Shawn Layden is the former Chairman of PlayStation Worldwide Studios at Sony Interactive Entertainment (SIE), where he led global first-party content strategy and helped launch multiple generations of PlayStation consoles. Over his 32-year career at Sony, he served as CEO of SIE America, President of SIE Japan, and Vice President of International Software Development at SIE Europe. He also founded PlayStation Productions in Culver City to adapt iconic PlayStation game franchises for film and television.
Layden began his Sony journey in Tokyo as personal assistant to co-founder Akio Morita, before rising through leadership roles across regions. He now advises technology startups in game-adjacent fields and is a founding board member of the Girls Make Games Scholarship Fund. He holds a BA in American Studies from the University of Notre Dame and continues to advocate for inclusive and innovative futures in gaming.
At BRIDGE Summit, Shawn will share insights on building global entertainment ecosystems, the convergence of games and screen content, and what it takes to create enduring IP in a rapidly evolving industry.
With the sale of EA and Microsoft’s landmark Activision deal, the era of mega-publishers is consolidating fast. As digital distribution reshapes discovery, monetization, and player engagement, the traditional role of the publisher is being redefined. This session explores what comes next for studios, creators, and players when the gatekeepers of gaming shrink and the power shifts to platforms, ecosystems, and communities.
Founder & CEO, AI² Robotics
Tech & Gaming Executive and CEO, Future Dynamics
International Managing Director, Professional Fighters League
Partner, High Frequency Entertainment
Actor & CEO, Sassy Chap Games
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