Games Done Quick founder Mike Uyama announced his departure in January 2023, but the ownership handoff did not happen immediately: GDQ completed the transfer in August 2024. Matt Merkle became majority owner, leading the organization with co-owners Jason Deng and Ashley Farkas.
What happened to Mike Uyama?
Uyama founded Games Done Quick in 2010 and ran it for 13 years. On January 5, 2023, he announced that he would leave the organization. His final event was Awesome Games Done Quick 2023, which was held online from January 8 to 15. Game Developer reported the announcement and event timeline on January 5, 2023.
At the time, Uyama said GDQ had grown from “a small volunteer effort” into a thriving organization. He said he planned to take a break and vacation before deciding what to do next. In August 2024, he said stepping down had given him time to rest, recover, and reflect, and that it was time for others to lead GDQ. The available statements do not establish what he did after leaving. Shacknews reproduced his 2024 statement on August 29.
Who took over Games Done Quick?
In the 2023 announcement, then-Director of Operations Matt Merkle was named as Uyama’s successor. Merkle became GDQ’s majority owner and managing director when the ownership transfer was completed in August 2024. Director of Technology Jason Deng and Business Director Ashley Farkas also became co-owners and joined the leadership team. PocketGamer.biz described Merkle as majority owner and managing director in a report dated September 3, 2024. Shacknews reported the completed transition and shared leadership on August 29, 2024.
What’s actually slowing this PC down?
Pick the symptom - the matching free tool is one click away.
#1 Best Overall
- Boldly displays the text 'Game day done right' in strong, energetic lettering that captures the passion, pride, and unstoppable excitement of true sports fan culture.
- Perfect for tailgates, stadium outings, watch parties, and sports bars -- ideal for football, basketball, baseball, and any game day occasion where fan spirit runs high.
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
When did Mike Uyama leave GDQ?
The transition took place in two stages. Uyama announced his departure on January 5, 2023, and finished his event appearances after online AGDQ 2023, held January 8–15. The ownership transfer was completed in the week of August 26, 2024; it was not finalized when the departure was first announced. Shacknews’ August 29 report covered the completed transfer.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.How large had GDQ become?
The scale of GDQ’s fundraising helps explain why the leadership change marked a significant transition for the organization. Game Developer reported on January 5, 2023 that the original 2010 Awesome Games Done Quick raised more than $10,000 for CARE, and that GDQ’s semiannual events had raised $41 million by the time of its report. Those figures were reported by Game Developer on January 5, 2023. PocketGamer.biz later reported that GDQ events had raised more than $51.7 million as of September 3, 2024. These are dated totals reported by the publications, not independently reconciled accounting figures. PocketGamer.biz reported the later total on September 3, 2024.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Show a strategic style for chessboard, scrabble, checkers, cards with this tabletop activity with quote design great for a chess tournament, educational sportsfest, legacy competition or while playing with geek friends, family at school and home.
- Best present idea for Birthday, Christmas, Victory, Appreciation, Special Holidays for him, her, teens, youth, boys, girls, brother, sister, son, daughter, mom, dad, grandpa, uncle, aunt, or cute for someone you know a nerd classmate, coach, or teacher.
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
Rank #4
- Funny design. This Funny It's a Beaut Day for Board Games shirt is perfect for board game lovers who want to celebrate the joy of game nights with humor. It highlights the fun of gathering friends for day of gaming!
- Wear this during game nights, at board game events, or present it as a fun for fellow gamers on birthdays or casual occasions. A great way to set a positive mood for your game night!
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
Rank #3
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
Rank #2
- Inspirational Motivational Inspiring
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
