Albert Penello, a long-serving veteran of Xbox, has died

Albert Penello, a former key figure in the Xbox world, has died at the age of 53.

This announcement was made via social media by Mike Ybarra, who once worked with Penello at Microsoft. Ybarra shared that Penello succumbed to cancer, passing on December 31st. He leaves behind his wife, Dara, and daughter, Lily.

Penello began his journey in the gaming industry at Electronic Arts as a product marketing manager from 1994 until 2000, contributing to franchises like Need for Speed, Xena, and James Bond. He joined Microsoft in October 2000, significantly contributing to the launch of the original Xbox, Xbox 360, Xbox One, Xbox One S, and Kinect during his nearly 18-year tenure.

In 2018, Penello transitioned to Amazon, where he worked on the Luna gaming platform. Nearly six and a half years later, he became the principal technical product marketing manager within Amazon Web Services' Automotive division.

Mike Ybarra expressed his sorrow, stating, "I found out today that Albert Penello passed away from cancer. Incredibly sad to hear this. Albert was a long time Xbox employee and gaming fan. I spoke to Albert about a month ago, checking in to see how he was. His spirits were high, his attitude was remarkable given the situation. I will remember Albert as a kind person, sharing, and having an incredible passion for the hobby we all love... gaming. His energy and commitment were second to none. His impact on Xbox was noteworthy. Always debating for the right answer and striving to keep players first. I pray for his wife and 12-year-old daughter during this difficult time. RIP Albert - and thanks for everything you did for your family, friends, and gaming."

Larry Hryb, a former Xbox veteran and current Unity community director, also shared his feelings: "Devastated by the loss of my close friend, Albert Penello – Albert was a pillar of gaming at Microsoft and Amazon, a brilliant, trusted voice in our industry, a loyal friend, and most importantly a husband and father who was profoundly loved by his wife, Dara and daughter, Lily.

"My heart is with his family. When I visited with Albert last week, he was in good spirits. He said how grateful he was to have worked in this industry with so many passionate fans."