Matthew Zanazzo

Co-Founder

Gilbert, Arizona, United States19 yrs 8 mos experience

Highly Stable

Key Highlights

Led projects with over 750 million plays.
Award-winning game developer recognized in multiple campaigns.
Keynote speaker on the future of gaming.

Stackforce AI infers this person is a Gaming Industry Leader with expertise in interactive experiences and brand collaborations.

Contact

Skills

Core Skills

Project ManagementBrand AwarenessGaming IndustrySocial Media MarketingAdvertisingProcess Optimization

Other Skills

ScriptwritingCreative CodingProduct DevelopmentDigital ArtSoftware DesignProject PlanningProgrammingCorporate BrandingGamingGraphic DesignVisual ArtsIntegrated MarketingSocial Media AdvertisingProduct DesignVideo Editing

About

I am an accomplished entrepreneur and award-winning game developer with a proven track record of creating impactful and innovative gaming experiences in the metaverse. As the founder of Catalyst Studios, one of the leading Fortnite Creative studios, I spearheaded collaborations with global brands like Epic Games, Fortnite, Puma, Neymar Jr., Twitch, and Geoff Keighley, driving over 750 million plays across all activations—500 million of which I achieved independently before joining Gamefam. After Catalyst Studios was acquired by Gamefam, I served as VP, Head of Fortnite, where I led groundbreaking projects, including collaborations with LEGO, Disney, Pixar, and Samsung. These projects, alongside award-winning campaigns like Talk to Me and Deadpines, earned recognition such as the Cynopsis Tempest Award, Shorty Awards, and Digiday Media Award for their innovation and creativity. I am also a keynote speaker, having presented at Unreal Fest on the future of gaming and interactive entertainment, and an active contributor to the gaming community through successful social media channels and thought leadership. As I transition into the next phase of my career, I am focused on exploring new opportunities in game development, creative storytelling, and brand partnerships. I remain passionate about pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in gaming, creating meaningful experiences, and connecting with like-minded innovators. Past Collaborations: Epic Games, Fortnite Competitive, LEGO, Disney, Pixar, Samsung, Puma, Neymar Jr., Shure, Twitch, Geoff Keighley & more.

Experience

19 yrs 8 mos

Total Experience

6 yrs 7 mos

Average Tenure

Current Experience

Gamefam

VP, Head of Fortnite

Oct 2022 – Jan 2025 · 2 yrs 3 mos · Remote

As VP Head of Fortnite at Gamefam, I led the development and execution of groundbreaking projects within Fortnite Creative, achieving both creative and commercial success. My role encompassed managing cross-functional teams, fostering high-profile brand collaborations, and driving innovation in interactive gaming experiences.
Key Responsibilities:
Spearheaded the development of top-performing Fortnite Creative projects, including Deadpines and Legends Landing, featured prominently on Fortnite’s front page.
Managed brand integrations with global leaders like Disney, Pixar, LEGO, Samsung, and Epic Games, creating award-winning campaigns that engaged millions of players.
Oversaw project planning, execution, and optimization, focusing on retention, playtime, and player acquisition metrics.
Delivered a keynote speech at Unreal Fest, sharing insights on creativity and the future of the metaverse.
Transitioned Fortnite projects to UEFN, setting new benchmarks for creative excellence in the platform’s evolving ecosystem.
Built and managed a cohesive, high-performing team while navigating challenges and driving collaboration across internal and external stakeholders.
Major Achievements:
Contributed to projects with over 700 million total plays, including 500 million independently before joining Gamefam.
Developed the Talk to Me integration, recognized with multiple industry awards, including the Cynopsis Tempest and Digiday Media Awards.
Created the Twitch Rivals Streamer Bowl map, streamed to millions and earning two Esports Tempest Awards.
Established Deadpines as a Top 5 Fortnite game, with an active and engaged player community.
Transitioned Obby But You're on A Bike from Roblox to UEFN, showcasing cross-platform innovation. (#1 Driving & Obby)
This role allowed me to combine my passion for gaming with a commitment to delivering world-class experiences, furthering my expertise in creative leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement.

Project ManagementBrand AwarenessGaming IndustrySocial Media MarketingCreative CodingProduct Development

Catalyst studios

Owner

May 2021 – Oct 2022 · 1 yr 5 mos · United States

AdvertisingSoftware Design

Epic games

Fortnite Creative Developer

Aug 2019 – Jan 2023 · 3 yrs 5 mos

I have had the privilege of working on personal and special projects within the Fortnite ecosystem, where my team and I have created unique experiences that have brought in over 500 million plays. Our work includes notable contributions to FNCS All-Star Maps, Legends Landing, and other special projects for Epic Games, where we've helped shape engaging content for Fortnite Creative.

Social Media MarketingDigital Art