EA's CEO says Warhammer won't rival World of Warcraft

John Riccitiello has garnered a relatively positive reputation among gamers since ascending to the post of Electronic Arts CEO for his 'hands-off' policy when it comes to newly acquired studios. His new appreciation for individual studio culture endeared him to fearful fans after the BioWare purchase, and keeps Warhammer Online hopefuls in a positive frame of mind.

It's no surprise, then, to hear Riccitiello shooting straight on Warhammer's hopes against World of Warcraft. Says the CEO: "Warhammer Online [will be] a strong entry in the MMORPG space," Riccitiello said at the William Blair & Company's investor meeting Tuesday. "No, I don't think it's going to rival WoW, but no one would ever predict that. But it is a strong game that will ... get our returns for us. We're proud of it."