Raymond Soto (Loric Games): 10 Key Things You Must Know
Overview
Raymond Soto is a prominent figure in the gaming and technology industries, notably recognized as the co-founder and Studio Art Director of Loric Games. His career stands out due to his dynamic blend of technical expertise and creative storytelling. With a resume that includes senior roles at Gannett and emerging tech leadership at USA TODAY NETWORK, Soto has left a mark on multiple sectors by harnessing advanced technologies like virtual and augmented reality. As you explore this article, you'll uncover key details about his journey, achievements, and contributions to the gaming world.
1. Early Life and Education
Raymond Soto's educational journey began at the Art Institute of Washington, where he earned a Bachelor's Degree in Fine Arts. His academic background laid the foundation for a career focused on visual artistry and innovative technology. Participating in the ASNE - Emerging Leaders Institute enriched his leadership capabilities, preparing him for substantial roles in creative and technological domains.
2. Career Beginnings
Before establishing his mark in gaming, Soto worked with the Department of Defense as an Analyst, gaining valuable experience in project management and technical coordination. This role set the stage for his subsequent positions at iconic companies such as Electronic Arts (EA), NCSOFT, and Dynamic Animation Systems, where he honed his skills in 3D artistry and art direction.
3. Role at Loric Games
Soto co-founded Loric Games, serving as the Studio Art Director and Lead Producer. Loric Games is known for crafting immersive storytelling experiences, particularly the airship survival RPG, Echoes of Elysium. Under Soto's direction, the company focuses on creating innovative, cooperative gameplay that seamlessly integrates narrative and technical advancements.
4. Innovations in Virtual and Augmented Reality
At Gannett | USA TODAY NETWORK, Soto was a Senior Director of Emerging Technologies, leading initiatives that incorporated VR and AR into narrative journalism. This role not only garnered industry recognition, including a Pulitzer Prize for Explanatory Reporting, but also demonstrated his ability to blend technology with compelling storytelling effectively.
5. Launch of Echoes of Elysium
Echoes of Elysium represents a significant milestone for Loric Games. Announced in early 2025, this open-world RPG tasks players with managing airships in a fractured world. The game showcases Soto's vision of integrating rich narratives with cooperative gameplay, allowing players to explore and survive against numerous challenges.
6. Impact on Gaming and Journalism
Soto’s dual expertise in gaming and journalism has promoted innovative cross-industry applications of technology. His leadership in developing interactive stories and AR frameworks has advanced digital storytelling in journalism, setting new standards for immersive audience engagement.
7. Awards and Recognitions
Soto’s career is decorated with numerous awards, emphasizing his contributions to digital media and gaming. His pioneering work in VR and AR for USA TODAY garnered widespread acclaim, including the Edward R Murrow and Malofiej awards for Innovation and Visual Storytelling.
8. Leadership and Vision
A key aspect of Soto’s leadership is his commitment to fostering a culture of innovation. At Loric Games, he emphasizes a player-centric approach, drawing from his experience with groundbreaking technology to steer the company towards redefining cooperative gaming.
9. Collaborations and Industry Influence
Soto's collaboration with prominent industry figures, such as Jeff Hickman, highlights his influential role in gaming. Loric’s recent $4 million funding round and strategic appointments aim to strengthen its position in the gaming industry, aligning with Soto’s vision for transformative gameplay experiences.
10. Future Prospects
Looking ahead, Soto aims to push the boundaries of what’s possible in interactive storytelling and cooperative gaming. With Loric Games, he is poised to lead an evolution in gaming that champions narrative depth and technological advancement, potentially setting new benchmarks for the industry.
Conclusion
Raymond Soto embodies the intersection of creativity and technology, significantly impacting both the gaming and journalism fields. His leadership at Loric Games and past innovations reflect a dedication to compelling storytelling, effectively combined with cutting-edge technology. As gaming continues to evolve, Soto's influence is likely to shape the future landscape, leaving a lasting legacy in how stories are told and experienced.