Microsoft picks up Mattrick as advisor

Don Mattrick, who as a teenager founded Vancouver-based Distinctive Software, a sports-oriented game developer that in 1991 was acquired by Electronic Arts, is back in the news today. The Wall Street Journal today reported that the former EA exec, retired since 2005, has taken a consulting role with Microsoft's game and entertainment divisions. Mattrick will not become a Microsoft employee, nor will he relocate from his home base in Vancouver. In his new role as an "advisor," Mattrick will communicate directly with Robbie Bach, who leads Microsoft's entertainment and devices group, as well as Peter Moore, corporate vice president of the interactive entertainment business within the entertainment and devices division.