Markus Persson, also known as Notch, is a Swedish video game designer and programmer best recognized as the creator of Minecraft. He founded Mojang, the studio behind the game's development, which quickly gained widespread popularity upon its release in 2011. Persson's innovative approach to game design, emphasizing creativity and player freedom, helped Minecraft become one of the best-selling games of all time. Recognizing the game's massive success, Microsoft acquired Mojang and Minecraft in 2014 for $2.5 billion. Persson left Mojang shortly after the sale, citing a desire to escape the pressures of managing such a large entity. Since then, he has remained somewhat of a controversial figure in the gaming community, often expressing his personal views on social media. Despite stepping away from the gaming industry, Persson's impact on game design persists, with Minecraft continuing to influence new games and genres. He has shifted his focus to other interests, although many fans still celebrate his work and contributions, which have reshaped the landscape of independent gaming and player engagement. Markus Persson, often called Notch, is a prominent Swedish game designer known primarily for creating Minecraft. His innovative vision and approach to gaming have made a lasting mark on the industry. After the overwhelming success of Minecraft and the eventual acquisition of Mojang by Microsoft, Persson stepped back from the spotlight. This decision was influenced by the immense pressure that accompanied managing a large company. Even though he has distanced himself from game development, Persson's legacy lives on through Minecraft and its ongoing impact on gaming culture, highlighting his role as a pioneering figure in independent gaming.