Patch Linden

I wasn’t expecting this announcement when I woke up this morning. Patch Linden, Senior VP of Product Operations and a familiar name in Second Life for nearly 20 years, is no longer with the company. Reading the brief blog post, it’s hard not to feel like this was a sudden and forced departure. No farewell, no send off, just an abrupt end. Even his name is already gone in world.

I wouldn’t say I was a fan of Patch or not a fan, but I do recognize his impact. He gave us Bellisseria, which is probably the only thing that has kept me engaged over the past seven years. More than that, he actually seemed enthusiastic about Second Life. He showed up, dressed for the occasion, and felt like someone who genuinely understood how to use the platform. Not every Linden or executive can say that.

Whether you liked him or didn’t, Patch was a big presence. It feels appropriate to take a moment to say goodbye and acknowledge his contributions to Second Life.

Looking ahead, I just hope whoever steps into this role listens to residents. Second Life is not exactly bringing in waves of new users, so keeping the current community engaged should be the priority. I want to keep enjoying my Lifetime Premium Plus membership, but I can’t help wondering how much the platform is changing and whether it will still feel like home.

SL23B is going to feel different this year without one of its most recognizable voices.