In a shock move, John Riccitiello has returned to Electronic Arts as CEO – nearly three years after he quit his position as president and COO at the firm.

Riccitiello leaves his role as MD of Elevation Partners – the games-focused private equity firm he co-founded after leaving EA in April 2004. He also gives up his job as part-time CEO of VG Holding.

Riccitiello will now serve as EA’s CEO from April 2nd. Larry Probst will continue as executive chairman of the Board of Directors, but hands over his role as CEO.

“We're happy to welcome John back as EA's new CEO,” said Probst. “His skill and vision as an executive and his experience in our industry have earned him the respect of our employees and shareholders.”

Riccitiello added: “Leading EA has always been my dream job and I am truly honoured that Larry and the Board have given me this opportunity. This is an extremely well-run company driven by outstanding studio and publishing teams. They've also made strategic investments in new platforms and markets that will help extend EA's industry leadership in the years ahead.”

In a statement, Elevation described Riccitiello as "a hugely talented executive" who is "the perfect person to lead EA during this period of dramatic change in the industry”.

The statement concluded: "We look forward to continuing work with John and his team at EA."