Gabe Newell

Profession: Businessman

Biography: Gabe Newell, known affectionately as "Gaben" among gamers, co-founded Valve Corporation, a company that has created popular games such as the Half-Life series as well as the Steam digital distribution platform.

Newell attended Harvard University but left to join Microsoft in 1983 where he worked on the first three versions of Windows. Inspired by the game "Doom" (1993), Newell left Microsoft in 1996 to start Valve with Mike Harrington.

At Valve, Newell oversaw the development of "Half-Life" (1998), which went on to become a critically acclaimed game. In 2003, Valve launched Steam, which has since become the main platform for buying and playing computer games online.

Newell has been vocal about trends in the gaming industry, having criticized game consoles and promoted open-source development. His influence in gaming has been recognized with several awards, including induction into the Academy of Interactive Arts & Sciences Hall of Fame in 2013.

Outside of gaming, Newell owns Inkfish, a marine research organization. He also created a car racing team for charity.

In his personal life, Newell has faced several health challenges, receiving cornea transplants in 2006 and 2007. During the COVID-19 pandemic he spent time in New Zealand, where he even organized local events.

Born: November 3, 1962
Birthplace: Colorado, USA
Age: 61 years old

Generation: Baby Boomer
Chinese Zodiac: Tiger
Star Sign: Scorpio