Big Download has word that Stardock has hired Jon Shafer, who recently parted ways with Firaxis where he was lead designer on Civilization V. They report on a conversation they had with him today: "He told us that he departed Firaxis Games on good terms and while he got a few offers from other studios he told us that he went to Stardock for a number of reasons. One is that he has been an admirer of Stardock's games for some time as a fan. Another is that he wanted to work with a company that that the freedom to make the kinds of games he wanted to make. Shafer told us he could [not] give out any info on what his stand alone project will be for the company as Stardock is still concentrating its efforts on updating Elemental, including the release of at least two expansion packs." Stardock also announces the addition of Dave Stern (Baba Booey!), saying the fantasy and science fiction author will "oversee creative storytelling and lore implementation in all future projects, including the recently launched Elemental: War of Magic."