Microsoft vet Joseph Staten is leaving the company.
The news was first reported by IGN and has since been confirmed by both the man himself and the Big M. Staten started his career at Bungie, working on Oni and Myth II. From there he moved to Microsoft when the company was acquired in 2000, going on to work on the Halo games – as well as transmedia projects like novels and films – until Halo 3: ODST.
In 2009, he moved to work on new IP Destiny at Bungie following its MBO, before leaving in 2013. The following year, he rejoined Microsoft as a senior creative director. In 2020, he was brought back to Halo maker 343 Industries as head of creative for Halo Infinite.
“We’re grateful for Joseph’s contributions to the Halo franchise and Xbox as a whole,” a Microsoft rep said. “We wish him all the best in his new adventure.”
In a post on Twitter after the news broke, Staten added: “Hey folks, I am indeed leaving Microsoft. I’ll have more info to share soon, but for now, I’d just like to thank all my Xbox colleagues for all their understanding and support as I embark on a new adventure.”
