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. https://t.co/oMR0LXOzZb
— Joseph Staten (@joestaten) April 8, 2023
Xbox said of Staten’s exit to IGN-
“We’re grateful for Joseph’s contributions to the Halo franchise and Xbox as a whole.We wish him all the best in his new adventure.”
After helping create the first three Halo games at Bungie, Staten departed the company in 2014 to join Microsoft. In 2020, he joined 343 Industries to work on Halo Infinite after having worked as senior creative director for Xbox Publishing.
“Focused on supporting the campaign team’s existing, talented, creative leaders and ensuring they have everything they need to create an awesome Halo game.”
In January, Microsoft cut off almost 10,000 workers; 343 Industries was among the hardest hit. Staten had previously worked for Xbox Publishing before leaving to found 343 Industries.
When asked about the future of 343 Industries, studio head Pierre Hintze confirmed that Halo development would continue. Microsoft’s “critically crucial,” according to Phil Spencer, 343 Industries.
