Joseph Staten Reportedly Leaving Microsoft

Months ago when Microsoft announced they were laying off thousands of employees. One of the companies under the Microsoft umbrella that were affected was 343 Industries. During this round of layoffs, however, Joseph Staten departed the company to return to Xbox Game Studios Publishing. This was definitely a string of bad news for Microsoft and 343 Industries alike. But it has not stopped there. Considering it has just been reported by IGN that Joseph Staten has departed Microsoft altogether.

According to the report from IGN, this is what the spokesperson told them:

“We’re grateful for Joseph’s contributions to the Halo franchise and Xbox as a whole,” the statement from a Microsoft spokesperson reads. “We wish him all the best in his new adventure.” -IGN

Joseph Staten had a huge roll at Microsoft following his departure from Bungie nearly a decade ago. He voluntarily took on a creative lead role in 2020 at 343 Industries. Following the subpar gameplay shown for Halo Infinite during the Xbox Games Showcase that year. While he did course correct Halo Infinite and ensured it launched in 2021. The game was still lacking in iconic features that became mainstays in the Halo franchise.

Joseph Staten himself had a pivotal role to play in creating the universe in Halo. It is a shame he was never given all the time that was necessary for them to honor that legacy.