As reported by several sources and detailed by Microsoft earlier today, the company is parting ways with approximately 10,000 positions. While it represents less than 5% of Microsoft’s total workforce, it is still a large number of employees, with positions impacted across all divisions.
While details are still surfacing, particularly as they relate to the Gaming division, a report from Bloomberg suggests that Joseph Staten is leaving 343 Industries. According to Jason Schreier, Staten is re-joining Xbox publishing and will once again be leaving the Halo IP behind.
NEW: Joe Staten, who joined 343 in 2020 to steer Halo Infinite toward the finish line, is leaving the studio to rejoin Xbox Publishing, Bloomberg has learned
— Jason Schreier (@jasonschreier) January 18, 2023
For those who may not be aware, Staten joined 343 Industries in 2020 to aid in streamlining Halo Infinite’s delivery. And he has been a key component in their progress and communication plans since then. Having worked on Halo during the Bungie era, he was also seen by many to be a good omen.
As always, context is important. With Pierre Hintze the studio head at 343i, we hope we receive a formal communication on any changes soon. We’ll have more on it develops but for now, we simply wish all those impacted the very best.