There is one less shepherd at BioWare these days.
Executive Producer Casey Hudson has left the venerable RPG creator BioWare, according to the developer's general manager Aaryn Flynn. Hudson had been at BioWare for almost 16 years, having started as a Technical Artist on Neverwinter Nights and on MDK2.
He was behind the development of the Mass Effect trilogy and the creation of the new IP that is being teased in a series of creepy videos.
Hudson stated in a letter to his colleagues at BioWare, "After what already feels like a lifetime of extraordinary experiences, I have decided to hit the reset button and move on from BioWare. I'll take a much needed break, get perspective on what I really want to do with the next phase of my life, and eventually, take on a new set of challenges."
As part of Hudson's letter to BioWare, he gave a run-down of the company's current games in development. "The foundation of our new IP in Edmonton is complete, and the team is ready to move forward into pre-production on a title that I think will redefine interactive entertainment. Development for the next Mass Effect game is well underway, with stunning assets and playable builds that prove the team is ready to deliver the best Mass Effect experience to date. And the Dragon Age: Inquisition team is putting the final touches on a truly ambitious title with some of the most beautiful visuals I've seen in a game."
This summary of BioWare's titles bare few surprises, except that it implies that the weird new IP is years away from release. Which seems pretty far off, considering the company is already releasing teasers. But we will learn more about this new game next week when it is unveiled at the Gamescom convention.
Hudson also stated in the letter a message for BioWare's fans, "Having led the development of four major titles, I'm profoundly appreciative of the role I've been able to play in creating these games. The very idea that so many of you have enjoyed spending time in the worlds we've created is the defining achievement of my career, and it's your support over the years that made it all possible.
Thank you. I know that I leave our projects in great hands, and I join you in looking forward to playing them."
Mass Effect is a trilogy of science fiction roleplaying games where players control Captain Shepherd, the leader of a starship and a ragtag crew that works to help humanity and various other alien races fight against a terrible threat that could destroy all life.
BioWare's GM Flynn stated, "As we say a fond farewell, I know I speak on behalf of the entire studio when I say that we will be forever grateful for Casey's hard work, passion, and everything he has taught us over the years -- a methodical dedication to quality, a spirit of teamwork and camaraderie, and putting fans above everything else. But most of all, Casey has challenged every one of us in the studio to be better tomorrow than we were today.
Thank you Casey. This is not an ending, but a new beginning. "
No word yet on what Hudson's next move in the game industry will be or if he is retiring from game development altogether.
