If you've enjoyed some of BioWare's classic games over the years like Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic or Dragon Age, you have writer David Gaider partially to thank. The long-time member of BioWare's team has announced via Twitter that he is leaving the studio after 17 years.
Gaider has been responsible for crafting more than a few beloved characters in his time with BioWare, including the homicidal droid HK-47 from Knights of the Old Republic. The character broke from the mold of cheerful, colorful Star Wars droids with his hateful personality and complete disregard for human life. This, of course, made HK-47 a must have in any party, and now has become almost something of a cliche.
Some news: I must sadly announce that, after 17 years, today is my last day at BioWare. I'll miss my team, and wish everyone here the best.
— David Gaider (@davidgaider) January 22, 2016
But it wasn't just HK-47 Gaider was responsible for. Most recently he created Dorian and Cassandra in Dragon Age: Inquisition, with Dorian being the first fully gay character to be featured in a BioWare game. Gaider is also responsible for writing the comic Dragon Age: The Silent Grove for Dark Horse and various Dragon Age novels.
As for what's next for Gaider? He isn't saying quite yet.
"It was indeed my decision, one not made easily since BioWare's been very good to me, and the parting is amicable," Gaider tells Polygon in an email. "It's simply time to move onto a new challenge.... As to where I'm headed next, that announcement will come in due time - today's about saying goodbye and packing up."
Whatever it is, fans will no doubt look forward to reading and experiencing more of his work.
