Studio head on Halo 5: Guardians, Josh Holmes, will be leaving 343 Industries to pursue his dream to develop independent games.

　　Holmes and head of 343 Industries, Bonnie Ross, announced the news some hours ago on the official Halo Waypoint.

　　Holmes joined 343i back in 2009 as executive producer for Halo Waypoint, Halo: Reach and creative lead on Halo 4. He was appointed studio lead of internal development on Halo 5: Guardians.

　　“I want to take a moment to give a heartfelt thank you to my colleague and friend Josh Holmes, who was the Creative Director on Halo 4 and has been the Studio Head of FPS game development on Halo 5: Guardians. Josh has been an instrumental leader for the Halo franchise, helping to build 343 Industries, and delivering multiple AAA games, as well as the ground-breaking sustain efforts for Halo 5: Guardians. After seven years of service to 343 Industries and the Halo universe, Josh Holmes will be leaving to work on his dream to develop independent games. I wanted to thank him for everything he has done for us and the Halo franchise, and I wish him the best of luck on his next adventure”, Bonnie Ross wrote on the Halo Waypoint.

　　In a thank you message to the Halo community, Holmes shared his passion for the Halo franchise and thanked the fans for their support through the years.

　　Like many of you, I fell madly in love with Halo 15 years ago. The first time I played Halo it left an indelible mark. It transported me to a world filled with mystery and wonder, and introduced me to a hero I would come to know most intimately, the Master Chief. More than anything, it inspired me to want to make more games like it. Here at 343 Industries I was given the opportunity to do just that, and since that day I’ve dedicated my life to growing this studio and expanding the Halo universe. Along the way I’ve had the great fortune to work with some of the best talent in the industry and I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished together.

　　I have loved every moment here on Halo but I find myself drawn to new horizons. This month I’m leaving 343 Industries and excited for my next adventure to pursue independent game development. 

　　As I depart I am passing the torch to my good friend and long-time partner in crime, Chris Lee. As the head of production on Halo 4 and Halo 5: Guardians, Chris has played a key role in the studio since our inception. He is a tremendous leader and Halo is in great hands with him. 

　　There are many things I will miss as I leave 343: the daily ritual of playtest, long nights spent triaging bugs, Berger’s hair… Most of all I will miss making games for the very best community of fans in the world: you.

　　<3 Josh

　　We wish Holmes the best in pursuing his dream as independent developer.