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Halo Studios logo with character illustration and abstract design showing art director departure
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Halo art director departs studio after 17 years, hints at discontent

Halo art director departs studio after 17 years

Glenn Israel's exit follows 17 years on the Halo franchise, hinting at internal discontent.

  • Glenn Israel leaves Halo Studios
  • Worked on Halo games since 2008
  • Social media post suggests discontent
  • Most of art team has departed
  • Microsoft has been contacted for comment
  • Next Halo projects to be revealed soon
  • Halo Infinite's multiplayer numbers declining

Glenn Israel, a veteran art director who contributed to the Halo franchise since 2008, recently left Halo Studios. He worked on titles including Halo 3: ODST and Halo Infinite across both Bungie and 343 Industries (now Halo Studios).[1][2]

Departure Announcement and Industry Concerns

Israel announced his departure on LinkedIn with an ambiguous message suggesting discontent within the studio. He stated he plans to share more information next year when “it is absolutely safe to do so.” He emphasized the importance of not sacrificing health, dignity, ethics, or values for job security or fame in the gaming industry, urging colleagues to “take evidence when necessary” and find where they belong.[3][4][1]

High Turnover and Leadership Issues

Significant staff turnover has been reported at Halo Studios. Nine of the ten developers credited for Halo Infinite’s art team have left, alongside the recent departure of the studio’s chief of staff, Melissa Boone. Moreover, sources and insiders suggest ongoing leadership problems within the studio, creating an atmosphere of tension and low morale.[5][6][7][1]

Microsoft Layoffs and Franchise Challenges

Halo Studios was affected by Microsoft’s company-wide layoffs earlier in 2025, with at least five employees cut from the studio. These layoffs contributed to growing uncertainty, especially since Halo Studios is managing multiple projects including the next mainline Halo installment. The last Halo game, Halo Infinite (2021), has faced a decline in multiplayer player counts and content updates, intensifying concerns over the franchise’s future.[8][9][10]

Upcoming Events and Future Outlook

Despite these challenges, Halo Studios plans to reveal new projects at the Halo World Championships scheduled for October 24-26, 2025. Fans and industry watchers await announcements that could clarify the franchise’s direction amid its current turmoil.[9][1]

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Editorial Timeline

Revisions
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Initial publication.

Correction Record

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  1. - Simplified language for easier comprehension
  2. - Added subheadings for organized structure
  3. - Shortened paragraphs for concise reading
  4. - Highlighted key personnel departures and team turnover
  5. - Included Microsoft's 2025 layoffs impact on studio
  6. - Emphasized Glenn Israel’s ethical concerns
  7. - Noted criticism and tension within Halo Studios
  8. - Mentioned declining player numbers for Halo Infinite
  9. - Referenced upcoming Halo World Championships event
  10. - Used direct quotes and sourced information from multiple reports

FAQ

What did Israel imply about his departure?

He hinted at discontent within the studio.

Who else has left Halo Studios recently?

Almost all of the art team has departed.

What was the last Halo game released?

The last game was Halo Infinite, released in 2021.