In a surprising announcement on Epic Game’s official community site, creative director Cliff Bleszinski will be leaving the North Carolina developers after 20 years with the company.
In his two decades with Epic, Bleszinski not only oversaw the development of the Unreal engine and the company’s flagship titles like Unreal and Gears of War, but he also became one of the most important personalities in games, not to mention the public face for Epic. The farewell letter on the community site offered no explanation as to why Bleszinski left but it seems to be an amicable departure.
While the farewell leaves a good deal to the imagination, it seems most likely that Bleszinski is looking for a break after being a huge part of the legendary Gears of War series. Most titles in Epic’s generally strong library owe at least some credit to Bleszinksi, so it’s a little bittersweet to see one of gaming’s more outspoken and creative personalities wandering into greener pastures.
Cliff Bleszinski hasn’t said whether his departure from games will be permanent or not, but I hope that, at the very least, he offers his commentary on the industry. I’m sure that he will enjoy his time away from gaming but his two decades of experience will be a welcome return if he ever decides its time to come back.
We wish you the best of luck Cliff with your future endeavours.
