Bonnie Ross, the head of everything Halo related at Microsoft, is to leave 343 Industries, as the developer prepares for a major overhaul.
It’s becoming increasingly normal for modern games to begin in disrepair and gradually improve their reputation over time with additional patches and content, but Halo Infinite has taken the opposite path.
The game was released to generally positive reviews in 2021, but its fanbase gradually dwindled due to criticisms of a lack of updates and too little content – including promised features like local co-op.
The resignation of studio chief Bonnie Ross after 15 years appears to have nothing to do with this, but Microsoft is using her departure as an opportunity to restructure the company.
Ross has been at Microsoft for 28 years and, while she had planned to leave this year anyhow, she has now left due to a ‘family medical concern.’
‘I am extremely proud of everyone at 343 Industries’ work on Halo Infinite, the Master Chief Collection, the Halo television series, and so much more.’ It’s been an honour to work with the team for the last 15 years and to be a part of a universe I adore,’ she said in a statement.
Microsoft has already revealed that Pierre Hintze, the chief of production at 343 Industries, will take over Ross’ duties immediately.
Perhaps more importantly, Microsoft has informed Windows Central that it will be increasing the number of leadership roles for the team, implying that the studio previously had too little oversight – a criticism levelled at other Microsoft studios such as The Initiative.
Microsoft management has been criticised of being too heavy handed in earlier years, and it has been alleged that they have now swung too far in the opposite direction, which might present substantial challenges with the integration of new acquisitions such as Bethesda and Activision Blizzard.
As a result, previous marketing chief Bryan Koski will become Halo’s general manager, while business, operations, and esports chief Elizabeth Van Wyck will take over business and operations.
After 343 confirmed that Infinite will debut missing numerous fan-favorite features, positive campaign mode evaluations couldn’t preserve the game’s image. According to the latest information, 343 has once again pushed out the campaign co-op and forge mode, among other features, to November. However, considering recent events, we wouldn’t be surprised if 343 delays the upcoming Infinite update for the nth time.
Returning to the subject of Ross, her departure leaves a void that 343 will have a difficult time filling. With Ross’ resignation, Infinite has already began draining what’s left of its limited player base, and things aren’t going to get any better.
If it’s any consolation, Microsoft is aware of the magnitude of Ross’ role at 343. Microsoft confirmed to Windows Central that three people will succeed Ross: Pierre Hintze (Studio Head), Bryan Koski (Franchise General Manager), and Elizabeth Van Wyck (Business Head). Hopefully, this three can lead Halo Infinite to a brighter future.
In the case of Halo, Microsoft and Paramount hit gold with the live-action adaption, which debuted earlier this year. Season 2 has already begun production.