Joseph Staten is now working as the creative director for Netflix’s gaming division, according to a set of tweets that the game industry veteran shared on Twitter today. Staten is best known as being one of the driving forces and visionaries behind the Halo franchise, having written and/or directed a number of Halo projects that include Halo 3 and Halo: Reach, and, most recently, serving as the Head of Creative for Halo: Infinite at Microsoft’s 343 Industries. Staten confirmed this month that he was leaving Microsoft, and while he didn’t say where he was headed at the time, his Twitter bio can confirm that he’s building a “brand-new AAA multiplatform game and original IP” for Netflix Games.
From a Joseph Staten tweet:
In my work life, there’s nothing I love more than collaborating with others to build worlds filled with iconic characters, deep mysteries, and endless adventures.
So today, I’m thrilled to announce that I’ve joined @Netflix Games as Creative Director for a brand-new AAA multiplatform game and original IP. Let’s go!
From an IGN report:
“We’re grateful for Joseph’s contributions to the Halo franchise and Xbox as a whole,” the statement from a Microsoft spokesperson reads. “We wish him all the best in his new adventure.”
Staten himself took to Twitter to comment on IGN’s report, saying, “Hey folks, I am indeed leaving Microsoft. I’ll have more info to share soon, but for now, I’d just like to thank all my Xbox colleagues for all their understanding and support as I embark on a new adventure.”
Staten has long been one of the best-known names behind the Halo franchise, having been cinematic director on Combat Evolved, Halo 2, and Halo 3, and having served as lead writer on Destiny while with Bungie.
So today, I'm thrilled to announce that I've joined @Netflix Games as Creative Director for a brand-new AAA multiplatform game and original IP. Let's go! 2/2
— Joseph Staten (@joestaten) April 17, 2023