Mass Effect and KOTOR project director Casey Hudson leaves BioWare

BioWare executive producer Casey Hudson has left the renowned studio after 16 years.

Hudson began his tenure at BioWare back in 1998 where he served as a technical artist on such games as MDK2 and Neverwinter Nights. He then moved up in the world and became the project director for the smash hit Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic. Following that, he fulfilled the same role in each entry of BioWare's other sci-fi trilogy, Mass Effect.

"I'll take a much needed break, get perspective on what I really want to do with the next phase of my life, and eventually, take on a new set of challenges," said Hudson in his resignation letter.

The former project director was clear that he's very satisfied with where the studio's biggest projects are going and that BioWare will be fine without him. "Though there's never an easy time to make a change like this, I believe this is the best time for it," he stated.

"The foundation of our new IP in Edmonton is complete, and the team is ready to move forward into pre-production on a title that I think will redefine interactive entertainment. Development for the next Mass Effect game is well underway, with stunning assets and playable builds that prove the team is ready to deliver the best Mass Effect experience to date. And the Dragon Age: Inquisition team is putting the final touches on a truly ambitious title with some of the most beautiful visuals I've seen in a game."

Hudson also noted that he was very proud of the company and its culture. "BioWare is as magical a place today as it was when I started. The projects we are working on are some of the most exciting and prestigious in the world. The talent in our teams is second to none. And the people here are some of my closest friends."

BioWare studio general manager, Aaryn Flynn added, "Casey's focus on production quality, digital acting technology, and emotionally engaging narrative has made a substantial impact on BioWare and the video game industry as a whole."

"We will be forever grateful for Casey's hard work, passion, and everything he has taught us over the years - a methodical dedication to quality, a spirit of teamwork and camaraderie, and putting fans above everything else. But most of all, Casey has challenged every one of us in the studio to be better tomorrow than we were today. It is in that spirit that as we finish Dragon Age: Inquisition, we will continue working on the next Mass Effect game and our new IP project, confident in our goals and progress."