One of the most influential writers in BioWare's stable is taking his leave of the studio after twelve years. This week, lead scribe Drew Karyphyshn told his blog readers that he'll be leaving the video game industry to pursue novels, screenplays, and “other projects”.
“For the past twelve years I’ve had the privilege to work at one of the best companies in the video game industry, side by side with the most talented and incredible group of people I’ve ever had the good fortune to know,” wrote Karpyshyn, indicating an amicable split. “I’ve enjoyed my time at BioWare immensely, but it’s time for me to move on.”
Karpyshyn has had a hand in creating many of the stories and characters for hit BioWare games including Mass Effect 2, Jade Empire, Star Wars: Knights of the Old Republic, Neverwinter Nights, and Baldur's Gate II. He also penned a series of novels tie-ins for some of BioWare's most popular franchises, and is working on book for Star Wars: The Old Republic.
It's typically the lead designers or studio heads that get to be the rock stars in the video game world, but seeing as BioWare's reputation rests on its storytelling and character development, this could be its equivalent of losing a lead singer. No doubt, BioWare will find a back-up, but this could have some effect on its trademark voice all the same.
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