Halo Infinite art director Nicolas ‘Sparth’ Bouvier has departed 343 Industries after almost 14 years.
Breaking the news on social media, Bouvier said he intends to “pursue other opportunities outside Microsoft and 343 Industries,” but said he’s loved “every minute” working on the Halo franchise.
Sparth has worked as a concept artist in the video game industry since 1996 and is credited on major projects including Alone in the Dark 4, Cold Fear, Prince of Persia: Warrior Within, Assassin’s Creed, Rage, Halo 4, Halo 5: Guardians, and Halo Infinite.
The veteran artist is also the author behind the ‘Structura’ art book series and has created multiple art packs for follow artists that include tool presets, custom shapes, brushes, and more.
Bouvier isn’t the first notable name to depart 343 Industries and Microsoft in recent months.
In May this year, Halo Infinite design lead Jerry Hook left the studio after almost two decades and landed at NetEase, where he’s serving as the studio head and CEO of nascent triple-A studio Jar of Sparks.
Prior to that, Halo Infinite multiplayer lead Andrew Witts departed 343 after three years, explaining he wanted to take a break from development to “relax and recharge.”