Bungie departs from Microsoft

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October 5th, 2007 posted by Andrew in Xbox 360

The rumor that has been plaguing the internet this week is true. Bungie, creator of the popular “Halo” series has left Microsoft to go on their own merry ways.

As quoted from the news on Bungie’s website:

KIRKLAND, Wash.  Oct. 5, 2007 Bungie and Microsoft Corp. today announced a plan for Bungie Studios, the developers of Microsoft’s “Halo” franchise, to become a privately held independent company, Bungie, LLC, in which Microsoft will hold a minority equity interest. As part of this transaction, Bungie and Microsoft have forged a deep and long-term development and publishing relationship focused on the continued success of the “Halo” franchise. It is also the intent of both parties to expand their partnership to include new IP created and owned by Bungie.

Which basically means now that Bungie is now their own independent company, and are free to create their own games as they please but Microsoft will remain to publish their games on Microsoft platforms.

Bungie’s “Halo 3,” released September 25th, has achieved $300 million in sales globally in its first week on the market. achieved $300 million in global sales in its first week. “Halo 3″ has been named the fastest-selling video game ever created as well as one of the most successful entertainment properties in history.