'Dragon Age' creative director announces departure from developer Bioware

"Dragon Age" creative director Mike Laidlaw announces his departure from Bioware. Facebook/ dragonage

Veteran writer, designer, and creative director, Mike Laidlaw, announced that he is parting ways with game developer Bioware after more than a decade with them.

Laidlaw posted a statement on Twitter announcing his departure. He also conveyed his appreciation for his co-workers and the many fans of the games he helped create.

"It's with a mix of emotions that I'm announcing my time with BioWare has ended," he said in his post. "After 14 years and a chance to work on 'Jade Empire,' 'Mass Effect' and all things 'Dragon Age' it's time for me to move on."

Laidlaw said that he has been lucky to work together with the "most talented and hardworking people in the industry." He also added that it was an honor to have been part of the "Dragon Age" team. "I have every confidence that the world we've created together is in good hands and I'm excited for the road ahead," he added.

The game designer did not provide any reason for leaving the company, nor did he specify what his future plans are professionally. He only shared that he plans to reconnect "with all the amazing games and worlds that my peers have created."

Laidlaw is just the latest high-profile name to depart from Bioware in recent years. Aaryn Flynn, the director of "Anthem," left the company earlier this year after 17 years with the studio. Another name is Chris Schlerf, a writer who left Bioware last year to work for rival developer Bungie. David Gaider, who worked with Laidlaw as the lead writer in "Dragon Age" also left the company last year.

Bioware has not made any announcement regarding who will be replacing Laidlaw, and how his departure will impact the future plans for the "Dragon Age" franchise.

The company has reportedly been working on a fourth Dragon Age game, following "Dragon Age 2" from 2011, 2009's "Dragon Age: Origins," and "Dragon Age: Inquisition" released in 2014.

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