Joseph Staten, best known for his work as a writer and creative director on the original Halo trilogy and part of Destiny, sparked controversy when he departed Bungie during development of their latest space epic. While no one knew for sure where his next move would take him, it appears as though he is now collaborating with 343 Industries and writing fiction for the Halo universe once more.
Taking to Halo Waypoint today, 343 Industries announced a series of full-length and digital-short novels set for release in 2015, with a focus on expanding the Halo narrative for Halo 5: Guardians‘ release late this year. That said, the author of the post was very specific in stating that the novels will release before and after Halo 5, so they have not subtly revealed a release date.
Halo: Shadow of Intent will be authored by Joseph Staten, which marks his return to the franchise since departing with Bungie to work on Destiny. Working as a design director until his departure, Staten left Bungie in September 2014, and teamed back up with Microsoft in January, where he will now work as a senior creative director.
While fans are speculating on Staten’s involvement in Halo 5: Guardians, Microsoft maintains that he is working as an ambassador on multiple Microsoft titles.
“Joseph is not working directly on the next Halo title. As a senior creative director, he will help create the world’s best entertainment on Xbox, as well as help shape our franchise strategy for some Microsoft Studios titles.”
As well as working on the games, Staten previously wrote Halo: Contact Harvest, which released at #3 on the New York Times bestseller list. His return to the written Halo universe comes alongside published works by Frank O’Connor, and a number of New York Times bestselling authors.
Here is a list of Halo novels out this year, courtesy of 343 Industries.
Halo: New Blood by New York Times bestselling author Matt Forbeck – a digital-first short novel released on March 2, 2015, ON SALE NOW!
Halo: Hunters in the Dark by New York Times bestselling author Peter David – a full-length novel on sale June 16, 2015
Halo: Saint’s Testimony by 343 Industries Franchise Development Director Frank O’Connor – a digital single on sale July 27, 2015
Halo: Last Light by New York Times bestselling author Troy Denning – a full-length novel on sale September 7, 2015
Halo: Shadow of Intent by New York Times bestselling author Joseph Staten – a digital-first novella on sale December 7, 2015!