Peter Molyneux resigns from Microsoft and Lionhead

Legendary developer to create new studio 22 Cans.

News has emerged that Peter Molyneux has resigned from both Microsoft and Lionhead, the legendary developer announcing the news via Twitter with the following statement:

‘I have left the lovely amazing Microsoft and Lionhead. Now for something really amazing, scary and brave a new company called 22 Cans’

Speaking to GamesTM Molyneux recently said ‘Now is the time to be crazy, man. You’ve got to be crazy. The world is changing and it’s changing fast.’ Looks like he’s a man of his word.

Rumours of creative differences between Molyneux, who had been acting as Creative Head of Microsoft Studios Europe, and Microsoft are being suggested as possible reasons for the split. Nothing is yet known of the direction 22 Cans will take, though we assume you can expect a furthering of Molyneux’s favourite moral compass type gameplay.

He will continue to work on Lionhead’s Fable: The Journey on a consultant basis but will part company with both Microsoft and Lionhead permanently following the game’s completion.

Update

Here’s the official word from Microsoft:

‘Lionhead Studios Founder and pioneer game developer Peter Molyneaux has made the decision to leave Microsoft. While his decision was a difficult one, he felt the time was right to pursue a new independent venture.

‘As Co-Founder of Lionhead and an integral part of Microsoft Studios, Peter was the creative visionary behind the blockbuster Fable franchise and one of our most passionate and influential developers for the Xbox 360 platform. He has made an indelible mark on the games industry and we wish him all the best of luck in his future endeavours.

‘Lionhead Co-Founder Mark Webley will assume the role of studio manager, while Peter will remain a Creative Consultant on Fable: The Journey. The development of Fable: The Journey remains on track to be one of the year’s most anticipated Kinect for Xbox 360 titles.’