Shocking Twist: Legendary Writer Bids Farewell to Rockstar Games After 16-Year Stint on Red Dead Redemption Franchise
Prominent writer behind Red Dead Redemption franchise bids farewell to Rockstar Games after an impressive 16-year tenure, leaving a significant void in the creative team
Highlights
After 16 years, Michael Unsworth, the Writing Director behind Red Dead Redemption, has left Rockstar Games, posing a challenge for the studio.
Rockstar Games has recently experienced the departure of another key creative figure, Michael Unsworth, which comes on the heels of co-founder Dan Houser's exit in 2020. Notably, Unsworth's departure comes at a crucial moment as Rockstar gears up to unveil GTA 6.
After 16 years with Rockstar Games, Michael Unsworth, the Writing Director behind the iconic Red Dead Redemption franchise, has decided to part ways with the company. Recently, the series has garnered attention for its releases on the PS4 and Nintendo Switch, which were met with criticism from the community regarding their pricing. With fans eagerly anticipating the future of the franchise, the departure of such a seasoned Red Dead Redemption veteran may present a challenge for the studio.
In 2020, co-founder Dan Houser also bid farewell to Rockstar Games, more than two decades after establishing the company alongside his brother Sam Houser. Following his departure, Dan embarked on new ventures, including launching a new enterprise and investing in the blockchain games studio Revolving Games. Interestingly, Dan was one of only three writers who contributed to the writing of both Red Dead Redemption games. With this recent announcement of another long-time creative force leaving, Rockstar faces yet another loss to its talented team.
Rucke, a user on GTAForums, recently discovered that Michael Unsworth has updated his LinkedIn profile to indicate his departure from Rockstar Games. Michael, who had been with the company for over 16 years, played a significant role in writing both Red Dead Redemption games. He was also involved in the creation of several other popular Rockstar titles, such as LA Noire, Max Payne 3, GTA 4, and GTA 5. Neither Rockstar Games nor Michael have released an official statement regarding his departure at this time.
It's worth noting that Red Dead Redemption is not the only franchise that has experienced the departure of high-profile individuals. In the same year as Dan Houser's exit, Lazlow Jones, a GTA writer, also left Rockstar Games after almost two decades with the company. Lazlow's notable contributions include writing dialogue for GTA characters and radio stations. He was also recognized for his recurring role as a radio host with the same name throughout the series.
Coincidentally, Michael's departure coincides with an intriguing moment for the studio, as Rockstar gears up to launch GTA 6 amidst speculations of a new game being developed. Although prominent exits from well-established gaming studios are not uncommon, the departure of Lazlow Jones, Dan Houser, and now Michael Unsworth may present challenges for the studio in the future. Regardless, it will be captivating to observe the studio's future trajectory.
