Halo Art Director Glenn Israel Departs Halo Studios After 17 Years with the Franchise
After an incredible 17-year journey working on one of gaming’s most iconic franchises, Glenn Israel has announced his departure from Halo Studios (formerly 343 Industries). Israel, who began his career with the series at Bungie in 2008, followed the Halo legacy to 343 Industries when it was founded and remained with the team through multiple generations of Halo development.
In a heartfelt post shared on his LinkedIn profile, Israel revealed that his time contributing to the Halo universe has officially come to an end.
“As of today and after seventeen long years, I am officially no longer contributing to the Halo universe,” Israel wrote. “There is little more I can say for the moment, though I intend to share this particular story in its entirety when it is absolutely safe to do so next year.”
He continued with a powerful message aimed at those working in the gaming industry, addressing ongoing challenges in an increasingly unstable development landscape:
“I know that the state of our industry seems dire but never forget that you are free to choose. No illusion of security nor promise of wealth or fame or power is worth trading away your health, your dignity, your ethics or values, and no one can force you to. Stay strong, take evidence when necessary, and find where you belong.”
While Israel did not disclose the exact reasons for his departure, his tone suggests it may not have been an entirely amicable exit. He stated that he plans to share more details sometime in 2026, once it is “safe” to do so, an intriguing remark that has already sparked speculation among fans and industry watchers.
The timing of his departure comes amid ongoing turbulence within Halo Studios, which has seen significant leadership turnover, internal restructuring, and waves of layoffs in recent years. The studio has also faced criticism from fans over controversial decisions such as the removal of couch co-op from Halo Infinite and the near-inclusion of microtransactions in The Master Chief Collection.
Despite these setbacks, Halo Studios is reportedly preparing new announcements for the Halo World Championships on October 24, where rumors suggest a potential remake of Halo: Combat Evolved could finally be unveiled.
As for Glenn Israel, his next chapter remains uncertain, but after nearly two decades shaping the visual identity of the Halo universe, his impact on the franchise will undoubtedly endure. Fans and industry peers alike will be watching closely when he eventually shares the full story behind his departure in 2026.
What are your thoughts on Glenn Israel’s exit from Halo Studios? Do you think his upcoming revelations will shed light on the internal challenges faced by the Halo team?
