Borderlands Game Design Director Leaves Gearbox

Borderlands game design director Matthew Armstrong announced on his Twitter account that he would be leaving Gearbox to pursue new creative avenues. This departure follows that of Anthony Burch, who had writing credits on both Borderlands 2 and Borderlands: The Pre-Sequel, and the announcement that Gearbox is currently hiring for a new Borderlands title. In Armstrong’s words:

Things changed.
No longer working at @GearboxSoftware. I will always love Gearbox, but it’s adventure time.

…

Leaving Gearbox was less quiet than expected. I appreciate all the good wishes. It’s been like Stuart Smalley following me around all day.

Speaking with GameInformer, Armstrong clarified that the only reason he is leaving Gearbox is because he wanted to do something new, and that there is no bad blood involved:

“Pre-Sequel, Claptastic Voyage, and Handsome collection all shipped. In a rare moment, I was temporarily non-vital. I could leave without damaging Borderland or Gearbox too much if I did it at this moment, so now was the time. I think Gearbox will do great in the future, and I think Borderlands will stay strong and awesome. I’ve been thinking about it for a while. I’m not quitting out of anger or getting fired. It’s just time for new adventures. I’m an inventor. I’m ready to make something new. Not just new to me, but new to everyone.”