In recent weeks we’ve seen several layoffs and studio-heads parting ways. News that Naughty Dog veteran Amy Hennig leaving isn’t shocking. The way she was reportedly “forced out” of her role at the famed studio, is.
Over at IGN, Mitch Dyer and Greg Miller reported that “numerous trusted sources close to Naughty Dog” gave them exclusive information regarding the departure of 10 year creative director Amy Hennig. The article states “sources claim Hennig was ‘forced out’ by The Last of Us’ Neil Druckmann and Bruce Straley,” and so did just about every major publication.
Well, today on Naughty Dogs’ official site, Co-Presidents Evan Wells and Christophe Balestra address the “report,” and declare it false. They explain
“Bruce Straley and Neil Druckmann were NOT involved in what transpired… As co-presidents of Naughty Dog, we are responsible for all studio affairs.”
The intent of the co-presidents were to clear the names of both Straley and Druckmann. The post ends with a mic drop:
“There is nothing left to be said on this subject. Now we’re going back to what we should be focused on – making games.”
