Merely three weeks after the console launch of The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited, Creative Director Paul Sage has quit the project, Zenimax Online Studios confirmed via a recent forum post.
It’s understood that Sage has left in order to join Battleborn developer Gearbox Software, and it’s no coincidence that the company just so happen to be hiring for Borderlands 3. For TESO, though, the future is in very safe hands according to Zenimax, who rubbished any reports that Sage had left on bad terms with an official statement.
“We can confirm that Paul left ZOS after the launch of ESOTU on console. He, along with rest of the team, are very happy with how the game is doing and we wish him the best in his future endeavours.
“ESOTU continues to be in great hands with Gamer Director, Matt Firor and new Creative Director, Rich Lambert, overseeing development. Previously, Rich oversaw all content in the game as Lead Content Designer and worked on The Elder Scrolls IV: Oblivion. We’re very excited to have him take on the role as Creative Director!”
What is interesting, however, is whether or not Sage’s deep understanding of the MMO genre will have any bearing on the direction Borderlands 3 will take. Could it be possible that Gearbox is looking to incorporate an element of online play in its beloved series? Time will tell.
Circling back to The Elder Scrolls Online and Zenimax’s online-centric take on the fantastical world of Tamriel has come on leaps and bounds since its debut on PC last year, even ditching the divisive subscription model during its transition to the console space.
The Elder Scrolls Online: Tamriel Unlimited is currently available for PlayStation 4 and Xbox One.