Splinter Cell, Far Cry 2 designer departs from Ubisoft

In an industry that's been rife with departures as of late, Ubisoft Montreal's loss of precisely one employee may not seem like that big of a deal.

But believe us when we say the publisher has some very big shoes to fill.

To put things in perspective, Clint Hocking's first step onto the big stage of game development was the original Splinter Cell. He was also instrumental in Far Cry 2's evolution from kitschy island shoot 'em up to Heart of Darkness-inspired jungle, er, shoot 'em up. He posted a farewell message on his blog, but in case you choke up during long goodbyes, here's the gist of it:

"I am too comfortable. I am too content. And I know where that can lead for me," he explained.

"Fortunately, for the first time in my life, I know the way forward. The way forward lies in my having the courage that I did not know I had a decade ago to bid farewell to those tragically comforting habits. I need to walk on hot coals and sleep on a bed of nails. I need to chew on broken glass. I need to drink paint. This post has gotten long enough and I am still afraid to come to the point, but what I really need more than anything is to write these words: I gave notice of my resignation to Ubisoft on Monday, April 26th, 2010."

It takes some serious guts to walk away from a cushy seat atop the Ubisoft empire. We wish Hocking the best of luck, and can't wait to see what he brings to the table next.

Also, FYI, we hear that Respawn Entertainment is hiring. Just sayin'.