Uncharted 3 game director Justin Richmond leaves Naughty Dog for Riot Games

Uncharted 3 game director Justin Richmond has left Naughty Dog for League of Legends developer Riot Games.

Speaking with IGN, Richmond said he loves "the company and the people" at Naughty Dog despite his departure.

"I have in fact made the decision to leave Naughty Dog," Richmond said. "I love the company and the people and know that they will continue to create awesome games going forward.

"On a happier note, after careful consideration and exploration I have joined Riot Games. There is some really innovative stuff going on here that I can't wait to be a part of."

UPDATE: Responding to requests for comment, SCE America said Uncharted 4 will not suffer for the departure.

"SCEA can confirm Justin Richmond has left Naughty Dog to pursue other opportunities. The development timeline of Uncharted will not be impacted," a representative told Eurogamer.

Richmond also had a hand in Uncharted 2: Among Thieves, and he leaves the studio just a few weeks after the firm announced the departure of lead writer Amy Hennig.

Uncharted 4 was teased in November of 2013 and details are still scarce.