Irrational Games’ Ken Levine addresses recent BioShock Infinite departures

Earlier this week fears about the state of BioShock Infinite arose when it was made known that two "key members" of the game's development team left Irrational Games.

Tim Gerritsen, director of product development, and Nate Wells, art director, both announced their departure from the studio earlier this week leading to speculation that BioShock Infinite, which was recently delayed until February 2013, was in a world of trouble.

Speaking to Kotaku, Irrational Games creative director Ken Levine talked about the recent departures and attempted to ease concerns about Infinite's progress.

"In a company of 200 people you're going to have turnover," Levine said. "We never like to see a guy like Nate leave because he's been here for a long time but it's been 13 years and I think sometimes people want to spread their wings. I'm not going to stop people."

"We love Nate and I think we all remain friends. After 13 years he sort of finished his work on BioShock Infinite, as you will be able to tell when you see the game again," he reassured fans. "I think Nate's moving on to something else."

"As far as the team itself, the lead artist, the art director, the creative director, the lead effects artist, the senior sound guy, the lead programmer and the lead AI programmer from BioShock 1 are all on BioShock Infinite," Levine added. "I don't think there's a single senior BioShock team member that isn't here, which I think is amazing and a testament to their commitment to the studio. And there are a ton of amazing people who weren't on BioShock 1 that are on BioShock Infinite."

BioShock Infinite had an impressive showing at E3 2011, but since then we've seen or heard little to nothing about the highly anticipated title. After its most recent delay, Irrational Games decided to hold off on showing it at some of the industry's biggest gaming events like E3 and Gamescom. That has only added to fan worries that BioShock Infinite may not live up to expectations.

Levine doesn't seem too concerned with the naysayers.

"When you are trying to innovate the path is not always clear and these things take time," Levine concluded. "But I guarantee this: The next time we show you guys the game the judge will be you, not me."

Levine isn't the only one high on BioShock Infinite. Rod Fergusson, the former Gears of War producer who just joined Irrational Games, has already boasted about the game.

"Yes I've played Infinite and it's amazing!" he said on Twitter. "Can't wait for you guys to get your hands on it."

[Joystiq]