Joseph Cross, the lead art director for Bungie's upcoming game Marathon, has left the studio. His departure comes just months before the game's scheduled release in March 2026, after he spent fourteen years with the company. Cross confirmed the news himself, stating he was proud of the visual world the team built and would enjoy the game as a fan.
Cross was the senior figure who, alongside game director Joe Ziegler, publicly addressed a recent controversy where Bungie used an artist's work without permission. That incident involving artist Antireal was resolved to the creator's satisfaction. This was not an isolated event, as the studio faced similar accreditation issues in prior years while Cross held senior art roles.
In a statement, Cross called his exit a personal choice and reiterated his pride in the Marathon project developed over the last six years. He praised the art team as the best in the business.
Cross was the senior figure who, alongside game director Joe Ziegler, publicly addressed a recent controversy where Bungie used an artist's work without permission. That incident involving artist Antireal was resolved to the creator's satisfaction. This was not an isolated event, as the studio faced similar accreditation issues in prior years while Cross held senior art roles.
In a statement, Cross called his exit a personal choice and reiterated his pride in the Marathon project developed over the last six years. He praised the art team as the best in the business.
