God of War Ragnarok’s art director Rafael Grassetti announced on Friday that it is his last day at Santa Monica Studio. This marks the end of the veteran game developer’s decade-long career with Sony, though the seniorGod of War Ragnarokdeveloper hinted that he has some big plans for the near future.
God of War Ragnaroklaunched in November 2022to overwhelming praise from players and critics alike. This praise extended not only to its gameplay and storytelling but also its visual design. While Grassetti wasn’t the only artist on the team, he played a significant role in spearheading the franchise’s visual re-design. His nine-and-a-half years with Sony included serving as the principal artist for 2018’sGod of Warand art director onGod of War Ragnarok.
RELATED:God of War Ragnarok Player Discovers Incredible Freya Detail
Grassetti announced that he was leaving Sony in a series of tweets earlier today.God of War Ragnarok’s art directordescribed his departure as “bittersweet” and expressed his gratitude for the opportunities he had working with Sony, which he compared to a second home. Grassetti said he was particularly glad he had a chance to work on theGod of Warseries. In addition, he gave special thanks to co-workers Cory Barlog, Erica Willams, Yumi Yang, Rohde Scott, and the rest of the Santa Monica Studio team.
Prior to joining Sony, Grassetti’s career included character art for games includingCrackdown 2,Risen 2: Dark Waters,The Witcher 2,Assassins Creed 3,Assassin’s Creed Origins,Mass Effect 3and some of its DLCs, andDragon Age: Inquisition. He joined Sony after leaving BioWare in 2012, working as art supervisor onThe Order: 1886,Infamous: Second Son, andKillzone: Shadow Fallbefore joining Santa Monica Studio the following year.
Grassetti clarified that his departure from Santa Monica Studio was amicable, and he continues to have faith in the studio’s success. The formerGod of Wardeveloper also expressed a hope that he might have more opportunities to collaborate with Santa Monica Studio in the future. However, the veteran game artist did not say what’s next for his career, though he promised that he would make an announcement next week.
Grassetti didn’t give any hints as to where he is heading, but it must be something big to walk away fromSanta Monica Studio so soon after its major success withGod of War Ragnarok. Then again, nine years is a long time, so it may just be that Grassetti is looking for a change of pace. Hopefully, he finds just as much success in his new venture.
God of War Ragnarokis available on PS4 and PS5.
