Ahem.

I want to quit posting about Halo, I really do, but the news just keeps a comin'.

Today Bungie announced their departure from Microsoft Studios, and is once more an independent game studio. The split was amicable, and they plan to continue developing Xbox titles, including future Halo titles through MS Games. Congratulations, Bungie!

When co-founder Alex Seropian left the company to return to the indie scene a few years ago, I thought it was an admirable move. He fled board meetings and produced one of the most entertaining games on the original Xbox. Now he's working on what looks to be a nice little boutique party game that I'm sure will earn rave reviews.

Not that I've been critical of Bungie's work at MS; They've done amazing things. Halo is truly a masterpice, and it would not exist as it does without the backing of Gates & co. But that chapter is closed, and to move forward in a creative fashion would have been impossible with MS goons leering over shoulders, looking for another $300 Million-dollar game.

Now, if only they would abandon that creepy Washington warehouse and return to Chicago. So I can work for them. As a janitor, if I must.