'Uncharted 4' Release Delayed? Game Director Bids Farewell to Naughty Dog

Justin Richmond, the game director for "Uncharted 4," has left its developer, Naughty Dog. Yep, right in the middle of development of the much-anticipated game slated to launch on Sony's PlayStation 4. It wasn't immediately clear how Richmond's departure will affect the release of the title.

"I have in fact made the decision to leave Naughty Dog," Richmond told IGN on Thursday. "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."

Both companies are based in Santa Monica, Calif. Riot Games is the developer behind "League of Legends," which allows players to assume the role of a summoner and choose from one of more than 40 champions, each with special abilities and powers.

Richmond had been with Naughty Dog since 2008. His departure comes in the wake of "Uncharted" series creative director Amy Henning, who left Naughty Dog earlier this month after 10 years with the developer. The company hasn't provided a reason for her departure, but several sources told IGN that she was "forced out."

Richmond oversaw “Uncharted 2: Among Thieves,” which was released in 2009. He also served as game director for “Uncharted 3: Drake’s Deception,” which was released in 2011. Both Richmond and Henning were said to be working on "Uncharted 4," which was announced in November and slated for the PS4. The developer hasn't yet disclosed a release date for the title.

You can view the teaser trailer for "Uncharted 4" on PlayStation’s YouTube channel. The trailer features a male voiceover from an unknown character and shows a map moving from southern Africa to Madagascar.