I have to say, I'm very impressed with what you've done with my work zoo. I know I mysteriously disappeared, and unfortunately more work on this project is something that I am unable to continue with at this time, as I'm sure you've all figured out by now.
With that said, and perhaps this is both the worst (being perhaps my most iconic work) and best (being a successor of my first ever work for this game) thread for me to pop into. If there's anything I can say to the community surrounding our project, the hard work we've put in, and the hours we've all sacrificed, it is that I never would have stopped work without trusting that there were others who would be able to pick up what I'd done and complete it as well, if not better than, anything I have done. For years I put my heart and soul into this project, but unfortunately there were a number of real life complications that abruptly caused an end to my involvement. In fact, perhaps end is not an ideal description.
I'd like the dev team to know that I have, at every opportunity, followed your progress with the utmost of interest. Your work has been nothing short of incredible since my sudden disappearance, for which I apologize. I left you all without warning or explanation. That was unfair of me, you deserved an explanation. I still have no true explanation beyond the typical "real life got in the way". With that said, perhaps it is a back-handed compliment, but my abrupt disappearance was enabled by my utmost faith in all of you to continue on without me.
Those who are part of our IRC channel may have noted that I have continuously idled for years, and I'd like you all to know that, whenever possible, I read on the goings on of this project. Why? Because I still believe that this is, without exception, the only game to ever recreate the true Star Wars experience.
Will I be back? It's possible, work has slowed down and my life has become simpler lately. Do I expect that others will wait for me? Definitely not. Ultimately I'd like to say that, for the other members of the team who have carried on without me, I am supremely proud of all of you. Your work has shown that my faith in your abilities was warranted. Perhaps someday I will be back with a new model or texture, but for now, I feel that you all have surpassed many of my strengths, and for that I thank you for carrying on both my vision, and that of Chief, who has worked hard to keep everything together in turbulent times.
In short, Zoo, keep up the good work. If you need any assistance, whether it be references, my previous work, or simple advice, please contact me. I can't promise a speedy reply at this time, but I guarantee I will.
I'm honoured that you've all continued what I've done, and keep up the good work, I know I'm already proud of all of you, and my pride in you can only grow from here.
Cheers,
Brand.