Cory Barlog returns to Sony Santa Monica

The former creative director of God of War II, Cory Barlog, has returned to Sony Santa Monica.

Barlog left the studio in 2007 after working on the first two God of War games, and after his several year hiatus has announced his return to Santa Monica in a PlayStation Blog post.

I Directed and wrote [God of War II], then went on to write the original design/layout and story for GOW III before deciding to roam the earth like Caine from Kung-Fu,” said Barlog.

“I wrote the script for PSP God of War: Ghost of Sparta at the start of my journey and then headed off into the wild blue of creative, and employment, uncertainty. I wanted to go on a creative walkabout, of sorts; in order get the experience I knew I needed to become a master craftsman.”

In his time away, Barlog found himself working on a game concept on a yacht in Monte Carlo, collaborating with Mad Max creator George Miller, and even hanging out with George Lucas for a short time at Lucas Arts.

“So, after all the travels and great collaborations and wandering, did I become the master craftsman that I originally set out to become? Well, no, not yet,” writes Barlog.

“I learned that the ‘master’ part is a goal best left on the horizon, always appearing attainable, but just out of reach. That keeps you hungry and at the top of your game.”

While he wouldn’t reveal the project he’s working on back at SCEA Santa Monica, Barlog says it’s “freaking huge”, and the studio is busy assembling a team.

“We are searching the world high and low for the best of the BEST to come and be on the ground floor of this endeavor,” he said.

“So, hey, if you are a freaking rock star unafraid to roll your sleeves up and take risks, reading this thinking that your current digs are feeling…well…a bit small, a bit dull and in need of some excitement – you need to contact me at Sony Santa Monica.”