Stepping down as CM and the future of the SR2 patch

[[V] IdolNinja]

I've been trying to come up with a good way to say this, but there really is not one. I'm stepping down as Volition's Community Developer.

The reason why is a simple one; the cancer that I fought so hard with last year was only a temporary victory. It has come back with a vengeance, and I only have a short time left here on this earth.

You are probably wondering what will happen with the Saints Row 2 patch project. While I will no longer be managing Community, I will continue to work on this for as long as I am able. Please understand that it is 100% my choice to spend my last days contributing to it. Both Volition and Deep Silver have been incredibly supportive and have always given me the opportunity to leave the project with a solemn vow to make sure it gets finished without me. We have also been planning for this eventual moment, and brought on additional programming help some time ago to make sure it happens. While I am hesitant to give any kind of timeline, I can say that there have been huge strides made. I am confident that it will meet everyone's high expectations and standards (including mine.)

Anyone that knows me, understands that I have the deepest love for both the people at Volition and our community. I hope I was able to shine a light on how we make games and who we are as both developers and people, and maybe make everyone's day just a little bit brighter in some small way. Oh, and one last thing... while I probably won't be here to see the launch, our new Saints Row game is absolutely going to blow the roof off. I am beyond proud to have been a part of bringing it to life.

[MAKEMEDEEP45]

I am saddened to hear about the cancer, we will always cherish you and all the work you put into bringing SR2 back to its former glory. Thank you for everything!

[Cheslea]

Thank you so so much for all your hard work, dedication, and love for this game. You will be so deeply missed - much love!

[borkiee]

Your Legacy will never be forgotten and I am sure Volition and the community will make sure you live on. Godspeed you magnificent bastard.

[DurradonXylles]

I don't know what else to say other than I'm sorry, Idol. Cancer is horrible, and I've lost a couple of people close to me to it. Thank you for all of the work you've done as part of [V], and I am certain that both the SR2 update and SR5 will go above and beyond our expectations. You've accomplished more than most who are fans of what they love, that is something to take pride in. Once again, thank you.

[shy]

thank you for all your hard work!!

[KestreL]

Sadden to hear this, thank you for what you've done

[Autumnyte]

Thank you for everything you did for this game and this community. I will always be grateful for the massive amounts of enjoyment your work brought to me and many others. Sending you all the best.

[Venom97]

Why do the good people always have to leave early? I'm terribly sorry for your situation and I hope you are able to make it, if not, thanks for being part of the team that shaped one of the most memorable open world games. We love you and Volition!

[Konran]

I'm truly sorry about your disease, but I want to thank you for all of your effort so far. You are a strong man. I can't wait to play both Saints Row 2 Fixed and Saints Row 5.

[uzis]

thank you idolninja.

[Agent47]

I'm really at a loss for words. Thank you so much for your dedication.
Sending you my best wishes and please know that the community really appreciates your contribution.
Thank you so much and godspeed.

[Sdaddy345]

Very sad news to hear regarding your health, but I admire your dedication and passion for this franchise. SR2 was my very first SR game and I played it when I was a kid. I wish more developers were as passionate as you. Your patch will not only continue the legacy of SR2 but you as a developer every time I play it. Your other mods such as the replay mod for SR3 is amazing too. Thank you from the bottom of my heart for making Saints Row what it is today.

[Matrixvingian]

Thank you for being there for the fandom, Idolninja. Keeping the fan viewpoint in mind while also helping us understand something of the business and complexity of making videogames was a delightful education. The Volition Streams were a more personalized GDC that allowed us insights into the history and talent at the developer.

Your passion and commitment has improved not just your favorite game SR2 but also our day to day. Mike Watson, IdolNinja and Mister Green will an indivisible rock concert in our hearts!

[geesi :)]

Thank you, Mike. Whenever we play Saints Row, we’ll think of you.

[Foxhack]

Thank you for everything you've done over the years. I've never played this game but I've heard enough good things about you to be sad about this happening. Thank you again.