Almost 10 years after their outfit was acquired by EA, the co-founders of UK-based Criterion Games, Alex Ward and Fiona Sperry have parted ways with the studio they founded in 2000, looking toward a fresh start as an independent developer.

Criterion is best known for their prowess in the arcade racing genre, with the popular Burnout series, and most recently Need for Speed: Hot Pursuit and Most Wanted, however recent movements suggested a move away from racing. In September it was revealed that 60 Criterion staff had migrated to Ghost Games UK, a new Guildford wing of EA's Sweeden-based studio and the new stewards of the Need for Speed franchise.

Following confirmation from EA of the departure, Alex Ward confirmed the pair's new intentions on Twitter "Just decided to start afresh and form a new games company with @FionaSperry" going on to say that he was "Really looking forward to it. Criterion was my life, but ready for a new challenge". Amidst well wishes, Fiona Sperry also commented on the move "Overwhelming support. Thank you. Huge step. So hard to leave Criterion behind. Has been my child for 14 years. But I am so excited...."

According to comments made to Polygon, Criterion veteran Matt Webster will now be leading developement in Guildford as the studio continues work on a new title known only as Project Zero.