According to a story at C|Net News.com, Seamus Blackley, the co-creator of Microsoft's Xbox game console, has resigned to pursue other opportunities.

Well, at least they didn't say it was to spend more time with his family.

The story goes on to say that:

The news of Blackley's resignation comes just a few days after Microsoft said it would miss current sales target for the Xbox by 500,000 units or more, a shortfall it blamed on weak sales in Japan and Europe. Microsoft responded by cutting the European price of the Xbox by almost 40 percent.

James Bernard, Microsoft Xbox spokesman, denied the departure would have any effect on Microsoft's plans for the console.