EA's chief creative director, Richard Hilleman, has left the U.S. publishing giant after 33 years according to a Polygon report and independently confirmed by Gamasutra.

Hilleman joined the company in the early '80s, and helped create the original Madden Football game for the Sega Genesis, reshaping the franchise into the one we recognize today.

During his long career, Hilleman went on to develop and produce a number of other successful EA Sports titles, including NHL Hockey, PGA Tour Golf, and Tiger Woods Golf. 

Before agreeing to take on the role of VP chief creative officer in 2008, Hilleman spent four years teaching development and production at EA's in-house university.

EA did not announce a replacement for the position or offer any more details regarding Hilleman's departure.

Update: An EA spokesperson has confirmed the company isn't planning on backfilling Hilleman's creative director position.

"Rich Hilleman is a pioneer – a creative mind whose work influenced many games at EA and beyond," said EA. 

"We are thankful to Rich for his contribution over more than 30 years with the company, and we look forward to seeing what he pursues next."