343i was established in Kirkland, Washington in late 2007 by Microsoft as Bungie Inc.'s employees bought ownership of Bungie back from Microsoft. Because Microsoft retained ownership of the rights to the Halo Universe, 343i was created by Microsoft to oversee the development of future Halo titles, books, comic books, and other media. In 2008, former Bungie employee Frank O'Connor (Frankie) was named to head up 343i, leaving Bungie and taking the title of "Franchise Director" for 343i, overseeing all projects. A few other former Bungie employees joined 343i as well.