Vince Zampella, co-creator of Call of Duty and legendary studio head, has passed away.
According to a report by NBC4, Vince and a passenger died while driving out of a tunnel in Los Angeles’ San Gabriel Mountains. The car collided with a concrete barrier, resulting in a fire. The passenger, ejected from the car during the crash, died at the hospital. Zampella died at the scene.
Zampella, known for a trailblazing career in the video game industry, famously co-founded the Call of Duty franchise. He’d later go on to found Respawn Entertainment, the studio behind beloved games such as Titanfall and Apex Legends. Recently, Zampella led the charge on Battlefield 6‘s development, a game that would go on to make waves in the FPS space this year.
Following news of his death, many industry professionals have come forward to eulogise Zampella. Stig Asmussen, former game director on the Star Wars Jedi series at Respawn, wrote their own farewell on LinkedIn.
Asmussen wrote: “Truly saddened today. Still processing, like a lot of us. Vince was my friend, and he made me a better person. ” Daniel Suarez, senior vice president at Respawn Entertainment, stated: “The industry has lost a Titan and a Legend. Rest in peace, Vince Zampella. I will forever be in awe of the games you helped create, thankful for the opportunity you gave me at Respawn, and for the friendship and laughs we shared over the years. Words cannot express how much you will be missed.”
Respawn Entertainment itself released a statement on the matter of Zampella’s death. Posting on social media, the company noted: “We’re heartbroken by the passing of our founder and dear friend Vince Zampella. Vince was a titan and legend of this industry, a visionary leader and a force who shaped teams and games like Call of Duty, Titanfall, Apex Legends, the Star Wars Jedi series and Battlefield for our community in ways that will be felt for generations.
“His impact reached far beyond any one game or studio. We will remember Vince for how he showed up every day, trusting his teams, encouraging bold ideas, and believing in Respawn & Battlefield. Most importantly, he championed what he believed was right for the people behind those studios and our players because it mattered. We will miss him greatly. Our hearts are with his family, friends, and all who love him.”
EA too stepped forward and paid homage to Zampella, in a statement provided to Kotaku. The company wrote: “This is an unimaginable loss, and our hearts are with Vince’s family, his loved ones, and all those touched by his work. Vince’s influence on the video game industry was profound and far-reaching. A friend, colleague, leader and visionary creator, his work helped shape modern interactive entertainment and inspired millions of players and developers around the world. His legacy will continue to shape how games are made and how players connect for generations to come.
