Gaming just lost a Titan as Vince Zampella, the co-creator of the Call of Duty franchise and co-founder of Infinity Ward who later went on to co-found Titanfall, Apex Legends, and Star Wars Jedi developer Respawn Entertainment and who’s also been the current head of EA’s Battlefield franchise since 2021, has died in a single-car accident on Sunday. The veteran developer was 55 years old and has left an incredible legacy in Gaming as he helped shape many of the biggest franchises in the first person shooter genre.
According to the California Highway Patrol, as reported by TMZ, Zampella was involved in a single-vehicle accident around 12:45pm Sunday. There were two other people in the vehicle at that time with both sadly passing away in the accident.
In an official statement on Monday, EA has called Zampella’s loss “unimaginable” and that his impact on the industry at large was “profound and far-reaching”.
“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.”
Infinity Ward, the studio co-founded by Zampella, has released this statement following his passing: “Rest in peace Vince. As one of the founders of Infinity Ward and Call of Duty, you will always have a special place in our history. Your legacy of creating iconic, lasting entertainment is immeasurable. Our deepest condolences to Vince’s family and loved ones upon this terrible tragedy.”
Zampella had made a generational impact in gaming and his untimely death has indeed left a permanent void in the industry which will be surely felt for years and years to come.
