The gaming industry is in shock: Vince Zampella has died in a car accident. For many, the creator of Titanfall, the leader of projects such as Medal of Honor, Call of Duty, Star Wars: Jedi, and the revival of Battlefield, was a figure who shaped the market for decades.
Hundreds of condolences from developers, publishers, and former colleagues have appeared online and in the media. The general message is the same: Zampella was not only a visionary, but also a leader who knew how to unlock the potential of teams.
Jeff Keely's archival material – an interview with Zampella recorded 16 years ago – attracted special attention. Today, this conversation has taken on a new, emotional meaning.
Eric Hewitt, who worked directly with him, emphasized:
I know they say, "Don't hang out with your idols," but Vince was an exception. He did everything out of love for games, while remaining a good person who cared about his family of developers. He was one of us. The games he created are immortal, and the trends set by his teams are still felt today, but I will always remember him for moving Infinity Ward's contract employees to Respawn's full-time employees during the crisis at the company. No one has ever done that, and no one still does. His positive impact on the industry and the gaming industry as a whole is immeasurable. Rest in peace, king of shooters.
The industry has lost one of those rare leaders whose influence will be felt even years later.
