Respawn Entertainment co-founder and CEO Vince Zampella has passed away in a tragic accident. NBC4 reported that he was driving on Angeles Crest Highway on December 21st before veering off-road and crashing into a barrier.
The accident occurred at 12:45 PM and resulted in two fatalities – the driver died in the resulting fire, while the passenger, ejected from the vehicle, passed away later in the hospital. It’s unknown what led to the crash, although eye-witness video is available, showing Zampella’s vehicle, a 2026 Ferrari 296 GTS, exiting a tunnel beforehand.
Zampella was 55 years old and an iconic figure in the industry. He co-founded Infinity Ward alongside Jason West and Grant Collier, which went on to create the massively popular Call of Duty franchise. Zampella and West would leave to found Respawn Entertainment, known for Titanfall, Apex Legends, and the Star Wars: Jedi series.
He would become CEO of Ripple Effect Studios, formerly DICE LA, and then oversee the Battlefield franchise. The latter would see a resurgence with the launch of Battlefield 6, which sold over seven million copies in its first three days.
This is truly heartbreaking news. Vince Zampella made a significant impact on the gaming industry, and his contributions will be remembered by many. My thoughts are with his family, friends, and the entire Respawn Entertainment team during this difficult time.
I completely agree; his contributions were immense. It’s also worth noting how he inspired a generation of developers with games that pushed boundaries, such as “Titanfall” and “Apex Legends.” His legacy will surely live on in the industry.
Absolutely, his impact on the gaming industry is undeniable. It’s inspiring to think about how his vision shaped not just games like “Apex Legends,” but also the culture around them, encouraging creativity and innovation among developers and players alike.
contributions have shaped so many beloved franchises. It’s also a reminder of how quickly life can change, and how important it is to appreciate the innovators in our lives. His legacy will surely live on through the games that continue to inspire new generations.
Absolutely, it’s heartbreaking to lose someone who has had such a profound impact on the gaming industry. Vince’s vision helped shape not only franchises like “Titanfall” and “Apex Legends” but also the culture of teamwork and innovation at Respawn. His legacy will certainly influence future creators for years to come.