Full Breakdown
Julian Gerighty Departs Ubisoft for EA's Battlefield Studios
1/16/2026, 11:46:41 PM
Departure Announcement and Context
Julian Gerighty, the executive producer of Ubisoft's *The Division* series, has officially left the company to join Electronic Arts' Battlefield Studios. This announcement comes just a week after Gerighty participated in the New Game+ Showcase, where he discussed the upcoming *The Division 3*, describing it as "shaping up to be a monster." Gerighty's departure marks a significant transition for both him and the franchises involved, as he has been a pivotal figure at Ubisoft for over 25 years.
Impact on *The Division* Franchise
Ubisoft has reassured fans that the development of *The Division 3* and related projects will continue unabated. The company confirmed that veteran creative directors Yannick Banchereau and Mathias Karlson will oversee the ongoing projects, including *The Division 2*, *The Division 2: Survivors*, and *The Division Resurgence*. In a statement, Ubisoft expressed that Gerighty's contributions will remain influential within the studio, stating, "While we’ll miss him, his mark will live on at Massive."
Gerighty's Career and Contributions
Gerighty joined Ubisoft in 1999 and rose through the ranks to become a key creative force behind *The Division* and its sequel. He was appointed executive producer of the entire franchise in 2023, a role that included overseeing the controversial cancellation of *The Division: Heartland*. His departure follows a recent announcement of layoffs at Ubisoft Massive, which could impact up to 55 positions, although there is no indication that these layoffs directly influenced his decision to leave.
Official Statements and Responses
In his farewell message, Gerighty stated, "It's time for me to hang up my go bag (keeping the watch) as I go on another grand adventure. The Division future burns bright, and I can't wait for you to discover what the teams have been working on." Ubisoft's statement emphasized continuity, assuring players that the teams who built *The Division* remain committed to its future.
Criticism and Opposition
While the transition appears amicable, some industry observers have raised concerns about the timing of Gerighty's departure, especially given the recent layoffs and restructuring at Ubisoft. Critics suggest that the ongoing changes within the company may reflect deeper issues in its management and direction.
What's Next for Gerighty and Battlefield
Gerighty's new role at Battlefield Studios has not been explicitly detailed, but his extensive experience with large-scale shooters positions him as a valuable asset for EA, especially following the recent passing of Battlefield franchise leader Vince Zampella. As EA seeks to revitalize the Battlefield series, Gerighty's leadership could play a crucial role in shaping its future direction.
Conclusion
Julian Gerighty's departure from Ubisoft to EA's Battlefield Studios represents a significant shift in the gaming landscape for both franchises. As *The Division 3* continues its development under established leadership, the gaming community will be keenly observing how Gerighty's influence will manifest in his new role at EA.
