Zampella, who co-founded Respawn Entertainment, was travelling in a Ferrari with another person when the vehicle veered off a Los Angeles highway, struck a concrete barrier, and caught fire on Sunday, according to the California Highway Patrol. Both occupants died.

Authorities said the passenger was ejected from the car while the driver remained trapped, but it is unclear who was driving.

Electronic Arts said Zampella’s death was an “unimaginable loss” and expressed condolences to his family and those affected by his work.

Zampella co-created Call of Duty in 2003 with Jason West and Grant Collier.

The franchise, partly inspired by World War II, has sold more than 500 million copies and has become one of the most successful video game series globally.

He was also behind major titles, including Medal of Honour, Titanfall, and Apex Legends.

After leaving Activision in 2010 following a dispute that was settled in 2012, Zampella continued his career at Electronic Arts, where he worked on Battlefield 6.

Tributes poured in from across the gaming industry.

Infinity Ward said Zampella would always hold a special place in its history, while industry figures described him as a visionary who prioritised player experience.