Table of Contents
The Division Faces a Leadership Shake-Up
Despite often facing criticism for the uneven quality of its releases, Ubisoft has consistently demonstrated its ability to sustain long-running live-service games. Long before newer extraction shooters began dominating the conversation, The Division series had already carved out its own space, particularly through its evolving PvP and Dark Zone experiences.
As the franchise continues to move forward with multiple active and upcoming projects, it is now contending with an unexpected development. One of the most influential creative figures behind The Division has officially stepped away, raising fresh questions about leadership continuity during a critical phase for the series.
Julian Gerighty Leaves Ubisoft
Julian Gerighty has announced his departure from Ubisoft, confirming that he is no longer with the company. Gerighty previously served as Creative Director on both The Division 2 and the original, before later taking on leadership responsibilities during the early development phase of the still unannounced The Division 3.
The announcement comes as a surprise, particularly given the relatively positive outlook surrounding the franchise’s future. Gerighty has long been viewed as a stabilising creative force, helping guide the series through major systemic changes and long term live service support.
His exit represents a notable loss of institutional knowledge at a time when Ubisoft is attempting to reinforce player confidence across its portfolio.
A Move to Battlefield Studios at EA
Gerighty has confirmed that he will be joining Electronic Arts, specifically moving to Battlefield Studios under DICE. While his exact role has not yet been detailed, the move places him directly within the development ecosystem of Battlefield.
The transition marks a significant shift, bringing experience from Ubisoft’s live service shooter model into one of EA’s most important franchises. For Battlefield, which is in the process of rebuilding trust with its player base, Gerighty’s background could prove strategically valuable.
Ubisoft Reaffirms Commitment to The Division
In response to the announcement, Ubisoft and Massive Entertainment has moved quickly to reassure players that Gerighty’s departure will not affect its long term commitment to its franchise. Ongoing and future projects, including The Division 2, The Division 2: Survivors, Resurgence, and the supposed sequel, are said to remain fully supported.
Veteran developers Yannick Banchereau and Mathias Karlson have been appointed as creative directors for 2 and 3, while Magnus Jansen will take over leadership of Survivors. Ubisoft has positioned these changes as part of a planned transition rather than a disruption.
Departure Comes Amid Wider Uncertainty at Massive Entertainment
Gerighty’s exit also follows recent reports of layoffs at Massive, the studio responsible for the franchise. Approximately 55 employees were reportedly affected as part of Ubisoft’s broader restructuring efforts.
While Ubisoft has not directly linked these layoffs to Gerighty’s departure, the timing adds to a sense of uncertainty around the studio’s immediate future. For players invested in The Division‘s long term roadmap, leadership stability will be closely watched as Ubisoft navigates both internal change and shifting player expectations.
