Julian Gerighty, the creative director behind The Division franchise, has left Ubisoft’s Massive Entertainment to join Electronic Arts, just one week after publicly discussing progress on The Division 3. The timing has drawn attention across the industry, especially as Ubisoft continues to reshape its internal structure and long-term project plans.
Gerighty’s departure does not mark the end of The Division series, but it does signal a notable shift during a critical phase of development.
A Sudden Exit After a Public Endorsement
Only days before his departure, Gerighty appeared in a digital showcase where he spoke enthusiastically about The Division 3, describing the project as ambitious and deeply impactful. Ubisoft had confirmed the game’s development earlier, but his comments offered rare reassurance to players waiting for concrete updates.
Shortly afterward, Ubisoft confirmed that Gerighty had joined EA’s Battlefield Studios. The company acknowledged his contribution while emphasizing continuity for the franchise. Ubisoft stated that the teams responsible for building The Division remain intact and committed to its future.
What This Means for The Division Franchise
Ubisoft moved quickly to outline leadership continuity. Veteran developers Yannick Banchereau and Mathias Karlson will continue as creative directors for The Division 2 and The Division 3. Massive Entertainment veteran Magnus Jansen has returned to lead The Division 2: Survivors, the franchise’s extraction-based mode.
For you as a player, this matters because it confirms that The Division 3 continues without a creative reset or change in direction. Ubisoft framed the transition as planned rather than disruptive, reinforcing its confidence in the existing team.
Gerighty’s Message to the Community
Gerighty addressed fans directly in a farewell message, using language familiar to longtime players. He described the move as the start of a new adventure while expressing confidence in the teams carrying The Division forward. His tone focused on continuity rather than departure, a reassurance aimed squarely at the community he helped build.
He did not confirm his specific role at EA, but his move aligns with Electronic Arts’ ongoing efforts to strengthen Battlefield Studios.
The Broader Context at Ubisoft
Gerighty’s exit comes during a period of restructuring at Ubisoft. The company recently announced proposed organizational changes at Massive Entertainment that could affect dozens of roles. These changes follow earlier voluntary redundancy programs and broader cost-cutting measures across Ubisoft’s global studios.
At the same time, Ubisoft continues to invest in The Division as a long-term franchise, supporting live content for The Division 2, mobile entries, and the next mainline sequel.
What Comes Next
While Ubisoft has not revealed gameplay or release details for The Division 3, leadership continuity suggests development remains on course. For players watching closely, Gerighty’s departure raises questions, but Ubisoft’s response points to stability rather than uncertainty.
As EA integrates Gerighty into Battlefield Studios and Ubisoft pushes forward with its roadmap, both franchises enter a transitional moment shaped by experience, shifting priorities, and long-term ambition.
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