In a rather shocking bit of news, Treyarch Studio Design Director David “Vahn” Vonderhaar has announced that he is departing the Call of Duty studio after 18 years of service.

This was announced by David Vonderhaar on Twitter:

After an incredible 18 years and 8 Call of Duy games, I am moving on to explore new opportunities.

More here: https://t.co/DXkWnGcVlw

— Vahn (@DavidVonderhaar) August 18, 2023

Treyarch’s official Twitter account also acknowledged the amazing work Vahn has made over the years.

Farewell to the legendary David Vonderhaar, whose discipline, creativity & innovation helped shape our games from COD 2: Big Red One to Black Ops Cold War. His iconic phrases & groundbreaking ideas will be missed. Excited for your next adventure. #ThankYouVahn

— Treyarch Studios (@Treyarch) August 18, 2023

Over on LinkedIn, Vonderhaar posted a statement confirming he is now working on an undisclosed project.

Today I am sharing that I have left Activision and Treyarch after an incredible 18 years and 8 Call of Duty games.

To my co-workers at Treyarch, I am immensely grateful for the time we invested working to improve our craft, never sitting on successes, and always wondering how to improve what we design and how we produce it.

Thank you to the Call of Duty community for your passion and enthusiasm. That energy has often fueled our determination as a studio and individuals. I will always be grateful for the opportunity to interact with so many of you directly online and in person. This energy will always be a massive part of me.

I am staying in the games industry, working on an undisclosed project I can’t discuss yet, but I am excited about a rare and unique opportunity. I’ll update you as soon as possible.

David / Vahn

David Vonderhaar has worked on all of Treyarch’s Call of Duty games, and started as the Online Manager for Call of Duty 2: Big Red One. Throughout the years, Vahn was see as “the man” who called the shots on Treyarch’s Call of Duty multiplayer and was (usually) beloved by fans of the franchise (which is a rare thing).

We wish you success in your undisclosed project, Vahn!

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