Call of Duty Studio Loses Multiplayer Development Director

After a 15-year tenure, Greg Reisdorf, the Call of Duty multiplayer creative director, has departed Sledgehammer Games. His contributions spanned numerous Call of Duty titles, beginning with Modern Warfare 3 in 2011. Reisdorf played a pivotal role in the development of Modern Warfare 3's multiplayer, overseeing live seasonal content and modes.

Reisdorf's journey with Sledgehammer Games, established in 2009, commenced with his involvement in the original Modern Warfare 3. His career progression within the studio is noteworthy, marked by contributions to various aspects of gameplay. He cites the "Soap on a gurney" sequence in Modern Warfare 3's Blood Brothers mission as a particularly memorable and enjoyable experience.

His impact extended to shaping the "boots on the ground" era of Call of Duty, through his work on Advanced Warfare's movement mechanics (boost jumps, dodging, tactical reloads), weapon designs, and map creation. He openly acknowledges his reservations about Advanced Warfare's "Pick 13" system, believing that killstreaks should remain separate from essential weapon choices.

Reisdorf also reflected on his work on Call of Duty: WW2, highlighting the initial challenges with the game's class-restricted weapon system and the subsequent positive changes implemented. His contributions to Call of Duty: Vanguard included the creation of both classic three-lane maps and more innovative designs, reflecting his preference for engaging gameplay over strict military realism.

His final major project, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 (2023), saw him lead the multiplayer development, including the creation of numerous live season modes (like Season 1's Snowfight and Infectious Holiday). He oversaw the development of over 20 modes for Modern Warfare 3's post-launch content. Reisdorf's announcement on Twitter on January 13th, confirming his departure on January 10th, hinted at future endeavors within the gaming industry.