Epic Games Loses Level Design Legend Sjoerd de Jong After 12 Years As Unreal Engine 6 Embraces AI - Wccftech
Unreal Engine's lead evangelist just walked. His reason: the industry is at a 'pivotal point' AI is forcing everyone to reckon with.
Why it matters
A 12-year veteran's departure signals how AI adoption is reshaping game development roles and forcing industry reckoning on what skills matter next. The timing—as Unreal Engine 6 embraces AI—suggests automation is beginning to displace specialized creative labor.
The key facts
9 to knowSjoerd de Jong, Unreal Engine lead evangelist, departed after 12 years at Epic Games
De Jong cited industry at 'pivotal point' and need to 'come to terms with' changes
Departure coincides with Unreal Engine 6's embrace of AI capabilities
De Jong was known as one of best-known advocates for Unreal Engine
Suggests shift in value of traditional level design expertise as AI tools proliferate
Sjoerd de Jong (Unreal Engine Lead Evangelist) departed after 12 years at Epic Games
Departure coincides with Unreal Engine 6's AI integration
De Jong positioned as prominent Unreal Engine advocate in industry
Published June 22, 2026
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Publisher excerpt: Epic Games Loses Level Design Legend Sjoerd de Jong After 12 Years As Unreal Engine 6 Embraces AI Wccftech ‘This era has come to a close’: Unreal Engine veteran leaves Epic Games, says the industry is at ‘a pivotal point’ Video Games Chronicle One of the best-known advocates of the Unreal Engine…