The statement also added that Altman sent weekly emails to employees during the pandemic and shared one such letter to the public. In it, Altman tells employees to find time for themselves during the pandemic and social distance.
“We know that many are experiencing the pressures of isolation, and the stress associated with our current circumstances,” Altman wrote. “I also urge you to make time for yourself daily, plan online social gatherings and keep your perspective, knowing that it will succeed.”
You can read Altman’s letter in the tweet below.
We are very sad to tell you about the passing of Robert A. Altman, our founder and CEO. He was a true visionary, friend and believer in the spirit of people and the power of what they could accomplish together. He was an extraordinary leader and a better person. pic.twitter.com/FZFsVtHc5t
– Bethesda (@bethesda) February 4, 2021
Altman, who was born in 1947, began his career as a lawyer in Washington DC. In 1999, Altman and Bethesda Softworks founder Christopher Weaver founded ZeniMax Media as the new parent company for the Maryland-based gaming studio.
Under Altman, ZeniMax has grown into a number of well-known game studios, including Arkane Studios, id Software, MachineGames and Tango Gameworks. These studios have worked together on some of the biggest games in the industry, such as Fallout, Wolfenstein, Dishonored, Doom, and more.
He is survived by his wife, Lynda Carter, and two children.
MattTM Kim is a reporter for IGN.
(Photo by Vivien Killilea / Getty Images for Bethesda)