Ralf Kraus

I’m at a loss for words… Richard B. Gray, better known to many as “Levelord,” has passed away. Richard was someone I had the privilege of getting to know very well over the years, alongside Smitty, Jim Dose, and Rob Atkins, during my many trips to Dallas. We spent countless hours together, and even when he was back in Russia, we would often catch up over the phone. Having grown up as a huge fan of his work, getting to know him personally and eventually having the opportunity to work alongside him for so many years was something truly special. It’s one of those experiences I’ll always be grateful for. Richard was, without a doubt, one of the kindest people I’ve ever met in the games industry. Incredibly humble, remarkably intelligent, endlessly creative, and always a pleasure to be around. Despite everything he had accomplished and the enormous influence his work had on my generation of game developers, he never carried himself as anything other than a genuinely good human being. It’s heartbreaking to know he’s no longer with us. The games industry has lost a true legend, but more importantly, those of us who were fortunate enough to know him have lost a wonderful friend. I’ll always cherish the conversations, the laughs and the stories. Rest in peace, Richard. Thank you for everything, both as a friend and as someone who helped inspire me to do what I do today. You’ll be deeply missed. ❤️