Level designer Richard Gray, known to players as "Levelord," has passed away at the age of 68. He contributed to level and map design for Duke Nukem 3D. Apogee Entertainment has issued a statement mourning his passing, highlighting the impact he left on both players and developers.
Apogee founder Scott Miller recalled hiring Gray in 1994 after seeing the Doom levels he had created. Miller praised Gray for his ability to push the engine's capabilities and for his innovative use of techniques like portals in level design.
In 1996, Gray worked on level and map design for Duke Nukem 3D. The game's hidden Easter egg, "You shouldn't be here," remains etched in players' memories alongside his levels.
After leaving 3D Realms, Gray co-founded Hipnotic Interactive, which later became Ritual Entertainment. His subsequent work on shooter titles included Quake: Scourge of Armagon, Sin, and Star Trek: Elite Force II.
Several developers also posted tributes to Gray, recalling his creativity, sense of humor, and the help he offered to his peers. The official cause of Gray's death has not yet been announced.