Meaning: This quote from David Crane, one of the co-founders of the video game company Activision, sheds light on the pivotal role played by Jim Levy, the company's co-founder and president, in revolutionizing the marketing and promotion of video games. It highlights the transformative impact Levy had on the video game industry, drawing a parallel between the marketing of video game designers and the rock star promotion seen in the music industry.

In the early days of the video game industry, game designers were rarely given credit for their work. Games were often marketed solely based on their titles or the companies that produced them, with little recognition given to the creative minds behind the games. However, with the arrival of Jim Levy, who brought with him a background in the record industry, a paradigm shift occurred in the marketing and promotion of video games.

Jim Levy's experience in the record industry provided him with a deep understanding of how to promote and market artists, leveraging their personalities and talents to create a strong connection with the audience. He recognized the potential for a similar approach in the video game industry, understanding that the designers behind the games were integral to their success and deserved recognition.

Under Levy's guidance, the video game business underwent a significant transformation. Designers, who had previously received little to no credit, began to be recognized and promoted in a manner akin to rock stars in the music industry. This shift not only elevated the status of game designers but also created a more personal and engaging connection between the creators and the players.

Levy's vision and approach not only brought about a fundamental change in the way video games were marketed but also had a lasting impact on the industry as a whole. By recognizing and promoting the creative talent behind the games, the industry began to celebrate and highlight the contributions of designers, fostering a greater sense of appreciation and respect for their work.

The quote reflects the profound impact of Jim Levy's influence on the video game industry, emphasizing the shift from a lack of designer credit to a culture of rock star promotion. It serves as a testament to the transformative power of visionary leadership and the potential for cross-industry inspiration and innovation.

In summary, Jim Levy's background in the record industry brought about a paradigm shift in the marketing and promotion of video games, elevating the status of game designers and revolutionizing the industry's approach to recognizing creative talent. This quote encapsulates the significant impact of Levy's vision and leadership, highlighting the transformation from minimal designer credit to a culture of rock star promotion in the video game business.