Lode Runner creator Douglas E. Smith dies at 54

Douglas E. Smith, the creator of classic puzzle platformer Lode Runner, has sadly passed away.

The game was one of the first to introduce level editors and challenged players to navigate a maze of platforms and ladders to collect gold without being captured by guards.

News of Smith’s passing emerged from Tozai Games, the US-based studio that worked with the veteran developer on Lode Runner remakes and updated versions for today’s platforms.

"It is with great sadness that we learned today of the passing of our friend and colleague, Douglas Smith, the creator of the iconic game Lode Runner," the studio wrote in a post titled ‘In Memoriam, Douglas E. Smith, 1960 – 2014‘.

"Our hearts and prayers are with Doug’s family during this difficult time. In Doug’s honour, we call on the legions of Lode Runner fans everywhere to take a private moment to reflect on your own personal memories of Lode Runner. 

"What a contribution Doug made to the video game industry. Doug, from all of us at Tozai and from all of your fans, may you rest in peace."

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