Black and white artist Paul McLaughlin has died

Artist Paul McLaughlin died of unknown causes in December. He was then 57 years old. McLaughlin is survived by his wife and three children.

McLaughlin has worked in the gaming industry for over 30 years. He has held positions at 22cans, Lionhead and Bullfrog. He worked on a variety of different games at these companies including Fable, Black & White, Populous 2, Syndicate, Dungeon Keeper, and more.

McLauchlin spent almost half of his career at Lionhead where he worked for 15 years. He was art director behind the beloved Fable and Black & White franchises.

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Gaming industry figures have offered their condolences, including former Lionhead colleague Peter Molyneux. “Paul came into my life in 1990 when he started at Bullfrog as employee number four. He was the first true games artist I ever met. Immediately he became invaluable, an essential part of the many titles we’ve all worked on. He absolutely made a difference on Powermonger, Syndicate, Magic Carpet, Theme Park and Dungeon Keeper,” he said. “Then when Lionhead was created, he not only guided Black & White, The Movies and Fable, but also helped run the company.”

Molyneux called McLaughlin “a great artist, a wonderful mentor, and an inspirational man.” He went on to say that “Paul was a huge cornerstone in my life. He was a professional, moral and funny person who had the ability to see the right and sensible approach in any situation. I miss him all every day in every way. His legacy will be felt and seen for a long, long time.”

This comes following another industry veteran, Russell Lees, who died of unknown causes in January. Lees was a writer and narrative designer best known for his work on the Assassin’s Creed franchise. “We lost a dear friend and a brilliant colleague this week,” said former Ubisoft colleague Darby McDevitt. “Screenwriter and narrative designer Russell Lees has been part of the Assassin’s Creed and Far Cry families for over a decade. All who have worked with him will attest to his patience, generosity, passion and brilliant mind.

McLaughlin’s news is a blow to the many fans of his work. While the gaming industry has lost another legend, his work will continue to inspire for years to come. This veteran will never be forgotten for his contributions to the games industry.

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