ESA, Games Industry in for Big Changes

An anonymous reader writes to mention an EToyChest article with a bit of perspective on the departure of Doug Lowenstein from the Entertainment Software Association. Lowenstein, who helped to kickstart the group, was instrumental in the ESA's grown and continued well-being. Now that he's moved on a new gig, the article points out that the industry is in for some changes in the years ahead. From the article: "Doug Lowenstein, a man that Jack Thompson has likened on separate occasions to such delightful despots as Saddam Hussein and Hitler, has been the advocate de jour for the industry since he signed on in 1994. Refusing to directly engage firebrands like Thompson in televised debates, Mr. Lowenstein has a history of picking and choosing his battles. Where Thompson prefers to argue his position in front of cameras, Mr. Lowenstein fought his battles quietly, but persistently. Under his guidance, the game industry has undergone its biggest transformation; it's now expected to gross in the area of $12 billion worldwide, more than four times the business it was doing when he signed on. While one would hesitate to give Mr. Lowenstein credit for the industry's success, his steady hand has been instrumental in sidestepping many of the media landmines that we've come across on the way. "

Comments

Fils-Aime

[MeanderingMind]

Honestly, I can't agree with the article that he's the man for the job. Reggie's very good at talking trash, pumping up crowds, and being awesome. Basically, he's a good entertainer and businessman. However, these aren't the skills the ESA needs.

The ESA needs someone who is cool, but that's only one of many factors. It needs to be someone new, unaffiliated with any of the big 3, yet someone who can go toe to toe with politicians, the media and write off whackos like Jack Thompson skillfully.

Reggie's an interesting idea, but he's not the man for the job.