“The ’80s Called. They Want Their Campaign Back.”

Back in 1989, Pakko’s friend’s older sister famously burst in on a Dungeons & Dragons session, declaring, “Ma! They’re playing the devil’s game!!” (She lived in South Carolina and went to church a lot—you get the picture.) It was an era of hand-drawn character sheets and living room adventures, long before the cutting-edge graphics of today’s games like Fortnite.

Tapping into this nostalgic vibe, Obsidian Entertainment teamed up with E/LA Advertising to promote their Pathfinder Adventures mobile game. Drawing inspiration from the ‘80s aesthetic and shows like Stranger Things, the campaign transported viewers back to a simpler time—your parents’ living room.

Pakko’s involvement in the campaign was as bold as it was creative. He not only played a key role in developing every aspect of the work but also landed the account with a daring cold call, directly asking for the opportunity to pitch. The result was a campaign that perfectly captured the spirit of the ’80s, resonating deeply with both gamers and nostalgia enthusiasts. This fearless creativity and drive for connection continue to inspire AIM’s campaigns today.