Wow, THT! I was their Director of IT around 2007-2010. Thanks for the trip down memory lane!
But then again I am probably the only one who is disappointed over this announcement - the game sounds really boring to me.
This is generally the case at most places where software development is done, even when the software is the product.
For example, as any developer working at an "enterprise software" shop -- despite being the "producers", you're still beholden to (and less important than) the sales folks.
Not saying that's right or wrong, just that that is how it is.
... but, if you talk to any big-finance leaders these days, they'll probably admit to you that their tech is their competitive advantage (and not just in HFT, either).
Second fiddle, depends where you're working. Like everything else, there are crappy shops and there are amazing ones.
Even if your imagination were correct, I'd expect "money" would be a factor. Not all developers are primarily concerned about maximizing workplace status.