They Create Worlds

TCW Podcast Episode 208 - Two Dunes: The Battle for Arrakis   In this episode, we delve into the expansive universe of Dune, a rich tapestry woven with themes, warnings, and boundless inspiration. Its profound impact extends beyond literature, influencing science fiction and serving as a wellspring of creativity for writers, artists, and futurists alike. Our focus shifts to the realm of gaming as we explore the intricate landscape of adaptations, particularly the simultaneous development of two landmark Dune games by Virgin Games. Cryo Interactive's adventure strategy game "Dune" and Westwood Studio's real-time strategy game "Dune 2: Battle for Arrakis" emerge as distinct creations, each influenced by its respective studio's vision. We navigate the complexities of rights acquisition following Frank Herbert's passing and the lukewarm reception of the 1984 film adaptation, shedding light on the intricate plots and tangled webs that define these two seminal Dune gaming experiences.   DUNE Series Explained: https

TCW Podcast Episode 207 - SEGA Saturn Part 2   In the second part of our examination of the SEGA Saturn, we delve into its influences, challenges, and lasting impact. Beginning with a detailed analysis of its pricing strategy, we scrutinize the psychological effect of pricing items at $99, creating an illusion of affordability. We then explore the cultural context in Japan, highlighting the tradition of Otoshidama and its influence on the perception of video games compared to the United States. Additionally, we investigate the collaborative efforts between SEGA of Japan and SEGA of America, particularly in the development of the 32X add-on for the SEGA Genesis. Despite potential advancements, concerns arose about the perceived high cost for a market still viewing video games as disposable toys. The emergence of SEGA's arcade division further complicated matters with the release of Virtua Fighter, signaling the advent of 3D gaming. This shift was notably exemplified by Virtua Fighter's port to the Saturn and t

TCW Podcast Episode 206 - SEGA Saturn Part 1   In this in-depth exploration of the SEGA Saturn, our focus delves into the intricate technology that underpins the console. We delve into the challenges associated with 3D modeling, collision detection, and object occlusion, scrutinizing how the Saturn, primarily a sprite-based system, manages to incorporate 3D elements. The pivotal moment arrives with the announcement of the Sony PlayStation, prompting SEGA's aspirations for enhanced 3D capabilities. SEGA sought Hitachi's involvement to augment the machine's speed for handling 3D demands. Fortuitously, the utilization of the SH2 chip presented an opportunity for two processors to collaborate seamlessly. Our discussion delves into the profound technical intricacies, laying the groundwork for the subsequent episode where we will unravel the repercussions of these technological endeavors for SEGA and the Saturn.   TCW 127 - Dreams of SEGA: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/dreams-of-sega/ TCW 129 - The Crash Th

TCW Podcast Episode 205 - Shepherd's Mass Effect 2 & 3   In our examination of the second and third installments of the Mass Effect trilogy, we delve into the development of each game and the transformative impact of BioWare's acquisition by EA. Mass Effect 2 marked a notable departure, shifting away from RPG elements towards a more structured shooter, with a renewed emphasis on narrative, albeit sidelining the original game's crew and downplaying choices made in its predecessor. Regrettably, Mass Effect 3 faced challenges, including the departure of its head writer and a departure from the hard sci-fi roots. The third game disappointed fans as high aspirations fell short, particularly in the lack of meaningful impact from player choices on the ending, which itself was criticized for adopting a Deus Ex Machina style conclusion. Despite these setbacks, the series retains a devoted fan base, attesting to its enduring appeal.   Want to get Alex's book? Want to save some cash doing so? Want more books, and he

TCW Podcast Episode 204 - Exploring the Mass Effect   In part one of a two-part exploration of the original Mass Effect trilogy, the game emerges as a synthesis of diverse influences from literary books, video games, art styles, TV shows, and movies. Drawing heavily from Bablyon 5 and the TV series 24, the main framework of Mass Effect reflects a blend of narrative inspirations. The art style, inspired by luminaries such as architect Santiago Calatrava, futurist Syd Mead, and John Harris, contributes to the game's visually captivating universe. The initial year of development was dedicated to crafting a compelling hard sci-fi universe. A key goal was to imbue the game with cinematic qualities and broaden its audience appeal, challenging the conventions of RPGs at the time. The innovative use of a dialog wheel, featuring concise words to convey dialog choices, coupled with full voice acting for both player characters and the main protagonist, marked significant strides in the gaming landscape.   KOTR in 3 Minu

TCW Podcast Episode 203 - Alone In The Dark   Despite appearing outdated by today's standards, Alone in the Dark remains a highly influential game in the survival horror genre. Numerous franchises, including Silent Hill, Resident Evil, and Eternal Darkness, either cite or incorporate tropes popularized by Alone in the Dark. Spearheaded by Frédérick Raynal, the game drew inspiration from Giallo films and Alfred Hitchcock's suspenseful works. It pioneered the use of 3D models in a pre-rendered environment with fixed camera angles, a technique later adopted as a staple on the first Sony PlayStation. Despite its significant success, Raynal departed Infogrames due to a lack of recognition, inadequate compensation, and the directive to create a new game with the same engine within a year. Subsequently, he founded his own company, Adeline Software.   Content Warning: The movies and genres referenced may not be suitable for some audiences.   Can You Hack Your Eyes to See Upside Down: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E

TCW Podcast Episode 202 - Advanced Balls and Paddles Part 2   Following the release of Breakout by Atari, its influence spread to Japan, sparking a surge in demand that prompted numerous Japanese companies to enter the video game industry by creating clones of the popular game. Seeking innovation, Exidy developed Circus, introducing new elements to the Breakout formula. The widespread appeal of Breakout extended to the home gaming market with Atari and Nintendo releasing ball and paddle games. A standout in this genre was the uniquely designed Warlords, which evolved in parallel as an arcade and console game. Concluding our exploration, we delve into the history of Arkanoid, unveiling its captivating story, including previously unknown details about the creators that have yet to be found in English sources.   Monaco GP: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGTGoKR7hUI TCW 179 - Space Invaders and Nishikado: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/space-invaders-and-nishikado/ TCW 180 - Space Invaders Part II: http:/

TCW Podcast Episode 201 - Advanced Balls and Paddles Part 1   In this two-part exploration of advancements in ball and paddle games beyond Pong, we delve into the human fascination with balls and trace the evolution of coin-operated games leading to Pong's creation. Ramtek's contributions, especially with Wipe Out and Clean Sweep, spurred Atari to experiment with new ideas, resulting in Pin Pong. Other companies like Midway and Exidy also entered the scene with TV Flipper and TV Pinball, respectively. The narrative culminates with a detailed examination of the Breakout story, shedding light on subtle nuances often overlooked. The exploration concludes with the monumental success of Breakout upon its launch.   TCW 107 - Storytime with a Book: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/storytime-with-a-book/ Screenshots of Whirlwind Bouncing Ball & Extras: https://retrocomputingforum.com/t/footage-of-bouncing-ball-on-whirlwind/2124 Whirlwind Bouncing Ball Simulator: https://www.retrogamedeconstructionzone.com/20

TCW Podcast Episode 200 - The History of Handheld Games Part 3   In our concluding episode exploring the evolution of handheld games, we kick off with the Amiga and the allure of bouncing balls before delving into the Atari Lynx, an early and captivating handheld console. Despite its appeal, the Lynx struggled against challenges like its high price, the limited library of engaging games, and subpar battery life, ultimately being overshadowed by the Nintendo Game Boy—a device well-suited for puzzle games. Sega's Game Gear, whose origin may have stolen its design from Nintendo or Epyx- It's complicated. The Game Gear was notable but never had a lasting impact. Gunpei Yokoi took a daring leap with the Virtual Boy, which unfortunately flopped, returning to familiar ground with the Game Boy Pocket. Yokoi's departure coincided with the rise of Pokémon, injecting new vitality into handheld gaming. Yokoi later founded his own company, contributing to the development of Bandai's Wonderswan. This prompted Nintendo's re

TCW Podcast Episode 199 - The History of Handheld Games Part 2   Continuing in front of a live streaming audience, part two of our exploration into the history of handheld games delves into the pivotal role of LCDs. We kick off with the Microvision and trace the progression through the iconic Game & Watch, credited with saving Nintendo during challenging times and inspiring emulation by companies like Tiger Electronics. Citing the advancements in LCD technology, we culminate with a detailed examination of the enigmatic origins of the Game Boy, dispelling common misconceptions and unraveling a more intricate narrative. The episode concludes just before the release of the Game Boy, leaving listeners on the edge of their seats with a journey through the previously opaque yet fascinating world of handheld gaming history.   How LCD Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VbdhbyiHX-s MicroVision Complete Library: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6NmwIvrDR8w TCW 153 - Nintendo Playing with Cards: http://podcast.the

TCW Podcast Episode 198 - The History of Handheld Games Part 1   Recorded in front of a live-streaming audience, we delve into the captivating history of handheld games, commencing with an unexpected origin—the pocket-sized calculator. The innovative strides made in pocket calculator technology paved the way for toy companies to venture into the realm of handheld electronic games, resulting in classics such as Mattel Football and Auto Race. As advancements and reduced production costs followed, favorites like Simon and Merlin emerged. However, the early games faced a common challenge—the limitations of display capabilities at an affordable price point. To overcome this hurdle, inventive technologies like nixie tubes, VFD displays, and LEDs were harnessed to deliver engaging gameplay experiences. Notably, the VFD display mini arcades left a lasting mark, offering some of the most captivating recreations of popular arcade titles. This is part 1 of a 3-part series, exploring the evolution of handheld gaming and

TCW Podcast Episode 197 - The ID of Game Development   ID Software; the makers of many games that are beloved by gamers. Due to the need for rapid development ID was forced to separate game design from the mechanics. Having a dedicated game engine that was focused on visual and support technologies as opposed to the specifics of game design. ID Software utilized tools to make levels, licensing the engine to other companies, and so much more. Many moders of Doom got their start in the video game industry by being level designers for other companies. ID was instrumental in popularizing the structure by which games are made to this day.   TCW 030 - DOOM!: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/doom-1479057917/ TCW 192 - Microprose Part 1: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/microprose-part-1/ TCW 193 - Microprose Part 2: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/microprose-part-2/   Slordax: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DMj2WlSsg4o Engine Overview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xrqRuxAkkG8 Commander Keen 1: ht

TCW Podcast Episode 196 - The Sumerian Game   The Sumerian Game is one of the first uses of video games to help enhance education. Developed using some funds from the National Defense Education Act, the Sumerian game used education techniques where facts and data could be presented not by a teacher, but by a computer. The game itself is notable because it was designed by Mabel Addis, one of the first women to design a video game. Though the game has been lost to time its influence is felt to this day. The first part was the inspiration for Hamurabi, influencing Civilization, and other game designers that followed. We beg to report on this fascinating bit of video game history!   I'm Learnding: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PKg2ZzPKl2M NDEA: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3ChXTy_C3xs Formal Logic Overview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_MUDF1d1sU Formal Logic: https://www.youtube.com/@FormalLogic Oh No my Brain: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SZoQxH-il7E Mabel Addis: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mabel_

TCW Podcast Episode 195 - Finding Video Game Copyright   We look at copyrights and video games. Where did they come from? Were video games even creative works that could be copyrighted? If a video game is copyrightable is it like a book or like a movie? We look at how the United States, Japan, the United Kingdom, and Europe answered these questions in game maker's long legal battles to combat counterfeiters, parallel importers, and more. Hey at one point it started a Yakuza war!   TCW 179 - Space Invaders and Nishikado: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/space-invaders-and-nishikado/ TCW 180 - Space Invaders Part II: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/space-invaders-part-ii/ Sea Wolf: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ipssJjkN2bY Depth Charge: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTuJb4MLGzs IPM Invaders: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DBtV4cqqkVQ Astro Blaster: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AR2kStMWBCs Star Castle: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qOFLaa3bmiU Scramble: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R_zO5p

TCW Podcast Episode 194 - The 7th Guest   We cover the 7th guest in so much detail it's frightening! This game has everything from a genius bedroom programmer from the UK teaming up with an artist who made some raunchy comics, to bar fights, Twin Peaks, and a Shakespeare troupe. The 7th guest has it all to bring us a game that turned CD-ROM from an expensive luxury to a must-have item for any PC. Join us as we look at all the influences that led to the creation of a horror classic The 7th Guest! Just don't try and beat the virus!   TCW 082 - An Unlikely Paring of Siliwood: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/an-unlikely-pairing-of-siliwood/ Sherlock Holmes Consulting Detective: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EePWe5JZins Ballblazer ZX Spectrum: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wOQiy2JB3x8 Ballblazer 11 Version comparison: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_tkwWD_BWWQ Metropolis PC: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=415OUgctnX0 Defender of the Crown: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cvW6okgy4wA Spot the Video Game

TCW Podcast Episode 193 - Microprose Part 2   In part two of our look at Microprose we focus on the growth of the company with popular games like Gunship, and Sid Meier's Pirates. Wild Bill continued his aggressive push to expand the company moving into the UK market and even the coin-op space. This unfortunately led Sid to step back from the company and become a contractor. Wild Bill took the company public to help cover the costs of missteps but eventually became embroiled in his own troubles with pressure from the board. It was during a time when he was forced to step back from the company, and the release of problematic adventure and role-playing games led the company to be acquired by Spectrum Holobyte.   Silent Service: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qz4shxxdero Gunship DOS: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fCZUc0d8ol8 Gunship C64: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A8bBV7uzbSs Airborne Ranger: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6wEH2c98-Nc Rules of Wooden Ships and Iron Men: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=

TCW Podcast Episode 192 -Microprose Part 1   In the first part of our look at Microprose, we cover the central characters of Wild Bill Stealey and Sid Meier. The duo came from very different backgrounds that helped inform the creative and business powerhouse. Wild Bill had to grow up at a young age after his father's death. This led to him having to manage the home finances, negotiate out of debt, and learn many of the skills that would help him in his military, and business careers. We have covered some of Sid's history in episode 50, but we have a lot of new information with additional research and Sid's autobiography. We cover Microprose's founding with a bet between the two at a convention in Los Vegas, and Wild Bill pushing to have his dream of playing a video game able to realistically represent what it was like to fly a jet fighter.   TCW 050 - Civilizing Sid Meier: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/civilizing-sid-meier/ War Games Ending: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s93KC4AGKnY Formula 1 Racing

TCW Podcast Episode 191 - SEGA and CSK Part  2   In part two of our look at SEGA and CSK we look closely at the circumstances that lead to Isao Okawa taking direct control as CEO of SEGA. We also take a new look at the circumstances that lead to the financial difficulties with SEGA in lending money inside the company. We have a lot of new insights here behind the problems with the Dreamcast, how Okawa wanted to take CSK and SEGA more network focused, and some of the safeties he put in place in case his ambitions failed. Ultimately with Okawa's passing CSK wanted to go in a more financial services direction, and ended up selling their stake in SEGA to Sammy. Sammy then used this to buy out the rest of SEGA a year later.   TCW 127 - Dreams of SEGA: http://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/dreams-of-sega/ Dreamcast Commercials: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JL5-sx2A0-M Dreamcast News Just Before Release: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqocFElidKI Dreamcast Launch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gT9gseRFzqA Japa

TCW Podcast Episode 190 - SEGA and CSK Part 1   In this first of a two-part episode about SEGA and CSK, we look at the origin of CSK, and the major players involved. Most notably Isao Okawa who had a history of making bold moves to pivot CSK during uncertain times. SEGA was in the hands of Hayao Nakayama who got Okawa to buy the company from Gulf and Western. Nakayama then worked for many years to transition the corporate structure from a US one to a more traditional Japanese structure. This allowed SEGA to become a public company in Japan. We have a lot more information looking from the CSK Corporation side of things, and in part two look at Okawa taking over SEGA and trying to pivot again as he battled a terminal illness.   How Products are Priced: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KYqvqScg_j8 Pricing Effect - Why a Higher Price Rag Makes Wine Taste Better: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wb3PsQFB3fU Complete Guide to Business Cards in Japan: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kh0qYdDl4IE   They Create Worlds SE

TCW Podcast Episode 189 - The Simulations of Will Wright   In part two we look at the Sim craze with the release of Sim Earth, Sim Ant, and others. It was Sim Ant in combination with the loss of Will Wright's home in the Oakland firestorm of 1991 that laid the groundwork for what would become The Sims. The game went through many iterations, and would not see fruition until the acquisition of Maxis by Electronic Arts. The game became a phenomenal success and was as big a hit, if not bigger, than Sim City. Will Wright continued with the creation of the game Spore which, while heavily hyped, was a very shallow amalgamation of five different games. Will Wright is still trying to make games based on systems, but as of yet none have reached the impact of Sim City or The Sims.   Gaia Hypothesis - James Lovelock: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GIFRg2skuDI Sim Earth (SNES): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_t_foiU3fHo Sim Earth (PC): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AOtbazBWijw SimAnt Gameplay: https://www.youtube.com/