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    History

    They Create Worlds

    The games we love reveal something true about who we are, and about the world that made them. They Create Worlds is a podcast about the people, technology, and forces that built the video game industry. 

    Through video game history, the show looks at how culture, business, and technology shaped what we play, tracing the choices and circumstances that led to the games so many people around the world enjoy. 

    Each episode digs into where games came from, who made them, and why they were made the way they were. Business decisions, technological shifts, and creative choices all shaped what ended up on screen, and the show covers all of it together, not just one piece in isolation. 

    Hosted by Alex Smith and Jeffrey Daum, They Create Worlds grew out of long conversations about the strange corners of the industry and the patterns that only show up when you look across companies, platforms, and decades. That conversational feel remains, built on careful research, clear structure and editing that makes even the deepest topics easy to listen to. 

    History turns out to be less settled than it looks. New documents surface, memories conflict, and the clean stories about why things happened the way they did rarely survive contact with the evidence. The show digs into all of that, following the creative and business forces that pushed and pulled on each other, and uncovering the human stories that lie beneath the games so many people around the world enjoy. 

    New episodes are released twice a month. 

    Advertise

    Copyright: © Copyright 2015-2019 . All rights reserved.

    • Apple Podcasts
    • Google Play
    • Spotify

    Latest Episodes:
    Donkey Kong Feb 01, 2025
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 227 - Donkey Kong

    Donkey Kong, a game and character that stands as one of the foundational elements of video game history, has a popular narrative with some inaccuracies that need correction. Thanks to the efforts of Kate Willaert and Norman Caruso, we can better understand the influences and origins of Donkey Kong. Nintendo’s use of hardware from another game, Radar Scope, imposed technical limitations that prevented them from securing the desired Popeye license. Donkey Kong drew inspiration from games like Crazy Climber and Space Panic, and its four stages even incorporate elements of the Eastern storytelling structure known as Kishōtenketsu. Join us as we delve into the fascinating origins of Donkey Kong like never before!

    Futurama - Quarters! A Million Allowances Worth of Quarters!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kbPWti2CoRg

    "Critical Kate" Willaert: https://www.acriticalhit.com/

    Norman Caruso "The Gaming Historian": https://thegaminghistorian.com/

    In The Year 2525 - Zager & Evans: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb7poHQuMWg

    Wikipedia (Donkey Kong - 1981 Video Game): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Donkey_Kong_(1981_video_game)

    Space Firebird (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k0MSz55Ct-0

    Radar Scope (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5kbliYx51ok

    Galaxian (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s0OTi8hLYpg

    How the Famicom was Born: https://glitterberri.com/developer-interviews/how-the-famicom-was-born/

    Shmuplations - Shigeru Miyamoto – 2000 Developer Interview: https://shmuplations.com/miyamoto2000/

    Shmuplations - Donkey Kong - A Record of Struggle: https://shmuplations.com/donkeykong/

    Popeye The Sailor Man - A Dream Walking: https://www.dailymotion.com/video/x2rt7c6

    Crazy Climber (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kZxndttbLIY

    Space Panic (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dLd1xABCsaQ

    Design Bytes SMB 1-1: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=La2aGhZxLkQ

    Barrel Jumping Championship 1957: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvuK8NNSOnI

    Scramble (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yk6BTqzLLfk

    Kishōtenketsu Explained: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7to8TC5sJVc

    Lionel Hutz Explains "The Truth": https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-Nc88_ZEfxg

    Gaming Historian - How the Mario Characters Got Their Names: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aTyxQfpOEbE

    Disinclined to acquiesce…: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3SLGgIMCUzk

    Donkey Kong (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UBHJhla8TO4

    Donkey Kong Cereal Commercials: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGvDhBdClFY

    Donkey Kong Cartoon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zyfayak2djo&list=PLP9LnKF6J6Lod1PYlsQ2zJ9OsZT-ALBga

    New episodes are on the 1st and 15th of every month!

    TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com

    Twitter: @tcwpodcast

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds

    Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com

    Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1

    Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode

    Outro Music: RoleMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love

    Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


    Ray Kassar Jan 15, 2025
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 226 - Ray Kassar

    Ray Kassar rose from humble beginnings to become a talented, savvy, and personable executive. He began his career in the textile industry at Burlington Industries, where he eventually became president of its most profitable division. However, after the unexpected passing of Burlington’s head, Kassar faced ageism and cronyism, which stifled his advancement. Despite climbing the corporate ladder again, he was passed over for a more tenured executive. Leaving Burlington, Kassar founded a company importing Egyptian cotton for the U.S., where he planned to work until retirement. However, Manny Gerard of Warner Communications recruited him to stabilize Atari after its recent acquisition. Kassar’s leadership introduced a robust marketing strategy, reduced manufacturing defects, and turned Atari into a massive profit center. Though his rapid adaptation to the gaming industry sparked some resentment and controversy, Kassar’s impact on Atari was undeniable. His story is one of nuance and twists, as Atari would not have achieved its success without his visionary leadership.

    TCW 046 - Atari, Ray Kassar, and Warner: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/atari-ray-kassar-and-warner/

    TCW 104 - A Holistic View of ET: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/a-holistic-view-of-et/

    TCW 186 - Atari's Distribution Nightmare: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/atari-s-distribution-nightmare/

    TCW 187 - Atari's Sinking Ship: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/atari-s-sinking-ship/

    Once Upon Atari - How I made history by killing an industry: (Affiliate link): https://amzn.to/4fUDNx6

    New episodes are on the 1st and 15th of every month!

    TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com

    Twitter: @tcwpodcast

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds

    Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com

    Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1

    Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode

    Outro Music: RoleMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love

    Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


    Games by Apollo Jan 01, 2025
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 225 - Games by Apollo

    The great video game crash of the mid-1980s had many factors contributing to it. One such factor was the rise of companies like Games by Apollo, which is sometimes seen as an exemplar of the many businesses that entered the video game industry hoping to make quick money. While some criticisms of Games by Apollo are valid, the company was also much more than that, bringing innovative game ideas to the table. Founded by Patrick Roper, who previously created career videos for students, the company grew rapidly and released games at an unprecedented pace. However, many of its games suffered from short production times, leading to control problems, balance issues, and design flaws. Despite these challenges, Games by Apollo consistently tried to push the envelope, creating games that pushed the VCS to new heights!

    Smell BAD (Labyrinth): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_q6H4e7Kvvw

    Fuzzy Bunny's Guide To You Know What (Simpsons): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SQn-DwSW-tk

    Hands Across America: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YnA0uYL4YtI

    Games By Apollo PM Magazine: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O2BhTS-q38A

    Skeet Shoot (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_UWJFOUBxTo

    Spacechase (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdG-v4MY51Q

    Racquetball (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wWueVYa0HJk

    Lochjaw (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GW8HOi1f0G8

    Lost Luggage (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qehLDMO_Ncs

    Kaboom (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lwrZHu-d-vY

    Space Cavern (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EILC0vcdnc4

    Space Cavern - Commercial: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMaMvchzMBI

    Demon Attack (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5GwoSr12kxY

    Kyphus (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LtmgsYN1oBI

    Squoosh (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fQR_hgYZPHA

    Pompeii (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hj_9EnYxqvU

    Play Pompeii: https://atarionline.org/atari-2600/pompeii

    Infiltrate (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u24ngfVWqA8

    Elevator Action (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qrBE8iUwgg4

    Elevator Action (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LM5reigEnv4

    Final Approach (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IcUWNNCCMKE

    Wabbit (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JpJmR9ygI9c

    Video Game History Foundation -The Woman who Brought Female Representation to Games: https://gamehistory.org/wabbit/

    Guardian (Atari 2600): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fmlwqi_UeEU

    New episodes are on the 1st and 15th of every month!

    TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com

    Twitter: @tcwpodcast

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds

    Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com

    Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1

    Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode

    Outro Music: RoleMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love

    Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


    D&D & Video Games 3E Dec 15, 2024
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 224 - D&D & Video Games 3E

    In our final look at D&D & Video Games, we explore the early PC and mainframe computer scene, as well as the games created by fans of D&D. Various aspects of D&D were incorporated into these games, ranging from puzzles and light combat to full-on dungeon dives to claim treasure from the deepest levels. These games grew in popularity and led to others iterating on the aspects they enjoyed. Games on the PLATO system—such as Pedit5, D&D, and Orthanc—paved the way for reimagining these games on home computers, including the Apple II. This foundation led to the creation of seminal titles like Ultima and Wizardry, which would influence RPGs on PCs for over a decade. D&D has a long history of collaborating with different systems and ideas to create innovative forms of gaming, with the potential to continue transforming video games well into the future.

    Livestream 2024 Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahP86-2H8lc

    Playing at the World - Jon Peterson (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/3YokLZC

    The Elusive Shift - Jon Peterson (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/3C8cHVq

    Game Wizards - Jon Peterson (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/48uCtzi

    Colossal Cave Adventure: https://rickadams.org/adventure/

    Play Zork Online: https://textadventures.co.uk/games/view/5zyoqrsugeopel3ffhz_vq/zork

    TCW 170 - A Rogue's Survival Part 1: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/a-rogue-s-survival-part-1/

    TCW 171 - A Rogue's Survival Part 2: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/a-rogue-s-survival-part-2/

    Pedit5: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedit5

    M199h: https://crpgaddict.blogspot.com/2023/10/m199h-new-findings-both-solve-and.html

    Everything We Know About 1970s Mainframe RPGS We Can No Longer Play: https://crpgaddict.blogspot.com/2021/06/brief-everything-we-know-about-1970s.html

    Orthanc (1975): https://crpgaddict.blogspot.com/2013/11/game-123-orthanc-1977.html

    D&D On PLATO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdPrzb534TY

    Revisiting The Dungeon (1975): https://crpgaddict.blogspot.com/2019/01/revisiting-dungeon-1975.html

    Telengard: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZqDnYIsa-po

    Play Telengard: https://www.myabandonware.com/game/telengard-6w

    Moria: https://crpgaddict.blogspot.com/2013/11/game-121-moria-1975.html

    Play Moria (1988 DOS): https://www.myabandonware.com/game/moria-27f/play-27f

    Oubliette: https://crpgaddict.blogspot.com/2013/10/game-12-oubliette-1977.html

    PLATO Oubliette: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3vUmkTi5D-k

    TCW 016 - Early Computer Game Platforms: The Trinity, and the Disciples: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/early-computer-game-platforms-the-trinity-and-the-disciples/

    Play Beneath Apple Manor (DOS 1983): https://www.myabandonware.com/game/beneath-apple-manor-256

    Beneath Apple Manor Walkthrough (Apple II): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6IB7j2KVFrY

    Dungeon Campaign: https://crpgaddict.blogspot.com/2013/01/game-83-dungeon-campaign-1979.html

    Dungeon Campaign (Apple II): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1xY7bZJ1LOQ

    Dragon Maze (Apple II): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P7-PNdthkDw

    Dragon Maze Lets Play: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QZnAmBAxgSo

    Starfleet Orion: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Starfleet_Orion

    Temple of Apshai Intro: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WVcDIQbwtWc

    Temple of Apshai (Commodore Pet): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H3mcwLM-l5k

    Ultima (Apple II): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IPqUe6Ohn2A

    Wizardry (Apple II): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dJhMpPnnXMo

    (Ethan) Temple of Apshai (TRS 80) - The Quest Log: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HiMtY5BxdM0

    TCW 114 - The Wizards of Sir-Tech: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/the-wizards-of-sir-tech/

    TCW 115 - The Return of the Sdraziw of Sir-Tech: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/the-return-of-the-sdraziw-of-sir-tech/

    Escape (Apple II): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0nvh78Dqfkg

    Panorama Toh: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v4t6A9C31h0

    TCW 157 - Final Fantasy's Tale: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/final-fantasy-s-tale/

    New episodes are on the 1st and 15th of every month!

    TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com

    Twitter: @tcwpodcast

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds

    Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com

    Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1

    Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode

    Outro Music: RoleMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love

    Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


    D&D & Video Games 2E Dec 01, 2024
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 223 - D&D & Video Games 2E

    In the second part of our exploration of Dungeons & Dragons and its connection to video games, we examine the game’s refinement and rise in popularity. D&D was a groundbreaking experience, brought to life through Gary Gygax’s collaboration with others, particularly Dave Arneson, who developed many of its foundational concepts. The game evolved from miniature wargaming focused on medieval combat, with Tolkien-inspired high fantasy elements added later as an afterthought. These fantasy rules closely resembled those of Rules for Middle Earth but weren’t universally embraced, as some players preferred the realism of traditional wargaming, making it challenging to satisfy both audiences. We also delve into the well-known controversy between Gygax and Arneson and the creation of the Blackmoor campaign setting. We explore how TSR released the original box set and then evolved it into AD&D. Additionally, we examine how RPGs began to take off as a whole new type of game that people could play. Finally, we look at how D&D became embroiled in the cultural backlash of the 1980s "Satanic Panic."

    Transcript: https://www.theycreateworlds.com/transcripts/tcw223

    Livestream 2024 Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahP86-2H8lc

    Playing at the World - Jon Peterson (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/3YokLZC

    The Elusive Shift - Jon Peterson (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/3C8cHVq

    Game Wizards - Jon Peterson (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/48uCtzi

    Leonard Nimoy The Ballad of Bilbo Baggins Full Album Version: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuQbus0xfhk

    Playing at the World - Rules for Middle Earth: https://playingattheworld.blogspot.com/2016/01/a-precursor-to-chainmail-fantasy.html

    Knights of the Dinner Table: https://kenzerco.com/

    Bunnies & Burrows: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bunnies_%26_Burrows

    Tunnels & Trolls: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tunnels_%26_Trolls

    James Dallas Egbert III: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Dallas_Egbert_III

    Chief Wiggum - It Almost Looks Like an Arrow: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Gb5k0iOBdsU

    Bake him away Toys!: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LBOvfN2Y4oo

    Mazes & Monsters Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FLi422rkUIY

    NYT - D&D: Satanic Panic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ATUpSPj0x-c

    D&D Cartoon Lore Explored: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l9lZxOMMufM

    Matel D&D Handheld Game: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uY2OI7sVHjQ

    Matel D&D Electronic Labyrinth: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=STU1I_x0-so

    Advanced Dungeons & Dragons (Intellivision): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8MDVwAXVJ3w

    [Adult Themes] Dark Dungeons Comic: https://www.chick.com/products/tract?stk=0046

    [Some Adult Themes] CBS - What was the Satanic Panic?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=plEImKEIRm8

    (BADD) Bothered About Dungeons & Dragons: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D7Ies6NVAeA

    New episodes are on the 1st and 15th of every month!

    TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com

    Twitter: @tcwpodcast

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds

    Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com

    Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1

    Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode

    Outro Music: RoleMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love

    Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


    D&D & Video Games 1E Nov 15, 2024
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 222 - D&D & Video Games 1E

    In the first part of this series, we explore the various influences leading to the creation of Dungeons & Dragons. This episode is an edited version of our livestream, delving into the rise in popularity of war games, board games, and miniatures. Avalon Hill, a major company in this field, published The General magazine, which helped players connect for games. Through opponent-wanted ads resembling today’s unmoderated forums and the discovery of games like Kriegsspiel and Stratego, we witness the evolution of elements that would eventually lead to the early role-playing game (RPG).

    Livestream 2024 Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ahP86-2H8lc

    Playing at the World - Jon Peterson (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/3YokLZC

    The Elusive Shift - Jon Peterson (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/3C8cHVq

    Game Wizards - Jon Peterson (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/48uCtzi

    Afrika Korps: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uHOtUG4JvlQ

    SGS Afrika Korps: https://store.steampowered.com/app/1266640/SGS_Afrika_Korps/

    Gettysburg: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l7Cw6nzrPgw

    The General Magazine: https://www.vftt.co.uk/ah_mags.asp?ProdID=PDF_Gen

    What is Kriegsspiel?: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKVeR4n-u1w

    Chancellorsville: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LmJjNI4CO70

    Computer Chronicles Revisited: https://www.smoliva.blog/

    Strategos: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Strategos_(game)

    Secrets of Blackmore on Amazon Prime Video (Affiliate Link): https://amzn.to/4fsUSyA

    How to Play DIPLOMACY: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l53oL0ptt7k

    Yes Mr Ford: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A0-AD3bFjF8

    Siege of Bodenburg: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Siege_of_Bodenburg

    New episodes are on the 1st and 15th of every month!

    TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com

    Twitter: @tcwpodcast

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds - Save 30% by signing up through the website and not the iOS App!

    Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com

    Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1

    Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode

    Outro Music: RoleMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love

    Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


    North to Hellgate London Nov 01, 2024
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 221 - North to Hellgate London

    In a pseudo part three of our look at Condor and Blizzard North, we explore the troubles the company faced after a year and a half of crunch. David, Max, and Eric were all burned out along with the rest of the staff. David was going through a divorce and had trouble putting his heart into figuring out what the next game would be. Due to lack of leadership and a proper chain of command, many employees felt frustrated switching games over and over. At the same time, the expansion, Lord of Destruction, was completed after a year of development with no crunch. Through a combination of bad corporate structure, not empowering middle management, factionalism, and troubles with Blizzard's corporate owners being bought and sold amid their own scandals, David, Eric, Max, and Bill Roper from Blizzard South went on to form Flagship Studios and work on Hellgate: London. Unfortunately, the game was not well received due to expectations exceeding the financial and technical hurdles that needed to be overcome. There is a lot more to this story, so prepare yourself as we leave one hell for another!

    Thor - Game Studio Gambles: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/NLb9-DPspgA

    Thor - Email Mike: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/1ilUpXkGxbo

    Karateka: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wKqk9kosCs4

    Dale Carnegie - How to Win Friends and Influence People: https://www.amazon.com/How-Win-Friends-Influence-People/dp/0671027034

    Flagship Studios: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flagship_Studios

    Fate Longplay: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XGH577lznLk&list=PL112CEBA37FF962EE

    Mythos Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2fEsOrRvZ58

    Hellgate London E3 2005 Cinematic: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5xG9puQZJ1c

    Hellgate London E3 Bill Roper Interview: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gh1EQhHQPbQ

    US/China WOW Model Differences: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dtI2GcUPEFQ

    Hellgate London Gameplay: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uiKbGoiIHqo

    New episodes are on the 1st and 15th of every month!

    TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com

    Twitter: @tcwpodcast

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds - Sign up through the website not the iOS App!

    Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com

    Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1

    Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode

    Outro Music: RoleMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love

    Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


    Diablo 2 Oct 15, 2024
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 220 - Diablo 2

    We continue exploring the Diablo franchise with Diablo 2 and the journey of the team at Blizzard North. This episode covers the history of the Hellfire expansion for Diablo 1 and how it came to be developed by Sierra Online. A directive was issued for Blizzard North to focus on creating Diablo 2. The team aimed not just to create a bigger dungeon but to expand the game’s overall scope. However, the development of Diablo 2 faced challenges like feature creep, excessive gaming, and the absence of a game design document. These issues led to a year and a half of crunch time to complete the game. Despite these difficulties, Diablo 2 was released to phenomenal success.

    Hellfire Monk Playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YJlxnFfxRM4

    David Brevik on Diablo Hellfire: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=H4bDFgcuH-I

    Warcraft Adventures - Lord of the Clans (Lets Play): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f7JZu__7KTs

    Thor - Overworked % Amazon Game Studios: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/IVdaysrIS74

    Thor - Blizzard Working Conditions: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/B2mqnuRalYA

    Thor - Blizzard Pay: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/a8aumvAq5gM

    Thor - Value vs Income from a Job: https://www.youtube.com/shorts/8s3wa5kL6RY

    TCW 054 - Blizzard - Vikings and WarCraft: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/blizzard-vikings-and-warcraft/

    TCW 055 - Blizzard - Hellfire and The World… of WarCraft: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/blizzard-hellfire-and-the-world%E2%80%A6-of-warcraft/

    Diablo II from 2000: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=g_MoFDWJees

    Diablo II LOD Playthrough: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sM7gA_xD7vE

    Original StarCraft Trailer: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TAXDv--grUE

    Diablo II TV Commercial (Its Everywhere): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZzBp9ECiodc

    Diablo II TV Commercial (Evil Has Survived): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-RvRK5qf6Lc

    TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com

    Twitter: @tcwpodcast

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds

    Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com

    Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1

    Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode

    Outro Music: RoleMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love

    Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


    Diablo 1 Oct 01, 2024
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 219 - Diablo 1

    We explore the monumental game Diablo! Initially a collaborative effort between David Brevik, Erich Schaefer, and Max Schaefer, Diablo brought together elements from games like X-Com, Angband, and surprisingly NHL '94. The trio formed the company Condor, producing NFL games and a Street Fighter clone called Justice League Task Force for the SEGA Genesis. At CES, they discovered another company developing the SNES port of Justice League, Blizzard Entertainment. Through a series of fortuitous events, Condor was acquired by Davidson & Associates and rebranded as Blizzard North. Join us as we explore the wild history of Diablo and its impact on shaping how we play video games today!

    Play Diabo 1 Web Shareware Version: https://d07riv.github.io/diabloweb/

    It was the best of times it was the blurst of times: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=no_elVGGgW8

    Moria (Plato Emulator): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zvqgKKXAFI

    Angband: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nSiX_aoUn5s

    Stay a While and Listen (2 Book Series): https://www.amazon.com/dp/B087JF24VG?binding=kindle_edition

    Gordo 106 (AGDQ): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XwqlNeT9oTE

    Three Days of the Condor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mU8tQTNlPAM

    Iguana Entertainment: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iguana_Entertainment

    MC Chris Kingdom Hearts 2 & Resident Evil 4 (EXPLICIT): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HZsDUSxK5Fs

    NHL '94: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShqgmvGrxfM

    X-COM UFO Defense: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZJAFG0rjo0

    The Digital Antiquarian - Diablo: https://www.filfre.net/2023/07/diablo/

    Diablo 1 Original Soundtrack: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XcKmaLP-sQM

    Justice League Task Force (Genesis): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9hNrLiRxBE4

    Justice League Task Force (SNES): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QulgjKAsRaA

    TCW 054 - Blizzard: Vikings and WarCraft: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/blizzard-vikings-and-warcraft/

    TCW 055 - Blizzard: Hellfire and The World… of WarCraft: https://podcast.theycreateworlds.com/e/blizzard-hellfire-and-the-world%E2%80%A6-of-warcraft/

    David Brevik - Making Diablo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LI_CXw4x61E

    Diablo 1 - The Sin War: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UWXozMHrxrM

    Diablo 1 All Cutscenes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0aMkkf8-i-U

    Kali (Software): https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kali_(software)

    New episodes are on the 1st and 15th of every month!

    TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com

    Twitter: @tcwpodcast

    Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds

    Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com

    Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1

    Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode

    Outro Music: RolemMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love

    Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/


    The 100 Games Redux - The Revival Sep 15, 2024
    Show notes

    TCW Podcast Episode 218 - The 100 Games Redux - The Revival We’re back to revisit the 100 most influential games, this time with your feedback! We’ve made many changes to the list and even brought back some of the games that were previously cut. A huge thank you to everyone who wrote in, left a comment on YouTube, or reached out to us in other ways. Although we couldn’t read every single comment, we’ve carefully considered all the feedback and appreciate everyone for sharing their thoughts! Many of the changes we made were influenced by your input. So sit back, relax, and join us as we dive into the exciting world of the 100 most influential games! Live Stream for 2024 will be October 12th at 13:00 (18:00 GMT)! Simpsons Barney - 'It Begins!': https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Johmlmq-dRU The Marshmallow Test: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4L-n8Z7G0ic CoD4 - Modern Warfare - How it change a Genre Forever: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FXD5_7wqr1U Meet the Spy (Explicit): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OR4N5OhcY9s Malibu Stacy Hat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DaOgZwk9rN8 Game Theory (Roblox Doors): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=65-STzRJCho Moria (Description): http://crpgaddict.blogspot.com/2013/11/game-121-moria-1975.html The Revised list of Games: --Added-- Moria (Plato Emulator): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nxXW_8rcD0k Zork I (PC): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xzUagi41Wo0 (Changed) -- Ultima (III - Exodus): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XFHpuc4yqzk Jet Set Willy (ZX Spectrum): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=94Ywx6uVn9E Gauntlet (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fLnkCAFihqA Double Dragon (Arcade): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pfZz-1e-dUQ (Changed) -- Super Metroid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9tufNHthJE Diablo II Remastered Beginner Guide: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbXpwdUv3HE Final Fantasy VII: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D6-lbtqQ7oY Unreal Tournament: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JfDBNQs0P6A Warcraft III - Reign of Chaos (Human Campaign): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=53Ot4lq6YsY Roblox (Evolution from 2004-2024): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qDf0gZhZH5E Alien Hominid: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2W5VHApFkG4 Call Of Duty 4: Modern Warfare: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Sr7GqRRrT_Q Team Fortress 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jP8THCntY9Y Happy Farms (Farmville BETA Video): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bpPEXNtz_TY Demon's Souls: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_ltc3Q9jo-4 Angry Birds: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aiiQ8btusrs Super Meat Boy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=izXj61XDVNE --- (Restored) -- King's Quest: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r0TLhR51uGY (Restored) -- Baldur's Gate: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WYOH5PmoaE (Restored) -- Parappa the Rapper: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IbYdRZ8FiuA (Restored) -- Resident Evil:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=moW4wLlZnHk --- Breakout: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hW7Sg5pXAok Empire (Plato): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qodf2AjrEQo Computer Space: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=b3BQsCCwo8w Gran Trak 10: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uYEcDpBLDpc Star Trek: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e6f9_9kzuzk Table Tennis (Odyssey): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfmL6l128JU Defender: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gss3lxeqCok Dragon's Lair: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C-dg4J9_nes Heiankyo Alien (Game Boy): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vY3qVBkIu74 Mortal Kombat: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7F82XAvCuVc One on One (c64): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=URobcuTcBFU Outrun: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ELUl-cAtUIE Pac-Man: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dScq4P5gn4A Pole Position: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FFs1Xc82Q0U Robotron 2084: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l800GL6NQPY Scramble: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Vc-RIkpk40 Street Fighter 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xI284D4y1q4 Xevious: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VpyFHvPizYM Metal Gear: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ehlAMTh42Ko Prince of Persia: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DqCxHlEIrlM Sonic the Hedgehog: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JqQYDLcvkBc Star Raiders: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_VDM8nC9sM Super Mario Kart: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=AlAmXXNz5ac Wing Commander: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mfRvCSBD4q0 Adventure 2600: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LQZDRELOqoI Legend of Zelda: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6ADhznw1zhc Maniac Mansion: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L7oUArcVis0 Portopia Serial Murder Case: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcQhnJxP7qU DikuMUD: https://dikumud.com/ Maple Story: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8_0hm9Xj5dQ Rogue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=riN2FDtPCnw Tower of Druaga: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XCCGIP4SifE Ultima IV: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bHfAE5tXHv4 Wizardry: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zYLn_ij5G10 World of Warcraft: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-vlVQYjkCDM Dune 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gOscXf0Fpmk Fire Emblem: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lp2NqY3M6fI StarCraft: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-j3X3EuCf98 ARMA 2: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=97wFTd2lW34 Battlefield 1942: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5gc2AJQLvcQ Half-Life: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JoV9o6b91Sc Halo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IX9ZyK5L3-A Kill Switch: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=i1zW5X0CwTs Medal of Honor: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6ivwknQN54 PUBG: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sctOYN2pMs4 Resident Evil 4: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eFuHLUuuzLI Gran Turismo: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XqlFs3s2JNM ICO: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPP41ZKtA0c Myst: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D30r0iRH73Q Shenmue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W8RpDgxAyKI System Shock: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xap7JLlROSQ Tomb Raider: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BltNSs9Vzdg Virtua Fighter: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vl895zXjfyQ Dance Dance Revolution:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jywza4So-eU Minecraft: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5oghqTROa7o Pokemon Red & Blue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OHHSQxn_IOY Shariki: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y8XKS7tLB8w Spacewar: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1EWQYAfuMYw Pong: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ut6Rh-rmGAo Colossal Cave Adventure: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bhFrWH0na0A Space Invaders: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1uSzmzZP1s8 MUD (Core MUD): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q-yhk0chxyk Donkey Kong: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pp2aMs38ERY Super Mario Bros.: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=87ViRBWz4-E Elite: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VJvdZWhNLiM Dragon Quest: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T5dalWuTitE Tetris: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VNbo1AGqKrI SimCity: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A54blk-ojA4 John Madden Football: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8EbPghLpK6c Civilization: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GE3t_WuoSwE Ultima Underworld: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ee4PUcpGSn8 Alone in the Dark: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9lWaQe8LPW0 Doom: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iFnOLFd_ByQ Quake: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbCHIYXBts0 Super Mario 64: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5SVLIRthpNc Ocarina of Time: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mF9CxAulk04 Grand Theft Auto 3: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8zoLurwbCHM --- New episodes are on the 1st and 15th of every month! TCW Email: feedback@theycreateworlds.com Twitter: @tcwpodcast Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/theycreateworlds - Please do not use the iOS App -- Save yourself the 30% Apple Tax! Alex's Video Game History Blog: http://videogamehistorian.wordpress.com Alex's book, published Dec 2019, is available at CRC Press and at major on-line retailers: http://bit.ly/TCWBOOK1 Intro Music: Josh Woodward - Airplane Mode - Music - "Airplane Mode" by Josh Woodward. Free download: http://joshwoodward.com/song/AirplaneMode Outro Music: RolemMusic - Bacterial Love: http://freemusicarchive.org/music/Rolemusic/Pop_Singles_Compilation_2014/01_rolemusic_-_bacterial_love Copyright: Attribution: http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/

    Full show notes at the publisher

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