This episode explores the fascinating journey of Jordan Mechner as he creates the iconic video game Prince of Persia, based on his published journals.●The episode begins in 1985, with Mechner graduating from Yale and facing a pivotal career decision: pursue screenwriting or create another computer game1. Despite the success of his first game, Karateka, Mechner grapples with self-doubt, the allure of Hollywood, and the uncertain future of the Apple II gaming industry23.●Listeners will get an inside look at the challenges of game development in the 80s: from securing a publisher and negotiating royalties to the technical limitations of the Apple II456. Mechner's journals reveal his creative process, his struggles with coding and design, and the invaluable input of friends and colleagues78910.●The episode highlights Mechner's dedication to his craft. He meticulously videotapes his brother's movements for character animation and spends countless hours refining the game's swordfighting mechanics511. His passion for the project shines through, even as he faces setbacks and doubts1112.●As the game nears completion, Mechner navigates the world of marketing, packaging, and platform conversions, offering a glimpse into the business side of the gaming industry131415. The episode captures the excitement and anticipation surrounding Prince of Persia's release, with everyone predicting a smash hit1617.●The episode concludes with the game's launch and early reception, leaving listeners with a sense of the legacy of Prince of Persia and its impact on the gaming landscape. We also get a glimpse into Mechner's future aspirations, including his continued interest in filmmaking and his ideas for a potential sequel1819.
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This episode explores the fascinating journey of Jordan Mechner as he creates the iconic video game Prince of Persia, based on his published journals.●The episode begins in 1985, with Mechner graduating from Yale and facing a pivotal career decision: pursue screenwriting or create another computer game1. Despite the success of his first game, Karateka, Mechner grapples with self-doubt, the allure of Hollywood, and the uncertain future of the Apple II gaming industry23.●Listeners will get an inside look at the challenges of game development in the 80s: from securing a publisher and negotiating royalties to the technical limitations of the Apple II456. Mechner's journals reveal his creative process, his struggles with coding and design, and the invaluable input of friends and colleagues78910.●The episode highlights Mechner's dedication to his craft. He meticulously videotapes his brother's movements for character animation and spends countless hours refining the game's swordfighting mechanics511. His passion for the project shines through, even as he faces setbacks and doubts1112.●As the game nears completion, Mechner navigates the world of marketing, packaging, and platform conversions, offering a glimpse into the business side of the gaming industry131415. The episode captures the excitement and anticipation surrounding Prince of Persia's release, with everyone predicting a smash hit1617.●The episode concludes with the game's launch and early reception, leaving listeners with a sense of the legacy of Prince of Persia and its impact on the gaming landscape. We also get a glimpse into Mechner's future aspirations, including his continued interest in filmmaking and his ideas for a potential sequel1819.
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