Decades ago, adventure games represented the cutting edge of computer gaming. Oh sure, arcade games and console games had action and music and characters, but adventure games sent players on a journey, one with any number of possible endings—so long as you count "death" as an ending.
This week, we're looking back at King's Quest, perhaps the most famous/infamous example of the adventure genre for the sheer number of ways players could end up expiring. Push a rock? Dead. Go for a swim? Dead. Step on the wrong floorboard? You should be more careful! Bob Mackey safely occupies the hosting chair, joined by accomplished Sierra speedrunner OneShortEye and Retronauts patron Daniel Glass who requested this topic. Asking us to cover a topic without supporting us on Patreon? I have bad news...
Description: In the 18 years we've been putting out this little podcast, we've never produced a single episode wholly devoted to classic Sierra games. Well, that sin against listenerkind ends TODAY as we peer back 40 years in the past to discuss the monumentally important adventure game, King's Quest. Originally intended as a means to sell a platform that died shortly after its release, this interactive fairy tale unexpectedly went on to define Sierra and spawn many more Quests over the next decade-plus. On this episode, join Bob Mackey, patron Daniel Glass, and Sierra speedrunning correspondent (and Adventure Game Fan Fair affiliate) OneShortEye as the crew gathers to discuss the series that made this California developer synonymous with adventure—and frustration!
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As with all of the episodes Bob produces, this week’s cover art is by Nick Daniel. Check out his Twitter, or patronize his Patreon!