Innovating Game Design and the Power of Memory

This chapter explores the ambitious planning behind the creation of a revolutionary video game following prior successes, focusing on innovative features like lighting control and multiplayer functionality. It also discusses the concept of hyperthymesia, detailing how this unique memory condition allows individuals to retain vivid details from their past, both enhancing and complicating their experiences. The interplay of groundbreaking game development and the subjective nature of memory forms the core of this enlightening discussion.

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Computer and video game legend John Romero (@romero) has designed and published more than 130 games since his first sale at the age of 16. A teenage programming prodigy, his major achievements include co-inventing a series of revolutionary computer games—DOOM, Quake, Wolfenstein 3-D, and Commander Keen—that launched the industry’s most popular genre, the first-person shooter.

The memoir DOOM GUY: Life in First Person is his first book.

Please enjoy!

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[07:39] Childhood.

[11:30] Aggressor Squadron.

[14:55] John’s first exposure to computers and coding.

[21:34] Early innovations in 3D gaming.

[26:01] The id Software team.

[28:00] Side-scrolling games.

[30:41] Developing 13 games in one year. How?

[37:28] Designing with movable and removable parts in mind.

[42:45] Warning the world of its inevitable DOOM.

[53:04] Hyperthymesia.

[59:49] Working on two games at once.

[1:02:34] When John realized DOOM would be a hit.