In 1990, Origin Systems released Wing Commander, Chris Roberts’ groundbreaking space combat simulator that aimed to feel like a movie you could play. We trace Roberts’ path from teenage programmer on the BBC Micro to his time at Origin, where Times of Lore shaped his cinematic ambitions. The episode explores how Roberts taught himself 3D tricks, pitched Squadron, and assembled a small team to bring branching campaigns, cockpit chatter, and dynamic music to life. Our conversation highlights critic and fan praise for its spectacle, the rush of expansions and sequels, and its leap into full-motion video with Mark Hamill in Wing Commander III. We also follow Roberts beyond Origin, from Freelancer to Star Citizen. Join us as we dogfight, dive, and dream big through Wing Commander on today’s trip down Memory Card Lane.
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A Trip Down Memory Card Lane