Official Review
"Revolution: The Quest For Game Development Greatness" is a captivating and insightful book that offers a deep dive into the history of Revolution Software, one of the pioneers of the adventure game genre. Written by Tony Warriner, co-founder of Revolution Software, this book provides a unique perspective on the company's journey through the ever-changing landscape of game development.
Key aspects of the book include:
- Historical Context:
- The book spans over 30 years of game development history, offering a rich narrative of Revolution Software's evolution.
- It provides a detailed account of the studio's early days and the development of iconic games like "Lure of the Temptress," "Beneath a Steel Sky," and the beloved "Broken Sword" series.
- Behind-the-Scenes Insights:
- Readers are treated to heartwarming stories of an underdog studio overcoming odds to pursue their passion for making video games.
- The book reveals fascinating anecdotes about the video game industry, including the challenges posed by one-sided publisher contracts and how internal politics can affect project development.
- Technical Details:
- For those interested in the technical side of game development, Warriner delves into coding aspects, discussing how certain engines and systems were created and utilized.
- The book covers the transition from 8-bit and 16-bit era development to more modern techniques.
- Personal Journey:
- Warriner shares his personal experiences, from his early days as a not-so-academic student to becoming a successful game developer.
- His narrative showcases the loyalty and strong convictions that drove his career at Revolution Software.
- Industry Challenges:
- The book doesn't shy away from discussing the difficulties faced by the studio, including project cancellations (like the "Good Cop Bad Cop" project) and the complexities of game preservation.
- An interesting revelation is the reason behind missing content in "Broken Sword: The Shadow of the Templars Director's Cut," attributed to improper archiving of the original game's build.
- Fan Appeal:
- For fans of Revolution Software, particularly "Broken Sword" enthusiasts, this book is a treasure trove of information and behind-the-scenes details.
- While it doesn't provide information on current or future projects (as Warriner left before the release of "Beyond a Steel Sky"), it offers a comprehensive look at the studio's legacy.
- Industry Insights:
- The book provides valuable insights into the video game industry, making it an interesting read even for those not familiar with Revolution Software's games.
- It highlights the challenges and triumphs of independent game development in a rapidly evolving industry.
- Collaborative Effort:
- The book's creation involved collaboration with others in the industry, including Martin Mulrooney, who edited and contributed to the project.
For fans of Revolution Software, adventure game enthusiasts, or anyone interested in the history of game development, this book is a must-read. It provides a rare, honest look into the world of game creation, filled with personal anecdotes, technical insights, and industry wisdom. The book not only tells the story of Revolution Software but also paints a vivid picture of the evolution of the gaming industry over three decades.
While some technical sections might be challenging for non-developers, the overall narrative remains engaging and accessible. The book successfully bridges the gap between industry insiders and gaming enthusiasts, offering something valuable for readers across the spectrum of gaming interest.
Revolution: The Quest For Game Development Greatness stands as an important contribution to gaming literature, offering a unique blend of personal storytelling, technical insight, and industry history. It's a compelling read that not only entertains but also educates, providing a deeper appreciation for the art and challenges of game development.
