Broderbund

Broderbund was an American video game publisher and software developer founded in 1980 by Doug and Gary Carlston. The company became one of the most influential publishers of the 1980s and 1990s, known for its work in educational software, productivity tools, and classic PC games. Although Broderbund was acquired by SoftKey in 1998, its legacy continues through various brands and franchises.

History and Growth

Broderbund started as a small software company focused on personal computing. Over the years, it expanded into video games, educational software, and productivity tools, becoming a dominant force in the industry.

Key milestones in its history include:

• 1980 – Founded by Doug and Gary Carlston in Eugene, Oregon.
• 1983 – Released Lode Runner, one of the earliest puzzle-platformers.
• 1985 – Published Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego?, launching a major educational franchise.
• 1989 – Released Prince of Persia, a groundbreaking cinematic platformer.
• 1993 – Published Myst, one of the best-selling PC games of all time.
• 1998 – Acquired by SoftKey and dissolved, with its brands continuing under The Learning Company.

Notable Games

Broderbund published and developed numerous influential titles across different genres. Some of its most recognized games include:

• Lode Runner – A puzzle-platformer that became a classic.
• Where in the World is Carmen Sandiego? – An educational game series focused on geography.
• Prince of Persia – A cinematic platformer known for its fluid animation.
• Myst – A revolutionary adventure game with pre-rendered environments.
• Choplifter – A side-scrolling action game featuring rescue missions.
• The Ancient Art of War – One of the earliest real-time strategy games.

Publishing Strategy and Development Approach

Broderbund focused on delivering innovative software across multiple categories. Some key aspects of its approach included:

• Developing educational games that blended learning with entertainment.
• Publishing productivity tools like The Print Shop and Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing.
• Supporting independent developers and licensing third-party software.
• Expanding into multimedia and CD-ROM-based experiences.

Recent Developments

Although Broderbund no longer exists as an independent company, its legacy continues through various brands and franchises. Some of its latest developments include:

• The Print Shop and Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing are still published under the Broderbund name.
• Encore, Inc. distributes software under the revived Broderbund brand.
• Classic Broderbund games remain available through digital storefronts.

Industry Impact and Legacy

Broderbund remains one of the most influential publishers in gaming history, known for its contributions to educational software, productivity tools, and classic PC games. Although the company was dissolved, its franchises and software continue to shape the industry.

Its legacy will likely endure through continued re-releases, remasters, and adaptations of its most iconic titles.