Founder, Teacher @ Outscal | Land Jobs in the gaming industry | EA, Kixeye, DeNA, Junglee, D.E. Shaw
As a young jock and football player at Harvard, Trip Hawkins knew football would be his driving force. No wonder he left his athletic life to pursue the gaming industry only to build a video game on the same sport. After launching the Dr.J game, or the first-ever baseball video game under the E.A. Sports banner, Trip Hawkins awakened his childhood jock. Next, he set on to design a football video game with John Madden as its ambassador. Being a strategic thinker, Hawkins knew that a broad audience base was eventually growing who wanted authentic sports experiences via video games. They had to be more accurate simulations of the actual sport that would deliver excitement at the same time. However excited they were about the football video game idea, Hawkins realized they had to work with the forthcoming 8-bit technology. For a perfect simulation, Hawkins had to build a virtual yet authentic football game; where the offense is at the bottom while the defense is at the top. They had to lend a 3D effect to make it appear more accurate. Note: It was 1984, and the technology wasn't available. Hawkins decided to wait for a year which eventually came down to four. Next, they decided to approach John Madden to brand their company game. After meeting with the assistant and agent, Hawkins finally signed a deal with the Hall of Fame coach. The real struggle ensued when he traveled with Madden by train to the West. Hawkins carried a 60-page design file that contained every minute detail of the virtual football field and the 11-on-11 football team. Eventually, a few problems cropped up: ● The 8-bit machine couldn't possibly handle the workings of a football game. ● The 7-on-7 frame couldn't hold as many blockers and tacklers as required in the game. Despite the problems, Hawkins and his team relentlessly worked together to make that 8-bit Apple version. It was 1988, and they produced the game on an IBM machine. Leaving the spectators amused and receiving awards for Madden Football, E.A. Sports continued to soar higher. As of 2013, Madden Football accrued $4 billion in revenue! Dream of creating games of your own? Follow me at Mayank Grover #nfl #easports #gamedev #gamedesign #football
