02 Sep 2001; Matt Hoy and Dennis G. Jerz, eds. From ZYZZYNews 20
Scott Adams, author of the first commercial computer game ("Adventureland," 1978), leads a lively discussion on narrative, copyright, and violence. He also describes his first night playing EverQuest.  He visited the University of Wisconsin--Eau Claire English Festival, on 03 May 2001.  This website offers full-text transcripts and audio downloads of a 2-hr panel.

Table of Contents

1. Brief History of Interactive Fiction   
   Dennis G. Jerz offers a brief history of narrative gaming, and discusses how game development affects electronic storytelling.  
2. Scott Adams Speaks   
   Scott plays "Adventureland" with the audience, describes the technical restrictions on computers in the late 70s, and explains the value of user-testing interactive works.
3. Panelists; Audience Q and A   
   Scott discusses "Half-Life," "Deus Ex," "EverQuest," and "Ultima Online."
   • Panelist Jake Okun on commercial first-person shooters
   • Parser fun with the "Adventureland" bear
   • Panelist Amanda Fullan on being a newbie IF author
   • Panelist David Shih on "Pyramids of Doom" (1981 or 1982)
   • Scott gives his take on violence, Napster and copyright
4. Audience Q and A (Cont'd.)   
   The social element of gaming, vs. the story-and-puzzle elements. Scott predicts that, within 5 years, game-creation utilities will simplify designing. Jake on game mods. More on non-linear storytelling. Character development in "Daggerfall." The assassination of Lord British on "Ultima." The mid-1990s IF renaissance. "The Longest Journey." Selling game items for real money.
5. Site Credits

03 May 2001 -- panel took place

Site credits