From Infocom to 80 Days: An oral history of text games and interactive fiction
How did interactive fiction begin?
Interactive fiction began in the 1970s with the creation of Colossal Cave Adventure, also known as Adventure, by Will Crowther1. The text game was based on Crowther's experiences in Kentucky's Mammoth Cave, and players would input two-word commands to navigate and solve puzzles. In 1977, Don Woods released his own version of Adventure, and as home computers became more accessible, interactive fiction reached a wider audience.
How is interactive fiction linked to the evolution of computers?
Interactive fiction has been linked to the evolution of computers since its inception in the 1970s. Early text-based games like Colossal Cave Adventure emerged as computer technology advanced, allowing for more complex and immersive storytelling experiences. As computers became more accessible to the general public, interactive fiction gained a wider audience and helped shape the development of video games and digital storytelling. Today, the genre continues to evolve alongside advancements in computing technology.
What is interactive fiction?
Interactive fiction is a form of digital game where players use text commands to control characters and influence the environment, combining elements of video games, literature, and digital media2. Players navigate through a narrative by inputting commands, making choices, and solving puzzles, allowing them to actively engage with and shape the story.