7. In 25 years, what do you think society will remember about gaming in the late 20th century, and more importantly, what do you think society should remember?

Richard: I think they will look back and see what started out as a nerdy, mind wasting, anti-social activity that has grown and matured into a positive, compelling medium. Games 25 years from now will have the ability to be a great, positive, teaching, and socializing force. We can but hope that the demand is there for these great experiences.

8. If you or your company had to make one new year's resolution this year, what would it be and why?

Richard: Quit throwing away the years of invested heart, soul, and money by shipping games mere moments before they will be great.

9. Where will you be for the millennium, and what do you hope to be doing at midnight?

Richard: I will be here in Austin, Texas, snow skiing! We bought a large ice-crushing snow-making machine, and we are crushing more than 100 tons of ice (six 18-wheelers full) to make a large ski slope. Plus, we have many more fireworks than our usual party affairs, which have always been too much to begin with.

10. Far too often, our industry doesn't do enough to highlight up and coming designers and those who tirelessly work behind the scenes to bring games to life. Is there one person you think deserves more recognition? If so, introduce us to this person and tell us why you think he or she deserves acknowledgment.

Richard: Origin just had its yearly awards ceremony. At that time, we acknowledged Bill Randolph as our most valuable player for 1999. Bill was the lead programmer who took an Ultima IX team and code base that was in shambles and helped rebuild the team and project into a shape we are very proud of. Before Origin, he had an illustrious career with our brethren over at Westwood. He is a rare combination of true technical mastery, personal integrity, and fire-fighting generalship. I'm proud to be working beside him.

Next: Ron Gilbert