Heroes of Stalingrad. My Thoughts on Release.

After about a quarter-gillion years in development, Lock 'nLoad: Heroes of Stalingrad, the PC game, has been released. I want to use the occasion to share a few thoughts with everyone.

First off, making a computer game is difficult. Damn difficult. I've written novels, designed board games, and raised three daughters. Creating Heroes of Stalingrad ranks right up there. If both Tom (the programmer) and I had been full time on the game, it might have been easier. However, I work full weeks designing board games as well as keeping the company that publishes them moving forward. By the same token, Tom also has several other irons in the fire. Hence the game took longer than we would have liked.

Secondly, nothing beats experience. I consider myself video and computer game fluent. I wrote full time in the industry for six years before I founded Lock 'n Load Publishing, but nothing prepares you for creating a computer game better than creating a computer game. We were lucky to have Matrix's Erik Rutens join the team as producer, and bring the game home. His experience was invaluable.

Finally, I'm getting older. I notice every wrinkle on my face, every pound of fat on my waist. Not everyone else does, but I do. By the same token, I know every flaw in Heroes of Stalingrad. That knowledge jades my view of the game. If, however, I step back, look at the game with fresh eyes, I realize those eyes are proud. I'm proud of the game, especially proud of, and happy with, the work Tom Proudfoot put into the game, and I think you guys and gals will like it. I'm sure you'll let me know either way.

See you tomorrow.