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The entire source code for a huge array of Infocom text adventures and interactive stories is now available on Github, thanks to historian and archivist Jason Scott.Â

Chris Kerr, News Editor

April 16, 2019

1 Min Read

The entire source code for a huge array of Infocom text adventures and interactive stories is now available on Github, thanks to historian and archivist Jason Scott

There are 45 code repositories in total, spanning a variety of popular titles including The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy, Zork, Planetfall, Sorcerer, and Nord and Bert.

It's notable news for those interested in preserving and safeguarding video game history, and Scott hopes the repositories will serve as an educational time-capsule for game developers and fans alike. 

Although the code itself is written in ZIL (Zork Implementation Language), which will probably seem foreign to most, Scott has posted a handy instruction manual that should help make it more legible.

The only downside to the story is that Activision, which purchased Infocom in 1986, still owns the company IP, meaning it could eventually clamp down and halt Scott's preservation efforts.  

About the Author(s)

Chris Kerr

News Editor, GameDeveloper.com

Game Developer news editor Chris Kerr is an award-winning journalist and reporter with over a decade of experience in the game industry. His byline has appeared in notable print and digital publications including Edge, Stuff, Wireframe, International Business Times, and PocketGamer.biz. Throughout his career, Chris has covered major industry events including GDC, PAX Australia, Gamescom, Paris Games Week, and Develop Brighton. He has featured on the judging panel at The Develop Star Awards on multiple occasions and appeared on BBC Radio 5 Live to discuss breaking news.

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