Classic Game Postmortem - Q*bert

Explore the fascinating history and development of the iconic arcade game Q*bert in this 2022 GDC session presented by designer and programmer Warren Davis. Delve into the creative process, technical challenges, and behind-the-scenes stories that shaped this classic title. Learn about the hardware limitations, programming concerns, and innovative solutions that brought the game to life. Discover the origins of the game's unique pyramid structure, collision detection system, and memorable sound effects. Follow the journey from initial concept to location testing, and uncover post-release issues and secrets. Gain insights into the game industry of the early 1980s, including job acquisition, naming conventions, and press relations. This comprehensive talk offers a rare glimpse into the creation of a beloved video game that left an indelible mark on popular culture.

Intro
History
Getting a Job
Hardware
Pyramid
Programming Concerns
Collision Detection
Bensonville
Dave Thiel
Code
Naming
The Name
Knocker
Location Testing
PostRelease Problems
The Secret
The Press