Can you remember a time when George Lucas did not have a hand or
two in the games industry? There was a time, long ago, when LucasArts did not exist, and Lucas was on top the world
preparing to release Return of the Jedi in theaters. It was a time, also, when Atari would soon dominate the
market.
Michael Rubin is currently on tour promoting Droidmaker, a book he wrote about George Lucas and Lucasfilms.
Mr. Rubin has graciously posted a chapter of his book
online for free (in pdf format), detailing the creation of the Lucasfilms Games Group (later LucasArts). It is a
fascinating read, covering topics such as the game Ballblazer and Warner Communications executive Manny
Gerard, and very well researched - a must for any fan of gaming history.
Do you think Peter Jackon's WETA might one day follow a similar path, creating a games division using their graphics skills for the console and PC market?
