In the realm of PC gaming, few figures shine as brightly as Stephen Kick, co-founder of Nightdive Studios. His journey began, like many of his peers, with a visit to a friend’s house where the allure of id Software’s Wolfenstein 3D captivated him. “I went over to a friend’s house and they had their home computer, the big bulky white CRT,” he recalls. “I just remember being blown away by those ‘realistic’ sound effects and amazing 3D ultra-realistic graphics … it was an awakening of sorts.” Today, Kick stands as a dedicated curator of PC gaming’s golden age, leading Nightdive in the revival of classics such as Doom, Quake, and System Shock 2. The studio’s recent remake of System Shock has garnered critical acclaim, a testament to the team’s commitment to preserving gaming history.
Kick’s passion extends beyond mere remastering; he actively seeks collaboration with the community. “If you’ve got a mod that you’ve put a lot of your work into, and a lot of your heart for a classic game that hasn’t been remastered yet, come talk to us,” he invites, highlighting the studio’s collaborative spirit. His own journey into game development was sparked by a competition hosted by Valve for their upcoming title, Dota 2. “I saw that Valve was having a competition… I thought, ‘Oh, this is really cool. Maybe if I win, I can make some extra money.’” Although he didn’t win, the experience ignited a lasting passion for gaming that has since become a family affair.
What is the oldest game (by release date) currently installed on your PC?
Kick’s nostalgia is palpable when he mentions Doom and Doom II, games that have remained steadfast on his system. “It’s almost like a time machine,” he muses. “You go and you play it, and suddenly you’re in front of the beige beauty again.” These titles not only represent a piece of gaming history but also serve as a reminder of simpler times.
What is the highest number of hours you have in any given game, according to Steam?
With a staggering 8,544 hours logged in Dota 2, Kick’s dedication is evident. “I just recently got my 5,000th win,” he shares, reflecting on how the game has woven itself into the fabric of his family life. “We hang out, we have dinner, he goes to bed, and then my wife and I, we hop on and play a couple of games of Dota before bedtime.” The game’s fast-paced nature offers a welcome escape from daily responsibilities, allowing him to focus entirely on strategy and teamwork.
What game will you never, ever uninstall?
While Kick admits to uninstalling Dota at times due to its competitive nature affecting his mood, he acknowledges its significant role in his personal growth. “I feel like I’ve made leaps and strides personally because of this game,” he explains. “It’s helped me communicate a lot better. I think it’s made me a better leader.” He also fondly recalls Plants vs. Zombies, a game that has brought joy to his family, teaching strategy while providing hours of fun.
What’s a piece of non-gaming software installed on your PC that you simply couldn’t live without?
Kick’s creative pursuits extend beyond gaming, with Photoshop being an indispensable tool in his arsenal. “I create a lot of artwork just on my own, just for fun,” he notes, often using a Cintiq to bring his artistic visions to life. His unique art style, characterized by bold lines and vibrant colors, reflects his passion for creativity outside of the gaming realm.
How tidy is your desktop screen?
When it comes to organization, Kick maintains a tidy desktop. “I know where everything is at any given time,” he assures. While it may be getting a bit hectic, he has a system in place that allows him to navigate his workspace efficiently. “There’ll be a point where I’ll go ‘OK, well, I’m gonna spend the next hour copy and pasting and putting things where they belong,'” he explains, demonstrating a methodical approach to maintaining order amidst the creative chaos.
