In the realm of PC gaming, few names resonate as profoundly as Tarn Adams, the co-founder of Bay 12 Games. His journey into the world of gaming began in a rather whimsical fashion, as he recalls his early years filled with a “haze of learning BASIC.” The nostalgia of his childhood is palpable as he reminisces about the days of MS-DOS and the TRS-80, where he first encountered ASCII games and the likes of Rogue. These formative experiences laid the groundwork for what would eventually become a groundbreaking career in game development.
Adams is perhaps best known for co-creating Dwarf Fortress, a fantasy colony simulation that has captivated players since its release in 2006. This year marks a significant milestone, as the game celebrates its 20th anniversary, solidifying its status as one of the most ambitious and beloved titles in the PC gaming landscape.
What was the previous game you played, and is it still installed?
Recently, Adams has been engrossed in The Planet Crafter, a terraforming game that invites players to reshape an alien world. He fondly recalls his earlier encounters with the game during its early access phase, where he reached a point of frustration due to the lack of content. Now that the game has evolved past its initial version, he finds himself delighted to have finally unlocked the elusive frogs, bringing him closer to completing his terraforming journey.
His gaming interests are eclectic, as he juggles several outpost-themed games, including Terraforming Titans and Plan B: Terraform. Adams’ penchant for exploration extends beyond modern titles, as he fondly remembers Beast 1984, a game that predates even Minecraft, allowing players to construct their own environments while navigating the challenges posed by quirky creatures.
What is the highest number of hours you have in any given game, according to Steam?
When it comes to gaming hours, Adams’s dedication is evident in his extensive playtime for Factorio, where he has logged an impressive 1,454.5 hours. This factory-building simulation has become a seasonal ritual for him, particularly during winter months. The game has taken on a deeper significance following personal loss, providing a comforting escape during challenging times.
What game will you never, ever uninstall?
While Adams grapples with the emotional weight of his gaming habits, he admits that he doesn’t have a single game he could never uninstall. Instead, he experiences phases of engagement with different titles. Caves of Qud frequently resurfaces in his gaming repertoire, offering a unique blend of role-playing elements that keep him coming back for more.
What’s a piece of non-gaming software installed on your PC that you simply couldn’t live without?
Beyond gaming, Adams finds solace in Ableton, a music sequencer that has been a steadfast companion on his computer for years. He enjoys crafting melodies and experimenting with instrumentation, even if he hasn’t fully mastered the intricacies of sound design. The creative outlet provides a refreshing balance to his gaming endeavors.
How tidy is your desktop screen?
As for his digital workspace, Adams describes his desktop as being about half full, populated with various folders and .txt files that often lack organization. He humorously notes the existence of a folder titled ‘Last Desktop,’ which serves as a nostalgic gateway back to his BASIC games from the ’80s. This blend of creativity and chaos reflects the multifaceted nature of a developer who has spent decades shaping the gaming landscape.
