August 2nd, 2024

Tex Murphy and the Coming of the DVD (A Shaggy-Dog Story)

The introduction of DVDs in the late 1990s revolutionized gaming and entertainment, enhancing video and audio quality, benefiting series like Tex Murphy, and transforming media consumption through technological innovation.

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Tex Murphy and the Coming of the DVD (A Shaggy-Dog Story)

players had been sold in the U.S., and by 1999, DVD sales had surpassed VHS. The introduction of DVDs revolutionized the gaming and entertainment industries, allowing for higher quality video and audio, which was crucial for interactive movies like Tex Murphy. The Tex Murphy series, particularly with titles like "Under a Killing Moon" and "The Pandora Directive," benefited from this technological advancement, as the new format allowed for more extensive and higher-quality content. Despite initial struggles in the market, the series found a niche audience, and the advent of DVDs provided a lifeline for its continued existence. The collaboration between major tech companies to establish a single DVD standard was pivotal, ensuring compatibility and widespread adoption. This shift not only impacted gaming but also transformed how movies were consumed, marking a significant transition in digital media. The success of DVDs ultimately underscored the importance of technological innovation in shaping entertainment, illustrating how formats evolve to meet consumer demands and industry needs.

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By @paulryanrogers - 7 months
Really enjoyed the Tex games. Interesting to hear how Overseer got made. Sad they were so heavily overshadowed by sports games and then consoles.

Beneath a Killing Moon was so ahead of its time. Really impressive 3D graphics before accelerator cards came along. And such a fun, campy story.