I’m born and bred in Guildford, worked for a small independent computer shop in Guildford town centre called Ultima in the White Lion Walk shopping centre. Peter and a few other Bullfrog members such as Alex Trowers, Mike Mann, Sean Cooper and Glen Corps used to come in often to check out how their newly released games were doing. In my time there it was games such as Magic Carpet, Syndicate and Theme Park / Hospital which hit the shelves.. and I as well as the other staff spent most days playing them.. those and Doom lol Lot of fond memories and I found the Bullfrog crew to be a fun enjoyable bunch.. I even did a spot of games testing for them in one of Les Egders (who I met) mansions in Forest Green.. think he owned most of it including the pub! One lunch he opened the garage on the property and drove out one of the JCB taxis from the Stallone Judge Dredd movie :) # fun fact - Ultima (as well as one individual member Rob) is given a shout-out in the opening credits to Populous!
You have a really effective presentation style. Talking about a man as big as Peter Molyneux isn't easy - especially from the perspective of someone who is as obviously a fan as you are. But what I think carries it for me is your skill at foreshadowing, especially for those of us who, by accident or intent, followed this man's career as gamers. The time you take to let things dawn and let old memories take hold is effective - I really noticed it when you started talking about the lead-up to what Lionhead would do, because it reminded me of a conversation between my ex and I - she loved Black & White, I didn't - my gaming attention was on Populous II and Dungeon Keeper. At the time, we were kids, and didn't know that all of the games we were arguing about were from the same mind. Thank you.
Molyneux is fascinating because he isn't simply a con-man or a screwup. He is a complex combination of creative genius, con-man energy, charisma, and lack of self control. If his energy is channeled correctly, he creates games like Populous. If not, he creates games like Goddess. In other words: He is in *desperate* need of a strong, disciplined, business oriented counterpart who keeps him in check, lets him focus purely on creative stuff, and steps in when he even _thinks_ of going to the press and promising the moon. In some ways, it reminds me of how John Romero and John Carmack really needed each other. Just see what happened to Romero's Ion Storm studio when there was no Carmack to keep Romero in check.
@@dvdv7777 agreed in general, though early on at Bullfrog I think he was the boss as well as the game designer. I wish Peter would become a good developer again with the apparent ability to take great young talent under his wing and develop their ideas into great games. Sadly, I don't think Molyneux can return to those heady days.
The original documentary was my introduction to this channel (it was Kimble Justice then). Now I’ve watched everything you’ve done. The nostalgia your videos evoke is immense. Love them to bits.
@@matthewbanes6591 I was just searching for a Fable retrospective and got sucked into the World of Justice. I especially love the stuff about 90s gaming ... and sensible soccer.
That documentary was absolutely superb!!! It must have taken you ages to produce something so in depth and professional as that. First thing I've watched of yours, thank you very much for doing it.
Pete, it's okay to talk about game concepts. No one's angry that you want to talk about things you're considering for games or ideas you have. People are angry that you present those things as though they are *already in the game* and as though they are on lock. People are angry because you *lie* about the state of the game and what they can expect from the product you are asking them money for. All you have to do to avoid this shit is to say "we're thinking about" or "one of our ideas is" at the start, and BAM! Plausible deniability when it doesn't end up in the game. People can understanding that kind of thing. But when you say "You will be able to drop an acorn and see it grow over the course of the game" that is a promise, that is you telling people it *will* be that way. That's why people hate you now, not because you have a ton of ideas but because you _lie to them._
A lot of the features he promised were actually implemented into his games but had to be removed as they caused unexpected issues which they couldn't solve in time for the release date. Many of his games were release due to the pressure of the publishers even though they weren't fully finished. Peter is an artist and not a businessman. He has a vision but often can't execute his vision within the time frame given to him. Godus is the game where he really screwed up, especially with the lack of communication to the community and the supporters along with the move to make it a mobile game. There's just no excuse to not communicate with fans, community and supporters.
@@Hobbitstomper If he fucked anything up lets talk about his 5th symphony Fable. What ever TF fable 3 was, was a huge setback, dunno if it was out sourced or IP sold but that shit was a the start of a money grab IP with their dumbass knock off mobile app and a turd of a "pub game". It was an affront to the video game gods that blessed him with two actually fun games.
Of course nothing in this brilliant video is new to me as I've already watched your series on Molyneux, I still think he does deserve praise for all the pioneering work he did for video games.
It’s crazy isn’t it. He’s such a talented programmer and literally invented the god genre. Yet he sabotaged himself again and again. Is 22 cans even still running?
@@almurray2000 Well the latest news I saw on 22 cans is from a week ago and the headline says "Peter Molyneux's 22Cans hit with layoffs" so I guess it's technically still going but not doing great.
Yeah but he’s still a bullshitting bellend. Started with bullshitting for free Amigas and continues unabated to this day. And yup, populous was bloody brilliant.
Yeah as much as he was a pompous overambitious blowhard he spearheaded a lot of great games. Sadly all his BSing and inability to reign himself in caught up with him at 22cans. He killed his career, and sadly some of the collateral damage is he killed or at least tarnished the careers of talented people who had the misfortune to work with him.
Godus.... Is the Tombstone for Peter "Long Nose" Molyneux... A PC Game was Promised... A Mobile Game was delivered... And then it was thrown under the Bus... with the rest of Mr. Molyneux... Reputation... Bullfrog Games are timeless Classics and the greatest Amiga Portfolio of one Company.... Everything after that is a depressing Swansong... (Black & White still on my HD) Kudos for your Essay and the Walk Memory Lane... Cheers... be well, take care - Addendum 2:30:55 Miss him so much... as an honest Voice about the Gaming Industrie
Wow, I just played a little bit of Fable Anniversary Edition, then got the urge to watch your brilliant Molyneux documentary again and now you've uploaded a complete version which makes it very convenient for viewing. Thank you!
These games studio documentaries are SO BLOODY GOOD that I've watched them ALL multiple times! And some of these are games that I never even played at the time, some I'd never even heard about. But as I grew up during those Bedroom Coder times I find the whole subject truly fascinating. Thank you Kim for the incredible amount of time, research and effort that it must take to do these superb documentaries.
Stuck in a lockdown in Chengdu at the moment and watching gaming documentaries with a good pizza makes it easier to bear. Thanks for the great videos Kim 😎
I remember watching the original videos trying to pass the time during a difficult summer Ramadan a few years ago. I'm happy to see how much your channel's grown over the years. Cheers.
Interesting coincidence that you talk about this, this past week I was researching what is Ramadan since a friend that spent time working in Qatar came back saying it was difficult. What are the most difficult things about it in your opinion? Isn't it just a matter of waiting for the night to arrive to be able to eat again? There must be other things that no one ever talks about.
But overall I found (from what I was able to understand through youtube videos) Ramadan to be relatively "easy" to get through, I mean it sounds like "please don't make noise, don't harass other people and don't be an asshole to others otherwise you will face consequences"... It seems to me like simple basic Civic Moral Code of Conduct that everyone should be following already LOL
I started of really hating the accent, and ended up really liking it. Peter Molyneux will always be an inspiration for me, even after all of the fiasco of godus. He has always stood out to be the indie king. One that brings up young people, able to lead and design his crazy ideas into fruition. There isn't another like this guy or will ever be one again. Will be be able to make a come back though? I really doubt it. As you said it very well, he's a product of his time. Game development has far changed and old Moly is really a product of his time. It's sad, but if you really look back at it, the man's golden years were really bright. Really really bright. That what we should remember him for, and not just godus.
Thank you for doing this! This was one of my favorite series you did, so it's great to have it all in one place. Any plans to do the same for the series you did on Jack Trammiel?
This documentary made for a great listen at work. I had previously watched the series a few years back, but it was super convenient having all parts edited together like this.
oh please - Peter is on one level way above Murray, and Murray way above Howard. Howard is, statistically, not far off from average developer/publisher - they all lie all the time (when talking to people/PR/etc.).
My history with the Fable series... Fable 1 releases and I'm like, "Wait. This isn't like Peter Molyneaux described." Fable: The Lost Chapter releases and I'm like, "Wait. This is still kinda the same game...." Fable 2 releases and I'm like, "You did it again, Peter Molyneaux. You will rue the day." Fable 3 came out and I didn't buy it. My friend did and I was more sad for his loss of 50 bucks than anything else. In short, the Fable series sickens me.
I've watched this twice now and loved it, it's one of my favourite gaming documentaries I've seen. Have watched a lot of your series now and appreciate your efforts. Also maybe a valve or Gabe Newell documentary might be a good idea!!
Watching this visionary go at the time and living through the years when we felt that videogames could really get infinitely better with improving technology was definitely a cool experience.
At first I was disappointed that you didn't do a 2021 addendum to catch us up on the last 5 years. Then I looked into it myself and it seems like almost nothing happened aside from one new game announced (in 2017) and some layoffs this month. Makes it all the much sadder.
His games from the 90s are so good. Loved the Magic Carpet, Theme Park and Syndicate I played to death. Black and White was a buggy mess on release which ruined the game for me. It was also the game where the bullshit was clear for everyone. He wasn't helped by the internet and didn't have protection of fawning zealots that Jobs did covering for him..
One of the biggest and greates documentations I've ever seen on a gaming/IT-topic. It's so *big* in every aspect - it should have ended on ARTE or other great TV stations. Thanks a lot for these insights!
What a great vid, to a sad story... For me, a computer games loving teen of the 80s loved the likes of the famous, imaginative, and off-beat coders such Molyneux, Minter, Hare, etc around 1985-1995. Long live the indies 😍
2:22:50 This was such an "Oh shit" moment for me. I knew nothing about Peter before this video outside of a few jokes, but man do i remember curiousity and the shitstorm that followed
My experience of playing _the Movies_ is that I get very very into it, I try get a perfect score, and then the game starts crashing and becomes unplayable.
Ah, the background lore of Guru Larry videos thoroughly explained. Beautiful. Jokes aside, excellent video, I could watch longform documentaries on the games industry all day.
Really brilliant series, thank you for this. Despite everything, I still have affection for Molyneux because he and his studios have created some of my very favourite games over the years, but his inability to rein in his mouth has made him the architect of his own downfall. Honestly think the best thing he could do at this point is just go away and create something and then spring it on the world without any hype whatsoever, but whether he still has the means to do that I have no idea. It would be a shame if "the Godus guy" is his epitaph.
I have now seen several of your videos, and would like to applaud your work! These in depth looks at games and studios that is not talked about much, are really well made and interesting. I am myself part of a two person "bedroom" game-team that is about to complete our horror game, The ER: Patient Typhon. As a danish team that has gotten a lot of inspiration from English media like Rare, Monty Tython, Rik Mayall, dma design and a lot of Amiga games from our childhood, that you cover so well here, it's cool to kind of learn ones owns "history". So a lot of respect to you! - John Professional Villains
It's weird to think, but if September 11th hadn't seen an attack, Lionhead would most likely have stayed independent for most of its life and maybe not been reduced to 'the fable studio'
What an unceremonious end. I flipped a coin, there is an alternate universe where I was the 6th person to give 22cans 5000 pounds in the kickstarter to go to E3 2013. Bullfrog and Lionhead are studios I will forever love, but now that I look back, I am glad I didn't engage at the end of this sad story beyond being another person disappointed to receive an underwhelming mobile game.
@@Retro_B8 yep. I like the gaming historian but that's quite American focused. As far as my arc (commodore) Kim covers exactly what I'm interested in, especially the software houses from the 80s and 90s.
@@grantd165 that’s how I found Kim’s channel, I’m a huge commodore fan and as you say for the micros and uk based then there’s no better! Ah thanks mate, only just really starting my journey but it’s fun to do and that’s what matters to me. It’s a good excuse to go in my shed and play old games haha!
I used to work with Konrad back in the day, nice bloke. My jaw dropped when I found out he'd been appointed Lead Scapegoat- I mean Lead Designer on Godus.
This was great Kim, it took a few days but I went start to finish. Despite his decisions he is absolutely a character deserving of such an investigative and comprehensive breakdown. Thanks for making one!
I'll dig into this on the weekend thanks. Do love a bit of "Molynews" or a retrospective. So many silly things happened over the years that one day it ought to be one of those terrible weekday Hallmark movies.
There should be a big list of overpromise/underdeliver controversies. Guru Larry could do it as it fits his format. He could do Molly, Toddward, and the most recent liars to add to that list, CDPR.
Artists come and go, everything gets forgotten, fable and his other works were great, fun games. But so are thousands of others, overhype tends to get squashed in retrospec, because of their peers. Nobody should overhype themselves in an industry full of hype.
I think the reason Peter was a sun god for so long and had such a fanbase for so long despite his lies is that, in damn near everything he does in public, Molyneux shows a deep and sincerely belief in what games can do and how great they can be. Sadly his sincerity does not excuse his lies around his games and his fuck ups with Godus and 22cans. It also made me sad and angry to see him defend crunch and developing an NFT game. A once great designer and mentor to young designers has become little more than a scammer. I hope we one day get to see a return of Molyneux the great designer rather than Molyneux the liar.
Great documentary. I still like him. Yes, he's royally screwed up and gotten embroiled in some serious crap; but I simply have to much gratitude for the good games. BULLFROG was synonymous with quality. I played games like Syndicate and Theme Park back when they originally came out and enjoyed those games immensely. That cannot be taken away from him. Who could have kept that level of success going indefinitely?
Great doc From having his arc brought together in one place he struck me as quite like Orson Welles. A true pioneer, but always claiming to not have made his best work...that was his next movie/game. Also like Orson in not realising when the world has caught up with you and you can't continue to break new ground. Peter had a damn good run, but his development cycle no longer matches the scale of the games he delivers. I think there's still life in the old dog if he wants it enough and can recognise the changes he needs to make.
Dear Kim, thanks for all the effort that went into this. I am not even that invested in Molyneux or his games - but I found the story thrilling anyways. I usually don´t watch videos for longer than 10-15 minutes at a time but I binged through the first 90 minutes ;-)
Doug Carlston, Steig Hedlund, Jon Van Caneghem, Jeronimo Barrera, Hideki Kamiya, Takashi Tezuka, Fumito Ueda, Bill Roper, Chris Taylor, Brian Reynolds, Michel Ancel, Gabe Newell, Richard Garriott, Gunpei Yokoi, Will Wright, Bredd Sperry, William Randolph, Sid Meier and, of course, Peter Molyneux defines early gaming. Amongst many other names that I didn't write here. Their genius, their fascination for technology, and their obsession with digital creation defined much of my childhood. The worlds they created were like dry kindle for the fires of my boyish imagination. Soon enough I would start to game with friends, games such as Heroes of Might & Magic (Hot seat) or Dungeon Keeper, or we would compare single-player experiences, challenges and progression more often than pure emotions or simple occurrences, in games such as Fallout or Simcity. There are a set of games that truly is the core of my childhood, most of these games include Peter Molyneux. He founded Bullfrog Productions with Les Edgar, both of which went on to develop the best games I've ever had the privilege to play as a boy: Populous, Syndicate, Theme park, Dungeon Keeper, and Black & White. Yes, Magic Carpet is an awesome game but, for me, it pales in comparison to Syndicate and Dungeon Keeper. Alongside Will Wright, Tim Cain, Jon Van Caneghem, and Sid Meier I count Peter Molyneux as one of the giants. Molyneux is a name that sets off a series of nostalgic bombs of reminiscing the gaming of the early 90s. I always loved his broad approach when talking about the potential of gaming joined with the ever so awesome new game he and his coworkers released. His enthusiasm was admirable. It saddens me to no end that he allowed his childish enthusiasm, his openness, his broad approach when discussing his games, or how he talked about possible gaming mechanics to turn him into a caricature of a lying salesman. He became someone who disregarded those working beneath him as he sucked up all the limelight by promising more and more or outright bickering with those around him. He didn't stop his mouth from letting forbidden words from tumbling out that would harm and jeopardize the reputation of those working and associating with him, harming entire game studios. Tarnishing his own reputation forever. I love the guy, I love his work, what he did for gaming, and all the possibilities he made possible- my memories of playing Bullfrog games. Even today I revisit Dungeon Keeper I and II; Richard Ridings' voice is a pure delight to hear every time narrating their sublime story campaign or unprompted interjections during play. Possessing a creature is a tumble back in time of childhood fascination of what-could-be and explorative exultation. Fondness doesn't come close to describing what I feel for these memories his work realized. This is why whenever I remember the great names of gaming when I think of Peter Molyneux the recollection is marred with sadness. Too often I lead my thoughts astray down the desolate path of the unlikely: wishing for the glorious return of Peter Molyneux.
This was a excellent review of the workings of Peter Molyneux and I watched it all without a break. It reminded me of some of my fav games like Dungeon Keeper I & II and Fable. thank you
In a world with so much (perhaps too much) visually on offer. I enjoy these documentaries as much as anything on Netflix, Prime or the other umpteen channel's. Nice one Kim, excellent work.
To echo what others have said, this original series of documentaries introduced me to Kim's work and research. This is a great documentary and channel. Well worth a look and continued subscription.
From beginning to end I was gripped. Thank you for a great watch... My favourite game's have to be syndicate and unfortunately for some populous the beginning. Thank you Kim.
I’m born and bred in Guildford, worked for a small independent computer shop in Guildford town centre called Ultima in the White Lion Walk shopping centre. Peter and a few other Bullfrog members such as Alex Trowers, Mike Mann, Sean Cooper and Glen Corps used to come in often to check out how their newly released games were doing.
In my time there it was games such as Magic Carpet, Syndicate and Theme Park / Hospital which hit the shelves.. and I as well as the other staff spent most days playing them.. those and Doom lol
Lot of fond memories and I found the Bullfrog crew to be a fun enjoyable bunch.. I even did a spot of games testing for them in one of Les Egders (who I met) mansions in Forest Green.. think he owned most of it including the pub! One lunch he opened the garage on the property and drove out one of the JCB taxis from the Stallone Judge Dredd movie :)
# fun fact - Ultima (as well as one individual member Rob) is given a shout-out in the opening credits to Populous!
that's awesome
What a fun story. I do wonder what it was like to be a developer back in the golden age of UK video game development of Bullfrog.
As a huge Lionhead/Bullfrog AND Judge Dredd fan (comics/rpgs/movies/games etc)...
HOLY SHIT!
You have a really effective presentation style. Talking about a man as big as Peter Molyneux isn't easy - especially from the perspective of someone who is as obviously a fan as you are. But what I think carries it for me is your skill at foreshadowing, especially for those of us who, by accident or intent, followed this man's career as gamers. The time you take to let things dawn and let old memories take hold is effective - I really noticed it when you started talking about the lead-up to what Lionhead would do, because it reminded me of a conversation between my ex and I - she loved Black & White, I didn't - my gaming attention was on Populous II and Dungeon Keeper. At the time, we were kids, and didn't know that all of the games we were arguing about were from the same mind.
Thank you.
Watched from start to finish. This is a great documentary on the Morrissey of video games. Thanks Kim!
Bigmouth Strikes Again?
Kim's video game documentaries are BBC quality and deserve to be archived for future generations.
Good comparison :-D
Morrisey of video games, hit the nail on the head there mate!
@@joedent3323 lolll
Molyneux is fascinating because he isn't simply a con-man or a screwup. He is a complex combination of creative genius, con-man energy, charisma, and lack of self control. If his energy is channeled correctly, he creates games like Populous. If not, he creates games like Goddess. In other words: He is in *desperate* need of a strong, disciplined, business oriented counterpart who keeps him in check, lets him focus purely on creative stuff, and steps in when he even _thinks_ of going to the press and promising the moon. In some ways, it reminds me of how John Romero and John Carmack really needed each other. Just see what happened to Romero's Ion Storm studio when there was no Carmack to keep Romero in check.
@@dvdv7777 agreed in general, though early on at Bullfrog I think he was the boss as well as the game designer.
I wish Peter would become a good developer again with the apparent ability to take great young talent under his wing and develop their ideas into great games. Sadly, I don't think Molyneux can return to those heady days.
The original documentary was my introduction to this channel (it was Kimble Justice then). Now I’ve watched everything you’ve done. The nostalgia your videos evoke is immense. Love them to bits.
Wow! Me too! I discovered Kim Justice by searching for Peter Molineux documentary after hearing all the jokes in Larry Bundy's videos.
@@matthewbanes6591 I was just searching for a Fable retrospective and got sucked into the World of Justice. I especially love the stuff about 90s gaming ... and sensible soccer.
Same thing
I think Molyneux never got over the "death" of his Tamagotchi.
He shouldn't have named it "Rosebud"
This is one of the best game documentaries on UA-cam. Well done!
That documentary was absolutely superb!!!
It must have taken you ages to produce something so in depth and professional as that.
First thing I've watched of yours, thank you very much for doing it.
Pete, it's okay to talk about game concepts. No one's angry that you want to talk about things you're considering for games or ideas you have. People are angry that you present those things as though they are *already in the game* and as though they are on lock. People are angry because you *lie* about the state of the game and what they can expect from the product you are asking them money for. All you have to do to avoid this shit is to say "we're thinking about" or "one of our ideas is" at the start, and BAM! Plausible deniability when it doesn't end up in the game. People can understanding that kind of thing. But when you say "You will be able to drop an acorn and see it grow over the course of the game" that is a promise, that is you telling people it *will* be that way. That's why people hate you now, not because you have a ton of ideas but because you _lie to them._
Nnbnnnjm no tednch
No to 9111
A lot of the features he promised were actually implemented into his games but had to be removed as they caused unexpected issues which they couldn't solve in time for the release date. Many of his games were release due to the pressure of the publishers even though they weren't fully finished. Peter is an artist and not a businessman. He has a vision but often can't execute his vision within the time frame given to him. Godus is the game where he really screwed up, especially with the lack of communication to the community and the supporters along with the move to make it a mobile game. There's just no excuse to not communicate with fans, community and supporters.
CD projekt red is the peter m. of our current generation.
@@Hobbitstomper If he fucked anything up lets talk about his 5th symphony Fable. What ever TF fable 3 was, was a huge setback, dunno if it was out sourced or IP sold but that shit was a the start of a money grab IP with their dumbass knock off mobile app and a turd of a "pub game". It was an affront to the video game gods that blessed him with two actually fun games.
Wow, what an amazing amount of research presented in such a palatable way. Kim, you do incredible work.
That was an incredible watch. Words fail me to express how fantastic this documentary is.
Of course nothing in this brilliant video is new to me as I've already watched your series on Molyneux, I still think he does deserve praise for all the pioneering work he did for video games.
It’s crazy isn’t it. He’s such a talented programmer and literally invented the god genre. Yet he sabotaged himself again and again. Is 22 cans even still running?
@@almurray2000 Well the latest news I saw on 22 cans is from a week ago and the headline says "Peter Molyneux's 22Cans hit with layoffs" so I guess it's technically still going but not doing great.
@@TheStuffMade they have significantly less cans now
Yeah but he’s still a bullshitting bellend. Started with bullshitting for free Amigas and continues unabated to this day. And yup, populous was bloody brilliant.
Yeah as much as he was a pompous overambitious blowhard he spearheaded a lot of great games. Sadly all his BSing and inability to reign himself in caught up with him at 22cans. He killed his career, and sadly some of the collateral damage is he killed or at least tarnished the careers of talented people who had the misfortune to work with him.
What an absolute belter of a video, thank you so much!
Subscribed.
Godus.... Is the Tombstone for Peter "Long Nose" Molyneux... A PC Game was Promised... A Mobile Game was delivered... And then it was thrown under the Bus... with the rest of Mr. Molyneux... Reputation... Bullfrog Games are timeless Classics and the greatest Amiga Portfolio of one Company.... Everything after that is a depressing Swansong... (Black & White still on my HD) Kudos for your Essay and the Walk Memory Lane... Cheers... be well, take care - Addendum 2:30:55 Miss him so much... as an honest Voice about the Gaming Industrie
Wow, I just played a little bit of Fable Anniversary Edition, then got the urge to watch your brilliant Molyneux documentary again and now you've uploaded a complete version which makes it very convenient for viewing. Thank you!
These games studio documentaries are SO BLOODY GOOD that I've watched them ALL multiple times! And some of these are games that I never even played at the time, some I'd never even heard about. But as I grew up during those Bedroom Coder times I find the whole subject truly fascinating. Thank you Kim for the incredible amount of time, research and effort that it must take to do these superb documentaries.
Peter Molyneux - his story begins with a sleazy lie. Suddenly the mystery of his reputation is less obscure.
I was so hyped when they showed the Mylo stuff, seemed like truly next gen. And then never a word was said about ever again hahaha
Never seen someone give Peter a fair shake. Great video you got a new sub.
Absolutely incredible documentary. Three hours - totally absorbing. Well done Kim !
Stuck in a lockdown in Chengdu at the moment and watching gaming documentaries with a good pizza makes it easier to bear. Thanks for the great videos Kim 😎
I remember watching the original videos trying to pass the time during a difficult summer Ramadan a few years ago. I'm happy to see how much your channel's grown over the years. Cheers.
Interesting coincidence that you talk about this, this past week I was researching what is Ramadan since a friend that spent time working in Qatar came back saying it was difficult. What are the most difficult things about it in your opinion? Isn't it just a matter of waiting for the night to arrive to be able to eat again? There must be other things that no one ever talks about.
But overall I found (from what I was able to understand through youtube videos) Ramadan to be relatively "easy" to get through, I mean it sounds like "please don't make noise, don't harass other people and don't be an asshole to others otherwise you will face consequences"... It seems to me like simple basic Civic Moral Code of Conduct that everyone should be following already LOL
Third re-watch? Such a high quality video Kim. Amazing work. Honestly wouldn't be out of place on BBC4..
"Where do you start?"
That's an easy one, Kim. You see those trees? They're growing.
Thanks Kim for combining. I just rewatched the whole thing again.
I started of really hating the accent, and ended up really liking it.
Peter Molyneux will always be an inspiration for me, even after all of the fiasco of godus. He has always stood out to be the indie king. One that brings up young people, able to lead and design his crazy ideas into fruition. There isn't another like this guy or will ever be one again.
Will be be able to make a come back though? I really doubt it. As you said it very well, he's a product of his time. Game development has far changed and old Moly is really a product of his time. It's sad, but if you really look back at it, the man's golden years were really bright. Really really bright. That what we should remember him for, and not just godus.
Great documentary from a fellow Southend-er! Just started watching your channel and your a legend mate! You have brought back my childhood!
Thank you for doing this! This was one of my favorite series you did, so it's great to have it all in one place. Any plans to do the same for the series you did on Jack Trammiel?
Yes :)
@@Kim_Justice looking forward to it Kim, you’re one of my favorite channels!
This documentary made for a great listen at work. I had previously watched the series a few years back, but it was super convenient having all parts edited together like this.
I love this series, Kim. Thank you for bringing it together in this bookended "boxed set"!
I would like to see Peter, Todd Howard, and Sean Murray as a team on the BBC's 'Would I Lie To You'.
oh please - Peter is on one level way above Murray, and Murray way above Howard. Howard is, statistically, not far off from average developer/publisher - they all lie all the time (when talking to people/PR/etc.).
@@xBINARYGODx 16 times the detail.
Add Chris Roberts to that list. You all know why ;)
And Randy Pitchford
Or just mAke a game
By the time he got to 22cans, Molly Knew his days in the video game industry were numbered. 😬🤨
Or, Molly: The Godus of Feature Creep.
remember you can play most of these old games in your browser now
If I close my browser window I'll lose my Premier Manager 2 game though
Watched this in one go while sick from flu. A wonderful documentary :)
Ooh I didn't realise there was a compilation of this... 4th time round we go! Thanks Kim
These are the pieces you're born to do Kim.
My history with the Fable series...
Fable 1 releases and I'm like, "Wait. This isn't like Peter Molyneaux described."
Fable: The Lost Chapter releases and I'm like, "Wait. This is still kinda the same game...."
Fable 2 releases and I'm like, "You did it again, Peter Molyneaux. You will rue the day."
Fable 3 came out and I didn't buy it. My friend did and I was more sad for his loss of 50 bucks than anything else.
In short, the Fable series sickens me.
Weird i heard fable 1 and 2 were actually pretty decent.
I've watched this twice now and loved it, it's one of my favourite gaming documentaries I've seen. Have watched a lot of your series now and appreciate your efforts. Also maybe a valve or Gabe Newell documentary might be a good idea!!
"Makes Farmville look like a friggen' Paradox game." I lol'd.
Watched it all before, watching it all again. Content for the ages, and a public service. KILLING IT
And now he's back with a new game, Masters of Albion.
Watching this visionary go at the time and living through the years when we felt that videogames could really get infinitely better with improving technology was definitely a cool experience.
At first I was disappointed that you didn't do a 2021 addendum to catch us up on the last 5 years. Then I looked into it myself and it seems like almost nothing happened aside from one new game announced (in 2017) and some layoffs this month. Makes it all the much sadder.
I loved Peter Molyneux Games. They had that "Magic factor" I could not find in many other games.
His games from the 90s are so good. Loved the Magic Carpet, Theme Park and Syndicate I played to death. Black and White was a buggy mess on release which ruined the game for me. It was also the game where the bullshit was clear for everyone. He wasn't helped by the internet and didn't have protection of fawning zealots that Jobs did covering for him..
I love this era of games. Thank you for putting this together, stuff like this is what makes youtube great. ❤
One of the biggest and greates documentations I've ever seen on a gaming/IT-topic.
It's so *big* in every aspect - it should have ended on ARTE or other great TV stations.
Thanks a lot for these insights!
Think this plus history of UK gaming TV and Psygnosis story is probably your best work ever.
What a great vid, to a sad story...
For me, a computer games loving teen of the 80s loved the likes of the famous, imaginative, and off-beat coders such Molyneux, Minter, Hare, etc around 1985-1995.
Long live the indies 😍
2:22:50 This was such an "Oh shit" moment for me. I knew nothing about Peter before this video outside of a few jokes, but man do i remember curiousity and the shitstorm that followed
My experience of playing _the Movies_ is that I get very very into it, I try get a perfect score, and then the game starts crashing and becomes unplayable.
He had started his career as a con man. He ended his career as one too. There is a poetic beauty in this.
This is one of my favourite UA-cam videos ever. Nice work KJ!
Ah, the background lore of Guru Larry videos thoroughly explained. Beautiful.
Jokes aside, excellent video, I could watch longform documentaries on the games industry all day.
I really think your documentaries are excellent, Kim. Especially this molyneux one.
This vid (series) is Perhaps the finest gaming retrospective ever made. Brilliant Kim, even watching this a handful of years later.
Really brilliant series, thank you for this. Despite everything, I still have affection for Molyneux because he and his studios have created some of my very favourite games over the years, but his inability to rein in his mouth has made him the architect of his own downfall. Honestly think the best thing he could do at this point is just go away and create something and then spring it on the world without any hype whatsoever, but whether he still has the means to do that I have no idea. It would be a shame if "the Godus guy" is his epitaph.
I have now seen several of your videos, and would like to applaud your work!
These in depth looks at games and studios that is not talked about much, are really well made and interesting. I am myself part of a two person "bedroom" game-team that is about to complete our horror game, The ER: Patient Typhon.
As a danish team that has gotten a lot of inspiration from English media like Rare, Monty Tython, Rik Mayall, dma design and a lot of Amiga games from our childhood, that you cover so well here, it's cool to kind of learn ones owns "history".
So a lot of respect to you!
- John
Professional Villains
It's weird to think, but if September 11th hadn't seen an attack, Lionhead would most likely have stayed independent for most of its life and maybe not been reduced to 'the fable studio'
That was a great piece of journalism, a great documentary, and a great watch. Thanks Kim.
This is awesome Kim! By far my favourite documentary series you created, now in one nice sit-downable "for one of those extremely dull days" format :D
What an unceremonious end. I flipped a coin, there is an alternate universe where I was the 6th person to give 22cans 5000 pounds in the kickstarter to go to E3 2013. Bullfrog and Lionhead are studios I will forever love, but now that I look back, I am glad I didn't engage at the end of this sad story beyond being another person disappointed to receive an underwhelming mobile game.
About Fable 3. That "gameplay menu" has some sort of predecessor in Terranigma. I wonder if Molyneux got the idea from that.
One of my favourite documentaries by you ever!
Same here. Fair, even handed and avoids exaggeration and hysterical reaction.
@@grantd165 totally agree, I’d say for retro gaming documentaries it’s hard to find anyone who does it better!
@@Retro_B8 yep. I like the gaming historian but that's quite American focused. As far as my arc (commodore) Kim covers exactly what I'm interested in, especially the software houses from the 80s and 90s.
@@Retro_B8 just seen you post your own stuff too. I'll have a look at them mate.
@@grantd165 that’s how I found Kim’s channel, I’m a huge commodore fan and as you say for the micros and uk based then there’s no better!
Ah thanks mate, only just really starting my journey but it’s fun to do and that’s what matters to me. It’s a good excuse to go in my shed and play old games haha!
This was so well done, amazing documentary
Oh my god, I really loved Theme Park, Dungeon Keeper 2 and Black and White :) Those games were among the best back then :)
I felt so old when you had to explain what a tamagotchi was.
Loved these videos so glad you are reposting ❤
I used to work with Konrad back in the day, nice bloke. My jaw dropped when I found out he'd been appointed Lead Scapegoat- I mean Lead Designer on Godus.
What is Konrad doing now? I imagine he's as far away from the games industry as possible thanks to Molly and 22cans.
This was great Kim, it took a few days but I went start to finish.
Despite his decisions he is absolutely a character deserving of such an investigative and comprehensive breakdown. Thanks for making one!
I'll dig into this on the weekend thanks. Do love a bit of "Molynews" or a retrospective. So many silly things happened over the years that one day it ought to be one of those terrible weekday Hallmark movies.
What I never understand is why Peter Molyneux gets punished, but Todd Howard gets a free pass.
Free pass? The guy gets memed on more than anyone in the gaming world with the possible exception of Bobby Kotick...
There should be a big list of overpromise/underdeliver controversies. Guru Larry could do it as it fits his format. He could do Molly, Toddward, and the most recent liars to add to that list, CDPR.
Artists come and go, everything gets forgotten, fable and his other works were great, fun games. But so are thousands of others, overhype tends to get squashed in retrospec, because of their peers. Nobody should overhype themselves in an industry full of hype.
I think the reason Peter was a sun god for so long and had such a fanbase for so long despite his lies is that, in damn near everything he does in public, Molyneux shows a deep and sincerely belief in what games can do and how great they can be. Sadly his sincerity does not excuse his lies around his games and his fuck ups with Godus and 22cans. It also made me sad and angry to see him defend crunch and developing an NFT game. A once great designer and mentor to young designers has become little more than a scammer. I hope we one day get to see a return of Molyneux the great designer rather than Molyneux the liar.
Great documentary. I still like him. Yes, he's royally screwed up and gotten embroiled in some serious crap; but I simply have to much gratitude for the good games. BULLFROG was synonymous with quality. I played games like Syndicate and Theme Park back when they originally came out and enjoyed those games immensely. That cannot be taken away from him. Who could have kept that level of success going indefinitely?
Great doc
From having his arc brought together in one place he struck me as quite like Orson Welles. A true pioneer, but always claiming to not have made his best work...that was his next movie/game. Also like Orson in not realising when the world has caught up with you and you can't continue to break new ground.
Peter had a damn good run, but his development cycle no longer matches the scale of the games he delivers. I think there's still life in the old dog if he wants it enough and can recognise the changes he needs to make.
Dear Kim, thanks for all the effort that went into this. I am not even that invested in Molyneux or his games - but I found the story thrilling anyways. I usually don´t watch videos for longer than 10-15 minutes at a time but I binged through the first 90 minutes ;-)
Absolute banger as always Kim! Love how in-depth you get with these!
Really good to find an in-depth, luxuriously detailed documentary like this on one of gaming’s foremost auteurs. Hope we see more.
These long videos you make are really quite good indeed.
Great video! Lots of good detail and solid explanation! No music with lyrics would have made it perfect.
Syndicate, agreed, the absolute peek of Bullfrog. I had an Amiga + Hard Drive, this game, along with Settlers were the cream of the crop!!
Demis Hassabis is a legend. I based a research paper on his AI work and it's fascinating stuff, not to mention scored me a high grade
2:43:52 Bless you! ...continue
edit: discovered this channel today and loving every minute of it, fantastic work
Doug Carlston, Steig Hedlund, Jon Van Caneghem, Jeronimo Barrera, Hideki Kamiya, Takashi Tezuka, Fumito Ueda, Bill Roper, Chris Taylor, Brian Reynolds, Michel Ancel, Gabe Newell, Richard Garriott, Gunpei Yokoi, Will Wright, Bredd Sperry, William Randolph, Sid Meier and, of course, Peter Molyneux defines early gaming. Amongst many other names that I didn't write here. Their genius, their fascination for technology, and their obsession with digital creation defined much of my childhood. The worlds they created were like dry kindle for the fires of my boyish imagination. Soon enough I would start to game with friends, games such as Heroes of Might & Magic (Hot seat) or Dungeon Keeper, or we would compare single-player experiences, challenges and progression more often than pure emotions or simple occurrences, in games such as Fallout or Simcity.
There are a set of games that truly is the core of my childhood, most of these games include Peter Molyneux. He founded Bullfrog Productions with Les Edgar, both of which went on to develop the best games I've ever had the privilege to play as a boy: Populous, Syndicate, Theme park, Dungeon Keeper, and Black & White. Yes, Magic Carpet is an awesome game but, for me, it pales in comparison to Syndicate and Dungeon Keeper. Alongside Will Wright, Tim Cain, Jon Van Caneghem, and Sid Meier I count Peter Molyneux as one of the giants. Molyneux is a name that sets off a series of nostalgic bombs of reminiscing the gaming of the early 90s. I always loved his broad approach when talking about the potential of gaming joined with the ever so awesome new game he and his coworkers released. His enthusiasm was admirable.
It saddens me to no end that he allowed his childish enthusiasm, his openness, his broad approach when discussing his games, or how he talked about possible gaming mechanics to turn him into a caricature of a lying salesman. He became someone who disregarded those working beneath him as he sucked up all the limelight by promising more and more or outright bickering with those around him. He didn't stop his mouth from letting forbidden words from tumbling out that would harm and jeopardize the reputation of those working and associating with him, harming entire game studios. Tarnishing his own reputation forever.
I love the guy, I love his work, what he did for gaming, and all the possibilities he made possible- my memories of playing Bullfrog games. Even today I revisit Dungeon Keeper I and II; Richard Ridings' voice is a pure delight to hear every time narrating their sublime story campaign or unprompted interjections during play. Possessing a creature is a tumble back in time of childhood fascination of what-could-be and explorative exultation. Fondness doesn't come close to describing what I feel for these memories his work realized. This is why whenever I remember the great names of gaming when I think of Peter Molyneux the recollection is marred with sadness.
Too often I lead my thoughts astray down the desolate path of the unlikely: wishing for the glorious return of Peter Molyneux.
This has always been one of my favorite examples of your work, thanks for the compilation >3
what an incredibly indepth analysis of Molyneux. Fantastic video.
I hadn't seen this whole thing before. Found out about your wonderful channel a bit late. I love your work Kim.
This was a excellent review of the workings of Peter Molyneux and I watched it all without a break. It reminded me of some of my fav games like Dungeon Keeper I & II and Fable. thank you
Excellent Series, cheers for uploading in a handy block, inspired me to rewatch :-)
In a world with so much (perhaps too much) visually on offer. I enjoy these documentaries as much as anything on Netflix, Prime or the other umpteen channel's. Nice one Kim, excellent work.
To echo what others have said, this original series of documentaries introduced me to Kim's work and research. This is a great documentary and channel. Well worth a look and continued subscription.
Kim you are great. Love your documentary videos. Keep It going.greatings from Argentina.
Happy to see the amount of subs you’ve accumulated. Keep going Kim, 100k aint too far away!
Kim your documentary videos are high level. Enjoy this game history lessons.
From beginning to end I was gripped. Thank you for a great watch...
My favourite game's have to be syndicate and unfortunately for some populous the beginning.
Thank you Kim.
Spooky. I literally finished watching the whole series about an hour ago…
same. also I think I saw you in a dream last night. you told me how I will die, and I told you the true names of all things
haven't heard it in years... but unmistakeable... the civ 1 intro theme about 46:10
An absolutely incredible documentary Kim, the effort and research that must have gone into it is breathtaking. Congratulations!
Absolutely fantastic work Kim. Really well put together, as always.
And thanks for uploading it all together in one place!
I think he's going to be an interesting bit of gaming history, as well as a lesson.
Very good video!