Apogee: the shareware kings
Apogee Software was a key player in the early days of the PC gaming industry, making a significant impact as both a developer and publisher. Established in 1987 by Scott Miller and George Broussard, Apogee is widely credited with pioneering the shareware distribution model for video games. This innovative approach allowed gamers to download and play a portion of a game for free, with the option to purchase the full version if they enjoyed it.
The company earned acclaim with games like Commander Keen, a series of side-scrolling platformers that debuted in the early 1990s, and the Duke Nukem series, which evolved from 2D platformers into 3D first-person shooters. Apogee's most notable contribution, however, was its role in the development and distribution of Wolfenstein 3D and Doom. The shareware model played a crucial role in the widespread success and iconic status of these games.
In the late 1990s, Apogee rebranded as 3D Realms and continued to develop and publish games across various genres. The company maintained a lasting connection with gamers, especially those who fondly remembered its early shareware releases.
Find out more about Commander Keen 4: Secret of the Oracle