Prince of Persia turns 35: Jordan Mechner and Ubisoft look back at the original 1989 masterpiece
In the vast landscape of video game history, few titles have made as profound and enduring an impact as Prince of Persia. Celebrating its 35th anniversary on October 3, this iconic franchise takes us back three and a half decades to its inaugural release in 1989 on the Apple II. Known for its groundbreaking use of rotoscoping technology, Prince of Persia was a thrilling cinematic adventure that captivated a generation of gamers.
The mastermind behind this legendary game, Jordan Mechner, has managed to remain a vibrant figure in the creative world, though he has since shifted his talents from video game design to graphic novels and art. His recent graphic novel serves as an autobiographical exploration that illuminates his journey and experiences, including the development of his acclaimed games.
Mechner describes his journey through the 1980s game development landscape in both his “The Making of Prince of Persia” journals and his new graphic memoir, providing fans with an insider’s perspective on his creative process and the challenges faced during his early career. Originally published in French in 2023, this memoir became available to English-speaking audiences this year.
The original Prince of Persia spawned two sequels in subsequent years, one in 1993 and another in 1999. The franchise experienced a significant transformation in 2001 when Ubisoft acquired the rights and released Prince of Persia: The Sands of Time. This installment, which also involved input from Jordan Mechner, rejuvenated the series and has garnered a dedicated fanbase, eventually leading to a remake that is currently in development. However, after enjoying this resurgence, the series entered a hiatus post-2010.
The dynamic of the series shifted once again this year with the release of Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown by Ubisoft Montpellier. This latest game marks a triumphant return to the franchise’s roots, embracing the classic 2D action-platformer style with a metroidvania twist. Garnering critical acclaim, it has emerged as one of Ubisoft’s highest-rated offerings in recent years.
As a tribute to the enduring legacy of Prince of Persia, Ubisoft has unveiled an extensive feature delving into the history of the original game. The company promises even more exciting behind-the-scenes revelations about the franchise, encouraging fans to stay tuned for upcoming stories that delve deeper into the cherished series.
Over the years, Prince of Persia has cemented its place as a beloved gaming staple, influencing countless titles and leaving a lasting imprint on the action-adventure genre. From its inception on the Apple II to its modern revival, the franchise continues to charm new and veteran players alike, proving time and again the timeless allure of its evocative tale and innovative gameplay.
