The Making of Karateka: Journals 1982-1985 Paperback – 26 Dec. 2012

I didn't know what to expect from this book, I loved the game as a kid and I was just curious. I really enjoyed going through Jordan's diary, his style is dry, but I empathised with him the whole time. He never took himself too seriously and narrates very well the complexity of game development. I wish I was as smart as him at his age. Thanks for recording this experience, and sharing it with us!

I've tried many times to write a video game, but I've always been dissatisfied with the results, and given up fairly early on. Jordan's journals (both Karateka and Prince of Persia) have really inspired me. I'm amazed how long it took him, start to finish, and I really admire his staying power and sense of purpose. What's more, I found this a thoughtful, thought provoking and entertaining read. Can't ask for much more than that.

Loved the kindle version so much I bought this hard copy version and within few months read again. I can really relate to the author and and his love of movies and computing in general. I am a bit younger than Jordan but I was inspired to get into game development and re-watch some movies I completely forgot about :)

I recommend reading this book at least once. Loved it through and trough. Going to buy The Making of Prince of Persia as well.

Read the 'Look Inside' preview - if you like it, you'll love the rest of the book.

This is a great nostalgic trip taking about one of the greats - the maker of Prince of Persia. So good to hear the way it all started.

Great book, such a fun read and very inspirational.

This is a great read for anyone who grew up with an Apple ][ or C64 and dreamed of writing the killer game in the 80s. Things were a lot different back then - and one person with enough skill, motivation and a computer really could do it all. I totally connected with Jordan's comments about life, school and the highs and lows of investing the time to bring a no-compromises vision of a game to life. An easy and fascinatong piece of history for anyone who dreamed of being famous by writing a game or who was a gamer growing up in that era. Totally worth it.

It looks I have found a treasure reading one of the classics that most influenced my childhood. Easy reading and straight to the subject. I recommend it for all game designers so that they may understand the ups and downs of a creativeness crisis and also for all retrogamers.

The book feels very intimate and honest. I was impressed by the thoughts of the young Jordan Mechner in his very early attempt to lead in a very young industry. I wish I had read this book when I was staring my own game design career.

Useful english reading for me (I'm italian). The Spark was the story behind my First Adventure Arcade game, but the Surprise was reading of film and life of a young that study, work and program his future.Nice for me!