Lance Micklus

Lance Micklus developed a strong interest in technology and electronics early in life. By the mid-1970s, he was working as a studio engineer for Vermont’s public television station. Because the station was affiliated with the University of Vermont, he gained access to their mainframe systems. It was on those university computers that Micklus discovered the pioneering mainframe text game Colossal Cave Adventure. This initial encounter sparked his fascination with how words could build virtual, interactive worlds.

When the TRS-80 Microcomputer was launched by Radio Shack in 1977, Micklus bought one and immediately began programming in BASIC. Sensing a booming consumer demand for home software, he founded Lance Micklus, Inc., running a small software house out of his home alongside his wife, Dianne.

Micklus quickly became one of the most prolific developers for the TRS-80 platform. Between 1978 and 1979, he developed a diverse portfolio of software:Strategy & Text Games: He launched hits like Star Trek III (later renamed Star Flite), Treasure Hunt, and Mastermind.Utility Software: He wrote practical programs like Checkfinder, designed to help users balance their checkbooks.His games were commercialized via cassette tapes and marketed through early computer publications like The TRS-80 Software Exchange, Mad Hatter Software, and SoftSide magazine.