Howard Scott Warshaw, born on July 30, 1957 in Colorado, is a renowned video game designer who has left a lasting impact on the gaming industry. He completed his Master's Degree in Computer Engineering from Tulane University before starting his career as an engineer at Hewlett-Packard. However, his true passion lay in the world of video games, and he soon made a name for himself in the field.
Warshaw gained widespread recognition for his work on Atari games, most notably the controversial E.T.: The Extra Terrestrial. Despite its infamy as one of the worst video games ever made, Warshaw's role as the sole designer of the game catapulted him to fame within the gaming community. The commercial failure of E.T. led to Atari burying thousands of unsold copies in a New Mexican desert, cementing its place in gaming history.
Warshaw's talent as a game designer was not limited to the E.T. disaster. He also created the critically acclaimed game Yars' Revenge, which showcased his innovative approach to game design and secured him a spot as an exhibiting artist in the New York Museum of Modern Art. His contributions to the industry have earned him a devoted following among gamers and critics alike.
Despite his professional success, Warshaw's personal life remained relatively private. He married at some point in his life, but the couple never had children. His focus on his career and his passion for gaming took center stage, allowing him to make significant contributions to the industry without distractions.
Warshaw's impact on the gaming world extends beyond his game design skills. He has appeared at various gaming conventions and events, where he has been celebrated as a cult hero among fans. He has also expanded his career beyond gaming, working as a licensed psychotherapist and a published author. His diverse talents and interests have solidified his reputation as a multifaceted creative force.
Overall, Howard Scott Warshaw's career is a testament to the power of creativity and innovation in the gaming world. Despite the challenges he faced, he persevered and left a lasting legacy that continues to inspire aspiring game designers and artists today.