Software Toolworks
The Software Toolworks Inc. was the distributor of two Ultima products. This company, founded in 1980, was ultimately acquired by Pearson in 1994.
History with Ultima[edit]
Software Toolworks came into contact with Origin, and thus the Ultima series, after acquiring Mindscape in late 1990. Since Mindscape was already distributing games for Origin in Europe, this acquisition created a direct line to Origin. While it is unknown what exactly went on behind the scenes, an agreement was made for Software Toolworks to distribute several game compilations in the United States.
After Electronic Arts bought Origin, it ended all cooperation with distribution partners due to its own distribution network, thus also ending cooperation with Software Toolworks and Mindscape. The two products they distributed were re-released directly by Origin shortly thereafter.
Products Distributed[edit]
- Ultima VI/Wing Commander combo box (1991)
- Ultima I–VI Series (1992)
Trivia[edit]
- Ironically, the very purchase of Mindscape would ultimately spell the end for Software Toolworks. After its acquisition by Pearson, all of Software Toolworks’ operations were moved under the Mindscape umbrella (due to Mindscape’s greater visibility), effectively ending the brand name.
Logo Gallery[edit]
The logo while distributing Ultima games
External Links[edit]
- Software Toolworks (Wikipedia)
| Companies involved with the Ultima series | |
|---|---|
| The Main Studio | Origin Systems Inc. |
| Western Companies | California Pacific Computer Co. ☥ Electronic Arts ☥ Looking Glass Studios ☥ MicroProse Mindscape ☥ Sierra On-Line, Inc. ☥ The Software Toolworks Inc. |
| Japanese Companies | Fujitsu Ltd. ☥ PonyCanyon Inc. ☥ StarCraft Inc. |