Re: Campaign to Preserve ORIGINAL versions of ancient Apple ][ Games

[phoenyx <quazar@dcnet2000.com>]

On Mon, 20 Nov 2000 14:55:55 -0600, Rubywand wrote:

> > Personally I see no reason to attempt creating a new software market for
> > II programs. It isn't something that one could justify for the time
> > invested.
> 
>      The time invested need not be so great. Really, all that is required is
> that those with some Apple II software worth selling offer the software at a
> price users will pay.

While it is surely a benefit to Apple II programmers that II software is often
smaller and easier to create, quality programming and development always takes
time. Even the best authors could not throw together a program in a few hours
or even days. Applications also require upkeep such as bug fixes and feature
enhancements. Not to mention the aspect of user support, which often cost more
than the software itself. I know you recall all the trouble we had regarding
support back in the days.

There is a pretty significant difference in the way software is developed today
compared to the Apple II stuff. Now they have (and need) teams of designers and
programmers and graphics artist working on projects. The Apple II software was
often made by one or two people with the possible exception of games.

As an example of difference, look at Appleworks. While the original author
certainly created an exceptional program, the final version, reworked by a
group of developers, is almost a different system.

> > I would however like to see a movement towards more open source
> > programs. Not necessarily for the code or information sharing but more as
> > a method of community involvement.
>  ....
>
>      Well, I would be interested in the information. Again, though, it would
> be fair for programmers to put some price on this sort of information.

It's not the information that should be priced but the delivery of it. Since
the information is primarily public knowledge anyhow, it would offer little
advantage in trying to market it.

Even if there were a market for Apple II/6502 type of information or programs it
is not worth trying to exploit it. It has been shown in these news groups alone
that such efforts would and will be exploited by others once they are publicly
introduced.

Since my primary concern is the advancement of Apple II and the creation of new
II software projects, and keeping in mind the aforementioned aspects, the only
realistic method is GPL or some similar method of development and distribution.

--

Thank you for your time and interest. I hope it was helpful
or at least interesting.

Phoenyx,

Apple2 user since March 1984

Links to Phoenyx's pages:
preferred..... http://zip.to/Phoenyx_A2
alternate..... http://www.tinyangeldesigns.com/Apple2