1982 · Business simulation · Historical

Taipan!

A turn-based strategy game based on the novel Tai-Pan by James Clavell, in which the player seeks riches through naval trade in East Asia.

Released: 1982
Platforms: Amstrad CPC Apple II Browser TRS-80 TRS-80 Model I
Genres: Business simulation Historical Strategy Turn-based strategy
Developers: —
Publishers: —
Modes: Single-player
Themes: Historical Business
Country: United States

About

Taipan! is a 1979 turn-based strategy computer game written for the TRS-80 and ported to the Apple II in 1982. It was created by Art Canfil and the company Mega Micro Computers, and published by Avalanche Productions.

The game Taipan! was inspired by the novel Tai-Pan by James Clavell. The player is in the role of a 19th-century trader in the Far East. The goal of the game is for the player to accumulate wealth through trade and possibly also through booty won in battles against pirates. As soon as the player's net worth reaches one million pounds, the player has the option to retire.

Media

The articlegameplay, story, development, reception

Gameplay

The player begins the game with a ship. At the beginning, he has the option to either start without any cash but five guns, or with some cash and a debt.

The basic strategy of the game is to buy goods (opium, silk, arms, and general cargo) at a low price and sell them at a higher price. Silk, arms, and general cargo have no special features; opium is special in that it can be confiscated at random points by the local authorities, resulting in a fine for the player. This makes dealing in opium riskier than dealing in the other goods; however, it is also generally the most profitable item for trade.

Reception

J. Mishcon reviewed Taipan in The Space Gamer No. 32. Mishcon commented that "This game is so much fun that I must recommend it [...] It will be a constant delight for older children."

Upon meeting the creator at a 1982 Electronic Arts founding party, Apple co-founder Steve Wozniak declared that Taipan was "my favorite game!" The game creator stated that this was one of the high points of his life.