Zork source code unveiled after 47 years — Microsoft approved publication of the adventure trilogy’s code

Enthusiasts can now officially explore the source code.

The Zork franchise is back in the spotlight. Microsoft has published the source code for three classic titles.

Interestingly, an enthusiast had already uploaded these files to GitHub in 2019, which meant rights holders could have requested their removal at any time.

Zork is a series of text-based adventure games. The first entry, Zork I: The Great Underground Empire, debuted in 1978; it was followed by Zork II: The Wizard of Frobozz and Zork III: The Dungeon Master.

The Zork source code is now released under the MIT license, allowing anyone to examine the games’ internals officially. Trademark and other intellectual property rights remain with Microsoft.

Microsoft gained ownership of the Zork rights through its acquisition of Activision Blizzard.

Source: iXBT.games