New World Computing

New World Computing at a Glance

New World Computing operated as an American developer and publisher from 1986 through 2002 based in Agoura Hills, California. Founded by Jon Van Caneghem, his wife Michaela, and Mark Caldwell, the studio released 39 games across its history with a heavy focus on turn-based strategy. Their catalog includes 21 titles in this genre, alongside 20 general strategy games and 17 role-playing entries. While they touched on adventure and tactical genres, their output remained narrow compared to broader industry trends of the era. The company released most of its work during the 1990s with 23 titles, followed by 13 in the early 2000s. The 1980s saw only three releases. Their platform reach was primarily centered on PC and DOS systems, with 25 games for Windows and 19 for DOS. They also supported older hardware like the Macintosh, Apple II, and Commodore C64, as well as consoles such as the Sega Mega Drive and PlayStation 2. The studio was acquired by 3DO Company in 1996 and ceased operations in 2003 after the parent company filed for bankruptcy. Quality trends show a distinct shift over time. New World Computing produced some of its highest-rated games late in their run, specifically within the Might and Magic and Heroes of Might and Magic franchises. Three of their top titles scored above 85 points. Heroes of Might and Magic III: The Restoration of Erathia reached 90.6 out of 100 in 1999. Might and Magic VII: For Blood and Honor followed closely with 89.1, and Might and Magic VI: The Mandate of Heaven scored 87.3. Two other entries, Heroes of Might and Magic II releases, also broke the 80-point mark. However, their later output struggled to maintain this standard. By March 2002, they released Heroes of Might and Magic IV with a score of 74.4 and Might and Magic IX at 66. The decline continued into June of that year when Heroes Chronicles: Revolt of the Beastmasters received only 31 out of 100. Another entry from that same month, The Sword of Frost, scored just 21. Overall, the studio had an average IGDB rating of 62.5 across 25 rated titles. While they achieved six great scores, they also produced four poor titles and four mixed ones. Their reputation relies heavily on a few peak years rather than consistent performance throughout their two decades of activity.

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