Seconded re ZZT. I remember learning HTML so that I could build my first website, which was a ZZT fan website (there were more). That game literally launched my career as a programmer.

My brother and I would sit at the computer for hours building elaborate 8-bit worlds fueled mainly by our imaginations.

When I was 8 years old, I remember participating in a contest for which Tim Sweeney wrote me a personal letter. I’ve saved the letter. Here’s the link if you’re interested: https://www.dropbox.com/s/12o0qgg2y1uzd30/1990-91%20album%20...

Thanks, Tim! It’s not every CEO who goes out of his way to encourage a kid. You inspired me.