Apogee Software
Shareware pioneers
The company that invented the modern shareware model, giving away the first episode free to sell the rest - launching Commander Keen, Duke Nukem, and publishing Wolfenstein 3D.
Overview
Apogee Software was the company that invented the episodic shareware model, proving that giving away Episode 1 for free would drive sales of Episodes 2 and 3. Founded by Scott Miller in 1987, Apogee published some of the most important PC games of the early 1990s including Commander Keen, Duke Nukem, and—as publisher—Wolfenstein 3D. Their model changed how games were distributed.
Fast Facts
- Founded: 1987
- Founder: Scott Miller
- Location: Texas, USA
- Innovation: “Apogee Model” shareware
- Later became: 3D Realms
- Key titles: Keen, Duke, Wolfenstein (publisher)
The Apogee Model
The revolutionary approach:
| Episode | Distribution | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Episode 1 | Free - copy everywhere | $0 |
| Episodes 2-3 | Order direct | $30-40 |
This was marketing genius - free distribution of the hook, payment for the rest.
Why It Worked
| Factor | Effect |
|---|---|
| Zero cost trial | Everyone could try |
| BBS distribution | Viral spread |
| Quality required | Episode 1 had to be good |
| Direct sales | High margin |
Major Titles
| Game | Developer | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Commander Keen | id Software | 1990 |
| Duke Nukem | Apogee | 1991 |
| Wolfenstein 3D | id Software | 1992 |
| Rise of the Triad | Apogee | 1994 |
Relationship with id Software
Apogee published id’s early games:
- Commander Keen (published)
- Wolfenstein 3D (published)
- Helped id establish themselves
- id later self-published Doom
Business Success
At peak:
- Millions in revenue
- Hundreds of thousands of registrations
- Proved shareware viable
- Inspired entire industry
Evolution to 3D Realms
In 1996:
- Renamed to 3D Realms
- Duke Nukem 3D released
- Shift to full commercial
- Shareware era ending
Legacy
Apogee proved that free could drive paid. Their model directly influenced modern freemium, demos, and “first episode free” strategies. Scott Miller’s insight—that generous free content creates paying customers—remains valid today.