Firebird

Overview

Firebird began as British Telecom’s attempt to enter the budget-games market. Within a year it expanded into “Silver” (£1.99) and “Gold” (£2.99) lines, then launched the premium “Rainbird” label for ambitious sims and adventures. The brand proved that a corporate parent could still champion bedroom talent.

Fast facts

• Breakout release: Elite (1985) on the BBC Micro and beyond, published under the Firebird label.
• Sub-labels: Firebird Silver, Gold, and Rainbird, each targeting different price tiers.
• Talent scout: signed developers via magazine adverts and open submissions, much like smaller independents.

Legacy

Firebird’s IP later folded into MicroProse after Telecomsoft’s sale, but its approach to nurturing talent across price tiers inspired later publishers like Team17 and Curve Digital.

See also

• Hewson Consultants
• Mastertronic
• Sinclair ZX Spectrum
• The Rise of the Bedroom Coder