Ted Tahquechi

Senior Project Manager, Atari, Accolade and Mattel Toys.

Ted Tahquechi is a well-known figure in the video game industry, known for his work in the videogame industry during the 1980s and 1990s. His contributions have left an indelible mark on the development of classic video games, releasing 35 titles for major platforms such as PC, Jaguar, Lynx, PlayStation, 5200, and 7800 while working for Atari, Accolade, and Mattel Toys. With a career spanning over several decades, Ted has become a well-known name among retro gaming enthusiasts.

Ted’s dedication to the craft didn’t stop with game design and project management. Throughout his career, he lent his creativity in sound design, voice acting, and music creation to many of the titles he and others managed. He loves to speak at retro gaming conferences, where he has shared his insights on the industry’s evolution, the challenges and rewards of early game development, and the importance of creativity in the field. His presentations often delve into the technical innovations and limitations of the time, as well as the collaborative efforts required to bring a game from concept to reality.

Today, Ted continues to engage with the gaming community, sharing his experiences and knowledge with a new generation of developers. His contributions to the industry, particularly during its formative years, have earned him a place among the pioneers of video game development.

Moby Games Credits

https://www.mobygames.com/person/12808/ted-tahquechi/credits

Ted’s Journey

Atari

Accolade

Mattel Toys

Working with Atari, Ted was involved in creating games that became iconic to the brand. Ted’s work contributed to the company’s legacy as a pioneer in home entertainment. Notable titles released while at Atari include Tempest 2000, I-war, Kasumi Ninja, and the development of Skyhammer 2, Legions of the Undead, and Iron Soldier 2 for the Atari Jaguar and Jaguar CD.

With Accolade, Ted created the “Test Drive Off-Road” franchise which brought new realism to the offroad racing genre and featured licensed music from Warner Bros. and vehicles from Hummer, Jeep, Land Rover, and Chevy. Ted was also Senior Project Manager for Redline: Gang Warfare 2066, a post-apocalyptic vehicular combat and first-person shooter.

Ted’s time at Mattel Toys further broadened his impact, allowing him to explore different genres and gaming systems, bringing unique and memorable gaming experiences to players worldwide where he was involved in overseeing many titles developed for the Hot Wheels property.

Meet Ted and Carrie!

Ted and Carrie will be at Midwest Gaming Classic

April 24-26th

Tickets & Info: https://www.midwestgamingclassic.com/

Ted and Carrie Tahquechi are bringing a wonderful mix of firsthand game industry history, humor, and behind the scenes stories to Midwest Gaming Classic in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, April 24 to 26. While many fans know Ted from his work in the industry, Carrie has her own great place in that history as well, including voice work for Tempest 2000 and contributions to other titles from that era. Together, they offer something special, a chance to hear from two people who were part of the creative energy, problem solving, and beautiful chaos that helped shape memorable games fans still love today.