# Cavedog Entertainment

> defunct video game company

**Wikidata**: [Q684218](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q684218)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cavedog_Entertainment)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/cavedog-entertainment

## Summary
Cavedog Entertainment was a defunct American video game developer founded in 1996 by Ron Gilbert. It was known for creating the real-time strategy game *Total Annihilation* and was dissolved in 2000.

## Key Facts
- Founded in 1996 by Ron Gilbert
- Dissolved in 2000
- Based in Bothell, United States
- Specialized in video game development
- Known for developing *Total Annihilation*
- Operated under Atari, Inc. and Humongous Entertainment as parent organizations
- Produced video games for personal use
- Website archived in 1998

## FAQs
### Q: What was Cavedog Entertainment known for?
A: Cavedog Entertainment was known for developing the real-time strategy game *Total Annihilation* and was a defunct video game developer based in the United States.

### Q: Who founded Cavedog Entertainment?
A: Cavedog Entertainment was founded by Ron Gilbert, an American video game designer and producer.

### Q: When was Cavedog Entertainment dissolved?
A: Cavedog Entertainment was dissolved in 2000.

### Q: What was the parent organization of Cavedog Entertainment?
A: Cavedog Entertainment was operated under Atari, Inc. and Humongous Entertainment as parent organizations.

### Q: What type of games did Cavedog Entertainment develop?
A: Cavedog Entertainment specialized in developing video games for personal use, including the real-time strategy game *Total Annihilation*.

## Why It Matters
Cavedog Entertainment played a significant role in the video game industry, particularly in the development of real-time strategy games. Its most notable work, *Total Annihilation*, introduced innovative gameplay mechanics and became a landmark title in the genre. The company's dissolution in 2000 marked the end of an era for independent game developers, reflecting the shifting landscape of the industry during that time. While short-lived, Cavedog Entertainment left a lasting impact on the gaming community, influencing future developers and setting a standard for strategic gameplay.

## Notable For
- Developed *Total Annihilation*, a groundbreaking real-time strategy game
- Founded by Ron Gilbert, a prominent figure in the video game industry
- Operated under Atari, Inc. and Humongous Entertainment
- Dissolved in 2000, marking the end of an independent game development era
- Produced video games for personal use, contributing to the genre's evolution

## Body
### Overview
Cavedog Entertainment was an American video game developer founded in 1996 by Ron Gilbert. The company specialized in creating video games for personal use and is best known for developing *Total Annihilation*, a real-time strategy game that became a landmark title in the genre.

### Founding and Leadership
Cavedog Entertainment was founded by Ron Gilbert, an American video game designer, producer, and engineer. Gilbert, who had previously worked on projects like *Maniac Mansion* and *Monkey Island*, brought his expertise to Cavedog Entertainment, shaping its creative direction.

### Parent Organizations
The company was operated under Atari, Inc. and Humongous Entertainment as parent organizations. This affiliation provided resources and support, allowing Cavedog Entertainment to focus on game development.

### Notable Works
*Total Annihilation* was the most notable work produced by Cavedog Entertainment. Released in 1997, the game introduced innovative gameplay mechanics and set new standards for real-time strategy games. Its success contributed to the company's reputation in the industry.

### Dissolution
Cavedog Entertainment dissolved in 2000, marking the end of its operations. The dissolution reflected the broader trends in the video game industry, including the rise of larger studios and the changing dynamics of independent development.

### Legacy
Despite its short lifespan, Cavedog Entertainment left a lasting impact on the gaming community. *Total Annihilation* remains a significant title in the real-time strategy genre, influencing future developers and setting a standard for strategic gameplay. The company's dissolution also highlighted the challenges faced by independent game developers in the evolving industry landscape.

## References

1. BnF authorities
2. Virtual International Authority File
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. VideoGameGeek