# Stardock

> Windows software developer

**Wikidata**: [Q429316](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q429316)  
**Wikipedia**: [English](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stardock)  
**Source**: https://4ort.xyz/entity/stardock

## Summary
Stardock is a privately held software developer specializing in Windows applications and video games, founded in 1991. Known for titles like *Offworld Trading Company* and its expansion packs, the company is also recognized for its utility software and ownership of platforms like Neowin and WinCustomize.

## Key Facts
- Founded in 1991 in Livonia, Michigan, with headquarters later relocated to Plymouth, Michigan.
- CEO Brad Wardell has led the company since August 1991.
- Generated $15 million in revenue as of 2009.
- Develops both software utilities (e.g., Object Desktop) and video games (e.g., *Offworld Trading Company* and its DLCs).
- Owns subsidiary brands including Neowin, WinCustomize, and the *Galactic Civilizations* franchise.
- Privately held company operating in the video game and software industries.
- Active on social media platforms like Twitter (@Stardock) and Facebook (official.stardock).

## FAQs
### Q: What does Stardock develop?
A: Stardock develops Windows software, including utility applications like Object Desktop and video games such as *Offworld Trading Company* and its expansion packs.

### Q: Who is the CEO of Stardock?
A: Brad Wardell has been the CEO of Stardock since August 1991.

### Q: Where is Stardock located?
A: Stardock is headquartered in Plymouth, Michigan, and was originally founded in Livonia, Michigan.

### Q: What are some notable products by Stardock?
A: Notable products include the *Offworld Trading Company* game series, Object Desktop, and ownership of platforms like Neowin and WinCustomize.

### Q: Is Stardock a public company?
A: No, Stardock is a privately held company.

## Why It Matters
Stardock has played a significant role in the Windows software ecosystem by developing both utility applications and video games. Its contributions to the gaming industry, particularly with *Offworld Trading Company* and its numerous expansions, demonstrate a commitment to strategy and simulation genres. Additionally, Stardock’s ownership of platforms like Neowin and WinCustomize highlights its influence in tech communities. The company’s longevity since 1991 and its privately held status reflect a stable and independent approach to software development, making it a notable entity in the industry.

## Notable For
- Developing *Offworld Trading Company* and its extensive lineup of expansion packs (2016–2021).
- Owning and operating tech platforms like Neowin and WinCustomize.
- Creating utility software such as Object Desktop for Windows customization.
- Being a long-standing privately held company in the software industry since 1991.
- Leadership under CEO Brad Wardell for over three decades.

## Body
### History and Leadership
Stardock was founded in 1991 in Livonia, Michigan, and later moved its headquarters to Plymouth, Michigan. Brad Wardell has served as CEO since August 1991, guiding the company through its growth in the software and gaming industries.

### Products and Developments
Stardock is known for its Windows software, including utility applications like Object Desktop, which allows users to customize their desktop experience. In the gaming sector, the company developed *Offworld Trading Company*, a real-time strategy game set on Mars, and released multiple expansion packs between 2016 and 2021, such as *Jupiter's Forge* and *The Europa Wager*.

### Subsidiary Brands
Stardock owns several subsidiary brands, including Neowin (a tech news site), WinCustomize (a platform for Windows customization), and the *Galactic Civilizations* franchise (a series of strategy games).

### Financial and Operational Details
As of 2009, Stardock reported $15 million in revenue. The company operates as a privately held entity, focusing on the video game and software industries. It maintains an active presence on social media, including Twitter and Facebook.

### Industry Recognition
Stardock’s products and contributions have earned it a place in the software and gaming industries, with a strong emphasis on Windows-based applications and strategy games.

## Schema Markup
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## References

1. [Source](https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradwardell/)
2. BnF authorities
3. Freebase Data Dumps. 2013
4. National Software Reference Library
5. [Source](http://km.aifb.kit.edu/services/crunchbase/)
6. [Crain's Detroit Business. 2010](https://www.crainsdetroit.com/article/20100314/C02/303149981/super-secure-it-center-becomes-economic-development-tool)
7. Quora
8. VideoGameGeek