Dan Higgins Mini-Interview

Q: Tell us a little about yourself and what your job is with respect to Empire Earth.

A: I'm Dan, a dog fanatic and AI programmer at Stainless Steel Studios! My tasks for Empire Earth have included: Pathfinding, Computer Player Military, Ambient Sounds, Animal AI.

Q: What is your personal favorite feature or part of Empire Earth?

A: C'mon!! That's like trying to choose a favorite dog! How about I give you my top 3:
Scenario Editor - Keith Patella, Chad Dawson, and Eggman (Chris Theriault) have all done an amazing job on our scenario editor. It's the best scenario editor I've ever seen.
Computer Player - Ok, so I'm biased. Bob, Chad, and I work hard on making the most enjoyable computer player opponents. I'm proud of what we have accomplished.
Graphics - The magic of Mike Tatro and Scott Marison. And, of course, our great artists! I won't say any more on this, but take it from me… they rock!

Q: What's the best thing about working at SSSI?

A: Without a doubt, it's the team at Stainless Steel Studios. This team is amazing! These people constantly surprise me with their creativity and technical abilities. In addition to being leaders in the industry, everyone I work with is really nice. No one here is arrogant, and no one person runs the show. At Stainless Steel Studios, we all participate as equals.

Q: What's the first thing you'll do after Empire Earth is released?

A: Take the afternoon off, watch a Dexter's Laboratory marathon, and then start on the next game!

Q: Are you a morning person or a night person, and why do you think so?

A: I was always a night person while I was growing up and also in college. Now that I'm married, and my wife is a morning person, I've transformed into a morning person. I kinda like it now because I get a lot done around here at 6:30 am.

Q: What's the coolest place you've ever been to? What made it the coolest?

A: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts. I'm a dedicated New Englander. This is the most amazing place to live.

Q: Besides games, what other hobbies or interests do you have?

A: Pokemon, Easy-Bake Oven parties… ya'know… the normal stuff.