Rand and Robyn Miller, the co-founders of Cyan Worlds, found success with their iconic adventure video game Myst. After the game’s release in 1993, the brothers decided to build a new headquarters for their company, naming it “The House that Myst Built.” Despite considering locations like Hawaii, the brothers ultimately settled on Spokane, Washington, due to its affordability, four distinct seasons, proximity to outdoor activities, and minimal traffic. People they attempted to recruit from larger cities were surprised by the benefits of living in Spokane, especially those who were thinking about raising a family.
Rand and Robyn grew up moving around the United States but eventually settled in Spokane after their parents moved there. Over the years, Spokane has evolved with more entertainment options, a reinvigorated downtown, and various cultural amenities. However, with the increase in population, housing prices have risen, making Spokane slightly less affordable compared to the national average. Despite this, Spokane continues to be an attractive place to live and work, particularly for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of bigger cities.
One significant change for Cyan Worlds has been the rise of remote work, driven by the pandemic. Originally employing mainly Spokane-based staff, the company now has around 25% of employees based elsewhere. This shift has enabled Cyan to hire talent from different locations, with recent hires choosing to stay in places like Los Angeles. The flexibility of remote work has opened up new opportunities for the company, allowing them to bring in diverse talent without needing to relocate.
Currently, the Cyan team is working on a modern version of the game Riven, a remake of the historic puzzle adventure. As part of their success, Rand Miller jokes that they didn’t spend the proceeds from Myst on luxury items but instead invested in building their headquarters. Owning their corporate home has been one of the best decisions they made, providing stability through the ups and downs of the industry. Their headquarters in Spokane has become a symbol of their success as a company and a testament to the benefits of long-term planning and investment.
Rand Miller reflects on the journey of Cyan Worlds, from starting the company with his brother in 1987 to the success of Myst and beyond. The decision to settle in Spokane and build their headquarters there has proven to be a strategic move, offering stability and cost-saving benefits over the years. The evolution of Spokane as a city has provided more opportunities for entertainment and cultural experiences, despite the increased cost of living. While facing challenges like rising housing prices and the impact of remote work, Cyan Worlds continues to thrive and evolve, adapting to the changing landscape of the gaming industry.
In conclusion, Cyan Worlds’ headquarters in Spokane, Washington, stands as a testament to the success of the company and the vision of its founders. The decision to build a physical home for their virtual creations has provided stability and a sense of permanence in a rapidly changing industry. Despite challenges such as rising costs and the shift to remote work, Cyan Worlds continues to innovate and adapt, staying true to their roots while embracing new opportunities. As they work on remaking Riven and expanding their portfolio, the future looks bright for Cyan Worlds, rooted in the foundations they laid in “The House that Myst Built.”
