Matrix Games to End Publishing of Computer Harpoon

TonyE · April 5

Matrix Games will stop publishing Computer Harpoon no later than April 30, 2025.

This action is at the direction of the rights holders of Computer Harpoon. The team at HarpGamer has been dedicated to maintaining and developing Computer Harpoon. However, we do not hold the rights to the game nor to publish the game. As a result, Harpoon Classic/Commander's/Ultimate and Harpoon 3/ANW licenses will no longer be available for purchase.

If you would like to buy a copy, visit https://www.matrixgames.com/game/larry-bonds-harpoon-ultimate-edition

This ends development of a simulation package first published in December of 1989, 35 years ago as of April, 2025. That is an impressive run of which I've been a part of as a player since 1992, tester since 2002, and programmer since 2003.

We had hoped Matrix would publish a patch for Harpoon Classic in March but due to the impending end of publishing, declined to invest the resources in packaging the update I made available to them. I have asked the rights holders if we can distribute a patch but haven't received a response so while I'm hopeful, it is not guaranteed. At the very least, the latest beta builds don't expire until 2030.

The community's dedication has been instrumental in Computer Harpoon’s longevity. A key focus has been on enabling community-created enhancements through ExportDLLs, allowing players to expand and customize the game experience without requiring updates to the core program.

Harpooners like donaldseadog in Australia have developed innovative tools that demonstrate the potential for community-driven enhancements, including platform modifications, weapon adjustments, and expanded data capacity. While the core game's distribution will end, those of you with licenses can continue to experience new functionality thanks the community, which kept the game going since the release of Harpoon 97.

We intend to keep HarpGamer up and running for many years to come, tweaking platforms, writing scenarios, and crafting addons. The Harpoon community has always been vital to its success. We encourage players to continue supporting and expanding the game.