The dream was to create a new kind of software for children that would allow them to explore and freely express their creativity. The first of these “digital storybooks” was The Manhole, followed by Cosmic Osmo and Spelunx. 

In 1991 Cyan began work on Myst, a game intended to target a more mature audience. The desire was to create an experience that felt more like a real place than a game. A surreal adventure through a fully-realized 3D environment, with a deeper story and characters the player could learn about through exploration. The public response was nothing short of phenomenal.

To date, sales for Myst and its sequel Riven have sold in excess of 15 million copies worldwide. Myst also holds the honor of being the best-selling video game of the 20th century; a record that was not surpassed until 2003.

Cyan has always been drawn to pushing the possibilities of interactive storytelling forward. Uru (Myst Online) allowed players to join the adventure of a lifetime in the caverns of D’ni, a neverending world which let players connect and explore together. It spawned a thriving community and is still available to explore for free.

Cyan is always embracing the latest technology, and has been an Unreal Engine-led studio since the 2016 release of Obduction. Cyan balances world-class artistry and worldbuilding with a small but passionate team to create games with incredible richness and depth.

Today Cyan carries on the dream that began in 1987: A studio focused on delivering incredible, immersive game experiences while maintaining a one-of-a-kind, collaborative atmosphere.