A strange little side quest
The mechanics around Prince of Persia have roots that stretch far beyond modern browsers. Early computer role-playing games helped turn rules, inventories, exploration and character progression into systems that could support long-form digital adventures. The broader history adds one more wrinkle. Atari's Gran Trak 10 from 1974 is recognized as the first arcade racing video game. The details change, but the appeal of learning a system and trying again is remarkably persistent.