Star Wars Episode 1: Racer
Image: LucasArts

In 1999, Lucas released Star Wars Episode 1: Racer, a Star Wars spin-off title for the PC and N64, based on the podracing sequences from The Phantom Menace. It let you select from a number of pilots, including Anakin Skywalker, and then put your podracing skills to the test against a bunch of new and returning characters in familiar competitions like the Boonta Classic.

While it should be noted that the film it was spun out of has somewhat of a complicated legacy today, most critics seemed to agree that Episode 1: Racer was a pretty fun time, which makes it unsurprising that it later received rereleases on modern consoles, such as the Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, and Xbox One.

Something you may have noticed, however, if you successfully managed to beat the game (either back in the day or more recently) is that it features one of the odder credits in video game history. During the list of names, you'll be able to make out a mention of Lucasfilm Games/LucasArts legend and Grim Fandango creator Tim Schafer, under the title "Never actively tried to sabotage the project".

Fans have tried to ask Schafer about this credit in the past, but it appears at least, he's never gotten around to answering this before. Earlier today, though, on Twitter, the user @TruckleChuckle put the question to Schafer again. And, in reply, Schafer finally gave his memory of how it came about:

"The Podracing team sat right next to the Grim team at LucasArts. Once, hanging out in their office, I asked, 'What credit are you going to give me on Podracer?'

"'Why would we give you a credit? You didn't do anything to help make this project!'

"I said, 'True, but on the other hand, I did nothing to hurt it.' They just couldn't shake the logic I guess!"

As if settling this mystery wasn't enough, Schafer also made a pledge to followers asking him not to interfere with any potential attempts to make a follow-up.

In reply, he told fans: "Consider it done. I will do nothing to stop Podracer 2."

[source twitter.com]