Maxis

Maxis Software was founded as a video game developer and is now a brand name of Electronic Arts (EA). Its initial software title was the seminal SimCity, a city simulation and planning game. Maxis is also the creator of the best-selling computer game of all time, The Sims. These two titles and their related products are the brand's most popular and successful lines.

Most of the Maxis titles are simulation-based, though none are considered traditional simulations. Maxis founder Wright likens them as "digital playgrounds." Maxis has also released games developed by other production houses, such as A-Train, sometimes with less than stellar results.

Contrary to popular myth, the company's name was not based on the words "six AM" spelled backwards. Rather, it was derived from a formula suggested by Jeff Braun's father: computer game companies should have two-syllable names and should include an 'x'. It was noticed later that 'Maxis' is six AM backwards.