[chongli]

To code something like Dwarf Fortress takes an uncommon level of dedication. The project has been going for a decade and a half!

It's only recently that the project has been paying off via community funding/patronage. A great deal of those early years must have been very difficult for them.

[_jal]

> It's only recently that the project has been paying off via community funding/patronage.

Another way it is like a PhD - a ton of up-front work for an uncertain payoff, largely dependent on the whim of others.

[wiz21c]

mostly my professional life too. Lesson learned : a ton of up front work doesn't lead to success. Replace "work" by "delegate, socialize, have lots of luck" and you'll go much further :-)

[robotresearcher]

Also work. Don’t do a PhD if the work is a problem. Do a PhD only if the work is in your bones. And also socialize, and do other luck-maximizing activities. But work is indicated.

[robotresearcher]

A PhD spot is an opportunity, not a gravy train.

[bspammer]

I know it’s silly but for me the most impressive part of the whole project is that he doesn’t use version control. I can’t even comprehend how that’s possible.