Writing your own rules in the business of computer games

By combining his love for computer games and business, Trevor Chan Ming-yuk created his own entrepreneurial vision as founder and chief executive officer of Enlight Software Limited.

'I have been fascinated with computer games since I was very young and was always attempting to create my own games using my old Apple II,' Mr Chan said.

It wasn't long before he had created a game based on building a business empire. In 1995, he launched 'Capitalist', a simulated stock market game that allows players to experience running their own multi-billion dollar business. Leading US publisher Interactive Magic distributed Capitalist, which has been hailed as one of the best economic games.

Harvard and Stanford University incorporated the award-winning game into their business management courses shortly after its release.

'Most people spend their lifetime working for companies but never have the good fortune to run a business of their own, which is where the fun is,' he said. 'Our games aim to provide a virtual reality where all players are bosses of their own companies and get no less fun than their real-life counterparts in activities such as expansions, acquisitions and takeovers.'

As if following the Enlight dictum that modest company growth is a sin against nature, the firm increased the number of its design staff to 30 last year, moved to larger offices in Wan Chai and launched its own distribution company in the United States.