The Oregon Trail, a classic educational video game that has become a nostalgic touchstone for generations of players, is the subject of the season 5 premiere of Version History, a podcast from The Verge. The episode features David Pierce, along with gaming journalist Chris Grant and Philip Bouchard, who was the designer and team leader behind the most iconic version of the game. They explore the game’s origins, its complex legacy, and even delve into the controversial question of whether anyone ever actually died of dysentery in the game—a detail that has sparked much debate over the years. First released in the 1980s, The Oregon Trail was designed to teach students about 19th-century American history through a simulated journey along the Oregon Trail. The game became a staple in schools, known for its challenging gameplay and grim consequences for poor decisions, such as illness or accidents. Despite its educational intent, the game has also been the subject of criticism and discussion, particularly around its portrayal of historical events and its use of violence and mortality as learning tools. The Version History episode not only discusses the cultural and historical impact of The Oregon Trail but also sets the stage for the season’s broader exploration of technology and its evolution. Upcoming episodes will cover topics like the TI-84 graphing calculator, the One Laptop Per Child initiative, Chromebooks, LeapPad tablets, and even the overhead projector. These episodes aim to highlight how technology has shaped education and daily life over the decades. In addition to the podcast, The Verge will stream a live playthrough of The Oregon Trail on its YouTube channel, giving viewers a chance to experience the game firsthand. Listeners can access the Version History episodes through The Verge’s subscription service. For further reading and context, the episode includes links to articles from sources like Gaming Historian, The Atlantic, Epic Games, died-of-dysentery.com, and the BBC, offering a comprehensive look at the game’s influence and legacy.