FASA

FASA Corporation

Company type	Private
Industry	Role-playing game, Miniature wargaming, Board game
Founded	1980
Founder	Jordan Weisman, L. Ross Babcock III
Defunct	2001
Key people	Jordan Weisman, L. Ross Babcock III
Products	BattleTech, Shadowrun, Earthdawn

FASA Corporation was an American publisher of role-playing games, wargames, and board games. The company was founded in 1980 by Jordan Weisman and L. Ross Babcock III in Chicago, Illinois. FASA is an acronym for "Freedonian Aeronautics and Space Administration," a fictional organization from the Marx Brothers film Duck Soup.

History

FASA began as a publisher of supplements for the Traveller role-playing game. The company soon expanded its product line to include original games, the most notable of which are BattleTech, Shadowrun, and Earthdawn.

BattleTech

BattleTech is a science fiction wargame that involves players controlling mecha known as BattleMechs. The game was first published in 1984 and has since spawned numerous expansions, novels, and a video game series.

Shadowrun

Shadowrun is a cyberpunk-themed role-playing game set in a dystopian future where magic and technology coexist. First published in 1989, Shadowrun has become one of FASA's most enduring properties, leading to multiple editions, novels, and video games.

Earthdawn

Earthdawn is a fantasy role-playing game set in a world recovering from a magical apocalypse. Released in 1993, Earthdawn is notable for its detailed setting and unique mechanics.

Closure and Legacy

FASA ceased active operations in 2001. The rights to many of its properties were sold to other companies. WizKids acquired the rights to BattleTech and Shadowrun, while Living Room Games and later RedBrick Limited took over Earthdawn.

Despite its closure, FASA's games continue to have a significant impact on the role-playing and wargaming communities. The company's innovative designs and rich settings have left a lasting legacy.

Notable Products

• BattleTech
• Shadowrun
• Earthdawn
• Renegade Legion
• Crimson Skies

See Also

• WizKids
• Living Room Games
• RedBrick Limited
• Role-playing game
• Wargame
• Board game