Due to the success of the Mario franchise, id Software, and specifically John Carmack, wanted to recreate that kind of fast side-scrolling gameplay but for IBM PC's at the time. Carmack came up with "adaptive tile refresh," a method that allows the screen to move along with the player, only adding in newly visible objects on screen. They actually used this first to ask Nintendo if they can port Super Mario Bros. 3 to PC, and while they were impressed by the demo they created for it, they declined saying they weren't interested in the PC market. Dejected, they felt like using this new technology to produce a platformer in the style of Mario, and the Commander Keen franchise is born.

While I prefer the second trilogy of games over the first one, I can't deny how fun this trilogy can be on its own merits, especially this one. The gameplay may be a bit simplistic, but it uses its simplicity effectively to create a memorable experience. The iconic creature designs, the pogo-stick that allows you to traverse the levels in greater leaps, and great level design combine for a fun experience. It would be improved upon in the second installment if I remember correctly.