The original source code for the Apple II version of Prince of Persia had remained forgotten for 10 years, until it was discovered in Jordan Mechner's father's closet. Mechner's father was the composer for Prince of Persia, as well as Mechner's previous title, Karateka.

The game's developer, Jordan Mechner, wanted the prince's movements be as fluent and life like as possible. To do this, he video taped his brother, David, going through the prince's motions and rotoscoped each frame into the game.