80's Science fiction, computer simulated world /s

[Matt]

Two friends, one of them nicknamed Worm, write a computer program which simulates an autonomous fantasy world which grows in size and complexity until they both lose perspective and Worm begins to lose his grip on reality. All he can think about are the kingdoms and struggles in the world they've created, not unlike Dwarf Fortress.

Does anyone besides me remember this one? I wrote a book report on it once; wish I had kept it.

[Robert]

Gamearth? Cannot remember the author

Robert C
I have some posts of my own much earlier and have been unable to get back here to check. good luck

[Matt]

Close, but this was two guys, one named Worm, and a computer. Darn!

[NoNameLoves2Read]

The Gadget Factor
Is this it? It sounded interesting so I did a little research and found this one. Goodreads doesn't have a photo but if you look on Amazon you will get a description and a photo.
http://www.amazon.com/dp/0451135369/?tag=stackoverfl08-20

[Matt]

Yes! Thanks so much!