Johannes Gutenberg was a German goldsmith and inventor best known for the Gutenberg press - an innovative printing machine that used movable type. His most important contributions to printing are: the invention of a process for mass-producing movable type; the use of oil-based ink; and the use of a wooden printing press similar to the agricultural screw presses of the period. His truly epochal invention was the combination of these elements into a practical system which allowed the mass production of printed books and was economically viable for printers and readers alike.

It was in Strasbourg in 1440 when Gutenberg unveiled the secret of printing based on his research, mysteriously entitled Kunst und Aventur (art and enterprise). By 1450, the press was in operation, and a German poem had been printed, possibly the first item to be printed. In 1455 Gutenberg completed his 42-line Bible, known as the Gutenberg Bible. About 180 copies were printed, most on paper and some on vellum. As well, some Latin grammars and thousands of indulgences for the church were printed using this device.

In January 1465, Gutenberg's achievements were finally recognized and he was given the title Hofmann (gentleman of the court) by von Nassau. This honor included a stipend, an annual court outfit, as well as 2,180 litres of grain and 2,000 litres of wine tax-free. Johannes Gutenberg can be credited not only for a revolution in the production of books, but also for fostering rapid development in the sciences, arts and religion through the transmission of texts.

To honor this invention that changed the world, 1100AD team gives to all players "Holy Bible" artifact.