In the beginning...

1.) Multiple computers with one client running on each. Each computer controlled with its own mouse/keyboard, possibly jury-rigged so that pushing one button on one would also push one button on another (think of a physical bridge, similar to Kromtor's picture for EVE, I believe).

2.) Multiple computers with one client running on each, but a hardware multiplexer allowing for one keyboard/mouse to be broadcast to multiple clients. I believe Fur moved off this system a few months ago, so others may still be using it.

3.) Multiple computers with one client running on each, but rudimentary software broadcasting on a one-to-one mapping between computers. I'm not sure how long this step lasted, as the next step was likely quickly developed...

4.) Multiple computers with one client running on each, but software allowing for broadcasting on each while allowing the user to make custom key mappings. Now pushing 'g' on one computer can sent 'ctrl-p' on a remote computer. Octopus, AHK and Keyclone likely the dominant choice during this time.

5.) Single computer with multiple clients running, or a mixture of multiple computers running more than one account. This development likely due to computing power increasing. With the hardware performance increased enough to allow a single computer, hardware development falls out of the picture of the multiboxing evolution.

6.) Mouse broadcasting become a reality. HKN and ISBoxer allow for the functionality, with Keyclone close behind. ISBoxer perfects the craft through window rendering while HKN offers a great solution for those users preferring a free program.

7.) Incorporation of macro generation through the software thereby allowing for teams to mix and match with ease. ISBoxer is alone at the top.

8.) what's next???

Long story short, I'm pumped about the US win in the World Cup and jacked up on caffeine, so I'm bored. I could be totally off in the evolution of multiboxing as I didn't truly start until stage 5. Let me know where you think I'm wrong, or give me your view of the evelution! Some old-timers likely have a much better view of the history of our hobby.