Another world Game Developers in Japan`s 1991

Thursday, 3 April 1994 – Japan

Zaboru sat in his office, reviewing his itinerary and packing notes. He was preparing for his upcoming trip to America this Friday, where ZEPS 2 was set to launch on April 6. His presence there was essential.

Back in Japan, the situation at the Japanese branch was steady. Just this week—following last week's successful ZEPS 2 release—Zaboru had finalized important deals with both Philips and AKAI.

With Philips, Zaboru secured a partnership to collaborate on several key projects, formalized through a 15-year agreement with the option to extend. One of the major topics discussed was the upcoming DVD project. Zaboru had already mentioned the idea to Jan Timmer, who was genuinely excited about the potential. However, Zaboru explained that he needed more time to provide full blueprints or technical insight, as he was currently focused on business matters in the USA—a delay Jan was completely understanding of. Zaboru also revealed that the next ZAGE console would move to CD-based media, a shift that further energized Jan, given the long-term implications for innovation and market expansion.

Next, with AKAI—Zaboru acquired 40% of their shares, making him the majority owner, while Hyoga Akai (the AKAI CEO) and Akechi Hamazou each retained 30%. In a strategic meeting, Zaboru laid out his vision: he wanted AKAI to develop a more affordable alternative to the high-priced Nokia phones dominating the market. Hyoga initially frowned at the idea, but Zaboru quickly explained his reasoning—current cell phones were prohibitively expensive, and a cheaper, functional alternative would tap into an underserved market.

To support this vision, ZAGE invested capital into AKAI to kickstart development on the new phone. But Zaboru's plan didn't stop at affordability—he also wanted the phones to offer something Nokia lacked: built-in games. Classics like Space Impact or Snake didn't yet exist on Nokia devices in this world, and Zaboru saw an opportunity to create phones that not only connected people but entertained them. It was a bold move that could redefine what people expected from mobile technology. Besides, whenever people see a phone branded with "ZAGE," they automatically assume it must have games built in!

Now, in his office, Zaboru leans back with a satisfied sigh. "Well, everything went smoothly in Japan," he murmurs, a small chuckle escaping as he bites into a cookie Ayumi had baked for him. She'd be joining him in the USA soon—she already had a house there, making the transition even easier.

"Let's hope things go just as well in the States," he says with a hopeful smile.

Just then, a call comes through. It's James from the USA, and he's brimming with excitement. He and Ryan from Emerald Wings claim to have a lot of good news to share—news that instantly sparks Zaboru's curiosity.

"Heh, now I'm really wondering what they've got for me."

With that, Zaboru shifts focus. This month, ZAGE will hold off on releasing any new titles for ZEPS 2. He wants players to savor the eight current launch games without distraction. Instead, his attention turns to the ZGB, for which he plans to release two new titles: Harvest Moon ZGB and Mario Tennis. Zaboru wants players to experience a relaxing farm simulator on the go with Harvest Moon ZGB, while Mario Tennis is simply too fun to pass up—he's excited to bring that energy to the handheld. The capable Osaka branch will handle development for both titles, with a planned delivery by the end of April.

Meanwhile, the Tokyo branch is ramping up to develop a brand-new arcade game: Joe & Mac: The Caveman Ninja. A delightfully goofy, over-the-top action game that Zaboru adored in his previous life, it blends slapstick humor with fast-paced co-op gameplay. He believes it'll strike a funny chord while offering fun, chaotic sessions for both solo and multiplayer fans. Zaboru has greenlit its release for next month, confident it'll be a crowd-pleaser in arcades.

Zaboru smiles. "Alright then, let's get ready. But first—I need to talk to Dad."

He makes his way to Zanichi's office, though it's empty as usual. As ZAGE's CTO, Zanichi is always immersed in hands-on work. Sure enough, Zaboru finds him in the developer area, deep in conversation with the staff, sleeves rolled up as he gestures toward a screen.

"Dad," Zaboru calls out.

Zanichi turns, a knowing smile spreading across his face. "It's okay, boss. Leave the Japan branch to me. Safe trip."

Zaboru chuckles. His dad really knows him very well. Then Zaboru nods and goes home early to prepare his luggage and say farewell to his mom and little sister.

Zaboru arrives home to find his luggage packed and neatly stacked by the door. His mom, Keiko, does one final check, fussing over the little things to make sure he hasn't forgotten anything. His younger sister, Sanika, pipes up with a familiar request: she wants a souvenir—again—from America, making Zaboru chuckle warmly.

Soon after, Ayumi pulls up with her driver, Junjou. She steps out and warmly greets Keiko and Sanika, sharing a few light words before joining Zaboru. Together, they head to the airport, ready to leave Japan behind and step into the next chapter of the ZEPS 2 journey in America.

To be continued.

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