Another world Game Developers in Japan`s 1991

Zaboru led the couple into the ZAGE office, where Yugo and Yuna were busy assembling ZEPS units and studying their blueprints. He guided them toward a ready-to-play console connected to a TV.

"So, Mr. Yamaguchi, this is my console—the ZAGE Entertainment Playing System, or ZEPS for short. Let's see what you think," Zaboru said, gesturing toward the system.

Shinsuke examined the ZEPS, his eyes lighting up slightly in admiration of its sleek black and gray design. He reached for the controller, turning it over in his hands. The directional pad felt solid, and the buttons—X and O on the right, with Start and Select in the middle—were well-placed. The grip was comfortable and ergonomic.

"Wow, this controller feels great," Shinsuke said, testing the buttons.

Zaboru smirked. "Glad to hear that. Now, let's boot up a game—one of the best I've developed so far. It's called Super Mario Bros."

"Yeah! Super Mario Bros. is the best!" Yugo shouted excitedly.

Yuna immediately smacked him on the shoulder. "Idiot, read the room!" she hissed.

Shinsuke's lips twitched at the unexpected outburst, but he quickly focused on the screen. As the iconic Super Mario Bros. theme played, a small Italian character appeared, ready to jump and run through the colorful world. Unlike the games Shinsuke had seen before, this one wasn't just a black screen with basic pixelated shapes. It had detailed backgrounds, animated elements, and fluid movements. There were orange bricks marking the ground, fluffy white clouds in the sky, and a sense of depth that added immersion.

As he started playing, he found himself completely engrossed. The game had tight controls, an engaging challenge, and music that was catchy yet unobtrusive. The more he played, the more he was drawn in, maneuvering Mario across obstacles, smashing bricks, and stomping on enemies.

Minutes passed, then twenty. He hadn't even realized how much time had gone by until his wife pinched his side.

"Ouch!" Shinsuke yelped, suddenly snapping out of his trance. He glanced around, realizing that everyone was watching him with amused expressions. Clearing his throat, he tried to regain his composure.

"Ahem… I must admit, Renkonan-san, this exceeded my expectations. I love it! If all your games are this high in quality and can be played at home, then this could be revolutionary!"

Zaboru nodded. "That's the plan. But keep in mind, different people have different tastes in games. That's why ZAGE aims to provide a diverse selection." (*True diversity that game needs , if you know what i mean LOL.)

Shinsuke grinned. "I'm convinced, Renkonan-san. If I want to work here, what's the process? Do I need to submit an application, or how does it work?"

Zaboru smiled. "Let's head to my office. I'll interview you now. Ms. Yamaguchi, I'll need to delay signing your contract for a bit. Will that be alright?"

Sayuri nodded. "Of course, take your time. In the meantime, can I try the ZEPS myself?"

"Go ahead," Zaboru said. "Yugo, Yuna, keep her company."

The two nodded and immediately engaged Sayuri, chatting about their experiences working at ZAGE so far.

Zaboru and Shinsuke sat across from each other in the office.

"So, Yamaguchi-san," Zaboru began, "you must already be aware of the current state of the video game industry. Ever since the Atari crash, people have assumed that videogames are a dead form of entertainment."

"Please, call me Shin," Shinsuke replied. "And yes, I know the situation very well."

Zaboru nodded. "Alright, Shin-san, do you believe video games can thrive again?"

Shinsuke leaned back, considering his answer. "Before playing Super Mario Bros., I would have said no. I thought it was impossible for anyone to revive the gaming industry. But after playing your game and seeing what you're doing, I'm 100% certain that it can be done."

Zaboru smirked. "Then tell me—how would you promote ZEPS to the public?"

Shinsuke grinned. "Oh, I have plenty of ideas, Renkonan-san. First, we need a concrete release date. Once we have that, we can build anticipation through pre-release marketing. ZAGE needs to generate public awareness long before launch. We'll utilize print ads, gaming expos, and targeted promotions. But the details? Well, that would be my job if you hire me."

Zaboru was impressed. Shinsuke spoke with confidence, and it was clear that he had already started forming a strategy in his mind.

"I like the sound of that," Zaboru said. "I'm convinced. Now, let's discuss salary."

Zaboru leaned forward. "As you know, ZAGE is still in its early stages. I can't offer an extravagant salary yet. My proposal is the same as your wife's—12,000 yen per week. However, I will fully cover all your promotional expenses. How does that sound?"

Shinsuke smiled and extended his hand. "I have no issue with that, Zaboru-san. I have a strong feeling this company is going to be huge, and I want to be part of it."

Zaboru shook his hand. "Heh, let's make that happen. Let's sign the contract."

Calling Sayuri into the office, the three of them went over the contract details. Soon after, both Sayuri and Shinsuke signed, making their employment official.

"Welcome to ZAGE, Mr. and Mrs. Yamaguchi," Zaboru said.

The couple smiled, shaking his hand.

As they joined Yugo and Yuna in casual conversation, Shinsuke suddenly stood up.

"Renkonan-san," he said.

"Call me Zaboru, Shin-san."

Shinsuke nodded. "Zaboru-san, I'd like to start working right away. I need to scout locations for selling ZEPS. I want to identify strategic stores where we can distribute it when it launches."

Zaboru raised an eyebrow, impressed by his work ethic. He reached into his drawer, pulling out 15,000 yen.

"Here's the budget for your scouting trip," he said.

Before Shinsuke could pocket the money, Sayuri interjected.

"Shinsuke-san, as finance manager, I expect a full report on how you spend this 15,000 yen, along with a detailed list of store locations and addresses."

Shinsuke's eye twitched. He glanced at his wife, who was staring at him with unwavering authority. For a moment, he considered protesting, but he knew better.

"Of course, Sayu-chan," he said with a sigh. 

Sayuri retort "When at work i expect you to call me professionally Shinsuke-san"

Shinsuke eye twitched again "Yes Sayuri-san i understand"

Zaboru was impressed with Sayuri 'Wow! She's really pro, she doesnt even hesitate to say that to her husband' meanwhile Yugo shivers looking at Sayuri and thinks 'Damn She's scary! ,better not mess with her' and somehow Yuna also think the same

With that, he left the office, determined to begin his new mission. Meanwhile, ZAGE took another step toward professionalism and success.

To be continued...