Another world Game Developers in Japan`s 1991-Chapter 460 - 412: ZAGE’s New Team – Hardware Specialist

After wrapping up the earlier meetings, Zaboru turned his focus to the next item on his agenda—creating a new development team tailored for future projects, particularly arcade machines with unique hardware configurations. While he had experienced these in his previous life—steering wheel setups, motorcycle simulators, dance platforms, and more—he never fully understood their internal mechanics. Determined to recreate them, he planned to establish a dedicated division within ZAGE to handle this vision. This would be the final expansion at the main office before the new Osaka or U.S. branches officially opened.

Zaboru made his way to the office of Zanichi, ZAGE's Chief Technology Officer and his father. With Zanichi's deep expertise in team structuring and project planning, he was the ideal person to consult Zanichi was well known at Sonaya as a capable leader, though often described as lacking motivation. He preferred to work strictly within his set goals, rarely going beyond what was required. However, at ZAGE, his dedication had been unmatched—driven by both purpose and pride. It was this renewed commitment that helped ZAGE thrive under his technical leadership.

Entering the room, Zaboru called out, "Excuse me, Dad. I'd like to discuss something."

Zanichi looked up from a series of sketches spread across his desk. "Of course, Boss. What's on your mind?"

Taking a seat across from him, Zaboru laid out the concept. "I want to create a new division called the Hardware Specialist Team. This group won't be like our current R&D, which focuses on home consoles and handhelds. Instead, they'll specialize in developing custom hardware—arcade units that push boundaries."

Zanichi tilted his head slightly. "Custom hardware, like what?"

Without missing a beat, Zaboru pulled out a folder and handed over a few concept sketches. One was of an arcade machine featuring a fully functional steering wheel. Another showed a motorcycle-style arcade cabinet with handlebars and a saddle seat. Although the designs were still rough, each included detailed notes and speculative mechanics , which showed that while Zaboru had a strong creative vision, he didn't yet fully grasp how to implement the technical aspects—and he was still actively learning and studying to bridge that gap.

"I want to recreate arcade machines like these," Zaboru explained. "I don't have all the answers yet, especially regarding the internal systems, but I'm confident we'll figure it out with the right team in place. I need people who can help take this from concept to reality." Zaboru then continued, "In the future, I want ZAGE to operate numerous arcades—not just one or two, but a full network. This will be our first step toward that vision."

Zanichi studied the sketches in silence, his eyes scanning the page intently. Then he smiled. "You're serious about this. It's ambitious, but I like it. You've got the vision, and with the right talent, this could be something big." Zanichi shook his head in disbelief and smiled. "I still don't understand how you come up with ideas like this. Honestly, it feels like something from another era or maybe even beyond our time." Zaboru just shrugged, offering a knowing smile—it was true, after all. These ideas were from the future.

He leaned back and gave a firm nod. "Alright, leave this with me. I'll form a dedicated team to explore and prototype these ideas. Let's start with ten people—it'll be a long-term project, so we need a team that's agile but effective. You'll need to collaborate closely with them to share your ideas."

Zaboru grinned. "Perfect. I knew I could count on you—you've always been the best at building strong teams. If you need to recruit more talent for this new division, just let Ichidai or Rina know. I'm giving you full freedom on this one, Dad. I believe in you."

Zanichi gave him a mock-serious look. "Then maybe it's time you gave me a raise."

Zaboru laughed. "Sure—if you can beat me in Street Fighter."

Zanichi clicked his tongue in mock annoyance. Everyone at ZAGE knew Zaboru was nearly unbeatable at Street Fighter. After all, he didn't just play it—he built it.

"You're cheating, son! How can you use a move like that? It should be illegal!" Zanichi recalled the moment Zaboru parried his super attack he still couldn't believe his eyes. It didn't seem humanly possible.

Zaboru simply shrugged. "What can I say? I'm just that good—built different."

Zanichi grinned. "Well, I admire your confidence. Hahaha."

The two laughed together, their friendly rivalry deepening their bond.

Zaboru's eyes drifted toward a set of manga sketches scattered across his father's desk. "Dad, are you making a manga? I didn't know you were into that kind of thing. I mean, I always knew you were good at drawing—you made Lunar Knight sprites and art practically by yourself—but manga? I had no idea you had it in you." He picked up one of the pages, studying the intricate linework with genuine curiosity.

Zanichi chuckle "Do you know i used to... well want to become mangaka?" Zaboru eyes widened "What! when!?" Zaboru is surprised that his dad wants to become mangaka? It's really different from his dad from the previous world!

Zanichi smiles "Do you want to hear a story..?"

To be continued...

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