Chapter 4 - 3: Brainstorming and First Video Game Idea
After settling into his room, Zaboru grabbed a notebook and began scribbling furiously. His first priority was listing the necessary components for his console.
He muttered to himself as he wrote, 'Alright, the console will combine the aesthetics of the NES with the performance and durability of the Master System. This means an upgraded 8-bit processor, sturdy casing, and a responsive controller. The design will be simple yet iconic.'
Once the list was complete, Zaboru moved on to brainstorming game ideas.
'Nintendo, Sega, Namco... None of those giants exist here. Some companies, like Sony, have counterparts like Sonay, but they focus more on consumer electronics than gaming. Arcade games exist, but they're limited to casual titles like Space Invaders, Pong, and Tetris. No Pac-Man, Mario Bros., or Donkey Kong.
'Hmm, I'll start with these three classics as my initial games to test the console. Once that's done, I'll focus on Super Mario Bros. for the launch lineup. That'll give me four strong debut titles for my console. Afterward, I can work on The Legend of Zelda and build a library of unforgettable games.'
He grinned as he considered the possibilities. 'Game design, artwork, and programming won't be a problem. In my previous life, I reverse-engineered countless NES and Master System games for fun. Of course, back then, technology was way more advanced, so this will be a bit tougher, but I can handle it.'
With his plan in place, Zaboru cleared his desk and laid out the components he'd bought.
'Time to bring this console to life!'
Zaboru worked tirelessly, assembling the prototype piece by piece. First, he soldered the 8-bit processor and RAM onto the circuit board. Next, he added the PPU for video output and configured it to display a palette of vibrant colors. For sound, he connected an audio chip capable of producing the classic chiptune melodies he loved.
He designed the controller with two buttons and a directional pad, borrowing inspiration from the NES but improving the durability with sturdier materials. The prototype console itself lacked a proper casing—it was a tangle of exposed wires and circuit boards—but functionality was his primary goal for now.