Chapter 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.

Zaboru struggled with a few hiccups along the way—faulty connections, incorrect wiring, and power issues—but his persistence paid off. Fueled by nothing but coffee and sheer determination, he worked through the night.

After eight grueling hours, he sat back and stared at his creation. 'It's crude, but it works. Now for the real test.'

He connected the console to his old CRT television and inserted a simple game he'd programmed earlier: a single block that could jump when a button was pressed.

Holding his breath, Zaboru powered on the console. The screen flickered to life, displaying the simple block character. He grabbed the prototype controller and pressed the jump button. The block responded instantly, leaping into the air.

'Yes! It works! My first prototype is complete!'

Exhausted but exhilarated, Zaboru leaned back in his chair, his stomach growling.

'I'm starving... and dead tired. Time to eat and sleep before I tackle the next steps tomorrow.'

He headed to the kitchen, where his mom had left him a plate of dinner. Smiling at her thoughtfulness, Zaboru sat down and ate in the quiet of the night.

'Mom's cooking really is the best—better than anything in both worlds.'

After finishing his meal, Zaboru returned to his room and collapsed onto his bed. Sleep came quickly, his mind buzzing with plans for the future. Tomorrow, he would refine his prototype and start turning his vision into reality.

To be continued…