Chapter 7: Creating Super Mario Bros
As Zaboru and his family gathered for lunch, Zanichi turned to his son, clearly impressed.
"How did you create those game cartridges? It's really something," Zanichi asked, curiosity evident in his tone.
Zaboru continued chewing before answering, "Well, first, I used blank circuit boards and adapted basic memory chips to store the game data. I programmed the game on my computer, then transferred it to the chips using a makeshift device I built. After that, I designed plastic cases using molds and assembled them with a bit of trial and error."
Zanichi nodded, processing the explanation. "I see. That's impressive, son."
Zaboru grinned, taking the opportunity to ask, "So, what do you think, Dad? Does my console—and the gaming industry in general—have a future?"
Zanichi leaned back, pondering the question. "At first, I didn't think so. Systems like the Magnavox Odyssey got old too quickly, and I always believed video games belonged in arcades. But you've proven me wrong. Your home console is incredible. Once you graduate and want to expand your business, I'll support you. I've got a feeling you'll go far."
"Of course, Dad! I'm going to make it big!" Zaboru said with determination.
Sanika, his younger sister, chimed in, her excitement evident. "Nii-san! Can I play it again later? It's so fun!"
Zaboru chuckled. "Sure, but not for too long, okay? The console isn't 100% ready yet. There are still a few bugs to fix."
"Yay!" Sanika cheered, clapping her hands.
Keiko, Zaboru's mother, smiled warmly. "My, my, Zaboru. You've really created something special. Do you think I can try it too?"
"Of course, Mom! Once the first console is fully ready, I'll set it up in the main room for everyone to play," Zaboru promised.
Zanichi then asked, "By the way, have you thought about finding a company to manufacture the plastic cases for your console or a way to mass-produce the internal components?"
Zaboru hesitated. "Honestly, I haven't. Do you have any connections, Dad?"
"I might," Zanichi replied. "But for now, focus on school. Let me handle this part."
Zaboru nodded and returned to his meal.
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After lunch, Zaboru headed back to his room to begin working on his newest project: Super Mario Bros. However, this time, his father and sister decided to join him.
Sanika eagerly played Donkey Kong, Pac-Man, and Mario Bros., becoming increasingly adept at the games. Meanwhile, Zanichi observed Zaboru's process of game creation.
Zaboru was fully immersed, integrating his drawings, coding, and music into the game. His computer was connected to an electronic piano, which he used to compose 8-bit music. Zanichi noticed the setup and couldn't help but comment.
"You're really doing everything yourself, huh?"
"Yup," Zaboru replied without looking away from the screen. "But trust me, there's been a lot of trial and error."
Zanichi glanced at the screen, intrigued. "So, is this another Mario game?"
"Yes," Zaboru said, his fingers flying over the keyboard. "This time, I'm adding more content and making it more engaging than Mario Bros.. Just wait—you'll see when it's done."
Zanichi smiled, leaving Zaboru to work while he joined Sanika in playing Pac-Man and Mario Bros.. Zaboru had even created an extra controller so they could play together.
Sanika squealed with delight when she noticed something. "Nii-san, why is my Mario green?"
Zaboru smirked. "That's not Mario—that's his brother, Luigi! That's why the game is called Mario Bros."
Both Sanika and Zanichi chuckled. "Ah, I see!" they said in unison.
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For the next two hours, Zanichi and Sanika enjoyed the games while Zaboru focused on finishing Super Mario Bros. His process involved meticulous programming, sprite design, and recording music. Using his memories from his past life, he recreated the iconic soundtrack, note by note, using his piano and audio recording setup.
The cheerful melody of the main theme filled the room as Zaboru tested the game. Every detail—from the block-breaking sound effects to the enemy animations—was carefully crafted.
By the time Zanichi and Sanika had grown tired and left the room, Zaboru was nearing the finish line.
"It's so fun, Nii-san! Can I play again later?" Sanika asked as she left.
"You might have to wait a bit," Zaboru replied, smiling. "I need to test my new game first."
Sanika's eyes lit up. "New game? What is it? What is it?"
"It's a Mario game," Zaboru teased. "But that's all I'll say for now. It's a surprise!"
"Okay!" Sanika said, skipping out of the room in excitement.
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With the room now quiet, Zaboru focused all his energy on completing Super Mario Bros. He carefully programmed the jumping mechanics, enemy patterns, and level designs. The process required constant testing, debugging, and refining, but his knowledge from his previous life gave him an edge.
Finally, as the sun began to set, the last piece of the puzzle clicked into place. The screen displayed the title: Super Mario Bros.
"Yes! Done before dinner!" Zaboru said, leaning back in his chair with a satisfied smile.
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To be continued…