On Sunday, May 25, 1992, the excitement surrounding Doom's PC game in the United States wasn't the only phenomenon captivating gamers across the nation. With the ZEPS console having launched just over two months earlier, American fans were already clamoring for fresh content, expressing insatiable enthusiasm for new gaming experiences. Even though ZAGE had impressively provided 27 diverse titles at the console's debut, dedicated players had rapidly devoured these initial offerings, mastering each title and yearning for more. Gamers across America became increasingly aware of additional titles exclusive to the Japanese market, particularly fascinating third-party games that had yet to reach American shores. Additionally, there were twelve more official ZAGE games already available in Japan, intensifying American anticipation and fueling discussions in gaming circles and forums.
In response to this growing demand, Zaboru and his dedicated team, working closely with Emerald Wings, started actively exploring feasible options to introduce these captivating third-party titles to the American audience. Zaboru maintained a strong belief in fostering third-party developers, aiming to demonstrate that exceptional game quality wasn't exclusive to ZAGE's internal studios but achievable by talented creators everywhere, provided they adhered to high-quality standards. Nevertheless, incorporating American third-party developers presented its unique set of challenges. Zaboru underscored the critical importance of maintaining stringent quality control processes and procedural integrity identical to those meticulously established in Japan. To support this ambition, Emerald Wings' leaders, Ryan and James, diligently undertook extensive research and consultations to identify reliable and capable American manufacturers who could officially produce ZEPS games domestically. They recognized the complexity of this task, understanding that patience and thorough preparation were essential to ensure the continued excellence and reliability that ZAGE had become synonymous with.
Meanwhile, a fascinating and unexpected cultural phenomenon began flourishing in America's gaming community. Fans traveling between the United States and Japan started returning home with extraordinary, visually striking ZEPS Special Edition consoles. These consoles, already rare and highly coveted even within Japan, sparked a frenzied demand stateside. Soon, rumors circulated rapidly, fueling sensational stories of extravagant purchases. One particularly remarkable tale involved a wealthy enthusiast reportedly spending an astonishing $100,000 to acquire one of these elusive Special Edition consoles. Although the authenticity of this specific rumor remained unclear, the mere existence of such speculation underscored the fervent desire and admiration American gamers held for these exclusive collector's items.
Adding further to American gamers' envy was Japan's immensely popular ZAGE POWER Magazine. Despite the language barrier posed by its entirely Japanese content, the magazine's visually appealing design, vibrant artwork, detailed reviews, and captivating game insights deeply intrigued American gaming enthusiasts. The magazine quickly became a coveted item among the American fanbase, prompting persistent requests directed at Emerald Wings via letters, emails, and phone calls. Gamers passionately pleaded for a dedicated American version of ZAGE POWER, one that could cater specifically to their interests and gaming culture. Understanding the value of fan engagement and the importance of community building, Ryan and James immediately initiated plans to fulfill this growing demand. They dispatched specialized teams tasked with finding suitable publishing partners within the United States and engaged directly with Zaboru, whose direct involvement would ensure authentic and high-quality ZAGE content tailored precisely for American readers. Although establishing the American edition of ZAGE POWER Magazine was progressing positively, it was an endeavor that required careful coordination and time to perfect.
Simultaneously, excitement surged again with the American release of Japan's April game lineup, eliciting widespread enthusiasm and positive reception from gamers nationwide. Base Wars emerged as a clear favorite, resonating profoundly with American audiences. Its humorous and innovative portrayal of robots engaging in fierce battles on baseball fields was instantly embraced, contrasting sharply with the critical reception it had faced from baseball traditionalists in Japan. American players viewed Base Wars purely as entertainment, enjoying the creative absurdity and refreshing innovation it brought to the gaming landscape.
But not all companies were celebrating.
Sonaya, The titan of Japan's hardware market, had fallen behind in the console race. Their MGB (Mugen Game Box) Consoles , set to launch in the U.S., looked painfully outdated next to ZAGE's sleek plans. Although MGB has slightly better specs compared to ZEPS The MGB title games look like a joke compared to robust ZEPS games. Even Sonaya's U.S. branch seemed to know that their push for the MGB was lukewarm at best.
Still, Hikaru Kurata, the stoic head of Sonaya Japan, refused to fold. He'd accepted ZAGE's dominance — for now. But he hadn't given up. "Let them take number one," he told his team. "We'll hold number two. For now. Then we'll adapt. We always do." He believe that overtime Sonaya MGB will able to become ZEPS proper rival in future
Overall, ZAGE and the ZEPS console experienced remarkable and rapid growth throughout the United States, firmly establishing a strong and passionate fanbase. The brand's reputation expanded swiftly, embedding itself deeply into American culture. This phenomenal growth brought substantial increases in revenue, broader recognition, and significant cultural influence, marking ZAGE's successful venture into a major international market.
However, alongside the burgeoning success and prosperity, inevitable complexities began to surface. The rapid financial gains and increasing visibility attracted challenges and unforeseen obstacles that were quietly mounting in the background .
Money always brings fortune and problems , and there will be problems that await ZAGE USA and Emerald wings in future ..
To be continue
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