Tora and Suzuki anime preparation

A few days ago, in Tokyo, Japan, the release of 'Tetris' arcades by KiShin sparked a discussion among both video game enthusiasts and those who aren't typically into video games. News outlets also featured the story of KiShin's remake of the classic 1964 video game 'Tetris,' which quickly gained popularity among young people.

Arcade sections became vibrant hubs filled with enthusiastic young players. Even the older generation, who had initially criticized KiShin for producing addictive video games deemed harmful to the youth's health, found themselves rushing to stores and malls to try the revamped 'Tetris.'

As a result, 'Tetris' started causing a craze among the older generation, many of whom had previously been critical of KiShin. Their perception changed as they experienced the remade 'Tetris' firsthand.

In a surprising turn of events that left many in the business world astounded, KiShin opted to recreate a video game from the past.

At the Tora Headquarters in a meeting of the Board of Directors, Chairman Asahi shared his thoughts, saying, "I've always been anticipating that KiShin would eventually release their own 16-bit console. However, instead of that, they've chosen to remake a video game from the past. What's intriguing is that a game with the potential to appeal to all age groups is exclusively available on arcade machines." He paused, adding, "It's a rather intriguing move on KiShin's part."

The board of directors exchanged glances, and one of them remarked, "It's quite unusual, to be honest. KiShin should be well aware of the popularity it could generate. Why didn't they capitalize on it and release it for the KiShin FamiCom or KES consoles as well?"

Chairman Asahi and the board of directors exchanged nods, and one of the directors added contemplatively, "Perhaps KiShin was simply testing the waters with arcade machines before considering mass production of the 'Tetris' video game cartridge, don't you think?"

Chairman Asahi and the board of directors nodded in agreement, acknowledging the logic behind this perspective.

Chairman Asahi continued, "Regardless, the potential of 'Tetris,' a classic video game from the past, is clear evidence of its relevance in today's video game industry." He paused thoughtfully and added, "It's notable that KiShin had this idea ahead of us."

The board of directors responded with wry chuckles, and one of them remarked, "What can we expect? KiShin is a company with a strong focus on video games, so their innovative approach shouldn't come as a surprise."

Some of the board of directors nodded in agreement, and one of them remarked, "KiShin has excelled in other areas as well. Take, for instance, their toy 'Lego,' which became a massive hit this year, and the anime 'Pokémon.' Both were favorites of my child."

The room fell unusually silent as everyone recognized the immense popularity of Lego and the Pokémon anime. These products had undoubtedly contributed significantly to KiShin's owner's wealth, estimated in the billions of yen, which was undeniably impressive.

Chairman Asahi and the board of directors remained quiet, and one of the directors finally said, "That's true. Perhaps KiShin's innovation lies more in the realm of children's products." He consoled himself with these words, although his pride couldn't easily accept a smaller company like KiShin outperforming them.

Chairman Asahi shifted the conversation, asking, "How is our anime production progressing?" He directed his gaze to one of the directors, Sando Kei, the 30-year-old CEO of Tora Entertainment, who was overseeing the anime project meant to rival KiShin's 'Pokémon.'

Sando Kei nodded and began, "The anime production is progressing well. The writers have already developed the scripts and the project's concept. The directors we've brought on board are influential figures within the anime industry."

Chairman Asahi nodded in response and then posed the question that was on the minds of the board of directors, "What is the concept of the anime?" All eyes were on Sando Kei as he prepared to answer.

Sando Kei displayed a confident smile as he explained, "The concept revolves around mechs or robots controlled by humans, engaged in battles on both Earth and in space. It weaves a narrative of..." He proceeded to elaborate on the anime project's concepts and storyline, and as he spoke, Chairman Asahi and the board of directors listened with keen interest.

Chairman Asahi nodded appreciatively and commented, "Interesting. This concept sets us apart from 'Pokémon,' so we shouldn't face criticism for overlapping ideas."

The board of directors nodded in agreement, and one of them chimed in, "It's undeniably an intriguing idea. However, we can't be certain if it will capture the attention of the public, especially the younger generation."

Upon hearing this, the rest of the board members also nodded, acknowledging the uncertainty.

Sando Kei responded with a smile, "Indeed, but we have a unique concept centered around mechs and robots." He paused, wearing a confident grin, and continued, "Who isn't fascinated by robots when they're young?" Sando Kei glanced around the room, noting the lack of objections, and added, "Young people have a natural affinity for robots, so we shouldn't be overly concerned about its potential popularity."

Chairman Asahi and the board of directors nodded in agreement, finding Sando Kei's words to be both logical and reasonable.

---

[Suzuki Financial Headquarters]

[CEO's Office]

Shiko and Seki, along with the CEOs of NHK and TBS, gathered in the office.

Higa Tsuyoshi, a 43-year-old man, served as the CEO of NHK, while Takara Toya, a 32-year-old man, held the position of CEO at TBS.

Currently, they are in the office to discuss their anime project with the Suzuki family members.

Just like Tora, the Suzuki family has its team of writers working on new concepts and ideas for their anime, as well as skilled directors to oversee the production.

At present, the Suzuki Brothers were in the final stages of negotiating agreements with the two major network CEOs.

Coincidentally, the anime concept developed by Suzuki bore striking resemblance to that of Tora. Whether it was a genuine coincidence or if Tora and Suzuki were independently arriving at similar ideas through espionage remained unknown. However, it was likely that the audience would be the first to notice these similarities when the respective shows aired.