Goal and Gamble

Released in 2000, Metal Gear Solid 2: Sons of Liberty made a significant impact on the gaming world, captivating both returning Metal Gear Solid fans and newcomers alike.

While some returning players initially expressed apprehension about Raiden replacing the familiar Solid Snake as the protagonist, many quickly warmed to the innovative gameplay and engaging story. They appreciated the fresh perspective Raiden offered, particularly the focus on agility and acrobatics instead of Snake's stealthy tactics.

Metal Gear Solid 2 proved itself accessible to new players as well. Its stunning visuals, impressive for its time, and engaging soundtrack drew them in. The innovative gameplay mechanics, with features like first-person shooting and hacking, offered a refreshingly modern experience compared to its predecessor.

Unlike the action-heavy focus of Metal Gear Solid, MGS2 ventured into thought-provoking territory. It tackled complex themes like the spread of information, and the power of media manipulation. While these themes resonated with some players, others found them too abstract or heavy-handed, leading to a diverse range of reactions.

Despite its serious themes, the game didn't shy away from humor. References to pop culture icons like Pac-Man and Super Mario, along with the humorous inclusion of a "warp pipe" similar to the ones in Mario games, provided lighthearted moments for players.

KiShin's strategy to attract older players extended beyond just their new title. Classic titles like "The Legend of Zelda," "Sonic the Hedgehog," and "Super Mario" were meticulously remastered for the KS2 console, reigniting the nostalgia of seasoned gamers and enticing them to return to the world of video games. This move effectively tapped into a previously dormant market segment, expanding KiShin's reach and brand loyalty.

Furthermore, KiShin strategically catered to regional preferences. The "Need for Speed" series, known for its arcade-style racing, proved popular in the US market, while the more simulation-focused "Grand Turismo 2" resonated strongly with Japanese players. This regional tailoring allowed KiShin to dominate the racing game genre, establishing a strong foothold in both key markets.

Their true goal was to leverage their success in racing games to prepare the ground for future endeavors within the motor industry. This strategic vision marked the beginning of a multi-pronged approach.

This vision propelled them to venture into anime, releasing "Initial D: First Stage." This groundbreaking series targeted a mature audience, aiming to capture the hearts and minds of car lovers beyond just gamers.

Interestingly, KiShin opted for Fuji TV to air the series instead of their usual partner, TV Asahi. This strategic move suggests they sought a wider reach and a demographic that aligned better with "Initial D's" mature themes.

The news of Fuji TV securing the rights to broadcast KiShin's anime, "Initial D: First Stage," wasn't just exciting for the station, it resonated across the industry. KiShin, with its vast library of popular anime, had already demonstrably impacted the Japanese economy. Tourism, particularly to Akihabara's Electric Town, a district heavily influenced by KiShin, saw a significant boost thanks to anime's popularity.

The area, unofficially nicknamed "KiShin Town" by some, reflected the company's ubiquitous presence. While never officially adopted, the nickname reflected the company's deep roots in the area.

KiShin, with its ever-expanding influence, wasn't simply laying the groundwork for future entry into the motor industry. Through its subsidiary, KiShin Motor, established partnerships with prominent players like South Korea's Hyun-Motors, gradually taking calculated steps towards its ultimate goal.

However, Shin, the mastermind behind KiShin's endeavors, possessed a unique advantage: memories from his past life. While aware of potential discrepancies between this world and his previous one, he used these recollections to his benefit. One way he did this was by sponsoring an F1 driver predicted to win based on his past-life knowledge.

Michael Schumacher, the four-time champion in Shin's previous world, became KiShin's target. Before the F1 championship, outbidding established sponsors like Marlboro and Shell, KiShin secured the most prominent space on Schumacher's racing jacket. While Marlboro and Shell maintained their presence, KiShin's logo undeniably held the spotlight.

While possessing knowledge of his past life's F1 champion, Shin wasn't operating with absolute certainty. He understood the inherent risks involved in such a gamble. Sponsoring Michael Schumacher, despite his past-life success, represented a significant financial investment for KiShin. Additionally, Shin personally wagered a substantial sum on Schumacher's victory.

The 2000 F1 season kicked off in Australia, and for Shin and KiShin, the stakes were high. Sponsoring Michael Schumacher, a rising star in the motorsport world, represented a strategic move to gain visibility and credibility within the industry. The first race proved encouraging.

Michael, sporting a prominent KiShin logo on his racing jacket, delivered a strong performance. While seasoned fans might already be familiar with the brand, this exposure brought KiShin to the attention of a wider audience. Racing enthusiasts around the world were introduced to the company through this high-profile sponsorship.

This newfound awareness translated into tangible results for KiShin's diverse portfolio of racing games. Sales experienced a noticeable surge, indicating that the F1 sponsorship resonated with the target audience.