Development

Undertale drew inspiration from EarthBound, a project Shin fully committed to. Progress in 32-bit research was boosted through joint efforts with three Silicon Valley companies Shin had invested in. Apple's involvement expanded KiShin's research facilities, attracting several other companies to contribute to ongoing projects.

Simultaneously, the Game Engine project was in progress. Given the absence of an existing Game Engine at the time, Shin and fellow developers had to build everything from the ground up, crafting their tools and framework—a time-consuming endeavor.

One pivotal figure in the development of KiShin's game engine was Andrew Reed, specifically selected for this significant and confidential project by KiShin.

Andrew, a highly intelligent recent graduate from Harvard, was thrilled to contribute to the company led by the visionary behind the video game industry's revival—KiShin. Upon presenting his qualifications, Andrew was promptly accepted. A few months into his tenure at KiShin, he was chosen for a particular project that left him truly amazed.

The project, named 'Unreal Engine: A Game Engine Development Project,' originated from the mind of Shinro Suzuki.

Upon delving into the project's concept, Andrew was captivated by Shinro Suzuki's visionary plan and ideas. The full realization of the Game Engine promised to significantly streamline the process of video game development.

With this development, Andrew pondered whether there would be any competition left in the video game industry. KiShin, Tora, and Suzuki stood as the industry's top companies, while others attempted to enter with unique consoles. Despite their efforts, none could rival even Tora and Suzuki, yet they still profited. Notably, independent game companies emerged, reaping substantial benefits with KiShin's support.

Approaching February, Tora and Suzuki observed the success of independent games on KiShin's platforms. Consequently, both companies opened their platforms to these independent developers. Most independent game companies, prioritizing profits, chose to make their games, initially exclusive to KiShin platforms, available on Tora and Suzuki platforms as well, seemingly without concern for KiShin's reaction.

However, certain independent video game companies displayed loyalty to KiShin by maintaining exclusivity on KiShin platforms. Upon noticing this, KiShin's leadership decided to extend more favorable offers to these particular independent game developers.

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Meanwhile, in February, a month meant for celebration for the Suzuki couple, Shiro and Airi, due to Valentine's Day and their shared birth month. Shiro, aged 52 with a birthday on February 8, and Airi, aged 49 with a birthday on February 1, were supposed to enjoy festivities in the grand Suzuki household. However, an unusual silence permeated the Suzuki family's dinner table.

Reina, who pouted while eating her steak, snorted, "I didn't realize that Shinro having a child was such a big deal..."

Shiro and Airi furrowed their brows at Reina, who, upon noticing their reaction, fell into silence.

However, Shiko and Seki shared the same sentiment as Reina.

Shiro and Airi exchanged glances, and then Shiro spoke, "This is indeed a significant event." He paused, glancing at his two sons and two daughters before continuing, "Your mother and I are going to be grandparents, and you four will finally have a nephew or niece and become uncles and aunties..." Shiro beamed with a huge smile on his face as he spoke.

As Ruki, Reina, Shiko, and Seki sensed their father Shiro's imminent wide smile, they were left momentarily speechless by his words.

In particular, Reina retorted, declaring, "No way! I refuse to be called an auntie!"

Shiro and Airi chuckled at her protest and simply laughed.

Meanwhile, in Sazama Suzuki's mansion, Sazama and Kumiko were equally thrilled about their impending great-grandchild.

The rest of the Suzuki family received news that Shiro's youngest son was expecting a child with his wife. This prompted various reactions within the family, though not overly pronounced.

As Japan entered the year 1993, the preceding year, 1992, witnessed a decline in childbirth in the country, although it wasn't deemed particularly alarming.

The decline in childbirth in Japan stemmed from several factors. Speculations in the Japanese media suggested that the cost of raising children, coupled with the overall high cost of living, contributed to this trend. Additionally, many young individuals were seen prioritizing their careers or engaging in entertainment, such as films, the burgeoning popularity of anime, and video games. However, opinions on the role of entertainment in this decline varied, and it remained a matter of speculation.

Even in the 1970s and throughout the 1980s, Japan had been grappling with low childbirth rates. In response, the government had implemented various regulations aimed at boosting childbirth in the country.

Meanwhile, in Shin's grand household, he observed as the doctor conducted a check-up on Mira.

The female doctor reassured Shin that Mira was in good health. Leveraging his wealth, Shin had brought medical equipment to a private room in his house, where the doctors examined the baby in Mira's stomach.

Shin felt a mix of excitement and anxiety, contemplating whether Mira would navigate the pregnancy successfully and what would unfold during the delivery. Overwhelmed with thoughts, he even prayed to God for a smooth process.

Expressing his concerns to Mira in the presence of the female doctor, she chuckled and said, "Don't worry too much, Shin." She paused, glancing at Shin's private parts, and added, "I am already used to it... So, I think I'll do just fine."

Shin furrowed his brows, and the female doctor chuckled, noticing the playful meaning behind Mira's words. When Shin finally grasped it, he blushed, prompting both women to burst into laughter.

Shin found a reason to exit the private room. As he closed the door, the constant laughter of Mira and the female doctor lingered in his ears. Shin shook his head, simultaneously feeling less worried, reassured by Mira's comforting words.

Just then, his phone rang, and Shin noticed his father calling. Upon answering, Shiro inquired about Mira's pregnancy.

Shortly after, Mira's parents, Daichi and Miku, also called. Shin provided reassurance, and Mira's parents expressed their intention to visit and check on their daughter.

Shin didn't find anything wrong with it and agreed. Simultaneously, Shin's parents were also planning to come and visit shortly.