Ajal.
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Chapter 15 - Strategy (Part 2)
🕑 Added 2025-09-13 03:56:56 +0000 UTCThe air in the study grew heavier with Hayao Nakayama’s direct question.
Light spilled from the green banker’s lamp, casting shadows across his composed face.
Takuya met his father’s probing gaze, the earlier fervor from outlining his grand strategy settling into calm resolve.
His posture remained unwavering.
“Father, even the grandest blueprint requires step-by-step execution,” he said, his voice steady and resolute, echoing in the quiet study.
“My primary task is to deliver a new game proposal that can truly ‘ignite the market.’”
He continued without pause.
“This isn’t wishful thinking.”
“In fact, I’ve already prepared several detailed game proposals during this time.”
“These aren’t just for the present—they’re designed with future technological trends in mind, aligning with the 16-bit console strategy I mentioned.”
Katsuya’s eyes flashed with surprise, his gaze on his brother growing complex.
He hadn’t realized Takuya was crafting new proposals while managing Tetris.
Takuya’s eyes swept over his father and brother.
“These new games aim beyond mere profit.”
“More importantly, they must showcase Sega’s technical prowess and innovation to the market, players, and even our rivals.”
“We need to shatter the stereotype of Sega as rigid and hardcore, building momentum and reputation for our 16-bit console strategy.”
He adjusted his posture, leaning slightly forward.
“Soon, Mr. Yuji Suzuki’s Hang-On arcade game, with its motion-sensing technology, will complete final testing, right?”
“That motorcycle racing game is a perfect promotional point, proving Sega’s relentless pursuit of cutting-edge technology.”
“My new proposals aim to push this further.”
Shifting back to the immediate project, he said, “As for Tetris, which we’re about to roll out fully…”
A knowing smile curved his lips.
“This game, especially the handheld version we’re banking on for ‘anytime, anywhere’ play, will be an ideal ‘weapon.’”
“With its success, I plan to strategically leak ‘rumors’ through media channels or discreet, unofficial routes.”
Hayao’s eyebrow twitched subtly, signaling him to elaborate.
“For example, hinting that Sega is secretly developing a next-generation arcade board far surpassing current standards.”
“Or revealing we’re working on ‘game-changing’ titles for this advanced board.”
Hayao’s brow furrowed slightly, weighing the pros and cons.
Takuya caught his father’s expression but pressed on.
“This is ‘shaking the mountain to scare the tiger.’”
“We’ll directly provoke Nintendo, whose nerves are already taut from their North American push.”
“With President Yamauchi’s paranoid and controlling nature, facing a potential technological threat and market pressure from a direct competitor, he might react.”
Takuya answered his own question, his tone calculated.
“After all, Nintendo’s royalty system is excessively controlling—high fees, strict content reviews, and cartridge supply manipulation, shifting risks to third parties. To Yamauchi, third parties are just high-value pawns in his ‘Nintendo empire.’”
The air in the study sharpened with his words.
“If Nintendo overreacts, it plays right into our hands.”
“We can amplify the friction between Nintendo and its third-party developers, igniting long-simmering discontent.”
“This creates fertile ground for our ‘divide and conquer’ strategy, possibly even drawing dissatisfied or suppressed developers to our side.”
After hearing Takuya’s detailed plan to use Tetris for a media and psychological offensive, Hayao’s tapping fingers stilled.
A rare glint of approval flickered in his deep eyes.
This proactive, almost conspiratorial approach was far savvier than waiting for market feedback, aligning with the aggression he wanted against Nintendo.
Yet, the brief approval gave way to a tycoon’s characteristic caution.
“Using existing resources to build momentum and rattle the competition is a solid idea,” Hayao said, his voice low, the earlier praise gone.
“But, Takuya.”
His gaze cut like a blade.
“Your two-player Tetris has decent market response, but it’s essentially a tweak to an already proven work—a flourish, a clever touch.”
His words, devoid of emotion, carried immense weight.
“Crafting a strategy is one thing, but leading a successful, large-scale, market-defining original game from scratch is another realm entirely.”
“You need precise market insight, strong leadership to rally and drive a team, and clear risk awareness and control.”
Hayao leaned forward, an invisible pressure spreading.
“You’re too young, Takuya.”
“You lack the experience and authority to command a large, complex original project within the company.”
“Why would seasoned department heads and veteran producers fully trust your judgment and pour massive resources into your ‘game-changing’ ideas?”
His words cut to the core issue—strategy, however perfect, hinges on people and execution.
Katsuya’s gaze toward his brother held concern.
His father’s critique was spot-on—Takuya’s biggest weakness.
Silence settled over the study.
Facing his father’s unsparing doubts, Takuya showed no retreat or dismay.
He met Hayao’s hawk-like gaze with unmasked confidence, eager to prove himself.
He knew empty talk was useless; only tangible results could dispel doubts and earn true trust.
“I understand Father’s concerns,” Takuya said, his voice clear and firm, resounding in the quiet study.
“Talk is cheap. My proposals will address your doubts.”
He paused, his eyes burning as he looked at Hayao.
“Next week, at the company’s regular development planning meeting, I’ll present concrete, detailed original game proposals to you and the senior development team.”
“Please, watch closely.”
