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84% Becoming a Superstar 1988: Being Edited / Chapter 62: Quarterly Earnings Report

Chapter 62: Quarterly Earnings Report

Noir Trending, New York. October 26th 1988

In a spacious meeting room, Daniel sat at the head of the long table, surrounded by all the shareholders of Noir Trending. Among them were four new investors who had decided to invest in the company over the past six months.

Currently, the distribution of shares in Noir Trending was as follows: Daniel held a 50% stake, while Oliver owned 27% through a combination of Star Horizon and Blue Star Interactive. David and Donna each held approximately 12% through Blue Star Interactive, and the remaining 11% was split among the four new shareholders.

Daniel had invested a total of $8 million in both Star Horizon and Blue Star Interactive: $2.7 million in Star Horizon through a cash-plus-stock deal, and $5.3 million in Blue Star Interactive using a similar arrangement. The gaming industry was experiencing a resurgence following the video game crash of 1983, largely due to the entry of companies like Nintendo and, more recently, Sega into the market. This resurgence explained Daniel's larger investment in Blue Star Interactive compared to Star Horizon.

As the minutes passed, everyone took their seats, totaling 15 individuals in the meeting room, including the four new investors with whom Daniel had previously worked during his business travels to the States.

At 12:00 PM, everyone was settled in their seats, and the meeting was about to begin. "Alright, I'd like to start by thanking everyone for taking the time to attend this quarterly report meeting," Daniel said, looking around the room at all the attendees.

"As you know, our quarterly report is a crucial part of our business strategy. It provides us with a comprehensive overview of our performance over the past three months. Today, we'll discuss key financial metrics, including revenue growth, profit margins, and our overall financial health. We'll also review our progress on strategic initiatives, such as product development and market expansion.

"This quarter has been particularly significant for us, as we've seen positive trends in several areas, thanks to our recent investments and the resurgence of the gaming industry." Daniel glanced at towards Alex and his two associates as he came to this point.

He continued. " I'll walk you through our sales figures, highlighting which products have performed well and identifying any challenges we've encountered.

"We'll also take a look at our forecasts for the upcoming quarter and discuss any adjustments we may need to make to our strategy moving forward. I encourage everyone to ask questions and share insights as we go through the report—your perspectives are invaluable as we navigate this exciting period for Noir Trending."

With that, Daniel prepared to dive into the details of the report, eager to engage everyone in a productive discussion.

Thanks to Alex's subtle guidance Noir Trending short listed ten companies which where:

Digital Equipment Corporation (DEC):DEC was experiencing declining sales as personal computers became more popular, struggling to adapt to the new market dynamics.

Bally Manufacturing: While known for its gaming equipment, the company was facing increased competition and market saturation.

Kmart: Kmart was beginning to lose market share to Walmart and Target, indicating potential future struggles.

Panasonic (Matsushita Electric):

Facing stiff competition and market pressure, especially in consumer electronics, leading to declining stock performance.

Trans World Airlines (TWA): TWA was struggling financially in a competitive airline market, with rising fuel prices and operational inefficiencies.

American Motors Corporation (AMC): AMC was losing ground in the automotive market, facing stiff competition from larger manufacturers, leading to declining sales.

Stride Rite Corporation: The company faced challenges with changing consumer preferences and competition from larger footwear brands.

Sears, Roebuck and Co: Sears was beginning to see declines in its retail operations and struggling to adapt to changing consumer habits.

Commodore International: Commodore was losing market share in personal computers, indicating potential future issues.

MCI Communications: Facing intense competition from AT&T and other telecom providers, MCI's stock showed vulnerability.

"As you all know, Noir Trending has personally invested $10 million in short-selling several companies over the last six months." Daniel paused for emphasis, allowing the weight of the investment to sink in. "These include Digital Equipment Corporation, Bally Manufacturing, Kmart, Panasonic, Trans World Airlines, American Motors Corporation, Stride Rite Corporation, Sears, Roebuck and Co., Commodore International, and MCI Communications."

"We allocated a total of $10 million to short-sell these companies," Daniel said, looking toward his friend and colleague, Mr. Jared Wilson. "Now, I'd like to invite Jared to provide more details regarding our profit margins this quarter."

Jared stood, his demeanor professional yet approachable. "Thank you, Daniel," he began, adjusting his glasses as he prepared to dive into the details. "As Daniel mentioned, we distributed our $10 million equally across these ten companies, meaning each received an allocation of $1 million. Let's take a closer look at how these investments have performed based on hypothetical stock prices and their declines."

He opened his presentation, projecting a chart onto the screen for everyone to see. "First, let's examine Digital Equipment Corporation. At an initial price of $80, it saw a decline to $40, resulting in a 50% drop. This would yield an estimated profit of $625,000."

Jared moved on to the next company. "Bally Manufacturing presented a more dramatic decline. Initially priced at $25, it dropped to $10, a 60% decrease, yielding an impressive profit of $1.2 million."

He continued through the list, detailing each company's performance with clarity and precision:

- **Kmart**: Initial Price: $30 → Decline to $15 (50% drop) → Estimated Profit: $500,000

- **Panasonic (Matsushita)**: Initial Price: $40 → Decline to $20 (50% drop) → Estimated Profit: $500,000

- **Trans World Airlines (TWA)**: Initial Price: $20 → Decline to $10 (50% drop) → Estimated Profit: $500,000

- **American Motors Corporation (AMC)**: Initial Price: $15 → Decline to $5 (66.67% drop) → Estimated Profit: $1,000,000

- **Stride Rite Corporation**: Initial Price: $22 → Decline to $11 (50% drop) → Estimated Profit: $500,000

- **Sears, Roebuck and Co.**: Initial Price: $55 → Decline to $30 (45% drop) → Estimated Profit: $409,091

- **Commodore International**: Initial Price: $40 → Decline to $15 (62.5% drop) → Estimated Profit: $1,562,500

- **MCI Communications**: Initial Price: $25 → Decline to $12.50 (50% drop) → Estimated Profit: $500,000

When Jared finished presenting the data, he looked around the room, gauging the reactions of the shareholders. "Overall, our total profit from these short positions amounts to a total of $ 8,296,591 US Dollars," he concluded, a note of pride in his voice. "This strategy has allowed us to capitalize on market fluctuations effectively, and I look forward to discussing our next steps."

The room buzzed with murmurs of approval as the shareholders absorbed the information. Daniel nodded appreciatively at Jared's presentation, ready to steer the conversation toward the future.

" Alright, adding this total to last quarter earnings reports which was held 5 months ago. We have made a total of $15,8 million USD dollars in liquid cash. We've also made about 26 million dollars for all of our customers as commission we've taken away 6.5 million dollars. Meaning our total net income from this year's quarter is 22.4 million dollars. " Daniel concluded.

Alex on the other side went through the structural commission practice of Noir Trending.

Typical Commission Structures were as follows:

1. **Flat Rate Commission: Some firms charge a flat percentage on sales or revenue, which can range from 10% to 30% or more, depending on the agreement.

2. **Tiered Commission: This structure may start at a lower percentage for initial revenue levels and increase as sales exceed certain thresholds.

3. **Performance-Based Commission: Commissions may also depend on the achievement of specific targets or performance metrics.

For example a few scenarios for commission rates based on typical industry standards:

1. **Scenario 1: 10% Commission

- **Commission Earned: $26 million × 10% = $2.6 million

2. **Scenario 2: 15% Commission

- **Commission Earned: $26 million × 15% = $3.9 million

3. **Scenario 3: 20% Commission**

- **Commission Earned: $26 million × 20% = $5.2 million

4. **Scenario 4: 25% Commission**

- **Commission Earned: $26 million × 25% = $6.5 million

5. **Scenario 5: 30% Commission

- **Commission Earned: $26 million × 30% = $7.8 million

In Summary of Potential Commissions were:

- **10% Commission: $2.6 million

- **15% Commission: $3.9 million

- **20% Commission: $5.2 million

- **25% Commission: $6.5 million

- **30% Commission: $7.8 million

The actual amount taken away as commission would depend on the specific commission structure negotiated by the training firm. And Noir Trending took away 25% as commissions as a standard.

Florida Tallahassee US

Eric slid into the worn-out desk chair in his room, the anticipation practically buzzing through him. He adjusted the old CRT monitor, dimmed his room lights for the full effect, and booted up Castle Wolfenstein 3D: The Nocturnal Missions. This was the game's expansion pack, and he'd been waiting all week to dive in. The screen flickered as the game loaded, and a pulsing MIDI soundtrack filled the room, adding to the excitement.

" Alright, the journey continues I guess." Eric murmured to himself with the opening cinematics played across his monitor. He was really surprised when he received an email from Blue Star Interactive about an new expansion to the game. And he only needed to pay 20 dollars for it which is a steal in his opinion.

He grinned, fingers hovering over the keyboard as the title screen appeared. There was something almost hypnotic about the bold blue text on the screen and the rugged, intense face of the protagonist, BJ Blazkowicz. Eric had already spent hours on the main game, and he was eager to see what new challenges the developers at Blue Star Interactive had cooked up for him this time.

As the first level loaded, he scanned the familiar stone corridors, his heart already racing. He couldn't help but feel a little on edge. The Nocturnal Missions was rumored to be tougher than the original game, and every dark corner felt like a potential ambush. He took a deep breath, preparing himself for whatever lay ahead.

Eric carefully moved BJ forward, weapon drawn. As he rounded the first corner, he heard the guttural shout of a Nazi guard. Instinct took over, and his fingers danced across the keys as he fired off a shot, dropping the enemy. He grinned, feeling that rush of satisfaction. There was nothing quite like the thrill of a good, clean takedown.

But Nocturnal Missions didn't let up. As he moved deeper into the level, he quickly realized that the enemies here were faster and deadlier, and he had to stay alert. The screen flashed red as he took a hit he didn't see coming, and he cursed under his breath, leaning in closer to the screen. He could practically feel his heart in his chest as his health bar dropped. He scrambled to find a medkit, pushing forward even though every new hallway made him jumpy.

In a dark corner of the room, he spotted a shimmering object—a key. He reached for it, nerves on edge, knowing that collecting it would likely trigger more enemies. Sure enough, as he picked it up, the sound of footsteps echoed through the corridors, getting louder. He didn't even have time to think; he was in survival mode, instincts firing as he sprinted back to the doorway, firing off shots as fast as he could.

Despite the tension, Eric was loving every second of it. He felt like a real action hero, navigating dark hallways, evading enemies, and searching for hidden rooms that might lead to treasures or much-needed ammo. Every time he narrowly escaped a surprise ambush or managed to find a stash of supplies, he felt a rush of triumph. It was like nothing he'd ever experienced in any other game.

Finally, after what felt like hours, he reached the level's exit. He let out a sigh of relief, running a hand through his hair. His eyes were tired, but he couldn't stop now. He was hooked, ready to see what other twists and challenges The Nocturnal Missions had in store.

With a grin, he clicked forward, ready to tackle the next level.

Eric cracked his knuckles and took a deep breath. He'd cleared the first level, and now he was fully engrossed. The second floor loaded, and the tension only grew. The map was more complex, the hallways narrower, and his ammo supply dangerously low. Every step felt like a test of nerves, and Eric had to keep reminding himself to breathe.

On this floor, he noticed that the enemies seemed smarter, almost as if the game knew he was getting better and wanted to keep him on his toes. He heard the familiar bark of a Nazi guard around the next corner. His finger tensed over the trigger key, but before he could react, the guard spotted him and fired, landing a hit. The screen flashed red, and his health bar dropped another notch.

"Come on, come on," he muttered to himself, retreating around a corner. He frantically scanned for a medkit, any relief that would keep him going. It wasn't long before he found one stashed in an alcove beside a pile of crates. With a sigh of relief, he picked it up, his health jumping back up. This small win fueled his determination, and he continued forward with newfound focus.

On the next floor, Eric's heart raced as he opened a door, revealing a room packed with guards. There was no cover in sight. Before they had a chance to react, he made a split-second decision, opening fire and taking down two of them immediately. But the others closed in fast, and he barely had a moment to dodge as bullets whizzed past him. His health was dropping fast, but he managed to take them down one by one, leaving him with just a sliver of health and almost no ammo.

"This is brutal," he muttered, half frustrated and half exhilarated.

Eric scavenged the room, hoping for ammo or a medkit, but found nothing. He had to think strategically now, conserve his resources, and play cautiously. As he explored further, he discovered a hidden passageway behind one of the walls. His heart skipped a beat. Hidden passages often meant goodies—a well-deserved reward for the careful player. Sure enough, the room was stocked with a cache of ammo and a full medkit.

With a grin, Eric stocked up and moved to the next floor. He knew Episode 2 was about to get serious, and sure enough, as the third floor loaded, he was greeted with an eerie silence. The atmosphere was different here—more oppressive, the music more intense. He felt the weight of the game, the sense that he was closing in on something important.

Moving cautiously, he came across a heavily guarded hallway. He knew he'd have to get creative to survive this part. As he leaned around the corner, he saw three guards and one officer stationed at the far end. Rushing in would be suicide. He took a deep breath, waiting for the guards to spread out. When one of them finally turned away, he moved swiftly, taking him out silently. But as soon as he did, the others noticed him, and all hell broke loose.

Eric's fingers flew over the keys as he dodged, firing back, his mind racing as he tried to remember the route he'd taken to get here. He managed to take down two guards, but the officer was relentless, landing a few brutal hits. With his health dangerously low, Eric ducked into a side room and closed the door, heart pounding as he checked his inventory.

There was barely enough ammo left to keep going, but he couldn't give up now. He waited until he could hear the footsteps fade, then cautiously opened the door and sprinted down a side hall, avoiding the main patrols. He knew he was getting close to the boss of this episode, and that thought kept him on edge. He could feel his adrenaline spiking as he approached a large, double-doored room at the end of the hall. His hands were slightly shaky now, the thrill and stress of the game combining into an intense experience he'd never felt before.

Taking a deep breath, he pushed open the doors. The room was massive, with enemies stationed in every corner. It was clear he'd stumbled into a key area, likely holding something vital. With no choice but to fight, he unleashed his remaining rounds, dodging and weaving through gunfire. It was a brutal battle, but after what felt like an eternity, he took out the last guard.

When he finally cleared the room, he found another medkit and a crucial key, one he knew would take him to the boss level on the next floor. Despite his exhaustion, Eric was grinning, his fingers practically buzzing from the adrenaline.

"All right, let's do this," he whispered, moving toward the final challenge of the floor, ready to prove he had what it took to finish the level and face whatever The Nocturnal Missions threw at him next.

New York City, Manhattan

Noir Trending Meeting Room. "Alright, that concludes our report on the current physical and financial state of the company. Now, I'd like to hand over the next point for discussion to my brother, Oliver."

With that, the discussion transitioned smoothly from Noir Trending to Star Horizon. Oliver adjusted his posture and gave Daniel a subtle nod, signaling his readiness to take over.

"Thank you, everyone," Oliver began, his voice steady but infused with a hint of excitement. "I want to take a moment to update you on the current status of Star Horizon."

He glanced at the team, each member's eyes focused on him, eager to hear about their pioneering venture.

"We're processing between 250 and 280 orders a day, which for us is a promising trajectory. Each order averages about $25 for the book, plus a $5 shipping fee, bringing in around $30 per sale. This means we're generating approximately $7,500 to $8,400 in revenue daily."

Oliver took a breath, allowing the significance of their achievement to resonate.

"However, we need to discuss our expenses. Right now, our overhead costs are significant. Between inventory purchases, shipping logistics, and marketing efforts, we're looking at daily expenses that hover around $8,000. This means we're operating at a loss of roughly $600 to $500 month."

He shifted his weight, leaning slightly forward, his passion evident.

"While we're seeing growth, it's vital to acknowledge that we're still in the early stages. Our expenses are high as we invest in building our brand and customer base. But I firmly believe that we're on the brink of something substantial. With the growing awareness and acceptance of online shopping, we expect to reach our peak in the next three to four months."

Oliver's gaze swept across the room, meeting the determined faces of his team.

"To clarify our business model, let me explain what sets us apart. We're creating the first online bookstore, a place where readers can access a vast selection of titles without ever having to leave their homes. Our goal is to make it easy for customers to find both popular books and hidden gems that local bookstores might not carry.

Imagine someone looking for a specific novel or a rare edition—they can browse our website, see reviews, and make informed choices, all with just a few clicks. We want to build a platform that not only offers convenience but also fosters a love for reading by introducing customers to new authors and genres."

Oliver's gaze swept across the room, meeting the determined faces of everyone in the room. Especially at some of the new faces in the room who still didn't seemingly to get their business strategy.

"To clarify our business model, let me explain what sets us apart. We're creating the first online bookstore, a place where readers can access a vast selection of titles without ever having to leave their homes. Our goal is to make it easy for customers to find both popular books and hidden gems that local bookstores might not carry.

Imagine someone looking for a specific novel or a rare edition—they can browse our website, see reviews, and make informed choices, all with just a few clicks. We want to build a platform that not only offers convenience but also fosters a love for reading by introducing customers to new authors and genres."

"This is an extraordinary opportunity for us. As pioneers in this field, we have the chance to establish Star Horizon as the go-to name not just as a online book sales. But a multifaceted enterprise that deals with various goods. THE FIRST ONLINE STORE THAT JUST REQUIRES A CLICK OF A BUTTON."

As he spoke with a confident smile, sensing the energy in the room shift. Especially among the new face in the room, Alex on the side looking at his father confidence as he spoke. A sense of pride and admiration washed over him, especially since this whole thing was his idea.

But, Alex tell that his father has become more and more confident in his idea, for Star Horizon especially at this moment.

Oliver continued, " It's not going to be easy and is most definitely going to take some time but... We are in the cusp of a new era when it comes to the online marketing. And we at Star Horizon are well strummed and ready to steer the wheel. "


Chapter 63: Quarterly Earnings Reports 2

Michael Henry shifted uncomfortably in his chair, his ocean-blue eyes darting to his father for reassurance. The quarterly earnings report was a critical moment, and this time, he was at the helm. No amount of preparation seemed to settle the flutter in his stomach, yet he knew this was a pivotal moment not only for him but for Blue Star Interactive.

Across the room, Daniel Williams, the head of Noir Trending, sat at the end of the polished conference table. His light blonde hair, neatly styled, gleamed under the fluorescent lights, and his calm, approachable demeanor did little to ease Michael's nerves.

Michael straightened his back, took a steadying breath, and spoke. "Thank you, Mr. Williams, for this opportunity to present our progress. I'll be sharing our earnings and a few key updates regarding Blue Star Interactive."

The room grew quiet as Michael launched into his report. "As you all know, our first title, Castle Wolfenstein 3D, has been a remarkable success. We've sold approximately 25,000 physical copies and 3,000 digital copies across console and PC markets. At $49.99 per unit, this has generated a total sales revenue of about $1.4 million."

There was a ripple of murmurs as Daniel and the other attendees exchanged looks, eyebrows raised at the impressive figures. For a team as young as Michael's, such numbers were unheard of.

From his seat, Harry, nodded appreciatively at Michael well presented speech.

Thanks to the release of Friends and Who Wants to Be a Millionaire.Both shows had been breakout successes, with Friends becoming a cultural phenomenon by its eighth episode. Harry's team was already fielding advertising deals and merchandising offers, but even he couldn't deny the youthful ingenuity driving Blue Star Interactive's ascent.

Harry couldn't help but sigh in relief at his current situation, especially since *Saw* had finally caught the attention of major studios here in the States.

After months of effort from his team to secure a meeting to showcase the film, too various studios.

Michael continued, his voice gaining steadiness as his pride in the team's accomplishments outweighed his nerves. "We recently launched Episode Two, which has received overwhelmingly positive feedback from players. We anticipate this will drive additional sales and further engage our audience. We're also collecting user feedback through a new initiative: our website."

An older gentleman with salt-and-pepper hair leaned forward, narrowing his eyes. Malcolm Chastain, a long-time investor, raised a hand. "Website? Could you clarify what you mean by that, young man?"

Michael hesitated for only a moment before responding. "Of course, Mr. Chastain. A website is essentially a digital storefront or hub on the internet. It's a place where players can access information about our games, leave feedback, and engage with us directly."

"The internet, you say?" Malcolm asked, his tone skeptical. "And this is something we should concern ourselves with?"

Michael nodded, meeting the man's gaze. "Yes, sir. The internet is an emerging network that allows computers to connect and share information. While it's still in its infancy, we believe it will become a powerful tool for marketing, communication, and engagement. By leveraging it, we can reach a broader audience and gain insights that were previously impossible."

Daniel leaned forward, his interest piqued. "You're suggesting this could be a game-changer for reaching players and staying connected with them?"

"Exactly," Michael said, his confidence growing. "We're building a user-friendly website as a foundation for our online presence. In the future, we plan to expand into online advertising and potentially social media platforms. It's an exciting avenue with immense potential."

Malcolm frowned thoughtfully. "But how did you gain access to this... internet? It doesn't seem widely available."

Alex, decided to chimed in here smoothly. "We applied for permission to explore commercial uses of the internet through an academic pilot program. By providing feedback and data, we've secured access to this new technology."

Malcolm nodded slowly, still processing, but Daniel smiled. "Well done. Innovation like this will set you apart in the market. Keep us updated on the internet initiative—it might be worth investing in."

Michael exhaled silently, a wave of relief washing over him. "Thank you. Now, regarding our next project—Grand Theft Auto—we're targeting a launch in seven to eight months. This is our most ambitious project yet. We're focused on creating an semi open-world experience that offers players unprecedented freedom and immersion."

Mark, leaned forward, and decide to add in his on thought's here. "The open-world mechanics are shaping up to be groundbreaking. And we all believe designing the game world to feel alive, with dynamic interactions and endless possibilities for the player."

"Feedback from Episode Two shows players are eager for something bigger," Alex added. "We're confident Grand Theft Auto will be a hit."

Daniel nodded, his approval clear. "You're on the right track. Keep the momentum going, and don't hesitate to share any roadblocks where we might assist. Michael, you've done an excellent job leading this discussion."

Michael's heart swelled with pride. As Daniel turned to the next presenter, he sat back in his chair, knowing that Blue Star Interactive's future was brighter than ever.

As Michael concluded his presentation and took his seat, all eyes turned to the youngest co-founder of Blue Star Interactive, Alex Williams. Despite being only 12, Alex's sharp mind and strategic approach to game development had already earned him respect within the studio. He stood confidently, glancing at his notes before addressing the room.

"Thank you, Michael," Alex began, his voice clear and steady. "Now, I'd like to discuss our next big release, Mortal Kombat. The game is finished and is currently in the midst of its promotional campaign, with a primary focus on arcade hardware."

A murmur of interest swept the room. While Castle Wolfenstein 3D had proven Blue Star Interactive's capabilities, Mortal Kombat was a bold step forward, aiming to dominate the arcade scene with cutting-edge graphics and gameplay.

Alex continued, "We've worked hard to make Mortal Kombat a standout title. Its fluid animations, engaging combat mechanics, and unique character designs set it apart. However, we're aware that the game's graphic violence has raised some concerns."

At this, Daniel Williams, CEO of Noir Trending, leaned forward, his gaze fixed on Alex. "You're right, Alex. The level of violence in Mortal Kombat has drawn attention, not just from players but from parents and certain advocacy groups. How do you plan to address this as the game launches?"

Alex nodded, prepared for the question. "We understand the concerns and take them seriously. The violence in Mortal Kombat is stylized and exaggerated, designed to match the game's over-the-top tone rather than encourage harmful behavior. That said, we're actively exploring the implementation of warning labels on promotional materials and arcade cabinets to inform players about the game's content."

Daniel arched an eyebrow. "That's a start, but what if there's backlash? This could lead to broader scrutiny of your studio."

Oliver Williams, Alex's father, interjected. "I've seen the measures the boys have discussed, and I believe they're approaching this responsibly. We'll work with distributors to ensure the game reaches the intended audience."

Alex nodded in agreement. "We're also monitoring feedback and remain open to discussions about additional steps, such as parental controls or guidelines, as the industry evolves."

Daniel relaxed slightly, though his expression remained serious. "Good. As your uncle and an investor, I want this game to succeed, but it's critical to stay ahead of potential controversies. Let's keep this conversation ongoing."

Alex thanked him before moving on. "In addition to Mortal Kombat, I'd like to talk about another project we're excited about: SimCity. This game, led by Will Wright, is set for release next February. It's a city-building simulation where players take on the role of a mayor, managing resources and making decisions to develop thriving cities. What's unique about SimCity is its educational value—it's a game that challenges players to think critically about urban planning and problem-solving while still being engaging and fun."

Mark Hunter leaned in, adding his perspective. "What's great about SimCity is how it appeals to a broader audience. It's not just for gamers—it's for anyone who enjoys creative problem-solving. We're confident it will expand Blue Star Interactive's reach."

The room seemed intrigued, and Alex capitalized on the momentum. "SimCity is also our first project to incorporate player feedback during development. Will has been working closely with test groups to fine-tune gameplay mechanics, ensuring a polished experience upon release."

David Henry, Michael's father, nodded approvingly. "That sounds promising. How are you planning to market it?"

"We're focusing on a multi-pronged approach," Alex replied. "There will be print ads in gaming magazines, demos at trade shows, and partnerships with educational organizations to highlight the game's value. We're also considering an arcade version to generate buzz before the PC release."

The shareholders exchanged nods, clearly impressed.

As Alex wrapped up his presentation, Daniel offered an approving smile. "You've got a sharp mind, Alex. Both Mortal Kombat and SimCity show your team's versatility. Let's make sure these games not only succeed but set a standard for the industry."

With that, Alex returned to his seat, feeling the weight of responsibility but also a sense of pride. Blue Star Interactive was just getting started, and he was determined to help lead it into a bright future.

As the discussions around Mortal Kombat and SimCity concluded, all eyes turned to Mark, the third co-founder of Blue Star Interactive. At 16, Mark had quickly proven himself as a talented programmer, designer and problem-solver within the studio.

Mark stood, taking a moment to adjust his glasses before addressing the room. "Thank you, Alex. Now, I'd like to present our upcoming title, Shadow Strike: Ninja Uprising. This 2D action platformer is set in a distant future where players assume the role of a skilled ninja navigating a world fraught with danger and intrigue."

He paused, gauging the room's interest. "The game features fast-paced combat, intricate level design, and a variety of upgradeable abilities to keep players engaged. Our inspiration for Shadow Strike stems from 2D platformers, such as Super Contra and Castlevania: Symphony of the Night, which captivated players with their engaging gameplay and intricate level designs."

Mark to a deep breath, taking a quick glance at his father, and two best friends as they giving a subtly nod. As he ready himself to touch a sensitive topic for him and his team back at studios.

He continued his expression turning serious, " While this game was born out of necessity after we had to put DOOM on hold, I believe Shadow Strike has the potential to stand on its own as a strong title in our portfolio."

Daniel Williams leaned forward, his expression curious. "What led to the setback with DOOM, Mark?"

Mark took a breath, steadying himself. Initially, our team was developing DOOM, a first-person shooter that we believed would push the boundaries of gaming. However, due to the current hardware limitations, we had to place the project on indefinite hold." ​​

Mark paused again for a brief moment, to give the room time to digest the news. "The vision we had for DOOM—a fully 3D, fast-paced first-person shooter—was too ambitious for the hardware we currently have access to. After months of development, we realized we couldn't achieve the quality we wanted without sacrificing performance. So, rather than compromise, we decided to place DOOM on indefinite hold until the technology catches up."

Mark continued, "While this setback was disappointing, it led us to pivot and focus on Shadow Strike. We've channeled our creativity and resources into crafting a game that not only pays homage to the classics but also introduces innovative mechanics and a compelling narrative."

David, nodded approvingly at Mark and his team decisions to pivot quickly in that time of situation. "That's a tough decision, but it sounds like the right one. How does Shadow Strike compare in terms of scope and expectations?"

Mark smiled faintly. "It's more grounded, both in terms of hardware requirements and gameplay mechanics. By focusing on a 2D platformer, we're able to push the artistic and technical boundaries without overextending ourselves. Plus, the gameplay is designed to be approachable yet challenging, appealing to hardcore gamers."

Jared decided to interjected at this time. "What about the release timeline? How does it fit into your overall schedule?"

Mark nodded. "We're on track to release Shadow Strike a few weeks after SimCity early next year. This staggered release strategy allows us to maintain momentum while giving each title its moment in the spotlight."

Oliver also chimed in. "And how do you plan to market Shadow Strike?

Mark replied with confidence. "Our marketing will emphasize the game's unique art style and fast-paced gameplay. We're planning to partner with arcade manufacturers to showcase the game at gaming expos and high-traffic arcades. Additionally, we'll have demo versions available for home computer and consoles to drive interest in the full release."

Daniel Williams, CEO of Noir Trending and a significant investor in Blue Star Interactive, leaned forward, his interest piqued. "Mark, it's commendable how your team adapted to the challenges with DOOM. Can you elaborate on the unique features that Shadow Strike will offer to set it apart in the market?"

Mark nodded, prepared for the inquiry. "Certainly, Mr. Williams. Shadow Strike will feature a dynamic combat system that allows players to seamlessly switch between stealth and direct confrontation. A branching storyline with multiple endings, encouraging replayability and player engagement."

He added, "Additionally, the game's art style combines traditional pixel art with modern effects, creating a visually striking experience. Our level design emphasizes exploration and discovery, rewarding players for their curiosity and strategic thinking. To find hidden level's throughout each level with unique challenges for the player tocomplete. "

The room buzzed with approval as Mark concluded his presentation. Daniel offered an approving nod. "It sounds like Shadow Strike has the potential to make a significant impact. I look forward to seeing how it performs in the market."


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  • Writing Quality
  • Stability of Updates
  • Story Development
  • Character Design
  • World Background

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