Started as a comics editor

Chapter 239 Mountain
Guan Lihui's guess was correct.

Although it is in the testing phase.

However, on the first day of the Hearthstone test, the players' online time was really outrageous!
Don't even mention late at night! Even in the early hours of the morning! You can still find players if you want to play!
It's easy to imagine how enthusiastic players are about this game.

To know.

Tang Yao did not screen players for this test.

Guan Lihui was just an accident.

Players are mostly selected randomly.

That makes it even more valuable!

of course.

On another point, Guan Lihui was also right.

Avalon's other two games weren't much worse.

On this day, the main attractions included not only Hearthstone, but also Yun and Fantasy Journey to the West.

Even the worst game, "Fantasy Journey to the West," had 80% of its players reach the highest level on the test server on the very first day!
Because this is a traditional turn-based game.

Therefore, even for testing, there are certain limitations regarding server level.

The maximum player level cannot exceed the server level plus ten; this is in preparation for future server merges.

As for why we need to roll over the contract.

Very simple.

Traditional 2D turn-based games have difficulty guaranteeing fairness.

Especially in terms of level and development progress.

As time goes on, it becomes extremely difficult for newcomers to catch up with those who came before.

At this point, a new server is needed to provide them with a fresh start, an opportunity to stand on the same starting line as all other players.

of course.

This is only one aspect of the reason; business considerations also play a significant role.

After all, this game is the only one of the three that is completely independent and co-operated with ANF.

Even if it's just to establish a prestigious reputation.

Business performance also can't be too bad.

After all, Avalon and ANF are both commercial companies, far from being able to do whatever they want.

And this result is quite impressive! Although it's the least popular of the three games, so many people have reached the highest server level! It's impossible for them to leave the next day, which is quite remarkable.

The games tested were all so outrageous.

Not to mention, the book "Hidden Essence" was released on the same day...

this day.

Both Hearthstone and Fantasy Westward Journey are in testing.

However, "Yun" is playable immediately upon release, and all content is playable.

Human beings generally share a similar perception of beautiful things.

Damian, who was far away on the other side of the Pacific Ocean, thought the game was beautiful, unique, and healing.

The same applies to domestic players.

Although they had already watched the live stream, once they actually bought the game and immersed themselves in it, they still found it fun... Many players even felt that, even among indie games, the quality of this mobile game was unparalleled.

'Youminzhidi', the largest comprehensive gaming forum in China.

Suddenly, many posts about the three games Avalon appeared.

Initially, not many people paid attention to it.

Although that live stream featuring anime girls caused quite a stir on this forum back then, it's all in the past now, and those who were interested have already pre-ordered and purchased the game from ANF.

Those who are not interested are likely not interested in the near future.

After all, the game community is always bustling, with new game discussion threads popping up and disappearing every day, coming and going like the tide.

Avalon's three games were initially just a few inconspicuous ripples in this tide, scattered across various sections, and only a small part of the many topics.

but.

As time went on, more and more people replied.

"I highly recommend all players give 'The Essence' a try! It only costs a little over ten yuan! In PC games, that might not even make a ripple, but here you can experience a spiritual journey. This game is truly as beautiful as a dream!"

"This game is truly amazing... impossible building, the misalignment mechanic, and most importantly, the art style and overall feel are unbelievably beautiful!"

"I recommend the game 'The Hidden Meaning'. Its only drawback is that it's not very long, but otherwise it's all good. Each chapter is like a parable about loss, redemption, and self-discovery..."

Even after completing the game, I still find myself repeatedly revisiting those Zen-like scenes. Perhaps this is the perfect fusion of art and gaming. I love this game, I really do.

"Have you guys played 'Yun'? Is it really a mobile game? It feels like it could totally be used to make an indie game. When did domestic game companies become so insightful?"

"After completing 'The Hidden Essence', I sat there in a daze for a long time..."

"..."

The most amazing thing is that you can always see similar replies under these posts: "I recommend it too", "I completely understand how you feel", "That's exactly the experience".

It seems that little explanation is needed; those who have played it will naturally understand.

Among the many posts on the forum, its style is quite unique.

Hearthstone is even more outrageous.

If "Yun" conquers players with its artistry and unique temperament...

Hearthstone, on the other hand, has a different kind of charm.

The endless charm of people competing with each other.

Even though Tang Yao has changed the game so much that it's almost unrecognizable, the players here are the same as the players in Tang Yao's previous life.

When recommending Hearthstone, almost every loyal player has the air of a salesperson...

Have you guys played Hearthstone? I highly recommend it! It's really fun, much better than I imagined... It simplifies resources, enhances randomness, and creates a unique fast-paced experience through class differentiation, although it's slightly less deep than traditional TCGs.

But it's really user-friendly for casual gamers. In fact, it's quite remarkable that video games have achieved this level of sophistication!
With its simple and easy-to-learn game rules, exquisite 3D board, stunning card effects, and cross-platform compatibility, the developers behind this game have truly put in a lot of effort. The game itself is exceptionally well-made, offering a unique experience unlike any other TCG. It's incredibly simple yet unbelievably fun. I highly recommend all card battle game enthusiasts give it a try; you won't regret it.

I even dare to make a bold claim: all other digital card battle games on the market have absolutely no advantage over this game! And this game will definitely become a massive hit!!!

This post is one of the simpler ones...

This user only briefly mentioned the game's features.

Some users even started writing lengthy posts, going into detail about the game's strengths and weaknesses, including its underlying rules, card design, and gameplay mechanics.

of course.

It's mainly praise.

These kinds of posts, which are like advertorials, with lots of words, pictures, and even videos, still get a ton of replies!
Moreover, the comments below were surprisingly consistent: "Awesome," "Indeed," and "Well said."

Behind this concise and powerful response lies the players' high recognition of the game's quality.

Of course, some people also come asking for decklists, sharing decklists, or sharing their highlight moments.

In short, it's filled with screenshots of matches, deck analyses, and ladder tips, among other things.

Actually, there weren't many players in the first batch of testers, but there were still so many people sharing and replying.

This can only illustrate one problem.

These players genuinely love this game!

They even like it so much that... after playing the game, they can't wait to actively seek out other like-minded people to share it.

Their posts are still very attractive to players who wouldn't normally pay attention to them.

After all, advertorials are not yet a mainstream form of advertising in the world today.

At that time, it was also the perfect time to capitalize on the mobile era.

Hearthstone is also a cross-platform game.

Players browsing forums watched the special effects of Hearthstone cards flash across the screen, saw various players sharing unforgettable gaming experiences, and heard them describe the game's irresistible strategic charm.

There are definitely some who are interested.

Many players are starting to flock to ANF...

They wanted to play too.

They relied solely on tap water and the initial wave of publicity.

Avalon's three games have directly entered the mainstream players' field of vision!
It has to be said that this is quite a miracle.

And the buzz is still building!

……

at the same time.

ANF ​​is incredibly busy!
Avalon isn't much better!

However, the Hearthstone development team was the main source of the feedback; there was just too much feedback from players on the first day of testing! Absurdly so! It was as if every player who participated in the test had provided feedback.

You know, this is a really outrageous thing!
Si Jinliang hasn't stopped working for the past two days; he's either confirming or solving problems.

of course.

Most of them are minor issues; there are no major problems that would directly affect the gaming experience.

Most of the feedback from players concerns the strength of certain cards.

However, you can't rely on just one player's opinion. For example, some players might lose a game and then say that a certain card is too strong, which is very subjective.

This requires research by the project team.

So Si Jinliang and his team are really busy.

But I'm also very excited.

Because the game's test data is just too good!!!
And the other side.

Tang Yao didn't bother them. Although she paid attention to the game, she was mostly busy with her own things. She would only help Si Jinliang when he asked for her help, such as when they were really unsure about certain cards.

After all, Tang Yao's memories from her previous life weren't omnipotent.

Moreover, online games are constantly being updated, so we can't rely on her memories forever.

This is also meant to give them some exercise.

"Tang Yao! Tang Yao!"

The whole of Avalon was buzzing with excitement.

Tang Yao was thinking about the design proposal for her next game.

Da da da.

Accompanied by the sound of high heels clicking on the ground.

Li Xue's voice suddenly rang out, unusually tinged with excitement. Tang Yao turned around and found Li Xue standing behind her, her breasts heaving as she breathed slightly.

It seems they came running.

Tang Yao was stunned.

then.

Before she could react.

Li Xue reached out and took the mouse from her, then opened the largest overseas video website.

Then, she found a video posted by a new account called 'Real Player' with an interesting title: "The Decline and Rebirth of Gaming Media".

The video cover features a torn poster of "Eternal Warriors" and... the main view of "The Essence".

"Look at this!"

Li Xue released the mouse, then pressed on Tang Yao's shoulder, took a deep breath, and stopped panting.

Tang Yao was curious about why Li Xue was so excited, so she started reading.

This appears to be a video posted by an editor named Damian, in which he accuses the game review website he works for of taking large sums of money and releasing all sorts of scandals, while... strongly praising the game "Yun" and even trying it out in the video.

The video has a high number of views.

Millions of dollars.

"This is……"

The video has finished playing.

Tang Yao turned around, her fair and clean face full of curiosity.

"Advertisement! Free advertisement!"

Li Xue gently squeezed Tang Yao's shoulder and said happily, "It seems that this person was asked by the review website to write a promotional article, but he refused, so he resigned in anger and then became a freelance reviewer. At the same time, he released this video, denouncing that review website, which attracted many players who were dissatisfied with that review website."

Originally, the players just wanted to see him reveal some information! But in the end, they were drawn in by the game he showcased! It's our game, *Yun*, and right now, *Yun*'s overseas sales are skyrocketing!

"I just checked, and this game has already been downloaded 210 million times overseas!"

"Our income is almost over ten million!!!"

"And that doesn't even include domestic sales! Overseas sales alone are almost ten million! And the reputation is excellent! Take a look at this!"

Say it.

Li Xue leaned forward again, half-lying on Tang Yao, and took her mouse to open the GP PLAY store.

Tang Yao's head held an arrogant expression: "()"

However, she was indeed curious, but she couldn't be bothered to care anymore. She looked at the screen again, and then a surprised expression appeared on her face.

"Playing this game is one of the most wonderful times I've ever had, and that wonderful feeling is immeasurable."

"A brilliant design...it's like a dream I can never forget."

"Monument Valley is all about tranquility; every frame is a work of art!"

"Incredibly gorgeous..."

"..."

This is the game review section of the app store.

And there are many more comments like this.

Tang Yao was somewhat stunned.

And this time.

Li Xue straightened up, her excited voice ringing out again: "Tang Yao, our game is a huge hit overseas... The overseas market alone is enough to cover the production and marketing costs! And this is just the beginning! This doesn't even include the domestic market! Including the domestic market, so far, this game has generated revenue seven times higher than its cost!"

"That's not the most important thing."

"Most importantly! Avalon has achieved a great start!"

"The voyage to sea was a success!"

"..."

Tang Yao was silent for a moment after hearing this, then finally reacted, and a bright smile bloomed on her beautiful face. She said softly, "When the time is right, heaven and earth will lend their strength."

Actually, she didn't expect it either.

The reason this game was able to open up overseas markets in this way is that her initial plan was to focus on word-of-mouth.

Did not expect ah.

This review editor was a huge help!

"Do not."

Upon hearing this, Li Xue immediately retorted, "This isn't an opportunity, it's your vision. If you hadn't discovered this game, if you hadn't advocated for going overseas... we wouldn't be in this situation today!"

Upon hearing this, Tang Yao turned her head and looked at Miss Li, whose beautiful face was flushed and who was somewhat excited. She chuckled and said, "Miss Li, don't get excited yet... This isn't over yet. The overseas market is not our focus right now. Although success is certainly something to be happy about, the domestic market is the priority right now."

"Of course I know."

Li Xue rolled her eyes at Tang Yao upon hearing this: "I just wanted to share this good news with you as soon as possible... The situation in China is also very good."

Speaking of which.

She began to tell Tang Yao about the performance of the three domestic games: "Hearthstone's second-day retention rate was as high as 86%, and on the first day of testing, players played an average of 21 games per day..."

Tang Yao was stunned when she heard this data.

This is a very outrageous figure.

An average of 21 games per day.

The other two games are also good.

These are the kinds of data that... small companies would probably be ready to prepare champagne immediately upon hearing.

then.

Li Xue then told Tang Yao about the situation with ANF.

It's just as good.

Although Hearthstone and Fantasy Westward Journey have not yet been officially released, judging from the current situation... Avalon is definitely going to establish itself.

"very good……"

Regarding the game's popularity.

Tang Yao was somewhat prepared.

Although things have exceeded expectations...

So after hearing this, she wasn't just happy; she immediately started thinking about the next steps.

Li Xue noticed this and stood quietly to the side, not disturbing Tang Yao.

soon.

Tang Yao raised her head and made a decision: "Miss Li, could you please call Cai Quan and Si Jinliang to the conference room for a meeting later? Let's strike while the iron is hot and expand our advantage... I've looked into it, and the Hearthstone test was extremely successful. Let's move the next batch of test codes earlier, shorten the testing period, and bring forward the public beta date."

It will probably only take about a week for the hype to build up, and it will be time for all players to get their hands on it.

Of course, it's not just about getting started... the ANF events can also be moved forward. Besides the "First Legendary Event," I'm also planning to host an online tournament on ANF.

"The competition?"

Li Xue paused, looking at Tang Yao's delicate profile, and asked with some curiosity, "Hearthstone?"

Tang Yao nodded: "Yes, we'll discuss the details later."

"Okay, I'll go get help."

Li Xue nodded and agreed, but before leaving, she took a special look at Tang Yao, who was unusually serious and completely different from her usual self.

Tang Yao is truly charming when she gets serious.

Anyway, Li Xue thought it was very charming.

until.

Tang Yao seemed to realize something and looked up. Only then did Li Xue turn around and stride forward.

Li Xue walked down the corridor of Avalon, watching the busy and happy staff on both sides.

I suddenly felt a bit sentimental.

At this point in time, mobile games are still a completely new and unexplored field.

Does anyone think it's a good fit?
Of course there are.

Isn't that the Nine Heavens?

But they were mostly forced into it.

As for other large and small factories, it goes without saying that the former have the strength but no will, at most they can launch a project team to keep up with the trend and test the market as guinea pigs, while the latter have the will but no power.

But it was under these circumstances.

Tang Yao chose to make mobile games, launched FGO, and became famous overnight!
Actually, after FGO succeeded.

She can slow down and take things one step at a time.

After all, no one is certain whether the second mobile game will be successful, or whether this path is viable.

even.

Li Xue estimates that many people are pessimistic about Avalon's future after Tang Yao showed so many games in her live stream.

After all, even the big companies haven't invested heavily, so why are you in such a hurry? Do you think you know more than those big companies?

Putting everything else aside... even she was worried about it.

But Tang Yao ultimately used the game to give these people a resounding slap in the face!

Hearthstone is incredibly popular and has huge potential.

"Fantasy Journey to the West" is a steady and reliable project with guaranteed commercial returns.

"The Essence" has received rave reviews and has even made its way into overseas markets.

Three games, three completely different logics to success, but they all point to the same conclusion—Avalon's gamble paid off.

Avalon has firmly established itself.

And all of this... is because of Tang Yao.

I have to say, that's really amazing!
Li Xue even felt that...

Once all the games revealed this time are on track, Avalon might become a major obstacle in the mobile game industry, an obstacle that no developer can avoid!
I don't know either...

I wonder what Jiuxiao will think then.

Have you heard the news yet?

Li Xue thought to herself with a touch of wicked humor.

Suddenly... I became quite interested in their reactions.

(End of this chapter)