Started as a comics editor

Chapter 306 Large Projects and Small Projects

Avalon.

The Left 4 Dead project team was filled with a slightly tired but exhilarating sense of excitement, typical of those who succeed in a project.

If they were the most worried before the game's release, they were also the happiest after its release.

"After the toolkit was released, we were working hard on the official Chainsaw Man mod... but now it seems that it's not necessary."

Li Zhongzhi looked at Tang Yao, who had come over to ask questions, and joked, "After all, it seems that the players are very enthusiastic right now... We don't need to do anything."

Tang Yao looked away from the screen and shook her head slightly: "Now it seems there's really no need... The player community is more active than we imagined, but for an IP of the scale of Chainsaw Man, since we've started, let's continue... Just think of it as a signal, a promise, this is our solemn response to a specific player group—those comic book readers who love this work."

In a way, this can be considered a different kind of promotion... We really haven't had time to focus on the comics lately.

"Ah."

Li Zhongzhi nodded slightly and smiled, "I was just joking. I will do my best to do it well and launch it as soon as possible... But speaking of this period of time, President Tang, have you started a big project?"

The conversation naturally turned to the future.

Tang Yao did not deny it, but instead asked, "You've heard about it too?"

"Hmm... I'm actually quite curious, would you mind telling me?"

"That's no problem... The success of 'Left 4 Dead' proves that we're on the right track, and Avalon naturally can't stop here. In the next few years, we do have a few projects to launch... But rather than large-scale projects, they're more like several parallel exploration directions. There are quite a few projects approved, but they don't prioritize efficiency; they're mainly focused on experimentation and exploration."

Seeing that Li Zhongzhi was really interested, Tang Yao explained: "First of all, it is a MOBA or FPS online game project. This is not a spur-of-the-moment decision, but an inevitable extension based on the experience accumulated in the past, the increasingly mature user base of the AG platform, and the reserves of network technology."

After all, online games have a more stable revenue stream compared to single-player games.

We need a core project that can operate sustainably, deeply engage users, and possess strong esports potential, as one of the pillars of Avalon for the next few years.

"Secondly."

Tang Yao paused for a moment, then continued, "It's a single-player action-adventure game, tentatively codenamed... well, Spider-Man. I'll call it a popcorn game. Its main selling point is the ultimate thrill of high-speed, smooth movement and combat in a three-dimensional urban space."

The goal of this game is to create a high-quality, casual single-player game that surpasses typical industrial standards, while also building upon existing experience in action, narrative, open-world exploration, and the overall control of large-scale single-player projects.

"at last."

Tang Yao breathed a sigh of relief: "It's a cross-platform technology verification project... We don't plan to make a specific game for the time being. It's just for technology verification. I want to try to build a fantasy world framework that is large enough, vivid enough, and can seamlessly support mobile exploration and PC console deep immersion experience."

Its core gameplay remains open-world exploration, but compared to the urban setting of Spider-Man, this project will explore deeper levels of interaction... such as elemental reaction systems, dynamic interactions driven by physics rules and a chemical engine, and the resulting world interaction and the fun of exploring the unknown.

In short, it is essentially a large-scale technological sandbox and a testing ground for future game formats.

"..."

Li Zhongzhi was stunned, and his breathing became slightly rapid.

Is this just a trial and error? This is clearly an ambitious strategic blueprint that spans multiple fields and is enough to define Avalon's strategic blueprint for the next few years!

Each of these projects, taken individually, seems enough to require the full effort of a top-tier studio!
but.

Looking at the beautiful boss standing there, Li Zhongzhi recalled the miracles she had created, the miracles that had led from "FGO" to "Left 4 Dead," and suddenly it all seemed quite reasonable...

After all, Avalon's current level of success would have been unrealistic when he first joined the company.
So he quickly accepted it and even became secretly excited.

As for why I was excited.

He couldn't quite understand it either... Maybe it was because he felt like he was participating in history?

While thinking, Li Zhongzhi asked, "I can understand everything else... but what are you referring to, MOBA and that cross-platform experimental project you mentioned at the end? I don't quite understand... elemental reactions, physical rules, chemical engines, world interaction and exploration fun?"

"...In MOBA, you can simply understand it as a game where players focus on controlling a meticulously designed hero character from a perspective similar to RTS, cooperating with teammates and fighting against the enemy camp on a structured map... But it strips away the complex resource gathering, base building, and unit production micro-management of traditional RTS, focusing instead on hero control, skill release, team coordination, and the struggle for strategic objectives, emphasizing both individual skill and team strategy."

Tang Yao organized her thoughts and managed to offer a rough explanation.

to be frank.

The term MOBA was also coined; it's a classic case of the chicken and the egg coming first.

Tang Yao found it easy to understand... but explaining it was a bit troublesome.

Li Zhongzhi listened thoughtfully.

RTS? Players only control the hero? But don't need to manage the buildings, resources, or unit training common in RTS games? Is this a simplified RTS? But it doesn't quite feel like Tang Yao's style...

"As for the experimental project, I can't explain it clearly in a few words for now. It's more like a vision, a long-term technological reserve goal. There are many things that we need to explore and verify in the process. Perhaps we can describe it more clearly when we have achieved some results. In short, it is a long-term project."

Tang Yao paused for a moment, then continued, "I don't want to achieve something overnight, or create something groundbreaking immediately. Whether it's an online game or a single-player masterpiece... they are ultimately just games. In my opinion, the foundation of Avalon lies in the understanding and pursuit of the essence of the fun in games."

Speaking of which.

She chuckled softly, her voice seemingly transcending time and space, carrying a hint of nostalgia: "Making Hearthstone was to reminisce about the purity of strategy card games; making Undertale was to pay tribute to those independent spirits that touched the soul; making Outlast was to challenge the limits of the senses; making Left 4 Dead was to recreate the feeling of playing games with friends... And now, I'm a little missing the gaming experience of another dimension."

"..."

Li Zhongzhi did not understand.

In fact, apart from Li Xue who might be able to vaguely perceive something, it was difficult for others to understand.

Because the inspiration for that long-term experimental project... was none other than The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, which redefined the open world in Tang Yao's memory, and the later groundbreaking Genshin Impact.

The former needs no further explanation.

As for the latter, Tang Yao felt that it would be better for Avalon to do it itself rather than having someone else do it... after all, Avalon is an old-school anime and manga company.

However, the reason she started this project was because she missed those games.

She wanted to bring some of the things she missed into this world.

After all, as time goes by and she gets more and more used to her current identity... she's really afraid that one day she'll forget, or rather, become complacent, and that the passion and impulse from her past life will gradually fade away. Those exciting game experiences will be forever sealed in her memory, and she won't want to play those games anymore, even just thinking about them is too much trouble.

So, at this moment of great success with Left 4 Dead, she set an even greater goal for Avalon, and for the unextinguished flame in her own heart.

Having a goal is always good, just in case.
If it really works out, then Avalon can continue its journey after she takes a break and runs away!
of course.

This road is really difficult to travel.

Tang Yao didn't even suggest a specific game.

Even if the road ahead is difficult, as long as the direction is clear, take it one step at a time, tackle one project after another, keep learning and verifying... one day the accumulation of technology and experience will lead to a qualitative change.

"..."

to be frank.

Li Zhongzhi still didn't quite understand, but he clearly saw the pure love and determination in Tang Yao's eyes, and this enthusiasm infected him.

His doubts were gradually replaced by a strong sense of mission.

Putting everything else aside, isn't following a boss who dares to think and act, has clear goals and never forgets his original aspirations, and challenges seemingly impossible peaks exactly what every game developer dreams of?

So he asked directly, "These new projects...can I participate?"

Tang Yao was somewhat surprised upon hearing this: "Oh? Before the release of Left 4 Dead, didn't you complain to me that the pressure was too much and you couldn't take it anymore? Now that the game has finally achieved great success, it's time to relax and enjoy the fruits of your labor... Why have you suddenly changed your mind?"

Li Zhongzhi blushed slightly, but quickly suppressed it: "The pressure is immense... but seeing the results, seeing the current success of the AG platform, and especially hearing what you said, I'm full of energy again! The greater the challenge, the more interesting it is, isn't it?"

Moreover, I have a feeling that it would be an honor to participate in the project you proposed!

"...Of course there are opportunities."

Tang Yao was taken aback for a moment, then smiled brightly and said, "Avalon's future needs the efforts of every one of you staff members, but we're still in the preparation stage, so it's too early to talk about these things. And right now, the most important thing isn't the new project..."

She then changed the subject: "Right now, the most important thing is to help our first passenger—Qingfeng Studio and their film 'Hengdao Lima'—to gain a foothold on the AG platform."

Upon hearing this, Li Zhongzhi recalled something: "Hengdao Lima... I also played the demo of that game, and I found it very interesting."

"yes……"

Tang Yao responded, then realized that she had only come to check on the progress of the Chainsaw Man MOD... but she hadn't expected to be led astray by Li Zhongzhi and end up talking about future plans for so long.

She shook her head: "Alright, I won't keep you any longer. You can continue working on that Chainsaw Man collaboration mod."

"it is good."

"Remember to let me know when you're done."

Tang Yao nodded slightly, then turned and left the "Survival Road" project team.

Instead of returning to her office immediately, she habitually took a stroll through the various project teams.

About half an hour later, Tang Yao returned to her office.

She pushed open the door and was surprised to find someone inside.

In the quiet office, Li Xue stood in front of the large desk, her slender waist curving gracefully as she carefully gathered the scattered documents. The soft light shone on her, casting a warm glow on her long, flowing hair and outlining the delicate and beautiful profile of her face.

Hearing the door open, she immediately looked up, her beautiful face bearing a familiar, gentle smile: "You're back?"

Tang Yao nodded slightly: "Yes, we chatted for a while about the new project and found out about the progress of the Chainsaw Man MOD..."

She didn't finish her sentence.

Li Xue, wearing high heels, walked lightly to her.

"..."

Because they've been very busy lately, the two haven't met today. This is their first time seeing each other.

Li Xue blinked her beautiful eyes, her gaze lingering on Tang Yao... The thin white sweater perfectly outlined her graceful curves, while her lower body was clad in light blue cropped skinny jeans, which made her jade-like legs appear exceptionally long and straight. Her delicate and slender figure was exceptionally beautiful, and just standing there gracefully was a stunning sight.

So lovely.

Li Xue sighed inwardly, then glanced quickly over Tang Yao's shoulder at the closed door. Confirming no one was around, she turned back, her gaze falling on Tang Yao's stunningly beautiful face, and whispered, "Nobody's here..."

"..."

Tang Yao gave her a light glare.

As dusk streamed through the window, their shadows stretched long and were cast onto the polished floor, creating a beautiful silhouette.

I don't know how many minutes passed, maybe just a moment.

"That new project is a huge undertaking."

Li Xue wrapped her arm around Tang Yao's fair neck, but her feet were on the ground: "I feel like Avalon won't be able to stay idle at all from now on."

"Yes, the business has been spread out a bit too wide."

Tang Yao turned her small face slightly, her fair cheeks showing dependence. She gently rubbed against Li Xue's fair and delicate neck, smelling the faint fragrance on her body, and whispered, "MOBA or FPS online games, industrial popcorn single-player games like Spider-Man, and that most troublesome technical verification project... just thinking about it makes me feel like I've dug a huge hole for myself."

Feeling the warm touch on her neck, Li Xue looked at Tang Yao's fair and delicate earlobes and her graceful swan neck, and asked softly, "But you seem to be looking forward to it?"

"Um……"

Tang Yao frankly said, "...Yes, there is some. Although I know the road ahead will be difficult and every step will require a huge amount of resources and time, I am still looking forward to it."

She paused, then looked up.

Those clear, watery eyes reflected Li Xue up close as she asked curiously, "By the way, speaking of laying the foundation... any news from Qingfeng Studio? How are they doing with the DEMO of 'Hengdao Lima' based on the optimization suggestions? We also sent them the preliminary plan and testing arrangements for platform integration a few days ago."

Mention business.

Li Xue frowned slightly, revealing a seriousness she displayed at work: "I was just about to tell you this. Technical support and business support have both been followed up. Avalon's attitude and resource support are definitely top-notch."

However… regarding the final signing of the contract, the confirmation of the launch schedule, and our preliminary publicity plan… Qingfeng Studio hasn't given us a formal response yet.”

Speaking of which.

She paused slightly, her tone tinged with confusion: "...It's strange."

"Haven't you replied yet?"

Tang Yao was slightly taken aback, and also somewhat surprised.

……

The momentum of Left 4 Dead has not diminished over time; on the contrary, it has grown even stronger like a snowball rolling downhill.

The opening of the Workshop ignited boundless enthusiasm in the player community, with hundreds of new mods emerging every day. From parody character skins to revolutionary gameplay rule modifications, from rough but promising map prototypes to gradually polished campaign levels, the entire game ecosystem is expanding and evolving at an astonishing pace under the spontaneous creativity of players.

While Left 4 Dead was enjoying immense popularity, on the other side of Shanghai, in the somewhat cramped office of Qingfeng Studio, the atmosphere was rather somber.

Qiu Gaoxing and Wang Meng were sitting in front of a computer.

The screen didn't display their hard work, "Holding a Sword and Standing Tall," but rather the despairing statistics from "Left 4 Dead."

This is the second week that the two of them have been staring at the screen like this...

The ever-increasing player numbers, the explosive community buzz, and the overwhelming praise from the media... each of these things weighed heavily on their hearts like a boulder.

Both of them were numb.

"This is absolutely outrageous..."

Qiu stared at the astonishing numbers on the screen, his Adam's apple bobbing involuntarily.

"This is absolutely holy crap..."

Upon hearing this, Wang Meng turned his head and looked at his partner's furrowed brows and bloodshot eyes, feeling a similar heaviness in his heart.

He could understand Qiu Gaoxing's hesitation, because she had hesitated too. Left 4 Dead was too popular, more popular than anyone had imagined, including themselves...

The sales figures, the reputation, and the phenomenal popularity are like an insurmountable mountain, standing in the way of "Hengdao Lima" as it prepares to launch on the AG platform.

Their small studio poured all their energy into creating this game, and now it's going to compete against monsters like this???

Is this for real?! Are you kidding me?!
Even if they know deep down that "Hengdao Lima" is not worthy of competing on the same stage!

But simply having the title of 'AG platform's first third-party single-player game' appear on the same homepage... was enough to make the two of them feel an almost suffocating pressure and... a guilty conscience.

The two were genuinely afraid that after its release, "Hengdao Lima" would be overshadowed by the dazzling success of "Left 4 Dead," becoming as insignificant as dust and easily overlooked by players, or even attracting merciless ridicule—"Is this all the first third-party single-player game from AG platform?"

Just imagining the possible comments sent chills down their spines and made them restless.

But we really can't delay any longer.

A long silence filled the small office.

Qiu Gaoxing finally opened his email, staring at the fateful message from Avalon. After a long while, he suddenly turned to Wang Meng and asked, "Do you think... we're being too presumptuous? Posting 'Holding a Sword and Riding a Horse' at this time feels like... like lighting a candle next to the sun. Who can see it? Who will care?"

"Then give up?"

Upon hearing this, Wang Meng immediately retorted, "Are you willing to accept this? Or are you saying..."

He picked up the meticulously worded, detail-rich optimization proposal sent by the Avalon technical team from the table: "Are you willing to give up?"

Qiu Gaoxing fell silent again upon hearing this. He glanced at the email, then looked down at the documents Wang Meng had pushed towards him. His Adam's apple bobbed, and after a few seconds of silence, he said, "...Damn! But I'm so fucking scared!"

"Me too……"

"..."

perhaps.

Tang Yao never dreamed of this.

These two! They actually hesitated and dreaded releasing their game on the AG platform because Left 4 Dead is so popular!

If she found out, she'd probably explode on the spot!
What kind of illogical thinking is this?!
"But we really can't delay any longer."

The two remained silent for a while.

Then Qiu Gaoxing suddenly sighed and gritted his teeth, saying, "Why don't we just go for it!"

Wang Meng patted his shoulder hard, his voice low and deep: "...If you're not willing to give up, then you can only fight."

"I hope I don't get criticized too harshly."

"I hope I won't be ridiculed."

"Hopefully, this can end in a dignified manner."

"Hopefully it won't be crushed by Left 4 Dead."

"We hope players will be kind with their words..."

"Hopefully... we can sell 10,000 copies?"

"hope……"

The two of them talked on and on, like they were performing a comedy routine or making a birthday wish, rambling on about a lot of humble expectations.

And then finally... he replied to Avalon.

But after replying, the two became even more uneasy... to be honest.

They lacked genuine confidence in their game and remained skeptical of the AG platform itself. While Left 4 Dead was a huge success, they attributed it entirely to Avalon's unparalleled production capabilities.

can only say.

Their concerns... will likely continue for some time.

……

Unlike Qiu Gaoxing and the other two who dawdled.

Avalon's response was swift and decisive, a stark contrast to Qingfeng Studio's hesitant and apprehensive approach.

Qingfeng Studio had just made a difficult decision a few days ago.

AG Platform's official account and other Avalon channels have officially announced the exclusive launch date and first official promotional PV for AG Platform's first third-party collaborative game, "Hengdao Lima".

And this news had just been released.

For an instant.

Expectations, curiosity, doubts, encouragement... a flood of voices emerged.

Avalon's peers and the entire industry are paying close attention.

Everyone wants to know, after the phenomenal success of Left 4 Dead, what kind of performance will the first third-party game to debut on the Avalon platform, "Hands Out," deliver? Will it be a resounding success for the Avalon game distribution platform? Or... a dismal exit?

The entire industry is waiting, waiting for this 'debut'.

(End of this chapter)