After the GOTY events are announced, everyone on ZEB eagerly rushes to take their seats atop the main buildings of the complex. There's a palpable buzz in the air, with people chatting excitedly, grinning, and waving commemorative ZAGE flags in anticipation. The entire atmosphere is electric, filled with energy and enthusiasm, as the crowd prepares for the grand start of the much-anticipated Game of the Year celebration.
Soon after, Zaboru makes his entrance onto the stage, greeted by thunderous applause from the enthusiastic crowd. He's dressed in a striking Fallout Pip-Boy outfit, complete with a functioning replica of the iconic device on his arm. "Hello everyone!" he announces with a wide grin, clearly enjoying the moment. The audience cheers even louder, clapping and waving their flags. "Thank you all for attending ZAGE's very first Game of the Year event outside of Japan—GOTY 1994!" he proclaims. The applause surges again, full of excitement and pride.
"Well, I will be your MC for this year's GOTY!" Normally, in the ZAGE Japan Game of the Year event, the Master of Ceremonies is Zaoru's secretary, Yumi Ichijou. However, since this event is being held in the USA and she's not confident in her English, she declined the role. As a result, Zaboru himself is stepping up to lead the celebration—an exciting twist for fans! The event is also being broadcast live on televisions around the world, making it a truly global occasion.
"Okay, regardless of anything, we will show you the first performance of our guest star, and it's none other than… Michael Jackson!" Zaboru announced with dramatic flair, his voice rising over the roar of the crowd. The audience erupted into thunderous cheers and gasps of astonishment—no one expected a Michael Jackson concert at this event!
Suddenly, the lights dimmed, and the familiar sharp beat of Smooth Criminal began to pulse through the speakers. A spotlight swept across the stage, landing on Michael Jackson as he emerged wearing the iconic white suit, fedora tilted just right, just like in his Smooth Criminal video. The crowd surged with excitement, some jumping to their feet while others waved ZAGE flags furiously.
Zaboru smiled proudly and gave a respectful nod as he stepped offstage, letting the King of Pop take over. Michael Jackson struck a pose, and as the first note dropped, he launched into his legendary performance. The audience was utterly captivated, clapping in rhythm and singing along. It was a surprise that would be remembered forever.
Michael Jackson's involvement as a guest star at ZAGE events all began with a personal invitation from Zaboru himself. Of course, Zaboru handled it with professionalism—offering Michael a fair appearance fee for his participation. However, Michael's enthusiasm went far beyond business. He was genuinely excited to attend the event and share in the celebration. These days, Michael Jackson has become an avid gamer. It all started when he played Moonwalker, a custom-made game developed by Zaboru that starred Michael as the main character. That experience sparked a deep love for gaming in him.
Since then, Michael has explored many ZAGE titles, finding not just entertainment but also solace. Video games became a powerful outlet for him, helping to ease his anxiety and overthinking. His connection with ZAGE grew stronger with each game he played, and so did his friendship with Zaboru. Now, his appearances at ZAGE events aren't just professional engagements—they're heartfelt moments shared among friends and fellow fans. Michael's love for gaming and his genuine bond with Zaboru are the real reasons he's thrilled to be part of the ZAGE celebration.
After the phenomenal performance by Michael Jackson, Zaboru returns to the stage, his expression both energized and focused as he prepares to guide the next part of the evening. "Now," he begins, his voice clear and full of anticipation, "we move on to the heart of the event—the ZAGE Game of the Year awards!"
He takes a thoughtful pause before continuing, "Also, starting this year, we're officially retiring the Best Characters category. It was a tough decision, but we felt that with so many amazing characters across different games, it's simply not fair to single out just one. They all deserve recognition."
A soft ripple of murmurs passes through the audience, some nodding in agreement while others exchange understanding glances. Though the announcement surprises a few, it's clear the reasoning resonates with the crowd, who appreciate the inclusive sentiment behind the change.
Award Categories for GOTY 1994
"Okay, so the categories are!"
Game of the Year 1994
Best Gameplay
Best Soundtrack
Best Co-op Game
Best Story
"This is our categories! And now we will start from the Best Gameplay! And the Best Gameplay nominees are".:
Spawn
Starfox
Diablo
Super Metroid
Tales of Phantassisa
Earthworm Jim
Zaboru then announced, with enthusiasm building in his voice, "And the winner for Best Gameplay of GOTY 1994 is… Super Metroid!" The crowd erupted into loud cheers and applause, their excitement echoing throughout the venue. Despite its very recent release, Super Metroid has already captivated players around the world with its tight controls, engaging level design, and highly replayable mechanics.
Behind Zaboru, the massive screen lit up with a dramatic animation: Samus Aran stepped into view in her iconic Power Suit, equipped with her arm cannon In a stunning visual moment, she aimed and fired at the screen, which cracked with a dazzling effect that made the audience gasp in awe.
"Even though Super Metroid only came out a couple of days ago, it's clear this game has already stolen countless players' hearts!" Zaboru declared with a proud smile.
The ZAGE GOTY nomination form had been distributed since early December with the release of ZAGE POWER, but final submissions were accepted up to December 23. In just five days, Super Metroid managed to surge ahead and claim the win—an incredible feat that speaks volumes about its instant impact and enduring appeal.
Zaboru then continued, "Okay, the next category is Best Soundtrack! And nominees are…"
Guitar Hero
Kirby Super Stars
Final Fantasy 3
Moonwalker
Dance Dance Revolution
Super Mario World
Zaboru beamed and announced with flair, "And the winner is Guitar Hero!" The crowd erupted into enthusiastic applause, many fans whistling and cheering loudly—clearly thrilled with the result. "You all really love Guitar Hero songs, huh?" he added with a chuckle. Behind him, the massive screen flickered to life, displaying a vibrant Guitar Hero character rocking out on stage with a blazing solo, fingers flying across the fretboard as animated lights pulsed in sync with the beat. The audience clapped along, some mimicking air guitar moves in celebration of the game's memorable soundtrack.
Zaboru then continued, "Okay, next is for Best Co-op Game—a game that's really good to play with your friends. And the nominees are…"
Super Bomberman
Virtual Cop
Mortal Kombat
Diablo
Contra 2: Alien Wars
The Lost Viking
"The winner for ZAGE GOTY 1994 for Best Co-op is… Diablo!" Zaboru declared with a triumphant smile. The audience erupted into enthusiastic applause, many cheering and nodding in agreement. After all, playing Diablo cooperatively with friends had become a beloved pastime—its mix of strategy, dark fantasy atmosphere, and thrilling dungeon-crawling made it a standout multiplayer experience. Just then, the massive screen behind Zaboru lit up, revealing an animated scene of Diablo himself laughing ominously, fire swirling around him. The dramatic visual drew a mix of gasps and delighted laughter from the crowd, who loved the display.
"Next is the last category before the GOTY, and it's none other than Best Story. The nominees are…"
Spawn
Fallout
Final Fantasy 3
Beauty and the Beast
Tales of Phantasia
Shin Megami Tensei
"And the winner for ZAGE GOTY 1994 of Best Story is… Fallout!" Zaboru declared with a flourish, and the audience erupted into enthusiastic applause. The crowd clearly resonated with this choice, recognizing Fallout's deeply immersive narrative, branching storylines, and the unique freedom it offers players. While the other nominees like Final Fantasy 3 presented powerful and emotional journeys, Fallout stood out for its complexity and replayability. On the massive screen behind Zaboru, an animated Pip-Boy character popped up, giving a cheerful thumbs-up and jumping up and down with infectious excitement, further delighting the cheering fans.
Zaboru then grinned, "Okay… now for the GOTY of 1994, and the nominees are!"
Final Fantasy 3
Fallout
Diablo
Super Metroid
Guitar Hero
Spawn
Zaboru then said, "These games are great, and I'm truly thrilled by how enthusiastic all the ZAGE players have been about them. Every single nominee brought something special to the table, and it's a testament to how incredible this year has been for gaming. But in the end, there can only be one winner... and that winner is... DIABLO!"
As the crowd erupted in cheers and claps, the massive screen behind Zaboru transitioned to a dynamic animated sequence. Diablo, towering and menacing in the fiery depths of his lair, let out a terrifying roar. But then, from the shadows, a Warrior, a Sorcerer, and a Rogue emerged, weapons and magic at the ready. They launched into an epic battle sequence, ultimately overcoming the demon lord in a spectacular blaze of light and energy. The crowd gasped, then burst into even louder applause, thoroughly impressed by the thrilling finale.
Zaboru then said with a wide smile, "Okay, that's it for ZAGE GOTY! Our next event will focus on the best games outside of the ZAGE lineup! We'll take a short break—but don't go anywhere, because we'll dive straight into it right after! And now... here's another special appearance by none other than Michael Jackson!"
Once again, the King of Pop takes the stage, sending a wave of excitement through the audience. His presence lights up the arena as the crowd erupts into cheers, their energy renewed. Michael launches into another dazzling performance that delighted the fans.
To be continued.
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