Becoming the Strongest as a Game Dev

Cedric turns to Adder, his brow raised with interest. "And what is your simulation, young Caliban?"

Adder's chest swells with pride.

"My simulation is set in a futuristic city, where technology and magic coexist in a dazzling display of power and innovation."

"The player takes on the role of a skilled bounty hunter, tasked with hunting down a notorious criminal overlord who has been terrorizing the streets."

"The city is a sprawling metropolis, its towering skyscrapers adorned with neon-lit advertisements and hovering vehicles that dart through the air."

"But beneath the gleaming facade, a darker underbelly thrives. Shadowy alleyways, seedy bars, and underground markets provide the perfect hunting grounds for our protagonist. Wielding a mix of advanced firearms and arcane abilities, the bounty hunter must navigate this treacherous world, gathering clues and taking down the overlord's henchmen one by one."

Cedric listens intently, nodding occasionally as Adder describes the intricate details of his simulation. The older man's eyes sparkle with genuine interest, eager to see how this futuristic world will unfold.

Cedric nods, a glimmer of interest in his eyes. "An intriguing premise, Caliban. I believe my daughter Aria would be the perfect one to put your simulation through its paces."

Adder's lips curl into a smug grin. "Then by all means, let the lady have a go at it."

Aria steps forward, her expression calm and collected. Cedric gestures to a nearby chair, and as Aria sits, a sleek helmet lowers over her face, connecting her to the simulation.

Cedric then says, "Let us observe the simulation as Aria explores it."

Sam looks to Cedric, inquiring, "And how will we view her experience?"

Cedric gestures to a nearby panel, and a holographic screen materializes before them. "This screen is linked to Aria's helmet, allowing us to witness the simulation from her perspective."

The screen flickers to life, revealing the bustling futuristic cityscape Adder had described.

In the simulation, they could see Aria's avatar. It was a rugged man wearing a shawl, wild rag, and hat, similar to a cowboy. The right arm is cybernetic, a sleek metallic limb with a myriad of plates and joints that seamlessly integrated with the avatar's body. Two futuristic pistols rested on both sides of the avatar's hips, their designs a harmonious blend of advanced technology and old-west aesthetics.

Aria's avatar moved with a fluid grace, his steps light and nimble despite the heavy-duty gear. His golden eyes scanned the environment, taking in the towering skyscrapers and the bustling streets below.

Sam is quite interested in the setting. From what he could see, the city is based on a Cyberpunk setting, and the character is a futuristic cowboy, quite a combination, he thought. The level of detail in the environment and the seamless integration of technology with the protagonist's design was impressive.

Adder arrogantly asks, "Well, Genesis, are you not impressed?" His tone is dripping with condescension.

Sam considers his words carefully before responding. "I must admit, the setting and character design are quite unique. It's an interesting blend of styles." He keeps his expression neutral, not wanting to inflate Adder's ego.

Adder's lips curl into a smug grin. "Unique, you say? Just wait until you see what else I have in store. I'll be sure to humble you when I win this competition."

"We'll see, Caliban."

Yuna gestures towards the screen. "Shh, Aria is about to start."

They all watch intently as Aria begins the simulation.

I study my avatar, a rugged-looking man with a stoic expression. The city sprawls before me, a labyrinth of towering structures and neon-lit streets. Sleek vehicles glide silently along the roads, and the air hums with the constant activity of this vibrant metropolis.

Yet, beneath the surface, I sense an undercurrent of darkness—a hidden tension that simmers just out of sight. The inhabitants move with a sense of purpose, but their eyes seem haunted, as if they're constantly on edge.

The vibration in my cybernetic arm catches my attention. I glance down and see a holographic image of my next target—Vinny Moretti, the leader of the Crimson Knives gang. Their organization operates in the shadows, dealing in illicit goods and weapons. With a network of enforcers and hackers, they control various districts through fear and respect.

I study the details on Vinny. The intel suggests he's got a strategic mind and doesn't shy away from getting his hands dirty. Rivals and the authorities alike know to watch their backs around him.

Not much else to go on, though. Gathering intel isn't exactly my forte.

I scan the bustling city streets, taking in the details. Perhaps a visit to one of the local establishments would yield more information.

"Gathering intel is a must first. I wonder if I could find an establishment to gather info."

I scan the bustling streets, searching for a suitable place to gather information. My gaze settles on a dimly lit bar, its neon sign flickering in the distance.

"This will do,"

I make my way towards the entrance and open the door. The door creaks open, and the scent of stale beer and cigarette smoke hits me. I step inside, my eyes quickly adjusting to the low lighting. Patrons huddle around tables, their voices a dull murmur as they nurse their drinks.

I make my way to the bar counter, where a bartender is meticulously cleaning glasses. His eyes flick up as I approach.

"Good evening, stranger. How may I help you?"

"A whiskey, neat,"

The bartender nods, reaching for a glass and a bottle of amber liquid. He pours the drink with practiced precision, then slides it across the counter towards me.

"There you go."

I wrap my fingers around the glass, the cool surface offering a momentary respite from the bustling atmosphere. Taking a sip, I savor the familiar burn as the whiskey travels down my throat.

Placing the glass back on the counter, I clear my throat.

"Excuse me, have you heard of a man named Vinny Moretti?"

As the words leave my lips, the bar falls silent. Patrons turn their heads, their eyes narrowing as they scrutinize me. The bartender's expression shifts, his brow furrowing slightly.

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Advance chapters in my P@|r$0n/Najicablitz