~Chapter 2:
Bridge to Reality~
The Crossworld City Gaming Expo has been an annual event for avid video gaming fanatics. Once a year, tourists from all across the globe gather to continually embrace similar interests. The beauty when it comes to attending a trade show is the opportunity for gamers to get a brief glimpse of an unfinished video game - one in which includes the accessibility to beta test. In an attempt to garner attraction, a plethora of programmers and voice actors would arrive to promote the upcoming release of their respective video games. From an in person perspective, their eyes wandered with awe and excitement.
"This place is incredible. I knew the place would be packed but just, wow." Spoke a young African-American male sporting a short curly haircut and brown eyes. His facial expression sparkled in awe of the many tourists who have gathered upon anticipation of such an annual event.
"That's how I felt when I was your age Michael," J.B empathized.
"Same, I used to beg my parents to take me here," Ryan followed up with a comment of his own. "They invested some hard earned money in their paycheck to attend these events. When it's all said and done, it's safe to say it was money worth spending."
Meanwhile, Kaitlin took a moment to observe the brochure that displays the locations around the facility; this includes a list of specific events scheduled to take place during the course of the festivity.
"The panel for the new Metal Fighters game is going to start soon. Hall Room H should be down the very end of this narrow hallway to our right," said Kaitlin. Navigating their way through the crowded hall of tourists, they approached another room to find more folks beta testing unreleased video games that exhibited the area.
"Hey can we check out the skydiving simulation? Man I want to get a kick out of it," Michael begged his uncle to get him to do so.
"Michael, last time you spent a long time on a headset you nearly got motion sickness," J.B told him.
"Oh come on J.B, please? I admit I got a little carried away from the experience," Michael defended. "It didn't stop you from testing out other VR games?"
J.B sighed looking of a way to follow up with a response.
"Fine but if you're not feeling right, remove the headset right away." He agreed much to his nephew's delight. "You guys go on ahead. I'll monitor Mike while you two check out some of the other simulations."
Kaitlin monitored the area to spot a green screen display already arranged with a set of golf clubs and a headset. "If you have a chance, we could square off in a game of golf," she said.
J.B responded in laughter. "Thanks but for some reason I could never understand the rules behind it."
"FYI you were the reason why I got into Martial Arts. Now it's time for me to return the favor by providing you with a tutorial," Kaitlin bragged.
"That's great and all but I'm not in the mood. Second its virtual reality not actual golf you play along on the field," J.B stood by his decision.
"Thank you captain obvious," said Kaitlin. She then turned her attention over towards Ryan to determine which game they should simulate in the meantime.
"Speaking of VR Ryan, there's a shooting range both of us could try out," Kaitlin chimed in. "What do you say?"
Ryan gulped but did his best not to display a sign of fear.
"Last time I used up all of my ammo because I tried so hard to get a perfect bulls' eye," he responded.
"I never said it was competition," Kaitlin smiled in contrast to Ryan's frown. "Let's not have video games ruin friendships. How about giving it a go?"
"No hard feelings Kaitlin. I think I'm interested in finding another VR game in my comfort zone," Ryan appreciated the gesture. He took a step back watching on as his friends savored every moment of excitement stimulating their fiber. He felt the need to express the same thrill they were witnessing.
Ryan looked around in search of a video game to simulate. He monitored the area to spot another simulation display arranged with boxing equipment including gloves and a headset. By strapping on the headset, his eyes sparkled with fascination over the game's digitally framed graphics. Formatted in a first person perspective, it's as though he is standing in the center of the ring hearing the roar of the audience echoing throughout the arena.
Utilizing the gloves at his disposal, Ryan swung his arms around exchanging left and right blows to his opponent. While on the defensive side, he put every effort to dodge when necessary. Each round increased in difficulty the more he continued playing. When it came time for round twelve, the match determined all or nothing. There had to be a winner. As the round concluded, the ring announcer announced its final decision in which despite heavy competition, Ryan ended up falling short in the overall bout.
"Well, so much for my game play," he mumbled. Ryan removed his visor for the next person to use.
He soon approached a determined Kaitlin as she makes an attempt to receive the highest accuracy in the shooting range. As the result screen displays, Kaitlin was left unsatisfied of her performance.
"Damn it I was so close," she shouted channeling all the frustration pumping through her veins.
"Well, so much for being a target shooting master." Ryan spoke from behind.
"I never claimed myself to be. Besides I was off by a few targets," Kaitlin defended. "It's only a beta version so there's likely to be bug issues along the way."
As their conversation was in progress, they overheard a PA announcement echoing from the intercoms.
"May I have your attention please? In just a few minutes our panel for Metal Fighters: a Mutant's Escape will take place at Hall Room H. Be sure to have your pass ready and enjoy the adventurous thrill of our most anticipated game yet."
Following the announcement, the gang reunited outside upon heading their way to the site where the event would be scheduled at.
"Oh man I am psyched," Michael said with enthusiasm.
"You had a chance to play the original game?" Ryan wondered curiously.
"Michael and I did a play through on it recently. It was pretty challenging but we managed to beat the game in less than a week," J.B explained.
"Talk about having free time on your hands," said Ryan.
Kaitlin's rebuttal attempt brought the conversation back to their original purpose. "Well what we are waiting for? Let's get a move on."
Putting their chatter aside, they steered their way down to the hall room in which the panel will take place. The crowd marched in anticipation of the upcoming virtual reality game to unfold in public domain.
With a stoic presence, Grimlord stood against the wall allowing space for tourists to navigate their way around. Suspicion looms behind the eyes of the menacing villain.
"Whoa cool cosplay," spoke a local tourist in attendance. Despite the compliment, he walked out of sight leaving no verbal response.
As they arrived on site, a horde of die hard fans from all over the world gathered to witness this monumental presentation.
"Oh cool, look at this place. I've seen panel discussions online but being here in person, talk about being jam packed," Michael said.
"That's the beauty when it comes to these shows. You get to meet and greet all these fans who share a similar interest. Let me tell you it's a thrilling experience," J.B commented.
While in the middle of the chatter, it was that moment in which Ryan experienced a sign of stomach cramps.
"Well it might be a good time to hurry to the rest room. I wouldn't want to miss this panel. Save me a seat will you?" he insisted to his friends. Ryan hurried out of the panel room looking to find a nearby men's restroom. Upon entering, it wasn't long before he encountered a man carrying a pack of index cards in preparation of the event.
"I'm so sorry. I didn't realize for a moment I was in your way," Ryan apologized as the cards were scattered all over the carpet floor. While assisting
the panelist in retrieving his belongings, it was that instant when the expression on Ryan's face sparked a sense of familiarity in the man.
"Sam Strickland? I'm not sure if you recognize me but you responded to a fan mail I sent to you when I was a kid," Ryan said extending his offer of a handshake. "I'm Ryan, Ryan Steele."
"Ryan how are you doing," Strickland acknowledged him. "It feels like yesterday when you and your parents visited the expo. If I'm being honest, you've certainly gotten tall from the last time we crossed paths. It must be a matter of a 'me getting old' phase from our last panel."
Ryan chuckled for a bit while maintaining his level of star struck to a minimum.
"It's an honor meeting you again. I didn't think you would recognize me off the bat. Given how busy your work has been, and how often you interact with your followers on Social Media, truth be told I don't blame you."
"Being a gaming developer requires a lot of time and devotion. But when there's an effective idea that sticks out, our team make the most in crafting that design out to the best of our ability," Strickland said.
"I hear you," Ryan replied handing over the remaining half of the index cards back to Strickland.
"Well, the show is going to start momentarily. I'm going to make sure I have my note cards in order to get my speech across," he said.
"I was just headed my way to use the rest room. One thing I know for sure. When it comes to attending a panel, you sure know you're in for a long but interesting discussion," Ryan assured.
"A long discussion it'll be," Strickland concluded. Needless to say, the panelist thanked him for his assistance.
Eventually, as Ryan returned from the rest room, a crowd of fans gathered in their seats divided into two columns. With his eyes wandering aimlessly, he would eventually regroup with his friends who were located to the left column of the middle row.
"About time you came back," J.B said.
"I had a little setback along the way. Now that's taken care of, all it matters is I'm here," Ryan assured. In the middle of all the chatter echoing in the hall room, a spokesperson got on the microphone, directing everyone's attention to what they had to address.
Ladies and gentlemen to all of you in attendance this afternoon; it's with great honor and privilege to be having all of you gaming fanatics here to kick off this year's show. But before we get started, be sure to remain seated and quiet at all times while our panelist is speaking. If you feel to need to leave to use the restrooms or make a phone call, be sure to exit through the back door where you last entered. Questions will be provided as soon as the panel finishes. If you have one in mind, feel free to assemble in a line and they'll be kindly enough to answer them. With that being said, I want you to please give a round of applause for our panelist at this time. He traveled all this way along with his team of developers at Strickland Gaming Entertainment to provide you with one of the most anticipated games to be released on a home console. Please give it up with my guest, the president and founder of that said company, Sam Strickland!
Following the introduction speech, the audience popped hard for the panelist that arrived in the room. Strickland waved his hand at the capacity crowd that bestowed him with positive response. As the cheering died down, he utilized this time to give them his undivided attention.
"Thank you. I know this place was going to be packed but my goodness," he said. "I hope you're having a wonderful time here this afternoon, and I could not be any more proud than to happily announce the latest entry in the Metal Fighters series."
Once more, the audience cheered with excitement as the first panel of this year's expo went underway. Folks applauded casually as others stood in massive ovation. This overwhelming positive reception sent an emotional wave of chills down his spine.
"Alright everyone let's settle down. I am equally as psyched about this as much as you fans have in quite some time," Strickland continued. "It's been over two years since we started development of this awaited project. We realize that the resurgence in the wave of virtual reality has created a large buzz in the video gaming community. In addition to the large marketing of nostalgia, it was those set of factors that inspired our team to revisit a classic that helped popularized the idea of an open world adventure. For the first time in its illustrious history, this iteration of Metal Fighters will feature a 'Create a Fighter' mode. You'll begin to customize your own avatar that comprises of body type armor, weaponry equipment, and the ability to adjust your stamina attributes. Along the way, you will also earn upgrades by visiting new places and encountering new allies as players make progress through the story.
While the audience continues to applaud in regards to the speech, a sense of vagueness began to stir from Michael's mind.
"Is this dude going to go on forever about this?" Michael asked.
"Listen what he has to say," J.B insisted on behalf of his nephew's behavior.
Strickland directed a staff member to switch off the lights in the crowded room. A projector was turned on to display illustrations taken while during development of the game. Ranging from the designing models to the computer art design displayed in the background, this would be a preview for the development team to keep a record of their progress.
"In this installment, a mutant named Grimlord has been a man without a country since the fall of his empire. His loyal servants have been imprisoned behind the reality barrier that links between two worlds. However, despite his lack of hope, he was not alone. A team of foot soldiers known as Skugs have orchestrated a plot to destroy our heroes' headquarters, and in turn the Metal Fighters themselves. But before they could do that, they made plans to track the coordinates to the Dark Fortress."
In the midst of Strickland's commentary, a person in the audience raised their hand with a question in mind.
"Yes?"
"Why would the Skugs travel to the Dark Fortress knowing they're large of an army enough to destroy the main characters?"
Strickland snickered having caught off guard by the interruption.
"I was just getting to that part actually," he resumed his speech. "Inside the Dark Fortress, there lays a cemetery which is preserved as a resting place for mutants who have served their clan with pride. For the now deceased robots that died while serving their war lord, they hope to resurrect their fallen warriors and aiding them in the war against the main characters of our story, better collectively known as the Metal Fighters."
Another fan stood from their seat to ask yet another question.
"I was looking up in an article, and I swear it's not from some click bait newsfeed. Reading up the premise of the trailer, I read that Grimlord's army had already laid waste to the world. I am really confused whether this takes place right at the beginning or at some point towards the game?"
"Ugh...some of these fans are just cutting him off. Talk about being rude," Kaitlin whispered.
"Yeah no kidding," Ryan agreed.
"With all due respect to the rest of the audience, I would like to remind you not to rudely interrupt the speaker at this time. You're more than welcome to ask questions following the conclusion of this panel," informed a staff member on the microphone.
"I'll let this slide for once. The story takes place during the destruction of our heroes' headquarters. The Fighters have done everything in their power to defend their territory. But the sheer strength of Grimlord and his army have done more than enough harm to leave their enemies' land in shambles."
As if there weren't any more interruptions, Juliet stormed through from the back door while approaching towards Strickland. She whispered to his ear taking the time to listen to what seemed to be a change of game plan.
"Ladies and gentlemen, while we take into our account that this is not a college lecture, we will proceed to showcase our first trailer for the upcoming remake of this wonderful game. As this game is early in development, it is a project that we at Strickland Gaming strive to put on one that will have you gamers coming back for more – or replay value I should say. You've seen the teasers online and on television. But whichever source of media you managed to spot them from, you're finally going to witness history in the making. If we roll the projector screen, may I present to everyone sitting in the crowd the E3 trailer for our latest virtual reality port. Ladies and gentlemen I bring to you, Metal Fighters: A Mutant's Escape. Lights please?"
In front of a jam packed crowd, the audience applauded in anticipation of the trailer projected on the screen. The lights began to dim inside the hall room whereas the fans quietly calmed. The trailer showcased a flash of key important plots reflecting the game's narrative plot with a snippet of cut scenes as well as dialogue behind the characters' motives. Some action scenes were shown with a heavy emphasis on weapon usage. In addition, a number of explosives managed to set off causing a vast majority of buildings to be destroyed. With the intense sound effects, such pounding noise from the loudspeakers echoed throughout the room. A large fraction of the audience gasped watching a brief glimpse of climatic scenes witness in the blink of an eye. As the trailer came to a startling conclusion lurked a scowl upon the wrinkles of Grimlord's intimidating face, sitting on his throne to observe the battle unfold. The crowd applauded while simultaneously giving the presentation a standing ovation.
"Thank you so very much. I am sure when the game is released nationwide you will witness the true capability that virtual reality has to offer." Strickland guaranteed.
"Oh man I can't wait until the game is released. Why can't they just ship it out now?" Michael asked eager to get an opportunity to witness the experience up close.
"Because if they did you'll be complaining about how bugged the mechanics are," J.B argued much to Michael's dismay.
Juliet returned to the hall room once more; only this time, however, Strickland politely handed his microphone for her to make an announcement.
"Ladies and gentlemen thank you all for coming this afternoon. But we still have more than enough time to showcase a live game play demo for Metal Fighters."
Strickland turned his attention towards an unknown display concealed by a large fabric.
"I would like for you all to feast your eyes, and prepare to witness a demo take on the remake of this instant classic." He removed the fabric to unveil the designing of the 9D Egg Cabin VR machine. This 360 degree interactive machine is comprised with enough seating arrangements for more than one player. Each seat contained a 3D surround sound system accompanied by a high resolution immersion helmet required to wear over their heads. They include an Intelligent Handle required to simulate the game play in progress. Below the machine features a spectrum of neon colored led effects to indicate the system's overall functionality.
"Unfortunately, due to limited space, we can only afford at the least three participants. Do we have any takers?"
Fans in attendance raised their hands expressing interest to volunteer. To the likes of Ryan, J.B, Kaitlin, and Michael, they were no exception.
Strickland pandered to the crowd as he took a moment to observe potential candidates. It was matter of time before he came to a final verdict.
"Well it appears we have our three beta testers. Come on up you guys." Strickland directed his attention at the three friends sitting beside one another.
Ryan and Kaitlin stepped forward as they approached towards the VR machine in front of them. Initially, J.B encouraged Michael to participate but refused the offer.
"Are you sure you don't want to participate? How about you head on up there with Ryan and Kaitlin instead?" J.B asked.
"No really-I'm okay. You've owned me in the original game more times I could count," Michael insisted. "It's fine. I can wait until the actual game is released. Go in and kick some virtual ass."
J.B nodded responding to his nephew's content with a smile. They embraced with a hug just shortly before he regrouped with the two volunteers on stage.
"Alright now we have our three beta testers let's get the show on the road." Strickland's final words were spoken as the play through went underway.
The trio positioned onto their chairs leaning their backs underneath the blue lit background of the VR Egg Cabin.
"As we get started, we do have a screen large enough for everyone to witness the game play unfold. We would strongly advise that you remain seated at all times for all folks in the back to see." Juliet notified towards the audience. After leaving the altar, the entire crowd in attendance watched on whereas footage of the simulation began to play on the said screen.
Upon selecting the "new game" option in the main title card, the game segues way into the introduction of the story. Sub titles were added to reflect the dialogue as being heard on the loudspeakers.
Set in a first person viewpoint, the players find themselves inside what appears to be a wreckage of a somewhat burnt down facility. A group of scientists were overheard screaming in horror of what they've witnessed. Others appeared injured leaving scorched bruises stained throughout their bodies. Several remaining bodies, however, were left lying motionless on the ground presumably deceased as a result of such heinous attack.
A group of gold headed foot soldiers marched along from the background. With their demeaning crimson eyes, they searched around looking for any trace of human scent in their surroundings. Each of them featured dark rubber suits with gold capes attached to the back of their shoulders. Another fiery explosive imploded in the laboratory leaving a significant amount of smoke that dispersed in the air.
"No pun intended but holy smokes it's hot in here," said J.B. His avatar is disguised underneath a silver body armor coated with streaks of black and red all around his suit and helmet. The yellow eyes on his visor resembles to that of an android.
"You could say that again." On the contrary, Ryan's avatar is materialized in a blue suit and helmet accompanied with a blend of titanium based armor that is enveloped throughout his body.
"I've seen documentaries on virtual reality. But experiencing this up close is phenomenal," Kaitlin commented. Her avatar comprises a hybrid of red and yellow streaks embodied from her white suit. Kaitlin's helmet would be surrounded by another dash of red edging around the perimeter of her visor. By continuing to monitor the activity, they begin to overhear some static within their helmet.
Listen, there is not much time. The whole place is going to crumble underneath us if we don't act quickly.
Displayed on their visors, they pulled up a map displaying the layout of the entire interior building. Looking to devise an escape plan, a yellow marker highlights the trail they need to be in their attempt to escape.
"Who is this?" Kaitlin asked.
You have to trust me. These never ending Skug soldiers are going to destroy our headquarters, especially with the odds stacked against us. Follow the map radar on your visor screen and it will guide you with an escape route.
By toggling the control of their handles, J.B and Kaitlin followed suit in advancing with the game. A blank stare across Ryan's face leaves him reminded of the event that cost his father's life.
"Ryan," J.B took notice of the expression coming from his friend's face. Meanwhile, Kaitlin waved her hand to attract his attention.
"Oh uh...right," Ryan immediately snapped out of the trance. The trio proceeded to follow the provided coordinates courtesy of their blip radar. As they prepare to make their way out into the debris of narrow corridors, more Skugs arrived to proceed with their objective.
"Well these guys are the last people I want to stumble upon," said J.B.
"If they want a fight, then it's a fight they're going to get," Ryan concluded. In unison, the battle raged on between the players and the army of Skug soldiers. A series of hand to hand combat started off. Each of them put forth the effort they could to defend themselves in the midst of the building's demise.
Unfortunately, with much fortitude as they had to endure, the numbers keeps adding on. With the Skugs pummeling Kaitlin down to the floor, she opened up her inventory menu in search for a particular weapon. Not a single one was featured on the display.
"Kate, hang on!" J.B assured already aware of the danger his girlfriend would endure. However, the foot soldiers continued to overwhelm the players in their attempt to move forward in the scene.
"Red Sheriff, over there - use the laser gun on the desk counter behind you!" The A.I instructed. The Skugs continue to clutch onto the legs of the intended foe. While extending out her arm, Kaitlin utilized all of the weight in her body to reach the weapon displayed on the desk. She would successfully retrieve the laser gun, firing numerous shots at the Skugs swarming around her.
Meanwhile, J.B and Ryan continued in their valiant effort to thwart them off.
"Silver Samurai, there is a twin blade holstered over by the display case. I'm going to key in the combo lock to open it!" Operating the mechanism inside the facility, the A.I provided automatic assistance to the trio on duty. With a push of a button, the case slides opens to unveil the double edged sword.
As J.B fought on, Ryan looked around to find a wooden plank on the ground. As he retrieved the object, he used it to his advantage backing the foot soldiers against the wall.
"I'll hold them off as much as I can. Get a move on!" Ryan exclaimed.
J.B moved forth with the order as instructed, releasing himself from the chain of Skug soldiers. By removing the twin blade from its holster, he proceeded to make use of the weapon thwarting them off one by one.
Elsewhere, the Skugs broke hold from Ryan following a temporary distraction. They went in on the offense as he embraced himself in these odds on battle.
"Blue Hawk, I've assembled the equipment necessary for you to utilize the Laser Saber. Just go to your inventory box and equip the item displayed on the icon," the scientist informed him.
Ryan made use of this opportunity in using the aforementioned weapon added to his disposal. With the saber in his grasp, Ryan swung his saber at the Skugs. Sparks of pyrotechnic erupted from their suits displaying significant damage done to the foot soldiers.
"Talk about intense gang warfare," he mumbled. The trio went all in on the numbers' game using their respective signature weapons that has changed the complexion of the bout. With all the Skugs piled like junk, they dissipated from the ground leaving no trace of their presence.
"So far so good guys," said Ryan. As the building continues to tremble, they could only stall for a short period of time.
"Guys the exit is just up ahead," Kaitlin insisted to her teammates. Using the map radar displayed on their visor screen, the trio navigated their way into the fallen debris of the corridors. Piles of rock barricaded a large portion of the trail causing the trio to slow their tracks. As a pier collapsed on them, they immediately clutched onto the object as a precaution to their well being.
"Ugh as if this place isn't already in shambles," J.B bantered. On a count of three, they each ducked underneath the pier leaving Ryan as the remaining person to follow suit. The trio would successfully navigate through the narrow corridor, eventually approaching the emergency exit door barricaded by another pile of rubble.
"Now what do we do?" Ryan wondered. Backed into a corner, the trio remained with little option to spare.
"Why ask questions when we have the weapons in our hands. Stand back," Kaitlin ordered taking out her laser gun she retrieved earlier ago. By blasting the rocks in front of them, a wave of debris scattered throughout. When the dust settled, there remained no trace of objects barricading their way of escape.
"Let's get our rears out of here." Upon Ryan's comment, the trio made their way out through the emergency exit door. As they further distanced themselves from the building, they turned around to witness their headquarters crumble one after the other.
The trio panted in exhaustion. It wasn't the traditional video game in a sense of playing it through a home console. Rather the thrill of the experience that allows players to be in the moment enticed with high crisp physics that leaves them intrigued than ever before.
"Whew just when I thought we were going to mess up on the first try, this play-through is too breathtaking," J.B reacted. Just when they thought they could simmer down, lasers shot fire among the players. An armada of military jets began to invade the area of the remains left behind from the laboratory.
"Metal Fighters, evacuate the territory immediately. I repeat evacuate the territory!" Originating from the audio speaker inside their helmets, the trio overheard an unknown spectator communicating with the team.
"Where exactly is this person contacting us from?" Kaitlin wondered.
"We better get moving, and I mean fast," said Ryan. With less time for bantering, the players hurried out of the danger zone in which they have now been targeted. Sparks of pyrotechnics ignite from the firing missiles triggered among them.
"Is there a nearby vehicle we can ride on? At this rate, running could only do so much with these jets above us," J.B shouted. Even with their respective weapons, it would take more than their limited inventory to counteract the fighter jets in pursuit.
"I've managed to pin point the coordinates of your location. There is a military vehicle that is stored inside of the garage. One of you will place your hand on the detection pad. The shed should automatically open from there."
Upon acknowledging the command, Ryan followed. "Let's give it a go."
Using the hand cursor from his controlling handle, he pressed his hand onto the pad allowing access inside the garage that contains a Humvee in store. As soon as they hopped on, the motoring sound of the key ignition began to operate. Sitting behind the wheel, Ryan drove off from the garage and onto the road that lies ahead. With an additional army of fighter jets threatening to destroy our heroes, it would require more than simply evading their enemies.
J.B climbed up to the back of the Humvee locking aim on a machine consisting ammo rounds of laser missiles.
"Ryan, keep on driving. I've got these bad boys right where we want them," he assured. In retaliation, J.B fires back destroying each jet that attacked them. As more approached, an additional army of Skugs arrived on the scene riding on their motorbikes.
"Great this is just what we need. More enemies," Kaitlin said. With her laser gun equipped, she took aim before successfully pulling the trigger. Shots blasted on the tire wheels causing a pair of Skugs to fall off from their bikes. Some foot soldiers were even shot directly by the blast that fired at them.
"Try and keep the wheels straight. I don't know how long we're going to keep this up," J.B warned to Ryan.
With a lack of response, Ryan continued to operate the Humvee with every obstacle in their path. From bumpy to winding roads along the empty freeway, the players managed to progress this far in the scene. It seemed the tide has turned in their favor. What all seemed well would be a tipping point waiting to happen; that tipping point that leaves our heroes on a gradual downturn.
"Ryan, look out!" Kaitlin cried the instant they encountered a broken bridge up ahead.
"Holy..." The shout of fear coming from Ryan's mouth manifested from the intensity of the scene that would unfold. Immediately as the vehicle spirals down, the camera zooms in on the ground before fading in to black.
We cut to a following sequence with an echo of chattering in the background. The players find themselves inside a prison cell of a gloomy dungeon.
"Is everyone alright?" J.B asked.
"Whew, as far as I'm concern video games are some serious business," Ryan said in regards to his friend's comment. As the trio observed their surroundings, they overheard some brief static echoing from their helmet.
"Fighters, do you read me?" Following some minor technical error, the spectator reconnected its communication towards the players.
"Thank goodness you are alright. Communication had been cut off with all those fighter jets in your way. While I've pinpointed the map of your location, I'm unable to detect any trace of your presence. However, there is a feature in your helmet that will allow you to use your visor in brightening this darkened facility. Shout out the phrase 'VR scanner activate' and lord and behold."
"One thing is for sure. At least it gives us a clue to how we got here," said Kaitlin. On cue the trio signaled their command allowing the activation of their head beams that penetrated from their visors.
In an attempt to release them from the cell, Ryan grabbed hold onto the caged door utilizing the hand icon displayed on the screen. Despite given the option, the door failed to budge.
"Well what do you know? Not even metal armor could get us out of this imprisonment," he said.
The gang pondered in hopes of a way to free them out of the cell.
"Kaitlin see if you could use your laser pistol to release the lock," J.B suggested to her.
While observing her inventory, she took out her weapon holding aim on the door lock. Pulling the trigger once more, the impact of the laser left an eruption of sparks that destroyed the binding chains from the cell door.
"Easy pee zee. I'm surprised there isn't anyone guarding this place," Kaitlin pointed out.
"Wouldn't that be a good thing?" Ryan questioned.
"Let's keep a move on. Whether or not how tight security there is, we're going to have to stay close," J.B said insisting not to argue further on the matter.
The trio progressed along the passageway unknowingly familiar with the interior layout. In the midst of their navigation, they would soon encounter some Skugs scouting the area.
"Guys hold on." Ryan pulled his friends away from the intersecting hallway. Preventing to be seen, the Skugs would be the least of their worries. A robot with its head that resembled the shape of a rocket ship confronted the gold headed foot soldiers.
"Skugs, have you located the cemetery? This place almost seems like a maze that has us back at square one." Better known as General Ivar, the incense tone in his voice motivated his soldiers to carry out their assignment.
In response to their general's comment, the Skugs shook their head. They even displayed him a map in an effort to track down their designated location.
"Err you know how to read a map. Decimator's body has to be here somewhere. Keep looking," Ivar scolded. As their mere presence faded from the background, the trio regrouped to figure out a way to progress through the story.
"This is going to be a pain trying to evade these guys," Kaitlin said.
"Like I said, we're going to have to stay close," J.B reiterated. They resumed the game afterward looking to explore around the ill lit fortress. Approaching the remains of an abandoned control center, more Skugs surveyed the area divided up to guard the upper and bottom floors. Some guarded the different sectors of the entrance areas. Due to the overwhelming fleet of soldiers, to overcome such a feat would require the players' emphasis on stealth and evasion.
"Ryan, you take the one on the left. Kaitlin and I are going to take out these Skugs on our right," said J.B. They followed upon command sneaking behind the soldiers. Wrapping their arms around their necks, it was a matter of a second before a simple snap would render them unconscious. They continued to navigate their way through the room thwarting off any potential shenanigan that would expose their presence.
During the middle of the demo, Grimlord monitored the play through from a secluded room inside the convention. A number of monitor screens were displayed up close like a set of surveillance cameras closing in on one another. Each consisted of a sequence of events taking place involving the players and his army of robots surveying the fortress. Not a single word uttered from his mouth. The stern expression from his eyes became apparent while observing the fight scenes in progress.
Cutting right back into the game, the trio would encounter a light up ahead. Smokes engulfed from the designated area leaving chills sent shivering down their spine.
"Whew, that didn't take long," Kaitlin said. They navigated through the winding hallways while observing the many intersecting corridors to avoid enemy detection. Ryan along with Kaitlin and J.B stopped their tracks upon standing in front of an enclosed gate.
"Be careful, who knows what kind of shenanigans will pop out from there," J.B said with the intention of warning his mates.
"It's alright. I can go in first and check if the coast is clear," Ryan said. As his friends watched on, he opened the gate partway letting out a creek that echoed throughout. Passing through the gate, he would arrive outside before stumbling across a number of gravesites scattered throughout the confines of the cemetery. Black fences surrounded the perimeter of an almost open field.
Ryan signaled his teammates giving them the thumbs up for the go ahead. Standing foot within the grave sites, a sense of tranquility echoed their surroundings. They surveyed the area to ensure of potential suspicious activity that may be conducted nearby.
"To think all the many loved ones who lost their lives while serving their faction. This war really took a lot out of everyone," he observed. Devastated by the number of graves and flowers bestowed on each tombstone, such a heinous act by Grimlord and his army has left an impact on the population - an impact that has not only cost the lives of innocent people but with the subsequent destruction of mother nature's beauty that came with it.
"Let's keep checking around. Whoever left that gate open first, I have a feeling there's more going on than we realize," J.B commanded. Individually, the trio wandered around the different sectors of the cemetery. Kaitlin would stumble across a large gravestone up ahead. A patch of dirt piled in front of the stone leaving behind a surplus of shovels lying all over it. A king sized white coffin resembling a Japanese styled architecture laid adjacently in front of the stone, engraved using Decimator's name in the country's handwritten language.
"Guys, something is not right," Kaitlin told them.
An awkward silence of what was once a place in which folks congregated to pay their respects to a loved one. Cobwebs were displayed everywhere from the walls making up the perimeter. The ringing of drum bells echoed the seemingly spacious facility they just entered. Up ahead contained a king sized statue of two Skug soldiers doing battle with one another.
"What on Earth happened here?" Ryan chimed in to observe the only coffin remaining in sight. He placed the firm of his hand onto the coffin carefully opening the lid. Inside a spark of dynamite flared up from the wires of a detonating device already ignited.
"Get back!" He exclaimed. Ryan and Kaitlin hurried away from the coffin, leaping over the grave stones in an attempt for cover. J.B followed suit as the coffin instantly bursts out from behind. The sounding cracks of charcoal were overheard by the outskirts. Gulf of flames spread throughout what remained of the coffin allowing smoke to ascend above the crimson sky.
Hiding behind the tombstones, the trio took a glance to observe the explosion as it happened.
"Talk about some kind of practical joke. What in the world was that about?" Kaitlin wondered. The instant her words sputtered out loud, they overheard a sudden swoosh looming from the players' presence. As they paused to wonder about the superstition, it was a matter of time before this anonymous figure made his presence known. With a double edged sword equipped in his hand, a formidable robot clad in white armor with a red cape attached to his shoulders stood across from the players.
"It appears I detected some intruders trespassing from my turf. How irrational of you buffoons to walk out here to disrespect the dead," he said.
"I don't know who you are to accuse us of breaking and entering. But you don't realize who the hell you are messing with," Ryan replied looking to build steam beneath the foe's inner skin.
"It's a big mistake to sound cocky especially in front of a veteran swordsman. Now it's time for me to extinguish them like the fire that you see behind me," he said. "But before we proceed, it seems we haven't formally introduced ourselves. As a warrior hungry for battle, most folks have referred to me as Decimator. I have fought the best and I have beaten the best. Let's begin shall we?"
The swordsman positioned the staff of his sword directly away from his body.
"This guy isn't rambling nonsense," Ryan said. On cue the trio glossed over to their inventory menu with their respective signature weapons intact.
"Humph it's just as I expected. Even with the odds stacked against me, you fools don't realize who you are dealing with." Decimator cackled.
"We'll see about that," J.B spoke confidently. Rather than bantering, the battle would soon begin to get underway. J.B pulled off the first move using his lance as anti-thesis to Decimator's sword. Their weapons clashed back and forth letting out a clinging sound that echoes throughout the area. As seemingly on par as both combatants turned out, the tides soon turned in Decimator's favor. By knocking the lance off from his opponent's grasp, the wielding swordsman swung his sword over towards his opponent. Sparks erupted from his suit dealing significant enough damage as J.B's avatar fell to the ground.
"Not even your weapon is on par with my signature blade," Decimator taunted. Kaitlin stepped forward using her laser gun to fire away the shots blasted towards the intended foe. Utilizing his sword expertise, Decimator deflected each attempted blast that had been made. This intimidating pose leaves Kaitlin intimidated by the enemy's ferocity. With another swing, he sent her avatar flying towards a gravestone.
As his friends took a moment to recuperate on the sidelines, Ryan looks to avenge them by taking matters into his own hands. Equipped with his saber, the two fought head on in determining a battle of superiority. Neither combatant was willing to back down. While lacking the higher stats when compared to Decimator, it was a matter of fortitude that has kept Ryan motivated. For as much determination displayed, Ryan could not keep up with the agility based off of his opponent's A.I.
After a full recovery, J.B and Kaitlin resumed battle looking to aid their fallen friend. They charged head on using physical combat to thwart off the swordsman. Despite their will to succeed, the immense strength displayed by Decimator exceeded far ahead from his opponents. Ryan capitalized but as the saying went - the song remains the same.
"You've disappointed me Fighter. I was looking forward to some serious competition," Decimator bantered. Placing his sword back into his holster, it wasn't long before he had another game plan in mind.
"No matter what weapons you use, sad fact of the matter is they are not up to par with mine," he said. "We will duel in the traditional hand by hand combat. I'll be flattered than to take on not one but all three of you standing before me."
The trio switched out their inventory once more. This time, however, would require no specific objects being of use. The icon immediately switched from their respective weaponry into the symbol of two hands as shown on the screen.
"Why do I have a bad feeling about all of this?" Kaitlin asked.
"Follow along with the narrative if you're playing a quick time event," J.B said. In unison, they positioned into their fighting poses as they score off against the first boss of the game.
Ryan and Kaitlin made attempts to thwart off their foe using traditional hand to hand combat. Kaitlin pulled off an exchange of left and right jabs to the head of her opponent. With every offense, Decimator dodged each one that swung by. Ryan chimed in on the action leaping with a front kick to the warrior's stomach. He struck with some shin kicks to the leg finishing off the combo with a leaping knee to the chin. As Decimator continued to endure these blows, J.B followed up with an exchanging left and right shin kicks that culminated with a tornado kick to the swordsman's chest.
"Not bad but let me show you how it's done."
Transitioning from defense to offense, Decimator retaliated using a variety of thrust chops to the chest of Kaitlin's avatar.
"Kaitlin," J.B cried out. Avenging a fallen comrade, he pulled out all the stops towards the samurai. Each technique he executed no matter the agility, this would not weakened Decimator's performance. He would immediately reverse J.B's spin kick with a similar kick of his own.
The swiftness in part of Decimator's experience in combat outshined his enemies' every movement. It was there that the avatars of Ryan, J.B, and Kaitlin were sent flying back first against the wall in struggling to overcome this feat.
"You don't realize the warrior who stands tall around here. As Grimlord's loyal servant, I am sworn to protect this very dungeon against intruders that dare threaten this very world he created for all mutants like us to thrive in." Decimator continued to intimidate his oppose ones.
"For a swordsman that's OP this early in the demo, he's one hell of a boss for sure," said Ryan. The sheer drama escalated in a situation that places the advantage right in the villains' favor. Beneath his visor lurks a stern expression; a chance to avenge his friends right then and there. Eventually, he rose to the occasion standing toe to toe against the swordsman.
"Humph not even my fists proved even the slightest of a challenge. Just admit defeat and I won't have to punish you more," Decimator insisted.
"I've had enough with your games. You're going to pay for what you did!" Summoning his saber once again, Ryan charged head on. Upon ambush Decimator retaliated as he pulled out his sword in self defense. Their respective weapons clashed back and forth pulling out all the stops to maintain equal advantage. The burning ambition from Ryan's eyes indicates a lack of intention of backing down from this fight. While admiring the courage bestowed upon Ryan, Decimator proved he was one step ahead of him.
The swordsman knocked the said weapon from the grasp of his opponent. He swept the floor out of Ryan's leg tripping him in the process. Back first on the ground, Ryan held out his arms.
"It's safe to say I've demonstrated my point as of now. It is time for me to put an end to you." Those words ignited the spark within Ryan's will to succeed. A clash of exchanging sword strikes ensues amongst the two combatants. It seemed apparent neither would hold back in their encounter towards one another. With the slash of his saber, a scorch of purple blood oozed out from the right cheek of Decimator's face.
"You imbecile, as an experienced swordsman, how dare you try and mock me like that," Decimator cursed.
"Way to go Ryan," said Kaitlin. Along with J.B, they regrouped with their teammate upon witnessing the swordsman's vulnerability.
"It seems like his health bar is doing sufficient damage. Let's take advantage of this and finish him off," said Ryan equipping the laser blaster from his inventory.
J.B and Kaitlin proceeded with the procedure pulling out laser blasters of their own. Decimator continued to clutch onto his chest while recovering from the blows he sustained.
In unison the players positioned their respective weapons. As Ryan shouted the cue to fire, the trio fired their laser guns sending sparks that erupted from the samurai's torso.
Subsequently, despite the damage he sustained, Decimator barely withstood the laser shots fired towards him.
"Wait, that didn't faze him?" J.B said shock and awe of what they've witnessed.
"You're going to need more than those lasers to destroy me. It's not the weapon that makes me stronger. It's the owner wheeling the weapon that is, and I guarantee you have a lot to learn before you're up to my league." Decimator bent over to the ground to pick up his trademark sword. With the battle in progress, the rest of Grimlord's leading faction marched through the cemetery gate. Skugs surveyed the area as did a horde of cyber kinetic robots intimidating their intended prey.
The avatars of Ryan, J.B, and Kaitlin fought off the foot soldiers surrounding them. With every ounce of fortitude they had, it would not be enough.
One after another each robot continued to take charge at the players. No matter the desire and inability to surrender, the players struggled to withstand the sheer army that looms in their path. Once more the status quo was restored, and the remaining meter on their health bars would instantly deplete thereafter. The screens displayed from their visors would fade to black signifying game over for our players...or at least so they thought.
After a long period of unconsciousness, the players find themselves chained around a post inside of a throne room. A red carpet extended from the entrance of the concrete floor to the staircase of the king's chair. They overhear a buzz of cheering from Grimlord's mutant army in celebration over a job well done.
"Where are we?" Kaitlin wondered.
"It's a pleasure to have you fighters here with us." Grimlord chuckled to witness the intruders outnumbered by his faction. "You've may have a lot of nerd to try and sabotage my army. When it's all said and done, where there is a plan A, there is always a plan B. Colonel Icebot, do your stuff."
"Affirmative," the Colonel abided while standing in front of a dashboard panel. With his demeaning red eyes, the figure cloaked in white body armor with streaks of blue vines that resembled a collar-like trench coat proceeded to follow orders. With the push of a button, a television set presented in high definition would descend from the ceiling. A projection of Grimlord's face appeared on the monitor screen looking to address his statement.
"I've got to hand it to you. It takes a lot of guts to bypass the amount of life threatening situations all of you had endured. Let alone the fact this game being tested out as we speak has finally come down to this." Grimlord confessed much to the confusion behind the beta testers involved in the play through.
"Since when did he decide to break the fourth wall?" Ryan wondered.
"When this world was created, I wanted to provide a haven in which these mutant robots could thrive without the need to fight one another for land. The life we've spent living in the Virtual World could only fit so many people in this oversaturated population. I'm sure you recognize the image displayed in front of your very eyes."
The screen cuts to a photo still of Sam Strickland, founder and president of a game developing company responsible for pitching the idea. Beneath their visors, they were stunned to come across the familiar photo that has left a still frame in their minds.
"If he hadn't made the final decision to consider pitching a remake of this timeless classic, none of this would all be possible. Observe and behold." Grimlord cackled. From there the screen would cut to a CGI image of a computer grid that displays an image of two planets collide. "The reality barrier serves as the bridge between virtual reality and the living world as you've grown to be familiar with. Now is the time we bring unity to not only the virtual gaming world we reside in. When we destroy the barrier, we mutants will make that dream a reality and migrate to a place that will alter the course of Mankind forever."
With the grasp of his firm hand, Grimlord raised his crystal orb in the air. A rush of green electricity channeled throughout his body. Emerging from the shadows, Decimator raised his arms holding onto another orb akin to his boss. The combined energy waves intersected from opposite directions that managed to penetrate through the screen.
"In just a moment, the way humans perceive virtual reality will never be the same again. It will no longer be some oxymoron to justify the belief of what's real versus what is fantasy. Feast your eyes and allow the start of our expansion into the Real World, begin!"
As Grimlord gave Colonel Icebot the signal, a surge of electricity intensified sending shockwaves that enveloped the bodies of the trio. They screamed immensely in pain with each jolt the players had to endure.
Back in the convention hall room, lights flickered like a switch going on and off. Television kiosks that have displayed coverage of the game play turned static cutting off the live feed. The audience was left confused over the happenstance surrounding them. On the other hand, Michael grew more concern over the trio's safety including J.B.
In an attempt to cut off the power, Strickland approached towards the VR machine. Despite doing so, the machine failed to make a conscious response. Resorting to drastic measures, he turned his attention to the cord outage. His hand caught bruised as sparks erupted from the cords used to operate the machine. Despite the risk, he successfully removed the cord previously wired from the output.
Strickland hurried over to the beta testers to check on their condition. Slowly Ryan, Kaitlin, and J.B stood up from their chairs coping with some fatigue endured by the headsets' malfunction.
"Is everyone here alright?" He asked. Individually they removed their headsets coming off the heels of unusual superstition that transpired.
"What on Earth just happened back there?" Ryan remarked as he rubbed his forehead. Going into the event, it was a chance for him to spend leisure time with his long time companions; friends who he hadn't interacted with since their time in grade school. Only to soon realize that the dosage of excitement and social gathering would take a turn for the worse.
Having remained secluded in his hideout, Grimlord monitored the scene to witness the four gathering around in awe and uncertainty. The veil of his sadistic grin began to show as his objective went according to plan.
"I've waited for a long time for this to take shape. Now is the time for the robots to stand together for we shall declare war on humanity and take over the world they inhabit in," he cackled hysterically.