novelraw Chapter 167 : Concept Is a Big Deal (2)
Chapter 167 : Concept Is a Big Deal (2)
Concept Is a Big Deal (2)
Early afternoon, downtown in a busy district.
Arriving at the meeting place, genome quickly checked the time.
'It's kind of an awkward time to go in first.'
After a moment of hesitation, he decided to kill a bit more time and grabbed his Smart Link.
The website he visited was none other than MetaGamer.
[The 'Perfect' Generation Shift—From Past to Present]
The top headline on the main page was, unsurprisingly, an article about Demon Must Cry.
[Console—a term that now feels almost nostalgic.
Compared to the fun of virtual reality gaming made possible by the advent of capsules, consoles can feel so humble.
Yet, for gamers, it's a time that comes with memories and affection. Back then, several games were considered true 'classics.'
Demon Must Cry, demerc was one such title.]
The start of the article opened with a sentence that stirred up old memories.
Next came scenes featuring Lee Gyeongbok's gameplay, with the bulk of the content praising the newly released title.
[Durante, once made of polygons on a screen, has been revived as a vivid character in virtual reality.
Even that alone felt like ample reward for those, like me, who remember the console era fondly.
But the developers gave us even more.
(The content below contains story spoilers. If you do not wish to know, please skip ahead.)]
[Show/hide spoiler content]
Opening this section presented a short clip—a cutscene showing a conversation between two Durantes.
[In the past, console-version Durante said this:
"No, you've become something greater than I am."
This is not only an important line in the story; it also felt like a message from the developers to me.
"My time ends here."
This is a follow-up line from Durante. The Durante of the past—of consoles—disappears, and now only the present Durante remains.]
Beneath this was another clip, a cutscene following the final boss battle.
[Of the two Durantes who had coexisted, only one remains. With the advent of virtual reality, consoles have faded into history.
But even so, durante says this:
"Devils don't cry."
Console-version Durante sheds tears.
As someone who knows both Durantes, this scene was deeply moving. I'm sure others felt it too.
These tears aren't from sadness or pain, but joy.
He is the reason the present Durante exists and has successfully passed on his role.]
With this, the spoiler section ended. Below that appeared the image of streamer Purple—Lee Gyeongbok.
[Streamer Purple.
You can't leave out his achievements.
If this message had only been conveyed through the story, the impact would have been halved.
Above all, the identity of Demerc is its 'stylishness.'
No matter how much Durante is reborn using virtual reality or cutting-edge technology, if the game couldn't capture that essence, no one would relate to this message.]
The attached video was an action highlight reel from Purple's Q-tube channel.
[Because there was a better Durante—a 'Perfect Durante'—the message rang true for us.
In this broadcast, not only I but also countless viewers described it as the 'perfect' return of Durante.
If someone else had revealed Demerc?
Well, I probably would have reacted like this:
"That's not Durante!"]
Below was an illustration of a man with glasses bursting out of a capsule.
This was an original MetaGamer illustration.
[Fortunately, durante's revival has been a success both in terms of gameplay and business.
According to data released by CAP Company, global pre-orders have already surpassed 3 million.
Undoubtedly, the DLC featuring Purple's voice contributed to this boom.
I'm not the only one starting to believe that 'Purple Coin' is more reality than meme.
A fun game and the perfect player combination.
These are happy days, not as a journalist, but as a gamer.
(Related articles)
〈Devils Wear 'Purple.'〉
〈One Heart Across Borders, the Rise of 'Perfect Durante'!〉
〈Experience the 'Perfect Voice' Live! DLC announcement〉]
Genome finished reading the article and let out a chuckle.
'To sum it up: Purple did what Purple does best.'
When he opened the article's comments, he found many reactions just like his.
[-Wow lol thought this was my story]
[-Reporter might be the role model of boomer Devils fans lol]
[-I almost teared up seeing console-version Durante's costume make a comeback]
[-Honestly, if not Perante, people would be hating lol]
[-Showing Perante's revival and then making a big deal? That'd be total disaster, right?]
[-We are living in the age of Godple!]
[-If you're Korean, please pre-order Demerc!]
Genome stifled a laugh as he read through the comments, then sensed someone's presence and looked up.
"Oh, sorry to keep you waiting!"
Eclipse, whose face could never pass for someone in their twenties, approached with a smile.
"Oh, not at all! I just got here as well. Maybe three minutes ago?"
He sneaked a look at the time. There were still ten minutes to go until the appointment.
"Oh? Everyone's here early?"
At the next voice, both men turned their heads. Lee Gyeongbok was smiling brightly and waving at them.
"I arrived just a bit ago."
"Looks like we all got here about the same time. But is it really okay to have lunch here?"
Eclipse bowed his head, genome smiled back, and pointed with his chin at the restaurant.
They had met up at a fast food joint.
And the one who picked the place was Lee Gyeongbok.
"It's fine. I actually crave stuff like this on cheat day."
"Yeah, I get what you mean."
"Geez, can't even act generous like this."
With Eclipse on board, genome shrugged with a smile. The three settled in after ordering.
Naturally, talk turned to what they'd been up to.
"So when are we doing the Mystic League collab stream? Eclipse, you briefly mentioned it at the last dinner party."
"Oh, last time, I agreed to do it together with V-STAR, and that's when it came up."
"Yes, that's right. If I'm going to challenge myself, it's better to do it with others than alone."
There wasn't much new to discuss about Lee Gyeongbok.
"I've learned a lot watching your videos, Purple. There are things I want to apply in Mystic League too."
"Mystic League?"
"Yes, since Guyen uses a greatsword, it was very helpful."
Eclipse, too.
"Man, I spent a lot of time worrying after watching your videos."
"Worrying? About what?"
"No matter what I do, I don't think I can go for the perfect ending like you did. So I decided on a different concept when the game releases."
"What's your plan?"
"If there's a perfect ending, there should be a worst ending, right? I'll seek out the absolute worst choices on purpose."
Genome was also very familiar with his broadcast.
"Oh, now I feel bad for some reason."
"For what?"
"What's wrong?"
When the two looked puzzled, Lee Gyeongbok laughed awkwardly.
"No, I just feel like I haven't taken much interest compared to you..."
"Oh, come on, no reason to feel bad at all. Right, Eclipse?"
"Yes, of course."
The two waved it off instantly.
"Thinking like that just makes things awkward. If you feel like you have to monitor each other's streams out of obligation, the relationship won't last."
"I agree. I watch Purple's stream just because I want to—my own isn't something I expect you to watch."
Hearing this heartfelt reply, Lee Gyeongbok nodded.
After eating for a while, he brought up another topic.
"Hey, do either of you know anyone in translation or interpreting?"
"Translation?"
"Um, so..."
Lee Gyeongbok explained his situation.
To produce Q-tube membership-exclusive videos, he needed English and Japanese translation.
Park Juho said he'd look into it, but it felt wrong to put the whole burden on him.
"Hmm, I don't really know anyone either. How about you, Eclipse?"
"No, not me."
None of the three really needed translation before—it was Lee Gyeongbok's first time.
Genome rolled his eyes, then spoke again.
"If you want, I could ask my MCN, but tsk, honestly, I'd leave it as a last resort—I bet they'd just use this as an excuse to target you."
"Then it's fine. I just asked in case it'd help my manager friend out."
At that, genome relaxed and nodded.
"But don't just hire based on translation skills alone."
"Why not?"
"Because, phrasing matters even in Korean, and when you edit, sense is important. With foreign languages, it's even more so. Ideally, you want someone familiar with personal broadcasts."
"Yeah, that's true."
"Or you could try looking among your subscribers."
Eclipse offered, cautiously. With everyone's attention on him, he continued.
"Subscribers are familiar with Purple's memes and know the tone. My editor was also a subscriber."
"Oh, that's a good idea."
Lee Gyeongbok nodded.
Back during the last Escapers event, he'd noticed there were some real sharp minds among his subscribers.
"Thank you for the advice. I'll let my friend know."
They finished their meal while chatting. But the real discussion was about to start.
"Well, I said we should have a meeting, but honestly, the basic outline is already set."
Genome broached the topic of Mystic League. Smiling, he looked at Lee Gyeongbok.
"You call the commands, we follow, and we win. Simple, right?"
"If it's Purple giving the commands, there's no reason to disagree. We should be able to adapt to 5v5 games easily."
Eclipse also nodded with a smile.
"I'm confident as a shotcaller."
Lee Gyeongbok agreed.
Genome picked up a stray French fry crumb and asked,
"Any word from NewtonLord?"
Since they'd teamed up before, her joining again would get a great response. But only Lee Gyeongbok was in contact with her.
"Oh, I asked her this morning, actually."
He'd been thinking the same thing.
'She said she couldn't make it because of a variety shoot outdoors.'
This time, she had a clashing schedule. But he couldn't explain the details to the others.
"She's busy with work."
"Is that so? That sucks..."
"Nothing to be done."
"It wasn't that she didn't want to. Just couldn't make it."
Genome nodded.
"Man... when you see NewtonLord's aim, she's perfect for ADC."
"There'll be another opportunity. By the way, how are you picking your champion? I think I'll stick with Guyen..."
Eclipse stealthily gauged Lee Gyeongbok.
He was willing to switch if Lee wanted another champion, but still hoped he could play what he was best with.
"Oh, you both just play whoever you want."
Almost too quickly, Lee Gyeongbok replied, putting their minds at ease.
"Yes! Is this the confidence of Perfect Yami? Then I'll pick flexibly based on the team composition."
"With Perfect Yami, anything is possible."
But their smiles quickly turned to surprise.
"Wait, I'm not going to play Yami this time."
"... What?"
"You're not playing Yami?"
Their eyes went wide, changing to curiosity.
There was no way Lee Gyeongbok wouldn't have prepared something else.
"This time, I'm thinking of approaching it this way."
As expected, he explained a new champion he'd be playing.
When he finished, both their faces lit up.
"Wow, are you a genius? That's a fantastic plan!"
"That is a really fun combination."
It was the right choice for both gameplay and streaming.
* * *
That evening.
Genome's streaming time approached.
― Branch Manager! Open the door quick!
― Lol, keeping to the start time like an absolute boss
― Don't you see the people waiting in line?!
― OMG, so many people!
-20,000 in the queue? Is this really the same stream as usual?
― This guy really knows how to seize the moment lol
― Even Eclipse's collab stream barely hit 10,000
Genome was already a well-known streamer, but breaking 10,000 solo viewers was rare.
Lately, collab streams with Eclipse had drawn over 10,000 on average.
But once the Purple collab was announced, the number doubled overnight.
The reason was clear.
― I don't even know Mystic League but I'm here for Godple!
― How do you watch if you don't know the game?
― Well, can't cure Purple withdrawal except here
― Lol, there's just no substitute!
― Perante brings style no matter what
― You'd know if you've watched the Purple channel
― I still miss those days T_T
Even viewers who only played package games joined the crowd.
― If I donate here, does Godple get some of it too?
― Look at the boomer Devil fans instantly thinking of donations, lol
― How would I know?
― I guess they'll split it?
― Lol, can you please make it possible to donate even when he's on break!
― But this isn't even a break, is it? lol
― Is there a smurf who's on break and collab at the same time?
― Black Company style: weekend work with no clock-in
― This is what you call a Black Company break?
― But why is the boss doing this job? lol
With the 'break' notification on Purple's channel, viewers weren't being split, and the audience only grew.
When the scheduled broadcast time arrived—
"Trha! The man who talks at the genetic level, genome here!"
Genome greeted the crowd with his usual introductory remark.
― Look at Genome switching his intro because Godple's on lol
― Where's the rat who swaps out at the genetic level?
― Traichoip! Traichoip! Traichoip!
― Just hurry and bring in Godple and Eclipse already
― Need my Genome withdrawal fixed
The chat teased him immediately, but Genome was unfazed.
"All right, it's time for PerG-Day, returning after a long while! Please, come on out!"
"Trha! Nice to meet you!"
"I'll give it my all today!"
Not dragging it out like usual, he brought Lee Gyeongbok and Eclipse on stage right away.
― Huh?
― So soon?
― What's up? Is Genome finally being efficient?
― No more stalling?
― Is your rice cooker broken or something?
Viewers filled the chat with question marks at the change, but Genome confidently smiled.
"What, I did just as you wanted, so why the hook? Is there a problem?"
He had only one reason for moving things along quickly.
'No need to wait for viewers to show up.'
Before, he would stall to boost viewer numbers, but now he didn't have to.
With Lee Gyeongbok joining, the viewers 'already' showed up before showtime.
― Lol, you're fired up because Godple's here
― Is this that using someone else's fame thing?
― I like seeing you so assertive, so I re-subscribed
― And then canceling subscription right away, lol
― Why hasn't Tri added a mute button just for smurf?
Just as playfully as usual, viewers objected to his behavior. Genome clapped to get their attention.
"All right, since these esteemed guests made time, that's enough chit-chat! Eclipse, could you please explain today's stream?"
He naturally passed the mic to Eclipse.
"As of yesterday, we've decided to graduate from 3:3 lane matches. Since Sir Purple is joining, we'll try 5:5."
"But Eclipse hasn't played 5:5 yet. So first, we'll start with a regular game for practice. If that goes well, we'll hop on the zero-to-hero bus and go straight into triple queue!"
Genome quickly chimed in, ramping up the broadcast's energy.
― What, going right to ranked games?
― Q-tube highlight incoming!
― Lol, with Godple driving, victory's guaranteed
― Korean Herbalist Association: We approve
― Why would the Herbalist Association care, lol?
― That's the true 'Perfect-One-Shot'!
― But that 'one shot' isn't even medicine, lol
― That's why spacing matters, kids!
The chat's vibe soared with Genome's pace and volume.
"I've said it many times, but games should be challenging to be fun, right? There's more excitement when there's something at stake."
In the meantime, Lee Gyeongbok stepped forward.
"After one practice match, I'll take charge and help Eclipse experience the excitement of ranked games."
With his confident declaration, the chat filled with laughter.
― Challenging ranked with a complete beginner in 5:5?!
― Mmm, such fresh Purple confidence
― Getting a solid fix of Purple withdrawal
― Godple's Perfect-Carry declaration!
― Pre-spoiling the show!
― Can't NOT have fun riding the zero-to-hero bus, right?
With that, the broadcast overview ended. Genome clapped dramatically and raised his voice.
"Great! No time to hesitate—let's get on the bus!"
The game began, their setting shifting to the Mystic League lobby.
"Let's queue up! Viva PerG-Day!"
Just as explained, the 5:5 standard game matchmaking started, and viewers buzzed with excitement.
― Purge! Purge! Purge!
― What's the PerG-Day value?
― Press X to pay JOY to the enemy team
― Are people just gonna dodge out of this game? Lol
― But it's just a normal game—they'll play
― Yeah, it's not every day you get to game with PerG-Day
Matchmaking took only a moment.
The other two players on their team reacted directly.
[〉Huh?]
[〉Whoa? Is it really you guys?]
[〉On the same team as Genome and Godple?]
[〉Are you streaming right now?]
[〉Just give commands! I'll follow anything!]
[〉Me too! I'll do whatever you say!]
Having figured out the situation, the two quickly pledged obedience.
Viewers were delighted.
― This is the general game lobby? What have I been looking at all this time...?
― Yeah, where's the 'top laner syndrome'?
― Just not having trolls is already a win
― Incredible—they only attach 'sir' to Godple's name, lol
― A+ for situational awareness!
― Why doesn't anyone recognize Eclipse?
― Honestly, Eclipse is basically unknown in Mystic League, lol
― That too, matjji
― This one's going straight into my replay archive
Genome stealthily checked Eclipse's reaction—wondering if he'd feel bad about the lack of recognition.
"Sir Purple, then I'll just..."
"Oh, yes, yes. If you're comfortable, just do as planned."
Not bothered at all, Eclipse immediately chose his champion, even looking happy.
"What positions do you two play?"
Lee Gyeongbok asked the others in voice chat.
[〉Ah, we usually play bottom lane.]
[〉I'm support, and this guy's ADC.]
[〉But with orders, we can change lanes!]
[〉You don't have to keep us together, haha]
The replies revealed the situation instantly.
― Oh, it's a 3-person and a 2-person queue together, lol
― That actually makes things easier
― Yeah, it's tough to sync up with two total strangers
― Real friends—look how quickly they ditch each other
― The casual 'it's fine if you split us up' is the highlight
-??? Did you really believe? Friend kick!
Lee Gyeongbok glanced at Genome, who nodded.
"No need to split up a working pair. I'll go mid."
"Great, I'll jungle—everyone, pick your champions."
Genome selected 'Distorted Destiny,' or 'DD' for short, the champ he previously faced off against Lee Gyeongbok with.
The other two picked their own, and all eyes turned to Lee Gyeongbok.
― If he picks Perfect Yami, the game's already over, lol
― Lol, k-Hokage ON!
― Ready for a taste of ancient ninja arts!?
― Full-attack backdoor was an all-time legend
Everyone expected Yami from old memories.
But when he selected his champ, it wasn't the black gi costume.
-?
― Barzan II?
― The heir apparent, here?
A golden suit of armor, a massive spear taller than him, and a gigantic flag on his back.
It was the 'Heir Apparent' Barzan II costume.
For a moment, the chat filled with question marks—then burst into 'lol.'
― Lol, nailed the concept
― Teamed up with Eclipse?
― Help, I'm a baby Devil! Please explain!
― Sir, you can't do that!
― That's some serious straight-face lol
― FYI, in the story, barzan II is Guyen's lord
― Noted!
― King and knight? Can't resist, lol
Since this stream was about Eclipse adapting, Lee Gyeongbok's champ was prepped just for that.
"Glory to the rightful king! Death to the false lord!"
Right on cue, Eclipse drew his sword and shouted—a line from the 'NPC' Guyen's voice, when voice chat is disabled.
― Now that's a knight!
― Wow, why does he fit so well?
― Only chivalry! Only justice! Only coolness!
― If Eclipse only picks Guyen, that alone is impressive, lol
That one remark set the mood on fire. Soon, the opposing team finalized their picks too.
The countdown started.
― Perzan! Perzan! Perzan!
― Conquer ranked, let's go!
― Romantic to have king and knight, right?
― Then what's Genome's role?
― Lol, isn't it obvious? He's Pangmeo
― A clown doing card tricks, lol
― Called it—already guaranteed fun
― Now that's a PerG-Day stream, lol
Lee Gyeongbok grinned mischievously at the cheers.
"Our Deputy Eclipse really brings the energy today."
The sudden title filled the chat with more question marks.
But Lee Gyeongbok kept spinning the spear playfully, even though it was taller than he was.
"Now, let's put up some real numbers today!"
Viewers quickly put it together.
― Wow, is this his Black Company boss concept?
― Planning to totally dominate today, huh?
― Standard for Black Company: the CEO is the king
― The king is literally the boss, lol
It was clear Lee Gyeongbok chose to run with the 'Black Company' meme attached to him for this collab.
― Godple brings capitalism to Mystic League!
― Too frightening!
― If Eclipse is deputy, what does that make Genome?
― At least give the host a manager title
Viewers then turned to Genome for an answer.
"So, assistant Ji, got any thoughts watching Deputy Eclipse in action?"
― Gasp!
― Shortness of breath!
― Wait, he's just a staffer? lol
― So it's a merit-based company?
― If it's based on skill, staffer is right
― At least he's not an intern, lol
Since the concept was decided in advance, genome immediately bowed at the waist.
"I—I'm sorry."
"Sorry? Assistant Ji, why are you making me look like the bad guy?"
"Oh, then I'm not sorry!"
Genome straightened up, and his lips trembled with restrained laughter at his own joke.
Viewers came to a realization.
― Holding in laughter, lol
― Wow, 'not sorry' he says, lol
― Total slacker mentality, lol
― Genome's just a clown by nature, not by concept
― This isn't even a character; it's his true self
― Really wanted to keep their spot, huh? lol
― Even before the game, q-tube highlight incoming
Team PerG-Day—this was a group you could trust for top-tier entertainment.