
Zachtronics has closed its doors, but the legacy of its creator lives on with a new studio called Coincidence.
New Direction
Zach Barth has unveiled “Kaizen: A Factory Story.” This game will allow players to run a factory in Japan during the 1980s, focusing on the production of consumer goods like toys and electronics. Barth’s aim is to refine manufacturing processes while introducing players to a pivotal era of Japanese history.
“We’re developing a game in an area we’ve long been fascinated by, rooted in the culture of craftsmanship that emerged during Japan’s economic growth in the 80s.”
A Unique Experience
The game promises a shift in gameplay style, as players can manipulate each production attempt, correcting mistakes in real-time. Barth mentions:
“You’ll be able to rewind, adjust your machine’s setup, and try again if things go wrong.”
Cultural Context
The narrative hints at the media’s portrayal of Japan during this economic boom, showcasing a Japanese-American character working in a Japanese firm:
“We provide subtle nods to the perceptions of the time, including the panic in the US regarding Japan’s economic dominance.”
More to Look Forward To
While there’s no specific release date yet, intrigued gamers can already find “Kaizen: A Factory Story” listed on Steam.