Hey there Newgrounds fam! I am proud to present the premiere of my original audio drama, 'The Illusion of Choice!'

This story has been in the making for years now. Back in 2019, a dream I had fueled a concept for a story. I began to flesh out the details, characters, environment, simply building on the original concept.

I eventually brought someone on to help me write the story, but it turned out to be a mistake. Their "help" simply discouraged me from writing. Any idea I came up with was dissected and picked apart, but not in a productive way. My ideas were torn apart and it made me believe my idea as a whole was bad because they would try to implement their own ideas over mine. So, I shelved the project altogether.

Fast forward to 2024, there was an ARG centered around Bob Velseb in my Discord server. We never concluded it due to issues, but I felt it necessary to detail the planned ending to those who followed the story. That in turn, encouraged me put together another quick, and simple, ARG to build upon the original ARG. We finished it within a week or so and I had a blast writing it for the fans.

However, as I reflected on the ARG story, it shared similar components to the story I'm presenting today...I wanted to write again, I was hankering for more. So, with the help of a few writers, we began developing 'The Illusion of Choice.'

As we worked on the story, I was happy with everything. My crew was supportive, we built on suggestions and we encouraged one another to elaborate on themes we never would have considered. All that hard work has led to this first episode, and plenty more after this! I'm very grateful to my writers Rose, Ozzo and Fool for helping me bring this story to life. It truly means a lot that you guys have shown it as much love as I have for it. It wouldn't be here today, created, if it wasn't for you three.

Now, I want all of you to meet Sam Destin, an individual who's constantly down on his luck, the epitome of having a bad day. Except, that's all Sam ever deals with, bad luck and negative energy. He's the unluckiest guy in the world, and you'll find out why. Due to this constant negativity, Sam battles with anger constantly. He is able to manage it though with some help.

In this episode, Sam endures his daily commute to work. As he listens to a local radio show, he finds out that focusing on the road, is typically the best option at all times.

Thank you all for listening to this long awaited audio drama. I'd love to hear your thoughts and opinions about it and what you expect to happen in the series!

Much love Newgrounds <3

- Corey