I don't usually stumble upon anime features that I'd like to share on the blog, but this time I just so happened to find one. We get a quick at the main voice talent behind Iron Man and Wolverine anime that G4 just started airing. We see who takes on the lead roles in each series, get some snippets of the shows, and even learn about a crossover episode!
2 x 2 Shinobuden Anime
Plot Summary:
Shinobu is a naive ninja-in-training. In order to test her ninja abilites, she must steal the panties of all the high school girls. The first house she stops at is the abode of one Kaede Shiranui, who happens to catch Shinobu in the act. Kaeda is the voice of reason and the two girls become quick friends, despite a round yellow ball-thing who claims to be a ninja master and tries to get in the way of their friendship. Anime News Network
Overall rating:
Download
Torrent
2 x 2 Shinobuden [Episode 01-12]
Megaupload
Episode 01 Episode 02 Episode 03 Episode 04 Episode 05 Episode 06
Episode 07 Episode 08 Episode 09 Episode 10 Episode 11 Episode 12
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Durarara!! Ep. 6 - impressions
Could this have been my favorite episode of Durarara!! yet? I really think it might be! This episode had a little bit of everything, and it also came with a nice helping of character development! Couple all that with another excellent round of in-show music and you've got one episode that really speaks highly of the series.
This particular episode started out pretty high-octane, with a lot in-car action barreling down the streets. If you've been following along with the rest of the episodes, you know that seeing a nondescript van on the streets is a reason for concern. That usually means a kidnapping is about to take place, and things only get worse.
Not to spoil too much, but this time around we see another kidnapping victim saved, but it's not our usual youngster. This time we have a very unique, interesting character that's actually an adult. I don't want to ruin anything about this guy, but his loud personality and voice acting really made him stand out. That's hard to do in a show where you have a headless motorcycle rider out to save kidnapped victims!
While all that was great, I think my favorite part of the episode came when we learned more about one of the inner-city gangs, the Dollars. We've been hearing a lot about them, but this particular episode shows how the gang is loosely put together, and how some of its members came to be. Out of all the episodes aired thus far, this one might be the juiciest in terms of details.
Overall, a fantastic episode. If you haven't seen the show and had randomly stumbled upon this episode, I think this would be the one to make you search out what the show as about. I can only hope that this is the jumping point for even more great storytelling, wonderful music and intense action.
Aoi Hana - Sweet Blue Flowers Chapter 40
Group Scanlating: Lililicious
Here's a new chapter of Aoi Hana.. The story focuses more on Kyouko and her fiancee Kou.. Oh man, I didn't expect to see a HET chapter in this manga. I was really looking forward to reading more about Akira & Fumi.
To download previous chapters, click here.
Overall rating:
Download
Aoi Hana - Sweet Blue Flowers Chapter 40
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kimi Koi Limit Chapter 05
Note: Mature Content!
Group Scanlating: PayaPaya Scans
Here's a new chapter of Kimi Koi Limit. I don't get Sono at all. First, she made out with Hiroko. Later, she tried to run to Sato's apartment and officially ended it with Hiroko.
I mean, I like Sato as well but I think Sono is a too insensitive here. I feel sorry for Hiroko.
To download previous chapters, click here.
Overall rating:
Download
Kimi Koi Limit Chapter 05
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Group Scanlating: PayaPaya Scans
Here's a new chapter of Kimi Koi Limit. I don't get Sono at all. First, she made out with Hiroko. Later, she tried to run to Sato's apartment and officially ended it with Hiroko.
I mean, I like Sato as well but I think Sono is a too insensitive here. I feel sorry for Hiroko.
To download previous chapters, click here.
Overall rating:
Download
Kimi Koi Limit Chapter 05
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mare Chapter 06-07
Note: Mature Content! Contains HET scenes
Group Scanlating: PayaPaya Scans
Just a warning, there are no yuri scenes in these chapters, all are HET. What a waste!
To download previous chapters, click here.
Overall rating:
Download
Chapter 06 Chapter 07
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Group Scanlating: PayaPaya Scans
Just a warning, there are no yuri scenes in these chapters, all are HET. What a waste!
To download previous chapters, click here.
Overall rating:
Download
Chapter 06 Chapter 07
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
What's your anime schedule?
We've talked about all sorts of anime aspects, an we have a million more to go. While we've talked about anime and the times we watch, we haven't talked about how much anime we actually take in in a month. As I said earlier, it's hard to find the time to check out the anime you want to, but I'm sure we all manage to make it happen.
In the course of a month, how much anime do you think you watch? I'd like to think that some people have a schedule down pat, and manage to get in a ton of anime as the months roll on. I know a few people that make a point to at least watch a few episodes of a series each week, trying to stay on a schedule that allows them to move onto new series' quite often.
For me, I really wish I could do a schedule. Some months I'm surprised by just how much anime I get to take in. Other times, I'm lucky if I manage to get an hour's worth of anime in the full month. Things just happen and eat up all the time I would have to view anime, and it kills me to go that long without indulging a little bit. I feel like I'm really missing out!
So...in the course of a month, how much anime do you manage to watch? Do you just set a goal one month and try to beat it the next?!
In the course of a month, how much anime do you think you watch? I'd like to think that some people have a schedule down pat, and manage to get in a ton of anime as the months roll on. I know a few people that make a point to at least watch a few episodes of a series each week, trying to stay on a schedule that allows them to move onto new series' quite often.
For me, I really wish I could do a schedule. Some months I'm surprised by just how much anime I get to take in. Other times, I'm lucky if I manage to get an hour's worth of anime in the full month. Things just happen and eat up all the time I would have to view anime, and it kills me to go that long without indulging a little bit. I feel like I'm really missing out!
So...in the course of a month, how much anime do you manage to watch? Do you just set a goal one month and try to beat it the next?!
Sakamoto-san! Ōbāshūtodesu! [Mio x Minna Strike Witches Doujin]
Note: Explicit Content!
Here's a decent "H" Strike Witches doujin I found about Mio & Minna. I love Mio, she's one of my favorite characters in the anime.
Quick Fact: Did you know that Mio (Season 1) was voiced by Saeko Chiba, same seiyu who did Natsuki Kuga of My-HiME and Natsuki Kruger of My-Otome?
That's one reason why I'm in love with her. LOL
Overall rating:
Download
Sakamoto-san! Ōbāshūtodesu! [Mio x Minna Strike Witches Doujin]
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here's a decent "H" Strike Witches doujin I found about Mio & Minna. I love Mio, she's one of my favorite characters in the anime.
Quick Fact: Did you know that Mio (Season 1) was voiced by Saeko Chiba, same seiyu who did Natsuki Kuga of My-HiME and Natsuki Kruger of My-Otome?
That's one reason why I'm in love with her. LOL
Overall rating:
Download
Sakamoto-san! Ōbāshūtodesu! [Mio x Minna Strike Witches Doujin]
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Anime: It's All About Length
I simply do not have the time to watch all the anime that I want to. I actually don't have the time to do a lot of the things I want to do! I know I'm not the only one in that boat. That damn growing up gets in the way of so much fun! It's hard to relax and do what you want when you're worrying about bills and day-to-day chores. You really learn to appreciate that little free time you get!
That means watching anime is a big commitment for me. I know watching anime is going to be a real time sink, but since I enjoy the features so much, I know that it will be time well spent. If I can sit back and relax, smile and enjoy a great story, then there's not going to be any regrets. The only problem comes in with deciding what series I am going to watch.
Sometimes I know that I have less time than usual, which usually leads me to watching an anime movie. I know that that feature will be wrapped up in a couple hours, and I won't have anywhere to go there. It's nice to know you're going to start and finish an entire feature in a whole night! Of course, sometimes your anime cravings require a bit more content though.
I'm open to pretty much any series, but there are a few that are just too long. I love Detective Conan and Lupin the 3rd, but those series' are just so long that I can't willingly dedicate the time or money to checking them out. The same thing goes for Bleach and Naruto. Great shows, but they are just so many episodes deep that it's very hard to jump in.
How do you approach anime series? Is it anything goes, or do you like to keep your viewings short and sweet?
That means watching anime is a big commitment for me. I know watching anime is going to be a real time sink, but since I enjoy the features so much, I know that it will be time well spent. If I can sit back and relax, smile and enjoy a great story, then there's not going to be any regrets. The only problem comes in with deciding what series I am going to watch.
Sometimes I know that I have less time than usual, which usually leads me to watching an anime movie. I know that that feature will be wrapped up in a couple hours, and I won't have anywhere to go there. It's nice to know you're going to start and finish an entire feature in a whole night! Of course, sometimes your anime cravings require a bit more content though.
I'm open to pretty much any series, but there are a few that are just too long. I love Detective Conan and Lupin the 3rd, but those series' are just so long that I can't willingly dedicate the time or money to checking them out. The same thing goes for Bleach and Naruto. Great shows, but they are just so many episodes deep that it's very hard to jump in.
How do you approach anime series? Is it anything goes, or do you like to keep your viewings short and sweet?
Durarara!! on Adult Swim - Episode 6 live chat (stars 12:30 A.M. EDT)
It's that time again, my friends! Episode 6 of Durarara!! is airing tonight at 12:30 A.M. EDT, and I sure hope you come here to join us for it! We'll be live-chatting throughout the show, giving live impressions and just having fun. It's been a great time every week we've hosted the chat thus far, and I think this week will be the same. Looking forward to it, my friends!
Thundercats, Wolverine, Iron Man - Your Impressions!
There were three big shows that I wanted to see tonight, but I didn't get to watch a single one. That's because I was out at a wedding, which ate up a major chunk of time! Obviously it's a bit more important to be at a friend's wedding than to hang home and do as I please, but now I'm behind! Three big premieres that I missed out on. It's almost like someone set out to plan these premieres for when I was busy!
The good news is, I managed to record all three shows. I honestly don't have the time to watch them tonight, but I will definitely check them out over the weekend. I've been really excited for Thundercats, Iron Man and Wolverine for awhile now. I sure hope you guys were excited as well! It's important to support any new anime coming our way. We have to at least give the first few episodes a shot!
Sure, Thundercats may be stretching it a bit when calling it anime, but the original certainly was an anime production. Both Wolverine and Iron Man are hands-down anime fodder, which makes them 100% fair game to discuss. Out of those three shows, I'm hoping that at least one is going to offer up something worthwhile. I'd like to think that the shows received backing in the states because they're worth our time!
I'd love to hear from you guys about these shows. I'm hoping you checked out at least one, and I'm really interested in seeing what you have to say about them. Did any of these shows really tickle your fancy, or did the premieres just fizzle?
The good news is, I managed to record all three shows. I honestly don't have the time to watch them tonight, but I will definitely check them out over the weekend. I've been really excited for Thundercats, Iron Man and Wolverine for awhile now. I sure hope you guys were excited as well! It's important to support any new anime coming our way. We have to at least give the first few episodes a shot!
Sure, Thundercats may be stretching it a bit when calling it anime, but the original certainly was an anime production. Both Wolverine and Iron Man are hands-down anime fodder, which makes them 100% fair game to discuss. Out of those three shows, I'm hoping that at least one is going to offer up something worthwhile. I'd like to think that the shows received backing in the states because they're worth our time!
I'd love to hear from you guys about these shows. I'm hoping you checked out at least one, and I'm really interested in seeing what you have to say about them. Did any of these shows really tickle your fancy, or did the premieres just fizzle?
Sasameki Koto Chapter 51 [RAW]
Special Thanks to SK fan for sharing the link
Yay!! New raw chapter of SK.. This chapter is mostly about Azusa. I think she wants to write a light novel/doujin based on Sumika & Kazama's love story. I'm just guessing though. I'm not quite sure.
To download translated chapters, click here.
Overall rating:
Download
Sasameki Koto Chapter 51 [RAW]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yay!! New raw chapter of SK.. This chapter is mostly about Azusa. I think she wants to write a light novel/doujin based on Sumika & Kazama's love story. I'm just guessing though. I'm not quite sure.
To download translated chapters, click here.
Overall rating:
Download
Sasameki Koto Chapter 51 [RAW]
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Heading out to a wedding. Here's some anime to watch tonight!
Unfortunately I have to be taken away from the site once again, but I will be back later tonight. I'm attending a friend's wedding, but you guys are going to be the ones having the real fun tonight. Here's some anime premieres you'll want to check out!
Thundercats pseudo-anime revival airs tonight on Cartoon Network
G4 airs the premieres of Wolverine and Iron Man tonight
Do me a favor and enjoy those for me, will you?! I'm going to record all of this content to check out later. I honestly cannot wait!
Taboo: Hentai's place in anime
To each his own, that's what I always say. I am in no place to judge anyone for what they do and what they like. So long as what they partake in in life doesn't hurt others, I say more power to them. That line of thinking applies to a lot of areas in life, but obviously we're relating it to the world of anime. More specifically, we're going to dive into the topic of hentai.
Hentai is a big reason why anime in general gets a bad wrap. There are plenty of people that believe all anime is hentai, and that's why they have such a problem with it. Hentai is indeed very graphic in a sexual nature, and it's not meant for younger audiences by any means. Somewhere along the line, people get introduced to hentai and they automatically equate it to anime in general.
That's quite an ignorant way of looking at things, if you ask me. Having this viewpoint would be like watching traditional pornography, and thinking that all TV and film is like that. No one in their right mind would ever make that connection, so why do they believe anime to be like this? I guess some people are just so offended by overtly sexual cartoons that they don't want to take the time to learn just what they're looking at.
Of course, there's the heavy rape overtones in some hentai that take things even further. Again, while I may find this kind of content a bit too heavy and disturbing for my own interests, I know there are others out there that enjoy this sort of fantasy. With this sort of theme running through hentai, it actually gives the entire genre an even worse name. We're looking at a huge cultural divide here, and the overall hentai presentation just doesn't sit right with many people.
How do you feel about hentai? Do you think it gives anime a bad name? Are you okay with it existing, but not partaking? Are you into it at all? No worries, you won't be judged here, no matter what your answer!
Taboo: Do you support bootleg/unauthorized anime localizations?
We're going in a bit of a different direction with this taboo topic, but I think it's a very important one to discuss. For all the anime that hits North America, there's a lot more that never sees official localization here. Sometimes that's just the way the cookie crumbles. I don't like it anymore than you do, but some people decide to take things into their own hands when this happens.
I can understand that bootleg and unauthorized localizations come from a place of anime passion. I understand that we're talking about fans that absolutely, positively want people outside of Japan to enjoy specific anime content. At the very least, I can respect that kind of love of anime. It may sound odd, but I believe a lot of those grassroots projects are coming from a good place.
While those people involved with putting those fan-subs together might mean well, it's the reactions to those projects that causes trouble. There are indeed consequences for both viewing and purchasing bootleg anime. Things get even worse when people fan-sub anime that is already being localized. Sure, you can get a ton of episodes of an anime for a very cheap price and quicker, but you're only stealing money away from someone down the line. Someone that was involved with creating the anime in the first place. Along the way, someone is getting hurt.
Do I think that those that indulge in this type of anime viewing are terrible people? I definitely don't, but I prefer to keep things legal. I really hope I don't come across high and mighty in this post, because that's not what I'm trying to convey. I just like to support official localizations. We're talking about companies that do their best to bring anime here. I just can't justify taking away from their hard work.
I can understand that bootleg and unauthorized localizations come from a place of anime passion. I understand that we're talking about fans that absolutely, positively want people outside of Japan to enjoy specific anime content. At the very least, I can respect that kind of love of anime. It may sound odd, but I believe a lot of those grassroots projects are coming from a good place.
While those people involved with putting those fan-subs together might mean well, it's the reactions to those projects that causes trouble. There are indeed consequences for both viewing and purchasing bootleg anime. Things get even worse when people fan-sub anime that is already being localized. Sure, you can get a ton of episodes of an anime for a very cheap price and quicker, but you're only stealing money away from someone down the line. Someone that was involved with creating the anime in the first place. Along the way, someone is getting hurt.
Do I think that those that indulge in this type of anime viewing are terrible people? I definitely don't, but I prefer to keep things legal. I really hope I don't come across high and mighty in this post, because that's not what I'm trying to convey. I just like to support official localizations. We're talking about companies that do their best to bring anime here. I just can't justify taking away from their hard work.
Taboo: The portrayal of women in anime
There may be one big reason why some females in the states and Europe aren't too into anime, and it has something to do with the portrayal of women. As I've said many times before, things are quite different in Japan than they are in the rest of the world. Some of the ideas put forth by the Japanese people aren't exactly too popular elsewhere. A majority of anime seems to take those ideas and run wild with them, leaving women in the rest of the world feeling a bit uneasy.
First off, there are plenty of anime where women are objectified. Yes, we've all see the strong anime female before, but she's usually running around in next to nothing. Most anime take every chance they get to show a little fan service, and while I can't say that I dislike it, I can definitely see how some women would take offense with it. Showing girls as something to drool over and nothing else isn't exactly the best way to get on a lady's good side.
Then there are the female anime characters that do nothing but cater to a man's every whim. That might be a husband, boyfriend or crush, but they all get treated the same. Some female anime characters go out of their way to be polite to the male characters, never questioning what they have to say. It's all about keeping the man happy and hiding away personal opinions. Again, this doesn't really fall in step with the rest of the world, and I can definitely see why women might be a bit upset with it.
How do you feel about the portrayal of females in anime? There are some features that show us strong, proud female roles, and those are the ones I really dig. When women are used as sex objects or vapid bodies in anime, I can see where the real-world counterparts get a bit ticked off. I'm not against fan service in any way, but anime that uses women for this purpose only is doing nothing but hurting its audience.
First off, there are plenty of anime where women are objectified. Yes, we've all see the strong anime female before, but she's usually running around in next to nothing. Most anime take every chance they get to show a little fan service, and while I can't say that I dislike it, I can definitely see how some women would take offense with it. Showing girls as something to drool over and nothing else isn't exactly the best way to get on a lady's good side.
Then there are the female anime characters that do nothing but cater to a man's every whim. That might be a husband, boyfriend or crush, but they all get treated the same. Some female anime characters go out of their way to be polite to the male characters, never questioning what they have to say. It's all about keeping the man happy and hiding away personal opinions. Again, this doesn't really fall in step with the rest of the world, and I can definitely see why women might be a bit upset with it.
How do you feel about the portrayal of females in anime? There are some features that show us strong, proud female roles, and those are the ones I really dig. When women are used as sex objects or vapid bodies in anime, I can see where the real-world counterparts get a bit ticked off. I'm not against fan service in any way, but anime that uses women for this purpose only is doing nothing but hurting its audience.
Taboo: Your stance on censorship
What is acceptable in one country may not be acceptable in another. That goes for just about any entertainment medium, and anime is definitely included. For example, here in the states it's more common to see violence on primetime TV, but sex is more of a taboo topic. Over in Europe, it's more of the reverse. Even here in the states we see more strict guidelines when it comes to curse words. Anime localizations have to take all of this into account.
That's where the topic of censorship comes into play. It doesn't really have to do with a localization house wanting to make cuts. There are times when they absolutely have to make edits in order to localize a show or movie. There are things that go by without any issue in Japan, but here in the states you could land yourself in some major legal trouble.
There have been numerous occasions where an anime was edited for release in North America. Cuts that took out sexual situations are definitely more prevalent than those of violence or other content, but it does depend on the age group that is seeing a show. Programs like Naruto are edited here as well, and some of the content taken out seems to make little to no sense when compared to other like-minded programming that airs here.
What is your stance on anime censorship? Is it a necessary evil, or would you rather localization houses just kept the show in Japan? Do edits ruin the spirit and message of a show?
That's where the topic of censorship comes into play. It doesn't really have to do with a localization house wanting to make cuts. There are times when they absolutely have to make edits in order to localize a show or movie. There are things that go by without any issue in Japan, but here in the states you could land yourself in some major legal trouble.
There have been numerous occasions where an anime was edited for release in North America. Cuts that took out sexual situations are definitely more prevalent than those of violence or other content, but it does depend on the age group that is seeing a show. Programs like Naruto are edited here as well, and some of the content taken out seems to make little to no sense when compared to other like-minded programming that airs here.
What is your stance on anime censorship? Is it a necessary evil, or would you rather localization houses just kept the show in Japan? Do edits ruin the spirit and message of a show?
Bandai Announces September 2011 Releases - Now Available for Pre-Order!
K-On! Vol #3 DVD - Sep 13
K-On! Vol #3 (BLURAY) - Sep 13
Mobile Suit Gundam Complete Collection 1 DVD Boxed Set (Anime Legends) - Sep 13
Girl Who Leapt Through Space Part #3 DVD - Sep 13
Melancholy of Haruhi: Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya Movie DVD/BD Combo Pack - Sep 20
Melancholy of Haruhi: Disappearance of Haruhi Suzumiya Movie DVD - Sep 20
Couple notes: It's nice to see original Gundam FINALLY get a Legends Release - this one is way overdue! Keep in mind that Bandai is releasing this schedule to retailers only about 6 weeks before the first releases are supposed to street, so there is a good chance some of these will be delayed later on. We've priced the Haruhi Movie BD/DVD combo version very low to encourage folks to order that version rather than the standard DVD release as we would rather not stock a lot of that version.
Catherine - impressions
I've put in a lot more time with Catherine since I last talked about it. I spent a good part of the early morning hours yesterday playing through the game, and I have a much better idea of what the game truly offers. I'm very happy to say that I like the game even more than I did from my early impressions. You know a game is good when you have to pry yourself away from it!
Interactive anime is the perfect way to describe Catherine. As a matter of fact, I think just watching Catherine as an anime would work almost as well as the game. There's a little something added by the ability to walk around an make decisions, since you can decide how the story ends up playing out through decisions you make. That's not something you can do with an anime, so that slight interactive element really does make the experience unique.
Not surprisingly, Catherine also has an easy option for those that are more interested in just watching the story unfold rather than playing. I'm not playing that way right now, but I plan on going through that setting once I finish up the game. I'm thinking that mode will have even less input as far as traditional gameplay goes. It should have you just sitting back and taking in the story for most of the experience. Definitely a unique and interesting approach, but it fits nicely with this type of game.
As with any anime, the emphasis in Catherine is on story. You're playing your way through the experience in order to get deeper into the story, moreso than you do with any other game. There are tons of games that feature stories, but a good majority of them aren't really all that important to the game itself. Catherine is all about the story, and everything you do in the game relates to how that story plays out. If you're not into games for their stories, I suggest you stay far away from Catherine.
Oddly enough, the puzzle section of the game is quite enjoyable as well. The good news is, this puzzle element is a big part of the story. Playing through these sections gives you more information on characters and where the story is going. I actually think that the puzzle game within Catherine could stand on its own as a downloadable title. It's all about pushing blocks to climb a tower, making sure you climb faster than the tower falls apart. These gameplay sections mesh with the story perfectly, but they also provide a nice break from just sitting and watching. Being an active participant in the story of Catherine is pretty damn fun!
Again, I have to highly recommend this title to anyone that is into anime and gaming. As long as you don't mind more story than gameplay, Catherine should be right up your alley. I'll be back with a full review once I complete the game.
Interactive anime is the perfect way to describe Catherine. As a matter of fact, I think just watching Catherine as an anime would work almost as well as the game. There's a little something added by the ability to walk around an make decisions, since you can decide how the story ends up playing out through decisions you make. That's not something you can do with an anime, so that slight interactive element really does make the experience unique.
Not surprisingly, Catherine also has an easy option for those that are more interested in just watching the story unfold rather than playing. I'm not playing that way right now, but I plan on going through that setting once I finish up the game. I'm thinking that mode will have even less input as far as traditional gameplay goes. It should have you just sitting back and taking in the story for most of the experience. Definitely a unique and interesting approach, but it fits nicely with this type of game.
As with any anime, the emphasis in Catherine is on story. You're playing your way through the experience in order to get deeper into the story, moreso than you do with any other game. There are tons of games that feature stories, but a good majority of them aren't really all that important to the game itself. Catherine is all about the story, and everything you do in the game relates to how that story plays out. If you're not into games for their stories, I suggest you stay far away from Catherine.
Oddly enough, the puzzle section of the game is quite enjoyable as well. The good news is, this puzzle element is a big part of the story. Playing through these sections gives you more information on characters and where the story is going. I actually think that the puzzle game within Catherine could stand on its own as a downloadable title. It's all about pushing blocks to climb a tower, making sure you climb faster than the tower falls apart. These gameplay sections mesh with the story perfectly, but they also provide a nice break from just sitting and watching. Being an active participant in the story of Catherine is pretty damn fun!
Again, I have to highly recommend this title to anyone that is into anime and gaming. As long as you don't mind more story than gameplay, Catherine should be right up your alley. I'll be back with a full review once I complete the game.
Taboo: That anime scene you could never explain
The world of anime is filled with all kinds of crazy, fantastical and insane situations. It just comes with the territory, and it's part of why we love anime so much. The ideas that anime puts forth are sort-of no holds barred. The animators and creators go wherever they want to when telling a story, and we're just along for the ride. You better be ready to go to some places you've never been before!
Sometimes those story twists and turns take us into some very unique and...tough to explain situations. An anime could be about serious topics like love and betrayal, but some points in the series could be nothing more than fan service. You and I know that those points in a series don't speak for the overall goals and path of the story, but those that don't watch anime don't know that.
For example, let's take a scene in Fooly Cooly. This series is full to the brim with all kinds of insane imagery. That's the the taboo kind of content that may make you blush when someone walks in on you watching. One scene in the series shows the main female lead Haruko laying down right on top of the male lead Naota, who just happens to be a young boy. Making things even more 'interesting' is the fact that Haruko is wearing nothing but a skimpy nightgown that doesn't really offer much coverage below the waist. If you're involved with the series up to that point, you know exactly what's going on and why it makes sense for the story. For the average joe, walking in on that would look like an extremely inappropriate scene.
What anime you have seen that might get you in trouble if caught at the wrong time? Every anime takes a few tangents along the way, and some of them might be quite taboo for someone that just stumbles onto a viewing. What we take for granted could turn someone else away in an instant!
Sometimes those story twists and turns take us into some very unique and...tough to explain situations. An anime could be about serious topics like love and betrayal, but some points in the series could be nothing more than fan service. You and I know that those points in a series don't speak for the overall goals and path of the story, but those that don't watch anime don't know that.
For example, let's take a scene in Fooly Cooly. This series is full to the brim with all kinds of insane imagery. That's the the taboo kind of content that may make you blush when someone walks in on you watching. One scene in the series shows the main female lead Haruko laying down right on top of the male lead Naota, who just happens to be a young boy. Making things even more 'interesting' is the fact that Haruko is wearing nothing but a skimpy nightgown that doesn't really offer much coverage below the waist. If you're involved with the series up to that point, you know exactly what's going on and why it makes sense for the story. For the average joe, walking in on that would look like an extremely inappropriate scene.
What anime you have seen that might get you in trouble if caught at the wrong time? Every anime takes a few tangents along the way, and some of them might be quite taboo for someone that just stumbles onto a viewing. What we take for granted could turn someone else away in an instant!
Taboo: The anime you watch that you think would be frowned upon
Time to flip the question around for our second taboo feature! In our first article we discussed content that you consider taboo. Content that you don't want to see in your anime. It's completely fine for you to pick and choose what type of content you want to watch. Now let's take a look at the content you do watch, and what you think others may say about it.
We're not talking about anime in general, because we know that plenty of people look down on those that view anime. That's another topic in and of itself. We're looking specifically at anime that you own, and content that's in it that might turn a few heads. You may be fine with that content, but once again, showing it to specific people may end up changing their opinions of you.
I hate to beat a dead horse here, but I once again have to turn to Dance in the Vampire Bund for my selection. I can't say enough good things about the show because it really is enjoyable. That's why I find it so unfortunate to see that some of the content in the show is not just risque, it's quite uncomfortable. That's coming from an American perspective, I guess. There are a number of friends/family I know would enjoy the show, but I dare not show it to them because I know their jaws would hit the floor with that uncomfortable content. I'm not a fan of it either in any way, but I am willing to look past/through it for the overall show.
No need to be shy...time to fess up about the taboo anime content that you own or have seen. What anime content are you okay with, but you fear that others might judge you for it?
We're not talking about anime in general, because we know that plenty of people look down on those that view anime. That's another topic in and of itself. We're looking specifically at anime that you own, and content that's in it that might turn a few heads. You may be fine with that content, but once again, showing it to specific people may end up changing their opinions of you.
I hate to beat a dead horse here, but I once again have to turn to Dance in the Vampire Bund for my selection. I can't say enough good things about the show because it really is enjoyable. That's why I find it so unfortunate to see that some of the content in the show is not just risque, it's quite uncomfortable. That's coming from an American perspective, I guess. There are a number of friends/family I know would enjoy the show, but I dare not show it to them because I know their jaws would hit the floor with that uncomfortable content. I'm not a fan of it either in any way, but I am willing to look past/through it for the overall show.
No need to be shy...time to fess up about the taboo anime content that you own or have seen. What anime content are you okay with, but you fear that others might judge you for it?
Taboo: Anime You Dare Not Watch
Last night I was hanging with a friend that happens to be into anime. We got into a short discussion about Dance in the Vampire Bund, and it lead me to what I hope is an interesting line of features for the site. I'll be running with the 'Taboo' theme for a few posts today, and I hope you'll enjoy reading and commenting on them. I mean, it's always fun to talk about taboo topics, right?!
As I mentioned, my discussion last night was revolving around Dance in the Vampire Bund. If you read my review of the series, you no doubt know what kind of taboo I'm talking about. That discussion had me thinking about all the taboo topics that anime likes to delve into. While I'm sure age-related taboos come into the minds of many, there are plenty of other taboo situations that crop up. It all depends on what your beliefs are.
To say that violence isn't taboo would be simply incorrect. While it's true that many people are desensitized to violence nowadays, I still find the violence in anime to be a step further. I guess if I had to pilfer a term, I'd go with the old 'ultra violence' that we heard about in A Clockwork Orange. Anime violence is sometimes very over-the-top and quite brutal. I'm not saying that's a good or bad thing, but there are plenty that would view this type of content as taboo.
That's just one example of taboo visuals and topics in anime. There are a million others to discuss, but I'm leaving that up to you guys. What anime do you refuse to watch due to a taboo topic in your own mind? Did you ever watch a series only to hit upon an episode that absolutely shocked you, keeping you away from that series from here on out?
As I mentioned, my discussion last night was revolving around Dance in the Vampire Bund. If you read my review of the series, you no doubt know what kind of taboo I'm talking about. That discussion had me thinking about all the taboo topics that anime likes to delve into. While I'm sure age-related taboos come into the minds of many, there are plenty of other taboo situations that crop up. It all depends on what your beliefs are.
To say that violence isn't taboo would be simply incorrect. While it's true that many people are desensitized to violence nowadays, I still find the violence in anime to be a step further. I guess if I had to pilfer a term, I'd go with the old 'ultra violence' that we heard about in A Clockwork Orange. Anime violence is sometimes very over-the-top and quite brutal. I'm not saying that's a good or bad thing, but there are plenty that would view this type of content as taboo.
That's just one example of taboo visuals and topics in anime. There are a million others to discuss, but I'm leaving that up to you guys. What anime do you refuse to watch due to a taboo topic in your own mind? Did you ever watch a series only to hit upon an episode that absolutely shocked you, keeping you away from that series from here on out?
Using anime soundtracks to introduce anime itself
I touched on this very briefly back when I started the site, but it's a topic I've wanted to revisit since then. Hopefully my earlier article showed you guys just how important anime soundtracks are to me. The music for an anime can be an absolutely wonderful way to tie a scene together, and those songs from a show can help you relive anime moments as if it were your first time watching. Not surprisingly, you can use anime music to lead someone into their first anime viewing.
There are people out there that absolutely will not give anime a chance. No matter what you say or do, they won't have any of it. That's the end of the road, right? No other options to try and get them into the world of anime? That's not true at all! You just have to be extra clever with how you try and sneak them into anime, and music can be the perfect way to do it.
When was the last time you talked to someone that said they hated music? Sure, there are plenty of people that hate genres of music, but I can't think of anyone that hates music in general. There's always a type of music, or a band, or a particular song that people like. That universe interest in music can be your first foot in the door when trying to get a newcomer to check out anime.
As I've already discussed, anime isn't just about the visuals. There are hundreds of amazing songs that go with anime features. All you have to do with newcomers is sneak in some anime music when you get the chance. Play a few anime songs during a car ride. Let your iTunes playlist shuffle through anime songs while hosting a party. Play some anime tracks on your computer while friends are over. I'm sure that some people will eventually ask what a particular track is, and rather than telling them about it you can show them! You'd be surprised how much more willing people will be to check out anime when they already have something that tickles their fancy.
There are people out there that absolutely will not give anime a chance. No matter what you say or do, they won't have any of it. That's the end of the road, right? No other options to try and get them into the world of anime? That's not true at all! You just have to be extra clever with how you try and sneak them into anime, and music can be the perfect way to do it.
When was the last time you talked to someone that said they hated music? Sure, there are plenty of people that hate genres of music, but I can't think of anyone that hates music in general. There's always a type of music, or a band, or a particular song that people like. That universe interest in music can be your first foot in the door when trying to get a newcomer to check out anime.
As I've already discussed, anime isn't just about the visuals. There are hundreds of amazing songs that go with anime features. All you have to do with newcomers is sneak in some anime music when you get the chance. Play a few anime songs during a car ride. Let your iTunes playlist shuffle through anime songs while hosting a party. Play some anime tracks on your computer while friends are over. I'm sure that some people will eventually ask what a particular track is, and rather than telling them about it you can show them! You'd be surprised how much more willing people will be to check out anime when they already have something that tickles their fancy.
Hurry up with the trailers already!
I don't know about you, but when I pick up a new DVD/Blu-ray anime, I am really looking forward to popping it in and checking it out. When I finally get the chance to do that, I may not have as much time as I'd like to dedicate to watching. That means that every minute is precious! That's why I mostly cannot stand when localization houses load up their latest releases with tons of trailers!
Back in the day when VHS was the main format for in-home movie viewing, trailers on tapes were even more of a problem. You had to fast-forward through various trailers, and it would eat up a lot of time! With today's DVD and Blu-ray content, at least you can hit the skip button to jump past these features. Well...most of the time, anyway! Sometimes you can't skip at all, which means you're stuck watching the trailers.
When I think about trailers on anime DVDs that have actually interested me, I can count the number of times on a single finger. I understand that companies have to support the content that they're publishing, and sticking trailers on their releases makes perfect sense. The problem is, when we're forced to watch this content, it sometimes makes us resent the content we're being shown! You're just looking to watch the feature you bought, but instead you have to watch a trailer for something you're not interested in at all.
I don't think that trailers on anime DVDs are a bad thing. I just think that we should always be able to skip, and perhaps companies shouldn't load up their DVDs with so many trailers. Getting a feature that has 6 trailers before it seems like a little much. That's more than you'd see when you take in a movie at your local movie theater! I shelled out the cash to purchase an anime DVD from (insert company here), at least respect that I spent the cash and don't waste too much of my time!
How do you guys feel about anime trailers on your recent DVD/Blu-ray purchases? Do you find them informative and engaging, or do they just get in the way?
Back in the day when VHS was the main format for in-home movie viewing, trailers on tapes were even more of a problem. You had to fast-forward through various trailers, and it would eat up a lot of time! With today's DVD and Blu-ray content, at least you can hit the skip button to jump past these features. Well...most of the time, anyway! Sometimes you can't skip at all, which means you're stuck watching the trailers.
When I think about trailers on anime DVDs that have actually interested me, I can count the number of times on a single finger. I understand that companies have to support the content that they're publishing, and sticking trailers on their releases makes perfect sense. The problem is, when we're forced to watch this content, it sometimes makes us resent the content we're being shown! You're just looking to watch the feature you bought, but instead you have to watch a trailer for something you're not interested in at all.
I don't think that trailers on anime DVDs are a bad thing. I just think that we should always be able to skip, and perhaps companies shouldn't load up their DVDs with so many trailers. Getting a feature that has 6 trailers before it seems like a little much. That's more than you'd see when you take in a movie at your local movie theater! I shelled out the cash to purchase an anime DVD from (insert company here), at least respect that I spent the cash and don't waste too much of my time!
How do you guys feel about anime trailers on your recent DVD/Blu-ray purchases? Do you find them informative and engaging, or do they just get in the way?
Catherine - early impressions
I managed to find some time to sneak out to my local GameStop today and pick up a copy of Catherine. Not that long ago I mentioned that this game looked like it would be a great title for those that are into anime and gaming as well. While I've only put in about an hour's worth of time with the title, I can already see that there's a lot to love, especially if you're an anime fan.
What's the biggest reason fans of anime will like this game? Well...it has a ton of anime in it! The gameplay itself uses a visual style that mimics the anime scenes in the game. It seems like more of the game is going to be spent watching anime scenes and then making a few key decisions, and that's fine with me. I'm down for an interactive anime story, and Catherine is delivering that thus far.
As I usually find with most anime, the story is indeed unique and engaging. Early on we learn about the main character's rather scary dreams, and start to see hints of other people having those same nightmares. The key difference is, it looks like some people that have these nightmares actually never wake up. One person is found dead in their bed, and thus far there have been some strong hints that he died from the same nightmare that our main character had. That's a hook good enough to get me invested this early on!
I'll definitely have more to say about Catherine as I play on. I'm thinking I'll put together one more impressions feature and then a review later down the road. Early on, I'm not afraid to say that anime fans will find a lot to like here. Just be prepared to watch more than you actually play, and don't go in expecting tons of action-related gameplay. This is a puzzler/interactive story, and if you have an open mind for both anime and unique gameplay, this is a title for you.
Media Blasters October 2011 Releases - Now Available for Pre-Order!
Here's what's coming:
Twelve Kingdoms Part 2 : Sea of the Wind, Shore of the Maze BLURAY (Ep #15-33) - Oct 11
Ikki Tousen Great Guardians , Vol #2 DVD (Eps #7-12) - Oct 25
Just a heads up, the Great Guardians DVD's include the OVA episodes as extras. Vol #1 contains OVA ep #1-3 and Vol #2 contains ep #4-6.
Love Pheromone No.5 Chapter 14
Group Scanlating: Horobi no Michi & 4dawgz
Here's another hilarious chapter of Love Pheromone No.5. Enjoy!
To download previous chapters, click here.
Overall rating:
Download
Love Pheromone No.5 Chapter 14
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
