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This Week in Games - Hack The Past
Cyber Connect 2 tells fans to let Bandai Namco know if they want a .hack//IMOQ revival, and there's already a hashtag (#dothack). Plus, Gundam Evolution is shutting down just one year after its launch. Say it isn't so!
― Hi, everyone! As you read this, I'll be trying to assemble a new PC. I've had my new PC case (emblazoned with my favorite VTuber) taking up space in my room; I may as well put it and...
The ANN Aftershow - Best Anime of Summer 2023 So Far...
Lynzee, Jacki, and James are back at an all-new summer time! Join us to talk the new anime that premiered this month, including Jujutsu Kaisen and Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead!
― Best Anime of Summer 2023 So Far... Lynzee, Jacki, and James are back at an all-new summer time! Join us to talk about the ending of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury and Heavenly Delusion and all the new anime...
This Week in Anime - An Alternate History in Ōoku: The Inner Chambers
Join Steve and Nicky this week as they explore Ōoku's alternate take on history where a female-led Shogun rules over Feudal Japan, accompanied by a harem of men that makes up the Ōoku.
― Fumi Yoshinaga's multi-award-winning manga, Ōoku: The Inner Chambers, officially makes its anime debut this summer. Join Steve and Nicky this week as they explore Ōoku's alternate take on history where a female-led ...
This Week in Games - AI Voice-Scraping Can't End Soon Enough
It's Jean-Karlo's first TWIG anniversary, and he has a lot to talk about, including a new impressive set of releases from LimitedRun, and AI voice impersonations coming a head in the fan community.
― Welcome back, everyone! We've been busy over here; this past week, I was working on the Atelier Marie Remake review. It's a delightful game, someone does need to illustrate a family tree for the Atelier ...
This Week in Anime - What's So Great About Fate/strange Fake?
Even if you don't know anything about Fate, these are just interesting ideas in their own right.
― Nick and Nicky double down on the hype surrounding the newest anime entry of the Fate franchise, Fate/strange Fake - Whispers of Dawn. These series are streaming on Crunchyroll and HIDIVE. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News N...
This Week in Anime - What New Isekai Anime Should You Watch?
Chris and Steve work their way through all the summer isekai anime to date to see if there's one shining light among the reincarnated heroes.
― Chris and Steve work their way through all the summer isekai anime to date to see if there's one shining light among the reincarnated heroes. These series are streaming on Crunchyroll and HIDIVE. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participan...
This Week in Games - Back, By Popular Demand...
Tsukihime is returning with a brand-new route! Also, an interesting article by Art-Eater points out the similarities between Final Fantasy IV and the Terry Gilliam film, The Adventures of Baron Munchausen.
― Welcome back, folks! We've got AX and Independence Day behind us; hopefully, the rest of the summer is smoother from here. Anime Expo looks like a ton of fun, but every year you hear about the ho...
This Week in Games - Saltgirls
It is a good time to be an Atelier Ryza fan and Happy birthday Sonic!
― Welcome back to Summer, everyone! I've been hanging back and watching everyone talk about Final Fantasy XVI and... it sounds like I need to eat my words because it looks like they pulled it off? Sure, it sounds like the combat breaks down a little in crowds, but everything I've seen involving the game looks fairly solid. There's ...
This Week in Anime - A Trip Down Memory Lane with Dragon Ball Z
Step aside, seasonal premieres! This week, we're turning the spotlight on an anime powerhouse that needs no introduction: Dragon Ball Z.
― Step aside, seasonal premieres! This week, we're turning the spotlight on an anime powerhouse that needs no introduction: Dragon Ball Z. Buckle up as we make a trip down memory lane to revisit moments from the iconic franchise. This series is streaming on Crunchy...
This Week in Games - Elephantitis, Don't Even Get Me Started
The newest Nintendo Direct shattered all of our expectations with an amazing line-up!
― Welcome back, everyone! Things are nice and cozy as summer rolls along. I even had time to play a little Xenoblade Chronicles 3, though it's mostly exploration. Now that a big reveal has been cleared, I wanted to go back and fill out more of the map. It was a busy month, though, as I worked through three game revi...
This Week in Anime - Unraveling the Eccentric Chaos of Dead Mount Death Play
After Baccano! and Durarara!!, this season marked the return of Narita's works to the screens with the adaptation of Dead Mount Death Play. Read on as we dissect the intricate magic woven into Narita's latest work.
― If anyone can combine mismatched ingredients into something entertaining, it's Ryōgo Narita. After Baccano! and Durarara!!, this season marked the return of Narita's works to the screen...
This Week in Anime - Why It's Difficult To Separate Rurouni Kenshin from Nobuhiro Watsuki
The dilemma surrounding Rurouni Kenshin continues as the premiere of the series' reboot looms with Anime Expo right around the corner.
― When does the line "separating the art from the artist" no longer apply? When the artist has crossed a line by committing crimes of great severity? The dilemma surrounding Rurouni Kenshin continues as the premiere of the series' reboot looms with Anime Expo right a...
This Week in Games - From The Materia Of Your Soul
Jean-Karlo hypothesizes about possible major changes in the Final Fantasy VII remake's plot, plus the missed opportunities in the Persona franchise's newest entry.
― Welcome back, everyone! Wow, what a week! I saw the Super Mario Bros movie last week. Wow, what a movie with a miscast lead and horribly shoehorned pop culture music. There were a ton of announcements this past week; I'm definitely itchi...
This Week in Anime - Why Demon Slayer May Not Have 'Slayed' This Season
Has the series' recent successes and prolonged battles exhausted its pacing this season? Maybe.
― Has the series' recent successes exhausted its pacing this season? Maybe. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu, Netflix, and Viu. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion o...
The ANN Aftershow - Heavenly Delusion Gets Even Weirder (Yes It's Possible)
Lynzee and James continue to be shocked by the twists in Heavenly Delusion (did they just pull a Get Out!?).
― Heavenly Delusion Gets Even Weirder (Yes It's Possible) Lynzee and James continue to be shocked by the twists in Heavenly Delusion (did they just pull a Get Out!?). Meanwhile, Miorine has a breakdown in G-Witch and Suletta is about to find herself facing off against Lauda! The ANN After Sho...
This Week in Games - Pokémon Strike Version and Protest Version
The top four players in Korea's Pokémon league were disqualified this past week for protesting the tournament by hacking their entire teams into knowing nothing but the move Metronome.
― Well, that's an egg on my face—I finished Chapter 5 of Xenoblade Chronicles 3 over the weekend. So much for "July"! They sure played us like a fiddle with that chapter. But we can talk about that later; in more impor...
This Week in Anime - Yuri Is My Job! Is the Best Gayfabe We Could Ask For
What starts as a silly comedy about role-playing in a yuri-themed café turns into a rollercoaster of real emotions.
― What starts as a silly comedy about role-playing in a yuri-themed café turns into a rollercoaster of real emotions. Our columnists peel back the layers of performance in this gleefully metatextual rom-com. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions ex...
This Week in Anime - Top Reasons to Watch Skip and Loafer
Nick and Steve discuss the myriad of reasons why Skip and Loafer is a top-tier rom-com, from fully-realized characters and expertly-timed comedy to positive trans representation.
― Nick and Steve discuss the myriad of reasons why Skip and Loafer is a top-tier rom-com, from fully-realized characters and expertly-timed comedy to positive trans representation. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll. D...
This Week in Games - A Good Week For Dragons And Novels
We have the latest on all things Dragon Quest, including Adventure of Dai jumping into the gaming world. Plus: Nintendo Force kickstarts a book on Satoru Iwata's legacy, Tokimemo news, and more!
― Welcome back, everyone! I'd like you all to know I've been making slight progress on a chain of floating islands near a castle in Xenoblade Chronicles 3. With any luck, I'll be storming that castle by July....
Answerman - What's With All the Overpowered Characters in Anime?
Web novels with overpowered protagonists have a niche appeal, so why are so many adapted into anime? It all comes back to the production committee system.
― Eric asked:
Why is there a recent trend in making the protagonists of anime—especially isekai—so overpowered? In shows like One-Punch Man, That Time I Got Reincarnated As a Slime, and Isekai Cheat Skill, the heroes are so far ahead of their oppo...
The ANN Aftershow - The Gang Starts a Space War
Lynzee and James discuss the latest episode of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, reflect on Heavenly Delusion as the main events coalesce, and that devastating episode of Oshi no Ko!
― The Gang Starts a Space War Lynzee and James discuss the latest episode of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury as Miorine and Guel head to Earth to negotiate but unknowingly help set in motion an inte...
This Week in Anime - Birdie Wing Takes the Swing
It's the height of the sports season, and championships are in full swing. While sports tournaments play out this season, Birdie Wing's got different ideas for its golf tournaments.
― It's the height of the sports season, and championships are in full swing. While sports tournaments play out this season, Birdie Wing's got different ideas for its golf tournaments. This series is streaming on Crunchyr...
This Week in Anime - Redefining the Gundam Legacy in The Witch from Mercury
Gundam's latest installment, The Witch From Mercury, redefines the legacy of the franchise while on the track to becoming one of the season's best sitcoms.
― Whoever said one has to follow the path laid by others? Gundam's latest installment, The Witch From Mercury, is the perfect example, as the series redefines the legacy of the franchise while on the track to becoming one of the season's best sit...
Answerman - Why Is K MANGA Not a Subscription Service?
Kodansha explained it opted for in-app currency because it better benefits manga creators.
― Earlier this month, the K MANGA app launched in the U.S. We saw your questions in the forums and social media and posed them to Kodansha. ANN readers asked:
In the U.S. market, a number of manga services such as the Shonen Jump app use a subscription model. What was the reasoning behind K MANGA using a coin ...
This Week in Games - A Tale of Two Showcases
Jean-Karlo gets us up to speed on all the big announcements from Sony and Marvelous. Which game are you most excited to play?
― Welcome back, everyone! Great news: I was actually able to get some Xenoblade 3 in this past weekend. With any luck, I'll finish Chapter 5 by the end of summer! This is... Before We Begin... I want to get something off my chest, as it's quite important to me. This past May 2...
This Week in Anime - What Makes Hell's Paradise So Unique?
Hell's Paradise asks the important question: Will your typical shōnen anime immediately become better if your protagonist is a wife guy?
― Hell's Paradise asks the important question: Will your typical shōnen anime immediately become better if your protagonist is a wife guy? (The answer is yes.) This series is streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants...
The ANN Aftershow - We Cracked Heavenly Delusion's Timeline
Lynzee is back from Japan to discuss the continued tragedy of Suletta Mercury and the dark twists of Heavenly Delusion! Just as the podcast starts to wrap up...we crack the code on what's really going on in Production I.G's sci-fi hit.
― We Cracked Heavenly Delusion's Timeline Lynzee is back from Japan to discuss the continued tragedy of Suletta Mercury and the dark twists of Heavenly Delusion! Just...
This Week in Anime - A Digital Safe Haven in My Love Story with Yamada-kun
Join us this week as we dive into how the show reflects the transformative nature of the digital world in forging virtual and real-life relationships.
― My Love Story with Yamada-kun at Lv999 encapsulates the modern conundrum of dealing with social interaction and human relationships, both online and offline. Join us this week as we dive into how the show reflects the transformative nature of the di...
This Week In Games - Emotions Running High Like The Temperature
A new Mortal Kombat game, more Microsoft/Activision Blizzard drama, and the original Shantae comes to PS4/5!
― Welcome back, everyone! It seems Spring has given us a miss and we're just skipping right into summer. And that suits me just fine, I've been enjoying my lunches outside in the sunshine for the past week. But I do know a lot of people can't take temperatures above 70 degrees Fahrenheit, so I...
This Week in Anime - Does It Pay to Read Manga on Manga Apps?
Can manga apps find the golden means to cater to all audiences in a world where manga piracy persists?
― Official manga apps like Kodansha's K Manga and Square Enix's Manga UP! are plagued with issues such as in-app purchases and currencies that could deter manga fans and readers alike from accessing their favorite series. Can these apps find the golden means to cater to all audiences in a world whe...
This Week in Anime - “So Bad it's Good”? Why KamiKatsu Doesn't Cut Close to That
KamiKatsu had a promising premise. But its bizarre, lackluster execution has only butchered the show to the point where it can barely pass off as another “so-bad-it's-good” production.
― KamiKatsu had a lot of potential as a manga-based isekai anime with a promising premise. But its bizarre, lackluster execution has only butchered the show to a point it can barely pass off as another “so-bad-it's-go...
This Week in Games - "Next stop, Hyrule!"
It's Zelda Day in America! But don't rush out just yet to explore the new open world—there are some other games out there.
― Welcome back, everyone! As you read this, it's Zelda Day in America. No doubt everyone is gonna be going absolutely crazy delving into the hotly anticipated sequel to Breath of the Wild, which itself has become the metric by which all open world games and Nintendo Switch titles...
This Week in Anime - Donghua Keeps Getting Better
Anime industry insiders predict that Chinese animation will overtake Japan in the future, but does it have to be a competition? Let's take this opportunity to simply appreciate some cool donghua.
― Anime industry insiders predict that Chinese animation will overtake Japan in the future, but does it have to be a competition? Let's take this opportunity to simply appreciate some cool donghua. These se...
This Week in Anime - Breaking the Mold with Soaring Sky! Pretty Cure
Soaring Sky! Pretty Cure breaks the mold by officially introducing its first ever boy Precure in the franchise's 20-year history. How will it hold up against conventional wisdom that boys should stay away from "girly" things?
― The idea of having Magical Boys aboard the Magical Girl franchise has only ever been considered a running gag or joke in the series. But Soaring Sky! Pretty Cure breaks the m...
Answerman - Why is Yuri Anime So Popular Now?
With recent hits like Lycoris Recoil and G-Witch, what explains the zeitgeist for yuri anime these days? Answerman delves into it.
― Chris asked:
We've got a lot of new Yuri/ Shoujo Ai anime coming out in 2023 and others, like Birdie Wing and G Witch, are getting continuations. I'm wondering why it's happening now. I've read the source novels/manga for about 80% of the new anime, so I know that the ...
This Week in Games - The True Secret of the Dragon is Guns
It's a quieter week as we wait for Tears of the Kingdom, but Double Dragon is getting a new game! Also, RIP, Waypoint.
― Welcome back, everyone! With everything having calmed down slightly, I finally got some time to play Xenoblade 3! We also received a delightful surprise earlier this week! Back in late March, I was lucky enough to review Atelier Ryza 3: Alchemist of the End & the Secret Key. And ju...
This Week in Anime - The YAS-ification of Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan's Island
The recent Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan's Island film gave Mobile Suit Gundam animation director Yasuhiko "YAS" Yoshikazu the opportunity to redo an infamous chapter in the anime's history. How does the episode hold up with a modern coat of paint?
― The recent Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan's Island film gave Mobile Suit Gundam animation director Yasuhiko "YAS" Yoshikazu the opportunity to red...
The ANN Aftershow - Lovable Anime Dirtbags
This week is all about controversial opinions as we discuss G-Witch's conniving mommy, Prospera!
― Lovable Anime Dirtbags This week is all about controversial opinions as we discuss G-Witch's conniving mommy, Prospera! The various Benerit Group factions are vying for the open presidency as Prospera pays a visit and Miorine discovers how deep Suletta's dedication to her mom goes. Also: Our top five "...
This Week in Anime - The Corp-orification of Kizuna Ai
Kizuna Ai broke ground for the VTuber space when she debuted in 2016, earning worldwide recognition. As the VTuber-sphere expanded beyond her, the idol's virtual footprint shrank. The Kizuna no Allele anime looks to bring her to the forefront of the conversation again, but its approval-by-committee approach runs antithesis to the freedom that VTubing can bring creators.
― Kizuna Ai broke ground for ...
This Week in Games - "Hand It Over, That Thing, Your Armored Core"
It's been a great week for mecha game fans! Jean-Karlo digs into the new Armored Core VI trailer, the latest Gundam Evolution season, and more!
― Welcome back, everyone! We had a really busy week—me and my fellow contributors got everything ready for Manga Preview Guide this past week, so there wasn't much time for video gaming on my end—and the Xenoblade 3 DLC dropped earlier this Tuesday. Just one ...
This Week in Anime - Oshi no Ko and the Idol Industry's Dirty Secret
The hit anime presents the audience with "Ai," a girl whose name means "love" but whose form of love is lying. The center of the series' mystery peels back the layers of an industry that seems sugary-sweet but spits girls out like chewed bubblegum.
― The hit anime presents the audience with "Ai," a girl whose name means "love" but whose form of love is lying. The center of the series' mystery peels ...
The ANN Aftershow - The Tragedy of G-Witch's Guel Jeturk
We return to Earth this week for Gundam: The Witch from Mercury episode 15, "Father and Child." Guel Jeturk is holed up in a bathroom, trying to face his father's death while other G-Witch kids grapple with their parental relationships.
― The Tragedy of G-Witch's Guel Jeturk We return to Earth this week for Gundam: The Witch from Mercury episode 15, "Father and Child." Guel Jeturk is holed up in a b...
This Week in Anime - What the Hell is Going on in Heavenly Delusion?
Production I.G's amazing adaptation has to fight an uphill battle for eyeballs thanks to Hulu's lackluster promotion. If you manage to find the series, prepare yourself for a ride unlike any other this season.
― Production I.G's amazing adaptation has to fight an uphill battle for eyeballs thanks to Hulu's lackluster promotion. If you manage to find the series, prepare yourself for a ride unlike any...
This Week in Games - The Ten-Million Dollar Bricklayer
This week: the low-down on Nintendo's Indie Showcase, who is the less evil in the Nintendo vs Gary Bowser case, and what we know about the new Sonic live-action spin-off!
― Glad to see everyone back! As you read this, I'll likely be wrapping up my reading for ANN's seasonal Manga Preview guide. It's not game-related, but it's a phenomenal way to look into new stuff and discover new stories to love—I ...
This Week in Anime - The Best OPs and EDs This Season
Our columnists share their favorite new OPs and EDs this season, from Magical Destroyers to G-Witch season 2. Which themes tickled your fancy?
― Our columnists share their favorite new OPs and EDs this season, from Magical Destroyers to G-Witch season 2. Which themes tickled your fancy? Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News N...
The ANN Aftershow - Let's Talk Gundam: The Witch from Mercury
Who else was shocked by the big reveal in Gundam: The Witch from Mercury? Lynzee and James discuss Prospera's plans for Suletta and where the series can go from here. Also, Heavenly Delusion is one of the weirdest anime this season.
― Let's Talk Gundam: The Witch from Mercury Who else was shocked by the big reveal in Gundam: The Witch from Mercury? Lynzee and James discuss Prospera's plans for Sule...
This Week in Anime - Has the Isekai Genre Given Up?
Nick and Steve wade through the latest season of isekai, reverse-isekai, and reverse-reverse-isekai and come to a startling revelation: we've truly reached the bottom of the barrel.
― Nick and Steve wade through the latest season of isekai, reverse-isekai, and reverse-reverse-isekai and come to a startling revelation: we've truly reached the bottom of the barrel. Disclaimer: The views and opinions e...
This Week in Games - I Just Miss Julia Voth As Jill, Man
Fans are thirsty for Ganon, we get a better look at Final Fantasy XVI, and Resident Evil 4 Remake sneaks in some microtransactions.
― Great to see you back, guys! I was delighted last week with the reactions to the Breath of Fire discussion! There were a lot more fans of Dragon Quarter than I expected to see. Remember, I'm always open to discussing matters you want to bring to my attention! I can't p...
This Week in Anime - Why You Should Watch the Kaguya-sama Movie
Steve and Chris tune in to The First Kiss That Never Ends and discuss the painfully relatable moments of teen love and the masks we all wear in our lives.
― Sure, maybe it's just a glorified mini-episode arc and not really a "film," but we'll take more Kaguya-sama however we can get it. Steve and Chris tune in to The First Kiss That Never Ends and discuss the painfully relatable moments of teen love...
The ANN Aftershow - What Spring Anime Should We Watch?
Lynzee and James marathoned their way through the Spring Anime premieres, so you don't have to! Plus: the Mario movie has made a boatload of cash!
― What Spring Anime Should We Watch? Lynzee and James marathoned their way through the Spring Anime premieres, so you don't have to! Plus: the Mario movie has made a boatload of cash! The ANN After Show streams live on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter Space...
This Week in Games - I Didn't Plan For This Much Capcom, It Just Happened
From Breath of Fire's 30th anniversary to Resident 4 fandom shenanigans and Legendary acquiring Street Fighter adaptation rights, this week has coincidentally featured a lot of Capcom news. Jean-Karlo delves into it.
― Welcome back, everyone! I don't actually have much to ease folks into this week. I was working on a review for Melon Journey: Bittersweet Memories, so no Xenoblade this time. We're wor...
This Week in Anime - Gacha Money Now
Don't you hate it when your favorite mobile game goes kaput? Chris and Steve look at the current gacha game landscape, its questionable game mechanics, and the bitter feelings left in their wake.
― These movies are available to purchase on Blu-ray and are streaming on digital platforms, including Crunchyroll, HBO Max, and Amazon Prime Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants ...
This Week in Games - Aren't You Tired Of Being The Hero Of The Wilds? Don't You Just Want To Go Ape-Mode?
Jean-Karlo gets hyped for the upcoming Zelda release, discusses Congress' foray into the Sony-Microsoft spat, and spotlights game preservation efforts after the shuttering of the 3DS store.
― Welcome back, everyone! It looks like we're all having fun with the Resident Evil 4 remake! I must be honest; I didn't think Capcom could pull it off—but they did. It's entirely debatable and ultimately down to ...
This Week in Anime - Can Makoto Shinkai Only Make One Movie?
Director Makoto Shinkai reached worldwide recognition with his film your name., one of the biggest box office successes in Japan's history. With his new movie Suzume on the horizon, Nick and Nicky discuss the director's thematic fixations.
― Director Makoto Shinkai reached worldwide recognition with his film your name., one of the biggest box office successes in Japan's history. With his new movie S...
The ANN Aftershow - Trigun Stampede's Dimension-Shattering Finale!
Studio Orange's reimagining of Trigun comes to a close but this isn't the end of Vash's story! PLUS a rundown of someone of the biggest anime news from AnimeJapan!
― Trigun Stampede's Dimension-Shattering Finale! Studio Orange's reimagining of Trigun comes to a close but this isn't the end of Vash's story! PLUS a rundown of someone of the biggest anime news from AnimeJapan! The ANN After Show stream...
This Week in Anime - How Inu-Oh Perfectly Captures Masaaki Yuasa's Work
Masaaki Yuasa's latest anime film is the beautiful culmination of his artistic career. Steve and Chris discuss the film's approach to art (and art criticism) and what it means to a transgressive creator.
― Masaaki Yuasa's latest (and possibly last) anime film is a culmination of his artistic career. Steve and Chris discuss the film's approach to art (and art criticism) and what it means to a transgr...
This Week in Games - A Farewell To Legs
We might be saying goodbye to Ryza as a game protagonist, but she'll be back in her own anime! Also, some good news for a well-known Resident Evil modder and the push for a new American McGee's Alice game.
― Welcome back, everyone! It's been an emotional week. Between the death of Lance Reddick, whose presence in Destiny 2 was beloved by many of its fans, and the release of Atelier Ryza 3, we've had ...
This Week in Anime - Is There More to Onimai Than Fanservice?
Onimai might have had a controversial first episode, but it's a surprisingly sweet and nuanced story at heart. Steve and Chris give the series a second look.
― Onimai might have had a controversial first episode, but it's a surprisingly sweet and nuanced story at heart. Steve and Chris give the series a second look. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed...
This Week in Anime - Which Recent Anime Announcements Are Most Hype-Worthy?
What's the most exciting new anime announcement? And what's the guarantee that your favorite series will get a good adaptation—or any adaptation at all?
― What's the most exciting new anime announcement? And what's the guarantee that your favorite series will get a good adaptation—or any adaptation at all? Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the v...
This Week in Games - Pikachu Didn't Like That
Jean-Karlo weighs in on The Pokémon Company International's job listing related to Web3, a slimy new beat-'em-up straight from the '80s, and a new entry in the Touhou Project universe!
― Welcome back, everyone! It's been seven, and we've had some fun behind the scenes in this neck of the woods. Not only have we been able to get cracking on some fun projects I'm sure you guys will enjoy reading about ...
This Week in Anime - Does Gen Urobuchi's Name Mean Anything Anymore?
Madoka Magica and Psycho-Pass creator Gen Urobuchi's name was synonymous with a certain quality of anime, bu fan expectations became diluted and his name is no longer synonymous with mature, pathos-driven, subversions. What happened?
―
Once upon a time, Gen Urobuchi's name was synonymous with a certain quality of anime. He penned series like Madoka Magica and Psycho-Pass to great acclaim. In the fol...
The ANN Aftershow - What If Knives is Right?
This week's ANN Aftershow returns to Trigun Stampede as we approach the season finale and it's a no-holds-barred philosophical match!
― What If Knives is Right? This week's ANN Aftershow returns to Trigun Stampede as we approach the season finale and it's a no-holds-barred philosophical match! Is pacifist Vash right that the sentient plants should be returned to humans as a power source is it our vi...
This Week in Anime - Hey, Yoko Taro, What's With All the Puppets?
Steve and Nicky take on the impossible task of trying to decipher what exactly is going on in the NieR creator's moon-sized head and his fascination with puppets.
― Steve and Nicky take on the impossible task of trying to decipher what exactly is going on in the NieR creator's moon-sized head and his fascination with puppets. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this c...
This Week in Games - Welcome To The Next Saiyan Level
It's Ángel's birthday, so Jean-Karlo takes the opportunity to gush about the beloved KOF character and SNK games' unique history in Mexico. Also, Twitch cracks down on deepfakes, Dragon Ball Z: Budokai Tenkaichi returns and more in This Week in Games!
― Welcome back, everyone! I hope you're looking forward to starting your weekend with some game news! I could definitely use a break, I had a very busy...
This Week in Anime - And the Award for Best Anime Awards Goes To...
Beyond arguing about whether your fave made it in, what's the point of anime awards? Chris and Nicky discuss the pros of the various fan and industry awards ceremonies.
― Beyond arguing about whether your fave made it in, what's the point of anime awards? Chris and Nicky discuss the pros of the various fan and industry awards ceremonies. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participan...
This Week in Anime - The Cutthroat World of Shonen Jump Manga
Steve and Nick try to parse what makes for a winning formula in the highly competitive manga magazine, if such a thing even exists.
― If you're an avid Shonen Jump reader, you've likely experienced the heartache of your favorite series getting tossed in the bin. Steve and Nick try to parse what makes for a winning formula in the highly competitive magazine, if such a thing even exists. These manga a...
This Week in Games - If 'JRPG' is a Dirty Word, It's America's Fault
In a recent interview, Final Fantasy XVI producer Naoki Yoshida shared his distaste for the term "JRPG" and he has a good reason: the American game industry has mocked it for decades.
― Welcome back, everyone! We've had a heavy week behind the scenes; a number of time-sensitive projects have kept us from Xenoblade Chronicles 3. I wish I could say I was busy because I was breaking in my PS5 with Drago...
Answerman - What Kind of Content Restrictions Does Shonen Jump Impose?
Kim discusses the Youth Ordinance Bill and how a series of heinous crimes forever changed the popular manga magazine.
― Kyle asked:
With American TV and comics for kids, there's a pretty strict standards and practices, but it seems very lax in Japan. I've heard stories about PTA getting upset over anime and manga in the past, but I was wondering, typically for, say, something like Shonen Jump, what ...
This Week in Anime - What is the Heart of Trigun Stampede?
This streamlined retelling of Yasuhiro Nightow's manga and the '98 anime series veers into uncharted territory. One thing remains the same though: Vash is the emotional core.
―
This streamlined retelling of Yasuhiro Nightow's manga and the '98 anime series veers into uncharted territory. One thing remains the same though: Vash is the emotional core. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll and Netfli...
The ANN Aftershow - More Like "Hash the Stampede," Amirite?
We're diving right into Vash and Knive's backstory this week! Also this week in Buddy Daddies, Rei has to choose between allegiance to his birth family and his chosen family. Plus all the anime news that you need, right here!
― More Like "Hash the Stampede," Amirite? We're diving right into Vash and Knive's backstory this week after the big reveal that Vash can communicate with plants! Also this wee...
This Week in Anime - Does Buddy Daddies Live Up To Its Zany Title?
More than just a SPY x FAMILY lookalike. Nicky and Steve break down the appeal of this anime about the challenges of parenting while being a mobster.
― More than just a Spy x Family lookalike. Nicky and Steve break down the appeal of this anime about the challenges of parenting while being a mobster. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the particip...
This Week in Games - We Finally Arrived At The Sony Factory
Lots of Sony news this week, with a State of Play, classic JRPG additions to PlayStation Plus, and more! Also, our columnist finally has a PlayStation 5 now.
― Welcome back! I hope you guys had a great week! Progress was halted on Xenoblade this week because of a number of projects that came my way. We also had a freak snowstorm in my city! Being from the tropics, snow and hail amuse me, even though ...
This Week in Anime - Aggretsuko Goes Full Politics in Its Final Season
Aggretsuko has always been about the anxieties of our generation, but it's never articulated these frustrations as clearly as it does here. It's focused on Japan, but these issues and arguments hit home here in bootstraps-poisoned America too.
― Who thought a streaming series about a Sanrio mascot would use its last hurrah to stick it to Japan's aging political party? This series is streaming on Net...
The ANN Aftershow - Vash's True Origins Are Revealed!
Trigun Stampede's seventh episode, "Wolfwood," puts the characters in a tight stop as they hurry to stop a runaway sandship from crashing into an orphanage.
― Vash's True Origins Are Revealed! Trigun Stampede's seventh episode, "Wolfwood," puts the characters in a tight stop as they hurry to stop a runaway sandship from crashing into an orphanage. In order to save countless lives, Vash heads to the ...
The Mike Toole Show - A Leijiverse of Possibilities
Following the recent passing of Leiji Matsumoto, we're revisiting this write-up by Mike Toole about the creator's pivotal anime and manga.
― Obviously, I'm going to putting manga and anime maestro Leiji Matsumoto under the microscope this week. But before I do that, I'll point out that just a week ago, I was at Anime North in Toronto, which was my first time experiencing an anime convention outside o...
This Week in Anime - Does BOFURI Season 2 Keep Up the Charm?
The first season of BOFURI was an unexpected, charming surprise among VRMMORPG anime. Does the second season keep up the quality?
― The first season of BOFURI was an unexpected, charming surprise among VRMMORPG anime. Does the second season keep up the quality? This series is streaming on Crunchyroll Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views o...
This Week in Games - You Go, Big Guy!
A popular VTuber gets a break in the latest Yakuza-related title, you can get a chance to clean up after Shinra's latest environmental disaster, and more gaming news in This Week in Games!
― Welcome back, everyone! We had a busy week this past week; we had a review for EA and Koei Tecmo's Wild Hearts go up earlier this week. Feel free to check it out! Sadly, it definitely got in the way of me being a...
This Week in Anime - Is Nagatoro's Second Season Actually...Wholesome?
Nagatoro and Senpai are basically a couple at this point and the playing field has evened out. Their relationship is practically...pure now. Well, almost.
― Nagatoro and Senpai are basically a couple at this point and the playing field has evened out. Their relationship is practically...pure now. Well, almost. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by t...
The ANN Aftershow - The Best Episode of Trigun Stampede Yet!
Trigun Stampede episode six is the best in the series yet, with amazing animation and a heart-wrenching backstory for Wolfwood.
― The Best Episode of Trigun Stampede Yet! Trigun Stampede episode six is the best in the series yet, with amazing animation and a heart-wrenching backstory for Wolfwood. Also, this week we'll discuss all those recent anime delays this season, the Pluto anime, and what make...
This Week in Anime - Is Tomo-chan is a Girl! a Perfect Rom-Com?
Steve and Nicky check out this season's stand-out romantic comedy starring an athletic girl and her oblivious jock crush. Is this a new romantic comedy to add to your queue or are the characters just too frustrating?
― Steve and Nicky check out this season's stand-out romantic comedy starring an athletic girl and her oblivious jock crush. Is this a new romantic comedy to add to your queue or are the...
This Week in Games - The First Nintendo Direct of 2023
Jean-Karlo breaks down the biggest announcements from this week's Nintendo Direct, including new Pikmin, Metroid, and Splatoon news. PLUS: a look at the Final Fantasy X kabuki play!
― Welcome back, everyone! Whole lotta disappointing news out there. Worst of all, I couldn't even play much Xenoblade 3, but that's because we have some coverage planned for an upcoming title. Look forward to it sometime ...
Answerman - What Happened to the Next Episode Previews?
They used to be a staple each week to get fans excited for the next episode. Are they not needed anymore?
― Chris asked:
What has happened to the next episode preview? Growing up on anime in the 90's and early 2000's every show had a roughly 30 second preview after the end credits made of clips from the next week's episode often accompanied by voice over narration. Now it seems most shows end withou...
This Week in Anime - Why Vinland Saga's New Season is Even Better
The second season of Vinland Saga is shaping up to be appointment viewing with the return of Thorfinn and Einar try to survive a system created to break them down while King Canute has no qualms about burning everything down.
― The second season of Vinland Saga is shaping up to be appointment viewing with the return of Thorfinn and Einar try to survive a system created to break them down while King ...
The ANN Aftershow - Trigun Stampede Tackles Religion
Vash and the crew head to a new location where Vash's past is once again back to bite him.
― Trigun Stampede Tackles Religion Vash and the crew head to a new location where Vash's past is once again back to bite him. In a town where children are sacrificed to a god, Vash made the daring promise to save one boy...and failed. Also, let's check in on our favorite assassin duo with Buddy Daddies! This w...
This Week in Anime - A Toast to Bartender
The cult-classic series is now streaming on Crunchyroll! Pull up a stool and let Ryu Sasakura make you the exact cocktail you need.
― The cult-classic series is now streaming on Crunchyroll! Pull up a stool and let Ryu Sasakura make you the exact cocktail you need. This series is streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the vi...
This Week in Games - E3, I barely knew ye
What was once the go-to event for new games and consoles looks like it's lost its fandom relevancy. Jean-Karlo breaks down the recent news, including new game announcements!
― Welcome back, everyone! I hope that freak freeze billowing over the country doesn't have you guys trapped. I know folks have really been feeling the ice down in Texas. Even in my town, it's viciously cold in the mornings; there...
This Week in Anime - The Deer King's Beating Heart
The latest film from Ghibli alumni directors shares some themes with Princess Mononoke but proves it has the heart to stand on its own.
― The latest film from Ghibli alumni directors shares some themes with Princess Mononoke but proves it has the heart to stand on its own. This movie is streaming on Hulu Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the vie...
The ANN Aftershow - Wolfwood Joins Trigun Stampede!
The ANN Aftershow hosts sexy dirtbag Wolfwood, whether E3 matters anymore, and our favorite Sailor Guardians this week!
― Wolfwood Joins Trigun Stampede! The ANN Aftershow is back after a one-week break, and what's a better reward than WOLFWOOD? One of anime's original crushes has a brand-new look in the latest episode of Trigun Stampede! Also: we pick our favorite Sailor Guardians before the new mo...
This Week in Anime - Don't Sleep on The Ancient Magus' Bride OVAs
The Ancient Magus' Bride season 2 is still a ways off, but there are OVAs to tide us over. Nick and Steve are here to tell you why you shouldn't overlook these side story episodes.
― The Ancient Magus' Bride season 2 is still a ways off, but there are OVAs to tide us over. Nick and Steve are here to tell you why you shouldn't overlook these side story episodes. This series is streaming on Crunchyrol...
This Week in Games - It Feels Like 2008 All Over Again
Jean-Karlo dives into the recent rumor of a "lost" Fire Emblem game, why Hi-Fi Rush isn't the Jet Set Radio successor he wants, and how AI helped botch the Persona 3 Portable remaster.
― Hello, everyone! Here we are again, on the verge of the weekend. We've got tons of fun stuff to talk about this week! The year is starting to kick in with plenty of awesome stuff to discuss. Unfortunately, not all of...
Answerman - What's With All the Delayed Aniplex Shows?
Kim explains how it's not just COVID, but shortcomings of the industry itself, that led to three anime productions' schedule crashes.
― This time, we interrupt the regular reader-submitted questions with some “behind the headlines” analysis. Kim asked:
Three Aniplex shows—NieR:Automata Ver 1.1a, UniteUp!, and Ayakashi Triangle—have recently announced delays due to COVID-19. Is COVID actually a probl...
This Week in Anime - Junji Ito's Content Mill of Horrors
A name like Junji Ito deserves a worthwhile anime adaptation. Yet here we are with another installment from Studio DEEN. Did you watch Junji Ito "Collection"? It's more of that, which is to say, a muddy-looking series of stories that fail to scare.
― A name like Junji Ito deserves a worthwhile anime adaptation. Yet here we are with another installment from Studio DEEN. Did you watch Junji Ito "Colle...
This Week in Anime - School Jacket Lupin Makes a Daring Escape!
One of the newest Lupin iterations goes back in time to when our gentleman criminal was nothing more than a young lad. Don't let his look fool you; young Lupin is just as wily as his older iconic persona.
― One of the newest Lupin iterations goes back in time to when our gentleman criminal was nothing more than a young lad. Don't let his look fool you; young Lupin is just as wily as his older iconic...
This Week in Games - "We Have Odin Sphere and Final Fantasy Tactics At Home"
Dokapon Kingdom: Connect is coming back to ruin your friendships, Vanillaware's Sword of the Vagrant is coming stateside, and Jean-Karlo discusses the massive layoffs at Microsoft in This Week in Games!
― Hey, yeah, so Maximilian Dood described Vampire Survivors as "video game crack," and uh... he's not kidding. I feel like that bit in The Simpsons where Marge sits down and sips a glass of wine. ("I ...
Answerman - Why Do Some Anime Releases Have a "Content Japan" Logo On Them?
Kim explains this specific anti-piracy measure and how it came to be used.
― Taylor asked:
I keep seeing that Content Japan logo for a variety of releases outside Japan, no matter who the licensor or licensee is. From my current collection, I see it on Blue Exorcist, Clannad, Eureka Seven (Essentials release), IGPX, My Hero Academia (on some occasions), Promare, Spirited Away, and that's just some. ...
This Week in Anime - What the Hell is Going On In Summer Time Rendering?
Nick and Nicky try to decipher what is going on in this supernatural mystery series full of otherworldly entities, doppelgangers, and time travel!
― Nick and Nicky try to decipher what is going on in this supernatural mystery series full of otherworldly entities, doppelgangers, and time travel! These series is streaming on Hulu. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in thi...
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