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This Week in Anime - Scott Pilgrim Takes Off in a New Direction
Nick and Chris dive into the brand-new adaptation of the fan-favorite comic, although something is missing...where's Scott?
― Nick and Chris dive into the brand-new adaptation of the fan-favorite comic, although something is missing...where's Scott? Scott Pilgrim Takes Off is streaming on Netflix Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of An...
This Week in Games - Sega Wants More Adaptations And Tekken's New Blood
Sega's looking into taking Persona and Like a Dragon to the big and small screens. Tekken 8 gets its final new character with Reina.
― Congratulations fellow weeabo sailors, you've made it to the weekend. Let's round up some of this week's gaming news. This is... In an interview with CNBC, Sega chief operating officer Shuji Utsumi said that Sonic the Hedgehog's Hollywood movie success has the company...
This Week in Anime - Shigeru Mizuki
Halloween may have passed but that won't stop Nicky and Steve from taking a deep dive into the OG of horror manga, Shigeru Mizuki.
―
Halloween may have passed but that won't stop Nicky and Steve from taking a deep dive into the OG of horror manga, Shigeru Mizuki. Akuma Kun (2023) is available through Netflix, GeGeGe no Kitarō (2018) is available through Crunchyroll, NONONBA and Onwards Towards Our N...
This Week in Anime - 100 Girlfriends Is The Endgame Of Harem Anime
Chris and Nick find the true meaning of a harem anime: choosing all the girls instead of one.
― Chris and Nick find the true meaning of a harem anime: choosing all the girls instead of one. All the series mentioned in this column are streaming on Crunchyroll Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for di...
This Week in Anime - Key, The Landmark Visual Novel Studio
The visual novel studio Key created some of the most heartwrenching stories adapted to anime. Christopher and Steve look back on CLANNAD, Kanon, Planetarian, and more to see if the emotional beats are still devastating.
― The visual novel studio Key created some of the most heartwrenching stories adapted to anime. Christopher and Steve look back on CLANNAD, Kanon, Planetarian, and more to see if the...
The ANN Aftershow - The Attack on Titan Ending Explained
What made this ending so divisive, and what does it mean for all the characters? A decade later, we say goodbye to Attack on Titan.
― The Attack on Titan Ending Explained The monumental anime series finally comes to an end, and Eren's fate is sealed. What made this ending so divisive, and what does it mean for all the characters? A decade later, we say goodbye to Attack on Titan. The ANN After Show ...
This Week in Anime - It's the Anime Rap Battle of the Century!!
Do rap sequences in anime hold a sincere appreciation for the art form? Nick and Nicky look at two rap-focused anime and the musical genre in series over the years.
― Do rap sequences in anime hold a sincere appreciation for the art form? Nick and Nicky look at two rap-focused anime and the musical genre in series over the years. HYPNOSIS MIC, Paradox Live The Animation, Kaguya-sama: Love is War -Ul...
This Week in Games - Wouldn't That Be Level-5 Five Times Over?
Jean-Karlo looks back on 25 years of Level-5 games, plus a new customer-unfriendly move from GameStop and the gacha games that's putting its players into gem debt.
― Welcome back, folks! It seems like my easygoing weekends are ending; I've got a game I'm working on at the moment. Look forward to that review sometime next week! For now, I hope you've checked out my colleague Kennedy's column on the .h...
This Week in Anime - PLUTO is a Masterclass in Anime Reimaginings
Chris and Steve dive into Naoki Urasawa and Studio M2's Pluto anime and discuss why "aging up" a property intended for children can be a perfect sandbox for broader commentary.
― Chris and Steve dive into Naoki Urasawa and Studio M2's Pluto anime and discuss why "aging up" a property intended for children can be a perfect sandbox for broader commentary. The anime discussed in this column are streami...
This Week in Anime - Halloween Anime Spooktacular
Happy Halloween, anime fans! We have a special TWIA on this extra spooky Tuesday. Nick and Nicky discuss their favorite horror series and compare notes on which anime monsters are perfect for the season.
― Happy Halloween, anime fans! We have a special TWIA on this extra spooky Tuesday. Nick and Nicky discuss their favorite horror series and compare notes on which anime monsters are perfect for the ...
This Week in Games - Special Feature: First Look At One Punch Man World Closed Beta
Jean-Karlo explores the super-powered world of the newest One Punch Man mobile game and it's surprisingly good! Plus, hints about .hack, a Muv-Luv port, revamped Metal Gear and more!
― Welcome back, folks! It seems like last week's dual releases for Sonic Superstars and Super Mario Wonder really brought up the old Sonic/Mario rivalry... but as a Sega fan, it seems like Mario won this one? Not that So...
This Week in Anime - Director Masaomi Andō, from School-Live! to SHY
Director Masaomi Andō (SHY) has quietly created some of the best series in the last decade. Steve and Nicky look back at his past work to see how he utilizes different tricks to create engaging entertainment.
― Director Masaomi Andō has quietly created some of the best series in the last decade. His latest outing is SHY, a superhero action series starring a hero with overwhelming anxiety. Steve and ...
The ANN Aftershow - Is the Jujutsu Kaisen Shibuya Incident Arc...Good?
Lynzee and James catch back up on the subway battle for Gojo in Jujutsu Kaisen, but is it living up to the hype?
― Is the Jujutsu Kaisen Shibuya Incident Arc...Good? Lynzee and James catch back up on the subway battle for Gojo in Jujutsu Kaisen, but is it living up to the hype? Plus, our immortal elf continues on her quest to discover what it means to live in Frieren! The ANN After Show streams live...
This Week in Anime - Mecha Anime You May Have Missed
It's always Gundam this and Macross that, but what about those ready to enter a new mecha-verse? There's more to giant robots than decades-spanning franchises. Nick and Chris uncover some mecha anime you may have missed.
― It's always Gundam this and Macross that, but what about those ready to enter a new mecha-verse? There's more to giant robots than decades-spanning franchises. Nick and Chris unco...
This Week in Games - Trust The Fungus. Touch The Fungus.
Nostalgia wave hits us this week with Gigabash x Ultraman collab, Super Mario Bros. Movie 30th anniversary, and Touch Detective coming back to the US!
― Welcome back, folks! So, uh, confession time: I had forgotten all about the Portland Retro Gaming Expo being last week. (I tunnel vision badly.) Last Friday, I even considered going on a lark to visit the Retronauts booth... but then I remembered tha...
This Week in Anime -Narou-ing Down Your Anime Watchlist
This season is bigger than ever, but surprisingly, there isn't much isekai to sift through. Instead, Nick and Steve look at web novel adaptations and which are worth your time.
― During the last few anime seasons, TWIA alums have taken up the mantle to wade through the seasonal isekai to find the cream of the crop. This season is bigger than ever, but surprisingly, there isn't much isekai to sift th...
This Week in Anime - What's the Deal with Extra-Long Anime Premieres?
Chris and Nicky examine the recent spat of feature-length anime premieres, whether the story calls for it, or if it's all in pursuit of the elusive "prestige" designation.
― Chris and Nicky examine the recent spat of feature-length anime premieres, whether the story calls for it, or if it's all in pursuit of the elusive "prestige" designation. This series is streaming on Netflix, Crunchyroll, and ot...
This Week in Games - Slim Pickings
Among the delight of anticipating the Izuna sequel, Lego Isabelle, Silent Hill: Ascension, and Gungrave G.O.R.E.'s Switch port, there is a questionable new PS5 Slim.
― Welcome back, everyone! Great news: I finally got to play Xenoblade Chronicles 3 for once this past weekend! It's nice to have spare time. The game is still introducing some phenomenal characters (even if I'm tilting my head a little a...
This Week in Games - Not So Epic
Layoffs continue in the gaming industry, and the creator of Hatoful Boyfriend reveals he's been stiffed by Epic on his royalties. Plus, new Digimon devices and Square Enix goes all in on its "Cait Sith" pronunciation.
― Welcome back, folks! We picked up on some cool news over the weekend—Bandai Japan is making a new series of Digimon virtual pets: a reissue of the Digital Monster Pendulum toys, modif...
The ANN Aftershow - The Best Fall Anime Premieres So Far...
We're in the midst of one of the biggest anime seasons yet! What anime premieres are must-watch worthy and which are clunkers?
― The Best Fall Anime Premieres So Far... We're in the midst of one of the biggest anime seasons yet! What anime premieres are must-watch worthy and which are clunkers? The ANN After Show streams live on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter Spaces on Tuesdays at 6pm PT/9pm ET. You...
This Week in Anime - We Love Boys' Love
In celebration of the Sasaki and Miyano film, Chris and Nicky share their favorite BL series and why the genre is for everyone.
― In celebration of the Sasaki and Miyano film, Chris and Nicky share their favorite BL series and why the genre is for everyone. You can watch the series and movies mentioned here on Crunchyroll (Sasaki and Miyano, Junjo Romantica, Classmates, The Stranger by the Shore, Gi...
This Week in Games - Big Names, Big Departures
It's a week of shake-ups in the gaming industry as Platinum Games and Sony see off Hideki Kamiya and Jim Ryan. Plus: CAPCOM president Haruhiro Tsujimoto thinks games are due for another price hike.
― Once again, I'd like to thank my readers who thought of me amidst the Izuna news last week. I appreciate being thought of like that. I like it when friends think of me when they see stuff they know I lik...
This Week in Anime - What Crunchyroll Purchasing RightStuf Means To Us
The changeover is finally happening. One of the community's long-standing favorite online shops will become "The Crunchyroll Store" next month. Nick and Steve reflect on the change and what it might herald for the anime community at large.
― The changeover is finally happening. One of the community's long-standing favorite online shops will become "The Crunchyroll Store" next month. Nick and Steve r...
This Week in Games - VIDEO GAME DREAMS DO COME TRUE
It's an extra big TWIG this week as Jean-Karlo discusses exciting developments in the retro game scene: Wizardry, Cotton 2, and the unexpected return of his personal favorite ninja, Izuna!
― Welcome back, folks! I must say, Thousand-Year Door fans wasted no time sticking true to form in the week-and-change since Nintendo announced the remake. Between concerns over the 30fps framerate or bellyaching a...
This Week in Anime - Osamu Tezuka Anime Through Time
Nick and Nicky check out the newest take on legendary manga creator Osamu Tezuka's Phoenix and take time to reflect the many iterations of his work through the years.
― Nick and Nicky check out the newest take on legendary manga creator Osamu Tezuka's Phoenix and take time to reflect the many iterations of his work through the years. You can watch the Tezuka series mentioned here on Hulu/Disney+ (Ph...
The ANN Aftershow - Jujutsu Kaisen's Shibuya Throwdown!
The series' biggest battle is underway and Itadori is fighting...a bug? Zom 100 is back with a new episode, so let's check in on Akira and see if he's still human.
― Jujutsu Kaisen's Shibuya Throwdown! The series' biggest battle is underway and Itadori is fighting...a bug? Zom 100 is back with a new episode, so let's check in on Akira and see if he's still human. All this and more anime hot takes, s...
This Week in Anime - The Legacy of Buichi Terasawa
Join Chris and Steve as they dive into Space Adventure Cobra, Goku Midnight Eye, and other Terasawa's works that made him one of the legends in the industry.
― The anime and manga world lost yet another legend with the recent passing of Buichi Terasawa, the author behind the iconic 1978 manga series Space Adventure Cobra. Join Chris and Steve this week as they dive into Terasawa's works that made hi...
This Week in Games - The Game Industry Uniting Against Bad Decisions
Japan sets a precedent for Let's Play content, and Unity just pissed off the sleeping dragons that are The Pokémon Company, Disney, Activision-Blizzard, and China. Plus: the announcements from Nintendo Direct and Sony's State of Play.
― Welcome back, everyone! Y'know, I thought this would be a pretty calm week; I hadn't had a game assigned to me, and it didn't seem like there would be any big announc...
The ANN Aftershow - Attack on Titan the Final Season THE FINAL CHAPTERS Special 2 is a real anime
We've got a release date for the last installment of the Attack on Titan anime and it's only taken 10 years! Plus, Miyazaki might be 82 years old, but he's still not ready to hang up his director's hat.
― Attack on Titan the Final Season THE FINAL CHAPTERS Special 2 is a real anime We've got a release date for the last installment of the Attack on Titan anime and it's only taken 10 years! Plus, Miya...
This Week in Anime - The Dynamic Direction of Mamoru Hatakeyama
Mamoru Hatakeyama, the director of Undead Murder Farce has a career as colorful as the anime. Steve and Chris invite us to take a look at his other amazing and stylish works.
― Mamoru Hatakeyama, the director of Undead Murder Farce has a career as colorful as the anime. Steve and Chris invite us to take a look at his other amazing and stylish works. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by th...
This Week in Anime - Do You Have Pokémon Nostalgia?
Ready to bid farewell to Ash Ketchum and his timeless adventures? Not quite? We get you. Join Nick and Nicky this week as they explore the 25-year legacy of Pokémon before the start of a new era.
― Ready to bid farewell to Ash Ketchum and his timeless adventures? Not quite? We get you. Join Nick and Nicky this week as they explore the 25-year legacy of Pokémon before the start of a new era. Disclaim...
The ANN Aftershow - The Jujutsu Kaisen Anime is Finally Back!
After a dry August, we're finally back with new episodes of Jujutsu Kaisen. Yūji Itadori just might get a girlfriend and Geto is there...wait, Geto?!
― The Jujutsu Kaisen Anime is Finally Back! After a dry August, we're finally back with new episodes of Jujutsu Kaisen. Yūji Itadori just might get a girlfriend and Geto is there...wait, Geto?! The ANN After Show streams live on YouTube, Facebook, and ...
This Week in Games - There Is No Joke, Just Treat Game Developers Better
SAG-AFTRA eyes a strike on the video game industry to get the same wage increases for video game performers as for those who work under the film and television contracts. Plus updates on Nikke/Nier, Zelda DLC, and more!
― Welcome back, everyone! As you might have seen, my Rune Factory 3 Special review went up on Tuesday (and right after Laybuh Day). It's a fun game, definitely worth interrupting a Xe...
This Week in Anime - Why Is It So Hard to Make Anime Into Live-Action?
With live-action One Piece receiving favorable reviews from critics and fans alike, Nick and Steve look back and previous attempts to bridge the gap between anime and live-action in Hollywood...and why they didn't work.
― With live-action One Piece receiving favorable reviews from critics and fans alike, Nick and Steve look back and previous attempts to bridge the gap between anime and live-action i...
This Week in Anime - What is the Future of Anime and AI?
The AI wave reached anime shores a long time ago - will anime ever be the same again? Join Chris and Nicky this week in their discourse about anime and AI.
― The AI wave reached anime shores a long time ago - will anime ever be the same again? Join Chris and Nicky this week in their discourse about anime and AI. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not...
This Week in Games - Nintendo Presents: Super Mario Elephants
Plenty of news coming from every corner of the gaming industry this week ranging from a new character in Street Fighter 6 and free distribution of Cave Story to Nintendo Direct!
― Welcome back, everyone! With Autumn creeping ever closer, we're seeing the last of the big games getting released this summer. As you read this, my retrospective on the Armored Core series should be out by now. It's very gr...
This Week in Anime - Why You Should Just Buy the Anime Blu-rays
It's become increasingly common for anime and other media to disappear from streaming services, be it contractual reasons or a tax write-off. Steve and Nicky go over some of the pros for buying physical releases of your favorite anime series.
― It's become increasingly common for anime and other media to disappear from streaming services, be it contractual reasons or a tax write-off. Steve and Nicky...
The ANN Aftershow - Tips for a Happy (Anime) Marriage
Lynzee and James get caught up on the top anime drama of the season, My Happy Marriage. Does this supernatural period piece hold up or is it just misery for misery's sake?
― Tips for a Happy (Anime) Marriage Lynzee and James get caught up on the top anime drama of the season, My Happy Marriage. Does this supernatural period piece hold up or is it just misery for misery's sake? Plus, a new episode of...
This Week in Anime - Remember Magic High School Anime?
If the influx of isekai series every season has you fed up, take a deep breath and remember: it used to be magic high school anime instead.
― If the influx of isekai series every season has you fed up, take a deep breath and remember: it used to be magic high school anime instead. Chivalry of a Failed Knight is streaming on HIDIVE; all other series mentioned are streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer:...
This Week in Games - Thank You, Charles Martinet
Jean-Karlo delivers a send-off for long-time Mario voice, Charles Martinet. Plus, a new Nier collab, an update on Tekken 8, and PlayStation's answer to the Steam Deck.
― Welcome back, everyone! I don't know if it's because of summer ending or because our weird heatwave just ended, but it's getting comfortable again around these parts. No Xenoblade 3 has been achieved since I'm still working on a real...
This Week in Anime - When Your Fav Anime Protagonist is Problematic
Heroes who do bad things aren't new to anime, but when is a protagonist flawed and complex and when are they an irredeemable scumbag?
― Heroes who do bad things aren't new to anime, but when is a protagonist flawed and complex and when are they an irredeemable scumbag? These series are streaming on Netflix (Evangelion), HiDive (Girlish Number), and Crunchyroll (everything else). Macross is available...
This Week in Anime - When East Meets West: Can We Call This 'Anime'?
The age-old debate over whether certain animation is "anime" continues. Join Chris and Nicky this week as they navigate this ongoing discourse, exploring the evolving world of animation with series like Scott Pilgrim and Suicide Squad ISEKAI.
― The age-old debate over whether certain animations can be labeled "anime" continues. Join Chris and Nicky this week as they navigate this ongoing discourse, ...
The ANN Aftershow - 5 Things to Do Before the Zombie Apocalypse
We're back to talk about Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead with our own mini bucket lists! What five things do you want to do before becoming a zombie?
― 5 Things to Do Before the Zombie Apocalypse We're back to talk about Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead with our own mini bucket lists! What five things do you want to do before becoming a zombie? Plus, let's talk about that recent Mushoku Tensei epis...
The ANN Aftershow - What Anime to Watch Until Jujutsu Kaisen Comes Back
Jujutsu Kaisen is on a break until the end of the month and Zom 100 has hit production woes. What anime should you watch?
― What Anime to Watch Until Jujutsu Kaisen Comes Back Jujutsu Kaisen is on a break until the end of the month and Zom 100 has hit production woes. What anime should you watch? The ANN After Show streams live on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter Spaces on Fridays at 6pm PT/9pm ET. Yo...
This Week in Games - Cirno Is Stronger Than AI
The creator of Touhou Project gets real about AI in This Week in Games, plus The Pokémon Company considers slowing down its output, and a classic sim is getting a make-over!
― Welcome back, everyone! It finally happened: we hit triple-digit weather in my city. And it was rough. I know I'm always clamoring for the heat, but even back home, you didn't see a whole week of triple-digit weather. This stuf...
This Week in Anime - Is There a Double-Standard for Same-Sex Relationships in Anime?
Following the obfuscation of Miorine and Suletta's marriage in Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury, Nick and Nicky discuss canon vs. non-canon and why the barrier to acceptance seems higher for same-sex pairings.
― Following the obfuscation of Miorine and Suletta's marriage in Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury, Nick and Nicky discuss canon vs non-canon relationships and why the barri...
This Week in Anime - Idol Anime Spin-Offs and Crossovers
It's traversing the multiverse, but the anime idol version. Join Chris and Steve this week as they explore some of our beloved idol anime favorites, including spin-offs and crossovers.
― It's traversing the multiverse, but the anime idol version. Join Chris and Steve this week as they explore some of our beloved idol anime favorites, including spin-offs and crossovers. BanG Dream! It's MyGO!!!!!, Lo...
This Week in Games - Long, Long 'Mon~!
Gacha? In MY Atelier?! Jean-Karlo has all the updates on the new mainline entry, a giant wave of Pokémon-related news, and all those Street Fighter updates coming to a tournament near you!
― Welcome back, everyone! We had a busy weekend, so that's this week's excuse for not having played Xenoblade Chronicles 3 this past weekend. But that was also because we had to cover Rune Factory 3 Special! It's a...
This Week in Anime - Are Anime Production Delays the New Normal?
With the recent delays to Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead and the Nier anime's final episodes dropped unceremoniously late, Steve and Nicky look at production delays in the anime industry.
― With the recent delays to Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead and the Nier anime's final episodes dropped unceremoniously late, Steve and Nicky look at production delays in the anime industry. Disclaimer: The view...
This Week in Anime - The Rise and Evolution of Old Classic Dubs
The release of new dubs and adaptations has breathed new life into old classics like Digimon. Join Chris and Nick this week as they explore these classics and their recent makeover.
― The release of new dubs and adaptations has breathed new life into old classics like Digimon. Join Chris and Nick this week as they explore these classics and their recent makeover. These series are streaming on Hulu a...
This Week in Games - The Scions Discover Margaritaville
The newest Final Fantasy announcements are here from FanFest, plus a big change-up for Visual Arts and the latest on a spicy visual novel finally coming to America.
― Welcome back, everyone! We had one heck of a week this past week—after all, it was Xenoblade Chronicles 3's first anniversary! 遅れましたが「ゼノブレイド3」発売１周年おめでとうございます！Xenoblade3 1st anniversary congratulations! pic.twitter.com/Jb6bcKbH4i— 齋藤将嗣 (...
This Week in Anime - The Head-Spinning Mysteries in Undead Murder Farce
Kaguya-sama alum Mamoru Hatakeyama spins supernatural tales of intrigue, but the biggest boon of the series is the lead characters' chemistry.
― Kaguya-sama alum Mamoru Hatakeyama spins supernatural tales of intrigue, but the biggest boon of the series is the lead characters' chemistry. Undead Murder Farce is streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants ...
The ANN Aftershow - Jujutsu Kaisen's Best Fight Scene So Far
The biggest, craziest Jujutsu Kaisen fight scene is here!
― Jujutsu Kaisen's Best Fight Scene So Far The biggest, craziest Jujutsu Kaisen fight scene is here! Gojo is practically mad with power, Geto is furious, and the two best friends are confronted with a moral dilemma. Plus Zom 100 introduces Akira's best friend and a host club fighting for their lives! Plus, all the new trailers from the Adult ...
This Week in Anime - Hideaki Anno's Reimagined Shin Japan Heroes Universe
After an illustrious career in animation, Hideaki Anno takes on tokusatsu with the Shin Japan Heroes Universe. Join Chris and Steve this week as they explore some of the franchise's work.
― After an illustrious career in animation, Hideaki Anno takes on tokusatsu with the Shin Japan Heroes Universe. Join Chris and Steve this week as they explore some of the franchise's work. Shin Ultraman, Shin Godz...
This Week in Games - Wetsuits Are Hot, Actually
Jean-Karlo dives into the fanservice fiasco at Limbus Company that led to an artist losing their job, the double standard in celebrating gay rep in Final Fantasy XVI, and more Zelda games!
― Welcome back! Last week, I informed folks I was trying to assemble my new PC. The good news is, I managed it! It took me two days, but I pulled it off. The bad news was, there was a snag—the H100i LCD water coole...
This Week in Anime - Slam Dunk: Scoring Big on Basketball and Comedy
This week, we take another trip down memory lane to explore one of the 90's cult classics: Slam Dunk. Join Nick and Steve this week as they dive into some of the anime's iconic moments.
― This week, we take another trip down memory lane to explore one of the 90's cult classics: Slam Dunk. Join Nick and Steve this week as they dive into some of the anime's iconic moments of comedy, teamwork—and one m...
This Week in Anime - Navigating Anime Conventions
Anime conventions like Anime Expo and FanimeCon are the perfect place for anime enthusiasts from all walks of life to mingle and gather. Join Chris and Nicky this week as they share their adventures and experiences at these conventions.
― Anime conventions like Anime Expo and FanimeCon are the perfect place for anime enthusiasts from all walks of life to mingle and gather. Join Chris and Nicky this ...
The ANN Aftershow - Jujutsu Kaisen's Shocking Cliff-Hanger!
Excuse me, how do you end an episode like that?! James and Lynzee discuss the newest episode of Jujutsu Kaisen season two's amazing animation, fight scenes, and cliffhanger!
― Jujutsu Kaisen's Shocking Cliff-Hanger! Excuse me, how do you end an episode like that?! James and Lynzee discuss the newest episode of Jujutsu Kaisen season two's amazing animation, fight scenes, and cliffhanger! Plus, there'...
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...
This Week in Anime - Throw Hands with GoHands
Nick and Chris take a deeper look at studio GoHands' anime output and try to figure out why all of their shows look like that.
― Nick and Chris take a deeper look at studio GoHands' anime output and try to figure out why all of their shows look like that. These series are streaming on Crunchyroll. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of A...
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...
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