The Punisher: No Mercy on PlayStation Network

(Also published on The Examiner)
The Punisher: No Mercy is a first-person shooter to be played on the PlayStation 3. The cost, about $10, the hook, it’s downloadable. For quite a few years the downloadable space consisted of puzzle games, add-ons and just smaller apps. Now gamers are seeing the evolution of downloadable content thanks to better connection speeds and the desire of publishers not to spend on physical disc productions. For ten bucks, roughly two rentals, gamers get a pretty robust shooter with a great FPS license attached in The Punisher. Marvel heroes have had a mixed bag when it comes to games and this release is a low risk approach that works. No shipping, production, shelf space cost, no worries about the mature content (which Wal-Mart for example tends not to carry) or the shoddy past of Punisher games. This is right there in digital format for gamers for an easy price. The trailer below shows off what seems to be a fairly engaging FPS built on the Unreal Engine 3 this title is offering up some fun multi-player that again does not take a $60+ commitment from gamers and their buddies. There is single-player also but let’s take a look back at the point we started with.

Gamers are now getting full, downloadable, less expensive gamers to play online with their buddies or alone that are not some schlock from the backend of big name publishers. This is the beginning of something truly special for gamers so take a look at The Punisher: No Mercy, download if desired and enjoy where the gaming landscape is headed.

The Punisher: No Mercy - PSN Trailer

Evangelion 1.0: You Are (Not) Alone Trailer

Many times when watching an older, from the 90’s, anime I wonder what it would be like if recreated today. Dragon Ball Z for example looks mega sharp in video game form now but the older episodes just don’t’ hold up. Gundam is another great example with the new Seed series vs. the original look and feel. Animation quality changes and it impacts how our beloved series look. Robotech and Transformers come to mind also. For me Evangelion was always one of these series, but no longer. The story of Tokyo-3, NERV, Shinji and the Eva’s is about to get an outstanding makeover in Evangelion 1.0: You Are (Not) Alone. The trailer is hot and shows off the points I mention above. This series is getting revamped in a great way. The voice work is very familiar but the animation is rock solid with tweaks to the Angels, looks sooooooo good. Anime fans should be very familiar with the series but now noobs can get on board with one of the best anime of all time and hopefully they get to avoid the sad sack original ending (Death and Rebirth was solid). So check out the trailer on Apple and check back with FUNimation for more detail. This is going to be so money!

Hayate Cross Blade vol.3 Impression

Shizuru Hayashiya has created a very fun and enjoyable series in Hayate Cross Blade but in volume 3 there is a deep Keeling of been there, done that which just nags this manga fan. Hayate is still a fine series but keeping it fresh in a combat manga where one moves up the ranks is not an easy task. No doubts that the series will keep moving ahead, it is very popular, but why did it hit a snag, lets see.

Ayana and Hayate continue to move up the ranks and its time for another battle as the duo must take on Ayana’s roommate Kuga Jun and her ever sick sister-in-arms Shizuma Yuho. The history behind this rivalry is revealed and no quarter is given as Ayana honors Kuga Jun with a worthy match.

Short synopsis, the same a what is says in the book but what else can I add. The story takes a familiar path with Ayana and Hayate facing an opponent with a grudge. There is history told followed by some intense fighting. Hayate’s humor continues and does not get old but most of the story revolves around history … again. The encounters with the yakuza girl’s mother is funny and what makes this series such a joy to read, but do we need to know every detail about every major opponent? Can’t a fight just happen with little to no talking at least once in a while? The girls are moving up the ranks and the fights look to get even crazier so we have that to look forward to as fans so if you feel as I do about volume 3, don’t fret too much. The excellent design really focus on the characters in volume 3, backgrounds are inconsequential and while the story hits a lull this beast of a manga will not remain slumbering for long.

Buso Renkin DVD Box Set 2 Impression

While feeling like a Bleach lite after its first DVD collection the second Buso Renkin DVD set from Viz distinguishers the series as unique and utterly enjoyable. How is this possible in a series that felt like just another action series, let’s count the ways with a quick look at the story. Oh, I do talk about some very cool points so don’t ruin it for yourself, just know the series gets really good and is totally worth the purchase … its anime fun.

The battle with Victor begins as Kazuki himself undergoes his own transformation due to a black Kakugane. After the intense encounter and the departure of Victor the group decides to head to the beach for some fun in the sun and little do they realize the end of their normal lives. Seems that Kazuki’s new power comes with a price that has marked him for extermination by the same Captain Bravo he called a mentor. Dubbed Victor III, Kazuki is now the hunted and the extermination is put into motion. Tokiko and a new warrior named Gota decide to abandon their post and help Kazuki avoid the newly formed re-extermination squad and seek out a course of action to save Kazuki. The solution lies in Victor’s past with his not so dead wife and daughter. As history is explored Kazuki must not only battle the re-extermination squad but old foe Papillon and Victor one final time. As the battle with Victor shifts into high gear the Alchemist Warriors and the Great Warrior Chief must put in motion plans that call on friend and foe alike and the path to Kazuki’s fate are laid bare.

Hmmmm, ok so I really wanted to reveal the entire story but I’ve left out just enough so the ending will give the same feeling I had, a very pleased feeling. This series did feel very much like Bleach but that took a turn with Kazuki’s transformation, and no this is not a mirror of Ichigo’s inner hollow. There is a much deeper emotional connection in this second half of Buso Renkin as characters really begin to grow on the viewer, especially Kazuki in all his bravado and sacrifice. Even a character like Victor has a very sympathetic history. The ending surprised this anime vet and for that I must recommend it. Some series take a few episodes to hit their stride, it just took about 14 for Buso Renkin to hook me. The animation is actually a bit sub-par for such a short series. It has a feel of a longer series like DBZ or Naruto, good but not great, which is really not acceptable for a short run series. This may be reflective of the source manga but still could have been helped along in the animation process.

Overall, so-so anime aside if you are an anime fan, an action fan wanting a fun and exciting series that does not last for 50-100+ episodes then check out Buso Renkin. It shares a lot in common with the Bleach’s of the world which is a good thing. Hey, not everyone can marry the super model but they can take her less attractive little sister out for a few dates.

Ponyo Trailer & Art Book Impression

Legendary. This one word describes not only Hayao Miyazaki but his body of work with Studio Ghibli. In his latest movie, Ponyo, Miyazaki puts a different spin on the tale of The Little Mermaid. The tale of a fish who wishes to be with a little boy who was so kind to her looks as innocent as any Miyazaki tale. From the trailer the animation is so sharp and crisp one has to wonder why computer animation is so popular. This is the pinnacle of animation that will no doubt pull on any viewers heart strings ... and this is just how the trailer hits me. I've also been fortunate enough to get the official Viz Ponya art book which shows original concept art and really details how the film came to be. As an anime fan this is a must see and a must own once it hits on Blu-ray, but if you consider yourself a fan of film, of Oscar worthy pictures then Ponyo will be on your must see list. Check out the trailer then count the days till the films release.

Megan Fox Video Game Trailer

Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen - Megan Fox Video Game Trailer

She is easy on the eyes and not too bad with her voice either. Megan Fox takes on some voice work in Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen The Video Game. In this video, if you listen and don't just look, she chats about being involved in not just the movie but the game also. Can you guess who her favorite character to use is ...

NYX #1 Comic Impression

Written by Marjorie M. Liu, art by Kalman Andrasofszky, NYX follows a young mutant named Kiden Nixon. Published by Marvel Comics (CONFIRM), NYX takes on the tougher challenge presented to mutants, not foes and bad guys, but fitting in, living a normal life and avoiding being a target.

Kiden is one of the few, less than 200, mutants left on the planet, She has built a life for herself but how long will her normal existence remain? Living in a small apartment with three other mutants, Kiden does what she can to scrape by. Meeting rent is a challenge when the landlord targets just Kiden but even with these challenges life still moves on. A troubled past is slowly catching up with Kiden and what happened over the past 48 hours that’s put her into a very tight situation. Seems not all mutants get to face their foes in the form of a super villain, some must cope with a life as normal and you and I.

So the story synopsis is really quick as this is just the first issue of NYX. Readers can get the full series but looking at just this first issue a few things need to be chatted about. First up the art of Andrasofszky; it’s got a realism not seen in most Marvel titles. Minus the mutant thing this could be a story about a real ‘family’ facing real issues with real body types (no Jim Lee spandex heroes here). The art really touches on the writing of Liu. What is great about this story, in volume 1, is readers get to see a mutant that could be a real person. Kiden if very flawed, has a very dark and troubled past and seems like so many missing children. The story points are driven home by the NY settings and art style. A mutant who is scared to head back to school, who is just trying to make rent, this is a really well told story and the ending is just a great cliff hanger.

Overall the story and art mix perfectly to tell an excellent tale (one volume in) that more refined comic readers will dig. I wish you could hear the partial sarcasm in the refined comment. As a younger reader I wanted nothing but action but over time grew to appreciate a great story, fine growth in characters and a few good mysteries to be revealed. As an adult NYX really hits on the type of story I’m looking for, an evolved mutant story, and a mature mutant story. Since I hate waiting for the next chapter I’m off to buy the entire series and have to say I encourage anyone looking for a realistic mutant story to do the same.

One Piece Season 1 Third & Fourth Voyage Impression

It’s amazing where some devil fruit power and determination will get an up and coming pirate. Just ask Luffy as he continues to assemble his crew and take on some of the most well established pirates this side of the Grand Line. In volume 3 of One Piece from FUNimation Luffy begins his fight with Arlong while in volume 4 of One Piece season one comes to a close with a visit to birthplace of one very famous, dead, pirate king. All aboard (and other pirate puns) for some great anime action.

One Piece Season 1: Third Voyage
The fight with Don Krieg isn’t going so well but as always a new soon-to-be crewmember saves the day. This time it’s Sanji who steps up and keeps Luffy from drowning. A revived Luffy then continues to pound on Krieg, and of course wins, but choices must now be made. During the fight Nami fled with the Going Merry and all the treasure it contains. She’s always said she was not a pirate and it seems she’s proving that. The crew heads off in pursuit, now with Sanji as a cook in search of his own dreams. The destination, Cocoyashi village, Nami’s hometown. Seems Nami is a member of the Arlong pirates, a ruthless group of fishmen who rule the village and are responsible for a few losses in Nami’s life. Her past, reason for being a thief, is soon revealed and yet another fight begins. Zoro, not fully healed, takes on Hatchan the Octopus while the Navy also gets involved and shows their dirty side. The fishmen are legendary in their skill and power, but can they match-up against the Straw Hat Pirates? Time to find out, and to see what happens when someone makes Nami cry.

The animation in both volumes is good for a long running series and reflective of the source manga. These characters are not meant to be very detailed, but their clothing, ships and environments are so unique and well designed that the simple animation works. It’s a great series to watch as there is no log in animation quality. The voice work in both volumes also continues to shine thanks to the new cast for this uncut version of One Piece, a godsend that we can’t thank FUNimation for enough. The story in this third collection wraps up the first major encounter for Luffy as a captain. Buggy does not count; he was still pretty solo with just Zoro. Learning about Nami and her background shows another layer to Luffy in that he does not care, all he cares about is his navigator and helping her. This fight is also a new level as it’s a larger crew encounter against non-human foes that are a step up from Krieg and Buggy. Top it off with the navy now taking notice and Luffy is on his way … where, that’s to be determined.

One Piece Season 1: Fourth Voyage
The fight continues and Luffy is still trapped. Both Usopp and Sanji get involved. Eventually Luffy is saved … drowning again and he really steps up in pounding Arlong and destroying his complex in the process. Every member of the crew must make choices, realize more about themselves and grow, trust in their captain even more. Eventually, the village saved, Arlong defeated, Nami agrees to leave Cocoyashi village and join the crew. The crew sets off for the doorway to the Grand Line, Logue Town. The famed home and execution place of Gold Roger holds its own dangers for Luffy as he must deal with a tough as nails naval officer, Smoker, who has his own devil fruit powers. Some old foes are also on Straw hats tail as Buggy has managed to pull himself back together and find a new lady to fight with. Logue Town is known as the Town of the Beginning and the End and as Luffy explores the area he seems to follow a path Rogers himself too, even to the execution platform. Zoro has an encounter with a Sergeant Major in the navy while obtained some new swords and Usopp encounters the bounty hunger Daddy the Parent only to learn about his own father. Sanji takes on a cooking challenge and we catch-up with Red Haired Shanks as Hawk Eye delivers news of Luffy’s bounty and growth. A new road lays ahead, one to the Grand Line but first the Straw Hat Pirates must pass the challenges of Logue town.

Wow, tons of action here as the fight with Arlong finishes and what’s in store in Logue town is just tasty. Learning more about Gold Rogers and seeing how Luffy leaves an impression on Smoker and others, it just sets the stage for the grand adventure that is to come. Seeing Red Haired Shanks again as well as the mysterious dragon (who?) just leaves viewers wanting more. This is the end of the first season of One Piece and all the adventures to this point were just appetizers for what’s to come.

Overall these are great additions to any anime collection as One Piece is a rare beast of an anime that mixes great style, action and humor into bite size collectible chunks. I for one cannot wait till season 2 begins, not bad for a series that was once a joke here in the states. Funny what a little re-dub can do.

Samurai Harem: Asu No Yoichi vol. 1 Impression

The classic anime harem formula is on full display in Samurai Harem: Asu No Yoichi volume 1 from Tokyopop and it’s a guilty pleasure many an Otaku will savor. Yu Minamoto has crafted an enjoyable story and brought it to life with art that’s pleasing to look at.

His entire life Yoichi Karasuma has lived isolated in the mountains. Trained in the art of Bushido by his father he is now sent to live in the city with the Ikaruga family, at their dojo, to further his training. After an encounter with a local bully, whom he seems to think is a sparring partner (poor Wa-San) Yoichi begins to settle in with the young ladies of the Ikaruga dojo. Ibuki, very busty and a more traditional sword fighter, Ayame the fashionable socialite, Chihaya the manga writer and Kagome, the youngest sister. It seems that Yoichi for all his training has never encountered beauties like these and he just happens to get into awkward situations over and over again. Plenty of panty shots are wrapped around an evolving love triangle between Yoichi and two of the sisters. How will his relationships evolve, who will he end up with and will Wa-San ever defeat him in a fight? These are just a few of the questions to be revealed, but until then let the awkwardness continue.

So first the art, it’s excellent. While Ibuki starts off as the primary lead, her busty look with long straight hair has been done to death in this type of series. Now Ayame in her preppy style with cell phone and different art direction, now she is worth paying attention to as she is not cookie cutter. Beyond these two even Ikaruga is an average looking character. Each is unique but none really stand out. The backgrounds are well done when needed, but again nothing super special, its modern day Japan. The story also is predictable, well, except for who is in the triangle. I guess I have a soft spot for this type of anime. The nervous romance that is unexpected is always the best.

Overall Samurai Harem is pleasing on the eye, offers up some fan-service and by the end of volume 1 really weaves a tale that will capture the reader’s heart and bring them back for more … with plenty of humor mixed in. Not for everyone, but fans of the harem, romance genre will dig this puppy.

Trailer: Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen - Shia LaBeouf & Peter Cullen

So the movie is out in just a few days, ditto for the video game. These two video game trailers for Transformers: Revenge of the Fallen are just fun to watch. First up is Peter Cullen (Optimus) and Frank Welker (Megatron) chatting about coming together for the second game. They don't discuss any ground breaking news, but hearing and seeing them do the voices is timeless for fans of the show.

The second trailer is Sam himself, Shia LaBeouf, taking the game for a spin and talking about his involvement, something gamers should be used to by now, that being talent involvment in games tied to movies. He really shows some nice insight into the storyline possibilities of the games, looking at it from both good and evil perspectives as well as how the story can be expanded. Not bad at all I must say. The only odd thing is the trailer stops rather suddenly, you just feel there is more, but not a bad few minutes. Check it out and enjoy, the movie is almost here.

Schoolgirl Milky Crisis Impression

Schoolgirl Milky Crisis, a book I’ve had for a few months now and one which I’m still reading, for good reason. Unlike most books this collection of work, articles, speeches, insight from Jonathan Clements is the perfect … throne room read. This book is so tasty in bite size chunks, each section captures a unique angle, a different look at the world of anime and manga as well as related industries. Reading like greatest hits of Clements work this book is a very enjoyable read for anime and manga fans everywhere. If you want to get official anime, check out Clements co-authored Anime Encyclopedia and the Dorama Encyclopedia, but if you’re looking for some funny stories that only a lifer in the industry would know, well then look no further than Schoolgirl Milky Crisis … it’s worth the pickup just to understand the title. Props also to Steve Kyte’s illustrations, very nice.

Who is Jonathan Clements; in a nutshell he is an anime/manga lifer, a translator, voice actor, co-author, public speaker, interviewer, insider … his is what any anime and manga journalist wants to become when they look back on their career. He is worthy of your attention as these stories cannot be made up, the lectures cannot be attended. Learn from one in the know as it’s not often someone like Clements comes along with such a mixture of East, West and everything in-between. That’s who Clements is to me, but check out some of the sections from the book that make it a must have for all anime fans …

Behind the Scenes – Insider knowledge like this only comes from getting, well, behind the scenes with music, dubbing and more less than glamorous task.

Interviews and Profiles – Big-time interviews, nuff said.

Five Girls Named Moe: The Anime Erotic – A speech given on anime porn, hentai, in Wales, and the chapter name is worthy of a book in and of itself.

Around the World – Anime and manga outside Japan, even in Europe.

Rubber Monsters – Godzilla to Power Rangers, a staple of anime that is not anime. Chapter title would have had totally different meaning if put after the Anime Erotic chapter.

Chinese Animation – An extension of around the world, but takes a closer look at some top titles in China which ya gotta figure will hit the States.

Industries and Marketries – Making a buck, from creator to the public’s hands, a madhouse that could be its own anime.

Highbrow Skills in a Lowbrow Medium: Translation Japanese Animation – Speech from UK, different but great view of not just translating but how it’s an art, a true skill.

Toy Stories – High hopes for this section, but nope, did not like (one part of book now down with, just did not dig it).

Manga Goes to Hollywood – look at more western type anime as well as very Hollywood Spriggan titles. How good is the Hollywood influence on anime, you gotta read.

Digital Animation – Look at digital, from a speech, good or bad it’s here from Ghost in the Shell on.

Obits and Memories – Interesting, not see in most books, but a look at those who have left us, their legacy on the industry and why readers need to care.

Overall, Schoolgirl Milky Crisis is a truly unique read, great source material for a research paper (hint to you folks in college) and one hell of a legacy for Jonathan Clements. One only has their current life to live so why not take a look at Clements life and the adventures he’s had in the anime and manga trade.

Detroit Metal City vol. 1 Impression

Detroit Metal City volume 1 from Viz is all about awkward situations. When you take a huge fan of Swedish Pop and make him the lead singer on one of the vilest and up and coming death metal bands, well the situations are going to get very strange. Welcome to the life of Soichi Negishi.

DMC, Detroit Metal City is an up and coming underground death metal band headlined to Krauser II. On stage Krauser spits on and abuses the audience and his lyrics relay a tortured soul, one who will kill and rape any in his way. Backstage it’s a different story as once the makeup is off Krauser II is plain old, boring, Swedish pop fan Soichi Negishi. He is the opposite of everything DMC but time and again his two lives crash into one another. From encounters with a school crush to his ultra twisted manager crashing his apartment even to his countryside home where his brother is totally into DMC the strange situations never end and DMC just keeps gaining steam. Krauser II seems to have an easier life than Negishi, but he has nothing to hide on stage where if his identity is revealed Negishi’s dreams of Swedish pop will be gone forever.

Short summary but this series is all about awkward situations. Know this, the content is very mature and suggestive which, strange as it may sound, really adds to the humor. The story is not War & Peace, but it is well told. We meet Negishi and learn about his situation but don’t really hear (yet) how he got there. Each time he seems to be cornered be it on the street with the cops as Krauser II or in his apartment with his elderly neighbor, he always seems to get out like Jack in Three’s Company. No situation really carries over and they all have just plain funny points. Seeing a decked out Krauser II doing some tutoring, funny. The art is not great from an award winning standpoint; it actually reminded me of so many underground comics which is perfect for this story. It’s tough to put into words how the art must fit the story and content to a tee.

Overall the story crafted by Kiminori Wakasugi is unlike anything on shelves now. It’s not too serious, it’s very funny and mature to boot. A strange cast of characters, those that love and those that despise DMC, and a series of short story situations add up to a manga worth checking out. If you’re looking for a manga or story to compare this to, a, if you like this type of thing, forget about it. DMC is unique and very interesting. Give it a try, that’s really all I can say, but stay away IF lyrics about rape and treating women like trash is not something you want to see.

NEW PEOPLE, Center of Everything J-Pop

What is J-Pop? NEW PEOPLE will have the answer to that and much more when it opens in San Francisco in August of 2009. Founded by Seiji Horibuchi, NEW PEOPLE will be a must visit destination for fans of J-Pop, even culture buffs. The location will be over 20,000 square feet and located at 1745 Post Street. So the question is still there, what is J-Pop? It’s Japanese Pop Culture and its influence is on the streets, in anime and manga and right before your eyes and you may not even know. NEW PEOPLE will trace the evolution of J-Pop as it’s evolved in both the states and over seas.

Visitors can look forward to checking out several fashion labels making their debut on the second floor. There will also be art galleries to check out, looks at film, anime, fashion and more all around J-Pop. It will be a truly immersive experience in the heart of Historic Japantown. With three years of development time it’s gotta be something special and according to the press release the cinema will be …

“The spacious 143-seat underground cinema space is equipped with cutting edge High Definition digital projection and THX®-certified sound and is the soul of the NEW PEOPLE experience. Its core focus will be on some of the latest and hottest films from Japan, as well as an incredible legacy of classics, documentaries and anime – making it the only cinema of its type in the United States. These film genres are some of the most recognizable examples of Japanese pop culture and have captured the world’s attention.”

There is much more to be seen, outlined in the press release here. Overall this is really something to get excited about. Any true anime fan knows there are local shops to visit and get goods from, plenty of sites online to find J-Pop items but an experience like NEW PEOPLE could turn into an anime Mecca, a must visit. Heck, just the fashion alone will be worth the trip. Trust me on this one, being able to order online is great, but seeing products in hand, feeling them, it’s so much better and that’s just one floor of NEW PEOPLE. Check in as we’ll have more info as it present itself and don’t forget to check out the official site for some just released fashion info.

Naruto Shippuden: Legends: Akatsuki Rising E3 game trailer

Namco Bandai rolled out three new Dragon Ball titles at E3 and of course a new Naruto, but with a bit of a twist. This is not the next-gen, Shippuden based beast that would make PlayStation 3 owners drool, nope, it’s a PSP title set in Shippuden story-arc. Naruto Shippuden: Legends: Akatsuki Rising is the next chapters for Naruto on the PSP following the Ultimate Ninja Heroes titles. Each of those was more or less shrunk down version of the PlayStation 2 Ultimate Ninja titles but great anime gaming on the go. Now initial impression is that Akatsuki Rising is just Ultimate Ninja 4 shrunk down is very valid. That recent PS2 title remains the first Shippuden title released here in the states and continued the fighting action with updated characters and settings and really Akatsuki Rising is just that. This is shaping up to be a portable version of the PS2 title but that is a good thing as UN4 was a joy to play. Here is the interesting thing about Namco Bandai. They have new Dragon Ball on Wii, next-gen and DS so are they serving up anime fans on the PSP with Naruto? Is this why there are no PSP DB titles and nothing but a PSP title for Naruto? That is for further discussion but lets take a look at the trailer.

The mode of play to really keep an eye on is the Akatsuki mode where gamers get to see story points not touched on for the secret organization of rogue ninja. The game itself looks decent on the PSP but is a fighting game with story elements mixed in. Really not too much to add here. If you’ve played any Ultimate Ninja title then you know what to expect. The biggest thing Akatsuki Rising has going for it is its platform the PSP. This is a game system that is lacking in good titles, heck it’s lacking in pretty much any titles. A name brand like Naruto, a good game at that, will really help this system and give fans of the franchise something to play until the next PS3, Xbox 360 Shippuden title.

New Dragon Ball Video Games Announced at E3

Three new games announced by Namco Bandai at E3 this past week show that Dragon Ball and Dragon Ball Z is still very relevant. An excellent, if a bit dated, anime (get it from FUNimation) the baby of creator Akira Toriyama really shone on the PlayStation 2 with excellent fighting titles under the Budokai name. There were other hits and plenty of misses but what DBZ did was put anime gaming in front of the casual gamer, a good gaming experience for more than just fans. Due to the anime having wrapped up years ago and the apparent passing of the anime gaming mantle to Naruto, the days of great, relevant DBZ gaming seemed long gone … not so fast. Atari was the publisher of choice on PS2, GBA, GameCube and Xbox but now its Namco Bandai’s turn. Three new titles, each unique and crafted for the DS, Wii, Xbox 360 and PlayStation 3 but it’s the angle each game takes, the story points, that is very interesting. Let’s take a look at each title, game play features and the timeline they encompass …

Dragon Ball: Raging Blast – The next-gen title for PlayStation 3 and Xbox 360, this is by far the most gorgeous of the titles. Fans of DBZ know that the animation from the Saiyan Saga to the Buu fights improved along with character design and this title reflects that perfection of design. This is an HD designed game that looks simply stunning and like Budokai titles before is all about fighting. The crazy flying, fighting, destructive environments seen in the anime are recreated in true HD. So what’s the hitch … the roster it seems. The screenshots revealed show Goku, Piccolo, Vegeta and Freeza and the setting seems to be Namek. Burst Limit for next-gen also had a limited roster and setting which for fans is a pain no matter how great a series looks. It’s a tough pill to swallow not having a larger roster for the price to be paid so hopefully more characters can be downloaded/purchased even if the settings remain in the Freeza era.

Dragon Ball: Revenge of King Piccolo – Created for the Wii and not that bad looking. This title takes a page from the handheld book and goes back to a younger Goku with a simpler look and feel with the original DB franchise which actually works better on the Wii. The game is a platformer and shows some origins a few gamers may not know about with these characters. It’s also nice to dispel some of the plot point Dragon Ball: Evolution established. There are RPG level-up elements and special attacks to be performed with the Wii-mote and due to the series layout it’s not as fast-paced or high-flying as DBZ, a good choice for Wii and younger for a more casual audience.

Dragon Ball Z: Attack of the Saiyans – Ah, the handheld anime RPG. Strangely these types of games have worked and worked well as gamers relive the events of the anime turn-based style. New, unseen story paths will be included as seen in DBZ handheld titles before, the alternate what if angle and since this is just the Saiyan Saga there are more games to come and plenty of source material to choose from. Not too much more to add as the graphics are DS worthy, very pretty and the game play is an RPG. Dragon Ball Origins is a great DS title that flew under the radar but hopefully more gamers pay attention to Attack of the Saiyans.

Overall Raging Blast looks truly next-gen but could come up short with a limited roster. Revenge of King Piccolo could be the gem of the group with a storyline that’s not been explored on console and Attack of the Saiyans will also be of note due to the branching story paths. My only question is, with the support Namco Bandai has shown for PSP where is the DBZ fighter on PSP? How many Naruto PSP titles are shrunk down PS2 offerings? All things considered the greatest thing about these titles is they are all unique. Each takes on a different storyline and different game play type from fighting game to RPG to platformer. Will these games make DBZ a challenger for Naruto, hard to say, but with an established fan-base and unique offerings an anime gamer can hope.

IKKI from Viz and Children of the Sea vol. 1 Impression

Viz Media recently launched IKKI, an online beta that brings manga in a new manner. IKKI is a monthly Japanese publication with a focus on contemporary manga that launched in 2003. IKKI has since teamed up with Viz Media here in the states under the Viz Signature category and they are going beyond just print, they’re online. This new online magazine will be updated monthly and feature a series of manga, starting with Children of the Sea, featured in the screenshot. In addition to releases of the chapters from volume 1 of the manga visitors will also get to read an interview with series creator Daisuke Igarashi. The idea is that once all chapters from the first volume are release then the printed version hits shelves.

So first, Children of the Sea is a great story to begin with as it’s very deep. The art style is very un-anime, it’s fresh and real. Ruka is a flawed little girl, banned from her handball team and floating between her separated parents. Ruka meets a young boy Umi and eventually his brother Sora, two boys raised in the sea by dugongs. All three are searching for something, something the ocean holds in its depths. Volume 1 follows the trio as they not only search for this strange call but also as they discover one another, especially Ruka finding her place in life.

There are more story points than just this including global disappearances of fish from aquariums but the heart of the story really lies with Umi and Ruka. I’m sure Sora will come along as a deeper character later but so far the art matches what is a very compelling story. This is a must read online and really shows promise for what’s to come on IKKI. From the official press release future series include Bokurano: Ours by Mohiro Kitoh, House of Five Leaves by Natsume Ono, Dorohedoro by Q Hayashida and I’ll Give It My All … Tomorrow by Shunju Aono. Add to the stories interviews, creator profiles and manga fans will get a no-cost preview of new series without sitting in a bookstore reading the volumes of manga (this sucks by the way, buy the books, support the industry).

Times are tough, money tight, but manga fans need to suffer as Viz is taking care of us. Going online and reading free manga, un-pirated manga, now that’s the way to go, pretty sweet.

The Sky Crawlers DVD Impression

When a feature length anime movie is released from legendary Mamoru Oshii of Ghost in the Shell fame, well any self respecting otaku better take note. The Sky Crawlers is that movie and while it has its moments there is a bit of magic missing from this visually stunning feature.

Kildren, young pilots fighting in a war they are too young to remember beginning. One such pilot, Yuichi, is assigned to a new post with a handful of fellow pilots. His young, female CO is Suito and she has secrets both about the plane Yuichi is assigned as well as the fate of its former pilot. As Yuichi learns more about his situation the war rages on and aerial battles commence, both small and large. His journey of discovery shows that these Kildren are indeed human and not just killing machines but how will his personal relationships shape his piloting, which is the joy of this journey.

Short story description but more on that in a minute. First the animation and design. Beautiful is the only way to describe the dogfights. The mechanical design and detail on each aircraft, use of computer animation is the best there is on the market, cutting edge. A sharp contrast is the design of each character, very ordinary looking with not a ton of detail. These are believable, ordinary looking characters. The setting reminds of WWII European countryside as does the building design. The dogfights are by far the best, absolute best, part of this DVD and it’s a true shame there is not more because the story is not so great.

There is mystery about Yuichi, what happened to the former pilot of his new plane, something stated on the DVD case. As viewers watch there are more questions and mysteries, especially around Suito. The conversation, time on the ground, for these pilots is very serious and thought provoking … thoughts like should I fast forward to the next dogfight. If you’re a viewer looking for a nice, deep human drama with a bit of action then The Sky Crawlers is right up your alley but comparing this to Ghost in the Shell in any way is not justified. The war is never really explained, Suito is just an annoying character and things like the enemies ace pilot the Teacher, his possibly being an adult and the ending are all just annoying without proper explanation. Vague on these points yes, why … because there are folks who will enjoy this DVD.

At the end of the day The Sky Crawlers is just not for me. I loved the superior animation and action but the human drama just felt empty. A good movie but not great on the level of Ghost in the Shell even after all this time.

Claymore DVD vol. 4 & 5 Impression

The battle for survival begins for Clare in Claymore volumes 4 and volume 5 from FUNimation. An excellent manga series translates very well as an anime and none of the dark and moody world is lost in translation.


Claymore DVD volume 4
Hunted by the Organization, Clare must disguise herself as she searches for Rocky. While suppressing her power she sees from the outside how her kind is viewed, or more accurate how humans live when Claymore at not around. A chance encounter leads to a fight with an awakened one in which Clare meets number 9 Jean and number 3 Galatea. Histroy is revealed as the Creatues of the Abyss are revealed, three powerful awakened that have divided up three of the four territories. On a new mission, one that looked to be a way to eliminate Clare and her fellow ‘trouble-maker’ Claymore she and the other learn how to go beyond their limits and come back with a bit of help. After going their separate ways a new mission is revealed, one that has a large group of Claymore heading north to contront one of the Creatures of the Abyss, the only male, Silver King Isley.


Claymore DVD volume 5
The battle continues as a scouting party of awakend under Isley’s command challenge the Claymore, now organized into groups with the highest ranked a leaders. This skirmish can only mean the invasion of Pieta is about to begin. While Clare searches for Rocky he is also looking for her and encounters a young girl in his travels and her older companion. Rocky grows close to these two as they travel north together and he learns who the little girl is, it’s an awakened named Pricilla and her companion, none other than Isley. As the Claymore take out the scouting party they formulate their plans and then the invasion begins with many awakened under Isley’s banner and under the command of Rigaldo, the Silver Eyed Lion King. He takes on and eliminates many of the leaders but finds more than he can handle with a surprise attack by Clare. Can the Claymore defeat a legendary awakened one, can they hope to survive with so many high ranked dead?

Lots of fighting in these two volumes. The animation and design is spot on from the manga and very unique in the look department. The story is moving along at a much faster clip. Main points to take away, first is the four Claymore who realize they can come back from their limits, second is Rocky’s encounter with Isley and Pricilla and third is the battle in Pieta, a major turning point for the series. It’s all about action and unless you’re a fan of the series now then don’t start with these volumes, go back to volume 1, you won’t be disappointed. Now looking ahead is fun and I’m guessing the battle will conclude and there just has to be a second season of Claymore coming soon, fans of the manga know what I’m talking about.

Marvel vs. Capcom 2: New Age of Heroes Game Trailer

Just like Street Fighter before it now Marvel vs. Capcom 2 is getting a full makeover just for download on PlayStation Network and Xbox Live. This game looks hot and the best of this series was seen on the Dreamcast and Saturn. Now gamers can delight in an excellent gaming experience that will get a bit more pub thanks to the remakes of Street Fighter, release of Street Fighter IV and of course the Wolverine X-Men movie. Check out the trailer below ...

Ouran High School Host Club Part 2 Impression

Volume 2 of Ouran High School Host Club from FUNimation, also the final volume gets a bit more serious without losing any of the humor that makes this series one to own … by guy or gal.

As Haruhi continues to work off her debt she comes to learn the history of each member of the club and how Tamaki recruited them. Tamaki comes from a family with a very strict grandmother, one who dictated to his mother, who remains in Europe, conditions of how he was to be raised and where. Kyoya also participates in the club at the ire of his father. Being the third son means he will never gain the company business even as he’s the most successful. Honey has his own irritants in the form of his younger brother always seeking a fight (and assuming Honey is not quite human due to his sweet tooth). Not all is doom and gloom as the Lobelia Girl’s Academy kidnaps Haruhi to participate in a play to steal her first kiss. Actually things get very serious as the host club is dissolved when Tamaki’s fiancé appears and he goes along with his grandmothers commands yet again. How can such a unique club come to such an abrupt end?

Ah the host club, even in volume 2 with such a serious flavor, is still such a charming and funny series. The animation and character design seems right out of any Shojo manga with a bit more serious Shonen edge to the characters. They have their moments of hostly dreaminess but can be as arrogant, funny and wacky as can be expected. In a nutshell don’t judge this serious by its sappy, flower included cover. The story keeps the humor and awkward moments from volume one but gets a bit more serious with background stories and some brutal family situations. Even the twins have a pretty dark past of playing tricks before being recruited. Quentin Tarantino’s Kill Bill volume 1 and 2 can draw similar comparisons. Volume 1 was all action (Ouran all humor) while volume 2 of both goes with the background and storytelling before a final confrontation. That final confrontation in Ouran is so pleasing as viewers start to see some of the emotions coming out, this time from Haruhi, that have been percolating on the surface the entire series. While the show does get a bit more serious learning about each character gives a greater appreciation for each, how they can act like they do, why they act as they do, what the club offers each. It also sets the stage for some very satisfying events, few takeovers and surprises at the end but I’m not going to ruin that.

Overall if you watched volume 1 you owe it to yourself to get volume 2. The storytelling takes on a whole new level of seriousness mixed with the humor that makes Ouran so special a series. Looking for funny, looking for romance, looking for a series for guys and gals … yeah, Ouran nails each of these on every level so check it out, one of my faves.