Column
— Archives —
Filters
All
•
Anime
Manga
Novels
Games
Music
Merch
Events
Industry
People
Live-Action
Korean
Text-only Compact View
Text-only List View
Text-only Grid View
List View with Images
Grid View with Images
Answerman - Are Subtitles Getting Smaller?
Is it your eyes, your TV, or Crunchyroll's business decisions making this season's subtitles a bit of a mess? Answerman digs in.
― A Reader asks: Q: "Is it just my eyes, or are subtitles getting smaller?" No, it's not your eyes. I have often thought the same thing, after my own traumatic experience managing the UK home video campaign of Evangelion 3.33: You (Cannot) Release. Sorry! What? That's not ...
This Week in Anime - Ah, Well, Different World and All
Chris and Coop wade through this season's isekai offerings. Wait, are some of these shows trying to do something different?
― Chris and Coop wade through this season's isekai offerings. Wait, are some of these shows trying to do something different? Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion ...
This Week in Anime - The Column at the Corner of Anime Romance and Comedy
Steve and Lucas explore Fall 2025's anime rom-com offerings to find the perfect series.
―
Steve and Lucas explore Fall 2025's rom-com offerings to find the perfect series. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. All titles mentioned are streaming on Crunchyroll, excep...
TWIG Goes On Vacation, But The Gaming Industry Doesn't
Jean-Karlo takes next week off, but not before he imparts some Digimon deep cuts from the "Prelude" anime short.
― Welcome back, folks! So, I know what this looks like, and by the time you read this, I will be in San Diego on vacation. But this past Sunday rolled around, and I was preparing myself to write this week's column, only to remember I was supposed to be on vacation. But then I realized, my ...
This Week in Anime - The Crunchyroll Sub Flub
Coop and Lucas look into the Crunchyroll subtitle situation that set social media ablaze and culminated in a scathing YouTube video by Mother's Basement. Are the technical issues fixed now?
― Coop and Lucas look into the Crunchyroll subtitle situation that set social media ablaze and culminated in a scathing YouTube video by Mother's Basement. Are the technical issues fixed now? Disclaimer: The view...
This Week in Games - Stray Kids, Hives, 'Mins, and DLsite Making Money
The creators of moon have a brand-new game in the works, and Nintendo Pictures debuts its first creation. Read more in This Week in Games!
― Welcome back, folks! In my continued efforts to keep this column on the straight and narrow, I avoid talking too much about Carnelian's efforts with the recent Kao no Nai Tsuki Remake visual novel. It's been out for a few weeks now, and as far as I can tell, it'...
Answerman - Defamation Versus Free Speech
The Ranking of Kings manga creator is suing a woman for defamation based on social media posts she made. Doesn't that violate free speech?
― Lawfully curious asks: A manga artist is suing a woman for defamation based on social media posts she made. Doesn't that violate free speech? Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences, especially when it comes to defamation and hate speech. In c...
This Week in Games - EA Games Gets Played
This week, Jean-Karlo examines the EA Games purchase, the latest Silent Hill news, and what consumers and companies can do to ensure the games we play are developed fairly.
― Welcome back, folks! I finally got to share my Digimon Story: Time Stranger review this week. It was definitely one of the most fun things I've worked on all year. I hope people enjoy the game for what it is. I sadly missed the ...
This Week in Anime - My Love is a Monster
Christopher Farris and Steve Jones discuss the appeal of anime romance starring not-so-human guys, gals, and tentacle pals.
― Christopher Farris and Steve Jones discuss the appeal of anime romance starring not-so-human guys, gals, and tentacle pals. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion ...
This Week in Anime - Anime Across Generations
Coop and Lucas look at the ways different generations got into anime and remind us that we're all fans in the same fandom.
― Coop and Lucas look at the ways different generations got into anime and remind us that we're all fans in the same fandom. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Executive editor Lynzee Loveridg...
This Week in Games - Sony State of Play 2025
Kojima cannot be stopped! Jean-Karlo looks at the big news out of Tokyo Game Show and Sony's State of Play!
― Welcome back, folks! Man, they certainly kept us busy this week with the Tokyo Game Show. However, I am happy that I didn't have to sit through another two-stream day, where, I dunno, someone had a presentation right after Sony's State of Play. It's been a long week and there's a lot of news,...
This Week in Anime - The Name of the Game is Death
Steve and Lucas look at the death game genre and hope to emerge victorious.
―
Steve and Lucas look at the death game genre and hope to emerge victorious. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams Necronomico, Future Diary, Danganronpa anime, Big Order...
This Week in Anime - The Panty & Stocking Phenomenon
The New Panty & Stocking went harder than we ever expected after so many years in limbo. Chris and Coop rehash some of the new season's best moments and its unabashedly not-safe-for-work moments.
― The New Panty & Stocking went harder than we ever expected after so many years in limbo. Chris and Coop rehash some of the new season's best moments and its unabashedly not-safe-for-work moments. Disclaim...
Answerman - What's Up with the Trash Monsters in Gachiakuta?
Jerome explains the importance of compositing artists, the unsung heroes of anime production.
― Shonen Action Fan asks: "I was really hyped to watch Gachiakuta this season, the latest splashy shonen manga adaptation from Studio Bones. I haven't read the manga, so I went into the anime cold. The trailers had me hyped, and the pilot episode didn't disappoint. I noticed online that some fans have been ...
This Week in Games - Nintendo September Direct 2025
You've watched the trailers; now get the full run-down of the latest news from last week's Nintendo Direct. From more Yoshi to the return of the Virtual Boy!
― Welcome back, folks! I hope everyone enjoyed my cameo appearance in This Week in Anime yesterday. I'd have made a cute segue for it in last week's column, but things were arranged a bit too late for that. It's always nice to collaborate with S...
This Week in Anime - International Rider Kick
Kamen Rider Zeztz has hit the international streaming airwaves, and our resident Kamen Writers are here to join the fray!
― Kamen Rider Zeztz has hit the international streaming airwaves, and our resident Kamen Writers are here to join the fray! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of t...
This Week in Anime - To Boldy Shojo Where No TWIA Has Before
From Shugo Chara to Hot Gimmick, Chris and Steve decide to throw Rebecca a bone by looking at the shojo manga bundle offered by HumbleBundle.
― From Shugo Chara to Hot Gimmick, Chris and Steve decide to throw Rebecca a bone by looking at the shojo manga bundle offered by HumbleBundle. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Net...
This Week in Games - Little Nightmares 3 Preview, and Digimon Stories: Time Stranger Interview
Jean-Karlo sets the record straight on Nintendo's latest patent, plus a preview of two upcoming games from PAX!
― Welcome back, folks! I've been ruminating on my recent review of Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar. I mean what I said, but I worry if I might've been too harsh on the game. I feel like having to play a game like Grand Bazaar for review does it a disservice, because the nature of playing a g...
This Week in Anime - Unreviewed Gems
No one's infallible, and sometimes the true gems of the streaming season slip through the cracks. Chris and Lucas take a look at what we may have missed.
― No one's infallible, and sometimes the true gems of the streaming season slip through the cracks. Chris and Lucas take a look at what we may have missed. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the...
This Week in Anime - Webtoons and K-Dramas
Missing brothers, the truth about the KPop industry, and endless cycles of reincarnation are just a few of the things Coop and Steve find when they open the lid of the K-drama box and discover the darkness within.
― Missing brothers, the truth about the KPop industry, and endless cycles of reincarnation are just a few of the things Coop and Steve find when they open the lid of the K-drama box and di...
Answerman - Is Superhero Burnout at the Box Office Affecting Anime Films?
If superhero fatigue is affecting anime, it's only in a good way. Read on to find out why.
― Mister Terrific asks: "Is superhero burnout at the box office affecting anime films?" Superhero fatigue* is real. Just take a look at the summer 2024 box office results for Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts, The Fantastic Four, and James Gunn's Superman, which I must admit, I really enjoyed. *Su...
This Week in Games - Shattered Hands, Ultima in Japan and My Hero Academia: All's Justice
Jean-Karlo tests out the latest MHA game at PAX, shares the tokusatsu history of a retro title, and explains why the American game franchise Ultima is a big deal in Japan.
― Welcome back, folks! I have returned from Seattle, having (distantly) experienced PAX West for the first time! No, I didn't fly out to Seattle for PAX specifically (in fact, I only spent a few hours touring the place); I was in t...
This Week in Anime - The Best Manga in Young Magazine—U.S. Edition
Could English-language manga magazines be poised to make a comeback? Chris and Coop aren't sure, but Kodansha's English issue of Young is still a lot of fun!
― Could English-language manga magazines be poised to make a comeback? Chris and Coop aren't sure, but Kodansha's English issue of Young is still a lot of fun! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are...
This Week in Anime - Over Hype and Anime Stagnation
Steve and Lucas dissect what's really going on in the anime industry and what needs to change—and how elf ears are an indispensable part of the deal.
― Steve and Lucas dissect what's really going on in the anime industry and what needs to change—and how elf ears are an indispensable part of the deal. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views o...
This Week in Games - Laboring LaDS
Love and Deepspace is too hot to ignore, former CAPCOM alums are starting a new studio, Final Fantasy: Brave Exvius shutters, and more Romancing SaGa is on the way!
― Welcome back, folks! Our Power Rangers charity stream last weekend was a success! It was such a blast to roleplay with the folks, fun times all around. I also took the opportunity to join some folks for an anime trivia night at a local ...
Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - The Cure is Pretty
Can one magical intern defeat The Blade of Michelob?
― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy the finale to the limited comic run! How will Azure turn the tide against her most formidabl...
This Week in Anime - American Manga Awards 2025
The winners of the American Manga Awards are in! Coop and Lucas take a look at them and share their thoughts.
― The winners of the American Manga Awards are in! Coop and Lucas take a look at them and share their thoughts. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Executive editor Lynzee Loveridge is a judge for the Ameri...
This Week in Anime - Sekiro, AI, and Auteur Directors
As Steve says, "A studio does not make an anime. People make anime." But what tools should those people be using? Chris and Steve discuss.
― As Steve says, "A studio does not make an anime. People make anime." But what tools should those people be using? Chris and Steve discuss. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.S...
Answerman - Why is Demon Slayer So Popular in Japan?
What's the secret behind Demon Slayer's intense popularity? According to experts, it's a lot of things.
― Lynzee asks: “Why is Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba anime and manga so popular in Japan?” Demon Slayer is popular in Japan for the same reasons it is popular everywhere else, and that is a good thing because not many of my Japan-based anime industry friends wanted to comment either on or off the...
This Week in Games - Kirby + Air = Rider(s)
Kirby is back, riding to glory in a sequel decades in the making. Also news about the Tales of... remasters and Shenmue III for all your nostalgia needs.
― Welcome back, folks! Hey, so, I wanna be honest about something for a minute: I put effort into giving credit to a lot of offbeat titles—obscure RPGs or simulation games or visual novels. A lot of that was my bread-and-butter growing up, and it st...
Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - Constant Reckless Barrage Smash Attack!
Can Jadress hold her own against this formidable foe, or will they need to call in back-up?
― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy a new comic each Thursday for the next week! In which...
This Week in Anime - Song of the Summer
There may not be a Top 40 "song of the summer" for 2025, but Coop and Chris have some good anime options!
― There may not be a Top 40 "song of the summer" for 2025, but Coop and Chris have some good anime options! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Undead Murder F...
This Week in Anime - HBO to the Max
Steve and Lucas discuss HBO Max 's surprise influx of anime titles.
― Steve and Lucas discuss HBO Max's surprise influx of anime titles. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Lucas Steve, I'm constantly floored when I re...
This Week in Games - Robos Saved, Ninja Babes, and Sega's AI Plans
Mario gets a new line for young fans, Chibi Robo comes to Nintendo Switch Online+, and Sega commits to generative AI. It's This Week in Games!
― Welcome back, folks! Over the week, I saw someone I follow bring up Backloggd, a website for keeping track of your game collection. I used to have a similar deal on the now-defunct 1Up.com. I've gone ahead and made a Backloggd page for myself. It's quite inc...
Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - The Blade of Michelob
In which the three elves have to do what takes some gamers 60+ hours to pull off.
― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy a new comic each Thursday for the next two weeks! In which, the...
This Week in Anime - Physical Media Is Cool Again!
Steve and Chris find a whole underwear drawer's worth of special extras that make collecting physical media cool.
―
Steve and Chris find a whole underwear drawer's worth of special extras that make collecting physical media cool. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead....
This Week in Anime - Anime Just As Good As I Remembered
After breaking down the early fandom favorites that lost their luster, Coop and Lucas go back and examine the old faves that do hold up.
― After breaking down the early fandom favorites that lost their luster, Coop and Lucas go back and examine the old faves that do hold up. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoil...
Answerman and the Case of the Phantom Dubber
I've been working these mean streets of anime distribution long enough to know when something smells fishier than a week-old California roll, and this Tai Chi Chasers business raised more red flags than a military parade on an authoritarian's birthday.
― Dear Reader,
The case came to me on a Tuesday, the kind of day when the Los Angeles smog hangs over the anime industry like a cheap suit on a depar...
This Week in Games - Brawling Capes, Big N's Red Tape, and Grown-Ups in Spandex
This week we have all the updates from EVO, what happened to Pekora's Pokémon stream, and an actually good Power Rangers collab!
― Welcome back, folks! It seems my busy schedule got the better of me: earlier this week, I checked to see if I still had time to submit a panel for this year's Kumoricon... and I was but a few days too late. What a shame; I was looking forward to hosting my History of Jap...
This Week in Anime - Demon Hunting KPop Style
Coop and Lucas discuss the animated film of the summer, KPop Demon Hunters and its incredible appeal.
― Coop and Lucas discuss the animated film of the summer, KPop Demon Hunters and its incredible appeal. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @...
Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - The Intern Enters the Labyrinth
In which, Annika gets lost in the Kadokawa conglomerate and crosses paths with some sinister sister company mascots.
― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy a new comic each Thursday fo...
This Week in Anime - Rainbow Days
It's a good season for queer anime! Chris and Steve go over your options.
― It's a good season for queer anime! Chris and Steve go over your options. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. You and Idol Precure♪, My Dress-Up Darling Season 2, and See You Tomorrow at th...
Answerman - Why Isn't Streaming Platform Marketing More Competitive?
Is "Genesis Does What Nintendon't" too harsh for today's marketing climate?
― Annie asks: “I always enjoy learning about marketing campaigns from the old days, like Pepsi vs. Coke and "Genesis Does What Nintendon't". But then I wondered: why isn't there much competitive marketing in the anime industry, inside and outside Japan? In an age of the anime streaming wars in the West, you never see Crunchy...
This Week in Games - One More Path Ahead
Jean-Karlo looks at the exciting new game announcements from this week's Nintendo Partner Showcase, breaks down Sony's lawsuit against Tencent, and payment processors are in the spotlight again as adult games get delisted.
― Welcome back, folks! I've spoken before about my regrets over not having played any of the Daemon X Machina games. The good news is, I was given a chance to do so—and I'm current...
Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - A Pair of Familiar Elves
Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Enjoy a new comic each Thursday for the next five weeks!
― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy a new c...
This Week in Anime - When Anime Takes on Sex Education
Lucas and Steve compare and contrast SHIMONETA and Nukitashi to see which show does it better.
― Lucas and Steve compare and contrast Shimoneta and Nukitashi to see which show does it better. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Shimoneta and World End Harem are str...
This Week in Anime - Tubi or Not Tubi
Are the best things in life really free? Chris and Coop head over to the Tubi streaming service to find out.
― Are the best things in life really free? Chris and Coop head over to the Tubi streaming service to find out. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStr...
This Week in Games - Pokémon Presents 2025
It's a nearly-all Pokemon edition of This Week in Games, bursting with announcements. But don't worry - there's some news for Atelier fans, too!
― Welcome back, folks! I was feeling punchy last week, and I noticed I had omitted my closer after last week's column was published. Imagine I spent all weekend in a corner of your room, occasionally repeating vocal stims under my breath. Being a vtuber fan:...
This Week in Anime - Anti-Nostalgia
We've all got shows that we've outgrown. Coop and Lucas discuss some of theirs.
― We've all got shows that we've outgrown. Coop and Lucas discuss some of theirs. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Full Disclosure: Coop Bicknell regularly works on titles produced b...
This Week in Anime - The Least Cute Meet-Cute and Other Summer Love Stories
Chris and Steve wander through the summer season's tales of love looking for romantic treasures and finding...stuff.
― Chris and Steve wander through the summer season's tales of love looking for romantic treasures and finding...stuff. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ...
This Week in Games - Horse Play
Jean-Karlo celebrates a second wave of Umamusume, shares more details about Ghosts of Yotei, and speculates on Universal's possible Donkey Kong film.
― Welcome back, folks! I saw Kpop Demon Hunters for a second time this past weekend. It's still an addictive movie. I'm short on news otherwise, let's get into it! This is... Uma Musume: Pretty Derby Gets Big Like many of you, I was made aware of Uma Mu...
This Week in Anime - Once More Unto the Isekai Breach
It's time for the Summer 2025 Isekai Roundup! Coop and Lucas see if there's anything worth your time in this season's offerings of the ubiquitous genre.
― It's time for the Summer 2025 Isekai Roundup! Coop and Lucas see if there's anything worth your time in this season's offerings of the ubiquitous genre. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the v...
This Week in Anime - Back in the Saddle
As the Uma Musume game races to the top of the popularity charts, Steve and Chris explore the reasons why horse girls are perennial favorites.
― Steve and Chris explore the reasons why horse girls are perennial favorites. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Uma Mus...
This Week in Games - Square Enix Ringing In Final Fantasy IX's 25th Anniversary
If you think you know what's coming for the Final Fantasy IX anniversary: no you don't.
― Welcome back, folks! To anyone who went to Anime Expo, I hope you guys had a fun time! To the rest of us, how about that new My Dress-Up Darling season? I'm excited over the Kamen Rider news; Kamen Rider Zeztz looks great! I appreciate the minimalist design, and while the Driver being positioned along the chest,...
Answerman - Anime and AI
Jerome examines the thorny problem of AI generated art and animation.
― A reader asks: “Recently there is a trend on social media to create, share and display AI-generated imagery that looks like it came from the Studio Ghibili films, and some of it quite controversial. Meanwhile! Some others seem to be cashing in on the hype by using the Ghibli image generator to create funny or satirical posts, or...
This Week in Games - Is the Third Time the Charm?
Between new projects from Arc System Works and another attempt at a live-action Street Fighter movie, there are a lot of old friends making new appearances this week.
― Welcome back, folks! It's been... a week. Tragedy struck: some Path to Nowhere merch I had tried importing from China was unfortunately routed back to the Netherlands because my address was misspelled. And unfortunately, they destroye...
This Week in Games - Switch 2 Breakdown
Jean-Karlo got his hands on the newest console and is ready to give it a test drive.
― Welcome back, folks! I gave myself a much-needed five-day weekend last week, after having missed my chance to have one during December. I visited a local card shop for some Digimon, saw The Phoenician Scheme and Kpop Demon Hunters, even got some progress in on a Tekkaman Blade model kit I had been waiting for since...
This Week in Anime - Rocking Out to Anime Music Videos
Lucas and Chris dive into the long history of AMVs and their evolution from the early days of the internet through to today.
― This week in anime, Lucas and Chris dive into the long history of AMVs (anime music videos) and their evolution from the early days of the internet through to today. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime N...
This Week in Anime - Yasuomi Umetsu and Young Girls with Massive Handguns
With new anime Virgin Punk hitting Japanese theaters this week, Coop and Steve break down the past works of its director: Yasuomi Umetsu of Kite and Mezzo Forte fame.
― With new anime Virgin Punk hitting Japanese theaters this week, Coop and Steve break down the past works of its director: Yasuomi Umetsu of Kite and Mezzo Forte fame. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants i...
This Week in Games - Finally Back To Kick Some Tail
Jean-Karlo's favorite ninja is making a surprise appearance in the new Cotton, Bloober Team returns to Silent Hill, and DK is back with kid Pauline!
― Welcome back, folks! I had a fun weekend at This Week in Games Central. I was able to find a few old Shogun Warriors comics at a local comic swap, and I counted the minutes until Monday rolled around and UPS would deliver my Switch 2. For folks waiting...
This Week in Anime - Anime News Network's Summer Manga Reading List
Chris and Coop searched their shelves for your next manga beach read!
― Chris and Coop searched their shelves for your next manga beach read! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Coop School's out for summer, Chris! Wit...
This Week in Anime - Manga to Show Your Pride
Happy Pride! Steve and Lucas browse through some queer manga in celebration.
― Happy Pride! Steve and Lucas browse through some queer manga in celebration. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Lucas Steve, I know you an...
This Week in Games - Summer Games Fest 2025
Curious whether you missed any of the big announcements from Summer Game Fest? Jean-Karlo's got you covered.
― Welcome back, folks! With Summer Games Fest behind us, and we have another little bundle of news to share. How nice. It ought to take my mind off of not having a Switch 2 yet... This is... Splatoon Stays Fresh With New Spin-Off, Other Goodies Inbound Splatoon has done pretty well as the orig...
This Week in Anime - The Danmei Controversy
Coop and Chris discuss the censorship of Chinese novels focusing on the romantic attraction between men and the legal persecution of its authors.
― Coop and Chris discuss the censorship of Chinese novels focusing on the romantic attraction between men and the legal persecution of its authors. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime ...
This Week in Anime - Want Your Bad Romance
Lucas and Steve explore the "Toxic Together" K-Comic special on Lezhin.
― Lucas and Steve explore the "Toxic Together" K-Comic special on Lezhin. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Every manhwa title mentioned in this column is available to read on Lezhin. @RiderS...
Answerman - How to Hire a Japanese Studio to Produce Your OVA
Jerome explains the ins and outs of how to get your OVA produced by a Japanese studio.
― A reader asks: “I've read your article "how to get my idea into an anime," but I want to learn the process and etiquette of how you hire a studio to make your content. I was a Japanese major and currently work as an assistant animator, so this is a serious endeavor I want to take once I can front the cost. So, h...
This Week in Games - Sony State of Play: The War of the Dead Man
Jean-Karlo goes over all the exciting announcements from this week's State of Play as well as updates on Tango Gameworks and Shueisha Games' newest title.
― Welcome back, folks! I had the pleasure of working on a Rune Factory: Guardians of Azuma review earlier this week. The Rune Factory games are routinely some of my favorite titles to cover; I am ashamed to admit that I never got around to playing ...
This Week in Anime - Bite-Size Anime Series
Steve and Chris talk series where the episodes are short and sweet.
― Steve and Chris talk series where the episodes are short and sweet. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams Lycoris Recoil: Friends are Thieves of Time, Umayon, Yamishibai, Infern...
The ANN Aftershow - I Totally Called the Gundam GQuuuuuux Twist
Lynzee and James weigh in on CG Chopper from the upcoming second season of live-action One Piece. Also, who is hyped up for The Summer Hikaru Died anime series? Plus: I called the Gundam GQuuuuuux twist. You heard it here first.
― I Totally Called the Gundam GQuuuuuux Twist Lynzee and James weigh in on CG Chopper from the upcoming second season of live-action One Piece. Also, who is hyped up for The...
This Week in Anime - Manga, Translation, and the Rise of Machines
Lucas and Coop discuss the insidious rise of AI in the translation space.
― Lucas and Coop discuss the insidious rise of AI in the translation space. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. One Piece and JoJo's Bizarre Adventure are available at Viz/Shonen Jump App.
Ka...
The ANN Aftershow - Can the Anime Awards Be Fixed? Do They Need to Be?
James, Jacki, and Lynzee look at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards and that Solo Leveling sweep.
― Can the Anime Awards Be Fixed? Do They Need to Be? James, Jacki, and Lynzee look at the Crunchyroll Anime Awards and that Solo Leveling sweep. The awards have continued to have "sweeps," where a single show takes home nine or more awards. We'll discuss this year's nominees, our picks to win, and whether thi...
This Week in Games - Theatrical Rings, Dragon Kin, and An Excuse To Talk About Banana Hair
Jean-Karlo discusses the give-and-take of video game IP movies, the latest news on the Dragon Quest remakes, and Capcom's latest contest!
― Welcome back, folks! People who've kept up with my column know about the Mage: The Ascension campaign I've been running for some Discord friends. Because my players need a breather (and I think it's a good enough spot for a minor recap), I'm going ahead with a "s...
This Week in Anime - Who the GQuuuuuuX is That?
How hard is it for newbies to get into GQuuuuuuX? Chris and Coop investigate.
― How hard is it for newbies to get into GQuuuuuuX? Chris and Coop investigate. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Amazon streams Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX.
Hulu streams 08th MS Team....
Answerman - Why is Anime from the '80s so Nihilistic?
Jerome gives us a history lesson in '80s economics, student protest, post-war sentiment, and how it gave us some of anime's most dire storytelling plots.
― guyzer9x asks: “Having watched a ton of '80s to early 90's OVAs and movies over the decades, I've come to an interesting conclusion: many of them were quite nihilistic in nature. I wonder what was the particular reason for this? I know some examp...
This Week in Anime - Smoke 'Em If You Got 'Em
This week, Lucas and Steve take a look at the history of smoking in anime, how it is used as a story telling device, and gush about their favorite anime smokers.
― This week, Lucas and Steve take a look at the history of smoking in anime, how it is used as a story telling device, and gush about their favorite anime smokers. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this cha...
This Week in Games - Fate-ful games, Dolphin Wings, and T-Posing
An obscure shoot-em-up gets a new lease on life, the Fate franchise gets another console release, and new details on Keita Takahashi's latest game!
― Welcome back, folks! This isn't gaming-related, but a crow almost stole my dinner last weekend. I had ordered some fried plantains to be delivered, and when I went to the door to pick them up, I caught a crow trying to drag away the take-out box with it...
This Week in Anime - Is There A Need for Tenchi?
In light of the recently successful Kickstarter campaign, Steve and Coop take a trip down memory lane with Tenchi Muyo!
― Steve and Coop take a trip down memory lane with Tenchi Muyo. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams Ai Tenchi Muyo!, Tenchi M...
This Week in Anime - What is KochiKame?!
Holy cow, Kochikame is finally available in English?! Chris and Lucas dig into this seminal shōnen series, now streaming on YouTube!
― Holy cow, KochiKame is finally available in English?! Chris and Lucas dig into this seminal shōnen series. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the s...
The ANN Aftershow - You Can Have a Little Kira-Kira Gundam, As a Treat
James and Lynzee are back to get you caught up on the maze-like developments in Kowloon Generic Romance and Gundam GQuuuuuux! Machu can't handle Nyaan piloting the mobile suit, and Reiko puts Kudo to the test when she threatens to leave Kowloon.
― You Can Have a Little Kira-Kira Gundam, As a Treat Welcome back to the ANN Aftershow! Apologies for the long absence; we were still airing live, but your ...
This Week in Games - Ig Noble Realities
Jean-Karlo looks at the history of Tamagotchi pets, Fatal Fury: City of the Wolves' disappointing sales, and upcoming visual novel DesperaDrops!
― Welcome back, folks! I don't talk about it much, but I love little tchotchkes—toys, y'know? A few years back, I watched a video from Chris "Vangelus" Ho on the Glyos system, an indie-toyline made by one Matt Doughty. The character aesthetics speaks to me, ...
This Week in Anime - The Anime-Binging Bugbear
Steve and Lucas discuss the various release models for streaming anime and what does and doesn't work.
― Steve and Lucas discuss the various release models for streaming anime and what does and doesn't work. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams K...
This Week in Anime - Keeping it Professional
Chris and Coop discuss writing about "fun" viewing in a professional capacity.
― Chris and Coop discuss writing about "fun" viewing in a professional capacity. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Coop Chris, it's been ...
This Week in Games - Dolphin Tales, Gacha Whales, and FM Synth Beats To Pilot Jets To
Ecco the Dolphin is back and there's a new release for Sega Genesis? What year is this?
― Welcome back, folks! As usual, Free Comic Book Day crept up on me last week—I didn't even remember it was this past weekend in time to mention it in last week's column. I hope folks were able to pick up some free comics? I wanted that one Mega Man comic, but my local shop didn't carry it. Oh well. I had a nice d...
Answerman - How Will President Trump's Proposed Foreign Film Tariff Affect Anime?
If you need answers about this developing story, Jerome lays out if anime will likely be affected and, if it is, the potential economic fallout for the anime industry.
― Readers ask: “Many, many people are asking how Donald Trump's announcement that America will impose a 100% 'tariff' on movies 'produced in foreign lands' will affect anime. How will this work?” Let's get straight into it and break t...
This Week in Anime - Can't Beat the Classics
Chris and Coop explore the sadly underpopulated world of classic manga in English.
― Chris and Coop explore the sadly underpopulated world of classic manga in English. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead.
While Discotek Media's Blu-ray release of Aim for the Ace sli...
This Week in Anime - Adorable Young Women Performing Lovable Activities
Lucas and Steve bat their big anime eyes at the CGDCT genre.
― Lucas and Steve bat their big anime eyes at the CGDCT genre. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams A Place Further Than the Universe, After School Dice Club, Beck: Mongolian Chop Squad...
This Week in Games - Take Your Turn
Jean-Karlo dissects his experiences with the game review industry and reveals that there's life in Puzzle & Dragon yet.
― Welcome back, folks! I've mentioned before how I've been running a Mage: The Ascension campaign for some buddies over Discord. They know I like tokusatsu, but they've never watched anything like Ultraman. So when I have them fighting off an invasion of bizarre extra-dimensional li...
This Week in Anime - Is It The Beginning Or The End for TBATE?
Chris and Lucas look at what went wrong enough in The Beginning After The End that the original creator felt the need to say something.
― Chris and Lucas look at what went wrong enough in The Beginning After the End that the original creator felt the need to say something. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler...
This Week in Anime - Stop-Motion Sensation
Coop and Steve explore the sometimes cute, sometimes creepy world of stop-motion animation.
― Coop and Steve explore the sometimes cute, sometimes creepy world of stop-motion animation. CONTENT WARNING: This edition of This Week in Anime features discussion and images of titles that contain intense violence, blood, and other potentially upsetting subject matter. Reader discretion is advised. Disclai...
Answerman - How Hard Was it to Get the UK Rights for Dragon Ball Z?
Jerome shares his very personal experience navigating the in-fighting within Toei branches, the parent company of Dragon Ball Z.
― Michael asks: “How challenging was it for Manga UK to originally acquire the rights for Dragon Ball Z?” Whoa! Triggered! Reflecting on my negotiations with Toei Animation regarding the license acquisition of all 291 episodes of Dragon Ball Z, along with the various anima...
This Week in Games - You Can't OutRun The Future
Michael Bay and Sydney Sweeney gear up for a new game movie, VTuber Nekomata Okayu's visual novel is going to the States, and Blizzard is preparing two big tie-in campaigns. Play on in This Week in Games!
― Welcome back, folks! Seems like I need to make some space in my life for The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy. I don't know anything about it other than that it's from AI: The Somnium Files's Uc...
This Week in Anime - Which Anime Witch Is This?
Chris and Steve put on their pointy hats and hop on their brooms to magic up some witchy anime.
― Chris and Steve put on their pointy hats and hop on their brooms to magic up some witchy anime. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams Witch Watch, Ma...
This Week in Anime - Coop and Lucas' Bizarre Anime Column
Coop and Lucas join JoJo on a bizarre adventure.
― Coop and Lucas join JoJo on a bizarre adventure. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams JoJo's Bizarre Adventure parts 1 - 5, Anne Shirley, and SHIROBAKO.
Netflix streams JoJo's Bizarre Adventure: ...
The Anime Backlog - Mobile Suit Gundam - The Movie Trilogy
Lynzee suits up for her maiden voyage aboard White Base and now she never wants to leave.
― Happy Friday, 'Loggers! I'm back after a brief hiatus that involved a two-week stint in Japan to cover the AnimeJapan event, attend no less than 20 meetings, and venture out to an animation studio to film and interview some pretty prominent veterans (keep an eye out for that). In the midst of my journey, I th...
This Week in Games - Prices and Princesses
Tariffs continue to destabilize the gaming market as Nintendo and Sony annouce price adjustments. Plus, a new daughter-raising game in Magical Princess and the Chainsaw Man director's latest is a...Roblox game?
― —I have to do. ... Ah, it worked! Welcome back, folks! I pulled double-duty on both This Week in... columns, not unlike that time an ongoing story in Kamen Rider Gaim was interrupted for a K...
This Week in Anime - Whoops! Can't Show That On a Christian Anime Site!
Chris and a very special guest see what's behind OceanVeil's diaphanous drapes.
― Chris and a very special guest see what's behind OceanVeil's diaphanous drapes. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @mouse_inhouse @vestenet Chris Alright, work ...
For all articles, see the archives