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Answerman - Is Overtourism in Japan Real and Why is Japan Mad at Tourists?

Have a couple of bad actors ruined it for everyone? Jerome gives some context on 'overtourism' and what to do when traveling abroad. ― Alex asks: In the last couple of years, Japan has implemented major restrictions on tourists in areas like Kyoto. My question is, what have tourists done to upset the Japanese to the point that such measures had to be taken? You are absolutely right. In March this ye...
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The Anime Backlog - Princess Tutu

Lynzee takes on one of the esteemed magical girl classics to see if this is a real fairy tale or a shadowplay. ― Happy holidays Loggers, I hope your celebration preparations aren't stressing you out too much. Everyone has their own traditions, whether it's Black Friday shopping, decorating sugar cookies, hitching up lights on the roof, or, in my case, seeing a seasonal show. While there are some exc...
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This Week in Games - Mai, Now Buy

Mai Shiranui is coming to Street Fighter 6! Jean-Karlo takes a look at her design changes over the years (with specific measurements). ― Welcome back, folks! For folks who haven't kept up with me at BlueSky, I've teased a little something-something that I've decided to gift myself for the holidays. I make sure I don't make This Week in Games the "Here's What I Bought This Week" column, but this is so...
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This Week in Anime - Is GQuuuuuuX Gundam's FLCL?

With the announcement of GQuuuuuuX and its creative team, Coop and Chris take a look at FLCL and ponder what the two series might have in common. ― With the announcement of GQuuuuuuX and its creative team, Coop and Chris take a look at FLCL and ponder what the two series might have in common. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime ...
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The ANN Aftershow - The DAN DA DAN Episode Where Everyone's Naked

Clothes are mostly optional as the DAN DA DAN crew fight aliens at school! What happens when they all merge into one super-evil entity?! ― The DAN DA DAN Episode Where Everyone's Naked Clothes are mostly optional as the Dan Da Dan crew fight aliens at school! What happens when they all merge into one super-evil entity?! The views and opinions expressed in the After Show belong solely to the show's p...
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This Week in Anime - Middle Earth, Circa 1978

Before the new The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim anime film comes out, Steve and Lucas take a trip back to 1978 to talk about the original animated version. ― Before the new The Lord of the Rings: The War of the Rohirrim anime film comes out, Steve and Lucas take a trip back to 1978 to talk about the original animated version. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the particip...
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The ANN Aftershow - DAN DA DAN's Newest Alien is a One-Two Punch!

James and Lynzee go face-to-face with Nessie and mantis shrimp alien in this week's DAN DA DAN! Plus, the latest news about the Netflix anime leaks, Miyazaki's surprising award statement, and the Sonic 3 trailer! DAN DA DAN's Newest Alien is a One-Two Punch! James and Lynzee go face-to-face with Nessie and mantis shrimp alien in this week's Dan Da Dan! Plus, the latest news about the Netflix anime...
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This Week in Games - Fire Breath, Radioactive Breath, and Tales of Breath

Godzilla joins the ever-expanding cast of pop culture characters in Fortnite, plus Jean-Karlo fondly remembers Breath of Fire II for its anniversary. ― Welcome back, folks! Thanksgiving Weekend was a great time; not only was the holiday well-spent among friends and loved ones, but I was able to catch up plenty in Xenoblade Chronicles 3! I was able to do a good chunk of the personal quests for the mai...
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This Week in Anime - Going Down Stream

Coop and Steve ponder the streaming landscape and how ridiculously impossible they've made it to get a decent screencap. ― Coop and Steve ponder the streaming landscape and how ridiculously impossible they've made it to get a decent screencap. 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...
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The ANN Aftershow - Acro-Silky's Past is HEARTBREAKING

We'll talk briefly about the Sony/Kadokawa situation, get back in the swing of things with DAN DA DAN, and check in our heretics in Orb this week. ― Acro-Silky's Past is HEARTBREAKING We'll talk briefly about the Sony/Kadokawa situation, get back in the swing of things with Dan Da Dan, and check in our heretics in Orb this week. The views and opinions expressed in the After Show belong solely to the...
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This Week in Anime - The Wheel of Anime Adaptations

Chris and Lucas look at where anime series come from when you get down to the nitty-gritty of adaptation from other mediums. ― Chris and Lucas look at where anime series come from when you get down to the nitty-gritty of adaptation from other mediums. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussio...
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The ANN Aftershow - A Letter from the Executive Editor

Executive editor Lynzee Loveridge, co-host James Beckett, and contributors to the editorial department share the importance of fandom inclusivity and hope. ― A Letter from the Executive Editor Today's After Show is different. Resources: InclusiveTherapists.com/crisis -Call Blackline 800-604-5841 (Centers BIPOC, LGBTQ, Black Femme Lens) -Trans Lifeline 877-565-8860 (US), 887-330-6366 (Canada) -Wildfl...
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Answerman - What is 'NAFCA' and How Are They Trying to Help Animators?

Jerome talks with Nippon Anime & Film Culture Association representative Ayano Fukumiya about labor shortages and other issues affecting Japan's anime production. ― Worried in Wisconsin asks: I am alarmed to read more and more news stories about what sounds like an existential crisis for the Japanese anime industry. Headlines such as "Anime in crisis: Japan's signature art form at risk" seem to sugg...
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This Week in Games - Thanks, Nintendo DS. ThanDS.

This week we celebrate the Nintendo DS' 20th birthday—and also pontificate about Sony's announcement of their own new portable console being in development. ― Welcome back, folks. Hey, so like, who was going to tell me M.A.O voices Snow White in Goddess of Victory: Nikke? I've been keen on her ever since watching her in Kazoku Sentai Gokaiger and have tried to keep up with her many voice-acting appea...
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This Week in Anime - Reheating Anime Leftovers

Chris and Lucas ponder how anime is rebooting old franchises like they're reheating turkey after Thanksgiving. ― Chris and Lucas ponder how anime is rebooting old franchises like they're reheating turkey after Thanksgiving. 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. Ranma...
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Answerman - Why is Sony Offering to Buy Kadokawa?

Sony has made an offer to Kadokawa to purchase the multimedia conglomerate. What does this mean for the anime industry, and why does Sony want Kadokawa in the first place? ― George P. asks: I've noticed that several anime companies and distributors have been purchased by Sony: Right Stuf, Crunchy, and Funimation. They are currently in negotiations with Kadokawa. Why is this occurring now? Are big co...
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This Week in Games - Welcome Back To The Stage

The Game Award nominees are out with contentious rule changes, like including DLC for "Game of the Year." Plus, Shenmue III finds a new home and Riviera is coming to Switch! ― Welcome back, folks! I had a fun experience this past weekend: I checked out a local game store and played a few rounds of the Digimon card game. It's really fun! I'm especially taken with the "Hatching" mechanic, where you can...
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This Week in Anime - For the Fans[ervice]

Chris and Lucas plumb the depths of fanservice and censorship and the lengths some shows will go to to avoid showing nipples. ― Chris and Lucas plumb the depths of fanservice and censorship and the lengths some shows will go to to avoid showing nipples. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discuss...
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This Week in Anime - Libraries are Fun!

Coop and Steve discover the wonderful world of libraries and all of the anime and manga goodness they give you access to. ― Coop and Steve discover the wonderful world of libraries and all of the anime and manga goodness they give you access to. 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...
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Answerman - Why is there a huge push for Western companies to make their own original anime content?

Jerome discusses collaborations between Western and Japanese animation studios. ― Mister M. asks: "With the cold reception for Adult Swim's Uzumaki adaptation, there's been a lot of blame placed on Warner Bros. Discovery and AS for its failure and how 'Western companies need to stay out of anime.' But I want to know why there is a huge push for Western companies to make their own original anime cont...
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The Anime Backlog - Pet Shop of Horrors

Lynzee tackles another Madhouse classic featuring mermaids, kirin, medusa, and heaping piles of killer rabbits. ― Hey there Loggers*, I hope you all had a great Halloween! We're moving into the festive months of the year but it's always Samhain in my heart. If you're wondering what's kept me busy lately, go take a look at Fall Manga Guide, the Fall Light Novel Guide, the K-Comics Guide, and be sure ...
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This Week in Games - Is There More 2D Zelda on the Horizon?

After the success of Echoes of Wisdom, Zelda series producer Eiji Aonuma hopes so. Plus, a Nintendo Direct from the new Donkey Kong theme park area and more! ― Welcome back, folks! We had a busy week—for one thing, that big important project that I couldn't refuse is finally out. It was reviewing Dragon Quest III HD-2D Remake! The review is out now. Getting to cover Dragon Quest III was a blast, and ...
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This Week in Anime - What's Going On With BLUE LOCK'S Animation?

Chris and Coop dig into the awkward animation mess that is Blue Lock's second season and wonder whether or not the industry will manage to change. ― Chris and Coop dig into the awkward animation mess that is Blue Lock's second season and wonder whether or not the industry will manage to change. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anim...
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This Week in Anime - Looking Back

Steve and Lucas discuss creator Tatsuki Fujimoto and director Kiyotaka Oshiyama's Look Back film in all of its heartbreaking glory. ― Steve and Lucas discuss creator Tatsuki Fujimoto and director Kiyotaka Oshiyama's Look Back film in all of its heartbreaking glory. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning...
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Answerman - Why is the nudity removed from the Ranma 1/2 remake?

Jerome discusses the recent "kewpie-fication" of Ranma in MAPPA's animated remake of the classic series. ― The internet asks: "Why is the nudity removed from the Ranma 1/2 remake?" [context: it's not censored; the new version doesn't include nipples like the previous version, and Ranma's been kewpie-dolled. Butt cracks were removed in a bath scene, too.”] This wouldn't be an Answerman column if we d...
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This Week in Games - Nintendo Numbers, Steam Stoppages, and Lots of Virtual Fistfights

Mere mortals can't hope to understand Steam's rationale for what makes a game "inappropriate" for their platform. ― Welcome back, folks. I figured the anniversary of my accident would be the toughest part of this week, but it looks like fate had other plans in store. On the other hand, I at least feel encouraged; if I can survive a car, I can survive a lot else. Besides, I have a column to write—some...
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This Week in Anime - X-ing Over

Steve and Lucas follow the migration of anime fans from Twitter /X to Bluesky and trade fond (and not-so-fond) memories of other online spaces where we used to congregate. ― Steve and Lucas follow the migration of anime fans from Twitter/X to Bluesky and trade fond (and not-so-fond) memories of other online spaces where we used to congregate. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the parti...
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This Week in Anime - On the Grid

Chris and Coop can't contain their excitement about Gridman Universe—even as they wonder why it took so long to get an official release. ― Chris and Coop can't contain their excitement about Gridman Universe—even as they wonder why it took so long to get an official release. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoil...
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The ANN Aftershow - DAN DA DAN's Race to the Finish!

It's one of the most impressive chase scenes to put to animation this week in DAN DA DAN! Plus, the Catholic Church adopts a new mascot and one voice actor is going rogue after alleging Crunchyroll gave away his fan mail and gifts. DAN DA DAN's Race to the Finish! It's one of the most impressive chase scenes to put to animation this week in DAN DA DAN! Plus, the Catholic Church adopts a new mascot...
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This Week in Games - Stuck On A Whole Different Planet

Game preservation takes a hit while several old games get a new lease on life, offline and with a new port! ― Welcome back, folks! I have a bit of a "behind the scenes" bit for you guys from last week's column; while writing about Poncle (the creator of Vampire Survivors), I had apparently flubbed up the spelling at one point. So until my editor caught it, I had written: "Poncleoncle doing what Konam...
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This Week in Anime - A Magical Season

Chris and Steve explore this season's magical girl offerings while threatening to recategorize the whole genre. It's a magical free-for-all, from Minky Momo to Acro Trip! ― Chris and Steve explore this season's magical girl offerings while threatening to recategorize the whole genre. It's a magical free-for-all, from Minky Momo to Acro Trip! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the partic...
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This Week in Anime - Uzumaki Spiraled Out of Control

Lucas and Coop discuss the recent Junji Ito anime catastrophe: Adult Swim's Uzumaki adaptation. ― Lucas and Coop discuss the recent Junji Ito anime catastrophe: Adult Swim's Uzumaki adaptation. 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. Uzumaki is streaming and available ...
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Answerman - The Return of Answerman (And Why Companies Bother to Take Down Piracy Websites)

Anime industry veteran Jerome Mazandarani takes up the Answerman mantle to answer your burning questions! ― Hello! I'm Jerome, and I'm honored to be your new Answerman correspondent. I started my anime career 20 years ago with Manga Entertainment, one of the OG anime labels operating in the West. I've distributed thousands of hours of anime and even had a hand in making a couple, too. I know the bus...
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The ANN Aftershow - MILFs are OUT, GILFs are IN!

DAN DA DAN introduces anime's hottest grandma! ― MILFs are OUT, GILFs are IN! Dan Da Dan introduces anime's hottest grandma! The ANN After Show streams live on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter Spaces on Tuesdays at 6pm PT/9pm ET. You can listen to the podcast version on Wednesdays on Spotify, Apple Music, and wherever you listen to your favorite podcasts. The ANN After Show is part of the BLEAV Networ...
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This Week in Games - What A Horrible Halloween To Have A Column

AI translation rears its head again, Masahiro Sakurai stunts on everyone, Castlevania comes to Vampire Survivors, and Jean-Karlo has five games to bring in the spooky season. ― Welcome back, folks! The Fall Manga Guide is finally up, and with it a lot of behind-the-scenes work I was doing. Does that mean I finally have time to play Xenoblade Chronicles 3? Nope! Not only do I have to prepare my panels...
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The Anime Backlog - Symphogear

After over 10 years, Lynzee tries out Symphogear but like a song played off-key, she can't quite connect with its incongruent elements. ― Hi everyone, how are you enjoying the new anime season? While it's not doing any favors for my ever-growing backlog, I've rounded out my must-watch to about four shows: Dan Da Dan, Orb, Blue Box, and Ranma 1/2. Coincidentally, they're all airing on Netflix this ti...
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This Week in Anime - Merging Lanes: TOHO's Acquisition of GKIDS

With the recent announcement of TOHO's acquisition of GKIDS, Lucas and Steve discuss the rise corporate influence in the anime space. ― With the recent announcement of TOHO's acquisition of GKIDS, Lucas and Steve discuss the rise corporate influence in the anime space. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler War...
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This Week in Anime - DAN DA DAN's Tokusatsu Connection

Coop joins the TWIA team just in time to discuss how DAN DA DAN is a love letter to Ultraman with Chris. Tokusatsu love is the purest love of all. ― Coop joins the TWIA team just in time to discuss how DAN DA DAN is a love letter to Ultraman with Chris. Tokusatsu love is the purest love of all. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anim...
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The ANN Aftershow - I'm Sorry, They Stole His What?!

DAN DA DAN is wild! We’re also checking in on Orb after that big episode three plot twist. Plus, news on the Pokemon leak and impressions of Silent Hill 2! ― I'm Sorry, They Stole His What?! DAN DA DAN is wild! The animation is top-tier, and the story is truly original. It is living up to the hype! We're also checking in on Orb after that big episode three plot twist. Plus, news on the Pokemon leak ...
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This Week in Games - Game Freak's Teraleak

The huge leak of alleged info is already showing some holes in its authenticity, plus video game legend Nobuo Uematsu isn't retiring YET, and more of the latest gaming news. ― Welcome back, folks! I'm not much of a MiHoYo fan. It's nothing personal; I just don't gel with their games—the gacha rates are too unfair, in my opinion, and the games straddle that uncomfortable zone where they're too sophist...
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This Week in Anime - Reincarnated in Another Column

Another season, another glut of isekai. Chris and Lucas do their best to tackle the unending pile. ― New season, new glut of isekai! Chris and Lucas hold their noses and jump into this season's pool, looking for new species as the genre evolves. 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...
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The ANN Aftershow - This Anime Movie Will Make You Cry!

Lynzee and James discuss the Look Back anime film from studio Durian, Uzumaki pissing away all of its goodwill, and some of the best anime premieres for Fall 2024! ― This Anime Movie Will Make You Cry! Lynzee and James discuss the Look Back anime film from studio Durian, Uzumaki pissing away all of its goodwill, and some of the best anime premieres for Fall 2024! The ANN After Show streams live on Y...
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This Week in Games - The Ninja Engine Alarm Column

This week is packed with live-action movies, alarm clocks to get you waking up to the soothing sounds of Breath of the Wild, and a brand-new game engine! ― Welcome back, folks! October is in full swing, bringing with it Inktober, the yearly month-long hashtag where artists try to produce a single-inked drawing every day. One of my favorite artists made a neat Bunnygirl, Alma Armas, and was selling th...
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This Week in Games - Tilting at Windmills Instead of Dragons

Jean-Karlo levels with the audience about supposed Dragon Quest censorship, catches up on Tokyo Game Show announcements, and celebrates Monolith's 25th anniversary. ― Welcome back, folks! I had a great time at Portland Retro Game Expo last week. We had a weird bit where someone triggered the fire alarm, and we had to wait outside for a few minutes, but it was a great time overall. I got to meet some ...
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The ANN Aftershow - The Uzumaki Anime is Almost Perfect

The Uzumaki anime is out, and the visuals and music live up to the hype. Still, one thing isn't quite right...also our two favorite shows of the season have come to an end, so join us as we discuss the final episodes of Dead Dead Demon's Dedededestruction and Yatagarasu! ― The New Madoka Anime is Really Happening! The Uzumaki anime is out, and the visuals and music live up to the hype. Still, one th...
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The Anime Backlog - Macross Plus

With only hazy memories from a satellite TV airing in the '90s, Lynzee takes her first full foray into Macross. ― While in New York last month, I had the opportunity to attend the Macross Plus movie screening with special guest Shōji Kawamori. I had not seen the film in its entirety before, although I'm somewhat sure I'd seen the climax on some satellite channel when I was about 12. I'm fairly confi...
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This Week in Games - Sony's State of Play and Level-5's To The World's Children

Jean-Karlo gets in deep in the Pal World lawsuit and gaming's history with patents. ― Welcome back, folks! I was surprised by the reception to last week's column; we had more than a few folks who responded positively to the Freedom Wars news. That makes me happy! I can't cover a lot of these obscure games getting revivals, but I live for seeing folks excited to see their obscure favorites getting bro...
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The ANN Aftershow - The New Madoka Anime is Really Happening!

Aniplex made some big announcements this week, including a new teaser trailer for Madoka Magica: Walpurgisnacht! ― The New Madoka Anime is Really Happening! Aniplex made some big announcements this week, including a new teaser trailer for Madoka Magica: Walpurgisnacht! Tune in to find out more about the latest anime news and the penultimate episodes of Yatagarasu and Dead Dead Demon's Dedededestruct...
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This Week in Games - Nintendo Lays Down the Law

Jean-Karlo evaluates Nintendo's decision to file suit against Pal World developer Pocketpair, has some advice for fighting game fans, plus more game news than you can shake a joystick at! ― Welcome back, everyone! It's the week before the Tokyo Game Show, so there's very clearly not a lot to talk about. Yep, this is definitely a slow column, I tell you what; no big surprises happened this week. ... O...
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This Week in Anime - Anime Pirates Off the Port Bow

Amidst a record number of site closures, Nick and Lucas discuss sailing the high seas of anime piracy. ― Amidst a record number of site closures, Nick and Lucas discuss sailing the high seas of anime piracy. 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, Naruto, De...
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This Week in Anime - The Tribulations of Fan Anime

The new Berserk animation has been disavowed, but is this the only case of publishers coming down hard on fan creations? Steve and Chris dive into the world of doujin to find out. ― The new Berserk animation has been disavowed, but is this the only case of publishers coming down hard on fan creations? Steve and Chris dive into the world of doujin to find out. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expre...
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The ANN Aftershow - Dead Dead Demon Anime's Big Cliff-Hanger!

15 minutes until the destruction of Earth?! Dead Dead Demon’s Dedededestruction enters its end game. Meanwhile, Yatagarasu also has a huge reveal about its world and everything we thought we knew. Dead Dead Demon Anime's Big Cliff-Hanger! 15 minutes until the destruction of Earth?! Dead Dead Demon's Dedededestruction enters its end game. Meanwhile, Yatagarasu also has a huge reveal about its world...
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The ANN Aftershow - Florida Book Ban Comes for Manga

Lynzee and James look at the latest book ban case to come out of Florida: Sasaki and Miyano volume 1, and share their favorite queer manga. Plus, Yatagarasu and Dead Dead Demon catch-up time! ― Florida Book Ban Comes for Manga Lynzee and James look at the latest book ban case to come out of Florida: Sasaki and Miyano volume 1, and share their favorite queer manga. Plus, Yatagarasu and Dead Dead Demo...
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The Anime Backlog - Gunbuster

We're checking out Gainax's 1988 hit for the very first time! Hideaki Anno made his big directorial debut and with it, history. ― Hi there, loyal readers! Convention season is finally over, so hopefully, I can get the Anime Backlog out a bit more consistently. I already have my next column after this one in the bag, allowing more leeway to dive into some longer series on my 100+ title spreadsheet. W...
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This Week in Games - The Many Mixed Fortunes of Sony

Sony nails it with a sure-fire platformer only to whiff it with the PS5 Pro announcement. Plus, the inspiration for Type-Moon's Arcueid Brunestud is discovered! ― Welcome back, folks! Because I don't keep myself busy enough, I've gotten some Discord buddies together and will be starting a Mage: The Ascension campaign with them soon! I have a lot of love for Mage; it's a messy system, but it was the f...
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This Week in Anime - The Movie Game

Chris and Steve dig into the venerable institution that is game-based movies and anime and the relationship between anime and video games. ― Chris and Steve dig into the venerable institution that is game-based movies and anime and the relationship between anime and video games. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.S...
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The ANN Aftershow - Yatagarasu Anime Finally Returns

After a long (Olympic) break, we finally return to Yatagarasu to see if we can find out the truth behind that weird monkey monster. Yatagarasu Anime Finally Returns After a long (Olympic) break, we finally return to Yatagarasu to see if we can find out the truth behind that weird monkey monster. The ANN After Show streams live on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter Spaces on Tuesdays at 6pm PT/9pm ET. ...
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This Week in Games - Good News, Bad News, and Just News

An overlooked ninja game, the death of the Visions of Mana studio, and a CAPCOM stalwart moves on to new pastures. ― Welcome back, folks! I had a nice experience this past weekend; I decided to visit my local GameStop to see if they had some titles I was looking for (I wanted Shadow of the Ninja Reborn and Gravity Circuit). They didn't have 'em, but they were nice enough to try and put the order thro...
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This Week in Anime - Cashing In

Chris and Lucas dive into the Sargasso Sea of marketable plastic goodies and the all-consuming monster that is capitalism in the anime world. ― Chris and Lucas dive into the Sargasso Sea of marketable plastic goodies and the all-consuming monster that is capitalism in the anime world. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Net...
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This Week in Anime - Banned Together

Demonizing comics hasn't gone out of style since 1954. Nick and Steve discuss the most recent round of bans of such horrifying series as Sasaki and Miyano to look at what book bans mean for manga today. ― Demonizing comics hasn't gone out of style since 1954. Nick and Steve discuss the most recent round of bans of such horrifying series as Sasaki and Miyano to look at what book bans mean for manga t...
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This Week in Games - Nintendo Indie Direct + Partner Showcase for August 2024

Also, Brazilian Miku, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, and some adult visual novels. ― Welcome back, folks! I discovered over the weekend: I don't think I like elk burgers. A local bar in my town offered them and I was feeling adventurous, but elk tastes a bit too game-y. Parmesan rosemary fries are killer, though. Also, my review for That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime ISEKAI CHRONICLES went up earlier thi...
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This Week in Anime - Retro Anime, Kickstarter, and Broken Promises

This week, Steve and Chris use the whole Dirty Pair Kickstarter/Crunchyroll acquisition fiasco to explore the relationship between crowdfunding and anime. ― This week, Steve and Chris use the whole Dirty Pair Kickstarter/Crunchyroll acquisition fiasco to look into the relationship between crowdfunding and anime. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not...
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This Week in Anime - So Your Favorite Manga is Ending...

With the recent end of My Hero Academia and impending conclusion of Jujutsu Kaisen, Nick and Lucas spoiler-tastically talk all about manga endings—the good, the bad, and the utterly insane. ― With the recent end of My Hero Academia and impending conclusion of Jujutsu Kaisen, Nick and Lucas spoiler-tastically talk all about manga endings—the good, the bad, and the utterly insane. Disclaimer: The view...
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This Week in Games - Hungry Wolves, Alluring Ninja, and a Stingy Hedgehog

Catch up on all the latest gaming news this week, from Fatal Fury to Nintendo's new museum in Japan! ― Welcome back, everyone! I've shot myself in the foot; with Manga Preview Guide on the horizon, I've decided to help cover some manga instead of playing Xenoblade Chronicles. Mea culpa, but I can't help it; a lot of interesting stuff comes out every season, and Manga Preview Guide is normally how I f...
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This Week in Anime - Having Fun with Deadpool's Fourth Wall-Breaking Manga

With Deadpool & Wolverine becoming the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time, join Nick and Chris as they dive headlong in Deadpool's recent foray into manga. ― With Deadpool & Wolverine becoming the highest-grossing R-rated movie of all time, join Nick and Chris as they dive headlong in Deadpool's recent foray into manga. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this...
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This Week in Anime - Visual Novels Aren't A Joke

Now that the Type-Moon's visual novels have a new lease on life in English, Lucas and Steve look at other great entries in the medium. Visual novels aren't just April Fool's jokes! ― Now that the Type-Moon's visual novels have a new lease on life in English, Lucas and Steve look at other great entries in the medium. Visual novels aren't just April Fool's jokes! Disclaimer: The views and opinions exp...
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The ANN Aftershow - Navigating Toxic Fandom Discourse

Lynzee and James catch up on Dead Dead Demon and have a long conversation about navigating toxic fandom discourse. Navigating Toxic Fandom Discourse Lynzee and James catch up on Dead Dead Demon and have a long conversation about navigating toxic fandom discourse. The ANN After Show streams live on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter Spaces on Tuesdays at 6pm PT/9pm ET. You can listen to the podcast ver...
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This Week in Games - Mourning Rachael Lillis

Jean-Karlo shares the importance of Rachael Lillis' Pokémon dub work as well as some upcoming anime x game collabs to keep an eye on! ― Welcome back, folks! It's been a heck of a week for me, being a humble VTuber fan; earlier this week was my favorite VTuber Silvervale's birthday (a fun time was had by all), and then the very next day my interview with Mori Calliope went live! I never thought I'd ge...
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The ANN Aftershow - Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction Anime is INSANE

Everyone, you're sleeping on this anime! Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction is totally wild, shocking, and eye-opening! Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction Anime is INSANE Everyone, you're sleeping on this anime! Dead Dead Demon's Dededede Destruction is totally wild, shocking, and eye-opening! James and Lynzee are here to tell you why you need to watch it right now! The ANN After Show stre...
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This Week in Anime - The Anime Community's Leak Culture

Nick and Steve discuss the recent episode leaks and how they connect to the anime community's larger culture of speedscans and other leaked announcements. ― Over the last week, a major leak seemed to stem from compromised files at Iyuno, which led to the first season of the Ranma 1/2 reboot and Terminator Zero, as well as multiple episodes of DAN DA DAN and the Gekijōban Mononoke: Karakasa movie app...
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The Anime Backlog - Millennium Actress

This Satoshi Kon film is as timeless as its leading lady. ― We're in between conventions, faithful readers, so it's time to scratch another one off the backlog. I have just enough time to get reacclimated to my timezone from Washington DC to throw it in the trash before heading to New York City. With all this thought on the ephemeral and transcendental concept of time, let's throw in a movie that en...
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This Week in Games - Unlimited Glitch Works

A weird start levels out to some pretty exciting news for Fate fans! Plus, the newest Zelda developments, some adult games are put out to pasture, and fandom shows its ugly side. ― Welcome back, folks! Folks know I love Digimon, and I feel bad for forgetting about Odaiba Day last week. I've spoken out about dumb "nerd holidays" like May 4 or March 10, but Pokémon Day and Odaiba Day at least make sens...
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This Week in Anime - The Staying Power of the Monogatari Series

This week, Chris and Steve talk about Monogatari's long-lasting appeal—and see how far they can go before mentioning the infamous toothbrushing scene. ― This week, Chris and Steve talk about Monogatari's long-lasting appeal—and see how far they can go before mentioning the infamous toothbrushing scene. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views...
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This Week in Anime - Sports Anime and the Olympics

This week, Nick and Lucas talk about the most "anime-like" moments of this year's Olympics as they dive into the greater relationship between sports anime and the Olympics. ― This week, Nick and Lucas talk about the most anime-like moments of this year's Olympics as they dive into the greater relationship between sports anime and the Olympics. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the part...
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This Week in Games - Classic Visual Novels Get a New Lease on Life

ToHeart, Katawa Shoujo, and Castle of Shikigami III have re-releases in the works. Also, have you ever wondered why there was no Mario & Sonic Olympics game released this year? ― Welcome back, folks! I had someone ask in the comments to last week's column why I hadn't mentioned the SAG-AFTRA strike with voice actors in the U.S. The simple answer: the news came in after our cut-off time. Nevertheless,...
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This Week in Anime - Can an Anime be "Carried by its Animation"?

This week, Nick and Lucas sit down and tried to decide if saying a show is "carried by its animation" actually has any meaning due to the subjective nature of art. ― This week, Nick and Lucas sit down and tried to decide if saying a show is "carried by its animation" actually has any meaning due to the subjective nature of art. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this...
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This Week in Anime - The Algorithm Demands More Anime

Christopher and Steve look into the recent mini-trend of content creator-focused anime series and how it reflects current entertainment trends. ― Christopher and Steve look into the recent mini-trend of content creator-focused anime series and how it reflects current entertainment trends. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News...
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The ANN Aftershow - What Is Going on in the Elusive Samurai Anime?

Lynzee and James strap in for more beheadings than humanly possible in the strange mix of comedic violence that is Elusive Samurai. Plus, our favorite bird people are back in Yatagarasu! ― What Is Going on in the Elusive Samurai Anime? Lynzee and James strap in for more beheadings than humanly possible in the strange mix of comedic violence that is Elusive Samurai. Plus, our favorite bird people are...
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This Week in Games - EVO 2024: Back from the Dead

Jean-Karlo's here to get you up to date with the latest news from EVO, including a Tekken 8 upset and the weird way to fix your GameCube controller. ― Welcome back, folks! My longtime readers will know that we don't just obsess over Xenoblade and Izuna over here—I'm also a huge tokusatsu fan. This is why I finally checked out Ultraman Rising over the weekend. It's brilliant! It's a phenomenal animate...
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This Week in Anime - How to Make Your Anime a Meme

My Deer Friend Nokotan made a big impression before its premiere with an hours-long video and other social media efforts to stay at the forefront of the otaku consciousness. Did it work? ― My Deer Friend Nokotan made a big impression before its premiere with an hours-long video and other social media efforts to stay at the forefront of the otaku consciousness. Did it work? Disclaimer: The views and ...
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This Week in Anime - Crunchyroll Silences Their Viewers

No more commenting on episode pages or news articles! Crunchyroll has axed their comments section completely. Was this change due to homophobic content or simple corporate laziness? Lucas and Steve try to shed some light on what happened. ― No more commenting on episode pages or news articles! Crunchyroll has axed their comments section completely. Was this change due to homophobic content or simple...
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This Week in Games - How to Accumulate Karma

The best way is through cannibalism! (Well, at least according to Shin Megami Tensei: Digital Devil Saga it is.) ― Welcome back, folks! This past week saw the 21st anniversary of Boktai: The Sun Is In Your Hands!. My long-time readers know I have a ton of love for those games, having grown up with them and sunk my teeth into them long before I ever played a Metal Gear Solid game (fitting, since Hideo...
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This Week in Anime - Caught Up in this Season's Whirlwind of Romance Anime

This week, Lucas and Nick sit down to talk about the surprisingly vast number of romance anime this season—and struggle to decide which are actually worth watching. ― This week, Lucas and Nick sit down to talk about the surprisingly vast number of romance anime this season—and struggle to decide which are actually worth watching. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in th...
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The ANN Aftershow - The BEST Anime Premieres of Summer 2024

This week, we're going to dive into the best premieres of the new anime season, give you a hefty news update from Anime Expo, and probably go on at least two (2) side tangents! ― The BEST Anime Premieres of Summer 2024 Welcome back to the ANN After Show! This week, we're going to dive into the best premieres of the new anime season, give you a hefty news update from Anime Expo, and probably go on at...
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This Week in Anime - Isekai Fans Are Eating Good This Season

Chris and Steve do the seasonal isekai anime gauntlet and find that summer's is looking exceptionally good in another world. ― Chris and Steve do the seasonal isekai anime gauntlet and find that summer's is looking exceptionally good in another world. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussio...
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The Anime Backlog - Alien 9

Lynzee dusts off an old DVD and discovers an OAV full of gory action sequences and 12-year-old girls frequently crying for their mommies. ― Thank you everyone for patiently tuning in to another edition of The Anime Backlog. As you can guess, last week (and three weeks leading up to it) was one the busiest for me while I coordinated Anime Expo coverage. You can expect two editions of The Anime Backlo...
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This Week in Games - Pokémon, Kaiju, and Pals

Jean-Karlo deep-dives into Pokémon's Ultraman origins, the big update to Palworld, and classic games making a comeback! ― Welcome back, folks! I've been playing the much-anticipated summer event in Goddess of Victory: NIKKE. It's what you expect: the bathing suits are scandalous, and the Live2D animations are Live2D, but the story is surprisingly good. It's not Shakespeare, but the NIKKE events do a ...
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This Week in Anime - What Is This, An Anime Crossover Episode?

Lucas and Chris recall some of the strangest and most surprising crossover episodes in anime history. Which are your favorite? ― Lucas and Chris recall some of the strangest and most surprising crossover episodes in anime history. Which are your favorite? Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discu...
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This Week in Games - Diving Into The Crunchyroll Vault

This week, we take a look at the Crunchyroll Games Vault, the implications of Final Fantasy creator Hironobu Sakaguchi working with Square Enix again, and sad demise of Mega Man X DiVE. ― Welcome back, folks! I've reached a rather embarrassing situation with my Nintendo Switch: I'm running out of space on the console. I've installed so many games over the years that my 256-gig SD card only has about ...
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This Week in Anime - Is Suicide Squad ISEKAI DC's Best Anime Adaptation to Date?

Suicide Squad ISEKAI is DC Comic's latest journey into the world of anime and manga but it's far from the first. So how does it stack up to previous attempts? And what about the anime-inspired critical darling My Adventures with Superman? Suicide Squad ISEKAI is DC Comic's latest journey into the world of anime and manga but it's far from the first. So how does it stack up to previous attempts? An...
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This Week in Games - Need-To-Know Nintendo and Neptune Goes To Brazil

Jean-Karlo weighs the pros and cons of masking the creative team behind Nintendo titles, plus a long-shelved console is making waves in Brazil! ― Welcome back, folks! As it turns out, that bit of sickness I felt last week was COVID. Thankfully, I've kept up to date on all my vaccinations; this wasn't anywhere near as bad as it could have been, and none of the people around me (that I know of) have go...
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This Week in Anime - Yatagarasu Is the Anime to Watch Right Now

Nick and Steve dive into the political intrigue of supernatural crow people and discover one of the best anime airing right now. ― Nick and Steve dive into the political intrigue of supernatural crow people and discover one of the best anime airing right now. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for d...
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The ANN Aftershow - Best Reveals from the Nintendo Direct

James and Lynzee go through the recent Nintendo Direct to discuss their most anticipated games coming out soon! ― Best Reveals from the Nintendo Direct James and Lynzee go through the recent Nintendo Direct to discuss their most anticipated games coming out soon! The ANN After Show streams live on YouTube, Facebook, and Twitter Spaces on Tuesdays at 6pm PT/9pm ET. You can listen to the podcast versi...
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The ANN Aftershow - Kaiju No. 8's Biggest Monster Yet

We're catching up on a lot of news this week from Gainax to Tohru Furuya. Kaiju No. 8's Biggest Monster Yet The newest episode of Kaiju No 8 features the team's most formidable foe so far! Plus, a new villain was revealed in Yatagarasu. We've also got even bigger news: Gainax's bankruptcy, the latest details on the Lord of the Rings anime, you can finally watch Sailor Moon Cosmos this summer and a...
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This Week in Anime - How to Watch Anime on a Budget

Chris and Lucas find their pockets stretched by the multitude of anime streaming services; let's see how far we can get using legal, free streaming! ― Chris and Lucas find their pockets stretched by the multitude of anime streaming services; let's see how far we can get using legal, free streaming! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of ...
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This Week in Games - Nintendo Direct June 2024: New Age of Hype

Nintendo's 40-minute Direct left a lot of room to get excited! Jean-Karlo dives into the latest news as well as some bonus lost gems that were recently unearthed. ― Welcome back, folks! What a wild week this has been. As you read this, I'm currently fighting off a summer cold that's been going around. The good news is, I'm just warm and congested—no sore throats (I hate having a sore throat). Not the...

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