Year: 2016

Chihayafuru Part 1 and 2 – Movie Review

Published by Luke Halliday

It is hard to imagine how a series about professional karuta, a traditional Japanese card game, could be so exciting, yet it is. Chihayafuru is one of the greatest ‘sports’ anime of all time if you could really classify it as such. The series imbues every moment with genuine excitement and a sense of beauty that is truly incomparable. One of my first thoughts when I heard it had been adapted to not one but two live action films was how would they capture the beauty of the animation, to my surprise they did it by doing something very simple; showcasing the game of karuta in reality for all its true to life wonder. These two Chihayafuru films definitely go hand in hand, as is the reason why we have decided to review them together. The first film follows karuta fanatic Chihaya as she reconnects with friends of the past and builds new friendships over the game of karuta, all in the lead up to the epic tournament finale that closes the first film out. …

Erased – Movie Review

Published by Luke Halliday

How do you take a complex multi-volume manga or its fantastic 12 episode anime adaptation and translate that into a 2 hour live action film? How do you condense that story in a way that the heart of it isn’t lost in the process? It is a difficult challenge to overcome and for the most part the live action adaptation of the time travel mystery series Erased does an admirable job, until it all falls apart in a baffling final act that betrays the audacious climactic turn of events of the source material in favour for an illogical climax that lacks the same ingenuity and emotional impact. That said, for the majority of its run time Erased is a fine adaptation, as long as you stop watching before the final act. Erased follows Satoru Fujinuma (the always fantastic Tatsuya Fujiwara), a down on his luck aspiring manga artist who works as a pizza delivery driver for a living. Satoru has a bit of a secret however, he has the innate ability to relive events with …

Kyoto Tower Lights Up For Blue Exorcist Birthday Celebration

Published by Frank Inglese

Japan has a heck of a lot of national pride, that’s for sure. When they do something, they do it well, and when it succeeds you bet your bottom dollar that everyone in the country will celebrate! Kazue Kato’s Blue Exorcist has been running for some seven years now: It quickly grew to mass popularity, and has stayed that way ever since. The Shonen Manga got itself an Anime adaptation a few years ago, with a second one on the way very soon, so there’s much for creator Kazue Kato to be happy about. With the passing of every year, Miss Kato heads online to celebrate the fictional birthday of Blue Exorcists twin heroes Rin and Yukio, with many others following her lead by creating fanart of the two celebrating another year. Well, because of the series’ increasing success, and with much more around the corner, it was not only the internet that celebrated the boys’ birthday this year but Kyoto city itself. The arc of which the upcoming Anime is focussing on is the …

“The Film Has Been Seen Enough”, Says “Your Name.” Creator Makoto Shinkai

Published by Frank Inglese

Apparently there IS such thing as too much of a good thing, at least, that’s the case for Makoto Shinkai; the creator of modern Japanese Pop Culture’s biggest film since whatever it was that Hayao Miyazaki worked on last. You would have to be living underneath a fairly large rock not to know about the recent blockbuster film Your Name. The story of two literal star-crossed lovers living out each other’s lives through dreams was created by genius writer, director, composer, animator, Makoto Shinkai. You may be familiar with Shinkai’s other popular films 5 Centimeters Per Second, Children Who Chase Lost Voices, Garden Of Words, and a few key others. Those that know of Makoto Shinkai also know that he’s somewhat of an eccentric guy, especially when it comes to that of his passion projects. He is a meticulous perfectionist, and leaves absolutely no stone unturned, and it’s thanks to this that he is now asking that people around the world STOP seeing his latest film. Seeing as it is still being shown in select …

Starting the New Year with Wrestle Kingdom 11

Published by Jahanzeb Khan

Before Wrestlemania, and hell before the Royal Rumble, there is no wrestling event that kick starts the New Year quite like Wrestle Kingdom by New Japan Pro Wrestling. Having become more widespread since Wrestle Kingdom 9, thanks to localisations efforts and the inclusion of an English color commentary team (which was great in Wrestle Kingdom 9 but certainly left A LOT to be desired in Wrestle Kingdom 10). We are now getting ready for Wrestle Kingdom 11, set to take place on January 4 2017 (January 5 for those living in the Outback) inside the one and only historic Tokyo Dome. It’s been said many times before, but this is Japan’s equivalent of Wrestlemania being held in New York’s Madison Square Garden. Wrestle Kingdom 11 certainly has a lot of buzz for it, but the star power is lacking… thanks mainly due to some of the biggest NJPW stars of the last 5 years now becoming fixtures of WWE. So much of what made Wrestle Kindgom amazing is now missing, with the likes of …

Jump Festivus – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 94

Published by Kane Bugeja

It’s a holly, jolly time of the year and the guys decide to spend it the one way they know how; conversing about the Shonen Jump popularity poll. They also give each other gifts, but that’s really more for them…unless you count their words as your gift. Congratulations if you do and enjoy the happiness that attitude brings. If you don’t…there’s always next year. -30-

Compare the Pair – Digimon World: Next Order Presents Vita and PS4 Graphics Side by Side

Published by Kane Bugeja

Oh how refreshing it is to be back in a world where Digimon games are seeing a Western release. No sarcasm there, simply genuine happiness. Doubly so considering that it is one of the few franchises that has tried to make use of the PS Vita, otherwise known as the world’s most under-utilised gaming device. That being said, Bandai Namco’s latest trailer for Digimon World: Next Order may just show reason for people’s aversion to the console. Handheld in nature, the Vita has never, and will never, compete visually with its more powerful, home-locked brother. Combined with the comparative lack of large scale releases, the Vita has seen far less attention outside of Japan. Of course this is a self fulfilling prophecy, as the lack of sales results in companies not porting to the Vita, resulting in a lack of sales, resulting in a lack of ports to the console. Nothing new there. Regardless, the Western release of Next Order shall apparently only see a PS4 release and the trailer that is about to follow ultimately …

A Touch Of Anti-Magic – Black Clover Special Anime Episode PV Released Online

Published by Frank Inglese

There are a set of modern Manga gracing the pages of Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump that make up what I’d like to call the publication’s “Comback“. In the early 90s began the “Golden Age” of Shonen Jump comics, and this spanned almost two decades until very recently wherein which those that were left over came to an end. With One Piece being the only series from the time left to continue indefinitely, Shueisha have made efforts at revitalising Shonen Jump. Gone are the days of Slam Dunk, Yu Yu Hakusho, and Rurouni Kenshin, but these new artists are paving a new way into the future. With Kohei Horikoshi’s My Hero Academia, Daisuke Ashihara’s World Trigger, and Yūto Tsukuda/Shun Saeki/Yuki Morisaki’s Food Wars! at the forefront of the serialisation’s battalion it’s hard to deny that we’ve reached another great generation of Manga production. One not mentioned, but one just as popular as those listed is Yuki Tabata’s Black Clover. A Fantasy Manga reminiscent of many others, Black Clover quickly gained quite the fanbase across the world. It’s heavy-handed but well-written combination …

First Promotional Video Revealed For Boruto: Naruto Next Generation Anime

Published by Frank Inglese

With every popular Manga comes a popular Anime series, and considering how popular Naruto still is even after it’s finale it’s only natural to assume that it’s Manga spin-off/continuation, Boruto: Naruto Next Generation, would too get it’s very own Anime adaptation. After Boruto: Naruto The Movie it was revealed that a Manga series based on the events of the film would be produced by Mikio Ikemoto and Ukyo Kodachi. The Manga, which has been running for a little while at this point in time, recounts the events of the latest film and continues onwards, telling a very familiar tale featuring some very familiar faces. TV Tokyo, who will be airing this new series, opened up a website yesterday dedicated to this upcoming Anime series. Alongside revealing the key art for the Anime, a promotional video was also posted, but it showed nothing more than scenes from both the original Anime and the aforementioned movie which disappointed some but still worked to build hype swell around a “franchise” with more than enough as it is. During this …

Yu-Gi-Oh!’s Sixth Series Revealed Courtesy Of Official Twitter

Published by Frank Inglese

Yu-Gi-Oh!, unlike many Trading Card Games of late, has withstood the test of time. Originally appearing within the pages of Shueisha’s Weekly Shonen Jump back in the later months of 1996, Yu-Gi-Oh! has continued long into the new age, albeit with every new iteration spearheaded by someone other than it’s original creator Kazuki Takahashi, who moved on from it quite some time ago. As time continued to move ever forward, more and more Yu-Gi-Oh! Anime and Manga were produced alongside that of the actual Trading Card Game, the cards of which can be found almost everywhere around the world. Yu-Gi-Oh!, like Dragon Ball Z or Pokemon, is a worldwide phenomenon that simply will never end, and yesterday that was confirmed thanks to the series’ official Twitter account which revealed that, in 2017, Yu-Gi-Oh! will return in a brand-new Anime series. So far unnamed, the sixth Yu-Gi-Oh! series will follow the life and times of a young Duelist named Yusaku Fujiki; a somewhat shy boy who wishes to be as far removed from the spotlight as …

Live-Action Tokyo Ghoul Film’s First Teaser Image Released

Published by Frank Inglese

Truth be told; I’m perplexed as to why a live-action adaptation of Sui Ishida’s hit Manga Tokyo Ghoul hasn’t already been made and released. It truly is one of the most popular Horror/Thriller Manga of contemporary times, rivalling even that of Attack On Titan and yet only now are we hearing about it’s upcoming film. Regardless, this has sent the internet into a whirlwind the likes of which only a live-action film adaptation of a hit Anime can. Partially revealed sometime ago, the live-action Tokyo Ghoul film has been in development for not as long as one would imagine. The development studio and cast behind the film have remained mostly quite about it’s progress and, in fact, the movie’s contents, but those of you who have watched or read Tokyo Ghoul can accurately guess what it is going to portray. The very first teaser image for the upcoming film has just ben released, and it shows both the main character Kaneki Ken (portrayed by actor Masataka Kubota) alongside his signature mask which, keen eyes may …

First Line Of Generation Two Pokemon Now Available In Pokemon GO

Published by Frank Inglese

Niantic, the developers behind the once-explosive, Pokemon GO have always had plans to distribute Pokemon from the series’ second generation across the world of the augmented reality video game, but specifics on when that would come about were never revealed. Educated speculation dictated that once the developers saw a decline in the popularity of the title that they would begin with the rolling out of the next generation, and it seems as though now is the appropriate time. It’s close to the end of 2016 and it is looking as though Pokemon GO has quickly run out of steam, lasting but a few months before simmering down to what it is now. Granted, those few months were absolute lunacy, with many non-players hoping that the craze would fade away sooner rather than later. Personally, I thought the game would remain far longer in the public eye but it is now little more than a memory, hopefully the introduction of baby Pokemon from Generation Two will help fuel the the train of popularity once again. The …

Yamcha Is The World’s Strongest Fighter In This New Dragon Ball Spin-Off

Published by Frank Inglese

The problem with most people of this day and age is that they only remember the bad times as they disregard the good. Yamcha, whom you should all be very much aware of, is the butt of an endless stream of jokes with many considering him to be, perhaps, the most useless characters to ever grace the pages of Akira Toriyama’s Dragon Ball Z Manga and it’s Anime adaptation. That, for the most part, is a fair point…ONLY if you’re considering Dragon Ball Z. You see, Yamcha was once quite the force to be reckoned with during the days of Dragon Ball, but time has forgotten that, and he is now only known as little more than a failure of a fighter. He WAS, for a short while, the star player of a baseball team, but that was overshadowed by, well…Goku’s constant battle against world-ending evil. Fear not, fans of Yamcha! Shonen Jump Plus, a digital Manga run by Shueisha so far only available across Japan, has begun featuring a brand-new Manga based upon Akira …

My Other Ultimate Is a Mega – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 93

Published by Kane Bugeja

You know what’s relevant to Japanese pop culture? Western cartoons and Jason Statham movies…also the Mummy reboot. Top that off with a nostalgic jaunt down Digimon Boulevarde and you’ve got yourself one (hopefully) interesting discussion that is (not entirely) certain to appease everybody. -30-

Final Fantasy XV – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

Well folks, it’s finally here; the game we’ve all been waiting for nigh on a decade now…or was it longer? Though understanding regarding the development processes of a video game vary, I think everybody can agree that they are simply happy that this period of waiting is now over. Of course, that means that everybody can now play the XV (nee Versus XIII) adventure they have so longed for, finally, and perhaps contentiously, putting that one burning question to rest; Is it as good as we’ve hoped? The Hype Train, as it has so been dubbed, is a rather perilous facet of pop culture. With passengers pinning their hopes and dreams on a station not yet reached, joy can turn to malice in an instant depending on how well their dreams and ideas mesh with the reality presented to them. Of course, this effect is only intensified by a particularly lengthy journey and with more than a decade of trailers, concepts and plans behind them, Square Enix lay bound to the tracks before this aforementioned train. …

Creepy – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

General consensus dictates that neighbours are meant to be trusted. You, as a citizen of the area, are to band together with others like yourself to form a small but tight community. You see one another on a daily basis, you interact with each other whenever you can, and because of this a specific bond is formed between yourself and your neighbours that breeds positivity in your local area. There’s nothing safer than your home, but there’s nothing that can put you more at ease than knowing that your general area is too just as safe. Fact is…the people you interact with while mowing the lawn or watering the garden aren’t the same when behind closed doors. That’s not too scary though, it’s a simple truth of this world, the frightening thing however is the severity of that difference. In Kiyoshi Kurosawa’s latest theatrical project “Creepy“, we’re taught that the world’s most dangerous people aren’t only shown on the nightly news…they could be right next door. A special “thank you” must be extended to The …

The Squids Aren’t Alright – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 92

Published by Kane Bugeja

Phew, that Death Stranding sure is a humdinger ain’t it? Two trailers, one game, a bunch of dead seafood, what’s it all about? Well, if you were looking for answers, you better believe you won’t find them here. However, if you were looking for some friendly discussion regarding the intensity of Mads Mikkelsen and the potential evil of cephalopods, then you’ve hit the jackpot. -30-

First Promotional Video Released For My Hero Academia Anime’s Second Season

Published by Frank Inglese

Kohei Horikoshi’s My Hero Academia is one of the most popular Shonen Jump Manga in the publication’s modern era, and it’s Anime adaptation is seemingly no different. An instant hit, this series gained large-scale popularity across the world, with Viz Media being forced to release the Manga digitally through it’s Weekly Shonen Jump app by sheer demand of widespread audience. The Anime adaptation, which has been legally streamed across the world, met with much he same reception as it’s source material so it’s no surprise that, almost as soon as it’s first season ended, it was revealed to be getting a second. Bones, the studio behind the series, has just revealed the ver first promotional video for the upcoming second season, and although it’s only some thirty seconds long it’s still enough to get the blood pumping. Unfortunately the release period for the second season has yet to be disclosed, but we WILL be seeing this in 2017, and it is more likely to begin airing in the earlier months rather than the later, but …

Premiere Gameplay Trailer Released For Marvel VS Capcom Infinite

Published by Frank Inglese

Now that it has been officially revealed and the world is excited for the upcoming crossover title Marvel VS Capcom Infinite, it’s time that we start seeing more of what this new addition to the much-loved series of fighting video games has to offer. To end this year’s Capcom Cup tournament as a part of the PlayStation Experience conference, Capcom released the very first gameplay trailer for Marvel VS Capcom Infinite featuring the same four fighters that were present in the game’s reveal trailer which was only released yesterday. Alongside footage of X, Ryu, Captain Marvel, and Ironman brawling, Capcom also released quite a fair bit of information regarding the game’s new mechanics, the most exciting of which is the removal of 3-hero teams to instead only accommodate 2, and the implementing of a new in-battle mechanic that allows players to harness the power of the Marvel universe’s Infinity Stones, each representing a different type of power. Reborn Rivalries: Universes collide once again in this all-new crossover clash for the ages, where players select their …

Live And Let Die! Sony Officially Reveals Marvel VS Capcom Infinite

Published by Frank Inglese

It was only a few days ago that we at SnapThirty reported on a rumour circulating the web that speculated on the release of a Marvel VS Capcom 4. As part of the rumour it was explained that the official reveal would come as a part of the 2016 PlayStation Experience conference, and that it would be made available sometime in 2017. Well, we’re currently at the back end of this year’s PlayStation Experience, and just as the rumour explained; a new Marvel VS Capcom has officially been announced. As expected, the reveal was delivered in the form of a short teaser trailer that depicted what many assume to be the flagship fighters of this particular iteration duking it out 2-on-2. On the Marvel side is none other than Ironman but surprisingly supported by a more recent fan favorite Captain Marvel (Carol Danvers). Those two are pit against new Capcom mascot Ryu (Street Fighter) fighting alongside a familiar face with a shiny new body; X (Mega Man X). The group of four go head-to-head-to-head-to-head for a good …

RUMOUR: Marvel Vs Capcom 4 Planned For a 2017 Release?

Published by Frank Inglese

Rumours are brilliant because even though you know for a certain that there’s a high chance they mean nothing, it still excited and delights you in ways that most other things simply cannot. I love a good rumour, but that may only be because I’m quite the gossip, regardless it’s this particular one that has me in pure elation! If you’ve ever played a video game, like, ever than you’d know about a little series called Marvel VS Capcom; it’s a set of fighting titles that literally pit characters from the Marvel Universe against video games legends like Ryu, Megaman, and Dante. So far, the count is at three Marvel VS Capcom games, but an interesting rumour circulating the web is telling us that there will soon be a fourth! Perhaps…remember, this is just a rumour. Pop culture website Polygon recently released an article stating that Marvel VS Capcom 4 will indeed be released in 2017, with their sources being many and mysterious. This, my friends, is why I must state that this news is nothing …

Blood Blockade Battlefront Returns For Season Two In 2017

Published by Frank Inglese

Blood Blockade Battlefront was the sleeper hit Anime of 2015 that, despite not garnering a mainstream level of popularity, is a series much loved by most Anime fans across the globe. Strange, right? Well it’s no Attack On Titan, nor is it One-Punch Man, but for those “in the know” it was one of the hottest Anime titles of the year. Based on a Manga by Trigun creator Yasuhiro Nightow, B3, as it was shortened to, centred around a supernatural defence agency located in the remains of New York after a devastating catastrophe of God-like proportions. Diverting from the source material, B3 featured an original ending that seemed to me as though it was pretty final, but it has just been unofficially revealed that a second season is planned for a 2017 release under the altered name “Blood Blockade Battlefront and Beyond“. This is unofficial because the magazine this will appear in has yet to be released, but an early edition of the so far unnamed publication has been acquired and pictures of it have …

Wolf Girl and Black Prince (Live Action) – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

Of all the forces that make people act in unusual and surprising ways, love has got to be at the top of that list. It’s a complex emotion that shifts ones priorities and sees them think of another in a way separate from most. A special, personal connection…if it’s real of course. If we’re talking fake love, then that opens up a wholly different path, a twisting, turning, perilous path filled with speed bumps and potholes, sharp turns and those signs that tell you to slow down because there’s loose gravel and you don’t want to fling that into the windows of other cars. Granted, the more stylised of these shenanigans are relegated to the realm of fiction, but isn’t that what we’re here for? Fiction is the window into which we may peer, witness and walk away when we want. Speaking of walking away… In one specific highschool, in one fictitious version of Japan lies a girl, a nice girl, a normal-ish girl who finds herself in a situation all too common these days; …

Pokemon Sun and Moon – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

In life, there is nothing sweeter than the sharing of experience. We as humans actively seek companionship from others as a trade for our own for more than basic primal needs to belong. There is a joy that comes with sharing that simply cannot be explained, but it is a necessary element of happy and healthy living. Pokemon was first conceived with this in mind: Satoshi Tajiri built Pocket Monsters on a foundation made up of interactivity. Swapping weird and wonderful creatures with friends new and old is the foundation on which Pokemon was constructed, and to see such a base concept come so far speaks volumes about the human mentality. Twenty years later and Pokemon is far more than what it once was, breaking through the proverbial ceiling and reaching higher into the stratosphere than anyone thought possible, and yet with this latest iteration we’re delivered something humble in essence. Even this far removed from the original games, Pokemon fans are still sharing experiences with one another, trading from across the globe and battling like never …

Sailor Moon vs. The Love Bug – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 91

Published by Kane Bugeja

Governments are stereotypically stern, faceless organisations that run society and deal with laws, taxes and all of those things that people pretend to understand and care about. But sometimes, they make a decision that is so out there that people can’t help but notice. Especially if said decision involves magical girls and the practices of safe…relationships. -30-

Xbox 15th Anniversary: 15 Notable Japanese Xbox Games

Published by Jahanzeb Khan

It was nearly 15 years ago when Microsoft entered the console wars with its Xbox console, and 15 years later it currently stands in a pretty sweet position with the Xbox One console. During that time we saw the hugely successful Xbox 360 system and next year we can look forward to the Xbox Scorpio. A lot has happened in the last 15 years, but what has always remained consistent is the Xbox’s poor commercial performance in Japan. For numerous reasons the Xbox brand just doesn’t garner the same interest from Japanese gamers, and has consistently to this day remained the poorest seller in the land of the rising sun. Still, this is the 15th anniversary for all things Xbox, and these systems were graced with a range of excellent Japanese video games. Some were exclusive, some landed on the system first before any other platforms, and some in fact performed best on the Microsoft game box. In no particular order, here are 15 of the most notable Japanese games that graced Xbox systems over the …

Blood Blockade Battlefront – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

The world can be a scary place. Nothing new there, nothing wrong there either. For one person to find their way in a society of others trying to find their way, it is an inherently shared and unique experience. Oxymoronic, but true. Of course, that isn’t taking into account external factors, such as if the world were to be suddenly and intrinsically linked to another dimension chock full of beings beyond human imagination…well, not really, because a human did imagine them, but you know what I mean. Add on top of that the simple fact that every dimension and species holds its own heroes and villains and you’ve got yourself a recipe for chaos in a cookbook of insanity. But then, you have to ask yourself, is that the kind of book you would willingly read? New York City, a bustling mecca of countless people who have gathered from across the globe…is gone. The whole thing exploded into another dimension or somesuch. Sad…and also catastrophic. However, in its place now stands Hellsalem’s Lot, the one …

Assassination Classroom (Part Two) – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

As media the world over remind us, school is a time of growth and learning, a place where children come to understand themselves a little better and discover where their interests lie. Reality of course tones it down a little and the overall number of revelatory experiences and life defining moments are slightly less pronounced. But, if people wanted reality, they wouldn’t watch fiction. So come and witness a particular world wherein school is the be all and end all…literally. Like there was some kind of specific reason that one particular class of focus held the fate of the planet in their hands. That’d certainly speed up the whole growth concept now, wouldn’t it? With the introductory period behind them and more than half a year before them, the Assassination Classroom is finding their stride when it comes to attempting to murder their teacher. With origin stories wrapped up as they were, the faces that populate the background of this series are a little less bland and a little more important…a little. Despite the series’ …

Destroy STIs And Your Childhood With These Sailor Moon-Themed Condoms

Published by Frank Inglese

Sexually Transmitted Infections are still quite an issue across the world. This is just one of those things that hasn’t changed despite years of development to prevent their spread. It’s easy enough to use condoms while partaking in the act, but many people prefer to go about it without the prophylactic and this is when issues arise. It is apparent that, over in Japan, the spread of diseases like syphilis is far too common in young men and women, so common in fact that the government has publicly kicked off a new campaign that is to promote safe sex in, for lack of better words…quite the unconventional way. Collaborating with Naoko Takeuchi, the Japanese Government have begun using imagery of the hit Manga/Anime/Pop Culture Phenomenon Sailor Moon to urge young men and women to not only get tested for sexually transmitted diseases but to actively work against preventing them. In a majority of medical institutions across Japan you will now be able to catch glimpses of the Pretty Guardian herself exclaiming “If you don’t get tested, I’ll punish …

Terraformars (Live-Action) – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

It’s the future. Well, no, it’s currently the present, but eventually it will become the future. In saying that, though, by the time the future comes along it will be regarded as the present, but let’s not split hairs. It’s the future, and it’s time for the more significant citizens of Earth to begin searching for another planet to relocate to and subsequently destroy, so the Japanese government looks towards Mars, the red planet, as our race’s ambitious next step. Do not let it’s colour deceive you though, as it turns out, Mars is incredibly cold! Far too cold to live on! It goes against everything the primary colours stands for and yet we still make the attempt to terraform it. I know what you’re thinking; “Frank, how did we do it?“, well I have the answer: Cockroaches and moss. When I first bought my new car, most people said that black was a bad choice of colour because it absorbs heat far greater than any other. I took that knowledge to Secret NASA and …

Land of the Rising Sun (and Moon) – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 90

Published by Kane Bugeja

Well what do you know, Pokemon finally came out. Of course, if you didn’t know it’s hard to blame you, it’s not like the guys have been talking about it incessantly for the past year. Maybe now they’ll calm down and talk about other things…but probably not. -30-

Assassination Classroom: Graduation (Live Action) – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

Throughout the years of trials, tribulations and trigonometry, there is one day that students an look upon with equal parts excitement and fear; graduation. That miraculous day when the school books close for the final time and metaphorical life chapters pen their final period. The fear of what lies ahead, the sadness of leaving behind what was known, it can be pretty intense if one possesses that level of care and emotional development. That being said, fiction is a wanting creature and, this time around, decided that none of that was enough and decided to wrap the fate of the world into this educational finale. Brace yourself humanity, the Assassination Classroom has one final test to pass…and boy do they have to pass. Take your seats and enjoy/hate the obligatory school bell that chimes in the morning, because it’s time for one final lesson in the classroom that tells children to shoot their teacher until they die. Right now is a pretty good time for a disclaimer that nobody should do that in the real …

Dragon Ball Xenoverse 2 – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

Sometimes, no matter how hard you wish, the past cannot be changed. Always actually, on account of the real world not possessing means of time travel…yet. But what would you do if you could travel the other way down a one way street? If you could freely traverse the realm of tics and tocs and alter that which has already happened? Would you mix things up in your own life and set mistakes right? Or would you work on a grander scale and try to fix the world? Though perhaps the better question is; could you live with the consequences of your alterations? Unless, of course, you just went back and fixed your fix…because time travel. Welcome to Canton City, a wonderful, magical place that makes Toki Toki City look like a smaller, less populated hub world by comparison. Standing as the brand new headquarters of the Time Patrol because why the HFIL not, Canton contains a few memorable locales that you DBZ aficionados may just recognise. Of course, if you’re more interested in fictional …

First Preview Released For Fullmetal Alchemist Live-Action Film

Published by Frank Inglese

There’s a timeless saying that goes; “when it rains, it pours“, and while this is only a moderate shower, it’s one that is building necessary hype for some upcoming live-action feature film adaptations of Japanese pop culture properties. Only a few days ago the very first full trailer was released for the Ghost In The Shell Hollywood adaptation which was exciting in and of itself, but following it’s release the world has been gifted a quick look at another anticipated live-action adaptation; the Fullmetal Alchemist film. The movie’s official website has been updated today to feature a thirty-second preview video of the upcoming film that shows lead actor Ryosuke Yamada as Edward Elric alongside his full-CGI brother Alphonse, as well as some familiar locations, and a canine-like beast that many are assuming is the adaptations take on a chimera. While there’s not much more to be said about this brief look at the film, my personal opinion is that it actually looks great! My hope is that, unlike many other movies of it’s kind, it …

World of Final Fantasy – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

Be they fictitious or otherwise, as time flows through a world the tales within become far more complex. Stories upon stories of heroism, villainy and all that lies between. Faces that define themselves, names which become legend and deeds which remain in eternity. A broad concept to be sure, but one that boils down to one simple fact; sometimes, anything that can happen, will happen. Now, whilst this may imply chaos in most circumstances, namely those of the real world, the ever numerical form of Final Fantasy lends itself to wholeheartedly to this idea and builds a world within a world, adjacent to another world that is populated by more than a few familiar faces…and a few that are perhaps less so. But hey, if you’ve made it this far down the rabbit hole, you know what’s up when that half truthful title rolls around. So grab a seat, buckle up, heed the warning of a being on high and prepare to somehow use crystals to save the day, night and possibly that which lies between, …

Coming In Fast! Dragon Ball Fusions To Be Released One Month Early

Published by Frank Inglese

I’m hard pressed to think of something more exciting than the early release of a much-anticipated video game. Bandai Namco truly know what gets people going, and it’s at times like these that we are reminded of how lucky we truly are. The upcoming Nintendo 3DS game, Dragon Ball Fusions, was set for a release on the 13th of December and has been that way since it was revealed, but Bandai Namco Entertainment have decided that waiting until the very end of the year to release this exciting title simply isn’t on. Instead, they will be releasing Dragon Ball Fusions across North America a month early, now being made available on the 22nd of November! While our friends living over in the United States are lucky to land this one early, us living in Europe and it’s attached regions will have to wait until the February of 2017 to get our hands on it, but my hopes are that Bandai Namco Entertainment decide to speed up the release of Fusions outside of the USA as well. …

Paramount Releases First Full Ghost In The Shell Live-Action Film Trailer

Published by Frank Inglese

This type of thing is happening so often in contemporary times, and yet none of it seems real until it is directly in front of us. Although the live-action Ghost In The Shell film starring Scarlett Johansson was revealed quite some time ago, it is only now that my mind is able to properly comprehend that this is indeed a reality. Paramount Pictures have, overnight, begun streaming the first official trailer for the upcoming Ghost In The Shell film, and it has taken the internet by storm simply because, well…it’s here. The trailer goes for a startling two and a half minutes, which is only startling because, from what history as taught us, this promotional process usually starts small and builds up, but with Ghost In The Shell it’s starting off fairly strong with, I hope, all the intentions of getting stronger. The trailer briefly describes what the movie’s story will be baed upon, but it’s so vague that really only true fans of the source material will be able to understand. This film seemingly …

Studio Ghibli’s Hayao Miyazaki To Return To Feature Film-Making

Published by Frank Inglese

For much of our lives, humans blissfully anticipate their opportunity to retire. Work hard when you’re young, save as much money as possible, do enough so that when it comes time to retire you can do it comfortably, but there’s a part of retirement that no-one seems to foresee, and it’s boredom. Hayao Miyazaki, the Godfather of modern Anime cinema, announced his retirement some time ago alongside the internal shuffle of Studio Ghibli, but we all knew it was simply never going to last. When you’ve dedicated yourself to one art, it’s near impossible to give it up, even as the twilight years of your life start to roll around. Hayoa Miyazaki has a fire burning in his heart that will never be extinguished and that’s why he has returned to feature film making for an indefinite period of time. Since his retirement, Miyazaki has been working on a small project called “Boro The Caterpillar” which, upon completion, was to be shown as a part of the Studio Ghibli museum tour circuit. This short film …

Persona Forecast – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 89

Published by Kane Bugeja

Through a synonymous culmination of chance, accident and serendipity, the guys all wind up on the same page this week and speak readily of vampires, bancho and boxing. It’s a weird mix, but, then again, this is a weird podcast. -30-

Very First Trailer Released For Akiba’s Trip: The Animation

Published by Frank Inglese

While many around the world are gearing up for the release of the PlayStation Vita’s Akiba’s Beat, there are still many of us that have yet to overcome the majesty of Akiba’s Trip; a beat ’em up video game heavily reliant on one’s ability to strip enemies down to their skin. The latest in the incredibly short series of games, Akiba’s Trip: Undead and Undressed, gained quite the cult following around the world which spurred a series of re-releases that have yet to end with the recent reveal that yet another is planned for a worldwide release to coincide with it’s upcoming Anime series. Simply titled “Akiba’s Trip: The Animation“, this new series will tell a story similar to that of both Akiba’s Trip and it’s sequel. Though many of the characters are reminiscent of those we’ve seen in the past, this is a new story that basically follows the same outline. Acquire, the game’s developer, have recently released the very first trailer for the upcoming Anime series that doesn’t show as much as we …

Log Horizon Season Two: Part Two – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

Achievement breeds complacency, and complacency breeds comfort. Comfort in one’s self, comfort in one’s environment, comfort in one’s situation. Is there anything wrong with justified contentment? Not at all…unless that sense of security forces you to entirely lose sight of what’s most important. In personal lives, what’s most important is only that to the individual, and so bursts of rest, respite, relaxing, and serenity are only small breaks in the road to ultimate accomplishment, but when the lives of many rely on your ability to stay on path, divergence or delay simply isn’t an option. It has been some three years since Shiroe and company were “teleported” to the hybrid world that is partially like their own but mostly like an in-universe MMORPG titled “Elder Tale“. For a majority of our time with the series, we have followed as the character cast developed a society wherein which they could exist relatively care-free so as to, one day, have the opportunity to focus on escaping this new reality wholeheartedly. After years of struggle, it looks as though the pseudo-civilisation they …

The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel II – Review (Vita)

Published by Jahanzeb Khan

At the start of 2016 we got The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel on the PlayStation 3 and Vita, a much welcome release in Europe and Australia, particular for the Vita that has all but faded from our store shelves. As long as strong releases like The Legend of Heroes exist, the Vita (and even the PlayStation 3) will continue to stick around. The Legend of Heroes: Trails of Cold Steel was a title jam packed with content, an RPG with as much gameplay variety and density as something like The Elders Scrolls V: Skyrim, no exaggeration there. A huge cast of characters to interact with and take control of, a ton of compelling gameplay features to fine-tune your character in a way that is meaningful and not superficial, and above all a rich setting backed by a well-developed lore that fuels a plot and story which is as much about politics as it is about character development. If you haven’t done so already, do check out our full review of The Legend of …

Beetles in the Rear – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 88

Published by Kane Bugeja

Though the topic of the week once again leans into the realm of shonen endeavours, specifically those of a particular straw hatted pirate, the guys still find time wax on about beetle based battles and the many forms of basketball. Of course, these are all taken to illogical conclusions and are more nonsensical than informative. Go figure. -30-

Niantic Nerfs The Rattata And Pidgey Population With New Pokemon GO Update

Published by Frank Inglese

As a man living in the suburbs of Sydney, it was the high rate of Rattata and Pidgey appearing in my area that somewhat turned me off of Niantic’s Pokemon GO. Well, that and the fact that everyone around me was far better at it and, me being quite the bad sport, chose to forgo developing my virtual Pokedex early on. It’s become somewhat of a running joke that Trainers living in the suburbs are the metaphorical Kings and Queens of rodent Pokemon because unless you’re venturing into more population dense areas like major cities chances are you’ll not be catching anything more than a purple rat or a brown bird; two of the most boring Pokemon to ever be designed. Niantic have recently revealed that, with the new update of the game, the population of Rattata and Pidgey across the board is going to be reduced heavily. Finally! Rattata, Pidgey, and Zubat will now be far more difficult to come across, though you can still expect some, and they will no longer hatch from …

Upcoming Bleach Novel Centres Around Rukia Kuchiki and Renji Abarai

Published by Frank Inglese

The final chapter of Tite Kubo’s Bleach left as quickly as it came and left it’s audience with a plethora of questions which all thought would go very much unanswered. This is simply what happens when a Manga goes on for so long but is not given the proper amount of time to conclude. Luckily, for those of you out there that still want more Bleach, it has just been revealed that two novels are planned for a release across 2016, what’s left of it, and 2017. The first of the two to be released is a novel written by Makoto Matsubara, who is known for previous Bleach novels, and will focus on a special story that revolves solely around Rukia Kuchiki and Renji Abarai, who we now know are a couple with a child. This story, though specifics still havn’t been released, could indeed focus on the development of their intimate relationship leading up to the birth of their child…or it could be literally anything else, though I know what people will be hoping …

Nobuhiro Watsuki Creates Short Rurouni Kenshin Spin-Off Manga “The Criminal Ashitaro”

Published by Frank Inglese

Many people would consider Nobuhiro Watsuki’s “prime” to be his time behind the pencil while creating Rurouni Kenshin, but little do many know that Watsuki-sensei has continued to get better and better during his years outside of the spotlight. With other Shonen Jump-published Manga like Buso Renkin and Gun Blaze West under his belt, Watsuki is a Mangaka that is so much more than a one-trick pony, but it is always good to return to the classics and that’s why his contemporary Rurouni Kenshin spin-off manga “Rurouni Kenshin Variant Story: The Criminal Ashitaro” is such an exciting, albeit stout, venture. This two-chapter short story, with the first having already been featured in the December issue of Shueisha’s Jump Square magazine, centres around a character called Ashitaro Hasegawa; a prisoner who is released from a high-security Tokyo prison. On his travels as a free man he comes across another young boy named Aran Inoue, and a lovely lady who has awaited his release ever since he was put away behind bars. Watsuki, as you may imagine, is entirely in charge …

One Piece Film: Gold – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

For as long as there has been an event with multiple outcomes, you can bet your sweet straw hat the someone has been there, currency in hand, ready to test their luck. Combining the possibility of victory with the thrill of the unknown, countless characters to this day spin wheels, roll dice and flip cards in the hope of leaving with more than they came with. However, beyond all of the glitz and glamour, the bright lights and loud noises, lies a discernibly darker side to this practice; losing. Though far from a concealed side effect, many are taken aback by this aspect of gambling and wind up losing far more than they ever bet in the first place. Given the path that One Piece has been following, it was inevitable that the Straw Hat Crew would find themselves on a casino ship that was the size of a medium island and considered by the World Government to be its own independent country. Thus, it is not too jarring when exactly that happens and we …

SnapThirty Crowns Most Spiritually-Talented Youngster In Anime and Manga

Published by Frank Inglese

For years, pop culture fanatics have been at war with each other. Countless relationships have been ruined over talks of who is best this and who is best that. For example: While some of us tend to think Persona 4’s Chie is Best Girl, others may believe it is Sword Art Online’s Asuna. The problem with this ongoing debate is that it is one fought entirely on a biased foundation, meaning that there can never be a proper resolution. This conflict is one that seems as though it is never going to end, but us here at SnapThirty want you all to know that we will be the ones to bring peace back into the pop culture world…one character at a time. On episode 43 of the SnapThirty podcast, the boys decided that they were going to run a series of tournament brackets to decide once and for all who from Japanese pop culture truly are the best of the best. While Best Girl is indeed the most sought after title in all of …

Yo-Kai Watch 2: Bony Spirits and Fleshy Souls – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

Think back to your Primary School days; it was a time in each of our lives wherein which making friends was as easy as sharing the same lunchbox contents. Perhaps you and your pal at the time had the same flavour of juice box which, for a pair of seven year olds, was more than enough to start what could grow to become a life-long friendship. One of my oldest friends and I have a relationship built upon what class we happened to be assigned to, and what desk it was that we were told to sit at. There was no preconceived notion of one-another’s character, there was no prejudice based on personal beliefs, it didn’t even matter that we came from vastly different home lives, all that mattered was our physical placement in the classroom and an inexplainable need for friendship. As a twenty-two year old, making friends is…much harder. Between my somewhat cynical outlook on life, and my constant quest for an easily-maintainable lifestyle, making friends as an adult doesn’t come easy. Now, …

Show Us Your Fighting Spirit – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 87

Published by Kane Bugeja

In a time of sunlight, aggressively feline based combatants and light forestry, the guys delve into the wonderful world of fan based combat and decide which spirtually gifted youngster of the anime variety is the strongest. Ten points if you guess it early…three if you don’t. -30-

Makoto Shinkai’s ‘Your Name’ Set To Hit Cinemas Across Australia, We Are Happy About This

Published by Luke Halliday

After breaking countless records at the box office in Japan, Australia will finally get to see what all the fuss is about with Makoto Shinkai’s latest film ‘Your Name’ slated to hit cinemas on November 24th thanks to Madman Entertainment. The film is set for a massive release across Australia with many prime locations locked in already for screenings. Madman have opened an official website for the film with more specific details here. ‘Your Name’ follows two people whose lives become unexpectedly connected despite having never met and the great distance between them. It is classic Shinkai stuff and if what the Japanese audiences are saying is true, this may very well be his film yet. Check out the trailer below to get a glimpse at what’s in store with ‘Your Name’ before it hits cinemas across Australia on November 24th. -30-

New Pokemon Sun and Moon Trailer Officially Reveals Starter Final Evolutions

Published by Frank Inglese

Overnight, the Pokemon Company International released a brand-new trailer for Game Freak’s upcoming Pokemon Sun and Moon that just so happen to ultimately reveal the final evolutions for this generation’s starters which, despite having been leaked quite some time ago, people continuously hope for with the release of any new Pokemon Sun and Moon information. As it turns out, once again, the famous “Chinese Leaks” are almost entirely correct, the only thing missing at this point in time is the Water-Type Arcanine featured in said leaks, but seeing as all other information has been correct up until this point in time, I have high hopes. Decidueye, the final evolution of Rowlet, is based on an Archer and is a combination of Grass and Ghost-Type. It has the ability Overgrow, and it’s signature move is Spirit Shackle which disables the enemy from leaving battle. Incineroar, the final evolution of Litten, is based on a Professional Wrestler and is a combination of Fire and Dark-Type. It has the ability Blaze, and it’s signature move is Darkest Lariat which …

Berserk: Complete Series (Limited Edition) – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

Time, being an unforgiving element of existence, eventually swallows all. This is a strange yet indisputable law that goes unspoken yet is known to all. Human kind can retain knowledge of the past in various forms, but eventually time comes to take it all. In one way or another the past will be devoured, forgotten to many, altered to some, helplessly held onto by all. Thus is one burden of life, a component of reality that cannot be overcome, and so we learn to live alongside it. Kentaro Miura’s Berserk tells a story that, for all intents and purposes, should have been taken by the passage of time long ago, lost to modern minds, left only in the memories of those that once experienced it…but the tale woven throughout the cult-classic is one that defies what it is I’ve just detailed: Some things, though very much of this Earthly realm, remain even against the ruinous nature of time. While some memories fade, scars do not, and when the brand you bear is a constant reminder of the …

Dragon Quest Builders – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

Since the dawn of time, mankind has utilised one technique to propel themselves throughout history; building. Well, there’s probably two or three other techniques, but they don’t relate to what I’m talking about, so I won’t talk about them. From the humble wheel, to the ultimately pointless iterations of the Rube Goldberg machine, people have endeavoured to create, innovate and make their lives easier…or cooler, that also governs a lot of decisions made throughout time. How else do you explain video games? Venture, if you would, into the long spanning franchise of Dragon Quest, filled to the brim with characters and creatures designed by Akira Toriyama, one specific example of which being dragons, though you probably gather that from the title. However, before you make your way into the heart of the series, pivot slightly and walk a different path, a voxel based path. That’s right friends, similar to the Minecraft your mind will immediately compare it to, Dragon quest Builders takes place in a cubular environment that just begs to be shattered by Giant Hammers …

Rare and Expensive Nintendo Gems on the Virtual Console

Published by Jahanzeb Khan

It’s easy to take video games for granted when they’re on shelves and easily available, but next thing you know that once $10 copy of No More Heroes in the Wii bargain bins is no more! And finding a used copy $40 or so on a random Sunday trip to the mall is considered to be a lucky day. Same goes for video games available for purchase on digital outlets, sure the price never hikes and you can download any given time, but digital games do get delisted (I had no idea that Tetris of all games had been delisted from the eShop due to licensing issues!). Right now you can find some of the rarest and most expensive Nintendo games right at your fingertips on the Virtual Console. In the past you’d have to fork out hundreds, if not close to a thousand, dollars on these games, but thanks to the eShop you can download them right now for mere pocket change. Digital distribution has its blessings for sure. If you’re not fussy about owning …

Switch Us Off – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 86

Published by Kane Bugeja

And thus the NX is the NX no more, rechristened and revealed to the world in all its hybrid splendour. It even manages to keep the guys talking about current news in a semi-professional manner, which is no small feat. Then time rears its inevitable head and conversation slowly drifts into the same rambling nonsense you all know and love…you’ve been warned. -30-

Humble Beginnings – A Look Back At Naruto: Ninja Council

Published by Frank Inglese

There is something to be said about the evolution of Naruto video games overtime. They sure have come a very long way, developing into the unrivalled spectacle they now are today, with every iteration playing host to crisper graphics and the ability to experience some of the more outrageous events of Naruto’s fictional history. There is something that modern Naruto video games lack though; arguably, they have lost what was once most important to the series these games were based on…heart. While flashy graphics and cinematic battles work wonders to immerse players in the world of Naruto and it’s follow-up series Naruto Shippuuden, it seems as though these games have had to sacrifice their charming nature to do so. That’s not to say the newer Naruto titles aren’t worth the money you pay or the time put into developing them, this is simply what time and exponential curve in popularity does to a series, and it is during periods such as this that I like to reminisce upon the past, thinking back on the days wherein which a …

Nintendo Switch – Switching Up The Future of Gaming

Published by Luke Halliday

Snap Discussion is the weekly round table discussion on a topic relating to Japanese pop culture as selected by the almighty Snapodile. Each week the SnapThirty team will weigh in with their thoughts on that week’s topic all with the hopes of providing some interesting and perhaps even conflicting view points on the matter at hand. This week’s topic is Nintendo Switch – Switching Up The Future of Gaming. For this topic we all gave our immediate thoughts on the landmark announcement Nintendo dropped overnight of their upcoming console the Nintendo Switch. Without further adieu, strap yourself in and get ready for our collected thoughts on the future of gaming. Luke Halliday: Here I am 25 years old writing this as I wipe tears from my eyes, because Nintendo have done what they have always done better than anyone: make history. My first console was the Super Nintendo and soon after I got a Game Boy. I plowed hundreds of hours into games like Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past and Pokemon Blue. …

Home and Away – The NX is Now the Nintendo Switch

Published by Kane Bugeja

It’s been quite the wait, hasn’t it folks. From rumours, to hints, to secrets, mysteries and all manner of speculation, people the gaming world over have pondered what the letters NX will bring to the console realm. Well, now we have our answer; portability. Yes, rumours regarding this specific feature have been on the forefront of speculatory news for a manner of months now, but we have confirmation now, which makes all the difference. Trust me. The Nintendo Switch (nee NX) will centre around the concept of alternating between a home console and handheld gaming device. With the “console” seeming to comprise of a charging dock and relay point, the heart of this machine is a portable screen larger than (but still comparable to) the Wii U GamePad. It is this screen that seemingly holds the inner workings of the Switch, as the trailer showed brief focus on the insertion of a cartridge, which is the confirmd manner in which physical games will be presented. Digital versions of games are still said to be another …

Shin Godzilla – Review

Published by Jahanzeb Khan

In the same way it takes an organised team of politicians, generals, and scientists to take on the behemoth that is Godzilla, we at SnapThirty felt that the task of reviewing a brand new Godzilla film simply could not be done by one person. Jahanzeb Khan, Frank Inglese, and Luke Halliday had the opportunity to witness the historic event that is the international release of Japan’s reboot of the historic monster franchise, appropriately titled Shin Godzilla to signify a new beginning and the most definitive, truthful, and memorable depiction of the movie icon himself. Shin Godzilla is every bit of a historic landmark release as the original 1954 Godzilla film. Shin Godzilla had a lot of high expectations to live up to, and the limited international release means not everyone will have a chance to witness it. Thankfully, Madman has taken the mantle to distribute the film all over Australia in major cities. It was initially meant to be a one night screening only on 13 October 2016, but thankfully more dates have been added …

Kingsglaive: Final Fantasy XV – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

For as long as there has been more than one kingdom, there have been tales of war. Not trying to be glib, just stating the facts. Small disagreements, minute clashes that escalate as populations boon, swirling into a chaos of misunderstandings, conflicts of ideals and simple greed. Now, this is not to say that peace is an impossibility, but that it is a possibility hidden in the depths of the future, one that must be purposefully reached. Additionally, in the world of fiction, war makes for a far more compelling story than peace, especially when said war involves lightning, gods and really, really cool daggers. XV. Those two letters representing two numbers representing over a decade of waiting, a waiting which is still being enacted. No, my friends, this is not the game you are looking for, but a movie based within its world. A prequel of sorts delving into the story of a protagonist unseen thus far. Rather than add to the tale of Noctis Lucis Caelum (as Brotherhood Final fantasy XV does), Kingsglaive …

Alola! Welcome to the Island – A Look at the Pokemon Sun & Moon Demo

Published by Kane Bugeja

Though the ever awaited release date of November 18th lies on the horizon still, this Halloween month has provided us all with the chance to briefly visit the brand new world of Pokemon. With a stealthy companion by our sides and a ukulele tune in our ears, let us all explore a fraction of the Alola region. That being said, given the nature of a demo, I’ll throw down a TLDR for all those who want the meat, without having to tolerate me chewing the fat. The city featured is known as Hau’oli City A Trial is tasked at Ten Carat Hill, in which you must photograph two Jangmo-o and two Hakmo-o (one of whom is a Totem Pokemon) Z-Move strength changes based upon its utilised move – Gigavolt Havoc is shown to posses a power of 175 (Thunderbolt), 160 (Electro Ball) and 100 (Nuzzle) – as does its position as Physical or Special Z-Crystals may be given to multiple compatible Pokemon at once Battle Bond is also increases the power of Water Shuriken (which is now …

E.T. the Existential Titan – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 85

Published by Kane Bugeja

From introspection, to laughter, to pizza and everything between and beyond, this one has it all. More truthfully, however, three guys wax metaphysical and determine just how much a joke can be wrung out before it just stops dripping laughter…quite a lot as it turns out. -30-

Pokemon Sun and Moon – International Trailer Reveals Even More Unseen Evolutions

Published by Frank Inglese

It was only but a few days ago that the world was blessed with the much-anticipated monthly leaks of Japan’s CoroCoro magazine. This latest issue gave us a look at Type:Null and Jangmo-o evolutions, as well as a quick glance at an Alolan Grimer, but The Pokemon Company international have just released an English trailer that shows us all that and much, much more! Silvadi’s English name is Silvally, and it’s ability was changed from “AR System” to “RKS System“, inching closer to speculation that it has something to do with the God Pokemon Arceus. Jangmo-o’s evolutionary chain also got a name change; it’s middle form is now Hakamo-o, and it’s final is Kommo-o. There is also now a vibrantly-coloured Alolan Muk! In regards to new Pokemon; evolutions for Cutiefly and Bounsweet were also revealed. Cutiefly will evolve into Ribombee, and Bouncesweet will feature two evolutions that go by the names Steenee and Tsareena. The latter will learn a move unique to it called “Trop Kick“; this technique lowers the opponents attack whilst also dealing …

Pokemon Sun and Moon – CoroCoro Leaks Reveal Type:Null and Jangmo-o Evolutions

Published by Frank Inglese

Type:Null is, arguably, the most intriguing Pokemon since Mewtwo, and that is perhaps because of their similar backstories. While Mewtwo wasn’t necessarily created to destroy Legendary Pokemon, it WAS cloned with ultimate power as the basis. Type:Null, upon reveal, quickly rose to the top as favorite among fans anticipating the new game. Speculation developed regarding just what this creature is under that intense mask, and with the new CoroCoro magazine leaks, well…we finally find out! Yes, it’s that time of the month wherein which the news that is supposed to be broken with the physical release of Japan’s own CoroCoro magazine is instead leaked online thanks to an unknown citizen of the internet with early access to the new issue. This month’s is quite exciting considering it has not only revealed a new Alolan form, a Poison/Dark-Type Grimer, but the aforementioned Type:Null Evolution, Shiruvadi, and the entire Evolutionary chain of possible Pseudo-Legendary Jangmo-o: It’s middle Evolution is named Jarango, and it’s final is named Jararanga. The two latter Pokemon will be a mix between Dragon-Type …

Superdimension Neptune VS Sega Hard Girls – Review

Published by Kane Bugeja

As time continues to spiral forth on its merry way, certain facts become clouded. Sure, history can help record certain facets of information, but it is not always accurate, something about it being written by the victors. Yet, despite this knowledge regarding the ironic lack thereof, there is little one without a sentient time travelling motorcycle can do. Sure is a shame nobody like that exists in a preposterously prefixed dimension prone to whimsy and wonder. Truly, a shame… Psych! Or, you know, it would be if you didn’t read the title of this review, or avert your gaze slightly to the right and witness the cover art of this particular game(although I applaud your adventurous spirit if you didn’t). But, suppositions aside, let us delve into yet another wacky, personified adventure of the Neptunia franchise, specifically the one known as Superdimension Neptune VS Sega Hard Girls. First things first; Why does the title say Neptune instead of the usual Neptunia? Good question…I have no idea. There is nothing within the game itself that references …

Digimon Universe: Appli Monsters Heading To The West Courtesy Of Toei Animation

Published by Frank Inglese

Ever since I was a child, stretching up to this very day, I have been in love with Bandai’s Digimon. The Anime series, the video games, the Virtual Pets, and even it’s Trading Card Game, it seems as though Digimon is just one of the few franchises that will stick with me for the rest of my life. Reading that alone, you can see why the next step into the Digital World, known as Digimon Universe: Appli Monsters, is so exciting to me, and people like myself, who simply cannot get enough of what the franchise has to offer. Until today, I was convinced that the new Anime series, accompanied by the Video Game and merchandise related to it, would never make it outside of Japan, but it is thanks to Toei Animations news that I’m able to toss those thoughts out the window, replacing them with some more positive than the last: Perhaps you’ve never heard of this, but there is a yearly convention called “MIPCON” which is, in basic terms, a tradeshow that …

Tiger the Morally Grey – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 84

Published by Kane Bugeja

In order to realise their dreams, to achieve their true potential, people do many things. Some venture forth to places of higher education, some stay at home and carry on their family legacy and some, well, some climb a mountain in their swimwear, murder a guy and become infamous pro wrestlers. To each their own. -30-

A Second Trailer Has Been Released For Upcoming Digimon Universe: Appli Monsters Game

Published by Frank Inglese

While many Digimon fans from across the globe are busy attacking and defending the new multimedia project Digimon Universe: Appli Monsters, many of us are just glad that such an addition to the long-running series exists. Scroll through any comment section of any given article regarding the new Video Game or Anime and you will understand just how divisive Digimon Universe: Appli Monsters is. There’s a clear three-way split in the fandom; a third of which will attack it for either been too different or not different enough, another that will defend it tooth and nail regardless of the facts, and a final that is simply happy that the franchise has yet to perish in the shadow of more popular franchises like Pokemon and Yo-Kai Watch. This particular piece of news goes out to the latter of the fanbase specifically: Bandai Namco Entertainment have released a brand-new full-length trailer for the upcoming Nintendo 3DS game, aptly titled Digimon Universe: Appli Monsters, that showcases many of it’s features, most of which have never been seen in previous …

What We Are Watching: Fall 2016 Anime Season

Published by Luke Halliday

Snap Discussion is the weekly round table discussion on a topic relating to Japanese pop culture as selected by the almighty Snapodile. Each week the SnapThirty team will weigh in with their thoughts on that week’s topic all with the hopes of providing some interesting and perhaps even conflicting view points on the matter at hand. This week’s topic is What We Are Watching: Fall 2016 Anime Season. For this topic we each took a long hard look at the upcoming anime season and discuss our thoughts on what we are interested in watching and provide some of our ‘expert’ recommendations. Without further adieu, strap yourself in and get ready for our collected thoughts on the Fall 2016 anime season. Luke Halliday: Tell me I’m not the only one. Tell me that it isn’t just me. Tell me that it is getting mighty hard to keep up with all the fast paced goings ons in the anime world on a seasonal basis. I mean I still have shows from last season and the season before …

Making a Morning Impact – CardFight!! Vanguard G to Air on Toasted TV

Published by Kane Bugeja

Do you like Cardfight!! Vanguard? Are you currently living in Australia? If you answered no to either of these questions, then this article probably isn’t for you (though you are more than free to keep reading). If, however, you answered yes to both questions, then you’ll be happy to know that there is now an avenue through which Vanguard can be enjoyed; Toasted TV. I’m sure you’ve heard of it; morning show, plays anime and cartoons, bunch of stuff happens in between. Well, starting October 28th, Cardfight!! Vanguard will be filling in the 7am slot, the opener. The time in which series such as Digimon, Pokemon, possibly Duel Masters and definitely a rotating cast of Italian animated non-anime have lived in. Here’s to hoping that Cardfight!! sticks around for a while and similarly that its presence will inspire a future full of animated card games that are far more dramatic than what we have here in reality…last time I checked at least. If you know where to find some holographic, otherwordly card games, let me …

Pokemon Sun and Moon – Middle Starter Evolutions Finally Revealed

Published by Frank Inglese

This is a crucial time in any Pokemon Trainer’s life; it’s the period prior to a new Pokemon video game being released, and it’s a point in each of our lives wherein which we live in a constant state of anticipation as we wait for more Pokemon to be revealed, periodically adding new ones to our, so far, fictitious team of six. Now, no matter how many Pokemon Game Freak reveals between the first trailer of the new game and it’s release, none will be more important than that of the starts and their evolutions. The starters were introduced to the Pokemon-loving world quite some time ago, which makes the reveal of their Evolutions as a part of this new trailer all the more sweeter. Yes, Game Freak and Nintendo have, overnight, released a new trailer for Pokemon Sun and Moon that finally reveals the middle evolutions of the starter Pokemon Rowlet, Litten, and Poplio. Their named are Dartrix, Torracat, and Brionne, and their designs somewhat match up with the final evolutions depicted in the …

Was It All Worth It? – 91 Days Episode Eleven and Twelve – Season’s Writings

Published by Frank Inglese

This week-to-week rollercoaster ride has finally come to an end. Just on time, as well. Some series’ tend to stretch on for longer than they should, ruining the experience as a result, 91 Days ended when it should have, though perhaps five minutes longer than necessary, but in the grand scheme of things…that’s a blessing. It’s been quite a while since the ending to an Anime has sent me into a whirlwind of confusion and doubt, but the culprit seems to only ever be an ending as vague as 91 Days. For the most part, the final two episodes of this heart-pounding series played out exactly as you would have imagined: After Corteo’s death at the hands of Angelo, our “hero” begins his descent into madness and chaos as he throws away all humanity in a last-ditch effort to complete what had become his life-long mission. This all goes…wonderfully, actually. Making it out of what can only be called a “slaughter” with nothing more than a stab wound to the right shoulder and a voice …

Crowd Control – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 83

Published by Kane Bugeja

What happens when you gather seven people, fed them hotdogs, place them around a single microphone and let them be themselves? This episode, apparently. With regulars, guests and newcomers galore, you’ll wonder to yourself, “How is it that this podcast just keeps getting better?” Of course, you’ll immediately realise that it doesn’t, but it’ll be a nice thought while it lasts. -30-

Blue Exorcist Season Two Storyline Revealed, To Premiere In January

Published by Frank Inglese

To those of us out there who’ve read Kazue Kato’s Blue Exorcist Manga series, the idea that it would be adapted into an Anime series excited is greatly, but unfortunately the writing staff of said series took certain liberties with the story that attempted to give the series an ending, unfortunately it was butchered, and what it left audiences with was little more than a bad taste in their mouths. You see, reader, the Manga continued past the point of the Anime and lead into an Arc that, I believe, serves to this day as the series’ most extraordinary. While Shonen Jump greats like Naruto and Bleach have their Chunin Exam Arc and Rescue Rukia Arc respectively, it is Blue Exorcist’s Kyoto Impure King Arc that stands with the aforementioned on common ground. It was announced some time ago that the Anime adaptation would be receiving a second season, which delighted some, but confused most because of the odd story shift towards the end of the first season. As it turns out, though, the writing …

Virtual Worlds Collide – Accel World VS Sword Art Online: Millennium Twilight Revealed

Published by Frank Inglese

Avid readers of this site will know that I’m a sucker for crossover video game titles. Heck, crossover Anime, crossover Manga, crossover anything! So long as it has characters from different series’, different worlds, different realms, and different stories, I’m sold. Simple. Now, those same readers will also know that I’m not a fan of Sword Art Online, BUT that doesn’t mean I can’t appreciate a good combination like this: Bandai Namco Entertainment today released a teaser trailer for their upcoming game Accel World VS Sword Art Online: Millennium Twilight, a game that will bring together the virtual realms of Reki Kawahara’s two most popular Light Novel series’. In the past, these two stories have crossed over, several times actually, but never on a scale like this. The game is set for a PlayStation 4 and PlayStation Vita release sometime next year, that date has yet to have been released, and it’s genre is still yet to be outlined. Despite the fact that the two series’ are quite similar, they’re based on different video game …

Naruto Spin-Off: Rock Lee and His Ninja Pals – Review

Published by Luke Halliday

In what may very well be the most bizarre entry into the iconic ninja series, Rock Lee and His Ninja Pals takes the world of Naruto and rings out every bit of humour it can from the legendary series. While it proves to be a hilarious romp and gives some of Naruto’s lesser known characters a chance in the spotlight, it is decidedly a series for Naruto fans by Naruto fans. Following Rock Lee, Naruto’s true forgotten hero, the series goes from one comedy skit to the next. Through the eyes of Rock Lee and his team mates Tenten and Neji we see a side of the Naruto world that the main series rarely explores, the trivialities of day to day life in the wild world of ninjas. Be it failed romantic conquests, dealing with trivial missions, trying to outdo Naruto or even just hanging out with friends, the series relishes finding the funny in Naruto in a way that the original series never could. It plays with tropes of the original series all the …

Psychic School Wars – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

If you were to have one super power, which would you choose? This question, I feel, is one that continues to be asked long into our lives. It, like many other ice breakers, is a great way to loosen tension between strangers, and learn a little more about the person to which the question is directed. I, personally, have answered this question more times than I care to remember, and my answer is always the same; I would love to be a Psychic. Since a young age, I’ve always had this strange love affair with Psychic Abilities. There’s just something about the possibility of lifting something with nothing but your mind, or being able to control fire with your thoughts, or being able to understand another persons mentality without any verbal interaction that just deeply interests me. It’s my longing for this that draws me to certain things. Often, I am unable to control my action when it comes to the opportunity to experience something related to Extrasensory Perception, almost as if I am the …

Digimon Adventure Tri. D-3 Digivice Now Up For Pre-Order Courtesy Of Bandai

Published by Frank Inglese

Heck, I could’ve been a Digidestined, you know? Had I believed hard enough…and taken enough mind-altering hallucinogenic drugs to the point wherein which I was locked in a perpetual state of disconnection from the real world. That could’ve been me saving the world, dammit! Still, despite my regrets, I do want to be a Digidestined, and thus I take alternative routes. Quite some time ago, Bandai released a “proplica” (prop/replica) of the original Digivices held by Tai and Matt of Digimon Adventure. These Digivices, different from the working video game Digivices, light up and play sounds recognisable from the original series and also, because of it’s release, from the new set of films; Digimon Adventure Tri. Well, because they sold so darn well, Bandai are planning on releasing another version of those Digivices, this time though they will be modeled after the devices seen in the series’ second season. You know, with Davis, and Ken, and Cody, and T.K., and Kari…again. That one! Those Digivices, also known as the D-3, have now been put up on …

Make Enough Noise And Square Enix May Just Localise Dragon Quest X

Published by Frank Inglese

Now, you may not know this, reader, because up until about ten minutes ago…I didn’t know it myself, but the release of Dragon Quest VII: Fragments Of A Forgotten Past in Western regions was not done on a whim like other games. No way. Square Enix and Nintendo came together to localize the game thanks to the many fans outside of Japan who questioned whether or not it was going to be released outside of it’s home country. This, in turn, lit a fire under the arses of the companies in power and gave them quite an indication regarding how well it will sell outside of Japan. Interesting, right? We’ve seen this a few times in recent years. The biggest, in my opinion, being the Western release of Digimon Story: Cyber Sleuth which, like DQ VII, was practically demanded by Western audiences. At this year’s Penny Arcade Expo, a panel was held celebrating the release of Dragon Quest VII for the Nintendo 3DS, with Noriyoshi Fujimoto of Square Enix as special guest. After being questioned by …

A new ZOIDS project is coming soon and once again all is right with the world

Published by Luke Halliday

Takara Tomy the masterminds behind the iconic ZOIDS mecha anime franchise and its various other media and merchandise have released a teaser today on their official website confirming the long awaited return of the franchise in a new upcoming project. While no major details have been confirmed about what we can expect from the project, they have released a graphic showcasing the Shield Liger ZOID and a mysterious soldier crouching besides it and the phrase “A new ZOIDS project is coming soon”. One could presume that this may be hinting at a future anime series, I for one would love to see that happen. That is all the information we have to go on for now but I am sure for ZOIDS fans like my fellow writer here at SnapThirty, Kane Bugeja, are incredibly excited at the promise of a new project in the ZOIDS franchise. Source: 4gamer -30-

The Heroic Legend of Arslan – Review

Published by Luke Halliday

There are few anime that come packaged with such a ridiculous pedigree as The Heroic Legend of Arslan. Not only is it based upon the iconic fantasy novel series of the same name which is damn near paperback royalty in Japan, this anime series is based upon the fantastic manga adaptation by acclaimed author of Fullmetal Alchemist and Silver Spoon, Hiromu Arakawa. It is hard to get any more of a pedigree than that. That said it is a mighty reputation to live up to and fortunately for the anime adaptation of The Heroic Legend of Arslan it does just that. Following titular hero Arslan, The Heroic Legend of Arslan is a fantasy epic ala Berserk albeit significantly less gory. Arslan is the crown prince who must become the savior of his people after a skirmish gone wrong leaves the Kingdom of Pars overtaken by the cult-like fanatics of the Lusitanian army. With his father King Androgoras III held captive and his mother in the clutches of the mad leader of Lusitania, Arslan must gather …

Complete and Utter Science – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 82

Published by Kane Bugeja

Did you know that light is actually quite heavy? Or that humans were the 74th species to exist on Earth? Or that the preceding 73 species are the only ones capable of flight? Well sit back and buckle up, because Professor Luke Halliday is about to take you on a wild scientific journey through time and space, whilst also explaining why you should never destroy the moon. It’s as educational as it is entertaining. -30-

The Fabled “Second Punch” – One-Punch Man Anime To Get A Second Season

Published by Frank Inglese

The titular One-Punch Man, Saitama, has had quite a firm grasp on the Anime-loving community ever since the debut of the series’ adaptation last year. As with any popular Anime series, One-Punch Man’s television success trickled over and landed firmly onto the original Manga series which also gained quite a level of popularity. One-Punch Man is so beloved, in fact, that original creator ONE’s other Manga series, Mob Psycho 100, was also adapted into an Anime series. Thus is the sheer force of One-Punch Man. Literally the moment the final episode of what will now be referred to as “Season One” ended, fans demanded more from Saitama, to which Madhouse simply could not deny. It was obvious from the very moment this series hit the air, but it wasn’t just going to have the one season. No way. Over in Japan, a special event was held to commemorate all things One-Punch Man. This celebratory affair, titled the “One Punch Man Fall Festival“, featured many exciting things, but none more than the reveal that it’s Anime adaptation …

Dragon Quest VII: Fragments Of A Forgotten Past – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

My level of historical knowledge is…trivial, to say the very least. It boggles my mind to think about the countless descendants of human kind, all of which made certain decisions that set our race on a path that lead us directly to this point in time and into the future as it continues ever on like a speeding locomotive. We, with the decisions we make in the present, will effectively become key factors in the world’s development, eventually become a historical point of interest for those in the distant future wishing to learn more about our time. There’s a saying that goes; “history is written by the winners“. As a result of my whimsical nature, this quote interests me to no end. Let us say that, yes, history is indeed written by the winner; the winner being the one to emerge victorious from, perhaps, a battle or farce that would have changed the records of time. One, when writing, has the freedom of interpretation and composition. They have the ability to delve into factual detail or, to …

Dragon Ball Fusions Confirmed For Western Release In February 2017

Published by Frank Inglese

Reader, you’re very much aware of this particular video game, right? Us at SnapThirty have been following it ever since it was announced for Japan, and we’ve been hoping for a Western release ever since. Dragon Ball is one of the most popular Anime of all time in Western regions so most games based on the much-loved series does indeed make it to local shores, but when we’re talking about a strange game like Dragon Ball Fusions it’s always hard to determine whether or not the same can be said for it. If you’re not aware of this game; basically it’s an RPG set in the world of Dragon Ball, with a strong emphasis on “Fusion“, meaning that most characters you will be able to encounter and recruit throughout the story can be fused together. Exciting, right? Heck yeah, it is! Bandai Namco Entertainment, being such a great company, have done us Western Dragon Ball fans a huge favour by today announcing that they will be localising Dragon Ball Fusions and releasing it in Europe, …

Hideaki Anno Film SHIN GODZILLA To Hit Australia And New Zealand This October

Published by Frank Inglese

Hmmm, there’s this strange taste in my mouth. It’s not a bitter flavour, it’s not a sour flavour, it’s not even a salty flavour, it has an almost…uncomfortably disappointing accents. It’s strange. It’s definitely left over from the last Godzilla film I watched, but it’s flavours are so subtle it’s hard to exactly define what it is I’m experiencing. I suppose this is much the same for many of you. It’s no mystery that the West cannot produce a Godzilla film. Period. Thankfully Japan still know’s exactly what it’s doing when it comes to The King Of Monsters, and it’s latest film, Hideaki Anno’s SHIN GODZILLA, is a testament to exactly that. Fans across the world have been anticipating this film ever since it was first revealed, and while it’s been released across Japan, it is the film’s Western audience that has yet to experience it. That’s where Madman Entertainment come in. The Australian distribution company, known for all things Japanese pop culture, have just announced that they plan on bringing this film to Australian …

Nanana’s Buried Treasure Complete Series – Review

Published by Jahanzeb Khan

Nanana’s Buried Treasure is a lot of things, but it isn’t predictable. This short 11 episode anime takes you into an utopian paradise of an island where people can live up to their potential and follow their dreams. On this island, a young person can get a new lease on life… but at the same time this lease must always be paid. Nanana’s Buried Treasure is an odd couple drama, an Indiana Jones style adventure, and even a murder mystery, all wrapped up into an interesting and unpredictable journey where the moment you feel like you’re about to get some answers, the questions suddenly change. In Nanana’s Buried Treasure the titular character is already dead… but her spirit lives on (not to mention, trapped) inside the room of a student accommodation where she plays video games all day and night, and is also somehow able to consume pudding. Now that’s an afterlife we can all hope for right? The SEGA fan in me just has to mention the fact that Nanana is shown playing real video games …

New Pokemon Sun and Moon Trailer Reveals Passimian and Oranguru

Published by Frank Inglese

Game Freak have today released another trailer for their upcoming Pokemon Sun and Moon duo of games that, as well as formally introducing us to two previously-revealed Pocket Monsters, give audiences a look at the Pokemon Passimian and Oranguru. Ever since the infamous “Pokemon Sun and Moon Chinese Leaks” fans have been waiting on bated breath to see just how accurate they are, and as more official information has been revealed it has begun to seem as though the details present in said leak are almost all correct. With the reveal of Passimian, the “rugby monkey“, just another feature of the “Chinese Leaks” is confirmed to be completely legitimate. Alongside Passimian, audiences are introduced to Oranguru, and both forms of Rockruff’s evolutions, now called Lycanroc. Passimian and the Midday version of Lycanroc will be exclusive to Pokemon Sun, whereas Oranguru and the Midnight version of Lycanroc will be exclusive to Pokemon Moon. The trailer also features a look at the game’s character customisation capabilities which are far more extensive than the previous games, and also …

Sins Of The Brother – 91 Days Episode Ten – Season’s Writings

Published by Frank Inglese

The search for Corteo continues as the Vanetti’s ship Avilio off to Chicago to meet with Galassia representatives and to continue promoting Lawless Heaven. Little do they know that this mission will double as witness protection with Ganzo and Avilio now working together for the same cause; to kill the Vanetti’s. Sporting a new haircut, Corteo escapes alongside Avilio so as to lay low until this all blows over. Too bad it never will. Barbero, the single Vanetti to still be doubting Avilio’s allegiance, does everything in his power to prove that Corteo and Avilio are in cahoots, which he almost does…that is until Corteo makes a grand entrance declaring that it was he alone who fed information to Fango and that it is he alone who should be punished for it. “Kill him yourself” says Nero, handing Avilio a hot piece and leaving the room. The rest follow, but not before Barbero shoots Avilio one last judging glance. All parties know the unsavoury nature of this exchange, but at this point in time…nothing can be …

Log Horizon Season Two: Part One – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

There is little difference between that of a good storyline and that of a bad storyline, but it’s success lies within it’s delivery and just how believable it can be whilst still managing to pique audience interest and flare the imagination. Whilst Log Horizon is a series, like many others, that has characters teleported into the world of their favorite video game, having to survive the perils of constant hoard combat and quest completion, it is unlike those that came before it in the way that it is heavily deep-rooted in the realm of reality. Intellectual, mature, and yet light-heartedly fun-loving, Log Horizon is, arguably, the pinnacle of it’s sub-genre…though many will choose an alternative like Sword Art Online instead of it. Madman Entertainment have just released the next for of the two season series, this time bringing the first part of season two to retailer shelves across Australia and New Zealand. I must extend a special thanks to Madman Entertainment for their continuous support and, once again, the opportunity to review the latest release of …

Anime Oz Style – Lost in Mistranslation Episode 81

Published by Kane Bugeja

After briefly drawing from the unending well that is Pokemon Sun & Moon leaks, the guys cast pretense aside and stroll down memory lane. So if you wanted close to three hours of nostalgic cartoon discussion, topped off with personal introspection regarding sleep and possible OCD tendencies, you’ve come to the right place…and have a very specific set of wants. -30-

Psycho-Pass The Movie – Review

Published by Frank Inglese

Psycho-Pass The Movie hit theatres across Japan in the January of 2015 to what can only be described as a resoundingly positive reception. Fans of the original series flooded the cinemas in droves to catch the film that was hyped to be the series’ resurrection, especially after the mythos-crushing events of the Anime’s second season. Gen Urobuchi, once again, returns as this film’s head writer to reclaim the series that many critics consider to be his best and, without giving too much away…I think he’s done exactly that. Funimation Entertainment acquired the wholehearted rights to the film some time ago but, due to mostly mysterious reasons, it was delayed for quite some time…though now it’s here, and it is solid proof that, sometimes, things truly are better experienced late than never at all. A special “Thank You“, as always, must be extended to Madman Entertainment for allowing us the opportunity to review one of modern day Anime’s most anticipated feature films. Psycho-Pass The Movie is set in a futuristic Japan. The Sibyl System is charged with …

‘Detective Conan’ anime celebrates 20 years of closing cases with TV special

Published by Luke Halliday

Detective Conan (Case Closed in English localization) is one of the longest running anime series of all time, clocking in at 20 years this year after having begun way back in 1996. Over the 20 years since the anime adaptation began, Detective Conan has featured over 800 episodes, over 20 movies and even crossover specials with Lupin the Third. That’s just Conan in animated form, the manga has spawned 90 volumes since its debut in 1994 an incredible feat to be sure. In order to celebrate the 20th anniversary of the iconic detective anime, TMS Entertainment have announced they will be returning to the series roots for a special TV movie adaptation of the first few episodes of the series. It is set to be titled ‘Detective Conan: Episode “One” – The Great Detective Who Shrank’ and will of course detail how Shinichi Kudo was transformed into a child by the sinister Black Organization becoming the titular Conan Edogawa. The special TV event will run for 2 whole hours and is set to hit Japanese …

An Old New World – Digmon World: Next Order Set to Head Overseas in 2017

Published by Kane Bugeja

The Digital World, home to programs, annoying pop-up advertisements and an assortment of monsters who range from cute hairballs to titanic dragon knights whose very existence threatens the stability of whichever world it lives in. So, knowing that, of course you want to visit it…right? Of course you do, so let’s go! Back to a world we all (obviously) remember from the days of old when PlayStations had no number after their names and controllers had an option to turn off analog sticks. It was a weird time. Still, it was one that bore the original Digimon World, a game which allowed us to live our dreams of venturing into a plane unlike our own, travel with an ever changing friend and build an awesome city that absolutely had a shop that specialised in slabs of meat and another that was a tournament legal fighting ring. Every child’s dream. Well, get ready to dream again, because we’re going back, perhaps to the very same world which we once left behind. Having not extensively researched the …

Tokyo Game Show 2016 – Capcom Low-Key Announces Live-Action “Monster Hunter” Film Adaptation

Published by Frank Inglese

I write articles like this all the time, with most of them beginning much the same way as this. I address how ridiculous the concept of a live-action film related to the specific subject is, I then discuss, simplistically, what a film of this calibre would be like, and then I make sure to reiterate that nobody saw this coming, and yet here I am legitimately baffled by the idea that Capcom have given a Hollywood film studio the rights to adapt this long-running series of monster-slaying video games in a live-action full-length film. Truly, we never saw this one coming. In all honesty, there isn’t a great deal of meat to this news considering, well…it doesn’t actually seem like it was meant to be revealed, at least not in this manner. Tokyo Game Show 2016 is currently being held and, like with previous years, each company has their time in the spotlight and is given a chance to excite crowds with news on upcoming games, by revealing new projects, by confirming release dates, etc. …

Beauty and the Ultra Beast – Pokemon Sun & Moon Trailer Details UB-02

Published by Kane Bugeja

Ultra Beasts; the new hotness that are taking the world of Pokemon by storm…maybe, I can’t corroborate that, but it sure does sound exciting doesn’t it? With the jellyfish/hat that is UB-01 already as revealed as mystery allows, it is time to numerically move on. UB-02, that’s where it’s at. That being said, this number is one that exists twice over and does so in two very different forms. Split between Sun and Moon as version differences, it seems as if the twain shall never meet and these two forms will retain plot device distance from each other. For the bright inclined, UB-02 takes the form of Absorption, a buff Mosquito man that looks as if it could punch through anything stupid enough to get in its way. For those leaning towards darkness, UB-02 appears as Beauty, a lithe mantis woman who is said to outrun lightning should it so be inclined. So pretty tough customers, not that you could gather that from a name like Ultra Beast. As far as their role in the …

School’s In for Summer – Pokemon Sun & Moon Anime Reveals First Trailer

Published by Kane Bugeja

Throughout the wonderful world of Pokemon, there exists an institution thats influence spreads far and wide…within a single town in any given region. I speak of course of school. Placed within the main series games as a source of knowledge, which is admittedly only useful if you have never played Pokemon before, these buildings are rarely story relevant and can often be skipped past entirely. However, this is no longer the case in the anime we all know, love and have watched at some point. Casting off his successes in the Kalos region, Ash has set his sights on the brand spanking new Alola region and all that lies within (or at least he will once the anime reaches that point). However, rather than continuing his journey as per the norm, our rambunctious, perpetually ten year old protagonist is picking up the books and entering the hallowed halls of education…or something. Look, it’s Pokemon, classes will most definitely revolve around battle theory, battle practicality and battle experience, considering how little else there is to do …

The Mysterious Pilot of Unit-02 – Interview with Tiffany Grant at MadFest 2016

Published by Kane Bugeja

During the first ever Madman Anime Festival (or MadFest as it is more summarily entitled), we we lucky enough to get the chance to talk to the one and only Tiffany Grant. Known the world over for her performance as Asuka in every rendition of Neon Genesis Evangelion these past bundle of years, this particularly joyous interviewee was more than happy to discuss the role, a fact immediately evidenced by her Unit-02 inspired wardrobe. That being said, discussion swiftly moved beyond said unbelievably successful anime franchise and turned to script writing, the rise of anime popularity and another brash, German, eyepatched mech pilot who just so happens to be voiced by one Tiffany Grant. I wonder who it could be… -30-

Pokemon Company Reveals Youtube-Exclusive Anime Series “Pokemon Generations”

Published by Frank Inglese

Three years ago, Pokemon Generations was seen for the very first time on Japanese television. Exploding in popularity, this short series reminded Pokemon fans of all ages just how epic and heart-pounding the events of the original games were, so it only makes sense that, a few years later, Pokemon would once again attempt to bring such events to the Anime medium albeit on quite a larger scale. The Pokemon Company International have just revealed their new Youtube-exclusive, for now, Anime series titled “Pokemon Generations” that will take key moments from the games spanning all generations and showcase them to anyone willing to watch. This series will consist of eighteen episodes, each ranging from about three to five minutes long, starting with events from the original generation of games and making their way up to the more recent titles. The Pokemon Company International had this to say: Pokémon Generations looks back at each generation of the Pokémonvideo game series, diving into the stories of the games more deeply and getting to know characters and Pokémon better. …