Posted by Tim Sheehy on Sep 21, 2010 in Videogames
Sega’s Yakuza series — known in Japan as Ryu Ga Gotoku — has had a rather interesting history in terms of localization. While the first game was given the full treatment, complete with English voice acting and uncut content, its sequels were released with mere subtitles and lacking much of the content the game had become infamous for — Japanese host clubs, mahjong parlors, and the like. That said, I absolutely loved every minute of the series. The characters were easy to relate with, while the story was entertaining, and provided a interesting look at the every day life of Yakuza, from their hardships to their more recreational ventures. So why would Sega finally decide to end the series as we know it?
It might seem a bit unwieldy, or dare I say a tad cartoonish — if that’s even a word — but I’m pretty sure this is probably one of the coolest plush backpacks a kid could ever want. Modeled after Boba Fett’s original jet pack, as seen in Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi, this plush bag comes complete with multiple pockets and adjustable straps that fit both kids and adults alike. There’s even multiple pockets for documents such as Death Star plans, thermal detonators, and more. If you’re interested, you can pick one up from ThinkGeek for roughly $50, though if given the choice, I think I’d rather have C-3PO myself . Still, no kid in their right mind would ever want to haul a protocol droid around school if they could have a rocket pack instead, right?
If you’re not quite sure what you just saw — and I wouldn’t blame you if you weren’t — it’s a trailer for Gucci’s upcoming fragrance, Gucci Guilty. I’m not even sure a fragrance would even need a trailer, but regardless of how you feel about Frank Miller, or Gucci for that matter, you have to admit that its stunning. From what I can tell, a full version is in the works which should debut at MTV’s Video Music Awards later this month. Keep your eye on the YouTube channel for more updates and behind-the-scenes content.
I’m not even sure how I’ve never heard of Quantum Quest. Sure, it’s not the latest Disney/Pixar or Dreamworks venture — a fact that becomes rather evident the moment you see the trailer for the film — but with a cast out of a sci-fi enthusiasts wet dream, you’d think it would have had a bit more press. Perhaps featuring Jedis and Starfleet Captains in the literal sense might have garnered a few more headlines, but unfortunately they’ve had to settle for their voices instead — still an amazing feat nonetheless. According the official website, the cast includes Chris Pine, Samuel L. Jackson, Hayden Christensen, Robert Picardo, Brent Spiner, James Earl Jones, William Shatner, and Mark Hamil among others. Read more…
You shouldn’t be tickling a Wookie any way — what do you take them for, Ewoks? This 9 inch Chewbacca plush kind of looks like it could be a Tickle-Me-Elmo, though. Either that, or one of those clowns in an arcade shooting gallery. You know which ones I’m talking about, I’m sure. All kidding aside though, it’d probably make a much cooler gift for any nephew or son than an Elmo doll. It even roars — or does its bear gargle, if you will — when you push on his belly. I’d take that over Elmo’s annoying laughter any day, wouldn’t you? They retail for roughly $26, so if you’re looking to pick one up, head over to NeatoShop.com and even though you’re not ordering it through the official Star Wars online store, don’t fret, it is an officially licensed Star Wars product.
If you’re a fan of Ghostbusters, marshmallows, or caffine — for me, they hit the trifecta — you’re in luck. The guys over at Think Geek have developed an amazing product that I can’t wait to order — Caffeinated Stay Puft Marshmallows. Finally, I have a reason to throw caution to the wind and mix a hot chocolate with peppermint schnapps after 8 PM without the fear of passing out. What’s more, I have the novelty of knowing that anyone who opens my pantry and sees that box will automatically chuckle at the sight of it.
Posted by Tim Sheehy on Aug 31, 2010 in Videogames
Many fans seem to be in a slight panic ever since it was recently announced that Index Holdings would be merging their Atlus and Index subsidiaries in the coming months in an effort to restructure their resource management and system of business. However, it’s highly unlikely that Atlus, as a brand, will be affected by the decision. This move came weeks after the official announcement of their upcoming title Catherine, which is being head up by the team responsible for the popular Persona series. So far the game seems to be garnering quite a bit of attention in the press for its erotic, adult-oriented themes and visceral, cell-shaded graphics. Personally, I can’t wait to see how the game shapes up — you can see the translated trailer above.
While this is awesome, it’s also kind of terrifying. What you see before you is Lego enthusiast Angus MacLane’s entry into the FBTB MOC Madness 2010 Building Tournament. Each year, Lego Star Wars fan site From Bricks to Bothans hosts the tournament, and in a nod to Empire Strikes Back, this year’s tournament requires you to create your own intergalactic bounty hunter, and their ship. Angus took this opporunity to create his very own McDonalds-inspired Corellian freighter, piloted by what appears to be Ronald McFett and an R2-Grimace. Why he decided to mix the two is completely beyond me. Besides, I’ve always thought the Millennium Falcon looked more like a York Peppermint Pattie.
By now, someone has probably told you to that you absolutely have to see Scott Pilgrim Vs. The World — and they’re right, you must. Aside from being hilarious, and filled with plenty of the over-the-top action you’d want from your typical Hollywood blockbusters, the film’s roots as an independent graphic novel make the film particularly important in that it holds the potential to pave the way for others. In fact, Michael wrote a fantastic article about that which you can read here. For now, sit back and enjoy this amazing Scott Pilgrim/Matrix mash-up by YouTube user AEmovieguy.
Recognize this? Sure you do, it’s a briefcase book bag — they’re just in every anime or J-drama I’ve ever seen. While some of you might be a little old to cosplay a Japanese high-schooler, those of you who want to try are going to need need one of these. Made by Matsukameya, a Japanese outlet that specializes in school uniforms, the quality is top notch, and definitely worth the hefty $165 price tag. This model comes complete with a metal lock and key, accordion pocket for large books or laptops, and several other pockets and compartments for documents and more. They’re currently in stock over at J-List, but be prepared to shell out some extra cash for EMS shipping, since they’ll only offer that.
Have you ever wondered what Kirk would have done if he was stuck with Wesley Crusher? Actually, we already know the answer. All kidding aside though, Pot Luck Comics’ webcomic parody “Ensign Sue Must Die!” shows us just what happens when a seventeen year-old girl joins the crew of the Enterprise. While it has its fair share of cuteness, they’ve tossed in enough fan service to make it worthwhile for anyone who loved the original series, or Abram’s recent reboot. The strip has already finished its run, but you can still view all 32 strips online, or sport $6 for a printed copy via Interrobang.
Posted by Tim Sheehy on Aug 25, 2010 in Videogames
When I first heard the title Gundam Royale, I immediately thought of Daniel Craig doing an impression of Char Aznable. Needless to say, that’ll never happen. Instead the game is being toted as the first “social” game for the series. So what does that mean exactly? Well, that’s a really good question. First of all, the game will be released for mobile phones. As you can probably imagine, that likely means it’ll be an iPhone App here in the US. Only a few details about the actual gameplay have been revealed, so just how social is it? Read more…
Just the other week, I ranted on how I felt the latest book in the Otacool series had dropped the proverbial ball with its return to otaku-based interior design, and even shared my fears about the direction the series may have been headed. Thankfully those fears may have been addressed, as Kotobukiya has recently announced the theme for their next installment — worldwide illustrators. This time the Kotobukiya has teamed up with Pixiv, rather than Danny Choo, to help them pick which art will be published. For more information on how to submit your art for consideration, check out the Pixiv website.
Bethesda has always impressed me by their attention to detail. Like much like their latest entries in the popular Elder Scrolls series, the company managed to capture an audience with Fallout 3‘s breathtaking visuals. In addition to re-imagining Washington D.C., their team of graphic designers created a number of weapons to go along with it. Two of which happen to be the AER-9 laser rifle, and even deadlier A3-21 plasma rifle. Flickr user Ryan Palser recently took it upon himself to locate some blueprints and painstakingly recreate them — needless to say, they look amazing. Check out his flickr account for more photos. Read more…
As far as Hatsune Miku and Vocaloid goes, Black Rock Shooter is still the craze in Japan. The popular franchise has been churning out everything from cosplay and figures, to a series of OVAs. No doubt as a result of their fortune, Good Smile Company has recently announced plans to open a cafe in Chiba. To celebrate the opening, they’ll be featuring a special Black Rock Shooter theme. Customers who attend will be receiving a Black Rock Shooter DVD, food mat, and tea coaster. The menu will also feature a special Black Rock Curry, which looks kind of scary but probably tastes amazing. To be honest, I’m just curious what they’ll be putting in it to make it so dark. For more details, and images, check out Danny Choo’s recent blog here. Read more…
Danny Choo’s latest book entitled Otacool 3: Worldwide Workspaces has hit the shelves in Japan. For those of you who aren’t familiar with the concept of Otacool, it’s a book that basically details an aspect of otaku culture. The first volume dealt with otaku rooms/living areas, while the second book dealt exclusively with cosplay. This third volume, currently available via J-List, deals with — you guessed it — otaku workspaces. Don’t get me wrong, I’ve seen some pretty awesome workspaces — the book has plenty of them, and some of them are pretty impressive — but honestly, I fail to grasp the concept of a workspace, otaku or otherwise, being cool. Read more…
Are you fond of betting with fictional currencies because you have nothing to carry your cash with? That probably won’t be a problem for much longer — Star Trek Mighty Wallets are on the way. In case you you don’t know what those are, Mighty Wallets are basically seamless, seamless, stitch-less wallets constructed from high density polyethylene. That’s the same material used to create those nearly-indestructible tags you’ll find on mattresses. Of course, the wallets are slightly thicker. These specific wallets feature some amazing art from the original Gold Key Star Trek comics published during the ’60s and ’70s — making one a must have for anyone who loved those classics. They go on sale next month, but you can pre-order yours for a mere $15 here. There’s also a short trailer if you’d like a closer look.
Posted by Tim Sheehy on Aug 18, 2010 in Videogames
I have to admit that I’ve never taken the time to sit down and play Metroid. It’s not that I haven’t had opportunities over the years, but I’ve always wanted to start from the beginning in order to better understand the on-going plot. Fortunately, Nintendo has gone through the trouble of explaining history of the series for us with this interesting trailer for their upcoming title Metroid: Other M. While Samus Aran’s voice over might seem a bit stiff, she does a decent job of catching us up on the series. So far, I’m pretty excited about it. This latest game will feature a mixture of third and first person gameplay, and is currently set for release on August 31st. Read more…
Generally, Japanese commercials tend to be a bit more outlandish than our own TV spots, so I was a bit surprised to learn that Apple hasn’t really done much to change the format of their recent iPhone 4 ads for an international market, aside from hiring Japanese actors of course. It would seem that Apple has focused almost entirely on their Face Time feature, hoping that live video chat would be enough to sell anyone on their reception-impaired smart phone. To be fair, a simple case can fix that, but why should there be a problem in the first place — right? Any ways, the commercials are still pretty cute. I just wonder if it’s enough to steal NTT Docomo’s loyal fan base.
There’s been plenty of news from last weekend’s Celebration V event floating around the net, but everyone seems to be talking about the upcoming Star Wars Blu-ray release, set for 2011. As you can imagine, I wasn’t too excited about the prospect of having to purchase yet another set of these films, no doubt remastered with more pointless and potentially annoying edits by George Lucas — let’s face it, Han shot first. Fortunately, I can justify the purchase as the discs will include never released deleted scenes. While the exact number or content of scenes have yet to be revealed, a short clip of Luke building his lightsaber in Return of the Jedi was shown during event. The clip was subsequently uploaded by fans to YouTube, but Lucasfilm was quick to have it removed from the site. If you’d like to try and catch a glimpse of it while you still can, you click here.
Posted by Tim Sheehy on Aug 12, 2010 in Videogames
Or more specifically, I should say Peter Molyneux won’t. Known for his penchant for over-promising and under-delivering, Molyneux has gone on record to state that the next title in the popular Fable franchise will focus more on story, and balance, than introducing new features, and gameplay mechanics — a move clearly designed with casual gamers in mind. While I hardly consider myself a casual gamer, I actually welcome this news, as I’ve quickly grown tired of Molyneux’s incessant need to clutter his games with features that distract me from the point of the game itself.
If you’re reading this, you probably own an iPhone, and if you pride yourself on being an otaku, there’s a good chance that you love Touhou Project too. If you’re not really sure what that is, don’t worry, I can explain. The Touhou Project is series of indie games developed in Japan that has immensely grown in popularity over the last decade. The series later evolved into a franchise with everything from light novels, to doujinshi. It’s primarily popular amongst Japanese otaku, making this iPhone case a must have accessory for those of you who want to show off to your otaku friends — that is, assuming your still own an iPhone 3G ,or 3GS.
Plan on visiting Hoth anytime soon? Can’t afford a Taun Taun? Don’t worry, Adidas has you covered. The latest addition to their Star Wars inspired Adidas Originals line happens to be a Wookie inspired jacket. I’m fairly certain that no Wookies were harmed in order to make these, but they definitely look warm enough. I just wonder if it actually comes with Chewie’s signature bandolier, as pictured above. Sure, it seemingly served no purpose, but you have to store your thermal detonators somewhere, right? The jacket will be available later this year, and while there’s no current price listed, expect to pay handsomely.
I, for one, never really cared for Star Wars: The Clone Wars. The art aesthetic never really spoke to me, and I suppose I can understand why — it was being marketed to kids after all. To me, trying to sit through an episode is like having to experience Jar Jar, or the Ewoks, for extended period of time. My personal tastes aside, the series certainly has its fair share of fans, both young and old. Given the current climate of social networking and the subsequent move toward casual gaming, it was only a matter of time before someone decided to cash in. Read more…
