The World God Only Knows: Goddess Arc - 03 [Review]

In this episode, Keima plans out his conquests and uses the skills that he had learnt from his previous conquests, in order to make sure that the girl will fall in love with him. Watching Keima move from girl to girl is funny in the sense that he’s a “player” but is also quite sad considering his progress.

What made episode 3 great was it’s characters. The World God Only Knows excels at story telling and it's developing characters. An example being Chihiro. When Keima and her met, she ‘hated’ him and went out of her way to be mean to him. Look at her now. She’s having calm, collected conversations with him, conversations that would really only occur between friends.

Though, we still have the issue of Kanon. Conquests aside, Kanon is dying up in that room and Keima knows it. It’s a joyous thing to see Keima get so serious of a girl. When he started ranting about his games and how life should be like them. I thought it was brilliant to see Keima have a reality check. Life isn’t a game. In order to save Kanon, Keima is willing to do anything.

Episode 3 was amazing because even though they crammed so much in, it didn’t feel rushed. It was done perfectly. And, when it did feel rushed, the viewer didn’t tend to notice because it felt almost like it was meant to be that way. Keima is hurrying to save Kanon’s life. If he’s sitting around doing nothing every episode I think people would complain more. Just saying.

To conclude, The World God Only Knows is getting better with each episode. So far, this has been my favorite episode of the series, encompassing all of the best bits from the first two series into one 25 minute episode. That said, I’m hoping there’s more drama next episode so that we can see the Goddesses arc as it was meant to be seen, the most serious arc in The World God Only Knows so far. 

Happy Birthday Akarin~!

"Shape My Story" by Anna Yano (Stella Jogakuin Koutouka C3-bu! OP) [AMV]

[Video Source: xSlayce]

Rou Kyuu-Bu SS! Episode 3! [Review]

Happy Birthday Tomoka!

The match tenses up a bit ever since Ginga became the temporary coach! The 5th grade team had a big improvement in teamwork and overall playing ability, though they still lost. Tomoka's fake out against Mimi was very nice as well as her blocking of Mimi's scoop shot. At first, I thought Subaru had to coach both teams, but then they revealed it was Aoi, which will probably spice things up even more!

The following day, Tomoka invites Subaru to her birthday party, so after school he asks Aoi to help him pick up a gift for Tomoka. Aoi had quite the misunderstanding about who Subaru was getting a present for, she thought it was for her and was quite disappointed.

During the party, the girls insisted to let Tomoka sit on Subaru's lap, much to the later's embarrassment. Later Tomoka receives gifts from everyone: from Maho, Saki, Hinata and Airi - a basketball ball. Aoi Tomoka gave Tomoka the cutest ribbon for her birthday. From Subaru, a towel, which Tomoka happily accepts. And on next day, Subaru and Tomoka happily have a training session like always.

I really liked this episode. The first three episodes have been very enjoyable so far! 

Kamisama no Inai Nichiyoubi! Episode 3! [Review]

Quite an unexpected ending!

Things started out with Ai and Hampnie proceeding their journey. Ai dreamt about her mother.  While walking across a rope bridge spanning a waterfall  which is undoubtedly one of the most loveliest composition scenes in this anime season. Hampnie and Ai see a firework explode overhead.  Hampnie suddenly kicks Ai off the bridge and the things were never the same again.

The main problems I've had with this episode itself (apart from Hampnie's death) were mostly the pacing. Hampnie's wish alone would have made a good intra-episode, but on top of that, they had to reveal that he was Ai's father, the events with the group kidnapping him, they reveal about Ai's village, Hampnie's real name and the ending itself. There was really no explanation, they more or less dropped out of the sky to make the plot happen. I think all this would have worked better both with more buildup to the events, and more time spent on the events themselves.

I won't deny that the moment when Ai, Yuri and Scar busted into the cabin to rescue Hampnie was artfully staged. It had a rare combination of beauty that this anime has proved itself deft at creating, and the slow-motion was used to great effect.  

Apparently Hampnie was granted his wish - to die a "normal" death, where has leaves behind loved ones and carries a few regrets with him.  It's only when he realized that he had a reason to live that he was granted his wish to die - only the power of regret liberated him.  It's a very interesting and poetical turn of events. After Hampnie awoke undead, he apparently went against his own ways in order to spend a little time with his daughter before he was given his proper burial.  For me, I would have liked to have seen some of that time, and not just in a 30-second flashback.  Hampnie deserved better, and so did the series. There was real emotional power here but not as much as there should have been.

The question is whether Kizuna/Hampnie is really dead. Hampnie was sullen, mysterious, a classic dark hero - and far more interesting than Ai or anyone else we've met so far.  Fortunately the premise itself is an interesting one, and in terms of world-building Kaminai has already proved to be well above the average - so there is considerable hope for the show, even if Hampnie is really gone.  But great characters make great anime, and I hate to see them go under any circumstances this early in a series' run - it remains to be seen whether there's anyone else in the cast who can pick up Hampnie's mantle.

Choujigen Game Neptune: The Animation! Episode 2! [Review]

The second episode was a very enjoyable experience because Blanc, Rom and Ram finally get some time in the spotlight. Rom and Ram is so adorable even though they cause trouble by doodling in one of Blanc’s favorite books!

Anyways, Neptune and her friends (except Blanc) take Rom and Ram to a retro theme park that references a bunch of 8-bit titles! Some of which being: Super Mario Bros and Tetris! There were golden coins, pipes, turtles and peaches (perhaps a reference to Princess Peach) which makes a nice touch to the retro theme.

Like the previous episode with all those Dogoos, a lolicon Trick and Linda kidnaps Rom and Ram for a ransom. Thankfully, the others come to save Rom and Ram and had fought the two villains off. Blanc is the most surprising as she looks calm, but has an explosive personality as seen when she beats the hell out of Trick!

Overall, the anime remains enjoyable despite not playing any of it's game titles. It seems that they are going to focus first on the three different goddesses and their sisters before getting into the focal point of the story. I really enjoyed the characters of this anime, as they have a special charm to them along with the references to the video game culture.

Either way, it feels as though that Vert is next in the spotlight in the next episode! 

Stella Jogakuin Koutouka C3-bu! Episode 3! [Review]

Episode 3! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

Well, I had a feeling that there might be a tournament-style layout (Girls und Panzer) and here we are! A high school airsoft tournament! Though, it’s not going to be a focus point of this series, and it won’t take up every single episode from now on. The entire tournament was done in just one episode (^～^;)ゞ

The first few games must have gone really smoothly for the C3-bu, especially in the first one. I don’t think any of the members sustained a hit, and even Yura-chan managing to take someone out by flailing wildly. While they did rise through the tournament ranks fast, I’d liked to see a bit more of each match than just still shots. However, I do understand that most of the first half was to set things up for the match against Meisei Girls’, a primary rival for our C3-bu. These girls are overwhelmingly strong, and there’s no doubt they’ll be turning up in future episodes, especially as their leader, Haruna Rin seems to be Sonora’s frenemy. Sonora seemed friendly enough, but that’s some strong dislike coming from Rin. They probably have some deep history together from their time in America.

I'm having mixed feelings with Yura-chan’s decision to forfeit right at the very end. On one hand, I can understand her fear – she’s a newbie, who’s been thrown into a high-level match against veterans who took out almost everyone in the C3-bu (including Karila and Sonora) easily. But then again, the forfeit it really didn’t sit well with me – my first verbal thought was “she’s surrendering?” There’s that shame associated with giving up, you know? I’d actually expected Yura-chan to charge in and somehow take the flag – or at least, give Rin a good sense of the hidden talent Yura has for airsoft. But she chose to forfeit instead. Why didn't she fight to the very end? （；へ：）

At the end of this episode, we get to see Yura-chan's sudden change in her hairstyle. Why kind of change was that? All her lovely hair is now gone! ｡゜(｀Д´)゜｡

Anyhow, looking forward to the next episode! ヾ(^ ^ゞ

Watashi ga Motenai no wa Dou Kangaete mo Omaera ga Warui! Episode 2! [Review]

This episode was certainly more upbeat than the first, enough to almost make you think the show was going for uplifting and hopeful. Mostly that came through the introduction of Naruse Yuu, Tomoko's nerdy friend from middle school.

In the first place it was nice to hear that Tomoko had a friend in middle school, and her call set Tomoko off on a weeklong quest to have a fulfilling high school life to talk about. This brings a rude surprise for Tomoko, as Yuu has ditched her glasses for contacts, grown a few cup sizes and generally turned into a "normal". But the uplifting part comes with the realization that Yuu still likes anime and games and misses talking with Tomoko, and seems just as lonely in her high school life as Tomoko does.  There's even a promise to meet up again, and a confession from Tomoko that it's all been an act - her high school life is miserable too, and all they can both do is "Ganbare!" together.

Once again this week, I laughed and laughed often and hard despite all the above qualifiers - because Watamote can be damn funny.  I laughed when Tomoko got off on listening to her "Yandere Boys Verbal Abuse" CD, and talked about how most of the current anime schedule was "shows for moe pigs". I definitely laughed when she supplied her own soundtrack to the conversation between the baseball team manager and one of the players - "How about I show you my special balls?"  And I certainly laughed at the notion of Sugita Tomokazu showing up as Hatsushiba, the heavyset member of the manga research club who spends time with Tomoko after school making up an assignment for art class.

Watching this series is undeniably a powerful experience. It's been one of the strangest experiences I've had with any anime.  Here's the thing with Watamote, as I see it. This is really two different series, depending on the audience.  Everyone is going to get that this is a dark, dark comedy - they're going to feel the awkwardness and the conflicted emotions when wanting to laugh at what happens to Tomoko.

The World God Only Knows: Goddess Arc! Episode 2! [Review]

Episode 2! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

Keima realizes that this time, it's not a game and Kanon's life is on the line. Haqua tried her best to remove the dagger inside her but in the end, it had no effect. It turns out Kanon has one week to live. The other Goddesses may be able to save her so Keima has to find them in the allotted time. Now this is no easy task  (^～^;)ゞ

I loved it when Haqua gets in place of Elsie when she definitely deserves the screentime! She is just cute! Especially when she gets all flustered. The scene where Keima told her she's going to be living with him and then when he saw her in the bathroom. I was quite surprised Keime stayed so calm in that bathroom scene though (◎_◎;)

Keima has to basically 'reconquer' the girls in order to bring out their love since love is what gives these Goddesses powers. One week to basically redo what he did that last two seasons eh? It'll definitely be interesting. I'm also really glad that we got a chance to see everyone else again, especially Shiori.

The scene with Yui was pretty funny considering she played the dominant role and even confessed to Keima on the couch. Safe to say Shiori and Haqua didn't approve.

Keima is definitely showing us more of his 'human' side. He hasn't touched his games in awhile and is actually taking this seriously. The question is, how will Keima fare trying to reconquer these girls' hearts? It'll definitely be interesting. Looking forward to the next episode! ヾ(^ ^ゞ

Attack on Titan (TV) Episode 14! [Review]

Episode 14! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

Summary:
Word spreads about a Titan siding with the humans, the people were divided over whether Eren is their savior or a threat. Eren is brought to a military tribunal being judged by the Commander-in-Chief of the military, who will decide whether Eren should be given to the Military Police or Recon Corps, both of whom have their own reasons for wanting Eren. The Military Police wants Eren killed as he is seen as an unknown threat and might cause a civil war while the Recon Corps wants to use his Titan powers to retake Wall Maria. Levi then beats Eren down. Despite Eren being brutally beaten, he does not change into a Titan which Levi shows to the court that the Recon Corps can control him and proposes that he is to be made part of his squad. Eren is given to the Recon Corps where they welcome him.

Impressions:
Though, that this may not be an action packed episode, it was just awesome! What’s surprising that I got an even stronger feeling watching it instead of reading it in the Manga. That’s probably due to the great voice actors and the impacting sounds that adds that much more! It also highlights some of the social problems nicely, but it seems a bit skimmed over at times. It's a great episode that lets non-manga readers appreciate Levi as a character. To also mention, that the new OP was just epic! Though, I still prefer the old one because it provides that adrenaline rush as you begin to watch the episode! Anyways, looking forward for the next episode! Though, I do feel that it would be more character developments first rather than going straight with their mission.

Kamisama No Inai Nichiyoubi! Episode 2! [Review]

Although this episode was pretty mellow for most part, it definitely had intense moments and intriguing details! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

In this episode, we are getting explanations about a lot of things that had occurred in the previous episode. We get to know why Ai is so unique and why she differs from other Gravekeepers. It turns out that she is a hybrid between a Gravekeeper and a human (her mother being the Gravekeeper and her father being human), and that is why she is basically the only half-human twelve years old known to be alive in their world.

We also learn the consequences of the dead not being taken care of by the Gravekeepers. Once a person dies, they will remain as they were. But as time goes on, they are consumed by their instincts and become dangerous.

This week focused a lot on Hampart as we learn alot about him. He is a character that is quite unpredictable as he will backhand Ai at one moment, and then show his soft side by offering her a piggyback instead of leaving her behind when he wanted to ensure they create as much distance as possible from Yuri. Also to mention, Hampart's theory about God. He explains that God probably lost interest in everything of this world and felt that the last thing he could do is grant the wishes of the people. The first being, to live and not die. I still actually like his character quite a bit. He killed Yuri’s wife before she were to turn into that mindless monster. He did that because Yuri is his best friend and that he didn't want Yuri to get hurt. We also learn that he was originally quite weak because he used to be an albino. At around that time when God forsook the world, his body had stabilized and that fact that he was immortal.

Ai really showed us the type of girl she is. She made her decision to go on a journey to find those who need her. She is sweet and is quite a bright girl when she puts her mind into it. It was ridiculously adorable how she flustered and was embarrassed when she was about to get onto a piggyback ride (*≧▽≦)ﾉｼ))

Finally last but not least, the secret that was sealed within Ai’s hometown. I'm so curious! I am really looking forward to finding out what it is! I also wonder about Hana, the woman Hampart is looking for. She might as well be connected to this secret, or perhaps possess the knowledge about it (ﾉ*ﾟｰﾟ)ﾉ

"Dimension tripper!!!" by Nao (Hyperdimension Neptunia 超次元ゲイム ネプテューヌ The Animation OP) [AMV]

[Video Source: Astralojia]

Choujigen Game Neptune: The Animation! Episode 1! [Review]

Welcome to Gamindustri! ヾ(*´∇`)ﾉ

In this world, there are beings called the 'Goddesses' who rule the countries of the world. The four Goddesses rule four states which are: Planeptune, Lastation, Lowee and Leanbox. For many long years, these countries fight each other for 'Shares'. A Share is the source of the Goddesses' power. However, they feared that their conflict would pointlessly destroy their countries' strength, the Goddesses then decided to sign a Friendship Treaty. This treaty forbids them from taking the Share by force. A month has passed since then. Planeptune's Shares were declining due to idleness of Neptune (the goddess of Planeptune). Neptune decides to learn more about the duties of a CPU from Noire (the goddess of Lastation). At first, Noire didn't accept to help Neptune, but she later helped her by getting her assigned to a monster extermination mission. Neptune, with the help of Nepgear, IF, and Compa, they took care of the monsters in the Highlands, while Noire took care of the monsters in Toruune Cave. In the end, Planeptune managed to gain some Shares, but it's unknown whether it's due to Neptune completing the mission or certain photos of Nepgear that were leaked onto the Internet.

Personally I've never played the game before, which is quite unfortunate. But the anime does look promising. In my opinion, the art style of this anime shows much resemblance to the art style of Date A Live and Mondaiji-tachi. The OP and the ED were pretty good! The voice acting was okay. Though, the voices does seem to have quite the high pitch. The transformation and battle scenes were great! To also mention that the OST fits well during those scenes.

I think I might have just died from all the moe! Noire is just adorable! Though, I really felt bad for Uni. Considering that Noire wouldn't praise her even for a bit. Though, I'm sure that character developments would surely happen as the series progresses. The transformation of Neptune along with the ending battle was just amazing! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

There were great things so far from the first episode of this series! Though, I really hope  to know more about the series from it's games.

As always, Looking forward to the next episode! ヾ(ﾟ∀ﾟゞ)

Choujigen Game Neptune x Date A Live! [Pictures]

"Jiyuu no Tsubasa" by Linked Horizon (Shingeki no Kyojin 進撃の巨人 OP 2) [AMV]

[Video Source: Yuerj]

Stella Jogakuin Koutou-ka C³-bu! Episode 2! [Review]

Confirmed that everyone in C3-bu are all "Hen na Hito"! (*≧▽≦)ﾉｼ))

Yura-chan meets Sonora for the first time, not realizing that her room mate is the president of the C3-bu. Meanwhile, the other girls get up to all sorts of weird antics in a futile attempt to recruit Yura-chan, who remains somewhat scared yet intrigued by them at the same time. Karila then proposes a game: if Yura-chan and Sonora manage to outwit the rest of the club, they won’t try any more forced recruiting.

Quite a decent episode. Now that Sonora is in, they should have some more interesting battles. Hopefully she will actually shoot next time! Yura's imagination of what's happening was really interesting yet hilarious!

I will admit, I’m largely in this for Yura-chan (Yurara, Yura-pyon, Yuracchi etc.) who continues to be adorable beyond belief, and that applies to no matter what she does – from shooting a gun to hiding in the bathroom to eat her lunch. I have a feeling Sonora didn’t participate in the recruitment because she realized Yura-chan was already willing to join by herself – though just wanted a little more time to sort herself out first. And that maybe a war game would help.

I loved seeing Yura-chan learn and get to grips with things despite being inexperienced. In particular, that stunt with the anatomy doll – I genuinely thought it was Sonora’s idea to trick Honoka and Yachiyo into knocking each other out, so it made me so proud to see it was Yura-chan’s idea! ヾ(^ ^ゞ

If only they put some more work into the animation though! The still frames here and there are not too fluid. Well, it no doubt it was enjoyable! I really wish more of the animation would focus on the feedback of guns since nearly all of them sound like AEGs. Would definitely enjoy it more if they used sfx for GBBs and animated slide blowback. I just love the sound of a new mag getting loaded and pulling back the bolt. The gun battles so far have been far more enjoyable than Upotte's. Loving the characters as well! The shout outs to K-ON! and Oreimo were unexpected but great!

 In contrast to last week, I found myself really enjoying the series more this time. Maybe I was just slightly more awake in the second episode. Things are looking pretty good so far, especially with a new set of battlegrounds turning up next week.

 Looking forward to the next episode! ヾ(ﾟ∀ﾟゞ)

Rou Kyuu Bu! SS! Episode 2! [Review]

It's Match Time! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

A girl from France named Mimi, challenges Tomoka into a one-on-one match. Mimi is just adorable! After the match against the girl, we meet a Subaru's father, Ginga, sure has quite the tan. He reveals Mimi as his basketball pupil who will be staying with them for a while. The next day, after Mimi transfers into Kagetsu's class at Tomoka's school, she meets Takenaka, requesting that she wants to form her own team so that she could have a rematch with Tomoka.

 Meanwhile, Subaru shows concern when Saki tells him that her childhood friend, Masami, took a picture of them together at the festival. The two go to talk to Masumi, who had started disliking her due to a family business rivalry, persuading her to delete the photo after pointing out it won't help her business. In which she does anyways.

 Takenaka eventually manages to form a team of fifth years, consisting of Mimi, Kagetsu, Masumi and his two sisters, Tsubaki and Hiiragi, challenging Tomoka's team into a match. In which, the winning team gets to use the Gym. As the match gets underway, Mimi's team struggles as they are too focused on their own individual rivalries rather than working as a team. Well, they just got assembled so they haven't yet polished their teamwork. I guess you cant expect good teamwork from a "made on the spot" team. Half-way through the match, Ginga shows up, announcing he will be the fifth years' manager for the day.

 Maybe Ginga-san will be able to help the team to work together. However, Tomoka's team have more experience so I'm pretty sure they would win. However, Subaru's dad is most probably going to make the match much tougher for Tomoka's team. I can't wait for a serious competition between the 2 teams, I was surprised by how bad the 5th years were, when I thought Mimi was going to be the toughest thing ever! I hope that both of the teams combine and they would get to play in national tournaments and all! (ﾉﾟ▽ﾟ)ﾉ

As always, looking forward to next episode! ヾ(ﾟ∀ﾟゞ)

Eren and Mikasa Cosplay! [Pictures]

【立体音響】中二病でも恋がしたいＯＰ (Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! OP) [AMV]

[Video Source: mariodeiinoka]

Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! Season 2! Officially Confirmed!

In the latest issue of Newtype magazine there is an intriguing promotional image, one that mentions about the second season of your favourite Kyoto Animation anime Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai!
This announcement is rather not too surprising since Kyoto released a small teaser two months ago featuring the words “contract renewal”, which hints at more Chuunibyou. In addition, the anime’s official website was also updated with the image below, containing the same words.

Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! is an anime adaptation of the light novel series of the same name by Kyoto Animation. The novels entered the Kyoto Animation Awards in 2010 and received an honourable mention award. The light novel was eventually published by Kyoto Animation in June 2011 and the anime aired just last season. The anime received rather high sales and TV ratings prompting more demand for the anime series and light novel series. Here is a brief sypnosis of the anime from MAL:

Yuuta Togashi suffered from chuunibyou while he was in middle school. When he graduated, he put that dark history behind him and forgot about it… or he was supposed to. High school was smooth sailing and full of enjoyment—until the unavoidable, sad event occurs. The event that locks Yuuta into a contract with Rikka Takanashi and disrupts his desperately ordinary life.

There has been no set date or season window for the second season of Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! so far.

[Source: Haruhichan]

Attack on Titan (TV) [Recommendation]

Alternative title:
Angreifende Riesen (German)
Ataque a los Titanes (Spanish)
Ataque do Titã (Portuguese)
L'Attacco dei Giganti (Italian)
L'Attaque des Titans (French)
Shingeki no Kyojin (Japanese)
進撃の巨人 (Japanese)
진격의 거인 (Korean)

Genres: action, fantasy, horror

Themes: Dystopia, gore, shapeshifting, steampunk, tragedy

Plot Summary: 
Several hundred years ago, humans were nearly exterminated by giants. Giants are typically several stories tall, seem to have no intelligence, devour human beings and, worst of all, seem to do it for the pleasure rather than as a food source. A small percentage of humanity survived by enclosing themselves in a city protected by extremely high walls, even taller than the biggest of giants. Flash forward to the present and the city has not seen a giant in over 100 years. Teenage boy Eren and his foster sister Mikasa witness something horrific as the city walls are destroyed by a super giant that appears out of thin air. As the smaller giants flood the city, the two kids watch in horror as their mother is eaten alive. Eren vows that he will murder every single giant and take revenge for all of mankind.

[Source: Anime News Network]

"Hayate no Gotoku! (ハヤテのごとく！)" by KOTOKO (Hayate no Gotoku OP1) [AMV]

[Video Source: TheL3viatan]

Hayate no Gotoku! [Pictures]

Hayate the Combat Butler (TV) [Recommendation]

Alternative title:
Hayate no Gotoku! (Japanese)
Hayate, le majordome (French)
Hayate, mayordomo de combate (Spanish)
ハヤテのごとく！ (Japanese)
旋風管家 (Chinese (Taiwan))
하야테처럼! (Korean)

Genres: action, comedy, romance, slice of life

Themes: butlers, fanservice, hikikomori, love polygon, maids, otaku, parody, school

Plot Summary:
Abandoned by his parents and given a monumentally large debt as a Christmas present, 16-year old Ayasaki Hayate is at the lowest point of his life. Desperately trying alter his hapless fate, he decides to kidnap someone to hold for a ransom. Due to an ill choice of words, the girl he tries to kidnap misunderstands the action as a confession of love. His plan is totally crushed when he gives his real name out. Realizing his wrongdoing, Hayate proceeds to rescue the girl from the yakuza, who had instead kidnapped her. The girl, as a token of thanks, offers Hayate a job as her butler. Hayate, overwhelmed by her kindness, vows to protect her even at the cost of his life.
16-year-old Hayate is really down on his luck. His unemployed parents are good-for-nothings who waste the money they have on gambling. One day, his parents have racked up a huge gambling debt that they had to sell Hayate to the yakuza for the value of his organs. In a desperate attempt to avoid that fate, Hayate decides to become a “bad guy” and kidnap someone to be held for ransom, but his efforts to do so are mistaken as a confession of love by the girl he targets.

[Source: Anime News Network]

"COLORS" by FLOW (Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion OP1) [AMV]

[ I love this OP! I'm always wondering on why the first openings are always the best ones?]

[Video Source: bob515151]

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (TV) [Recommendation]

[Code Geass is my all time favourite anime series and Lelouch being my favourite main character of Anime! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛]

Alternative title:
Code Geass - Hangyaku no Lelouch (Japanese)
Code Geass - Lelouch of the Rebellion
CODE GEASS 反叛的魯路修 (Chinese (Taiwan))
コードギアス 反逆のルルーシュ (Japanese)
코드 기어스 반역의 를르슈 (Korean)

Genres: action, drama, magic, psychological, science fiction.

Themes: Alternate history, mecha, military, mind control, politics, real robot, revenge, school, strategic minds, war.

Plot Summary: 
The Empire of Britannia has invaded Japan using giant robot weapons called Knightmare Frames. Japan is now referred to as Area 11, and its people the 11's. A Britannian who was living in Japan at the time, Lelouch, vowed to his Japanese friend Suzaku that he'd destroy Britannia. Years later, Lelouch is in high school, but regularly skips out of school to go play chess and gamble on himself. One day, he stumbles on terrorists 11's who've stolen a military secret and is caught by a member of the Britannian task force sent after them, who is Suzaku. As the rest of the squad arrives, Suzaku is shot for disobeying orders, while the military secret, a young girl, gives Lelouch the power of Geass, which makes anyone obey any order. While Suzaku is secretly made the pilot of Britannia's brand new prototype Knightmare, Lancelot, Lelouch becomes the masked Zero to lead the rebellion to destroy Britannia once and for all.

Official website:
コードギアス 反逆のルルーシュ 公式サイト (Japanese)

[Source: Anime News Network]

"Baby Sweet Berry Love" by Yui Ogura (Hentai Ouji to Warawanai Neko! ED) [AMV]

[Video Source: Lemon Derp]

"Fantastic Future" by Yukari Tamura (Hentai Ouji to Warawanai Neko OP) [AMV]

[Video Source: ArimaKenji0801]

Hentai Ouji Warawarnai Neko! (TV) [Recommendation]

Alternative title:
Hentai Ōji to Warawanai Neko. (Japanese)
The "Hentai" Prince and the Stony Cat.
変態王子と笑わない猫。 (Japanese)

Genres: comedy, drama, romance

Themes: love triangle, personality swap, school, school life

Plot Summary: 
Yōto Yokodera is a perverted schoolboy who is unable to express his true feelings freely. After hearing about the wish-granting Stony Cat, he decides to try and make an offering to lose his facade, only to meet Tsukiko who wishes instead to be more discreet with her feelings to become more adultlike. Who'd have thought the rumors of the wish-granting Stony Cat turns out to be true; transferring the facade that Yōto wishes to lose into a classmate who needs it more and making it difficult for Tsukiko to show even the slightest of emotions on her face. Being on the same boat, they both search for ways to remedy the situation.

Official website:
変態王子と笑わない猫。 公式サイト (Japanese)

[Source: Anime News Network]

Tsukiko Tsutsukakushi! [Pictures]

Credits: tbchyu001

[Source: http://bit.ly/1ao2Er4]

Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Come wa Machigatteiru! [Pictures]

Close Enough? [Pictures]

[Watamote x Deathnote]

(c) to Cydrick Nagato

Date A Live! (TV) [Recommendation]

Alternative title:
デート・ア・ライブ (Japanese)

Genres: comedy, romance, science fiction

Themes: fanservice

Plot Summary: 
Thirty years before a strange phenomena called a "spacequake" devastated the center of Eurasia, claiming the lives of at least 150 million people. Since then, smaller spacequakes plague the world on a irregular basis. Shidō Itsuka, a seemingly ordinary high schooler comes across a mysterious girl at the ground zero of a spacequake and learns from his sister Kotori she is one of the "Spirits" who are the real cause of the spacequakes that occur when they manifest themselves in the world. He also learns that Kotori is the captain of the airship Ratatoskr and recruits him to make use of his mysterious ability to seal the Spirits' powers and stop them from being a threat to mankind. However, there is a catch: to seal a Spirit, he must make her fall in love with him.

Official website:
『デート・ア・ライブ』アニメ公式サイト (Japanese)

[Source: Anime News Network]

Date A Live x Puella Magi Madoka Magica! [Pictures]

Successor of Light Yagami! [Pictures]

[Anime: Watashi ga Motenai no wa Dou Kangaete mo Omaera ga Warui!]

Infinite Stratos (TV) [Recommendation]

Alternative title:
IS
IS<인피니트 스트라토> (Korean)
IS<インフィニット・ストラトス> (Japanese)

Genres: action, comedy, drama, romance, science fiction

Themes: academy, fanservice, harem, Mecha

Plot Summary: 
Infinite Stratos (IS), a weaponized exoskeleton system, has become the dominant tool of warfare and conflict. Unfortunately for the men in society, only women are able to operate Infinite Stratos…with very few exceptions. One of those exceptions is Ichika Orimura, an orphan raised by his older sister, who is herself a famous IS pilot. When his compatibility with Infinite Stratos is discovered after he accidentally touches one at the age of 15, he is given a scholarship and enrolled in a school that specializes in training IS pilots. Which means an interesting life surrounded by girls for this shy, unassuming boy.

Official website:
TBSアニメーション・＜インフィニット・ストラトス＞公式ホームページ (Japanese)

[Source: Anime News Network]

Infinite Stratos 2 TV Anime Slated for Fall!

The TBS network's website for the Infinite Stratos 2 television anime announced on Friday that the series is slated to premiere this fall. The IS All-Night Festival confirmed this part of Overlap's Infinite Stratos "reboot" project in April.

The original light novel series already inspired a 2011 television anime season. For the sequel, Yasuhito Kikuchi is once again directing at 8-Bit, but Kumi Horii (Student Council's Discretion, Zone of the Enders) is now handling the changed character designs. The first television series' main cast is also returning.

[Source: Anime News Network]

私がモテないのはどう考えてもお前らが悪い! by Konomi Suzuki n' Kiba of Akiba (Watashi ga Motenai Opening) [AMV]

[Video Source: The Anime Productions]

Watashi ga Motenai no wa Dou Kangaete mo Omaera ga Warui! Episode 1! [Review]

I had some idea of what to expect from "Watashi ga Motenai no wa Dou Kangaete mo Omaera ga Warui!" (Watamote) before the anime had aired, both by it's high reputation and from having read bits and pieces of the manga! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

Watamote is very much the world as seen through the eyes of Kuroki Tomoko. She's addicted to otome games and because of her expertness in virtual bishounen, it had convinced herself that high school would be her great blossoming, building on the six glorious times a boy spoke to her in middle school. Thus, making her believe that she is going to be popular once she enters high school. However, two months has passed since she started high school and she hasn't so much as made a single friend, let alone get a boyfriend. Tomoko is, simply put, one of the biggest losers you'll ever see ヽ(；▽；)ノ

After taking a good look in the mirror, she realizes she is not the popular girl she thought herself to be. Wanting to change, Tomoko comes to her brother, Tomoki for his advice. She attempts to blackmail him by threatening suicide in order to force him to converse with her for practice.

Tomoki seems like a nice enough kid, guilty of nothing more than being "normal" and "popular" and it really is a downside for him to be caught up in his sister's darkness when he's clearly unequipped to deal with it.

Make no mistake, there are laughs here. The parts when Tomoko experimentally changes her look to impress her brother, or disguises herself in the restuarant's bathroom to avoid being recognized (and pitied) by her classmates, or throws up after looking at herself in a mirror for too long, Hilarious! The visuals too are very funny! (*≧▽≦)ﾉｼ))

The OP and ED (sung by Kitta) were great - visually clever and lyrically on-point.  Kitta-san's casting was excellent, especially in those quiet moments where Tomoko struggles to speak out a word to her teacher or the fast food cashier.

Watamote is clever, dark, emotionally penetrating and often very funny. I'm not absolutely confident yet just how the series wants to be taken and that's one of many reasons I'm intensely curious to see where it goes from here! ヾ(ﾟ∀ﾟゞ)

Mashiro Shiina from Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo! [Pictures]

"God only knows" by Oratorio (The World God Only Knows OP) [AMV]

[Video Source: TWGOKChannel]

The World God Only Knows (TV) [Recommendation]

Alternative title:
Kami Nomi zo Shiru Sekai (Japanese)
Que sa volonté soit faite (French)
神のみぞ知るセカイ (Japanese)

Genres: comedy, magic, romance

Themes: Dating Sims, moe, ren'ai, school life, spirits

Plot Summary: 
Dating sim master Keima Katsuragi wants nothing more than to immerse himself in the 2D world, chasing digital girlfriends. But when the so-called "Capturing God" answers a mysterious email from an unknown sender, Keima finds himself chasing down real-life ladies in an attempt to help the peppy demon Elsie de Lute Irma capture "lost souls" escaped from the depths of hell. Now, lest the explosive collar around his neck detonate, Keima must convince various girls to fall in love with him in order to scare out the souls hiding in their hearts.

Official website:
神のみぞ知るセカイ @ テレビ東京 (Japanese)
神のみぞ知るセカイ アニメ公式サイト (Japanese)

[Source: Anime News Network]

Kami-sama is back! [Pictures]

[Inspiring words said by Keima Katsuragi! Glad that he's back! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛]

Makise Kurisu from Steins;Gate! [Pictures]

神のみぞ知るセカイ: 女神篇 (Kami nomi zo Shiru Sekai: Megami-hen OP) [AMV]

[A fairly great OP in my opinion. It's nice that they had a change of OP for this new season. This new OP is just as good or perhaps better than the previous OP's “ヽ(´▽｀)ノ”]

[Video Source: Trunganhvns]

The World God Only Knows: Goddesses Arc! Episode 1! [Review]

The God of Conquest is back! “ヽ(´▽｀)ノ”

It's great to see this series return! It's a bit confusing in the beginning trying to remember everything that's happened since I saw the first 2 seasons at about 8 months ago. Since then, I've been reading the Manga! (ﾉﾟ▽ﾟ)ﾉ

Admittedly I'm surprised and a bit disappointed that they had to skip so many arcs from the manga. However I actually find this to be rather reasonable because if they had covered every arc in the manga, we probably would have been looking at 2 or 3 more seasons (3-4 more years at least) before we would have even gotten to the goddess arc, so I'm ok with the way Manglobe is handling this.

Thought there were a lot of changes, the pace was fast for the first half as well, but they managed to cover the necessary info needed for the arc. Even if they condensed almost 60 chapters in a small flashback, the actual content that did get animated was handled very well ヾ(^ ^ゞ

The problem about this is that non-manga readers will have to try to be invested in characters they know nothing about. Though, I have a good idea to cover up the missing arcs, they could make OVA's or more hopefully, even a Movie! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

As for the episode itself, everything looked really smooth and nice and the OP was catchy like the previous seasons. The interaction scenes between Apollo and Kanon were nicely done! And that scene where Kanon confesses to Keima was just adorable! Judging from Lune's appearance at the ending, I've assumed that Fiore has been replaced by her.

Overall, a fairly good episode for starting the new season! And as always, I'll be looking forward to the next episode! ヾ(ﾟ∀ﾟゞ)

ロウきゅーぶ！ (Ro-Kyu-Bu! OP) [AMV]

[The OP of this series was nicely done. Usually, songs that are sung by all the main seiyuus of the anime end up with better quality. Thus, this being one of them and is absolutely well done!]

[Video Source: OPEDsub3]

Ro-Kyu-Bu! (TV) [Recommendation]

Alternative title:
Ro-Kyu-Bu ~ Fast Break!
ロウきゅーぶ！ (Japanese)
蘿球社 (Chinese (Taiwan))

Genres: comedy

Themes: basketball, Ecchi, lolicon

Plot Summary: 
Subaru Hasegawa is a high school freshman, he joins the basketball team but soon finds out the team is inactive because the captain is being suspected as a lolicon. He miraculously is entangled with the job of being the coach of an elementary school's basketball team. With these girls and their love for basketball Subaru can only take them so far.

Official website:
TVアニメ ロウきゅーぶ！ 公式サイト (Japanese)

[Source: Anime News Network]

Blood Lad! Episode 1! [Review]

This episode was sure funny and fun to watch! “ヽ(´▽｀)ノ”

This episode introduces us to Staz, a vampire that is obsessed with the human world, especially Japan's Anime and Manga. Fuyumi, a human girl accidently wandered into the Demon World and was killed and turned into a ghost. Staz promises to help Fuyumi regain her humanity by bringing her back to life, as it means that he would be able to visit the human world.

Definitely a decent start so far. They stuck to the manga pretty well, which I'm happy about, the pretty much covered chapter one nicely. I've read the manga awhile so might re-read parts of it again to get a bits of a refreshment. Oh the ending was what I expected though. The seiyuus was okay, but the art and everything else were perhaps rather childish? ヽ(；▽；)ノ

I've loved the references this show has! Especially Staz's comment about Final Fantasy, "Wait they're up to THAT many already? That's not FINAL at all"! Also to notice, the Gundam Newtype sound effect when she remembers how she ended up in the demon world. And also seeing the title of the manga he was reading, Dra-gumball! Hilarious! I'm guessing there's going to be a lot more references and parodies to come up in this show! (*≧▽≦)ﾉｼ))

Though, this episode seems quite colorful? I was hoping Blood Lad would be more darker then this, especially when Staz was beating that plant creature. They could have gone for more serious or darker animation. Blood Lad without it's dark element is not Blood Lad. Both the OP and ED where okay. Wish it was getting more than 10 episodes though! Looking forward to Episode 2! (*≧▽≦)ﾉｼ))

Rou Kyuu Bu! SS! Episode 1! [Review]

Time for the return of the "Oh~" of Hinata-chan! “ヽ(´▽｀)ノ”

The first episode shows us their summer vacation nearing its end, Tomoka is feeling down as her father doesn't approve of her focusing everything on basketball and doesn't want her going to a summer festival on the following weekend. Subaru then plans on going to Tomoka's house to talk with her father, he then receives a call from Tomoka's mother asking him to accompany Tomoka to the festival. Whilst taking Tomoka to the restrooms after a free throw match, Subaru meets her father, helping him find his glasses. When he shows up again to take Tomoka home, Subaru and the others manage to stand up for her, convincing him that basketball has helped her make some fine friends. The following day, a mysterious French girl appears before Tomoka, challenging her to a game.

This episode doesn't really involve much on the basketball aspect as of yet. Though, this festival was surely a nice break from playing basketball for the team members. All the girls look great in Yutakas, especially Hinata! The OP was nice (though not as good as first season's OP). I thought it was very unfitting for the first OP to play when Subaru and Tomoka found each other at the festival. The Chibis looked awesome too, I like the new art style they did with it. Most probably that Episode 2 would be a match considering that there was a challenge given to Tomoka. Really looking forward to the match, and am also looking forward to meet up with the new characters of this series! (´▽｀)ノ

To also mention, that I've re-watched the first season recently after the OVA came out a few weeks back so it timed well with the new season!

Ro-Kyu-Bu is best when the comedy and slice of life elements are suitable. Extending the conflict into the next episode or two would have increased the effectiveness of the drama but perhaps at the cost of what this show does best, which is slice of life and comedy, enhanced by great art and amazing voice acting! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

Glad that it's back! ヾ(^ ^ゞ)

Happy Tanabata! 幸せ七夕！

Tanabata 2013

Puella Magi Madoka Magica (TV) [Recommendation]

Alternative title:
Madoka Magica
Mahō Shōjo Madoka Magica (Japanese)
魔法少女まどか★マギカ (Japanese)
魔法少女小圓 (Chinese (Taiwan))

Genres: drama, psychological, thriller

Themes: death, magical girl, tragedy, witches

Objectionable content: Significant

Plot Summary: 
After experiencing a bizarre dream, Madoka Kaname, a kind 14-year-old girl, encounters a magical creature named Kyube. Madoka and her friend Sayaka Miki are offered the opportunity of gaining magical powers if they agree to make a contract with the strange little being. He will also grant them one wish, but in exchange they shall risk their lives by accepting the responsibility of fighting witches. Invisible to human eyes, witches are catalysts of despair in the areas they inhabit. An ally of Kyube, a magical girl named Mami Tomoe, befriends and encourages the two girls to accept the contract. For an unknown reason, another magical girl named Homura Akemi is determined to prevent Madoka from accepting the deal.

[Source: Anime News Network]

Girls und Panzer! (TV) [Recommendation]

Alternative title:
ガールズ&パンツァー (Japanese)

Genres: action, comedy, slice of life, tournament

Themes: Tanks

Plot Summary: 
In this world, Sensha-do (戦車道), the art of tank-combat, is a traditional Japanese martial art for girls. Miho, a girl who just transfered into the Ōrai Girls' Academy in Ibaraki Prefecture, has been ordered by the academy's student council chairperson to join the school team and compete in the national Sensha-do championships.

Official website:
GIRLS und PANZER｜公式サイト (Japanese)

[Source: Anime News Network]

The Third Madoka Magica Film Coming in October!

The popular anime series, Puella Magi Madoka Magica, looks to be making another splash come this October in Japan. The Japanese TOHO Cinemas movie theater chain has the film Gekijō-ban Mahō Shōjo Madoka Magica Shinpen: Hangyaku no Monogatari (Puella Magi Madoka Magica New Feature: Rebellion) being listed for an October 26 opening date with an advance ticket reservation page.

Written by the famed Gen Urobuchi, Puella Magi Madoka Magica is a darker take on the magical girl anime genre, in which the consequences of wishes and desires brought about utter despair to the young girls who take the mantle of magical girl to battle villains called Witches.

[Source: Anime News Network]

[Offcial Website: www.madoka-magica.com/puella.html]

“Girls und Panzer” Film to Release in 2014!

[So instead of getting a Season 2, we get a Movie! Though, considering how well "Girls und Panzer" did in Japan, this was to be expected! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛]

Sunday's Girls und Panzer event revealed that production on an all-new film has been green-lit. Tsutomu Mizushima is once again directing the project for a 2014 opening. In addition, production on an original video anime about the battle against Anzio Girls High School has been green-lit. Finally, a fan disk with footage from Sunday's event will go on sale in September.

[Source: ANN]

Stella Women's Academy, High School Division Class C3! Episode 1! [Review]

With Girls und Panzer off our screens until the 2014 movie, Gainax Studios has kindly provided us with a new “girls and guns” series! ヾ(^ ^ゞ

Those familiar with high school club animes will feel right at home with the first episode. We’re immediately introduced to a shy new girl with big plans for her school life, and a club in question is desperately in search of new recruits. The new student Yura has been tempted into the club by the promise of her favorite food, cake. That being said, you do get a good sense of what kind of roles the characters will be filling. It might not be as distinct as of yet. Though, they will be so in the future episodes to come! “ヽ(´▽｀)ノ”

The first episode of "Stella Women’s Academy, High School Division Class C3" was quite charming, and I’m finding myself unexpectedly wanting more. This episode only gave a taste of it's potential, the moe and the brilliant mock battle sequences might just be enough for me to see it through! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

"Hajimari no Umi" by Maaya Sakamoto (Tamayura: More Aggressive OP) [AMV]

[As I've mentioned in my "Tamayura: More Aggressive Episode 1 Review", I really did like the OP of the series. A truly great song. Maybe, I would also put up the ED of the series as well. Because it too is a great song!]

[Video Source: xSlaycer]

Tamayura: More Aggressive! Episode 1! [Review]

They're back! ヾ(*д*)ﾉ゛

I just love the atmosphere of this show still,  so calm and smooth. Less than a minute into the episode and I am already overwhelmed with the emotions of this show. I'm glad this show is back!

A year has passed since Fu moved to Takehara, and Fu and Kaoru reminisce about their reunion at that time and all the things that have happened since (Re-cap). As Fu becomes determined to be more aggressive this year, she receives an encouraging text from Chihiro. The next day, Fu states that she wants to start up a photography club as the new school year begins, she receives support from her friends, including Chihiro's classmate, Tomo.

Episode 1 serves as an effective recap for the 1st season and it also pinpoints why the new season is named "More Aggressive" as well, which is very nice. Though, mostly were recap, I loved the parts where Kaoru and the others were worrying about Fu ヾ(^ ^ゞ

The OP was better than I expected, great song. The ED was heartwarming.
The episode was very good, I enjoyed watching it lot, it felt less relaxing but more positive and heartwarming because of the memories and melancholy ヽ(；▽；)ノ

Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai! [Pictures]

[Such a cute scene! “ヽ(´▽｀)ノ” Remembering this scene brings back so many memories!]

Rozen Maiden (TV) [Recommendation]

7 October 2004 - 23 December 2004

Alternative title:
Дева-роза (Russian)
ローゼンメイデン (Japanese)
薔薇少女 (Chinese (Taiwan))

Genres: action, comedy, drama, magic

Themes: gothic lolita, living dolls

Plot Summary: 
Due to a deep trauma at school Sakurada Jun has refused to return. He spends his time in his room, surfing the web and ordering anything that takes his fancy, only to return the items just before payment is due. One day, he finds a web site that tells him to put his order in a drawer of his desk. He does so thinking it to be a joke, only to find that the letter disappears and a strange package arrives soon afterwards. It contains an exquisite doll, that, when wound, comes to life. She treats him as a servant of little worth, but over time helps him come to grips with his fears and in the life-or-death fights that soon follow her arrival.

Official website:
Madman's Official Rozen Maiden Sales Site
Rozen Maiden Season 1 Website (Japanese)

[Source: Anime News Network]

"Kinjirareta Asobi" (禁じられた遊び) by ALI PROJECT (Rozen Maiden OP)

[Video Source: hamayankii]

Rozen Maiden Season 3! Zurückspulen (TV)

[Rozen Maiden is back with a new alternate-world reboot!]

Alternative title:
ローゼンメイデン (Japanese)

Vintage: 2013-07-04

Official website:
ローゼンメイデン 公式ホームページ｜TBSテレビ (Japanese)

[Source: Anime News Network]

Genshiken Second Season!

[Genshiken is back, with a new crew and a lot more female fans in the club!]

Alternative title:
Genshiken Nidaime (Japanese)
げんしけん 二代目 (Japanese)

Vintage: 2013-07-06

[Source: Anime News Network]