Fall Preview 2010

Draft Order

1. Hellomotto
2. Jesus159159159
3. Epi
4. Kabitzin
5. Zyl
6. Halfadeckshort

No updates at Denizen’s blog, so some of these series are unconfirmed.  As usual, OVAs and shows aimed at young children have been left off.  Most information taken from Zana’s chart, as well as MAL and ANN.

Everything I know about history I learned from shows like this

Summary: The story takes place in Japan in the early 21st century, in an alternate reality where the Tokugawa Shogunate has remained in power. In this reality, student councils are tasked with oppressing schools. Yagyuu Muneakira is a high school student who rebels against his student council with the help of girls who’ve had the names of famous samurai heroes passed on to them.

• Hellomotto: Eh, not the biggest fan of samurai girls. To be honest, anything that has samurai girls is, well, a turnoff. Hell, when I think of battling females, the first thing that comes to mind is Queen Blade, even though there have been countless of great female warriors (Balsa from Moribito comes to mind). Dunno why though; I just guess it isn’t my fetish or something…
• Kabitzin: OMG, this has guilty pleasure written all over it!  I like the character art a lot, even though the plot is another bastardized history lesson.  Then again, if history had been like this…  The trailer was completely absurd, or course, with exploding outfits and naked girls falling out of the sky like meteors, but the animation looked nice and I’ll watch almost anything with good battle choreography.  The ink blot censorship was also very funny, like Street Fighter IV gone ecchi.
• Zyl: One male lead (Muneakira), a whole host of beauties and an albino student council president (Tokugawa Yoshihiko) who is presumably the bad guy; the combination of the first two parts sounds like there’s rich harem potential. The website is already pimping its figures, dakimakura covers, oppai mousepads and light novels – as such, I’m not expecting much from the story but hopefully, being an advertisement for the franchise, the production values will be solid and the voice cast (no information at this time) will be respectable. I also can’t help but think that this series would have been awesome if instead of Hyakka Ryouran (百花繚乱), it was Yuri Ryouran (百合繚乱) – Japanese samurai history needs to be mangled Ikkitousen-style!
• Halfadeckshort: I opened up the link, saw Hobby Japan in the bottom corner, and was sold… not that the promo art and trailer don’t totally win for best use of rope in recent memory. Hopefully this “tie-in” gets the same caliber of voice talent that helped make Queen’s Blade so much fun.
• Epi: I may just be an idiot, but I can’t find the trailer anywhere. Anyway judging from the story (STUDENT COUNCIL IS INVOLVED) and the flashy character designs, I’m sure I’ll watch this one.
• Jesus159159159: Watch out Steam! There’s a new censorship in town and his name is INK! The trailer was off the chain despite the Street Fighter IV similarities. I love the slightly thicker lines in the trailer, but the thin lines used in the promotional art above make me a bit worried. Fan service with action is alright with me, just don’t add any moe!

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Halfadeckshort, Epi, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin, Halfadeckshort

[ MAL | ANN ]

Whip, mask, crotchless robo-chaps, star pasties... wait, this isn't the MM! image?

Summary: To the south of Japan, there lies a lush green island called Southern Cross Isle. One night, a boy by the name of Takuto Tsunashi washes up on the shore of the island alone. Having swum from the mainland alone and without any possessions, this boy enrolls in the senior high level in the school on the island – Southern Cross High School.  With his bright and positive personality, he starts to mix with various students in the school and builds relationships with many of them, including Wako Agemaki and Sugata Shindou. But this school hides a deep secret. There are sleeping giants hidden under the ground called “Cybuddies”.

There are about 20 of these giants, and they are just some of the various secrets kept by everyone on the island: The secret movements of the mysterious organization known as “Kirahoshi Juujidan”. The songs of the shrine maidens. And even Takuto himself will soon come to embrace a great secret… This island in the southern territories surrounded by the blue sea and the blue skies is the stage where the “Eulogy of Youth” filled with love, dreams and friendships, will begin.

• Hellomotto: Well, well, this series seems quite the mix of mecha and cheesy teenage bonding–both of which I’m not a huge fan, might I add. Still, this could be a good watch; probably not the best blogging material from where I stand, however.
• Kabitzin: So this is why Michael Phelps trains so hard… Bones has a good reputation and goodness it’s been a long time since I watched a show with mecha. “Cybuddies” sounds like someone you cyber with all the time.
• Zyl: The masks and combat costumes seem to be based on a Harlequin theme; the only possible hook for me here is that Maaya Sakamoto voices Endou Sarina, president of the intriguingly named drama club, The Night Flyers.
• Halfadeckshort: Though it looks like at least one of the designs is inspired by Sorcerer Hunters, the name “Cybuddies” sounds like it would be more appropriate for an animatronic toy line (i.e. Teddy Ruxpin‘s friends). It’s Bones though, so I’ll check it out to see if the first episode holds my attention.
• Epi: BONES? Only mecha show of the season? All-star cast (Maaaaaaaya)? The director Takuya Igarashi who was also the production manager for TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE?!?!??! Must watch, even though it has weirdo mecha designs (sigh where’s the more traditional roboty designs that I love these days?). I just hope it isn’t only mildly good but for some reason 52 episodes.
• Jesus159159159: Do you C what I C? ♫ A SONG, A SOOOONG!! HIGH ABOVE THE TREE!!! ♫ … It’s our friend The Creative Commons License!… That’s really all I have to say.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Halfadeckshort, Kabitzin, Epi
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin, Epi

[ MAL | ANN ]

Why even bother wrapping the fan's handle? Just make extras!

Summary: Sado Tarou suffers from sexual masochism; he experiences sexual pleasure from pain. He feels he won’t ever have a normal relationship with his condition and decides to visit the Voluntary Club, a place that grants students’ wishes, for a cure. At the club, he finds Isurugi Mio, a girl who thinks she is a god, and Yuuno Arashiko, the girl who caused his condition in the first place…

• Hellomotto: Hot damn, a series about sexual fetishes? Well, if it’s something similar to the first episode of B Gata H Kei, I guess it shouldn’t be too bad. On a somewhat-relevant topic: although the blogger from 2D-Teleidoscope mentioned a similar series in his most recent post, the aforementioned series seems to be much different; more specifically, the series he recommended seemed to actually explore the “sexuality studies,” as well as the characters, moreso than this series would. Alas, I guess I’ll try it out.
• Zyl: It’s a supreme irony that someone with a name like Sado is a maso but the school context, mixed with the premise, makes me uncomfortable. If it had been about working age adults (like Aria’s parents from Seitokai Yakuindomo), it might be more appealing to me. I also getting bad Zero no Tsukaima Louise vibes from the screencap and the website homepage.
• Halfadeckshort: I’d check this out if the promo art didn’t feature a generic tsundere type and a bunch of chibis, but as it is I can’t take it seriously. This one is a pass for now.
• Epi: I agree with Zyl. If this were some weird underground club for adults (Speed Grapher I’m looking at you) it may have been more interesting… but a high school sexual fantasy club? Also, stupid Media Factory decided to put the trailer on YouTube and ban it from my country. Pfft.
• Jesus159159159: I searched MM! on youtube and got this. Asians? In my anime?!? PASS!!

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Can't believe that lazy maid is making the miko sweep

Summary: The story is set in the distant mountain village of Okukozome-chou. Haruka Kazugano and his twin sister Sora have fond childhood memories of going to the village to visit their grandfather during their summer vacations. However, after losing their parents in an accident, the two must move in with their grandfather.

The twins get reacquainted with their old childhood friend Nao Yorihime, their new classmate Ryouhei Nakazato, the shrine maiden Akira Amatsume, and Akira’s friend Kazuha Migawa. All seems peaceful and familiar. However, beneath the surface is a secret promise that the twins made with each other long ago, the whereabouts of an important lost item, and the real reason they chose to come back here.

• Hellomotto: A tragedy-twined anime focusing on twins? Eh, I could go for better. The artwork also doesn’t seem that impressive; so are the character designs. Even so, it’s piqued my interest, and I’ll keep it on the radar; I’ll watch it if people say it’s good.
• Zyl: I like the feel of the character designs and artwork but I suspect that my enjoyment of this series will depend a lot on the development of the hidden aspects of the premise, or lack thereof.
• Kabitzin: It’s hard to get a handle on if this will be a nice story that takes advantage of the source’s excellent art or if this will be a crappy conversion that focuses on twincest and generic harem antics.
• Epi: That one picture features some very clean character designs. This show could go either way… either have a nice heartwarming story, have a crazy horror bent (crazy secret) or just be plain crappy.
• Jesus159159159: Eroges turned anime have always been a pet peeve of mine, but the trailer seemed pretty cool in that “I’m drinking cold lemonade on a hot summer day” sort of way. I could ignore the minor (and D major! *BA DUM PSH*) boob bouncing and standard violin. Plus, I loved the pocky-snatching and hair-sniffin’. Snuff is TOTALLY in this season!

Potential Watchers: Zyl, Kabitzin, Epi, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin

[ MAL | ANN ]

It's not gay if you spell it with an @

Summary: After being devastated in the third World War (known as The Third Division), Japan was divided in two. Several years after the end of the war, a crime organization called Vischio has taken control of the destroyed city of Toshima (formerly Tokyo, Japan’s capital city), where they are holding a battle game known as “Igura”. The main character is a young man named Akira, the champion of a street fighting tournament called Bl@ster,  who is falsely accused of a crime. Once arrested, a mysterious woman appears before him, offering him freedom if he agrees to participate in Igura and defeat Igura’s strongest man: the king, or “Il-re”. The story follows Akira’s life in the harsh, lawless Toshima as he fights both to survive and to unravel the mysteries developing around him.

• Hellomotto: From what I’ve heard, it’s a game adaptation; and knowing that, I expect nothing but action… which means, of course, good animation. Any angst, unless played out VERY well, would likely kill any potential this series has. Thus, my wishes can be summed up into three words: excellent animation, please! EDIT: After seeing this image, I’m actually getting a bit interested… I still have no idea how that picture relates to the series though.
• Kabitzin: Contrary to what young naive Hellomotto thinks, this is not a typical action show, unless you only watch action shows with lots of BL!  No doubt the “mysterious woman” was a fujoshi and “defeat” is code for “play tummy sticks with.”  I giggle at the thought of unsuspecting dudes watching this for the cool art and finding out what kind of game this anime is adapted from.  This is why you must do at least a little half-hearted researching!
• Epi: I was thinking this would be cool until I read Kabitzin’s blurb. Maybe I’ll watch an episode and not tell anyone just to see how it is… oh wait.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

I now know that one of those keyholes corresponds to the back of the knee

Summary: Keima Katsuragi, a second-year high school student, is an avid dating sim gamer. He is known on the Internet as “The Capturing God” for his legendary skills to be able to “capture” any 2D girl in games. However, in his actual school life, Keima is known as otamegane, a derogatory portmanteau of the two words otaku (オタク) and megane (メガネ-”glasses”).

At the start of the series, Keima receives an e-mail offering him a contract to “capture” girls. He accepts what is thought to be a challenge, and a demon from Hell nicknamed Elsee appears. She asks for his cooperation to help her in catching the runaway spirits. These spirits hide themselves inside the girl’s heart, and Elsee suggests that the only method to force the spirits out is by “capturing” their hearts—making them fall in love. Appalled by the idea, Keima refuses after clarifying to Elsee that he is only interested in “capturing” 2D girls and that he detests reality. Nevertheless, with the contract already accepted, Keima would have to help Elsee no matter what; if they fail, both Elsee and Keima would lose their heads.

• Hellomotto: Oh please. I read the first chapter and perpetually facepalmed. Their attempts at “comedy” just fell flat on its face every time. And that’s not the worst of it: the series implies that “capturing” 2D girls has similar elements to start and maintain an actual relationship. Translated: Skip. (Sorry for the rant; I…just couldn’t help myself.)
• Zyl: This sounds like otaku wish-fulfillment and this has the potential to go very badly wrong if the otaku in question is not an endearing character. One of the greatest challenges for me to be able to tolerate this is whether he will be able to be decent to the girls whose hearts he captures.  However I am really curious to see what anibloggers who have a lot of experience with both dating sims and dating RL girls think of this series.
• Halfadeckshort: Watching Sekirei has got my interest piqued in this whole Pokemon business that I apparently missed out on. Plus it’s got Kanae Itou. Will check it out to see if bishoujo gaming really is the path to salvation.
• Kabitzin: While it sounds like it’d be fun to flip through the various best strategies for bagging the most popular female archetypes, this sounds a little too chick-of-the-week for me. Plus, I need a break from blogging so many romance series!
• Epi: Jason‘s been pimping this show forever and unlike HoTD he never stopped liking it. Just for that I’ll give it a try and see how it goes. Plus it’s got Shigehito Takayanagi directing, and he directed 4 seasons of Galaxy Angel, so it can’t be all that bad right? Deshou?!
• Jesus159159159: In true Hellomotto fashion, I’ll also be a tad bit blatant: Those character designs SUCK. Do people seriously fap to this? It would make sense to put those heads on a Gerber Baby! Other than that, I can’t ignore the legion of manga-fans out there so I’ll give it the 3-Ep test.

Potential Watchers: Halfadeckshort, Epi, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Another lazy maid floating around, while the poor demon above is forced to sweep

Summary: Clumsy Arashiyama is a girl with a love for mysteries and a knack for getting into trouble. She works for an old lady’s lackluster maid café in a small shopping district. The cafe is largely unsuccessful in attracting customers aside from Sanada, a regular and one of Arashiyama’s classmates (who has a secret crush on her). One day Arashiyama’s clever friend Tatsuno is invited to the café, and, upon seeing the miserable state of things (and Sanada, whom she has a secret crush on), decides to work there. Don’t miss the crazy antics of Arashiyama and friends, mismatched love stories, and all the hilarity that is created as a result, in Sore Machi.

• Hellomotto: According to one of the charts, the series contains “slice-of-life adventures.” Did someone just call my name? Granted, the series falters with the mention of a secret crush and mismatched love stories; but I do see some potential here. (And to think that I detested any anime with maid cafés!)
• Kabitzin: Although SHAFT can be a bit much sometimes, the preview was encouraging. It didn’t look nearly as SHAFT-esque and the show looks well-animated and funny.
• Epi: I think I’m done with SHAFT shows… too much for me.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Kabitzin
Potential Bloggers: Hellomotto

[ MAL | ANN ]

Unfortunately for you, she's on the phone with Chris Hansen

Summary: Kyousuke Kousaka, a normal seventeen-year-old high school student, hasn’t gotten along with his younger sister, Kirino, in years. For longer than he can remember, Kirino has ignored his comings and goings and looked at him with spurning eyes. It seemed as if the relationship between Kyousuke and his sister, now fourteen, would continue this way forever.

One day, however, Kyousuke finds a DVD case of a magical girl anime entitled Hoshikuzu Witch Merle (Stardust Witch Merle), which had fallen into the entranceway of his house. To Kyousuke’s surprise, inside the case is a hidden adult video game titled Imouto to Koishiyo! (Love with Little Sister!). Kyousuke attempts to fish out the culprit who dropped the case by bringing up the topic of magical girl anime at the family dinner table. All that comes out is a strong negative reaction from his parents, especially his anti-otaku policeman father.

That night, Kirino bursts into Kyousuke’s room and, in perhaps the first conversation she has initiated with him in years, says they “have things to talk about.” Kirino brings Kyousuke to her room and shows him an extensive collection of moe anime and lolicon bishoujo games she has been collecting in secret.

• Hellomotto: Awww, such a good bonding opportunity between two siblings! Just kidding; this doesn’t fit my taste at all. Next, please!
• Zyl: I have been looking forward to this ever since I read the first chapter (h/t Washi). Also keen to see if this role will continue to propel Taketatsu Ayana‘s meteoric career (Azunyan of K-ON!) to even greater heights.
• Kabitzin: Hopefully this can be funny instead of just pandering to people want to see some incest (and probably don’t have an annoying little sister of their own). I like the character designs, and the anime art looks better than the manga art.
• Epi: She kind of looks like Yamada. Anyway, this could be good or bad, but I dunno how a Nogizaka Haruka clone except it’s the dude’s sister could be any good considering how crappy that show turned out.

Potential Watchers: Zyl, Kabitzin, Epi
Potential Bloggers: Zyl

[ MAL | ANN ]

It's not as funny when you realize this is a show about Ghostbusters being outsourced

Summary: The Upper Region sends two angels “Panty” and “Stocking” to Earth.  Panty, a blond woman in teen-celebrity-style clothes, and Stocking, a black haired woman in gothic lolita fashion, fight against peculiar ghosts on Earth.

• Hellomotto: At first, I thought this was another excuse for ecchi and moe. Then I looked at the picture, which reminded me a bit of Kaiba, except more…distorted, I guess? Either way, it captivated me. I’m still not sure what to expect out of the series, but it’s worth a shot.
• Zyl: Evirus is interested in this. Might be worth a peek.
• Epi: Thought this was Powerpuff Girls
• Jesus159159159: Thought the green dog in the middle was Gir… Y’know, searching for the trailer on youtube was probably a bad idea… (if you hate 3D-Girls, that is)

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Hellomotto

[ MAL | ANN ]

Oh Ika Musume, won't you join us for lunch?

Summary: The sea in our world has been polluted. All sorts of trash were thrown into the sea, making it unpleasant deep under the sea. One of the inhabitants of the sea, Ika Musume (Squid Girl) seeks to exact revenge on humanity for throwing trash into the sea. Clueless about the surface, she seeks to invade humanity alone, trying to rule over the world, only to find herself slaving away at one of the nearest beach-houses for breaking a side of its wall.

• Hellomotto: Well, I guess that they’re trying to imbue an environmental message through anime–an admirable attempt, no doubt. But I just can’t see myself watching this show. Nope.
• Kabitzin: Fufufu, humanity wins again. The trailer was a little too cutesy and heartwarming for my tastes.
• Zyl: The Nomura jellyfish are already striking back though they should be targeting China rather than Japan. I suppose that’s one of those problems that arise when you go with the flow.
• Jesus159159159: I love Squid Girl(see? It’s better to put a label on girls, like Red-Glasses-Girl, Sex-Hair Girl, Brown-Bagger Girl, etc.)’s hair. If Nama-ko had a Squid buddy, I’d bet she’d look just like that. She better play the clarinet or I’m dropping this!

Potential Watchers: Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Don't be fooled! Do not invite them in!!!

Summary: Fortune Arterial’s story revolves around the male protagonist Kohei Hasekura, who transfers into a prestigious public school in the style of an English six-year school encompassing junior-high and high school students. The school is on an island named Tamatsu Island off-shore from mainland Japan, and the only way to get there is by boat. Soon after transferring, he discovers that one of the student in the class next door to his, Sendo Erika, is in fact a type of vampire.

• Hellomotto: If I may: what the hell?! I really don’t see the point of this series. True, not all series need a “purpose,” if you will; but I have a horrible feeling that this will play out atrociously. I mean, c’mon: vampires? Can one possibly beat a dead horse even more? I can see why some people would want to see this; but not me. Nope, not me.
• Zyl: I haven’t watched an adult visual novel/game conversion in a while. May pick this up if it gets Stripey‘s tanuki paw print of approval.
• Halfadeckshort: Shades of Evangeline from Negima!? prompt me to give this one a shot for a couple of episodes.
• Epi: I liked it better when it was called Karin.

Potential Watchers: Halfadeckshort
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Clearly these maids do not understand sweeping either

Summary: It’s the Meiji Era in a slightly alternate Japan, and the Gregorian calendar has just come into effect. The fox-eared girls living in the youkai part of town are about to be put to work together with a delegation of young human soldiers, to promote interracial understanding. So what will happen when Zakuro’s strong personality collides with human sensibilities?

• Kabitzin: In spite of how poor the Yozakura Quartet conversion was, I kinda like shows about yokai and humans living together, especially when the yokai are treated like illegal immigrants. Unfortunately, the trailer for this looked really boring and genteel.
• Zyl: I was initially excited by Nakahara Mai voicing the title character but am having reservations given how I haven’t seen that many of series directed by Chiaki Kon. With respect to those I have seen, I thought Nodame Paris was iffy (though it might have more to do with the source material) and while I do acknowledge Higurashi as a classic but I was completely put off the franchise and did not pick up the sequels. Mari Okada, seems to have a more impressive CV, having done series composition for ToraDora (and though I’ve not watched them, I have also heard good things said about the series composition of True Tears and Mamoru-kun ni Megami no Shukufuku wo!). I’m not sure CANAAN is a plus story-wise but it did provide much unintended yuri-infused hilarity. Will wait and see.
• Epi: The trailer makes it look like this is a late 1990s show.
• Jesus159159159: I’ll try my best to ignore the Digimon character and concentrate solely on the hot dame with the luscious lips. YEAH, SEE?!?! Though, like Kabitzin, I did find the trailer boring. When ya can’t decide, ya give it da 3-Ep Test, SEE?! Yeah, SEE?!

Potential Watchers: Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

~Kira!

Summary: The story centers around Tsukimi Kurashita, a huge fan of jellyfish (kurage, a wordplay on the “kura/mi” and “tsuki/ge” in her name) and a girl who moves to Tokyo to become an illustrator. She moves into “Amamizukan,” an apartment complex that is full of fujoshi (diehard female otaku) with a no-men-allowed rule. However, one day, Tsukimi invites a stylishly fashionable woman to stay at her room at Amamizukan — only to discover that the guest is not who “she” seems to be.

• Hellomotto: Woah there, trap ahoy! Anyways, it has an interesting concept, but I’m not sure how it’ll play out. Still, seeing as though this is a josei (or so I’m told), this might be one of my niche animes. I’ll definitely be checking this one out.
• Jesus159159159: More Sea Critters (Jellyfish Princess) with a dash of upper-lip? Winner of the Kodansha Manga Award for best Shōjo manga in 2010? Airing in the Noitamina Animation Block? Count me in! The art is absolute Stank-Beaver (in a good way) and that premise is totally down under! (the sea…)

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Hellomotto

[ MAL | ANN ]

So THIS is why everyone else can draw so much faster than I can

Summary: Moritaka Mashiro and Akito Takagi are pretty much foils of each other. Mashiro, an average 9th grade student but talented artist, and Takagi, an overall advanced 9th grader and aspiring writer. After great convincing, Takagi convinces Mashiro to join him in becoming the greatest mangakas Japan has ever seen. Takagi, with his gift of writing, hopes to become a successful mangaka, and Mashiro, with his gift of art, hopes to marry the girl of his dreams, Azuki Miho.

• Hellomotto: Well, everybody who follows the manga knows that this is a sure hit. That being said, I’ve been reading the manga, but it hasn’t quite captivated me the way others have. Still, I’ll check this out to see if my experience improves. (Of course, I won’t be blogging it because, well, we already know J159′s gonna do unspeakable things to me and my dead body if I do.)
• Epi: Written by the guy who wrote Death Note. Directed by the guy who directed Honey and Clover and Nodame Cantabile. And under the aegis of the AYAKO DOCTRINE. I believe this is a must watch.
• Jesus159159159: Being an avid reader of the manga, I can say I’m both excited and scared of this adaptation. In this limited brain of mine, there are three paths an anime adaptation can take: 1. Surpass the manga, 2. Take no risks / become an exact copy of the manga, or 3. F*ck it up. I’m going with the 2nd, which is not a bad thing at all, but I recall Death Note as a Category 2 anime which I slightly preferred to the manga. To put it bluntly, the anime version is basically the manga with color and tiny segments of animation. I can’t say this is a bad thing either, especially when Death Note’s story is impossible to alter without destroying the original creator’s intention. Will Bakuman also take this path? Will it be fluid enough (like the manga) to keep me interested? Will it focus mainly on the romance of the characters since that would be a safe bet in the anime industry? I don’t know, but OH BABY OH BABY I’m about to find out! This show is under my belt!! (btw, the anime art is sorta… well, uninspiring)

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Epi, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Jesus159159159

[ MAL | ANN ]

Save your breath; I already know Bruce Willis' character is dead

Summary: Shinrei Tantei Yakumo tells a story about a college student, Saitou Yakumo who is born with different eye colors. His red left eye gives him a special ability to see ghosts and spirits. He believes ghosts and spirits are bound to earth because of a certain “cause,” and simply eliminating that “cause” will let those spirits rest in peace. Being asked for help by Ozawa Haruka, they begin the investigation together.

• Hellomotto: YES. OH GOD YES. YES. Oh wait…this isn’t Natsume Yuujinchou, is it? Still, it’s definitely the top contender for me in terms of previews; I’ll definitely be watching this series. Seeing as though I’ll have limited time in the future (college apps, folks!), I’ll leave this show to a more worthy blogger who will do the series justice.
• Kabitzin: Bee Train with no girls + guns?  I am curious.  Hopefully the production values will be decent.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Kabitzin
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin

[ MAL | ANN ]

Yes, yes, the guy with the red eye already came by; yes, I already know about Bruce Willis' character

Summary: The anime adaptation of the PSP game, the story takes place in an imaginary world in “the Age of Detectives”, where private detectives and phantom thieves overwhelm the cities. It’s about four girls who aim to be great detectives.

• Halfadeckshort: In before Media Blasters swipes the tit-le for an udderly inappropriate hentai localization. This looks a bit too cutesy to take seriously, so it’s a pass for now.

Potential Watchers:
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

I still don't see how this is going to help me do a German Suplex

Summary: This is the sequel to Arakawa Under the Bridge.

• Hellomotto: I would want to watch it, but I’ve got a lot of anime to catch up on–including the first season of Arakawa. And that’s all I have to say ’bout that…
• Zyl: My experience with the first season was very uneven – I liked some of the weird characters and their interactions but disliked others intensely. I was also disappointed by the lack of substantial Recruit x Nino progress. As such, I’ll probably follow this via aniblogs and then pick up only those episodes that focus on Maria (Sawashiro Miyuki), Stella (Saitou Chiwa) and The Amazoness (Kobayashi Yuu).
• Halfadeckshort: I enjoyed the first season (I’ll write up the last episode… soon) and I hope that season two will actually deliver on the potential of the first. And more Maria is never a bad thing. If I do blog this one I may have to change my format a bit (no ads though, promise).

Potential Watchers: Halfadeckshort
Potential Bloggers: Halfadeckshort

[ MAL | ANN ]

Strange, I thought I cleared all the Hakuoukis out of my browser cache

Summary: This is the sequel to Hakuouki.

• Halfadeckshort: Despite the fact that the second word in the title looks like an engrish-y version of “heterosexual,” I’m not buying it. The first season’s bishie designs didn’t do anything for me, and they still don’t. Pass.

Potential Watchers:
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

And if the sun comes up tomorrow, let her be... ooooooh, let her be

Summary: This series is the sequel to Tegami Bachi (Letter Bee).

• Epi: Only saw the first few episodes of Letter Bee… seemed interesting but never got into it.

Potential Watchers:
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Hurry, you must gattai to form the ultimate mech!

Summary: This series is the sequel to Sora no Otoshimono.

• Hellomotto: Woah, more female body parts that every otaku wants! Every otaku but me, that is.
• Epi: Whoa, whoa, whoa. Why doesn’t anyone else care about this?!?!? MUST WATCH. The first season was an absolute riot, how could I possibly pass this up?

Potential Watchers: Epi
Potential Bloggers: Epi

[ MAL | ANN ]

Take 2

Summary: A new anime adaptation of Saki Hasemi and Kentaro Yabuki’s To Love-Ru -Trouble- manga.

• Hellomotto: OH HEY, I SEE PART OF MY NAME IN THE TITLE! That’s about all I have to contribute.
• Zyl: Since it has been predicted that I am destined to marry Konjiki no Yami on December 2, 2011, might just read up on what anibloggers have to say about this series when it airs.

Potential Watchers:
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Wait, who are you again?

Summary: This series is the sequel of Toaru Majutsu no Index.

• Hellomotto: I know for certain that Raph over at Borderline Hikikomori is going to go crazy over this. I haven’t seen the first series, however, so this is a no-go for me. Given its popularity, maybe I should put the first season on my to-watch list…
• Zyl: I hated Touma’s speechifying and was disappointed by Kaori’s angst overdrive but I’m coming back for the spark of Biri Biri as well as Kuroko’s antics and That Voice.
• Halfadeckshort: I enjoyed the first season (and am working my way through Railgun), but I think it worked better when marathoned. Will watch the first few episodes to see if I want to stick with it weekly.
• Epi: Was hoping for a second season of Railgun… still have to finish the first season of Index.

Potential Watchers: Zyl, Halfadeckshort
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Like Kamp Krusty meets Facebook

Summary: The story centers around two sisters, Koshino Hikari and Hikaru, who take care of the paddy they inherited from their parents. Together the sisters grow rice and hang out with their friends in the local area.

• Hellomotto: Well, the character designs (or lack thereof) don’t really reflect upon the seriousness in anime that I usually like…BUT THEY’RE SO DAMN CUTE. It seems like it’ll be rather childish, and again, since I don’t have much time on my hands, I’ll skip this one for now and put it on the back burner.
• Zyl: The cuteness is actually off-putting maybe because it brings back bad memories being bored and horrified at the same time by Binchou-tan.

Potential Watchers:
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Please stop feeding him candy

Summary: Ganta Igarashi has been convicted of a crime that he hasn’t committed, and sent to a new, privately owned and operated prison, where the inmates are the main attraction in a modern day twist to the gladiatorial coliseums of ancient times. Throw in a healthy dose of weird little girl, some new-found super powers, and a little conspiracy theory, and you have Deadman Wonderland.

• Hellomotto: I saw the picture and immediately thought of Eureka Seven. However, I’m sure that it will not be the same, as the plot is completely different. Even still, the concept is interesting: dark and twisted with a touch of magic. I don’t know enough about it, but I’ll check it out.
• Kabitzin: I have read a lot of this manga, and I’m not a fan.  It was interesting at first, feeling like a shounen Highschool of the Dead with less boobage and more distorted faces.  Unfortunately, it starts to drag like your typical shounen series and the fights are really uninspired.  Basically the good guy will have a flashback or epiphany and then power up for a one-shot victory.  Plus, Ganta is generally a little bitch and Shiro annoys the hell out of me.  I guess the series is very anticipated since the creator also did Eureka Seven (which I never finished), but I wasn’t impressed.
• Epi: Well it could be good or it could be bad… might watch a few episodes and decide then.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

I bet those are all guys wearing... kilts

Summary: Unidentified creatures “Archon” suddenly appear and bring the human beings to a crisis of extinction. A special corps “Goulart Knights” is formed to counter attack Archon. The knights have supernatural power to generate “Holy Grail” from their spirits and battle against Archon.

• Zyl: After much agonizing, I have decided not to get Star Craft II: The Wings of Liberty until the expansion set is released.
• Halfadeckshort: LOLKILTS. So is this what happened to the girls who didn’t make the cut in the Seikon no Qwaser casting line? Will watch soma that to see if there’s any terribawesome potential.
• Epi: This show has LOLZ written all over it… except the sucky kind.
• Jesus159159159: No no no! Not Kilt-a-fish! It’s Gefilte Fish! GEHH-FILL-TAHH FIIIIiIIiISSSHH!! Okay, I’m done.

Potential Watchers: Halfadeckshort
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

©2010 Sea Slugs! Anime Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Summer Preview 2010

Draft Order

1. Halfadeckshort
2. Hellomotto
3. Jesus159159159
4. Epi
5. Kabitzin
6. Zyl

It looks like summer will be a season of slim pickings, especially if you don’t like neko-mimi and sequels. Most of this information comes from the chart at Denizen’s blog, as well as MAL and ANN.

That girl is trying to sneak some soma!!!

Title: Highschool of the Dead
Episodes:
Air Date: July 5, 2010
Producers: Madhouse

Summary: A mysterious, lethal disease is on the loose worldwide, resulting in a catastrophic death rate of humanity and the increasing rise of attacks, caused by the living dead.  In Japan, several high school students and a school nurse have banded together to escape Fujimi High School shortly after it was attacked by zombies. The group now attempts to figure who or what was responsible for this plague, and in the meantime, attempt to survive the present apocalypse.

Kabitzin: I’ve read a lot of this manga, and it’s pretty much just fanservice and zombies.  That doesn’t mean that I don’t want to see it animated by Madhouse, though.

Hellomotto: Oh snap, did someone say zombies?…Yeah, I’ve never been a huge fan of them either XD.  In all seriousness, I really can’t say whether or not I’ll like this. I mean, if it tries to become an action/mystery series, I’ll probably become an emu and bury my head in the sand. If it’s a comedy, I might look into it. (Having it animated by Madhouse doesn’t hurt either.)

Halfadeckshort: This looks like fascinating social commentary on consumerist culture (read: TWO BUS TICKETS, PLZ. KTHX).

Epi: Been meaning to read the manga since Jason mentioned it four years ago… but, seeing as how I don’t read manga I should watch the anime.

Jesus159159159: There’s been a lot of Zombie business over the past few years, and I have to say I’m pretty sick of it. I like the fanservice art of the manga, and knowing Madhouse will be behind this, it may not be so bad. Plus the trailer had some good pimp-ho-smacking! Will catch the first few eps for the bouncing!

Zyl: The headline image looks yurilicious but it is probably just my imagination.

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Hellomotto, Halfadeckshort, Epi, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Halfadeckshort, Epi

[ MAL | ANN ]

It shrunk in the dryer

Title: Seikimatsu Occult Academy
Episodes:
Air Date: July 5, 2010
Producers: Aniplex, A-1 Pictures

Summary: The third in TV Tokyo’s Anime no Chikara project, this horror and school comedy story revolves around mystery and supernatural cases at Occult Academy, a fortress-like academic city.

Hellomotto: It has a one-sentence summary and some weird picture, and I’m already sold on it. I mean, c’mon: horror school comedy? The occult? Need I say more?

Epi: Anything high school, I must at least give a chance. I LOLed at the pic on ANN.

Kabitzin: The trailer didn’t give much information, but it did show off some nice animation and character designs.  Plus Maya knows how to sit hard.  I might give it a shot, since horror and comedy sounds like a potent mix.

Halfadeckshort: This is directed by the same guy that did Majin Tantei Nogami Neuro, which I’ll admit that I’ve only seen clips of, but it looks like it might be interesting.

Jesus159159159: If A-1 Pictures continue to add K-ON TEETH, I’ll be all over it! They also supposedly have a character named “JK”, so consider me pumped!

Zyl: I enjoyed So Ra No Wo To and like Anime no Chikara’s attempt to break out of the manga/light novel trend (but avoided Senko no Night Raid like the plague) so will definitely give this a try.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Halfadeckshort, Epi, Kabitzin, Jesus159159159, Zyl
Potential Bloggers: Hellomotto, Kabitzin, Halfadeckshort, Jesus159159159

[ MAL | ANN ]

Aren't you a little too old to be playing with dolls?

Title: Sengoku Basara 2
Episodes:
Air Date: July 11, 2010
Producers: Production I.G

Summary: The second season of Sengoku Basara is a continuation of the action from the first season.  In feudal Japan’s bloody Warring period, there is an endless struggle for power.  Sanada Yukimura and Date Masamune, young warriors and heated rivals, form an unlikely alliance with other generals to take down the Dark Lord, Oda Nobunaga.

Kabitzin: Season 1 was fun, absurd, and violent, but also monotonous.  I expect the sequel will just be more of the same.

Epi: Saw the motorcycle in episode 1 of the first season and never watched again. A shame, because Production IG does great work.

Halfadeckshort: I watched the first season up until episode three, and then I heard that there wasn’t anymore awesome horsecycle action and put it on hold. If I hear enough positive buzz about season two I might pick the first season up again.

Jesus159159159: Mandatory “PUT YA GUNS ON” reference? Nope! Not happening!

Potential Watchers:
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

One of these men forgot to do his hair this morning

Title: Shiki (Corpse Demon)
Episodes: 22
Air Date: July 8, 2010
Producers: Aniplex, Daume

Summary: This series is about the Sotoba village with a population of about 1300 people, and during one fiercely hot summer, many mysterious incidents happened one after another…  With the inexplicable deaths and the strange family moving into the long-abandoned mansion, Hotel dean Toshio Ozaki is caught up with the investigation between hospital staff and the local residents.

Hellomotto: Seems interesting for a mystery-horror series. (Even if this is the third preview for a mystery/horror anime already.) The artwork looks cool, and I’m hoping it’ll be good, but definitely not a series I’d want to blog about.

Epi: From the director of Macross 7 comes this not-so-much Higurashi. Will watch the first episode and see from there.

Kabitzin: I actually don’t like the art style that much, especially the character designs.  Unlike some of the other horror series, however, this one looks to have more horror and less cheese.  Reviews of the manga indicate a dark tone with real creepiness.

Halfadeckshort: Every promotional pic I see from this show is entirely different, so I’m not sure if this is supposed to be a horror show or a BL series, but it’s definitely got gothic styling. Will check out an episode or two to see if it catches my interest.

Jesus159159159: 22 episodes. Pretty interesting number (I’m definitely Catchin’ it), but I do have to question the use of moe characters in these so called “horror” anime. Pink hair with a pink dress? Let me guess, she wants to serve me some Iced Coffee or something, right? I’m not saying this will suck, but let’s stop pandering to the sweaty Otakus already. I have K-ON for that.

Zyl: I would normally automatically pass over a show with this kind of setup but I really enjoyed Mouryou no Hako so might dip into this if it manages to confound the impression of being BL Higurashi.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Epi, Halfadeckshort
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

I can't see what's happening on my right side, but something is molting all over me

Title: Kuroshitsuji 2 (Black Butler 2)
Episodes:
Air Date: July 1, 2010
Producers: A-1 Pictures

Summary: A sequel to the first Kuroshitsuji anime, season 2 continues the story of a 12-year old English noble and his skilled demonic butler.  The new series will introduce butler Claude Faustus and master Alois Trancy as the principal characters.

Hellomotto: Goddangit, this series looks so cool. I wish I saw the first season…Oh well, another series on my to-watch list.

Epi: That butler is clearly not black.

Halfadeckshort: Watched the first series up until episode 6, when the sub release schedule got erratic. It was a decent show, and it sounds like this one focuses on a different set of characters, so I might give it a look.

Potential Watchers: Halfadeckshort
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Ze arms of Pepe are upon you!

Title: Nurarihyon no Mago (Grandchild of Nurarihyon)
Episodes: 24
Air Date: July 5, 2010
Producers: Studio DEEN

Summary: Rikuo Nura is a kid that is 3/4 human and 1/4 youkai.  He lives in a house full of spirits alongside his grandfather, who is the leader of the youkai.  Rikuo is destined to take over his grandfather’s position as the head of the Nura clan, but his human side has no interest.  Rikuo is just a normal kid who has no interest to become the leader of youkai.

Hellomotto: Woah, I just got some strange Inuyasha vibes there (until that last part). Anyways, I’ve never been quite interested in the whole battle aspect of “youkai vs. human” thingy, which seems like what will happen. Now, if this turns out to be the next Natsume Yuujinchou (which it won’t), then I will be moved to tears of joy.

Epi: Wasn’t going to even consider this until I realized that Aya Hirano, Jun Fukuyama and Yui Horie are involved. Directed by Junji Nishimura who directed Ranma 1/2 and True Tears too. Worth a watch.

Kabitzin: I don’t usually read this manga, but from what I saw it looks like a good supernatural shounen series.  Unfortunately, the series is a little too long, and the main character a little too skunky for me.

Jesus159159159: From the trailer, a lot of the characters seem oddly familiar to The Blitchers (maybe it’s the upper-lip-line), but I can’t say it’s a bad thing. I’ll give it the mandatory anime-taste-test and then decide from there.

Potential Watchers: Hellmotto, Epi, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Get ready for some trance music

Title: Densetsu no Yuusha no Densetsu (Legend of the Legendary Heroes)
Episodes: 26
Air Date: July 1, 2010
Producers: ZEXCS

Summary: Raina Ryu is a lazy student of Roland Empire Imperial Special Academy.  One day, Roland Empire goes to war against a neighboring country Estaboole, and he loses his classmates in the battle.  After the war, Ryu sets out for a journey to search the relics of a “Legendary Hero” at Emperor Zion Astar’s command, in spite of the enveloping darkness that has begun to consume the empire.

Hellomotto: I can already imagine the headlines: “Fellow Blogger Hellomotto facepalms at The Legend of Legendary Heroes so hard that his forehead has an indent.” To say the least, I won’t touch this series if it plays out as a typical fantasy adventure story.

Epi: Yang and Reinhard are not impressed. That said, I have yet to see a good fantasy show for a few years, so I should give this at least one episode.

Kabitzin: This sounds a bit cliche, with the usual bouncing between way too serious and RPG goofy, but the trailer showed smooth fight choreography and good production values.  In a season without many choices (in which I have a low draft pick), I’m giving this absurdly titled show some serious consideration.

Jesus159159159: This looks fun but in a stupid way (but still fun!) Also, I think that title won me over.

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin

[ MAL | ANN ]

What happens in HS stays in HS

Title: Amagami SS (Gentle Bite)
Episodes: 26
Air Date: July 1, 2010
Producers: AIC

Summary: A second-year high school boy finds himself uneasy during Christmas time due to an experience in the past.  However, this year at Christmas, he gets his last chance to ask out a graduating female senior named Haruka Morishima — or one of several other classmates.  This adaptation of the PS2 game will be arranged in an omnibus format, with each heroine getting her own version of the story animated.  Each heroine will sing her own version of the ending theme song.

Kabitzin: I don’t know much about this series, but I do know that the girl with the messy hair was partially incorporated in the design of Nama-ko’s hairstyle.

Hellomotto: Wow; this might be the first time I’ve had such a conflict of emotions on the preview of a series. On one hand, I know it’ll probably be set for the otaku population to drool over. In fact, this seems like a skankier version of Kimikiss. Then again, I do get suckered into these things pretty quickly…ah, screw it. I’ll see how it goes.

Epi: Based on a dating sim, decent cast and Christmas time with singing… While I doubt this will reach the epic craziness of White Album, I’ll watch it.

Halfadeckshort: Please let this be trashy, please let this be trashy, please….

Jesus159159159: I think we can all agree that Messy-Haired Girl looks pretty groovy, and we can also agree that the only reason we’re watching this is for said Messy-Haired Girl. I WANNA SNIFF IT SO BADLY!!!

Zyl: It’s a rare thing when game adaptations can (or fail to) integrate the different girls’ stories into a single coherent narrative but I am looking forward to see if AIC can surpass my favorite in this category so far – Asread’s SHUFFLE! Show gets a free pass on the basis of the Shizuka Itou Doctrine.

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Hellomotto, Epi, Halfadeckshort, Jesus159159159, Zyl
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin, Epi, Halfadeckshort, Jesus159159159, Zyl

[ MAL | ANN ]

If there was a problem yo I'll solve it / Check out the hook while my DJ revolves it

Title: Ookami-san to Shichinin no Nakama-tachi (The Wolf and Her Seven Friends)
Episodes:
Air Date: July 1, 2010
Producers: J.C. Staff

Summary: A love comedy parodying fairy tales such as “Little Red Riding Hood,” “The Ant and the Grasshopper,” etc. Ookami Ryoko (Ookami-san) is a spunky high school girl known for her fierce looks, canine teeth, and wild demeanor.  She is a member of a “fixer” club so called Otogi High School Bank.  She fixes the school’s problems with her partner Akai Ringo (Akazukin-chan), a short angelic girl with a deceptively dark demeanor.  Together with their odd friends, they fight to change the world one issue at a time.

Hellomotto: A fairly interesting series just based on the premise. Ookami seems like a carbon copy of Haruhi, sans all the cuteness and all. Akazukin seems like a shorter version of Maria from Arakawa. Plus, the parody thing really gets me interested. I’m just hoping it doesn’t get cheesy at the end of each episode…

Halfadeckshort: Will watch to see if they get eaten by wolves.

Kabitzin: The art in the promo pics looks cool, but the trailer cooled me off a little.  From what I could tell, it looks like a slice-of-life high school comedy where a taller version of Toradora’s Taiga hangs around with a shorter version of Arakawa’s P-ko.

Jesus159159159: J.C. Staff are on a roll with the cute/fluffy/laid-back series, and this seems to continue that trend. Guess this will be my next moe show!

Zyl: I have been looking forward to this since Zaitcev made a(n ani-)note about it. This show would have gotten an automatic pass due to the Shizuka Itou Doctrine too.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Halfadeckshort, Jesus159159159, Zyl
Potential Bloggers: Hellomotto, Jesus159159159, Zyl

[ MAL | ANN ]

I know what you're thinking, and yes they must be paternal triplets

Title: Mitsudomoe
Episodes:
Air Date: July 5, 2010
Producers: Bridge

Summary: A comedy slice of life anime about 11-year old Marui triplets, Mitsudomoe follows the mischievous triplets on their misadventures in Class 6-3.  The triplets are precocious and sadistic Mitsuba, lecherous muscle girl Futaba, and the somewhat mysterious Hitoha.

Hellomotto: Oh God, I just think I puked and laughed at the same time. Those character designs are so bad it’s hilarious. (Yes, I realize that it might be on purpose. Yes, I’m still scarred deeply by it.) But still, this seems like a friend-ish version of Minami-ke, and the first two episodes of that series wasn’t that bad. Meh, I guess I’ll check it out.

Epi: I’m going to call this ‘slice of life’ just to make Baka-Raptor’s head explode.

Halfadeckshort: Something about the lechery + 11-year old combo just doesn’t do anything for me. I’d watch if they were part of a pyromaniac scooter gang though.

Zyl: OMG they spliced and mixed up the various components of Nobue and Miu from Ichigo Mashimaro, but I doubt there will be anything as awesome as the Three Devils Diagram here.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

3 Strikes and you're out

Title: Strike Witches 2
Episodes:
Air Date: July 3, 2010
Producers: AIC

Summary: Taking over from Gonzo, AIC animates the continuation of the first season of Strike Witches.  Set in 1939, it follows an Elite Task Force created to fight the enigmatic Neuroi.  The team combines the magic of young witches gathered from all over the world with new aerial weapons called Striker Units.

Halfadeckshort: I thought they defeated pants already? Still not done watching season one though, so I might be mistaken.

Jesus159159159: I’m part of the camp that hasn’t seen the first season but would love to see the second. If it’s any good, I’ll play catch-up!

Zyl: Small military unit life, war-fighting, animal ears and tails, yuri, Gonzo getting kicked out – what’s not to like? I loved some aspects of the first season (which I give all credit to AIC instead of Gonzo) and am still enamored with Trudie and Mina.

Potential Watchers: Jesus159159159, Zyl
Potential Bloggers: Zyl

[ MAL | ANN ]

Is that your rocket, or are you just happy to see me?

Title: Asobi ni Ikuyo! (Let’s Go Play!)
Episodes:
Air Date: July 10, 2010
Producers: AICPLUS+

Summary: The story revolves around Kakazu Kio, an ordinary high school freshman living in Okinawa.  A girl with cat ears appears before him during a memorial service for one of his family ancestors.  The girl calls herself Eris and claims she is an alien.  Before long, fanatical alien worshipers and a mysterious government agency are in hot pursuit of Eris, but Kio’s childhood friend Manami, who wants to follow in her father’s footsteps in the CIA, captures Eris.  Kio finds himself having to protect Eris from everyone.

Hellomotto: Oh God, I can’t even look at this. Sorry if I offend anyone, but this series just looks absolutely atrocious.

Kabitzin: While all signs point to this being really dumb and cliche, if you think of it as a fanservicey retelling of E.T., suddenly things don’t seem so bad…  I also like how the jealous childhood friend is trying to get the hot new illegal alien love interest deported.  This series looks easy to blog, so maybe I’ll give it a shot.

Zyl: The series title… why? If it’s some kind of sexual innuendo, this might be worth watching. Otherwise it probably should be called Eris-Chan Denwa (Call Home)…

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin

[ MAL | ANN ]

Let me guess, she's also a maid, right?

Title: Seitokai Yakuindomo
Episodes:
Air Date: July 3, 2010
Producers: GoHands, Starchild Records, Dream Force

Summary: Takatoshi is a new student in the recently gender-integrated high school.  He’s asked to join the student council as the vice president.  Thus begins his days as the only normal boy among 3 female student council officers…

Hellomotto: Everything about that summary delighted me…until I saw the part about him being the only guy surrounded by girls. Translated: Guy can get any chick in the student council he wants. Admittedly, it wasn’t that bad, but I’d prefer the series without the harem aspect. Eh, will do recon, I guess.

Epi: Anime about a student council? You bet your ass I’m watching this one.

Kabitzin: I read that the girls basically sexually harass the guy with uncomfortable conversation about woman-stuffs that are not usually discussed in public.

Zyl: We’ve already seen (reverse of) single gender school converted in Spring 2010′s Kaichou wa Maid-sama! Might this be a reflection of what is actually happening in RL Japan given its low birth rate and shrinking school-age demographic cohort? I’m not inclined to watch this but it does trouble me somewhat that I would have definitely considered picking this up if the lead guy was forced to dress up as a (pretty) girl…

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto, Epi
Potential Bloggers: Hellomotto, Epi

[ MAL | ANN ]

After sneaking up on a girl and making her call him daddy, he was promptly arrested

Title: Shukufuku no Campanella
Episodes: 12
Air Date: July 6, 2010
Producers: AIC

Summary: The story takes place in a trading city Ert’Aria, a city known as the “treasury of the world,” which is preparing for a harvest festival.  Leicester Maycraft is a young item engineer belonging to an adventurer guild “Oasis.” One night, he is at a party with his friends and sees a meteor stream onto the rooftop of a chapel.  There he finds a secret room and a sleeping girl.  The girl wakes up and says “You must be my father!”  The encounter with the mysterious girl brings an unexpected adventure to Leicester.

Halfadeckshort: Harem series with paternity issues? Sounds like my kind of show. Will check out the first episode.

Kabitzin: The trailer was boring as hell with a lot of walking around and blushing.  The whole thing felt like a dull H-conversion (and after I looked it up, I found that it is the anime version of a manga adapted from an H-game).

Zyl: Might have decided to pick this up if she had said: “You must be my brother!”

Potential Watchers: Halfadeckshort
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

6 of 8 torpedoes remaining, sir!

Title: Sekirei ~Pure Engagement~
Episodes:
Air Date: July 4, 2010
Producers: Seven Arcs

Summary: This sequel follows the lazy but intelligent Minato Sahashi, who becomes the master of a girl called Musubi, one of the 108 Sekirei.  The Sekirei are beautiful men and women that fight in a competition held by the mysterious MBI corporation.

Hellomotto: I could become just like any other pubescent teenager and say “BOOBS!” and just go crazy and get funky, but I’ve always considered myself the one with special needs. In other words: pass.

Halfadeckshort: I missed the first season for some odd reason, so until I find time to “correct” that, this one is a pass.

Epi: Despite telling Kabitzin that I liked Sekirei, I never got past episode 6.

Jesus159159159: How I miss THE TOTALM@STER, but it’s time I move on… I’LL TAKE OVER FOR HIM!!!

Zyl: I haven’t seen the first season but, given that this is a bishoujo series, I might pick it up if any of my SS!AB Nama-komrades blog this.

Potential Watchers: Jesus159159159, Zyl
Potential Bloggers: Jesus159159159

[ MAL | ANN ]

©2010 Sea Slugs! Anime Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Needs more Marvel

With more writers on the team, I’ve changed up the format just a bit.  We do a snaking fantasy sports style draft, so that list will be provided. This way there is no incentive to tank to get a high pick, and readers can second-guess our picks with the power of hindsight.  Also, I’ve streamlined the lists of who will probably watch and/or blog each series.

Draft Order

1. Zyl
2. Halfadeckshort
3. Hellomotto
4. Jesus159159159
5. Epi
6. Kabitzin

As usual, series aimed at little kids or fans of Romance of the Three Kingdoms, as well as series that are past their second season have been left off.  Most of this information comes from the chart at Denizen’s blog, as well as MAL and ANN.

They call us the lighning god, cause we're raidin'

Title: Senko no Night Raid
Episodes: 13
Air Date: April 5, 2010
Producers: A-1 Pictures, Aniplex

Summary: The story is set in Shanghai in 1931, when the Imperial Japanese Army has been dispatched to mainland China due to the relatively recent First Sino-Japanese War, Russo-Japanese War, and World War I. In this cosmopolitan city of intrigue, there is a special military spy organization called “Sakurai Kikan” that has since been buried in history.

Zyl: Whenever Scientist/Engineer-types complain about bad science in sci-fi series, my response tends to run along the lines of: LOL, it’s just entertainment. I’m all for alternate histories and counterfactuals in my animu but Senko no Night Raid’s setting is a tad too close to, and the story too far from, a very bitter and bloody period of Sino-Japanese history that I’ve spent far too much time studying. Not much entertainment here for me.

Hellomotto: The picture caught my eye, but the summary was only so-so. It just seems like a better-handled version of Canaan: great art and animation, with everything else being meh-worthy.

Jesus159159159: Love the hat! Definitely love the hat, and I like what I’m seeing in the trailer. A-1 and Aniplex are an interesting combo, but where are the K-ON TEETH?! Guess their budget wasn’t too high, but either way, I’ll definitely give it a try!

Epi: This has historical inaccuracy trainwreck written all over it. Might be fun just to poke fun at it.

Kabitzin: This sounds like something I would normally be interested in blogging.  It’s only one cour and it has some nice stylish character designs.  The trailer even showed some action.  I only pause because I’ll have Durarara!! still and that series has about as much thinking as I can handle right now.

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Epi, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Epi

[ MAL | ANN ]

Iron Man is defeated by a cheap Chinese knock-off, The End

Title: Iron Man
Episodes: 12
Air Date:
Producers: Madhouse

Summary: The first of a four-part project between Marvel and Madhouse.  Each season will see Madhouse take a famous comic book character and re-imagine him in a bid to bring the character to a Japanese audience.  This season’s character is Iron Man, and Wolverine will be featured in the summer.

Zyl: When it comes to the super hero genre, I always prefer super bishoujo heroines. Pass.

Halfadeckshort: If this features Tony Stark in alcoholic mode punching lolis, then I’m sure J159 is going to be blogging it. As for me, I’m holding out on American comic book ventures until someone gets with DC for a serious adaptation of The New Teen Titans.

Jesus159159159: That Iron Man never has to iron his clothes, and that makes me really sad. Also, not to sound like a troll, but what part does “Marvel Animation” play in here? I’m just curious if they will animate anything, aka: I would like one of the commenters to answer this question so I don’t have to look it up. Thanks in advance!

Epi: I collected Marvel cards as a kid and I think I had an Iron Man hologram card. Anyway that was the last I heard of it until the Iron Man movie which was excellent. I can’t imagine this being any better.

Kabitzin: Iron Man was never one of my favorite comic book characters, and so I really don’t have that much interest in the series.  Plus, I already know his story, and I’m sure we will only get a very shallow look at Tony Stark.  The trailer didn’t show me anything special, and it was the typical “mysterious bad guy who also gets a suit” Iron Man plot.

Potential Watchers: Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

This picture makes me think of Twitter

Title: Yojo-han Shinwa Taikei
Episodes: 11
Air Date: April  22, 2010
Producers: Madhouse

Summary: The story follows a nameless protagonist who is a third-year college student. The protagonist looks back at the earlier years of his college life and his adventures with a particular club.

Halfadeckshort: I’m somewhat drawn toward this one due to college nostalgia fueled by my recent watching of Honey and Clover, but the art in the trailer was really distracting. I’ll give the first episode a shot to see if there’s any substance to be had.

Hellomotto: This seems like my type of show. I usually hate the weird art, but I don’t mind this type. Even though I’m not in college [yet?], I’ll definitely be checking it out.

Jesus159159159: Third year college student? Funky art work? TWITTER?!?! I’M SOOOO THERE!!! With a combination like that, how could you go wrong!

Epi: If it’s all about ugly art, then forget it. I hate those type of shows. Unless his early college years consisted of looking at microbes, a cross-dressing best friend and lesbian intrigue, I can’t see myself watching this.

Kabitzin: This one’s directed by Yuasa Masaaki and looks to be in that ugly art + confusing philosophy style that I hate so much.

Potential Watchers: Halfadeckshort, Hellomotto, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Hellomotto, Jesus159159159

[ MAL | ANN ]

Under the bridge Arakawa / Is where I drew some blood

Title: Arakawa Under the Bridge
Episodes:
Air Date: April  4, 2010
Producers: SHAFT

Summary: The story is about the strange courtship of a successful executive in life called Kou and a mysterious woman called Nino who lives under a bridge.  It all begins when Kou almost drowns in a river but is saved by Nino.  For saving his life, Kou fulfills Nino’s desire to have a boyfriend.  Thus, Kou becomes her boyfriend, but has to live with her under the bridge, alongside the Arakawa River where many of Tokyo’s most unusual residents live.

Zyl: I’m partial to SHAFT style but I just couldn’t get into last season’s Dance of the Loli Tits at the Vampire Bund. Reserving judgment on this until it starts airing.

Halfadeckshort: I read the first few chapters of the manga and though it has a strong “fish out of water learns that everyone has value despite their differences” feel, it’s got potential for good comedy. I hope that the live action stuff isn’t an indication that SHAFT’s animators were still overbooked though.

Hellomotto: Seems interesting, especially the picture: What the hell is that guy with the star head doing there?! The summary was only so-so, though it reminds me of a romanced-version of Kino’s Journey, about which I’ve only heard good comments.

Jesus159159159: Nice tah Hoshimittsu, Hoshi-Mister! *cricket cricket*…

Epi: I wish I were a successful executive in life!

Kabitzin: Those wacky side characters immediately turn me off, but SHAFT usually does the wacky stuff pretty well. This summary makes me feel like Valentine’s Day should be in summer, so that all those lonely singles can grab jobs as lifeguards and score some guaranteed dates. Also, I really hope the terrible live action stuff is confined to the trailer…

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Halfadeckshort, Hellomotto, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin, Hellomotto

[ MAL | ANN ]

I CAN BREAK THESE CUFFS!!!

Title: Rainbow
Episodes:
Air Date: April 6,  2010
Producers: Madhouse

Summary: Seven teenagers in 1955 have to learn to live together in the same hold in the reformatory of Shio.  Confined in a hall where suffering and humiliation are daily, they are waiting for a ray of hope in a dark, incarcerating world.  The story follows their life together and how they move on afterwards.

Zyl: I might watch this if there was a cross-dressing trap. No, sorry, I lied.

Halfadeckshort: If none of the characters turn out to be brilliant psychotic manipulators a step away from global domination, then I’m not really interested.

Hellomotto: I actually think this’ll be an interesting series, so I’ll be doin’ some recon. Here’s to hoping that Madhouse won’t make it maudlin…wait, no one else agrees with me?…Me so ronery…

Jesus159159159: “1955″ <– This is relevant to my interests! “Rainbow” <– Nevermind!

Epi: I feel without any historical backing to this, I’d be totally lost in this show. Not interested.

Kabitzin: This show looks depressing as hell, and I don’t watch anime to be depressed. Besides, I think it’s clear to everyone that Golgo 13 in the back there is going to bust everyone out and sex all the women like they’ve never been sexed before.

Potential Watchers: Hellomotto
Potential Bloggers: Hellomotto

[ MAL | ANN ]

Eats, shoots, and leaves

Title: Saraiya Goyou (House of Five Leaves)
Episodes: 12
Air Date: April  15, 2010
Producers: Manglobe

Summary: Masterless samurai Akitsu Masanosuke is a skilled and loyal swordsman, but his naïve, diffident nature has time and again caused him to be let go by the lords who have employed him. Hungry and desperate, he becomes a bodyguard for Yaichi, the charismatic leader of a gang called “Five Leaves.” Although disturbed by the gang’s sinister activities, Masa begins to suspect that Yaichi’s motivations are not what they seem. And despite his misgivings, the deeper he’s drawn into the world of the Five Leaves, the more he finds himself fascinated by these devious, mysterious outlaws.

Zyl: I don’t think I’ve watched a samurai flick since Champloo. Sounds interesting but the ghostliness of the chara designs are offputting.

Halfadeckshort: The description makes it sound like Yaichi is secretly giving all of the gang’s proceeds to an orphanage, but I’m intrigued anyway.

Hellomotto: Hmm, interesting art style, and it’s being produced by Manglobe. I’m not one to absolutely love samurai shows, but I’ll be looking at this one, despite it’s flimsy premise.

Jesus159159159: You don’t mess with Natsume Ono I’ll finish blogging Ristorante Paradiso I promise!!, so I’d say this is a sure-fire-hit (whatever that means)!

Epi: I like these sword fantasy shows as long as they are high on the fighting and low on being too weird.

Potential Watchers: Epi, Halfadeckshort, Hellomotto, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Epi, Jesus159159159:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Hey Americans, Bones wants you to know that Madhouse and Iron Man are Communists!

Title: Heroman
Episodes:
Air Date: April  1, 2010
Producers: Bones

Summary: A collaboration between Studio Bones and Stan Lee, the story centers on a boy named Joey who discovers a toy robot near the west coast of the United States. Joey has always wanted to become a hero. Unfortunately he’s just an orphan working part time to support his grandma and himself.  After he watches a toy commercial about a new robot action figure, Joey believes he’ll gain strength if he obtains one.  The only robot toy he can get his hands on is a broken one that was abandoned by a rich school bully.  Feeling pity for the trashed action figure, Joey takes it home to repair it; little did he know that once he repairs the toy,  it’ll make his hero dream become a reality.

Zyl: Given that he is an orphan who works part-time to support his grandma and himself, doesn’t that already make him a hero?

Halfadeckshort: I like my wish fulfillment fantasies with a side of busty meganekko. Pass.

Epi: Errr… okay. Sadly this is the only mecha show of the season. It better not suck or else it’s another long while until Gundam Unicorn episode 2

Kabitzin: The Stan Lee thing seems weird since the rest of Marvel is working with Madhouse, but oh well. This pretty much sounds like one big long commercial. I’d be more inclined to watch this show if the rich school bully was too smart for Joey and fixed the robot himself before taking over the school and making Joey’s life miserable for many more years. Don’t hate the playa, hate the game.

Potential Watchers: Epi (will watch first episode to see if it sucks or not)
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

When did the U.N. get a baseball team?

Title: Ookiku Furikabutte ~Natsu no Taikai Hen~ (Big Windup! 2)
Episodes:
Air Date: April 1,  2010
Producers: A-1 Pictures

Summary: Season 2 of Ookiku Furikabutte; Mihashi Ren moves on to high school convinced he is a lousy baseball pitcher.  Once there, he meets the catcher Abe and the team manager Momoe who together, work to make Mihashi overcome his shyness and fear of being a terrible ace.

Zyl: I generally avoid male-bonding sports anime unless it’s really about something else, e.g. Suzuka for the romance and Battle Athletes for the yuri. Plus I do not understand baseball.

Hellomotto: The first season caught my eye, but then my ADD kicked in and I started noticing the planes in the air…

Epi: Never saw season 1 so I dunno.

Potential Watchers:
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Endless 8

Title: Angel Beats
Episodes: 13
Air Date: April  2, 2010
Producers: PA Works

Summary: In a world after death, angels fight for their fate and their future. Yuri, the leader of the Shinda Sekai Sensen, rebels against the god who destined her to have an unreasonable life. On the other hand, Tenshi, the chairperson of the student council for the world after death, battles against the SSS members. SSS members utilize armed weaponry to battle it out against the angels harnessing supernatural powers.

Zyl: Might be interesting to see how PA Works does Key stuff differently from KyoAni. Plus the SSS leader is called Yuri… But I’ll wait and see what others say about it around the midway point before deciding whether to pick it up.

Halfadeckshort: From the trailer it looks like PA Works is definitely trying to one-up KyoAni when it comes to Key adaptations. I really enjoyed Kanon and Clannad, so I’m looking forward to seeing what happens when they throw blasphemy and bombs into the mix.

Hellomotto: Mmmmkay, so here’s the thing about PA Works: True tears was good, but Canaan just failed everyone of my expectations with the exception of animation. Yes, I do realize that PA Works didn’t produce the story. But I have a feeling that PA works will just put so much of their time and budget into a series that I believe is not as deserving as others. I mean, c’mon: SSS members? Killing Angels? It’s not just a rip-off of the beloved Suzumiya; it’s a Key-derived rip-off. Wake me up when PA Works produces something worthy. I rest my case.

Jesus159159159: Angel Beats this, Angel Beats that! Am I the only one who hasn’t heard of this show?

Epi: Reminds me of the preview statement for Sora No Otoshimono. I thought that show would suck, but it ended up being absolutely brilliant. I dunno about this show though, looks like it may suck cause it doesn’t seem funny at all.

Kabitzin: This looks like the kind of dumb fun I am looking for next season. At 1-cour, it’s perfect, even though I’m sure the plot will be shallow. There’s some action, music, and even some amnesia. This could be the first Key anime I watch. Oh yeah, BTW, if Haibane Renmei had been like this, maybe it wouldn’t have been so damn boring. Yeah, I said it, don’t hate.

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Halfadeckshort, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin, Halfadeckshort

[ MAL | ANN ]

Gold-digger scouting starts at an early age

Title: Ichiban Ushiro no Dai Maou
Episodes: 12
Air Date: April  2, 2010
Producers: Marvelous Entertainment, Artland

Summary: The story of “love, magic, and battles” revolves around Akuto Sai, a boy who aims to become part of his country’s highest order of magicians and contribute to society as one of its clergy. On the day he is admitted into the Constan Magical Academy, his aptitude test predicts the following: “Future Occupation … Devil King.” Thus begins his severe school life in which he is resented by his studious female class head, desired by a girl with mysterious powers, and guarded by a beautiful female android.

Zyl: This might be so bad that it’s good. I’m committed to giving it a go on the basis of the Shizuka Itou Doctrine.

Halfadeckshort: The trailer makes this look ridiculously bad, which means that it will be awesome. Or terrible. Either way, I’m watching it.

Epi: Ever since Someday’s Dreamers (Mahō Tsukai ni Taisetsu na Koto) there’s been a magic high school show every season. Except they usually suck. The only show in this entire genre that was actually any good was Magic User’s Club (Maho Tsukai Tai!) which seems to have garnered low ratings on ANN.

Kabitzin: The trailer showed that this will be chock-full of fanservice with a lot of cliche stuff like explosions and tattered clothing.  However, I did find the rope underwear low angle shot to be rather original (and odd).

Potential Watchers: Zyl, Halfadeckshort
Potential Bloggers: Zyl, Halfadeckshort

[ MAL | ANN ]

Get back to work you slackers!!

Title: Working!!
Episodes:
Air Date: March 6,  2010
Producers: A-1 Pictures

Summary: Set in a family restaurant in Hokkaido, the northern prefecture of Japan, 16 year old high school student Takanashi Souta works part-time along with his strange co-workers: Taneshima Popura, a high school girl who’s a year older than Souta who’s easily mistaken for a elementary/middle school student, and Shirafuji Kyoko, the 28-year old store manager who doesn’t bother to do any work at all.

Zyl: I enjoyed the first episode’s introduction of the oddball cast and look forward to more of their interactions.

Hellomotto: I’ll be leaving this one up to Zyl. Doesn’t interest me that much anyways.

Jesus159159159: Another A-1 Pictures? At least they got the K-ON TEETH down.

Kabitzin: You know, if you are 16 then you are not really that far removed from middle school… Also, being a manager is all about delegating the work that you don’t want to do, i.e. all of it.

Potential Watchers: Zyl, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Zyl

[ MAL | ANN ]

Watch out Eli

Title: Giant Killing
Episodes: 26
Air Date: April  4, 2010
Producers: DEEN

Summary: In Giant Killing a ragtag bunch from East Tokyo are struggling in Japan’s top football league. The team is going through an abysmal spell right now where they are nearing the bottom of the table and have lost 5 matches in a row. The loses haven’t done much to team moral, because it was already low. Fan support, on the other hand, is looking bleak. In the world of football, once the fans turn on a team the end is near. Teams don’t recover. Coaches are fired, players are sold, and teams drop to smaller divisions where profits often prevent them from ever being successful against even mediocre top division programs. East Tokyo United, ETU, can only blame their coach right now. And Coach is ready to give up this next game to prove to his team and fans, that against the biggest club in the nation he can make this team win.

Hellomotto: Okay, so when I first read the summary, I thought it was the American football, to which I cheered. However, it was the European football (to me, soccer), which kind of let me down. Still, I’ll be checking this one out, though I’ll probably be dropping it soon.

Epi: This sounds like it may be good. I don’t usually watch sports anime (and in fact I don’t think I have since I was eight) but hey why not? I fear though that this won’t really have much in terms of translation.

Potential Watchers: Epi, Hellomotto
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

This may be the only way to get Mayweather to accept the bout

Title: Ring ni Kakero 1: Kage Dou Hen (Put It All in The Ring 1: Shadow Road)
Episodes:
Air Date: April  2, 2010
Producers: Toei

Summary: After defeating Black Shaft’s makeshift Team America, the Golden Japan Jr. team returns to training for the World Tournament that will be held in Tokyo. But during training the Shadow Clan, which uses boxing as an assassination technique, kidnaps Kiku in order to lure Ryuji and the others into a fight to see who’s truly the better representative of Japan’s junior boxers.

Zyl: Even if this series took a DeLorean back to the 1980s, I still wouldn’t have watched it; the premise is just completely WHAT.

Halfadeckshort: Despite the tremendous potential for badness (seriously, boxing assassins?) I fear that this will run the mediocre route. Pass.

Kabitzin: Oh god, so retro. The dated art alone is more than enough for a technical knock out. Also, the idea of boxing as an assassination technique is ridiculous. Most of the time, especially at the lighter weights, you have to punch a guy hundreds of times in the head just to knock him out. I wouldn’t be surprised to see these assassins out of work in a few months.

Potential Watchers:
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

Alright, who turned on the ceiling boob magnet?

Title: B Gata H Kei
Episodes: 12
Air Date: April 1,  2010
Producers: Hal Film Maker

Summary: Yamada is a virgin high school student who dreams of having 100 casual sex partners. However, she ends up targeting and pursuing only one boy.

Zyl: Should aim for 300.

Halfadeckshort: On the surface this sounds like it could be really trashy, but it also sounds like Yamada is just plain lazy. If this actually gets subbed (watch it show up on Crunchyroll) I’ll check out the first couple of episodes because Hal Film Maker has a lot of credit with me. Hopefully this one won’t set them to 0.

Hellomotto: Meh, I got enough sluts at my school potential shows to blog this season, so I’ll be sitting this one out.

Kabitzin: Do it for the aging population of Japan! Sounds like she wusses out of what could have been the reverse School Days of the season, and this is almost certainly going to degenerate into your typical ‘shy girl having blushing fits and over-steamed head because she doesn’t go on the internet enough’ story.

Potential Watchers: Halfadeckshort
Potential Bloggers: Halfadeckshort (if subbed and trashy)

[ MAL | ANN ]

No eating while you're Working!!

Title: Kaichou wa Maid Sama
Episodes:
Air Date: April 1,  2010
Producers: J.C. Staff

Summary: A romantic comedy that centers on the student council head named Misaki Ayuzawa who despises the mostly male, slovenly population at her school, which was once an all-boys school. H owever, Misaki’s most handsome schoolmate just discovered her secret — that she works after school at a maid café.

Zyl: Let her do what she likes, she’s pretty. Immortal words of wisdom from Sei Satou.

Halfadeckshort: From the manga it looks like this one might be pretty decent in the drama and possible meido blackmail departments. I want to read more, but I don’t want to spoil anything.

Hellomotto: I read some of the manga, and it was kinda interesting, albeit generic. I’ll probably get bored of it soon enough, but I’ll try it out.

Jesus159159159: Man, maids are soooooooo overrated, but I can’t deny the buzz. Will watch for 3 eps, then I’ll decide.

Epi: Must watch all student council related anime. End communication.

Kabitzin: I like the character designs, and the plot doesn’t sound terrible. I read a little of the manga and it seemed alright, though nothing too different from your typical shoujo manga.

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Epi, Zyl, Halfadeckshort, Hellomotto, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin, Epi, Halfadeckshort

[ MAL | ANN ]

Her father must be Dr. Love

Title: Hakuouki
Episodes:
Air Date: April 4,  2010
Producers: Studio DEEN

Summary: The protagonist, Yukimura Chizuru is the daughter of a doctor who works in Edo. The father leaves Edo to work as a volunteer doctor and moves to Kyoto without his daughter. As time passes by, Chizuru starts worrying about losing contact with her father, so she decides to go to Kyoto in search of him. On the way, Chizuru is attacked by few criminals and witnesses a fight between an oni and the Shinsengumi. Taking her into custody and saving her, the Shinsengumi debate on what to do with Chizuru when they discover that she is the daughter of the doctor they are also looking for. So they decide to become Chizuru’s protectors and help her look for her father. Lots of events happen while she stays with the Shingensumi, as they discover mysterious secrets and also fight against the Bakumatsu group.

Epi: This sounds like it could potentally be really cool. But this review gives me the Yaoi creeps: “The TV anime series Hakuoki is based on a series of yaoi’ish games released by Idea Factory for the PlayStation 2 and PSP. The first game’s story centers around a female protagonist and the historical Shinsengumi samurai group in Kyoto during the 19th century.”

Kabitzin: The art looks good, and this can’t be more annoying than Peacemaker Kurogane, right?

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Epi
Potential Bloggers: Epi (if it proves to be not Yaoi)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Omigosh I'm sorry, the door was open and... I'll let you two get back to what you were doing...

Title: Uragiri wa Boku no Namae wo Shitteiru (Betrayal Knows My Name)
Episodes:
Air Date: April 11,  2010
Producers: J.C. Staff

Summary: Sakurai Yuki is a mysterious boy with a mysterious ability. He was found in the bushes as a baby and adopted by his current family. Because of this, Yuki strives for independence. The last thing he wants is to be a burden to anybody. Furthermore, when he touches others, he can feel their emotions. Unable to control his ability, he often made insensitive blunders in the past. With death threats and his abilities increasing, what will happen when a man claiming to be his older brother appears?

Zyl: The abbreviated series title, UraBoku, could possibly translate into Back Alley Me.

Kabitzin: BeGAYal knows my name, amirite?

Potential Watchers:
Potential Bloggers:

[ MAL | ANN ]

I updated this poster for you

Title: K-ON!!
Episodes:
Air Date: April  6, 2010
Producers: Kyoto Animation

Summary: The second season of K-ON; It’s Yui Hirasawa’s first year in high school, and she’s eagerly searching for a club to join. At the same time, Ritsu Tainaka, a drummer, and her friend Mio Akiyama, a bass player, are desperately trying to save the school’s light music club, which is about to be disbanded due to lack of members. They manage to recruit Tsumugi Kotobuki to play the keyboard, meaning they only need one more member to get the club running again. Yui joins, thinking it will be an easy experience for her to play the castanets, the only instrument she knows. However, the other members think their new addition is actually a guitar prodigy…

Zyl: Did they even bother to update the synopsis from the first season? Other than that, MOE BLOB BANZAI! BANZAI!! BANZAAAAAAIIIIIII!!!!1

Halfadeckshort: Though I wished that the girls would have taken the metal route, I admit that I occasionally get the chorus of “Fuwa Fuwa Time” stuck in my head. Because of that I probably shouldn’t watch season two, but will most likely end up watching anyway. Somewhat guiltily.

Hellomotto: …Well I…Well…Oh, just forget it; I won’t be able to go through so much torture again.

Jesus159159159: WHERE DA HOOD WHERE DA HOOD WHERE DA HOOD AT?!?! *KA-CHING KA-CHING* Mmmm, hmmmmmm!! Oh my, oh my! I’ve been waiting for this all my life! You best believe I’m gonna blog this! This one’s for you, Super Forshizzle Kitten ;_; (R.I.P. x159)

Epi: Never finished the first series, can’t see myself watching this.

Potential Watchers: Zyl, Halfadeckshort, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Jesus159159159

[ MAL | ANN ]

Can I keep them?

Title: Mayoi Neko Overrun!
Episodes: 12
Air Date: April  6, 2010
Producers: AIC

Summary: The story revolves around Takumi Tsuzuki, a boy who lives with his older “sister” Otome, although the two have no blood ties between them. Otome manages a run-down confectionery store called Stray Cats. One day, Otome picks up a mysterious beautiful girl off the streets.

Zyl: Depends on how much screen-time the non-blood-related older sister has.

Jesus159159159: I’ll watch anything with cats in them! (and by in them, I mean my penis)

Kabitzin: It looks cute and simple, and I like the art. Hey, when you have last pick, you have to have a safety series. I checked out a little of the manga, and while there is fanservice, it’s mostly cutesy. I wouldn’t say this series pushes the envelope very much.

Potential Watchers: Kabitzin, Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Kabitzin

[ MAL | ANN ]

Good thing he's their brother from another mother

Title: Kiss X Sis
Episodes: 13
Air Date: April  5, 2010
Producers: Feel

Summary: Keita has two older step-sisters, Ako and Riko, but since they aren’t related by blood, they love him in a lustful way.  After a mishap at school, Ako and Riko finally confess their love to him. Keita dislikes the thought of seeing them as anything other than brother and sisters, but as he tries to enter the same school as his sisters, he slowly becomes attracted to them.

Zyl: Falls under the jurisdiction of the Holy Empire of Hontounia so my Evil Blogging Overlord wrt this series will be Stripey rather than Kabitzin.

Halfadeckshort: I’m curious about what they’re going to do with this one given the just-shy-of-hentai nature of the manga and OVAs. If it’s going to be a retread of the source material with watered-down ecchi then I’ll pass.

Hellomotto: I’m a growing fan of yuri, but this doesn’t quite seem like my type of show, so I’ll pass.

Jesus159159159: Haha, that girl looks like she taped a squirrel’s ass on her forehead… I’m game!

Kabitzin: At least they won’t have to change their last name when they get married, right? Plus they can have polygamy and no one will really ever be sure of what’s going on. What an elegant solution, Q.E.D.

Potential Watchers: Jesus159159159
Potential Bloggers: Jesus159159159 (maybe…)

[ MAL | ANN ]

©2010 Sea Slugs! Anime Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Suck on this

The shounen fighting stuff is pretty generic, but I found moments like this kinda funny. Also, so much chemistry…

©2010 Sea Slugs! Anime Blog. All Rights Reserved.

Small pool

I took most of last season off, but I’m hoping to watch (and blog) more series this winter.  Fortunately, I can’t get too ambitious because there are not that many shows listed for the upcoming winter season.  Rather than catch up on Tatakau Shisho and continue it through next season, I think I’ll just drop it now and pick up all new series in winter.  Pickings look to be especially slim this winter.  Most of this information comes from the chart at Denizen’s blog, as well as MAL and ANN.

Durarararararara... oops, I stuttered

Title: Durarara!!
Episodes: 24
Air Date: January 7, 2010
Producers: Brainsbase

Summary: From the creators of Baccano!!, this story takes place in a downtown neighborhood of Tokyo, Ikebukuro where teenage punks gang up and fight against each other.  The gangsters are afraid of an urban legend, “Dullahan” headless rider, who rides a black motorcycle without head lights nor sounds of engine. Ryuugamine Mikado is a normal high school boy who seeks peculiar beings but when he transfers to a school in Ikebukuro (at the invitation of his childhood friend Masaomi), a mad scramble for Dullahan’s missing head breaks out.  The story features an ensemble cast of street thugs, high school students, a female radio host, and underworld doctor, a young information vendor, and a headless Irish fairy.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: This show has me pretty psyched, in spite of the plot summary.  I love that the art style looks very similar to that of Yozakura Quartet, except with a good budget.  I liked Baccano!! a lot, and so I have faith that Durarara!! will be able to handle the ensemble cast deftly.  There’s even violence against cell phones and a neko-mimi motorcycle helmet.  Hopefully this show will be able to put it’s best Pussyfoot forward. (Will watch | Will blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: “From the creators of Baccano!!” SOLD!! Also, you can’t go wrong with double exclamation marks (for emphasis)!! The art style is looking pretty lanky (<3) and I have high expectations for Brain’s Base, considering they’ve also done some of my other favorites, including Kure-Nai, Kamichu!, and Natsume Yujin Cho (lets forget about this one, kay?). Definitely on the watch list! (Will watch| Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : I never saw Baccano!! so I have no expectations. Looks like it could be an interesting show, but also looks like they are being really ambitious. It could end up sucking big time if they don’t pull it off properly considering the large cast. (Will watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

At first I thought it was Dance In The Vampire Bung T__T

Title: Dance in the Vampire Bund
Episodes: 12
Air Date: January 7, 2010
Producers: SHAFT

Summary: After millennia in hiding, Mina Tepes (the Princess of the ancient covenant and ruler of all vampires, wants change). Using the vast wealth of the Tepes line, she has paid off the entire gross national debt of Japan and in so doing, gained the authority to create a “special district” off the coast of Japan that is to become the future haven to vampires the world over!  Now, on the eve of the landmark press conference announcing the existence of vampires to the world, terrorists and rival factions are plotting to assassinate Mina Tepes before she has a chance to make her world-changing announcement.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Reminds me of Eden of the East, except with more decapitations, groping, and fanservice; this is so much better than spending all your money on NEETS.  The production values look pretty nice, and perhaps this show won’t be prone to quite as many SHAFT-isms (haha, what am I saying?).  If nothing else, the trailer suggests that Dance in the Vampire Bund should be a bloody, gratuitous ride; also, there is a werewolf. (Will watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Loli vampire with UPPER-LIP?!?! SOLD!… but to be honest, Vampires are getting old… but this one isn’t because she’s a loli *ba dum psh* No seriously, Vampires are really starting to tick me off, but I do love me some upper-lip! (Will watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : Despite the fact that the main character looks loli, if she’s actually 1000 years old that’s okay right? Anyway, as long as this isn’t too SHAFT (I couldn’t keep up with Bakemonogatari because I watch anime after work and my brain is too zonked to read 100000000 words a second) this looks like it will be good! (Will watch | Will blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Is this like Lucky Star?

Title: So・Ra・No・Wo・To
Episodes: 13
Air Date: January 4, 2010
Producers: A-1 Pictures

Summary: The story takes place in an imaginary town Seize (the model cities are Cuenca and Alarcón Fortress in Spain).  A long war brings a gradual decline to the world, people disappear from Seize, and fishes cease to exist in the sea. 15-year old Kumika realizes her dream of enlisting in the army, and joins a unit of five in  protecting a fortress.  Together they create music that reverberates across the skies, over empty towns and empty seas.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I guess the whole light music club thing didn’t work out, eh?  This looks like it will probably end up being a slice-of-life show, which doesn’t draw me in much, but at least it’s only 1-cour long.  I find it interesting that it’s set in Spain, as that’s not your typical setting in anime.  In spite of the K-ON look, there’s no connection on staff.  (Might watch | Might blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: There’s an Owl in the background! *BA DUM PSH*  Show ▼

(Will watch | Might blog)

Epi’s Reaction : K-ON! meets one of those zillion of  ‘group of girls in the military’ shows eh? Sounds dumb. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Better keep Shin away

Title: Hanamaru Kindergarten
Episodes: 12
Air Date: January 10, 2010
Producers: Gainax

Summary: Anzu goes to a preschool with her friends, the shy Koume and the eccentric Hiiragi. Together they try to attract attention from their caretaker Tsuchida. However, he is clearly more interested in the pretty Yamamoto who supervises the class next door.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: If only I could know this show would be more like Potemayo, I’d give it a chance.  Alas, I expect this to be more traditionally heart-warming than wacky.  Trailer looked cute, but boring.  Let me know if the caretaker throws his wards in plug suits and EVA units, though. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Gainax?!?! Shy Koume?!?! SOL-….*looks at picture again* I’ll let someone else take the dive for me. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : I know Gainax is making this but… what the heck? (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Needs more CG instruments

Title: Nodame Cantabile Finale
Episodes: 11
Air Date: January 14, 2010
Producers: J.C. Staff

Summary: At a top music academy in Japan, Shinichi Chiaki is a talented pianist.  When sent to a low class after an argument with a teacher, he meets a girl, Noda, who moves in next to him.  When they are given the chance to study at Paris, Noda goes with Chiaki to Europe, as he strives to fulfill his dream of being a conductor.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I thought the first season was alright, but Noda kinda pisses me off.  So unless Chiaki starts cheating on her with some hot slutty conductor, I think I’ll pass on this one. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: I thought the first/second season was great, but the second did end on a dry note *hyuk*. Definite watch! And it looks like the other groupies Sluggies won’t pick it up! FORTE FORTE! BASALBINE!! MAMA-MIA!! WOO-HOO! *swoosh swoosh* (Will watch | Might blog)

Epi’s Reaction : I watched the live-action version a while ago… I think that got to the end? It was a while ago. I didn’t watch NC Paris yet, but I guess I would have to if I’m to properly watch this. If I get around to it, I’ll watch this show. (Might watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Reminds me of Samurai Jack

Title: Katanagatari
Episodes: 12
Air Date: January 25, 2010
Producers: White Fox

Summary: This story teakes place in the Edo era where Yasuri Shichika is the seventh head of the Kyotou school of Japanese sword martial arts living in Fushou Island with his sister Nanami. With the order from a female samurai general Togame, he sets out for a trip to collect the twelve treasured swords created by a legendary swordsmith Shikizaki Kiki.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: That hair!  That is some You Don’t Mess With the Zohan-level feathering!  There’s even something that looks like the love child of a hime cut and twin drills!  Shows like this tend to be too artsy and slow, but with only 12 swords and 12 episodes…  Too bad, this is a historical anime that some reports state will consist of monthly 1-hour long episodes. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Oh! Very interesting style, but I’ll let others check it out before making my decision. Too much online-hw! (Might watch | Won‘t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : Inuyasha meets weird art style… hmmm (Might watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

I like mine with cereal

Title: The Qwaser Of Stigmata
Episodes: 24
Air Date: January 4, 2010
Producers: Taki Corporation

Summary: In St. Mikhailov Academy, Oribe Mafuyu meets a silver haired boy called Alexander.  He is a Qwaser, a being who can manipulate iron and draws his power from breast milk.  A mystery surrounding an icon tranforms the academy into a setting for conflict between the various Qwasers.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: As a new dad, I have to say that this premise is ridiculous and makes me throw up in my mouth a little.  On the other hand, the production values look nice and I like the character designs. Things might go better if purposely absurd plot elements are worked in, but I hear the plot is actually about Russian Orthodox religion.  Encouraged by some other people’s reports, I read the first few chapters.  There were bare breasts on the first page, and explicit (and unrealistically fast) breastfeeding within the first chapter.  Basically, in every chapter some girl will get attacked by a scary demon and after she gets her top torn off, Alexander stops by for a drink and defeats the demon with his superior knowledge of chemistry.  In between fights, you get typical fanservice-filled Christian private school fluff.  Also, as I understand it, women do not normally just lactate, so unless all those girls were recently knocked up, Alexander would be trying to squeeze water from a stone. (Might watch | Might blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Draws his power from breast milk? Are you (ce)REAL? *BA DUM PSH* After reading Kabitzin’s reaction (it’s above mine… *blush*), I’ve got to say that I’m excited, and I’m definitely gonna read the manga (but only if Mentar recommends it ;3)  (Might watch | Won‘t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : Y’know that poster looks awesome… the plot description sounds insipid. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

So do the top students get bidets?

Title: Baka to Test to Shoukanjuu (The Idiot, the Tests, and the Summoned Creatures)
Episodes: 13
Air Date: January 6, 010
Producers: Silver Link

Summary: The story centers around Akihisa Yoshii, the titular “baka,”  who attends an academy that divides up the student body into classes based on the results of tests. The prodigies are in the A class with reclining seats complete with air conditioning, but Akihisa is in the lowest F class, which is furnished only with low, decrepit tables and worn-out straw tatami mats. A girl named Mizuki Himeji is actually one of the smartest girls in Akihisa’s sophomore year, but she had a fever on test day and was pigeonholed into the F class. Besides Mizuki (who Akihisa secretly adores), the F class also has Yūji Sakamoto, the class president who has been Akihisa’s friend and partner-in-crime since the freshman year.

The school happens to have developed experiments to summon fantasy creatures, and Akihisa decides to rally F class to take on the higher-tiered classes and seize their perks. The F class uses the summoned creatures in an all-out battle for school supremacy.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: My pokemons; let me show you them.  This sounds retarded to me, but the thought of my HS classmates imagining fantasy summons while I dominated them in terms of grades makes me giggle nostalgically.  Trailer makes it look like something for kids, though some might like the chibi RPG clashes.  (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Whoa! Pretty intense background music! (?) but I’m going to pass on this as well. Perhaps it might be cheesy in a good way, but I’d rather not find out. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : I read the description and still have ABSOLUTELY NO IDEA WHAT THIS SHOW IS ABOUT (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Sketchier than ever

Title: Hidamari Sketch x ☆☆☆
Episodes:
Air Date: January 7, 2010
Producers: SHAFT

Summary: Yuno has begun her new artist’s life in her new dream school, Yamabuki High School.  In front of the school is an apartment complex called Hidamari-so, where she moves in and meets classmates, senior students, and other strange artists.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I have never seen a single episode of Hidamari Sketch, and I don’t plan on breaking my streak.  How do you even pronounce this ridiculous title, anyway? (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: WASSHOI! WASHO SHOI! SOLD!!! BLOGGIN’ IT!!! I’M BRINGIN’ YOU DOWN TO HELL WITH ME, YA BASTARD!!! But honestly, it’s great to have more Hidamari Sketch, and the introduction of two new wide-faced characters is a 16:9 15:9-aspect-ratio-plus (interesting hair color…). Did Yuno that I know that Yuno is Sweet? (Also, Yuno is mai waifu. Do not claim) (Will watch | Will blog)

Epi’s Reaction : Didn’t see the first 2 seasons, don’t see why I should start now. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Deuce Bigelow 3

Title: Harukanaru Toki no Naka de 3 ~Owarinaki Unmei~ (In a Distant Time 3: Neverending Destiny)
Episodes:
Air Date: January 3, 2010
Producers: Yumeta Company

Summary: Akane Motomiya is pulled by a demon into another world where she becomes Priestess of the Dragon God, protected by eight men known as the Hachiyou.  The people of this world tell her she is the only one who can stop the demons, who mean to claim her power, from taking over.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Tamahome!  Miaka! I think this is supposed to be a retelling, rather than a sequel, but it’s a retelling of a story I wasn’t interested in the first time around.  (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Not my style. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : Why is this called In a Distant Time 3? Were there 2 previous shows I missed? If the artwork didn’t remind me of that horrible Saiyuki anime a while back, I’d give it a chance. Unless this secretly becomes 12 kingdoms, I won’t be watching. Unlike Kabitzin I actually like this genre though, Fushugi Yugi was fun! (Might watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

This is gonna stain, isn't it?

Title: Ookami Kakushi (Hidden God)
Episodes:
Air Date: January 7, 2010
Producers: AIC

Summary: Nestled in the mountains far away from the city, the serene village of Jogamachi is divided by a river that separates old Jogamachi from new Jogamachi.  The story follows Hiroshi Kuzumi, a 16-year-old boy who has just moved to Jogamachi and soon discovers that the village’s ancient mysterious traditions and customs have been kept alive over the ages. Although a bit bewildered by the new environment, Hiroshi begins to settle into his new life and quickly earns the affection of his classmates.  The sole exception is aloof class president, Nemuru Kushinada, whose only words to Hiroshi are a warning to stay away from the old part of town.  There terror and mystery awaits.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I am a big Peach Pit fan, so I’ll definitely give this one a chance.  There’s not too much on the website to go by, and I never played the mystery game (a collaboration between Peach Pit and Ryukishi07, of the “When They Cry” series) the anime is based off of.  However, as much as I like Peach Pit (who I think only did the designs), this sounds more Higurashi style than anything else, as there are reported to be “10 stories, intertwined by the idle thoughts of people caught in repeating nightmares.” (Might watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Love the hat! Definitely love the hat! (Might watch | Won‘t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : Unless there’s baseball bats and hatchets, I’m staying away from this one, kyuh kyuh. (Might watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Merry Christmas!

Title: Omamori Himari
Episodes: 12
Air Date: January 6, 2010
Producers: ZEXCS

Summary: Yuuto is your average, high school boy just turned 16. His childhood friend, Rin has taken care of him ever since his parents died when he was younger.  All of a sudden, a girl named Himari walks into his life. Himari is a beautiful spirit descended from a family known for subjugating demons; there’s only one small problem: Yuuto is allergic to cats!

Kabitzin’s Reaction: At first I thought I had accidentally found the description for Nyan Koi…  This sounds pretty generic, and the art isn’t good enough to perk my interest.  Also, cat allergies are usually caused by cat dander and saliva, and since I assume Himari doesn’t lick herself clean, she could probably solve the dilemma by wearing a hospital-grade hair net. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Whoaa!!! Those are some nice tits! =D… It’s like Azu-Nyan, BUT WIT DAH TITS, MAN!!! Of course I’m not watching this crap! The cats in the background are cute, though =3 (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : I like how the description doesn’t mention cats until it says it’s a problem… like it makes no sense. I guess that nekkid girl is a cat spirit? (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

The Butler Battle Book

Title: Ladies Versus Butlers
Episodes:
Air Date: January 5, 2010
Producers: XEBEC

Summary: Hino Akiharu lost his parents when he was small and was adopted into his uncle’s family. When he noticed his uncle is after the inheritance of his parents, he decides to enter a boarding school, Hakureiryou high school.  Akiharu is placed in the school’s new servant training department, where students are raised to be maids or butlers.  However his delinquent boy-like appearance frightens the girls, who make up the majority of the students. Unable to get along with the classmates, Akiharu meets his childhood girlfriend Saikyou Tomomi and finds himself stuck in the middle of the school’s bickering cliques.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: There’s not a lot of information to go on, but I’m pretty confident that this show will have a generic plot, crappy production values, and plenty of fanservice.  The preview supports my hypothesis, and looks exactly as you would expect it to. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: …what is that yellow device in the background?… is that her hair?!?! HOLY BA-JEEVER-KITTENS!!! How long *ba dum psh* has she been growing that thing? (disclaimer: I’m not certain if that really is her hair…) (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : Boarding schools are only fun if filled with Yuri. Xebec needs to go back to doing Sci-Fi! (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

This must be the Chubrakabra

Title: Chu-Bra!!
Episodes: 12
Air Date: January 4, 2010
Producers: ZEXCS

Summary: The story centers on Nayu, a middle school girl who shocks her schoolmates on the first day of school by wearing black lace panties. She likes this kind of underwear, and she tries to “spread the word on the merits of [these kinds of] underwear” via an underwear club with her schoolmates, who are worried about their bodies’ development and which underwear to choose.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Middle-schoolers wearing black lace panties… what an idea for a plot!  And how does Nayu run her advertising campaign?  Witty bumper stickers worn on the bum?  Art looks extremely crappy, though, so I guess I’ll never find out. (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Oh?! Another title with double-points-of-exclamation!?! SOLD (lol @ the boob jiggle at the end)!! But they shouldn’t copy the patented wide-face. That’s not cool. (Will watch | Won‘t blog)

Epi’s Reaction : If only she got energized by breast milk… (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

©2010 Sea Slugs! Anime Blog. All Rights Reserved.

So I heard you like sequels...

Most of this information comes from the chart at Denizen’s blog, as well as MAL and ANN.  I’m excited because we’ll have three people blogging again, which means more series covered by SS!AB.  I might cut my load to 3 new series (depending on episode counts), to leave room for Winter series since I will be picking up all new shows in the Fall.  Putting this together was soul-sucking, but less soul-sucking than in the past because I got to read what Epi and Jesus159159159 had to say about the various series.

Kemeko Deluxe meets Kaleido Star

Title: Kuchu Buranko (Trapeze)
Episodes: 11
Air Date: October 15, 2009
Producers: Toei Animation

Summary: In modern Japan, people visit “doctors of neurology,” rather than therapists.  Dr. Ichiro Irabu is an eccentric neurologist with an injection fetish, an Oedipus complex, and a green Porsche, known for making patients much worse before they get better.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I don’t usually like these episodic help-people-out shows, unless all the clients end up victims like in Franken-Fran.  Nothing I’ve seen so far has enticed me, although the idea of an injection fetish makes me snicker.  And how can a little girl have an Oedipus complex?  (Won‘t watch | Won‘t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: I’ve heard many good things about the Director’s work, but I really hate that Takashi Murakami-styled art. I’ll definitely give the first 2-3 episodes a try, but hopefully they don’t get too funky with the art. (Might watch | Might blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Looks like a ridiculously weird show. I don’t know what to think about this. From the website it looks like they might be doing some weird SHAFT-type animation/live action hybrid stuff. I don’t know if I’m interested in that, especially if there’s a lot of talking, puts me to sleep. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Prose before hoes

Title: Tatakau Shisho: The Book of Bantorra (Fighting Librarians)
Episodes: 26
Air Date: October 2, 2009
Producers: David Production

Summary:  In a world where “Books” are the crystallized forms of the dead, Tonisu has his memory erased and a bomb implanted in his chest. Books are stored in the Bantorra Library where anyone who reads a book can learn their past. Bantorra Library is maintained by Armed Librarians who wield psychic powers and their enemy is a religious society known as Sindeki Kyoudan. Tonisu is ordered to kill the most powerful armed librarian Hamyuttsu Meseta.  However, he falls in love and is caught up in the ongoing battle of the library.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I really like the character art, and how much less believable than Toshokan Sensou could this really be?  Unfortunately, the trailer looked generic as hell, and I get the feeling that the battle choreography will be a series of flashing lights followed by one fighter falling to the ground.  I do, however, like where the latest in librarian fashion trends are heading. (Will Watch | Might blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Having fun isn’t hard WHEN YOU’VE GOT A LIBRARY CARD!!! Wow, glad that’s out of my system! Anyways, the trailer did seem a bit bland, but I like the guy with the hat. Definitely like the hat! Yup… that’s pretty much it. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: The art from the website and the trailer look pretty spectacular, and the character designs are as detailed as hell. Whether or not this will continue throughout the show remains to be seen. Looks like there’s quite a richly detailed fantasy world, and as always if that’s done well I’m game. I just hope it isn’t really hokey. (Will Watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Darker than Darker than Black

Title: Darker than Black 2
Episodes: 12
Air Date: October 8, 2009
Producers: Bones

Summary: In the sequel, Hei and Yin are now on the run after betraying the Syndicate in the previous season. After leaving Japan, Hei encounters Suou Pavlichenko, a 13 year old Eurasian girl who becomes embroiled in the war and politics of the various factions and Contractors vying for power. Meanwhile, Hell’s Gate remains standing in Tokyo, after Hei’s efforts to stop the Saturn Ring anti-Gate particle weapon from activating.

Although Contractors are safe from the danger of having their existences erased, this does not prevent new and old Contractors from abusing their powers. As Misaki Kirihara and her team in the Public Security Bureau deal with the increasing Contractor cases, she also has to keep the Syndicate at bay, who has major positions in the Japanese police and intelligence bureaus around the world. The storyline setting primarily takes place in both Japan and Russia.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: What to say about this sequel… well unfortunately I haven’t watched the first series, and this usually dooms a sequel for me.  However, I’ve heard good things about this show and I’ve hoarded all the episodes to watch in the hospital while my wife is giving birth (conveniently before the start of the Fall season).  (Will Watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: I was very fond of the first season, especially the character designs. I will admit that I completely forgot what happened during the first season, but I’m sure I’ll remember as I watch this one. Since Kabitzin will do White Album 2, and Epi will continue FMA2, it would only make sense that I pick up a sequel as well, no? Plus, all the big-wig Team Blogs will definitely blog this, and we at the Sea Slugs Empire cannot let our fanbase down! True-er Than Tears/Darker Than Black all the way! (Will watch | Will blog)

Epi’s Reaction: I quite liked the first season, even if Amber was a CC clone and Pizza Hut ruled the day. I mean sure, there wasn’t much in the character development segment, and there was literally no ending to the show, but it was FUN dammit. I’m excited that there is going to be a second season because I did not expect this at all. Hopefully they will make a real ending to this show this time around and answer some questions about the contractors and so on. (Will Watch | Might blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Your tax dollars at work

Title: A Certain Scientific Railgun
Episodes:
Air Date: October 2, 2009
Producers: J.C. Staff

Summary: Academy City. 2.3 million inhabitants. 80% of the students are active in the ‘Brain Development Program’ and out of those only 7 are Level 5s.  Meet the civilian protagonist Mikoto and her friend Kuroko, maintainers of peace and order in the University district. Kuroko is a member of ‘Judgment’.  A Certain Scientific Railgun is based on to A Certain Scientific Index, but this side story follows Mikoto.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: The original series got pretty boring, but I remember while reading the manga (which I read quite a bit of) that I found the spin-off to be rather entertaining.  I guess it helps that Mikoto is so much more interesting than Index, and of course this show promises plenty of yuri fanservice. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Never seen the first season, so this one will probably be a pass. The characters do seem pretty cute (or cute pretty?…*BOO*) Anyways, if this has absolutely nothing to do with the first season, I guess I can catch a couple of episodes. (Might watch | Might blog)

Epi’s Reaction: The girl in the far right looks like Isurugi Noe! I watched the first bunch of episodes of Index and then I got pretty bored of it. Don’t know what to say about this show other than if it has more of Mikoto I’m happy. When I saw the first episode of Index I thought she’d be a main character but up until I stopped the show she was rarely ever seen! Perhaps I’ll finish it someday… (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Isn't that actually a hornet/wasp on his hat?

Title: Tegami Bachi (Letter Bee)
Episodes: 13
Air Date: October 3, 2009
Producers: Studio Pierrot

Summary: Gauche is a governmental employee, given the task to deliver any letter to it’s destination. Meeting a young boy who is the letter to be delivered, Gauche makes friends with Lag and inspires him to take up the job. Five years later, Lag Seeing finally realizes his dream of becoming a Letter Bee, a courier who delivers mail throughout Amber Ground.  However, the one who inspired Lag has gone missing and only there does the mystery start.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Personally, my dream is to become a Spelling Bee or an Apple Bee, but to each his own.  I can’t help thinking that sending your letter with a courier named “Lag” would be almost as bad as buying an FPS game named “Lag,” but now I’m just being mean.  I usually like journey anime series, but the last few I’ve watched have had subpar endings.  This letter be good, or I won’t watch it. (Might watch | Might blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Oh boy, I hope they deliver the liver in BIG PACKAGES, cause if it fits, it ships! *crickets-crickets* I should watch the OVA/special to get the gist of it, but so far it doesn’t interest me at all. That guy reminds me of those .HACK// characters, just sayin’. (also, that’s a pretty weird rat-hat she got there…) (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Miyuki Sawashiro, Jun Fukuyama, Ami Koshimizu and Nana Mizuki? Looks like this show has a pretty awesome cast. It sounds really stupid though but hey you never know. Hard to say at this point. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

In French they call this "Ménage à trois du royaume" since they use the metric system

Title: Sangoku Engi (Romance of the Three Kingdoms)
Episodes: 52
Air Date: October 2009
Producers: Beijing Glorious Animation, Future Planet

Summary: Sengoku Engi is a 52-episode adaptation of the classic Chinese novel, depicting the tumultuous warring period of second-century China and the political intrigue between the different factions.  It is a joint partnership between Chinese and Japanese animation companies.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I can never think of anything good to say about these straight-up Romance of the Three Kingdoms adaptations.  They’re officially banned from future preview lists. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: I’ll assume that the story is good since it’s been adapted so many times, but I’m still not interested. Also, 52 is a big number. Almost as big as 159! (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: This must be the 23,473th adaption of the Romance of the Three Kingdoms. I’ll watch the John Woo version instead. I’ll take this time to comment though that for some reason anime with English dubs sound horrible, but anime with Chinese dubs seem to work for some reason. I don’t know why. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Sauron will not have forgotten the sword of Elendil. The blade that was broken shall return to Minas Tirith.

Title: The Sacred Blacksmith
Episodes: 12
Air Date: October 3, 2009
Producers: Manglobe

Summary: Once upon a time, there was a tragic war, in which the power of the devils was involved. After the war, the devils’ power was banned and the world was restored to peace. Cecily Campbell is a knight, who has been looking for a blacksmith to repair her old sword given by her father. One day, she saw a man fighting with a ruffian who used the tabooed devil’s power. The man defeated him with one blow of his weirdly shaped sword. The man turned out to be a blacksmith called Luke. The fateful encounter was the beginning of the adventure.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: The art looks nice and Manglobe does nice stuff, but the trailer was so terribly generic that it really turned me off this series.  The plot reminds me of Lord of the Rings combined with Pirates of the Caribbean, but in a bad way. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Hmm, I found absolutely nothing wrong with the trailer! If you’re gonna be generic, at least do it good, right? So I’m willing to give this show a chance. I’m not a big fan of breast armor though. It doesn’t jiggle. (Might watch | Might blog)

Epi’s Reaction: I’m with Kabitzin on this one. While the art looks kind of nice, the trailer looks super generic to me. The story sounds even more generic. I’ll probably see the first episode and decide from there, but it’s not promising! BTW Aria’s outfit reminds me of Naru from the Love Hina Spring Special. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Time for some guild drama

Title: Fairy Tail
Episodes:
Air Date: October 6, 2009
Producers: A-1 Pictures, Satelight

Summary: Lucy is a 17-year-old girl, who wants to be a full-fledged mage. One day when visiting Harujion Town, she meets Natsu, a young man who gets sick easily by any type of transportation. But Natsu isnt just any ordinary kid, he’s a member of one of the world’s most (in)famous mage guilds: Fairy Tail.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I read this manga series regularly, so I don’t have that much interest in covering the series.  Depending on the pace and animation quality, I may tune in for the occasional battle, but I don’t think that Fairy Tail really offers anything that you couldn’t find in another shounen series.  Fairy Tail looks and feels like One Piece (since Hiro Mashima and Eiichiro Oda were both influenced heavily by Akira Toriyama), so if you like one you will probably like the other.  The execution and art should be pleasing, if the director sticks to the manga and has a decent budget.  (Might watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Since I don’t follow Fairy Tail or One Piece, I’ll try not to make too many judgments, but seriously, how can you not make any connections between the two? Those characters look exactly like Luffy and Nami (just sexier)! Perhaps they have different personalities, but still. Either way, I did follow One Piece (manga) for awhile, and it was pretty good. If this show is exactly like One Piece, then I’m probably better off continuing One Piece. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Even if Aya Hirano and Rie Kugimiya are in this show I don’t really think I’ll watch it. Not really into Shounen shows at all. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Kobato is obviously a fan of Twitter and blue Peeps

Title: Kobato.
Episodes: 24
Air Date: October 6, 2009
Producers: Madhouse Studios

Summary: Kobato is a sweet and perky girl, but also extremely naive about the world around her. She has a “mission”, which is to fill a mysterious bottle of hers with the suffering from people’s hearts so her wish to go a certain place that she desires to go can be granted. However, she must not fall in love with a particular boy she works with and whose heart she must heal.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Now we’re even adding periods to anime titles?  And something seems a little off about that dog plushie.  Anyway, I usually like CLAMP stuff, but sometimes their series tend to drag a little.  This sounds a little like CLAMP does True Tears, but I can see this being a really heartwarming series, and Madhouse usually does good work.  If “sweet and perky” really means “sweet and crazy” I will be sure to root against Kobato! (Will Watch | Might blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: I’ve been wanting to read the manga for a long time, but it was usually never translated and/or I lost interest. I like the hat, definitely like the hat! (Will Watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Madhouse and CLAMP are always good, although Kobato’s limbs are not nearly long enough, so I’m not sure what to make of it all. Sounds like the opposite of Hell Girl. I’ll watch this if it isn’t TOO sweet and moe~~~ (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Ok, Ok, I promise to copy your crappy DS game and distribute it to as many people as possible, so please don't kill me!

Title: Kimi ni Todoke (Reaching You)
Episodes:
Air Date: October 6, 2009
Producers: Production I.G.

Summary: This story is centered around a girl named Kuronuma Sawako who is nicknamed Sadako (ghost girl from “The Ring”) by her classmates because of her scary face and demeanor. She greatly admires Kazehaya-kun from afar, he is “100% refreshing” and is able to draw in people with his personality. Unlike her facial expressions she yearns to make friends and live as a normal student. Gradually she starts affects those around her, including Kazehaya-kun…

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Noooooooooooo!!!  I’ve heard word that this manga is great, but I don’t care.  The Ring scared the crap out of me, and there is absolutely no way I will sit through an anime series where the heroine’s main gimmick is looking like Sadako.  It’s even worse that they named it “Reaching You.”  Mark my words, this will be a 3-part series where part two will be “Haunting You,” and the final part of the trilogy will be “Killing You.”  I bet if you play the DS game, Sawako and Sadako both jump out of the dual screens and kill you!  (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Wow, the premise sounds like my life story! Alright, finally someone I can relate to! She does look cute in that somewhat-creepy-way, and I love the bow, which is always a plus! Also:

She greatly admires Kazehaya-kun from afar

STALKERS UNITE!!! (Will watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Ringu? Nanako Matsushima = awesome. Scary TV girl? Not so much. Still Production I.G. hasn’t let me down for a long time, so I’ll be watching this for sure. Coupled with my love for high school romance animes this will be a sure winner in my books! (Will watch | Will blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

You can't spell "yuri anime" without "yu" and "me"

Title: Sasameki Koto
Episodes: 12
Air Date: October 7, 2009
Producers: AIC

Summary: Murasame Sumika is popular in the high school for her excellence in the marks and sports. However, she has a secret: she is in love with her classmate Kazama Ushio. Sumika hears that Ushio is like her, “a girl who likes girls,” but Sumika’s feelings have yet to be reciprocated.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: As much as I like to joke about yuri undertones, I usually find full-on yuri to be boring as the main attraction.  Maybe if there was more competition and forces keeping their forbidden love apart it’d be more interesting, but I don’t see any of that happening in this show.  (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: AIC better turn up those AC’s cause it’s gonna get HAWT IN HERE so take off all your clothes! *smacks himself* What? Did I say hawt? Oh no, I must have been drinking again: This show is gonna suck, but probably not fish sticks. Definitely not fish sticks! Perhaps it might smell like fish though *BA DUM PSH*… okay I’ll stop. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Unlike Kabitzin, I actually am quite fond of Yuri. I’m still waiting for a worthy yuri successor to Strawberry Panic so I end up watching all these yuri shows in search for just that one. I’ll probably keep watching this show until it starts to suck (I’m thinking around first commercial break or so). Oneeeeee-sama!!!~~~~!!!!! \(^o^)/ (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Soap, falling from the sky

Title: Winter Sonata
Episodes: 26
Air Date: October 17, 2009
Producers: G&G, JM Animation

Summary: Kang Joon-Sang, a high school boy, has his life tied to that of his classmate, Jung Yu-Jin.  The drama follows the two as tragedy befalls them and those around them in the years between high school and young adulthood.  This series is based on the Korean drama television series about the love between two childhood friends and was a huge hit in Japan.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: While I don’t like the character designs or the realistic art style, the trailer showcased some really top notch production values.  At times I can really get into soapy doramas, but it depends on my mood.  I might have to look into the source to see if this is worth the heartbreak that is sure to ensue.  (Might watch | Might blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: As the Bizzaro version of Kabitzin, I actually like the sort-of realistic art style, especially when they have upper-lips! I’ve been hearing constant fanboying over this one, so I might as well give it a look. Who doesn’t like a good soap and true tears water, right? (Will watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: So after hearing so much about Winter Sonata, I finally decided to download it and watch it. I mean it was the #1 show all across the world apparently, even in the Middle East. I must say that those 70 minute episodes are pretty long though and I only got to episode 4 before I gave up so I have no idea how this show ends. I was happily surprised to learn though that modern South Korea really does have more technology than the first few episodes which were apparently set in the past. I might end up watching this just to bypass watching the TV show. Looks like they have the live-action actors reprising their roles as the animated characters. It also looks like the anime is a pretty decent adaptation of the TV show as the camera angles even look similar. I dunno how good this will be though because the real Choi Ji Woo is much better looking than her anime version. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

I like chicken, I like liver, Meow Mix Meow Mix please deliver!

Title: Nyan Koi!
Episodes: 12
Air Date: October 1, 2009
Producers: AIC

Summary: Junpei Kosaka is a second-year high school student who despises cats and has an allergy to them. It just so happens that his high school crush is Kaede Mizuno, a girl who adores cats. One day, while walking home from school, Junpei kicks an empty can and unfortunately beans the local neko-jizo-sama (guardian deity of cats). He finds he can now understand what cats are saying, including his family’s own ill-tempered cat, Nyamusasu. However, if he does not grant 100 wishes from cats, he will turn into a cat himself.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I’ve always wanted to know what my cats would say to me if they could speak English.  This feels like the feline remix of What Women Want, but the art looks decent and I would probably watch most anime series focused on cats.  Also, 100 wishes might sound like a lot, but I bet it wouldn’t take that long to grant my cats 100 wishes. (Might watch | Might blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: What? This is almost like 100 Deeds for Eddie McDowd, but with cats! Interesting! That girl also has some nice Asian beavers K-ON! teeth! The show looks fun, but doing 100 wishes will most likely mean there will be more than 26 episodes (See, I’m good with math!). If they put some Cats in those Hats, I’m sold! (Might watch | Might blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Even if THE MAJOR is going to be a cat, I don’t know if I’m going to watch this. Not really much of a cat person (don’t tell the gf!). Will watch one episode to see THE MAJOR. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

I couldn't find any new pictures so I made one

Title: Natsu no Arashi! 2
Episodes: 13
Air Date: October 4, 2009
Producers: SHAFT

Summary: It centers on a boy named Hajime Yasaka who meets an older high school girl named Sayoko “Arashi” Arashiyama in an old town coffee shop. “Arashi” happens to have a secret that Hajime learns one fateful summer vacation.  Arashi makes a bond with Hajime, enabling them to travel back through time, sometimes to rescue those who died in WWII.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Oh jeez, the first season was about time travel?  I’m still so bitter about School Rumble dragging that I absolutely refuse to watch this show.  Plus, the character designs are ugly. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Oh no, not this show again! I did have fun blogging it over at Sufoki, but I received absolutely no comments! It is an okay-show, but I’ll have to finish the first season to go to the next. Also, unlike Kabitzin, I liked the character designs. I was also a big fan of the OP song. It was refreshingly funky-desu! (Will watch eventually | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Saw the first episode of the first season and it… sucked. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Waiting for Yuki to betray the human race and fly off to hang out with the Vajra

Title: White Album 2
Episodes: 13
Air Date: October 2, 2009
Producers: Seven Arcs

Summary: Touya Fuji, a college student, is dating a rising idol singer named Yuki Morikawa.  There are numerous challenges to the couple’s relationship from the other people at Fuji’s college, Morikawa’s work, and elsewhere.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I really enjoyed White Album’s first season, in spite of some of the production dips and the occasionally slow pace.  I am excited to see how Touya will outdo himself as one of the worst boyfriends in anime history.  Kyon-kun, denwa! (Will watch | Will blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: There are so many fond memories I have with White Album that it would be impossible for me to miss this. I definitely liked the whole anime-blogger-atmosphere that the show brought to the community, and it was fun bashing the last episode (btw, they touched-up Yuki’s badly animated performance in the DVD/Blu-Ray… *sniff* WHY?!?!) I also recall this being my first introduction to Nana Mizuki, or rather, the first time being completely fanboy over her! Lets hope for some more Yayoi-Upper-Lip stench! (Will watch | Want to blog but can’t Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Well looks like Kabitzin’s got dibs on this one so I won’t be blogging it, but I will for sure be watching! I need my weekly dose of being frustrated by Touya and need more makout sessions with the ice queen Yayoi herself. PLEASE! (Will watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Hey, what's that 4eyes doing in the poster?

Title: 11eyes
Episodes: 12
Air Date: October 1, 2009
Producers: Dogakobo

Summary: Five years ago, Satsuki Kakeru lost his sister by suicide and has been living a dull life ever since then. One day, he is transported into a bizarre world “Red Night” along with his friend Minase Yuka. In order to survive and escape from Red Night, he fights against Dark Spirits (Ralva) and six Black Nights of this alternate world.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: My gut reaction is, “Bleh, eroge Rental Magica,” but hopefully the main character’s sister didn’t commit suicide after sitting through 11eyes.  This show seems super generic, but if the production values are decent maybe I will give the show a chance.  I’ve sat through both good and bad eroge adaptations, so what’s one more? (Might watch | Might blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: I’ve counted, and if my math is correct, there are more than 11 eyes in that poster, even if you don’t count the closed eyes or 4-eyes! Not much to say on a show that I will most likely never watch. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Alternate worlds are best experienced by high school female heroines. I dunno what to think of a male character escaping to an alternate world. They are also best done if based on a novel not an EROGE. P.S. TAMAHOME!!! (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

After the long wait, we're going to piss the fans off by airing the same episode 8 times

Title: Inuyasha: Kanketsu-hen
Episodes: Over 9,000 26
Air Date: October 3, 2009
Producers: Sunrise

Summary: Higurashi Kagome is pulled down a well to Feudal Japan, and learns a powerful jewel is inside her.  She awakens the dog-demon Inuyasha and works together with him to find the shards fo the shattered jewel.  The anime will cover the final 21 volumes of the manga.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I’ve only ever seen this show with English dubs.  That’s how old Inu Yasha is.  This is how I picture Zero no Tsukaima season 32 going.  (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: I was a big Inuyasha fan during the Cartoon Network/Adult Swim run, so seeing this makes me squee in joy! IRON-REAVER SOUL STEALER!!! WIND TUNNEL!!! BOOMERANG!!! WIND SCAR!!! BACK-LASH WAVE!!! INU-YASHAaAaAaAAAAAA!!! KAGOMEEEeeeEeeEeeEee!!! (Will watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: I got through the first 4 episodes of Inuyasha, it looked good. But then there were 150 more to go or something. So I guess I won’t be watching this. I do miss Satsuki Yukino though, sad she doesn’t really do many shows anymore. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

I make my ghost girlfriend take off her ghost shoes before getting in my mech

Title: Asura Cryin’ 2
Episodes: 13
Air Date: October 1, 2009
Producers: Seven Arcs

Summary: Tomoharu is a normal high school student… except for he’s not alone. Haunted by the ghost of his dead childhood best friend, he moves into a new home in time for the new school year.  That becomes a little more difficult than anticipated when his house becomes overrun with various female occult users. Even worse than that he has been pulled into a fight to protect a trunk within the house that others want to steal.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I never got around to watching this show, and I probably won’t marathon to catch up.  There certainly are a lot of unrelated cliches being blended into this series, but it’s good to see that the childhood friend romance buff does not wear off upon death.  (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Was there supposed to be a pun in the title, cause I always read it as “A-sure-a Cryin’” as in “Those guys are-sure-a-Cryin’ yo!” Anyways, never saw the first one, and not interested in the second. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Ghost girlfriend? High school hijinks? Mecha? Sign me up!! That was my first reaction when I heard about this show last season and I didn’t regret it. Asura Cryin’ was a fun show all around even if it wasn’t very deep. Season 1 ended on a cliffhanger and I’m definitely looking forward to more. (Will watch | Might blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Crouching Tiger, Hidden Phallis

Title: Kampfer
Episodes: 12
Air Date: October 1, 2009
Producers: Nomad

Summary: Bishoujo battle & school love comedy. Senou Natsuru is a normal high school boy. One day he wakes up to find himself turned into a girl. A stuffed tiger “Harakiri Tora” gains a life and tells him to fight as a female psychic fighter “Kampfer”. Having no idea about what’s going on, Natsuru is involved in the battles against other Kampfers.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Enough of traps going to high school to look for love and/or fulfill a grandparent’s last wishes!  It’s time to party like it’s 1987 and bring back fighting traps (with a side of love).  Obviously the premise sounds a little stupid, but I might give this show an episode or two to reel me in.  I get the feeling, however, that the art will be crappy and if that’s the case I probably won’t stay long.  However, I did check out the manga per Mentar’s suggestion and it ended up being pretty entertaining.  (Will watch | Might blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: /facepalm! What is this, the 10th time we have a trap attending what is most likely going to be an all-girl-school? Oh but wait, they are “psychic fighters”, and they have to battle each other for no apparent reason other than to be the best, and they have big breasts (which will be the only thing animated), and somewhere along the way we’ll have the evil corporation and whatnot. Yea, please stop watching this crap so they can finally stop making it. (to each his own of course) (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Marina Inoue, Nana Mizuki, Yui Horie, Yukari Tamura, Mamiko Noto and Megumi Nakajima in the same anime? Guy turning into a girl? Possible yuri situations in a high school setting? How would I not watch this show? (Will watch | Might blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Found this on the back of my milk carton

Title: Sora no Otoshimono (Heaven’s Lost Property)
Episodes: 13
Air Date: October 4, 2009
Producers: AIC A.S.T.A.

Summary: Sakurai Tomoki has been having the same strange dream since he was a child and would wake up in tears.  He dreams of a strange girl asking for his help, but when he wakes up he can’t remember her face.  Sugita, an upperclassmen as his school, believes the dream to be of the new continent. Later that night while waiting under the cherry trees for his Sugita and Sohara, his childhood friend, an angel named Ikaros comes flying down and complicates his life of pacifism.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: It really doesn’t get more generic than heavenly ladies falling from the sky and having some kind of connection to your past/dreams/destiny.  The trailer reinforced this feeling, although it added an extra layer of super-annoying static in the dreams.  Other than that, expect lots of pantsu, chains between boobs, jiggling, and loser lead male shenanigans.  (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: I noticed that the trailer had a lot of chibi-ness in some scenes, which would totally defeat the purpose of big boobs (unless the chibi versions have big boobs as well). The main character’s voice was a bit annoying too, so I probably won’t handle hearing it for 12+ episodes. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: The trailer looks decently nice, but then again the girls all have impossibly big boobs. Unless this show has the fun charisma of Princess Lover, I can’t see myself watching it. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

You call it theft, I call it parody

Title: Seitokai no Ichizon (It’s Student Council’s Judgment)
Episodes: 13
Air Date: October 2, 2009
Producers: Studio DEEN

Summary: The members of the student council of Hekiyou Gakuen are chosen by a popularity vote. As a result, all the members are cute girls except for Sugizaki Ken, who studied hard to enter the council. Ken is the only male allowed to enter the “sacred sanctuary” of the council’s meeting room. The council president records the minutes of the meetings, which consist of daily conversations about the students.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I thought this was supposed to show last season… There aren’t many details about this series, but what I’ve read sounds pretty terrible. I believe this is based off of a series of light novels where the characters chat and parody other anime series. It’s like a light novel version of those horrible mash-and-parody movies that always come out in the US.  (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: I guess this could be good, but I’ll let others check it out for me. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Well I’ve seen S.A., Gokujo Seitokai, Manabi Straight!, and so many others so I guess if this is a show about the student council I should watch it. That said if what Kabitzin says is true, this could really suck. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Every queen needs a (ceramic) throne

Title: Queen’s Blade 2
Episodes: 12
Air Date: September 24, 2009
Producers: ARMS

Summary: A competition to decide the next Queen. The strongest warrior will rule the country and expand it. The contestants need to be older than 12. They need not be human, intelligent or even of that country. The rules for the tournament: murder is allowed. Any weapon can be chosen.

This is based on a series of visual combat books published by Hobby Japan which based on the licensed works from Lost Worlds. First published in 2005, it features only female characters.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Wow, I’m impressed they got another season, but I’m not surprised.  You’ll find no hating here; there is a certain niche for (relatively) high budget H-series with lots of peeing. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Oh no, not the breast-armor again! To be honest, I actually like a lot of the character designs (who doesn’t?! :P), but I never got around to finishing the first season. I may catch up some day though. (Might watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: LOL they made a sequel to this? If the idea is NEXT queen, I guess this show won’t even benefit from the AYAKO DOCTRINE. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Red Hair!

Title: Shin Koihime†Musou
Episodes: 12
Air Date: October 5, 2009
Producers: Dogakobo

Summary: The game is spinoff from the Koihime†Musou: Doki—Otome Darake no Sangokushi Engi game, which has already been adapted into a television anime series and a video anime. The franchise re-imagines the classic Chinese historical novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms (Sangokushi) as a “moe (fiery), moe (preciously cute) action love comedy” with an almost all-female cast. The Shin Koihime†Musou game was just released in Japan on December 26.

The same Romance of the Three Kingdoms novel also inspired KOEI’s game franchise of the same name, KOEI’s Dynasty Warriors (Shin Sangoku Musouō) spinoffs, and dozens of anime and manga of varying historical accuracy.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: It’s pretty amazing what you can twist Romance of the Three Kingdoms into.  I only watched 1 episode of the first season and I don’t really enjoy RotTK anime all that much anyway.  I do like recommending this series to friends of mine who are RotTK fans/purists, however, just to see their reaction after the first episode. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Wow, so this is also based on Romance of the Three Kingdoms? Guess RotTK is pretty big… bigger than those D’s on those B%tches yo! I’ll take the manly-GAR-anime version to this one. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: LOL? (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

Normally only ugly dumbasses like anime and manga

Title: Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu: Purezza
Episodes: 12
Air Date: October 5, 2009
Producers: Diomedea

Summary: In the story, Yuuto Ayase is an ordinary boy in an private high school with the usual cliques. Haruka, the school’s most unattainable girl, is so idolized in the school for both her beauty and smarts that her classmates nickname her Nuit Étoile (The Silver Star of the Night) and Lumière du Clavier (The Shining Princess on the Piano). However, in the school’s library, Yuuto stumbles across her and her darkest secret — she is a diehard fan of anime, manga, and otaku culture.  This looks to be a sequel of Nogizaka Haruka no Himitsu.

Kabitzin’s Reaction: I had no interest in the first season, so needless to say I won’t be watching the sequel.  I don’t really like the art style that much either.  (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: wth is up with that caption?! Never even heard of the first season, so this one is a definite no-no. (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: Well I liked the first season even if it wasn’t that special. I mean it was a pretty generic show although Mamiko Noto really turned up the charm. (Will watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

I baked you some hontou ni jiBuns

Title: Yumeiro Patissiere
Episodes:
Air Date: October 4, 2009
Producers: Studio Peirrot

Summary: The story centers on a 14-year-old girl named Ichigo Amano who wants to be a pâtissière (female pastry chef), but she is stymied by her own clumsiness. One day, she enrolls in St. Mary Academy, a culinary school for sweets, and meets a “spirit of sweets.”

Kabitzin’s Reaction: Oh yeah, Shugo Chara patissiere edition!  As great as watching X eggs made into cakes would be, I am pretty sure this will be your standard shojou-with-chibi-spirit anime complete with a billion oji-samas and lots of sweets and friendships.  Props for having the green-haired guy hold a bunch of flours.  (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Jesus159159159′s Reaction: Mmm, she bettah bake me a cake as fast as she can! Mmm-hmmm! Err, I mean: Yum-Merry-Oh Pastries? That’s an interesting title. Btw, I like the hats! Definitely like the hats! (Won’t watch | Won’t blog)

Epi’s Reaction: So I was reading the author’s ANN profile and it says that the author’s favorites include – Kung Fu stars: Stephen Chow, Jackie Chan, and Jet Li.

Back to the show… If there are any BREAD REACTIONS then I’ll watch. Also the character designs remind me of Full Moon o Sagashite which is a definite plus. I’ll at least watch the first episode and then I’ll probably drop this show faster than Queen’s Blade (which I saw the first 2 minutes of).  (Might watch | Won’t blog)

[ MAL | ANN ]

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