Aura Battler Dunbine Robot Damashii Sirbine Review

The Majestic Silver Knight of  the Byston Well!

Space Pirate Captain Harlock

 The second Leiji Matsumoto's Space Opera i watched after Yamato, while not as epic as the latter, it still got its own merit. Space Pirate Captain Harlock no doubt is the pioneer swashbuckling space adventure as the series starring free spirited captain with crew of misfits as the casts. In the series the main character Captain Harlock embarks on a solo crusade against Femme Fatale Alien Race called Mazone to protect person he cherished on Earth. 

 For a series from 70s, Space Pirate Captain Harlock doesn't age quite well but it still did something right as well as having good Opening theme just like Yamato. Personally i can't really take things seriously with the series because some of the elements had over the top executions, For instance overly incompetent earth government and the protagonist literally wage a war against millions of Alien Army with a single ship manned by crew of Hobbits. Perhaps due to losing badly in world war 2 decades ago, Japanese had some obsession with one man army miracle or wonder weapon which is quite apparent in 70s Scifi anime. Nevertheless Captain Harlock served as a very good Stoic archetype and Queen Rafflesia herself is quite a beauty. I think there are good chemistry between the two and the Queen Rafflesia no doubt will be quite a beauty with a modern makeover. A reboot version of the series just like Yamato 2199 would have been a good idea though we will probably need to wait until the next Yamato series to be finished first.

Rewatching GaoGaiGar

 My journey with Yuusha series started with Gaogaigar 10 years ago. It was my gateway toward Super Robot series  and i remember fondly the King of Braves as a very good mecha series with its seemingly endless supply of Hotblood even though i thought the mecha design was rather weird at the time. Now things are coming in full circle as i am ending my pilgrimage of Yuusha series by revisiting this series once again in the full Glory of  Bluray version. As i have completed all previous 7 Yuusha series, i am able to appreciate things that i was taking for granted back then. For instance the monster of the week formula of GGG is quite refined actually, owing to the accumulated experience from its predecessors. As of now i have been marathoning up to 2/3rd of the show and gathering plenty of materials for a proper article that this show deserved. Gaogaigar Final will be probably a separate article because this penultimate title of the Yuusha series deserve much more fanfare.

Chogokin Pacman

 When it comes to collectibles, my area of interest tend to be very focused. But depending on circumstances i do make exceptions from time to time and it seems i found yet another item belong to this category. As a part of 40th anniversary of the Pacman series, Bandai released series of toys collectibles for the classic series including a Diecast Chogokin toy. The Chogokin Pacman will be scheduled for August 2021 release with 8000 yen price tag.

 The Diecast mecha version of Pacman is a big deal because the lineup is surprisingly good actually. Usually featuring Sanrio characters, Bandai's Chogokin will give you a taste of Soul of Chogokin in bite size with its sheer weight. The recent Chogokin Hello Kitty Gundam are quite good actually and this one shouldn't disappoint as long as the gimmick properly done. Personally i think Doraemon would be a good candidate for similar treatment.

Fate/Stay Night EXQ Rider Medusa Review

 The Bridle of Chivalry descends like a shooting star

Digimon Vital Bracelet

 Digivices is usually what comes in mind for Digimon Electronic Toys products and this years had been quite plentiful for those types. But Bandai came with yet another surprise and recently they unveiled a rather unexpected lifestyle product dubbed Digimon Vital Bracelet! From the first glance the product looks similar to Pokemon Go watch which is used in tandem with phone app and you can raise Digimons from this one!

 Digimon Vital Bracelet will be scheduled for March 2021 release with 3 color variants. The Normal variants come in White and Black color are sold for 5800 Yen while the special Yellow edition cost 6600 Yen and come with extra Dim Card. The starter Digimons are determined by USB stick like device named Dim Card which each Digimon Vital Bracelet comes with the new flagship digimon named Pulsemon for this lineup. But there are available separate variety of Dim Card which cost 1600 Yen for a pack of 2 which there are 2 available versions available on release. I used to have Digivice X Antibody series mid this year but sold it away since i can't really commit into it, but i think the Vital Bracelet could be of some use since i have been running quite regularly from December last year. As obvious, if the products is well received we could expect more digimon available for the Vital bracelet with 2nd and 3rd Gen Digimons be the likeliest candidates.

The available variant of Dim Cards that are sold separately

Adventure Bar Story

  One of my recently cleared backlog from 3DS and this one surprisingly a good time sink. Ages ago, I have tried Adventure Bar Story back on mobile phone but only fully committed with the game on my 3DS. Adventure Bar Story is basically a Classic JRPG with simple simulation mechanics thrown into the mix where you play as a restaurant owner climbing up to the top, gathering your own ingredients from Dungeon and Monsters. For a game that appear to come out from RPG Maker, Adventure Bar Story surprisingly able to offer vast amount of content despite its limitations and you will spend hours trying to complete your Recipe without using walkthrough.

 Adventure Bar Story may not be flashy, but it is decent enough to make me clock over 30 Hours of playing time. The old school vibe of this game really reminds me of  Summon Night game on GBA which had crafting as part of its mechanics. The progression in Adventure Bar Story is directly tied to the Restaurant Fame in which daily sales and contest ranks are essential. For the party members, Lidia and Elias are the best ones when it comes for resource farming due to their abilities. Lastly always bring a party member that can steal in Boss fight as some of the unique equipments including the endgame stuffs are only available through such means. For its intention, I think the 3DS copy is the definitive version of Adventure Bar Story since the developer probably refined the game a lot to make it a proper console JRPG. Personally i could see the game could have some sequel but at very least i can still settle with the spinoff roguelike Adventure Labyrinth story.

Arknights Nendoroid 1522 Eyjafjalla

 

 The last of the Big 3 Arknights Operator to get the Nendoroid treatment and this one looks promising! In Arknights together with Silverash and Exusiai, Eyjafjalla are the Top 3 6* operators being the best in her class, excelling in the role of cutting down swathes of armored opponents with her powerful skill. The Sheep Kouhai will be released for 5500 Yen with August 2021 release schedule. I think so far Eyjafjalla is the only Arknights Nendoroid that got the operator's spirit animal as part of the accessory

 Named after a volcanic mountain, Eyjafjalla is a Catastrophe Messenger joining Rhodes Island for her oripathy treatment. She is the best general purpose Single-targe Caster Operator in the game that possess powerful abilities that makes her capable to outclass AOE caster in their role. Her Skill 3 Volcano simply melts anything with low Arts resistance and not many enemies are capable to survive the full brunt of this skill making her one of the prime candidates for difficult missions such as contigency contract. Due to the top-tier position in her class, Amiya is often made the butt joke of being overshadowed by Eyjafjalla and ignored by doctor in favor of the adorable Sheep Kouhai.

 Eyjafjalla is definitely one of the better Arknights Nendoroid so far mirroring her popularity in the game. For the next Arknights Nendoroids, i think Magallan or Angelina had a good shot or even Texas should GSC consider to release a Nendoroid for 5* Operators.

Fate/Stay Night: Heaven's Feel III Spring Song

 The conclusion of Fate/Stay Night 3rd Route trilogy movie and Ufotable certainly gives a proper wrap up befitting for the legendary series! Heaven's feel might be the last of the FSN Route to get anime adaptation but it was a boon too because Ufotable could deliver some of the top tier animation quality that the series deserves. 

  Heaven's Feel had some of the best writing in FSN because delves into the background of the series settings, showcasing Kinoko Nasu's talent at worldbuilding which has been the main selling point of his works. In the VN, HF route has rather slow beginning but it has the best endgame part with intense action chock full of manliness. Therefore the third part of the Heaven's Feel Movie adaptation is the most crucial one and suffice to say Ufotable doesn't disappoint! While i can't say the movie to be perfect, at least Ufotable handled the important parts properly and that's what matters the most. Just like the VN, the MVP of the Heaven's Feel Movie are still Illya and Kirei which the respective Seiyuu performed their respective role really well. If it was not for the COVID pandemic, this movie would have received much of the fanfare it deserves.

 Personally Sakura is probably the least popular of all FSN Main Heroine because Saber and Rin just shine too brightly. But over the time i do appreciate her character and the length Shirou goes to in order to save her proves her merit. Each of the FSN Main heroines had their own merits and as for Sakura, she is Shirou's best partner if he wished to settle down for a peaceful tranquil life. Unless Japan's economy took a nosedive, it is just a matter of time before Fate route is given a remake since FSN need to wrap up with the Realta Nua ending and i will contribute my part as well. 

Sengoku Rance 1/8 Sill Plain Review

The lovestruck slave follows her master faithfully

Yami's 3rd year with Fate/Grand Order

 Third time is a charm and I managed to survive the Salt Purgatory yet again! 2020 has been a hectic year with the COVID Pandemic but it has been quite a bountiful year for my journey in Fate/Grand Order NA. By this year i have consolidated my gains with this Salt simulator and also reached some significant milestones at the same time.

Gundam Converge EX-30 RX-104FF Penelope Review

A little of Hathaway's Flash bite-sized treat!

Densetsu no Yuusha Da Garn

 Gaogaigar was my next destination after completing my Journey of Yuusha series with Mightgaine as I intend to savor the Culmination of the Yuusha series after accumulating experiences with its predecessors. But before I settled my business with King of Braves, i took short detour to Da Garn once again. Being an actual pivotal entry for Yuusha series, I decided to gather materials for to make a much deserved proper article for Da Garn matching my previous Yuusha series post.

Gundam Converge EX-34 Xi Gundam

 2020 has not been a good year for Hathaway's flash as the movie airing for this year is cancelled. However as the Movie airing resumed for May next year, so does the merchandise follow suit. Soon after EX-33 Neue Ziel, the 34th slot is allocated for Xi Gundam in order to catch up with Penelope. While no fixed release schedule yet, Converge EX Xi Gundam will be sold for 3500 Yen. Compared to Penelope, the Converge version of Xi rather lacks in bulk and if it doesn't come with many accessories, it will be one of the more lackluster entry for the lineup. Personally i would prever to see Ensemble version of Xi which probably could accomplish more than the the static posed Converge series. Considering the momentum for Hathaway Flash is picking up again, i should put the review for Converge Penelope soon

Alter 1/7 Saber Alter Dress version

  No doubt the most definitive version of Salter PVC Figure up until now and so far none has beaten Alter for the Ice Queen. Last time the Dress version of Saber Alter was up for preorder in 2018 and now Alter opened a rerun which is probably the 3rd time since there are still strong demand for this particular version of Salter. For this time, Saber Alter 3rd Ascension Dress version will be scheduled for November 2021 release with 15800 Yen Price tag. Up until now Alter's Salter Dress figure brings out the most feminine charm of the usually expressionless Ice Queen with good options of variety. When i handled preorder for this item for one of my customer last year, i regretted that i sought the cheaper option which was Ichiban Kuji which certainly doesn't stand up with Alter's. 

  The 3rd ascension version of Saber Alter PVC figure definitely complement well with Jalter Dress figure made by Max Factory last year, who knows this might be my first collection from Alter. In any case there is a chance for Figma for Salter 3rd ascension too since her popularity eclipsed the vanilla version when it comes to merchandise.

Fate/Grand Order Nendoroid 1491 Okita Souji

 October has been a good month for Saber Okita after being the butt joke of the game throughout this year. From getting her long needed Strengthening and new Costume, now Goodsmile is announcing her Nendoroid. Scheduled for June 2021, Nendoroid Okita Souji is coming in two editions, regular and DX with 4800 and 5800 Yen price respectively. For additional 1000 Yen, Nendoroid Okita Souji comes with her Shinsengumi Haori and her iconic coughing and daishori pose. I think Nendoroid Shinguji Sakura's kimono would work well for her 1st Ascension which makes me considering getting her.IIRC FGO version of Okita Souji is the first limited SSR Saber servant in the game and her debut proves to be popular as it was the first salt trap for many players at the time before Scathach. For some reason Okita is often paired with Nobunaga in FGO as pair of joke characters and occasionally with Musashi as well. I wonder if the Figma version will come with Haori as well though i am quite aware the limitation that figma possess to pull it off.

Yuusha Tokkyu Mightgaine

 The last of the 8 Yuusha series to be cleared in order to finish my Journey with Yuusha series and no doubt Mightgaine is the most Obari of all Yuusha series. I have watched the Mightgaine partially back then, but It took me 3 years after Dagwon just to finish watching this series since it was not fully subbed. Nevertheless i was determined to finish the business after SRW V which took me a while but no doubt i settled the Debt.

Jin

  Some manga that i read a long time ago whiic was similar to Tezuka Hidamari no Ki as it covers the Bakumatsu period through a perspective of a Doctor. It was not until recently that i got to see the conclusion of the series which spanned over 20 volumes. In Jin, A Japanese Surgeon in modern Japan found himself travelled back in time to the Turbulent Bakumatsu Period where reigning Tokugawa shogunate saw itself in steady decline. With his expertise in medicine, the surgeon tried to save many people but his noble intent saw many oppositions from conflicting interests, Nevertheless his deed makes him encounter many famous figures in his period from Geishas to future leaders of modern Japan with Sakamoto Ryoma served as significant role in this one. The manga had a very strong beginning but had some awkward moments nearing the conclusion probably due to clash in ideas. In any case Jin is a good manga to look at after finishing Hidamari no Ki

Yuusha Retsuden Collection Vol 1

  Yuusha series collectibles are quite a rarity nowadays but Bandai attempted another affordable entry with their Candy Toys lineup. Dubbed as Yuusha Retsuden collection, this new lineup will feature main protagonist mecha from all 8 Yuusha series divided into two volumes for the initial release! The first volume will be scheduled for February 2021 release sold at 3600 Yen consist of the 4 main protagonist Mecha from the first half of Yuusha series; Exkaiser, Fighbird, Da Garn and Mightgaine! 

 This new lineup allow mecha collectors to obtain Yuusha series collectibles for affordable price. While i don't really mind the 900 Yen Price tag, personally i think Ensemble Frame could work better for the Yuusha series. Considering that Robot Concerto series which shared the same frame system with Ensemble had something that had similar characteristics with Yuusha series Mecha. But i guess collector still able to compromise with moveable arms at least.

 I think Bandai definitely gauging interest with the initial roster before deciding possible continuations, If the lineup should prove popular enough, we could see the Supporting Character Yuusha make appearance as well. I think at very least there will be demand for the more popular Supporter Yuushas like Super Build Tiger or Captain Shark.

Gundam Converge EX-33 Alpha Azieru

 I might not be collecting Converge anymore but their EX series are always worth looking at as it one of the few means for Bandai to release affordable collectible for Gundam series Mobile Armors. After Neue Ziel II, the next Converge Mobile Armor is the behemoth from Char's Counter Attack, Alpha Azieru! Scheduled for February 2021 release, Converge-EX Alpha Azieru will be sold for 4000 Yen. As usual separate optional parts are available for purchase for Alpha Azieru which include damaged Re-Gz, Funnel effect parts and extended arms. Alpha Azieru is quite forgettable MA for me because the pilot is literally the worst character in CCA though it was quite useful secret unit back in Alpha 3. But Converge Alpha Azieru would actually complement quite well with my Ensemble collection and having 3 Converge Mobile Armors wouldn't be a bad idea either. IIRC there was a Forte version of Alpha Azieru which cost slightly more expensive than the current Converge so i am curious which one stands taller in the end.

Megabox AMTS-12 Landbreaker Review

First step into the Megabox series!

52Toys Megabox AMTS MB-13 Deep One

  52 Toys have been quite active in showcasing their Beastbox and Megabox new products early this month and we are getting another Heavy-Duty Mega Box this time. After Landbreaker, 52Toys are ready to reveal their second Two Combiner Megabox design which is nautical themed called Deep-One. I think the product will be released soon with 50 USD Price Tag like the Landbreaker and should be available in few months.

 Having fiddled around with my copy of Landbreaker recently, Deep One should be a worthy purchase because the Landbreaker has proved its value as a solid Collector Toy with its Robust framework and playability. Megabox Deepone no doubt will complement well with Aquatic themed beastbox which 52Toys already had some and the vehicle mode is quite cool too. At this rate i think 52Toys will definitely attempt a Sky variant of the Two Combiner Megabox eventually and they could add more flyer type beastbox while at it.

Arknights Chess Piece series Vol 3

 The continuation of the Arknights Deformed Figure series featuring Reunion Elite Operators this time! This time the Deformed figure set features Patriot, W and Frostnova as the roster which among them only one is the recruitable operator. Arknights Chess Piece Vol 3 figure set are scheduled for January 2021 release with 8500 Yen Price tag and unlike the previous iteration, this one appears only to be sold as a set.

 Perhaps due to handover of Distributor from Emon Toys to Apex Toys, the designation name become rather inconsistent as there were no 2nd Volume unless the previous individual figure set count as one. Probably this has to do with Chinese manufacturers rushing too fast on capitalizing the Arknights franchise which could be detrimental for the series future.

As for the Arknights game itself, it is a wonder how the series lose its momentum quite fast after 9 months. The game was quite something during its global debut garnering so much hype similar to the recent Genshin Impact. However Hypergryph and Yostar didn't pay too much attention after the game launch as the contents of the game are quite stale at this point with only handful events worth a damn. I will keep investing for Arknigts until the 1st anniversary but if it is not getting any better by that time, i might as well abandon the ship.

Fate/Grand Order Pop Up Parade Saber Lily Review

 The Princess Knight sets upon her first journey!

Yoroiden Samurai Trooper Sentinel Kourin no Seiji

 Yoroiden Samurai Trooper series got some toy revival by Sentinel starting from last year and now they are ready to release the second entry for the lineup. As expected Seiji Date is the one who made it next after Ryou considering his Nodachi is probably the coolest weapon from the five Yoroiden. Sentinel's Kourin no Seiji is scheduled for June 2021 release schedule with 15000 Yen Price Tag. At a glance, it appears that Sentinel version of Yoroiden barely include Diecast parts, a stark contrast to Bandai's Armor Plus which make it difficult to justify the pricing that Sentinel charges. In Yoroiden series, Seiji Date represent the Courtesy Virtue with his green colored Armor of Halo. Seiji is easily my favorite character from Yoroiden because he is the cool archetype of the cast and the Nodachi just look kickass. I think the next Yoroiden that Sentinel will make is probably the Spear guy even though they definitely attempt to complete the set. Hopefully Bandai will consider to make a move to Yoroiden once again after they stopped milking Saint Seiya series.

Mobile Suit Gundam Ensemble Vol 12 Review

Featuring G-Self as the Posterboy!

Samurai Champloo

 For a long time i have heard this series being highly regarded and this one definitely doesn't betray the expectation. If you have Cowboy Bebop story formula put into Feudal Japan setting, Samurai Champloo is the result. Just like Cowboy Bebop, Samurai Champloo is a misadventure of group of misfits who travel together after some fateful encounter. This time the group of misfits consist of two skilled swordsmen led by a teenage girl travelling around Edo Period Japan to seek a person with a single clue of "a samurai who smell like sunflower". As an Anime, Samurai Champloo got the complete package of Action, Comedy and Tragedy with the unquestionably superb storytelling since the series is handled by veteran anime screenwriter Dai Sato! Apparently Samurai Champloo is the first work by Studio Manglobe which made Ergo Proxy and these two series are easily the Crown Jewel of now-defunct anime studio.

 Overall Samurai Champloo makes a good gateway for anime with its complete package and i feel it is more upbeat version of Cowboy Bebop as it had much less depressing ending compared to former. I felt that Samurai Champloo could have another season to expand its story, but the 26 Episode of its single season is a solid experience already.

July - September 2020 Loot

 Another Heavy Duty accumulation of Loots over past three months with Mecha and FGO being the usual business. This time's loot is rather expensive due to Sentinel items being part of the haul with Riobot Legioss and Johanna easily account for half of this loot's overall value. For the Mecha series there are new series that join part of my collection as i invest on Beastbox and Joytoy which are some recent Chinese made Mecha Toys that seems to have Potential. As for FGO series, i got myself some Figmas and non-Banpresto Prize Figures for a change. While i usually restrict myself in getting Figmas only for the Servants that have visited my Chaldea, i am willing to get Proto Saber in advance so the Bishie King is willing to grace a visit next year just like Gilgamesh already did in recent Gilfest. As usual Prize Figure will likely get the earliest opportunity for Reviews but i will try to prioritize the Beastbox this time.

Onmyoji 1/8 Yotohime: Scarlet Saber

 For once we are getting some PVC Figure for Onmyoji series distributed by GSC and the postergirl of the series Yotohime obviously make it as the prime choice. Made by Myethos in 1/8 Scale, Yotohime in her Scarlet Saber Skin will be available in August 2021 with 16000 Yen Price tag.  I have been playing the MOBA version of the game called Onmyoji Arena for almost a year and Yotohime is certainly one of the more popular picks by players due to her solid kit and waifu factor. There have been several PVC Figures for Onmyoji series before which mainly features Waifu Shikigamis like Miketsu and Yuki Onna, but this version of Yotohime seems to be the first one from Onmyoji series to be officially distributed by GSC.

 In Onmyoji Arena, Yoto is a Samurai/Ninja Shikigami who is quite good at sustained ganking due to her bulk and skillset. While my mains are currently Tank or Marksman, Yotohime is one the Shikigami that i tried to master better since Netease has been treating her lavishly with Premium Skins. In any case, Yoto is likely getting more merchandise in the future due to her popularity considering her Retribution Light and Swordmaiden Skin are top tier too.

Planetes

 A long time ago i read this Sci-fi manga called Planetes that had Human Space Explorations as its theme and it lived up to its expectation as an award winning manga. Then Sunrise made 26 anime adaptation for this series back in 2003 which i gave a watch recently and it aged like a fine wine. Planetes narrates the story of an Astronaut working as Space Debris collector who aspire to own a Spaceship someday. Through his job as Space Debris Collector, the main character encounter various sorts of people with their own dreams and motives revolving around Space which makes up the story of the series. Planetes was renowned for its grounded and realistic depiction of the future Space Travel where humanity has reached the stage to attempt Space Travel to Jupiter and the struggles for such Goal. 

EVA-FRAME: Evangelion Shin Gekijouban Vol.01

  Over this past one year, Toys Manufacturer have been intensively milking the Eva franchise in anticipation of the final movie and now Bandai is making an interesting product for the series with their G-Frame lineup. After surviving for three years, Gundam Candy Toys lineup G-Frame now spread its wing to another mecha series, Evangelion with Eva Frame. Just like G-Frame, EVA Frame features 13 cm mecha action figure with detachable armor and inner frame as its main gimmick which Bandai give a very promising inner frame for this one. For the Price of 4000 Yen which cost roughly the same with a single EVA Robot Spirit, EVA-Frame will be scheduled for February 2021 release

  The first volume of EVA Frame series start with a solid bang as it features the classic EVA 00, 01 and 02 team which still remain iconic after more than 20 years. EVA-Frame came in 8 Boxes for each package which contain 6 Boxes for Eva Unit inner-frame and armor Parts then 2 boxes for Hangar and additional weapons. The Volume of EVA-Frame also came with Premium version which include positron rifle and shield to reenact Yashima Operation. 

Given the potential of the new EVA-Frame lineup, i think the series could last for 3rd volume at least which Bandai probably will throw in some Angels and other obscure EVA designs. I hoped the first volume could have included the Magorok E-Sword but probably that one will be reserved with Armored EVA-01 in the future EVA-Frame release. Given its size, EVA-Frame also had quite good compatibility with Shodo Ultraman so you can pit Eva units against some Kaijus for varieties. Lastly i am quite sure Evangelion will get another candy toys possibly Ensemble or even Chogokin Hello Kitty by Bandai given it already got several like Coonuts and Gasha Portraits.

Final Fantasy Chocobo Mascot Coin Bank Review

 Just a Chicken Mascot passing by

Fate/Grand Order Conofig Saber Artoria Pendragon

 It appears that Aniplex tried to make something similar to GSC Pop Up Parade with their new Semi-Premium figure lineup, Conofig! Sold for 5000 Yen Price tag, Aniplex is opening their Conofig lineup with figures for 3 Servants; Mash, Artoria and Merlin with July 2021 release schedule. In terms of sizing, the Conofig figure is designed as non scale by Aniplex but the scaling will be roughly around the same with Max Factory Figma.

 Up until now Aniplex only release premium sized 1/7 Figure for FGO series but i think they are seriously try to step up their game with Conofig series. While the Conofig figure series is even smaller than Pop Up Parade, the lineup still has great potential if handled well by Aniplex. 

 With their firm grip of Fate Grand Order brand, Aniplex could use this lineup to release Figures for Servants which are not popular enough to warrant Premium PVC treatment.As long as Aniplex paid extra attention with the Packaging and Presentation, Conofig should have plenty opportunities to flourish. Because devoted FGO Fans are willing to invest on the lineup as long as the sculpt quality does not differ much with Pop Up Parade

I am looking forward to the second batch of the Conofig series which got Jalter in her 3rd Ascension!
 

Hinowa ga Crush

 An ongoing direct sequel of Akame ga Kill and this one doesn't disappoint as it still has plenty bloodshed compared to its predecessor! After the bloody conflict in the Empire concluded. Akame sets on a journey to a far eastern land akin to Warring States Period of Japan in order to undo her curse from Murasame and Hinowa ga Crush basically covered this story part. During her travel, Akame landed on a small village of a small nation which was under invasion by a Strong Military nation led by Nobunaga Expy. In the village Akame befriended a group of talented youths which the main heroine Hinowa whose name used as the manga title are among them. The story of this manga basically cover the story of Hinowa to reach her Dream as a Military General with Akame serving as support character. But since Hinowa ga Crush shares the same setting with Akame ga Kill, grimdark bloodsheds and gruesome protagonists deaths are included in the package.

So far the manga series has been running for 33 chapters and it has not betrayed the expectations. There is this particular mary-sue male friend of Hinowa who fell in love with a princess and ambitiously rise through the ranks in order to court the princess. He was close to attain his dream only to die a dog's death by the hand of Nobunaga Expy who complete the deal with NTR. I think Hinowa ga Crush story will rely on the Nobunaga Expy for the majority part of story to keep things interesting and most likely only handful of the main characters will survive by the end of the series. I will keep a tab on this series only for waiting Akame to regain her power someday which she will no doubt unleashed some epic kills once that happens.
 

Dialone DA-65 Battle Convoy V-Max

 Another kickass entry for Diaclone series and this one is even bigger than Big Powered and even better gimmick. Back thenTakara Tomy made a Diaclone called Battle Convoy which later more become well known as Optimus Prime and this time the Modern Diaclone Redesign is on the whole another level. Diaclone Battle Convoy V-Max will be scheduled for February 2020 release with 32000 Yen Price Tag.

 G1 Optimus Prime is well known for its iconic Trailer Truck design and the new Diaclone version made the trailer container into awesome Operation Base. There are plenty of configurations to go for the trailer Container base which even capable to contain other Diaclone vehicles making it an essential playset if you are a collector for Diaclone series. If it was not due to the ongoing pandemic, this Diaclone probably gain the hype it deserve.

Fate/Grand Order Figma 381 Lancer Scathach Review

The Warrior Queen has comes forth from the Land of Shadows!

Fate/Grand Order Nendoroid 1440 Alter Ego Okita Souji Alter

 Few months after the Gudaguda Teitou event ended, GSC announced the Nendoroid for the star of the event, Okita Souji Alter or Okitan up for preorder! The Nendoroid Okitan will be released in her 1st ascension form on April 2021 for 5500 Yen which is just when the Teitou rerun event around the corner. For some reason the Nendoroid doesn't include Okitan Sleepy faceplate which is one of the more iconic expression of Okita's dorky alternate version. In FGO, Okita Alter is the Counter Force version of Okita who was sent to deal with abnomalies that occur from mysterious Holy Grail Wars in paralel world version of Tokyo where Nobunaga clan was reigning supreme. Okitan proves to be another instant popular servants during her debut due to the combination of her character and her solid kit that enables her to be strong Cavalier class farmer. In the Fandom, Okitan often depicted as younger sister of Saber Okita whom the latter is constantly jealous at for her lack of crippling illness and another competition for Ritsuka's affection,

I am quite content with my Desktop Army version of Okitan so i will wait for the eventual Figma version instead which i think Max Factory should put more effort so that the figure able to stand properly.

Valthirian Arc : Hero School Story

 A Promising RPG series made by Indonesian Developer

Journey POP UP Parade The Traveler

 From one of the best selling PS3 game, Journey; Good Smile Company made a POP UP Parade figure for the enigmatic main character, The Traveler! Priced at 3800 Yen like other figures in the lineup, POP Up Parade Traveler will be scheduled for January 2021 release date. Journey was one of a kind experience game that left a lasting impression to me. The game dev of Journey, Thatgamecompany are renowned for their abstract gameplay that offer immersive experience. While Flower is my personal favorite, Journey is definitely the game that made the devs left a lasting legacy on Video Game Industry. There is a certain kind of charm of having the player traveled on Desolate landscapes on the journey of death and rebirth and this game manage to make it a meaningful one. Merchandise aside, Journey is easily a must play game if you enjoy artistic value in video game.

Bandai 1/12 Imperial Fist and Salamanders Primaris Marine

 Seems like the sales for 1/12 Ultramarine Primaris Marine action figure was good enough that Bandai decided to continue the lineup, with another two additional Founding Space Marine chapters this time! For the second batch of Bandai's Space Marine action figures, Imperial Fist and Salamanders make it to the cut. The Preorder will be available in two weeks and each of these two Space Marines action figure comes with distinct pattern of Bolter for variety purposes.

 Unlike Ultramarines Chapters Space Marines who are renowned for their versatility, Imperial Fist and Salamanders had their own specialities. Imperial Fist Chapter specialize in Defensive Siege fight and they had bad blood with Traitor Space Marines chapter called Iron Warriors due to complicated relationship of their respective primarch. Whereas Salamanders Space Marines are well known for their craftsmanship and preference for Flamer and Melta weapons, making them perfect opponents against Orks and Tyranids. Personally i would love to get the Salamanders Space Marine if they are available for Preorder at my local toy distributor. Because they are one of the few Space Marine Chapters that retain their humanity and will give it their all to save any Imperium citizen in the zone of conflict.

While i expect Blood Angels or Space Wolves are the ones to be made for the second batch, either of them will still likely make an appearance if the lineup continue for 3rd wave.

Reincarnated as a Sword

 Another gem that has potential from the oversaturated Isekai Genre and i think the author for this series must be a fan of Rance series or something. While Isekai series tend to have reincarnated beta males as protagonist who gathered harems with their new acquired overpowered abilities, Tensei Shitara Ken Deshita had the main character reincarnated as a sentient sword whose fate intertwined with a beast girl named Fran. After saving the beastgirl from a fate of slavery, the main character sets on an epic adventure with the girl. I started Ken Tensei from the manga and so far the worldbuilding quality is cut above the average isekai series. I think the author probably got some of his inspiration from Rance series, a high fantasy series well known for its writing quality and Ken Tensei main character is essentially less perverted version of Demonic Sword Chaos.

 Since the serialization is still far from finished i can't really put a final verdict for Ken Tensei but certainly it still has plenty of room for growth. I am quite sure at some point this series even could get its own Anime adaptation as long as it maintain its consistency.

Boku no Hero Academia Grandista All Might Review

Because I am here again!

Ayashi no Ceres

 Another great Shojo classic by Fushigi Yuugi mangaka which i should have been reading for a long time ago. Watase Yuu Sensei had a great talent at incorporating mythologies at her works and for Ayashi no Ceres she take good spin on the celestial robe tale. Ayashi no Ceres storyline has the formula of your standard Shojo series where some bishies are fighting over the main heroine.

 Since Ayashi no Ceres was intended for mainstream audience at the time, the main heroine character is probably designed to be insufferable just like Miaka from Fushigi Yuugi. However Watase Yuu managed to perfectly capture the image of a Divine Beauty in this series through Ceres, a resurrected Celestial Maiden who is hellbent to destroy her descendants due to some betrayal by her consort and reclaim her lost Hagoromo in order to return to the Heaven.

 To me the main strength of Ayashi no Ceres comes from Ceres, a seemingly tragic heroine who tread on the path of vengeance due to complicated relation with her former lover and the last two volume concludes her story quite well. Overall Ayashi no Ceres is another good read if you enjoy Fushigi Yuugi.

Swordbreaker the Game

 High Fantasy and Adventure game is always a winning combination for me and there is this recent western game that fits the bill. Swordbreaker is a short interactive novel made by Russian Developer DuCats game and it is another good game for a modest price. Illustrated with Gorgeous Comic Book style visuals, the game narrates the story of a swashbuckling adventurer called Swordbreaker in a quest for treasure hunt in a mysterious abandoned castle.

 Swordbreaker will need to rely on his skills and wits to overcome the Monstrous creatures and Traps that gets in his way with the treasure. To put it in a DnD term, Swordbreaker offers a mini campaign story of a mid level Fighter/Rogue Hybrid exploring a Castle Dungeon that resemble something from Ravenloft setting. There are plenty of ways that Swordbreaker to die horribly but if he overcomes all the perils of the castle, there are three possible ending routes to go for. The three branching routes are Heroic, Coward and Killer which are chosen depending on the choices made by the Swordbreaker, though it boils down on how the Swordbreaker deals on the obstacles in the castle.

 I feel that there are potential for Swordbreaker series as the game manage to establish itself with its well crafted protagonist. With the Main Protagonist served as the solid foundation, the Developer could craft another campaign for him to set on an epic adventure. For now i will be patiently waiting for the Swordbreaker Origin getting a Switch port.

Here are the Ending CGs for each route if you don't have time to play the game

Kanojo Okarishimasu

 I am not really into Romcom genre manga as the reading experience can be rage inducing at times, but recently I marathoned this series called Kanojo Okarishimasu for several reasons. Kanojo Okarishimasu attracted my interest as the series received some major backing by big shots in Anime industry early this year. The support Kanojo Okarishimasu received is quite significant as Main Heroines in the anime adaptation is voiced by Top Tier Female Seiyuus who also had major role in FGO and then PVC Figurines for the main heroine also starting popping out. So i thought the series must be quite something that the major players in Anime Industry put a stake on the series and thus gave a quick read through the manga.

Arknights Nendoroid 1422 Chen

 Arknights series has started picking up paces with the Nendoroid series and now the Prodigy Lungmen Superintendent, Lady Chen makes it as the 4th Arknight series Nendoroid. Nendoroid Chen is scheduled for April 2021 release with 5300 Yen Price tag. She comes with her signature twin blades and Bear Plushie as her additional accessory.

 Chen is easily one of the more popular Operator in Arknights as she came with Gorgeous and Cool design complemented by Excellent Kit. She plays a major role in the Main Storyline as she clashes often with Reunion faction due to her duty to lead Lungmen Police force in the frontline. But personally i am not really fond with her character development become more edgy as of Chapter 5 and apparently she pulled off rather stupid stunt in Chapter 7. We still have Silverash and Eyjafjalla standing by for the next Nendoroid release, but i expect we will see more of other 6* Operators to make appearance eventually. If Arknights series managed to maintain its popularity, i think there is a good chance for Chen in her China Dress to show up in Nendoroid as well.