T.H.A.T’s preview to the coming Spring 2008 season anime~
Too Gar for us to blog it. Yes, they have a new OVA on Saint Seiya, but you will not read about it here.
The year turns to a warmer climate. It also means that a new season is on the way as well. It is surprising how I drop so many of the fall winter season series within 8 episodes, and that is perhaps why I am somewhat looking forward to winter 2007/2008Spring 2008 season. I will not be mentioning the really strange anime such as Internet Ghost PIPOPA and St. Seiya The Hades Chapter-Elysion (no, we refuse to blog overly GAR stuff and apologize for those who are more alternative viewers).
Do use the links below to access the entries for the preview and use the “back to top” function to go back here. Enjoy the preview! A special thanks to Anidb, Animesuki forums, wikipedia and Psgels for most of the summaries/plots. We also used the feedback we received for last season’s preview. These additional features include the possible bloggers who are interested, the animation company and a few notable seiyuus for each anime. Please comment too if you want any features for our next preview in Summer 2008!
Confirmed Series in chronological order (click on link to jump to the series): BUS GAMER | Ikuze Gen-san | Macross Frontier | Kyou Kara Maou! 3rd Season | Allison to Lillia | Kanokon | Zettai Karen Children | Code Geass Lelouch of the Rebellion R2 | Nabari no Ou | Soul Eater | Vampire Knight | Monochrome Factor | Uchino 3 Shimai | Kamen no Maid Guy | Kaiba | Crystal Blaze | D.C. II S.S.~Da Capo II Second Season~ | RD Sennou Chousashitsu | Himitsu Top Secret | Toshokan Sensou | Amatsuki | To Love-Ru| Golgo 13
Unconfirmed series: Wagaya no Oinari-sama | Nijuu Menzou Musume | xxxHOLic Kei | Kure-nai | S-A ~Special-A~ | Junjou Romantica | The Tower of Druaga ~the Aegis of URUK~ | Itazura na Kiss | Neo Angelique Abyss | Kyouran Kazoku Nikki | Blassreiter
BUS GAMER
Details
Number of episodes: 3
Website: http://www.fwinc.co.jp/busgamer/
Japanese Air Date: March 14
Animation company: Studio Izena
Seiyuu: Hiroki Takahashi, Junichi Suwabe, Kenichi Suzumura
Summary
Bus Gamer was a short-lived manga series, created by Kazuya Minekura. It follows the story of three young men hired by a mysterious company to participate in a business game, a way for companies to gamble against each other for corporate secrets. An illegal dog-fight conducted in strict secrecy, the Bus Game is a battle simulation game where gamers are selected by various corporations to compete three-on-three on a battleground which is usually inside Tokyo. The teams are divided into “HOME” and “AWAY”. The “HOME” team is given a disk containing their corporation’s secret files to protect while the “AWAY” team attempts to steal the disk. The “AWAY” team wins if they are able to steal the disk within the given time limit where the “HOME” team wins if they are able to keep their disk safe.
Thoughts
Impz: I really like how this sounds like. Considering it is a mere 3 episodes, it will not hurt for me to watch it. Studio Izena is still an unknown animation production company, assisting in Law of Ueki and Tactics. I will just watch it, but don’t count on me blogging it.
Igunis: Can I get a woohoo for short anime! I love saying that I finished an anime series so I will most likely watch this regardless of how much I end up liking it or hating it. The character designs look pretty nice and I’m hoping for some “Death Note” style tactics for how to capture opposing teams’ disks. The character designs in the trailer look A LOT like the ones from Saiyuki. Is it the same artist?
Calawain: I really hope they are playing this game on an actual bus or the engrish title fails. Like, when I first watched Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha I thought she was a singer or the show was a musical…
Reverse Vampire : …I’m speechless here, and I think it’s a hands down for this anime. I don’t think I have time watching it, but watching just the first episode might do. I see how is it going to work out. (Hope they are buses crashing piling up in the middle of the streets, haha.)
Extrange: Bus Gamer (which means BUSiness Gamer and has nothing to do with a bus) is interesting. It looks like as an attempt to advertize for the manga version. Bur Gamer manga ended abrutly due to the magazine where it was being serialized going down. Even so, it had quite a bit of fans and it was even published in the US by Tokyopop. The mangaka already said he wanted to return to this manga and make more chapters.
Lupus: This sounds so original and interesting! I have not seen this “Business set up illegal competition to settle their differences” setting a million times before! By the way that’s sarcasm and I hope lots and lots of people die. Brutally.
Shokkeru: Seeing as this is an anime involving “games” and possibly other forms of modern/futuristic techonologies, I’m all for it. I’m usually a big fan of technical sci-fi (if you’ll excuse me for making up terms). Dennou Coil and .hack has been my favorites so far. I haven’t read the manga nor heard of the series before now but, all I can say is that I hope it won’t be like Yu-Gi-Oh. -.-
Rieuzedx: Will watch, doubt I’ll blog it. Might do it for practice…maybe.
Possible bloggers: Shokkeru (maybe)
Golgo 13
Details
Number of episodes: 12
Website: http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/golgo/
Japanese Air Date: March 11
Animation company: Unknown
Seiyuu: Hiroshi Tachi
Summary
Based on the long-running action adult manga by Takao Saito.
Golgo 13 has been called a Japanese counterpart to James Bond, except with a darker character, a much more hardcore attitude towards sex, and a complete lack of morality. Golgo 13 is described as a mystery man of undetermined origin, possibility being at least part Japanese, who takes any assignment for any employer (it has been said he has worked for the CIA and the KGB) as long as the right price is given and will always fulfill his contracts, even if he has two or more opposing contracts at the same time. He is an uncanny sharpshooter, with near 100% accuracy and capable of lethal trick shooting, and regularly uses a customized, scoped M-16 rifle in his assassinations. He also is a heavy smoker of cigars.
Thoughts
Impz: When Extrange pointed out that there’s such an anime, I simply told him I have no clue what this is about. Now that I do, I am still not interested in it despite the history. I am no fan of GAR anime, but I am very sure that it will appeal to a different group of fans other than me. Not watching, not going close.
Extrange: This is the father of GAR. Forget Hitman 13, Archer or any other examples, this guy was being the bastard he is way before the rest of the wannabes were even conceived. The manga has 39 years already and it’s still ongoing, making it the longest running adult manga of Japan with 142 volumes. Unless some cosmic disaster destroys the current civilization, this will be a legendary show.
Crusader: Amoral bastard, eh? Sounds fun though I have to be a bit skeptical scope M-16 for assassinations sounds awfully strange. Still nothing like smoking cigars to show your utter contempt for the enemy. Original GAR…sure hope there are subs, though if it proves worthy then no post could ever describe it in its full glory.
Rieuzedx: Since I’m a whore for pretty, and this anime doesn’t look pretty, that’s a no.
Possible bloggers:
Ikuze Gen-san
Details
Number of episodes: 24
Website: http://www.ikuze-gensan.com/
Japanese Air Date: March 24th
Animation company: Nippon Animation
Seiyuu: Azusa Yamamoto, Kappei Yamaguchi
Summary
Can’t find any information on the anime itself. However, it seems to be about a boy who is on a mission to stop an irresponsible construction company. In your quest, you will savagely destroy tons of private property and cause general chaos on the streets of virtual Japan.
Thoughts
Impz : Other that the little information I found that it’s a psp game, I have absolutely no clue what this is about. Strangely, I am not really bothered to find out too.
Crusader: Socialist/Anarchist Propaganda.
Igunis: It just looks too cute and kiddy for me. I admit that I still pull out the occasional Doraemon episode and am still obsessed with My Neighbor Totoro but I think I’ve outgrown this stage at least.
Extrange: Ikuze Gen-san is based on a game better known in the US as Hammerin’Harry. You guys remember an arcade game from 20 years ago where you were this shorty guy smashing workers and buildings with a wooden mallet? That’s the one. It’s basically another attempt of media advertising, this time for the upcoming psp remake of the game.
Lupus: I agree with Crusader. It’s Japan’s Left Wing political parties trying to sabotage the great Capitalist West, teaching the children of Japan to rebel against capitalism at a young age. Totally unacceptable.
Shokkeru: Sounds like a bunch of crap. Even if it is a remake of a game, I doubt the show will be any good… but who knows…
Rieuzedx: Lol. No.
Possible bloggers
Macross Frontier
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.mbs.jp/macross-f/
Japanese Air Date: April 3rd
Animation company: Satelight
Seiyuu: Aya Endo, Yuuichi Nakamura, Rie Tanaka
Summary
Macross F is set in around 2070A.D.. F denotes “Frontier”; “Frontier” stands for the migration fleet which is the setting of the story. The story is about the fleet`s encounters with space monsters (or things to that effect) while on its course. Crusader did the first episode of Macross Frontier back in January if you want to know more.
Thoughts
Impz: Macross is nice. The green hair loli is cute. I might just watch it when I have time. You know my distaste of mecha in general, even if it is the famed Macross. I did love the original Macross!
Crusader: Well armed with only dim memories of Robotech I am keen on blogging this one. The teaser episode has already grabbed my attention, and seeing as how THAT is in the business of promoting green haired lolis, this one is a keeper. The dogfights looked cool enough to me those series vets may beg to differ. Nevertheless Them Valkyries are sweet…
Igunis: Wait…didn’t this already come out? I could’ve sworn…but anyways, I’ve never seen the Macross series so I can’t say much input here. I like the screencap though?
Calawain: I watched Macross Plus and Do You Remember Love and greatly disliked both of them. And from what I read/hear it’s the same plot premise as every other Macross so I’m staying away from this for the most part. Yes it may look pretty, but I think I’ll stick with Code Geass…
Extrange: I have watched a good deal of Macross animes and even played some of the games, so this is another animes which brings me back to my childhood. Unlike Calawain, I’ve appreciated both Macross Plus and Do You Remember Love, which were nice space operas animes on their time. From what I’ve seen from the first episode, Macross Frontier will be similar…except this time we have a cute green hair lolish girl perfoming the female lover role. Nyan nyan..
Lupus: A bandwagon that I missed 20 years ago and one that I’m not about to jump on now.
Shokkeru: I’m on the same boat as Lupus. I haven’t seen a single Macross and I doubt I’ll start now.
Rieuzedx: Crusader has already vehemently stated that he’ll be doing violent things to me if I steal this from him. That said I’m apt to have him blog it anyway. Every anime involving mechs is an iffy one in my book. I’m mainly crazy about Macross F because of the production value…so pretty!
Possible bloggers: Crusader
Kyou Kara Maou! 3rd Season
Details
Number of episodes: 39
Website: http://www.maruma-ova.jp/
Japanese Air Date: April 3th
Animation company: Studio DEEN
Seiyuu: Takahiro Sakurai, Akio Ohtsuka
Summary
Yuri Shibuya is an average high school student whose passion in life is baseball. That is until he intervenes in the bullying of a classmate, Ken Murata, and gets his head dunked in a toilet. Surprisingly he is sucked into the toilet, and ends up in another world. When he reaches dry land, he sees some people dressed in medieval costume and speaking in some weird vernacular. He assumes that it is a theme park of some sort. The people seem to be fightened by him, pelt him with rocks, and begin to form a small mob. He’s rescued by Adalbert von Grantz who uses some form of magic so Yuri understands the local language. Konrad Weller and Günter von Christ then rescue Yuri and take him to Blood Pledge Castle, the residence of the Maoh, where he soon finds out he is the new Maou or Demon King will rule over the Shin Makoku (”New Demon Kingdom”) (眞魔国).
Thoughts
Impz: I never watched the first season. Or the second. Now, or the third.
Igunis: This is shoujo. I don’t watch shoujo. Unless it’s manly shoujo. Wait, that’s like Yaoi isn’t it…
Calawain: Somewhat interesting concept, but I haven’t watched any of the previous incarnations so I can’t really give an opinion and I won’t be watching it.
Reverse Vampire: My otaku friend will be waiting very impatiently for the 3rd season to come since she is a big fan of it and stuff like that. I’ll give it a try if I have the time.
Extrange: Okay…..a bishie anime filled with Shonen-Ai (Boy’s Love) undertones. I think that explains why I haven’t seen the first and second season. And why I won’t see the third.
Lupus: Notice how Crusader hasn’t written a comment about this yaoi show. That’s real manliness right there.
Shokkeru: If this is the 3rd season, I’m not going back to watch the first two.
Rieuzedx: I’ve seen…39?…episodes of this, and while it wasn’t all that bad, I don’t feel like digging up the rest of the old seasons so I can blog the newest one. Sorry guys!
Possible bloggers
Allison to Lillia
Details
Number of episodes: 26
Website: http://allison-web.net/
Japanese Air Date: April 3rd
Animation company: Madhouse
Seiyuu: Nana Mizuki, Kouichi Yamadera, Mamiko Noto
Summary
The series will be a compilation of the two manga “Alison” and “Lillia and Treize,” both original works by Shigusawa Keiichi (Kino no Tabi). The series will take place in a country split into two factions in a 1940’s-like world, that have been repeatedly warring with each other for over 100 years. The first half will involved Alison and her male friend Treize who will set out from an orphanage in order to search for a “treasure” to end the war. The second half will take place after Alison and Will find the “treasure,” and the war ends, in an era where a united state is possible. Lilia, a mother of two daughters, as well as Treize’s girlfriend, will play an active roll in the second half.
Thoughts
Impz: All right, this is perhaps the first anime that I am somewhat interested. The premise seems to be of a WWII which is always good to start with. The character designs, however, leaves much to be desired. In addition, I must admit that my dislike of Madhouse puts me off quite a bit since I am quite a superficial person when it comes to graphics. I didn’t like Mokke too, so the director of Mokke will not gain much favor with me. I will just watch the first episode to appreciate the novel creator of Kino’s travels.
Crusader: Well as WWII junkie I will do a recon op on this one. If they get enough of the twin engined fighters and bombers right It might be worth blogging. They better have the de Havilland Mosquito…
Igunis: I’m torn here. I am intrigued by the storyline but I don’t think that I’ll ever put aside enough time or garner enough personal interest to watch this series. My problem is that unless something falls into a certain category, it takes me generally forever to watch it. I’ve been stuck on Planetes for what, half a year now?
Calawain: The first thing I noticed about this show was that the character designs on the promotional materials looked really nice. The trailer didn’t provide much insight and it wasn’t even animated, so we’ll see. I’m a big WWII junkie like Crusader but it remains to be seen whether the fact that it’s set in the 1940s means anything in that regard. I’m mildly interested.
Extrange: World War II style anime settings are always promissing and all the material provided so far points to a compelling show, although I can’t say more without seeing a more complete trailer. This is one of those shows that I can only tell if I’ll see or not until I get the first episode.
Lupus: I see a school girl and planes on the website. I’m sold.
Shokkeru: I was actually intrigued by this show in an earlier preview on another site. I’m totally digging the character designs and the setting. Something about anime-styled 1940’s retro suits my fancy and I’m not even that big on WWII like Crusader and Calawain are. I would like to blog this one but seeing as the two of the biggest bloggers on this site have already put interest into it, I can’t help but step aside.
Rieuzedx: I’ll more than likely be watching this, but I’ll be leaving the blogging up to someone else.
Possible bloggers: Impz / Crusader
Kanokon
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.kanokon.com/
Japanese Air Date: April 5th
Animation company: XEBEC
Seiyuu: Ayako Kawasumi, Mamiko Noto, Chiwa Saito
Summary
Kanokon`s story revolves around Kouta Oyamada, a young first-year high school student who moves from the country to the city and thus transfers to Kunpo High School. On his first day at his new school, a beautiful second-year female student named Chizuru Minamoto asks him to meet her alone in the music room. When he arrives, she reveals her that she is in fact a fox deity and from that day on the two hang out together. Nozomu is a first year female student at Kouta`s school, she is in fact a wolf deity and in love with Kouta, and a rival of Chizuru for Kouta`s affections.
Thoughts
Impz: Another fanservice series. I dropped Kimiaru and Rosario + vampire after 4 episodes. That’s my answer for you. No.
Crusader: Hey any furry-cons here?
Igunis: I’ve been reading the manga and it’s pretty much just fanservice. There’s some revelations to a “deeper” plot, but I’m pretty sure that Kanokon will end up like the Rosario+Vampire anime with a lot of plot cut out. Of course, this doesn’t mean I won’t watch it. I love Chizuru hrhr.
Calawain: I like to give most harem lovecoms at least a try, because sometimes you find something really good (Kimiaru) but there’s always the threat of something really lame (Rosario + Vampire). The character designs look decent, I like the school uniforms here, and it pulls in some high powered female seiyuu talent in Mamiko Noto (playing a guy again) and Ayako Kawasumi (playing the main heroine). Has potential, giving it a shot at least.
Reverse Vampire: …that’s it, it’s a thumbs down for it. I’m not wasting my own time watching a show like this, full of fanservice.
Extrange: As Igunis, I’ve read the manga too. If you don’t like the kind of ecchi shows like Kimiaru and R+V, you will hate this; on the other hand, if you don’t mind being treated with naked 400 year old fox girls, you will enjoy the light humor mixed with the Monsters x Monster Hunters thematic. And yes , Chizuru is Moé Moé.
Lupus: Fuck yeah more harem/furry hilarity! Best show this year! Not.
Shokkeru: Certainly a fanservice show. I think I’ll have enough “guilty pleasure” shows to satisfy me without this one. Pass.
Rieuzedx: I pretty much hate shows based off of fanservice. If it’s in there with a nice plot and flashy fighting scenes, that’s ok…unfortunately for Kanokon, that doesn’t appear to be the case.
Possible bloggers: Calawain
Zettai Karen Children
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://websunday.net/zettai/
Japanese Air Date: April 6th
Animation company: Synergy SP
Seiyuu: Aya Hirano, Haruka Tomatsu, Yuuichi Nakamura
Summary
The Zettai Karen Children manga centers around three ten-year-old girls who possess some of the world’s strongest paranormal powers: Kaoru Akashi with psychokinesis, Aoi Nogami with teleportation, and Shiho Sannomiya with psychometry. BABEL — the “BAse of Backing ESP Laboratory” established by Japan’s Ministry of Interior — attempts to convert “The Children” into a military special operations unit. To that end, BABEL saddles a hapless, powerless 20-year-old lieutenant named Kōichi Minamoto with the task of supervising/baby-sitting the three girls with Level 7 powers.
Thoughts
Impz: I really like the premise. I just wonder who are the animators because this feels like some random quirky stuff. The manga author is famous for supernatural comedy, so it’s right up my alley. If the first few episodes satisfy my expectation, it is more than likely to land into my blogging list. You never know for something with quite a bit of history.
Crusader: Well…I’ll just let Impz take the lead scout role on this one. Mildly interested.
Igunis: Heroes for lolis? As long as there’s no romantic stuff happening between Koichi and the girls, it should be a nice watch.
Calawain: I may just watch this for the high powered seiyuu. In addition to Aya Hirano making one of her rare appearances these days, you have Ryoko Shiraishi and Yuuichi Nakamura filling out two of the remaining central cast members. The studio here is the same behind Hayate no Gotoku! so I have confidence in that at least. The concept seems ok and I enjoy comedy so I’ll try this one too.
Shokkeru: Looks similar to Powerpuff Girls. Three super powered girls possibly fighting “evil”? I think I’ll pass. However, I do kinda like the retro styled artwork… no idea if it’ll be like that for the anime though.
Rieuzedx: 10 year olds + super powers + yawnnnnnnnn….
Possible bloggers:
Code Geass Lelouch of the Rebellion R2
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.geass.jp/
Japanese Air Date: April 6th
Animation company: Sunrise
Seiyuu: Jun Fukuyama, Takahiro Sakurai, Yukana
Summary
Japan or Area 11 is occupied by a great power, Britannia Empire. There are two boys living there, Lelouch and Suzaku. Lelouch is trying to obtain the power of Geass to destroy the world. On the other hand, Suzaku operates a nightmare frame ,Lancelot, to seek for ideal and truth of the world. Their contrastive ways of life make a big wave to rock the empire. A new legend of the 21st century is about to begin.
Thoughts
Impz: I will be kicked, trolled and flamed for this. I don’t care about this at all. You can give me any incentive to watch it, but you will never get me to watch it. For all those ready to blast me as someone who never watch a single episode of this, I only drop the first season after three episodes. I know Calawain is going to blog this though, from previous YIM chats.
Crusader:I hope Cornelia is alive and that Suzaku MkII is sufficiently evil. Death to Zero. Have fun Calawain.
Igunis: You know…I really should get around to watching that first season…
Calawain: I absolutely loved the first season so there’s no way I will miss the second. I’m a sucker for most action shows, especially ones that feature characters acting not out of brute force and hoping for the best (*cough* GL) but rational tactics and planning. I enjoy all of the intrigue and counter-plotting that went on during the first season, and I’m hoping they will be able to take it onto the world stage.
Extrange: Hmm, a anti-hero bastard guy, a legendary ass with green long hair, a emo knight and a perplexed red hairerd girl with huge knockers…..oh and let’s not forget our table humping Einstein. After the epic cliffhanger on season one, I’m totally gonna see the second season and possibly co-blog this.
Shokkeru: After being royally screwed by the “last episode” of the first season, I can’t help but let Sunrise drag me into another season. Not to say I didn’t like the first season… I totally loved it. I’m just having mixed feelings about it now and not wanting another “Destiny” happening to me. I’m watching this but 99.99% not blogging.
Rieuzedx: I’ll be watching Code Geass R2 for sure. But it’ll be slowly, allowing time for me to digest what I’ve watched and work up the motivation to dig into the next part. I loved Code Geass, but it never really had me on the edge of my seat. (that means I’m not blogging it :P)
Possible bloggers: Calawain / Extrange
Nabari no Ou
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.nabari.tv/
Japanese Air Date: April 6th
Animation company: JC Staff
Seiyuu: Rie Kugimiya, Ayumi Fujimura, Daisuke Namikawa
Summary
Rokujou Miharu was a seemly reluctant junior high student living in his own world. However, within him, lurked the ultimate power of Nabari, “Omnipotent”. To possess such supreme weapon, the Wolf Pack of Iga swore to bring Miharu back to Iga village. On the other hand, Miharu’s English teacher, Kumohira sensei, and classmate, Kouichi, were the Banten ninjas whose mission was to protect Miharu. A war waged over the ownership of “Omnipotent” thus started. To survive, Miharu must enter the hidden world Nabari, to become the king.
Thoughts
Impz: All right, this is yet another “I must battle all and be king!” type of shounen series. HOWEVER, we have seen this well beaten path done pretty well in some shounen shows. Also, if anyone can do it, JC Staff can make this work. JC staff almost never fails me. This is one I am looking out for.
Crusader: When in doubt burn it out.
Igunis: Lol, Nab. The title amuses me. Sorry, nerdy gamer lingo right there. I absolutely love the character designs, although the lolis head looks a bit too big. Here’s to hoping the main character doesn’t turn out to be some wimpy lead.
Extrange: Let me say this: this MAY LOOK like Naruto, but trust me, it doesn’t suck as Naruto. Main guy is a cold bastard, rest of the gang has interesting quirks, such as the Tsundere samurai girl or the ninja clan master with his own harem. It’s also interesting the concept of a hidden society (The World of Nabarin) that co-exists with the normal society (The Front World).
Shokkeru: While the premise for the story sounds utterly ridiculous, I may keep my eye on this one simply due the the character designs. I have no idea at this moment who the artist is but the guy on the right totally looks like Ginko from Mushishi.
Rieuzedx: Finally! I’m stealing this. I’m a ninja whore…I still watch Naruto in the hopes that something will actually happen besides birds flying around and Naruto crapping himself trying to construct basic sentences. I watched a trailer for this and the art is nice, which means it’ll have to suck hardcore for me NOT to blog it.
Possible bloggers: Rieuzedx
Soul Eater
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.souleater.tv/
Japanese Air Date: April 7th
Animation company: BONES
Seiyuu: Chiaki Omigawa, Kouki Uchiyama, Mamoru Miyano
Summary
This anime is based on a shounen manga by Ookubo Atsushi serialised in Shounen Gangan. Set in the Shinigami technical school for weapon technicians, the series revolves around 3 groups. Each group comprises of a weapon technician and a human weapon. The weapon technician’s goal is to make the latter a “Death Scythe” and thus fit for use by the Shinigami. In order to create this, they must collect the souls of 99 evil humans and 1 witch.
Thoughts
Impz: I really do not know about this. It is so clearly a shounen show, plus it is made by BONES. The story is somewhat interesting, but I will leave it be because there are quite a few other shows that I am more bothered about.
Crusader:: Well BONES usually does do a banged up job, not sure if that can over come my indifference to the genre.
Igunis: This one for sure I will be blogging. The manga is absolutely amazing and with BONES animating it, it should turn out to be one of the best series of this season. Of course, I’m very biased because BONES is my favorite animation studio, but I am definitely pumped up!
Reverse vampire: It could be good…I’ve read the latest few chapters of it and I think it would be good. I’m a fan of BONES. (Plus Eureka Seven, Ouran High School Host Club, Wolf’s Rain and FMA.)
Extrange: Soul Eater is a manga that I follow since the very first chapter releases, and I’m glad that finaly it has the deserved anime adaptation. One of the manga’s qualities was the art style and the quirky character and enviroment design, which can be compared to works like Tegen Toppa Gurren Lagann or FlCl. Besides, this is another show this season that will have a furry girl, in the form of a cat girl with tendences of walking around naked. Oh, and it’s being animated by fscking BONES, that’s an auto +10 points in my ratings.
Shokkeru: A few things came to mind when reading the summary for this: Suikoden I, Gundam Wing, and Death Note simply by mention of names alone. Other than that completely useless comment all I have to say is that BONES has been good in the past and will probably continue to be. I’ll likely be watching this simply due to the studio and apparent popularity of the show.
Rieuzedx: Since Soul Eater already looks like a multi-author show, here’s my two cents: I WANT IN! Seriously, along with Naruto no Ou…ooops, Nabari no Ou*, this has got to be top on my list of things I want to blog this season. Awesome looking art, great “same old concept with a moderate twist” that’s been used a million times before, and to quote Extrange, “it’s being animated by fscking BONES”. Pwn.
Possible bloggers: Igunis / Extrange / Reverse Vampire / Rieuzedx
Vampire Knight
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.vampire-knight.jp/
Japanese Air Date: April 7th
Animation company: Studio Deen
Seiyuu: Mamoru Miyano, Yui Horie, Daisuke Kishio
Summary
Yuki`s earliest memory is of a stormy night in winter, wherein she was attacked by a vampire… And then rescued by another. Now 10 years later, Yuki Cross, the adapted daughter of the headmaster of Cross Academy, has grown up and become a guardian of the vampire race, protecting her saviour, Kaname, from discovery as he leads a group of vampires at the elite boarding school. But also at her side is Zero Kiryu, a childhood friend who’s hatred for the creatures that destroyed everything he held dear, is now determined never to trust them. This coexisting arrangement seems all well and good, but have the vampires truly renounced their murderous ways, or is there a darker truth behind their actions. Is Kaname`s infatuation with Yuki the beginning of a forbidden romance, or is it something in her forgotten past that draws him to her. Because in this world of secrets, nothing is as it seems. And the price of misplaced trust may even be worse than death.
Thoughts
Impz: I know I am mean, but I always see Studio Deen as a recipe for failure. They have never done anything amazing for me other than the godly Simoun. However, they have far more misses than pluses. Considering that I am a major fan of Vampire Knight’s manga, I really want them to make this work right. They better do. I will be murderous if they do not.
Crusader:: I don’t know a damn thing about this one, I’ll let Impz run the gauntlet on this.
Igunis: It looks a lot like Zombie Loan to me in terms of character design and the whole chainlink concept it had going on. I’ll probably this one a look as it appears to be The Shoujo action series out there, but I think I’ll leave it for Impz to ramble about.
Calawain: I have no problem with Studio Deen, as I’ve enjoyed several of their titles, but it takes something special to get me to watch a shoujo anime. Add that to the fact that I really don’t like most of the ways in which the Japanese handle vampire
lore and I doubt I’ll be watching this unless it’s amazing. Also, the main male in this is being voiced by the guy doing Tsukune from Rosario + Vampire, whose voice I can barely tolerate because he sounds like a little girl.
Reverse Vampire: YAY! I thought there’s no end if they have an anime on VK or not, and finally the dream has come into reality! I’m going to watch it, from the first till the end. But of course I won’t be reviewing all of them, since there are tests and stuff, but I’ll come in when I have the time to write it. SHOUJO RULEZ!
Extrange: I’m not really sure if this will be a well conceived adaptation. Vampire Knight is ANOTHER manga that I read (really, it’s rare to find an anime of a manga I didn’t read before…) but the genre of story and the characters isn’t quite my taste. Even so, it all depends on what kind of approach Studio Deen will have, whether they will reinforce the drama from the manga or if they will try to add action and dynamism to appeal to a broader audience. But this won’t be my top priority for watching.
Shokkeru: I didn’t even know this existed before RV started blogging about it. Saying that, I’ll just let RV deal with this show.
Rieuzedx: Might watch it…reminds me too much of Zombie Loan. That’s not a good thing. Pass.
Possible bloggers: Impz / Reverse Vampire
Monochrome Factor
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.monochro.tv/
Japanese Air Date: April 7th
Animation company: A.C.G.T.
Seiyuu: Daisuke ONO, Junichi Suwabe, Yukari Tamura
Summary
Akira Nikaido is a typical slacker high school student who thinks he has a normal life–until a mysterious man called Shirogane appears and tells him to meet him at the school that night. He is skeptical but goes anyway…and gets attacked by a shadow monster! Shirogane convinces him that the balance between the human world and the shadow world has been distorted, and that Akira must become a shin–a creature of the shadow world–in order to help restore the balance.
Thoughts
Impz: I really feel that this is a very typical shounen. In addition, I do not really care about shounen as usual, so this is out for me. The animation company is a decent one though, so graphical deterioration should not be a worry here.
Crusader:: Don’t look at me…
Igunis: It looks so…Yaoi… Character designs look decent but the white haired man’s eyes are freaking me out. The whole shadow world concept is always interesting, but I’ll probably wait till the whole series has been subbed to watch it.
Extrange: It’s a Shonen show with a bit of goth settings on the mix and the dual world thematics. Not the greatest thing since sliced bread but it isn’t bad either. It all depends on the animation quality.
Shokkeru: No comment. Pass. What else can I say? @_@
Rieuzedx: Sooo…my first thoughts on this one were something along the lines of “Hell no.” However, I was looking around trying to find new trailers for Spring 2008, and I stumbled upon some artwork of the “Shin” version of the characters. It was looking pretty tight. I may blog this depending on the animation/fighting, but for now I’m going to stick with my “No.”
Possible bloggers
Uchino 3 Shimai
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://corp.toei-anim.co.jp/press/2008/02/200848530.html
Japanese Air Date: April 8th
Animation company: Toei Animation
Trailer:
Summary
This anime is based on a very popular parenting blog on three sisters. It describes about the heartwarming and emotional trials of parenting three children. It also attempts to share the joy and personal experiences described in the blog. This is a new challenge by Toei Animation to make a flash anime.
Thoughts
Impz: Easy. No.
Crusader:: Fire in the hole!
Igunis: Concept sounds like a miniaturized Honey+Clover. But still…No.
Calawain: Bring up some bangalores!
Lupus: I’m going to watch this, and I’m going to laugh at everyone if it turns out to be another hit like Potemayo.
Extrange: Aww…look at the cute rabbit-dog….
Shokkeru: Best show ever.
Rieuzedx: WTFBBQ. @Lupus, Potemayo was spawned in the greatest depths of hell, born to an ugly mother, and raised to be the bane of all mankind. To each his own though, right?
Possible bloggers
Kamen no Maid Guy
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.maidguy.com/
Japanese Air Date: April 10th
Animation company: Madhouse
Seiyuu: Yu Kobayashi, Yuka Iguchi, Megumi Toyoguchi
Summary
This anime is based on the shounen manga by Akai Maruborou, serialised in Dragon Age. Fujiwara Naeka is a typical 17 year-old high school student. However, her true identity is one of two surviving heirs of a tycoon who has the right to inherit his mass fortune when she turns 18 in half a year. Fubuki, a young and beautiful maid, and Kogarashi, a big burly maid guy with a mask, have been assigned to keep Naeka and her brother Kousuke safe from those who would plot their demise, and to steal the fortune she would inherit.
Thoughts
Impz: I should be thinking GAR, but it’s really hard to think of GAR when the website reads “maidguy”. I really wonder how it will look like because the mentl image is giving me some huge pain. I will be watching at least a few episodes for the laugh,
and know that huge guys with maid cosplays are painful for sanity.
Crusader: Maid + guy makes me think of Mako-cakes…
Igunis: Hayate no Gotoku in GAR mode. I’m waiting to see if Calawain will blog this, as the preview image looks like some sort of Hayate/Kimiaru freak child. I’ll most likely watch for the ridiculousness that is most certain to follow.
Calawain: The title of this show brings up many of the things I like- namely trap maids like Hayate, Mako-cakes, and Jun. The premise seems a mash up of a bunch of other stuff but that’s not necessarily a bad thing. With no trailer and a website without character designs I don’t have much to go on aside from that. Voice cast looks pretty solid, nobody knock-you-out famous, but some folks that have voiced a lot of great side characters like Megumi Toyoguchi and Daisuke Sakaguchi.
Extrange:You really have to read the first chapters of the manga to understand how HUGE this anime will be. We are talking about a Maid Guy which can still keep his GAR status and is bold enough to rip off his master’s blouse just to show to her that her underwear is badly washed. Let’s not forget that this has breasts with nipples ( I love you, Ken Akamatsu, but please follow this example and draw the damn nipples!).
Shokkeru: Masked Maid Guy? With a title like that, how can it NOT do well? All jokes aside, I’ll have to see the first episode before making my judgement but, this show has grabbed some of my attention (not much).
Rieuzedx: I’ll more than likely enjoy the first few episodes of this show and then resort to reading Calawain’s blog posts to “watch” it. I’m expecting good things, but I don’t see myself blogging this.
Possible bloggers: Calawain
Kaiba
Details
Number of episodes: 12
Website: http://www.wowow.co.jp/anime/kaiba/
Japanese Air Date: April 10th
Animation company: Madhouse
Seiyuu: Houko Kuwashima, Mamiko Noto, Romi Paku
Summary
From the director of Kemonozune, it is a new work on a sci-fi/romantic genre. It is in a time when memory manipulation is available. A man, one that has lost his memories, suddenly got up. He saw a pendant with a photo of a woman. He cannot remember who she is. How is he going to get back the memories to know who he is. And who she is?
Thoughts
Impz: This is definitely for the alternative crowd. I am alternative, but not that alternative. It’s way too out there for me to accept.
Crusader:: I doubt this will be subbed so, unless I learn moonspeak this one is out.
Igunis: If we base it just upon the concept, it held much potential. However, everything else draws an “Uhh…what?” from me.
Extrange: Funny, this vaguely reminds the works of Junko Mizuno, the the reference when someone talks about Kawaii Noir, although I don’t see the “noir” bits. In a world filled with mainstream animes, this seems like a nice alternative and probably will deserve some attention by me.
Shokkeru: I’m all for crazy alternative shows but, seeing as this show might not be popular enough to be subbed, I probably won’t spend much time on this one.
Rieuzedx: I may lazy/bulk blog this just for the hell of it. Depends on whether or not it gets subbed (doubtful). Not a fan of the character designs, but I watched the PV, and the music is nice.
Possible bloggers
Crystal Blaze
Details
Number of episodes: 12
Website: http://anime.biglobe.ne.jp/crystal-blaze/
Japanese Air Date: April 17th
Animation company: Studio Fantasia
Seiyuu: Saeko Chiba, Shinichiro Miki, Eiji Maruyama
Summary
In a town where many people of different races live in, it offers a glimpse into the future. People in this world seems to be experiencing a new age of freedom and equality. However, this is only a facade, as this prosperity and happiness is just false. “S&A Detective Agency” is a gun blazing, mystery solving group living in such a world. Its members are Shu, who stands against the powers that be through pulse-pounding incidents but he is considered a deviant. Akira is a complicated but beautiful young man. The remaining two members high school girls Manami and Ayaka, mere apprentices. Unhappy with the current status quo, Shu lives day-to-day as a detective, when he meets the amnesiac heroine Sara. Investigating an incident which rocks Lags Town, he journeys to find new friends and exorcize his past.
Thoughts
Impz: This is going to be very bloody interesting. I went to the site, found no images except the above screenshot you see. Touting itself as a mystery series, I am bought with the premise. The director and animation company are both decently competent, so I should not worry too much. I will watch this, by hook or by crook.
Crusader:: Go Impz!
Igunis: The preview image for this already hooked me. A revolver and a glass of whiskey. Need I say more?
Calawain: From what ANN says, this is supposedly set in New York City. Now as a person that lives in the area I would probably find myself way too distracted by inaccuracies to enjoy the story. Add that to the fact that anime has a really horrid tendency of lame and pathetic use of American characters, so right off the bat I’m hesitant. But if it turns out ANN is full of shit eh maybe, but I’m really not into mysteries for the most part.
Extrange: Will this be a Noir anime or something in the style of Baccano? Either way, it’s a win-win situation.
Rieuzedx: I watched the new PV, and while the animation wasn’t bad, I didn’t like the character designs…this one’s out for me.
Possible bloggers
D.C. II S.S.~Da Capo II Second Season~
Details
Number of episodes: 13
Website: http://www.starchild.co.jp/special/dc2/
Japanese Air Date: April 23th
Animation company: Feel
Seiyuu: Yukari Tamura, Minori Chihara, Yui Horie
Summary
You should really know it by now. Fine, you get your summary.
Similar to its predecessor, the story takes place on the same island, Hatsunejima, in Japan, and set fifty-three years after the original anime. The Asakura sisters are the granddaughters of Junichi Asakura and Nemu Asakura from the first Da Capo. Sakura Yoshino and Junichi are the only returning characters, and Nemu is the only other character to be mentioned by name.
Thoughts
Impz: Never watched it. I cannot comment. Stripey might.
Crusader:: Set target 2500 meters, elevation 45 degrees, commence rolling barrage. Fire for effect. Fire for effect! What do you mean Stripey might, Stripey will for the sis-con compels him.
Igunis: I am such an outside of this blogging community. Who is Stripey @_@. I really need to watch the first two, or is it three?, seasons of Da Capo. It seems like standard harem fare, but unfortunately, those are the series I enjoy the best *cries in corner*.
Calawain: Haha, no. When two of the main heroines in a harem show notorious for siscon are related or non-related and living as siblings then I’m staying waaayyyyy away from that. I’m calling in my own artillery strike to add to Crusader’s. I found the first incarnation of this series to be crap, and I have little doubt the second will be anything different.
Extrange: ………What? Don’t look at me….
Shokkeru: Oh come on! It’s not that bad.
Rieuzedx: I never made it through even 5 minutes of any of the previous episodes.
Possible bloggers
RD Sennou Chousashitsu
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.ntv.co.jp/RD/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Production I.G.
Seiyuu: Ayako Kawasumi, Keiji Fujiwara, Kanae Oki
Summary
The story takes place in 2061, 50 years after humanity developed the “Net society” that depended on information networks despite their security issues. To improve security, a new network called Meta Real Network — or “Metal” for short — was developed. People`s personal memories are reduced to information and placed within “protected virtual stand-alone organic cyber enclaves called bubble shells” online. The result was a virtual “explosion” of creative freedom as people felt safe enough explore instincts and desires on Metal that they would not otherwise explore in real life. This “friction” between the Metal`s alluring lack of restrictions and rules-bound reality led to trouble and incidents that investigators known as “cyber divers” must handle. Masamichi Haru is one such cyber diver.
Thoughts
Impz: With Production I.G. on the helm, good graphics is almost expected. Strangely, I have never finished a single series made by the animation company. Most of the time, it is due to me getting bored by the series it has done. This is very bloody interesting though, and I might want to look at it carefully. No ugly virtual bodies like Ghost Hound though. That turned me off.
Crusader:: Sounds like cyber punk. I am steam punk guy, so not my forte.
Igunis: For some reason, I’m reminded of Rockman (Megaman for us Americans). Anyone else get that vibe? The concept is one of the freshest out there though, totally killing my whole originality question from before. I’ll be watching this.
Calawain: With that little info is available I think this will be a winner. The original story is by Masamune Shirou, of Ghost in the Shell among other works, and is also being done by the same studio that did GITS. I’m a big fan of cyberpunk and high tech material like this, and the character designs look solid. Definitely looking forward to it.
Extrange: When I’ve read the description it made me remind of The Golden Age by John C. Wright. Yeah, it exploits a bit of the fame that Ghost in The Shell generated, but that doesn’t mean this won’t rock out. truly a Must See in my list.
Shokkeru: Seems interesting… but why do the female characters on the main site look slightly “thick”? No offense to anyone of course.
Rieuzedx: I like the art, but I’m getting G.I.T.S. vibes, Ghost Hound vibes, Persona vibes…ugh. Unless this one surprises me out of nowhere…it’s all you Igunis.
Possible bloggers: Igunis
Himitsu Top Secret
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.hakusensha.co.jp/himitsu/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Madhouse
Seiyuu: Daisuke Namikawa, Tomokazu Seki, Ai Nonaka
Summary
The story takes place five decades from now, when brain scanners have been perfected to the point that the government can retrieve up to five years’ worth of memories from people’s minds — even if they are dead. The investigators of the National Research Institute of Police Science’s 9th Forensics Laboratory must weigh the ethical choices in the ultimate invasion of privacy as they delve into people’s minds to solve crimes.
Thoughts
Impz: Philosophical science fiction. Wow, it almost sounds delicious. The art style feels really darn queer and Madhouse might really be the right anime company this time. However, Madhouse seems to have so many jobs. I wonder if they are able to manage it.
Crusader:: I’ll put this in the maybe bin.
Igunis: The man…his head is square. SQUARE I SAY. Or are they both men? It has a somewhat interesting concept, but it’s probably a no for me.
Extrange: A possible mind Fuck anime, but only worth seeing if this can reach the level of MPD Psycho.
Shokkeru: Don’t like the character designs so pass on this one.
Rieuzedx: Pass.
Possible bloggers
Toshokan Sensou
Details
Number of episodes: 12
Website: http://www.toshokan-sensou.com/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Production I.G.
Seiyuu: Marina Inoue, Akira Ishida
Summary
Based on a light novel series. In the year 2019, the explosion of information and misinformation became a direct threat to society. In a daring decision, it was decided to create a new government agency dedicated solely to information management. Now some thirty years later, the government still monitors and controls information, suppressing anything they find undesirable, but standing against their abuses of power are the libraries, with their special agents called ‘the book soldiers.
Thoughts
Impz: I am studying media economics in my Master’s degree. Currently, I am taking a course on Information and communication technologies. This is something I will blog. Nuff said.
Crusader:: Well Impz called it.
Igunis: Nerd Alert! Nerd Alert!
Calawain: Definite Read or Die vibes here but without the comedy or cute girls. Concept really doesn’t look interesting to me, but Marina Inoue and Miyuki Sawashiro have really sexy voices…
Lupus: Oh goody an anime about China.
Extrange: No , THIS doesn’t have Read or Die vibes….You know the movie Fahrenheit 451? This is more a war of ideologies and the concept of Information as a commodity, not about horny girls and books. And damn you Impz, you chose the girliest pic possible about the show -.-Y
Shokkeru: Library War eh? Sounds like fun… have fun Impz.
Rieuzedx: I would’ve liked to get in on this one, but “This is something I will blog. Nuff said.” Daddy already got his hands on it.
Possible bloggers: Impz
Wagaya no Oinari-sama.
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.mediaworks.co.jp/contents/oinarisama/index.php
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: ZEXCS
Seiyuu: Yukana, Yuuichi Nakamura, Shizuka Itou
Summary
The thousand year old demon/yokai fox that served as their guardian god for hundred of years, able to use all sort of spells, but has a extremely mischevious personility, playing all sort of pranks, until finally the Mitsuji family sealed it up, until present day, when a situation forced them to free it. After the crisis, it quit its job and became the guardian god of the Takamichi family, extremely smart and curious, it was able to figure out modern world technology, and learn to blend in, but has a personilty of doing as it please, it’s too old to remember it’s original gender, so it has both male and female form. but doesn’t hate the Mitsuiji for sealing it up. She likes the Takamichi brother and will protect them at all cost.
Thoughts
Impz: More fox love? *looks at Extrange*. No. The animation company seems to be more on harem shows, with their recent offerings including H2O, Mamoru-kun and Rental Magica. Nothing impressive in my opinion.
Crusader:: (Pushes Extrange to the front) Guess what Extrange you just got volunteered…. 
Igunis: I don’t generally like gender benders, but the Yokai’s female form is cute. But…unfortunately for me Extrange is totally blogging this ^^.
Calawain: Traps and furries eh? I rarely go for Japanese mysticism like this though so I’ll probably be staying away.
Lupus: Horo > This. Forever and ever.
Extrange: Why Impz looks at me when it’s about furry girls…
Shokkeru: No thanks!
Rieuzedx: Woot! This is either going to be really interesting or complete crap. Either way, I liked the PV and the character designs, so…I’m blogging it. All those that were wanting it done, rejoice! (unless it’s crap and I end up dropping it xD)
Possible bloggers: Rieuzedx
Nijuu Menzou Musume
Details
Number of episodes: 22
Website: http://www.chico-tv.com/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: BONES x Telecom
Seiyuu: Aya Hirano, Rina Satou
Summary
The story revolves around a female thief named Chico, who is the spiritual successor to the Kaijin Niju-Menso (The Fiend with 20 Faces) thief character created by famed suspense and detective novelist Ranpo Edogawa. (Edogawa is a pen name for Taro Hirai; when written in Japanese family-name-first order, it spells out a Japanese pun for the name of the American suspense and detective author “Edgar Allen Poe”)
Thoughts
Impz: Ok, I am not being rational but Chico is hell hot. I am on this one. Now.
Crusader:: Chico is hawt, might be watching and blogging it depending on how the rest of the season pans out.
Igunis: HAHA YES! ANOTHER BONES! *Does his happy dance*. Summary that Impzie put up doesn’t give much. Her pantsu are darn near visible in that preview image though. Just…a…bit…more…
Lupus: *stares at the thighs for 5 minutes*
Extrange: Thief with 20 Faces…is this related with 20 Mensou ni Onegai, the manga made by CLAMP? Anyway, this anime seems to be about this mysterious thief who only steals works of art and sends a card beforehand to announce his next target (sounds familiar?). And poor Chiko, being harassed by the police, by gang members, by oogling blog writers…
Shokkeru: Hirano Aya? Satou Rina? I’m sold.
Rieuzedx: Watch as Rieuzedx gives a suspense/mystery anime a shot again! Then watch as it miserably fails to hold his interest. Expecting good things, doubt I’ll get them though.
Possible bloggers: Crusader
To Love-Ru
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.j-toloveru.com/
Japanese Air Date: April 3rd
Animation company: Xebec
Seiyuu: Akeno Watanabe, Haruka Tomatsu, Sayuri Yahagi
Summary
The story is about Yuuki Rito, a high-school boy who cannot confess to the girl of his dreams, Sairenji Haruna. One day, while he bathes, a mysterious nude girl appears out of nowhere. Her name is Lala and she comes from the planet Deviluke, where she is the heir to the throne. Her father wants her to return to her home planet so she can marry one of the husband candidates, but she decides that she wants to marry Rito in order to stay on Earth. Commander Zastin has been ordered to bring Lala back and has already battled Rito. He reports to the emperor that Rito would be suited to marry Lala, after hearing Rito say that marriage is impossible unless it is with the person you love. With this speech, Lala truly falls in love with Rito and decides that she wants to marry Rito. Comedy resumed with a deal with Rito.
Thoughts
Impz: I don’t live in the Love Hina era anymore. Sorry, no offense. Just no more.
Crusader:: Sounds like a gahnappell, hey Calawain you up for this?
Igunis: Sairenji, unfortunately, is much prettier in the Manga version than the anime. Still, my favorite has always been Lala so I don’t mind. Shokkeru may actually start blogging again if no one else takes this I think. I believe he enjoys the manga as well. However, there’s currently like a hundred chapters out and the manga is still going so the anime is going to be compressed A LOT.
Calawain: From initial looks it bears a lot of similarities to Girls Bravo, and that can be a good thing or a bad thing. I mostly enjoyed Girls Bravo, but it wasn’t that great and I doubt I could sit through another watching of it. This one has a bunch of relatively new sieyuu for the main cast, although from the trailer the girl doing the main heroine has a pretty cute voice. Another harem lovecom that I will at least give a shot, but no promises.
Extrange: If the community complained about the “excessive fanservice” in R+V and Kimiaru, they will die from an heart attack with TLR. In the manga, the girls get constantly naked, whether it’s due to a clothing malfunction, clothes dissolving ooze, beta testing teleporters or just really bad timing…I will watch it anyway, I’m immune to pantsu.
Shokkeru: Okay so what if this is harem? So what if it’s has tons of fanservice? So what if it’s ecchi? So what if there’s no REAL plot? Does that mean it’s a bad series? Maybe but, I still like it. One thing I can say about the show though is that it’s by the same artist as Black Cat I believe and I’ve been a fan of his work ever since I saw Black Cat. The attention he pays to his character designs and especially the outfits is remarkable. I will definitly blog this as long as I can watch it in a native language.
Rieuzedx: ummmmmmmmmmm…I might watch it?
Possible bloggers: Shokkeru(for as long as it remains understandable)
xxxHOLic Kei
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.tbs.co.jp/holic/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Production I.G.
Seiyuu: Jun Fukuyama, Sayaka Ohara
Summary
Yuuko is a witch who grants people’s wishes, but in return the person has to give up something precious. Watanuki Kimihiro, a man who has visions, encounters Yuuko and she promises to get rid of the spirits that torment him. In return Watanuki must work in Yuuko’s shop and help her grant other people’s wishes.
Thoughts
Impz: I didn’t watch the first season. I am not sure if I will pick everything up at one go to watch it though. An original CLAMP work, it will be rather interesting. I am not too sure if I will watch 24 episodes to watch this, so it is out for now.
Crusader:: the First season was okay, and I do like the manga, but I think that Extrange would be better suited for this one seeing as he bears a striking resemblance to that megane kid.
Igunis: Haven’t seen the first series, although my friend has been prodding me to do so. I made a bet with her that if she saw Gurren Lagann, I would watch XXXHolic, but so far neither of us has watched anything.
Calawain: I would probably highly recommend this if I had watched the first season. I have read the first few volumes of the manga and I am really enjoying it, but I have not watched the first season since I’m waiting for it to be released on R1 DVDs.
Extrange:I may look like Watanuki, but I’m not a whiner like him. I’m kinda mad at the XXXHOLiC anime since it doesn’t depict the same relation with Tsubasa: Reservoir Chronicles that the mangas have. But hey, it’s Clamp, so that makes me waitch it anyway.
Rieuzedx: Couldn’t make it through the first series.
Possible bloggers
Kure-nai
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.samidareso.com/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Brains Base
Seiyuu: Miyuki Sawashiro, Aoi Yūki
Summary
16-year-old Shintaro Kurenai is a Mediator - a specialist in settling squabbles between people. Despite his youth and easygoing nature, he is a man of some skills when it comes to protecting both his clients and his client’s interests. And then one day, he is approached by the daughter of a rich and powerful family asking him to be her bodyguard, which somehow ends up with him having a seven-year-old fan, landlord and self-proclaimed fiancé. Shintaro Kurenai finds himself living in run-down tenement with Murasaki Kuhouin (his new 7-year-old apprentice and landlord) and several other eccentric ladies. His childhood friend (Ginko) acts as his Mediator booking agent. Then there is his (adopted) older sister and martial arts teacher, Yuuno, who does not like to see her Kurenai troubled by any of the difficulties of his Mediator assignments. And Yuuno’s younger (7-year-old) sister, Chi-chan (Houdsuki Chidzuru) also seems to take a troubling worry when her ‘onii-chan’ gets beaten up by Yuuno or his assignments.
Thoughts
Impz: This is so awesomely queer that I do not know how to response. This concept is refreshing but I am not too certain about the animation company. According to Psgels, the anime is done by the “director of Red Garden, who also did a bunch of random episodes for Ergo Proxy, Bakumatsu Kikansetsu Irohanihoheto, Freedom, Master Keaton, sola and Zegapain and he produced Millenium Actress”. I am not too sure myself though. I will definitely catch the first episode.
Crusader:: Sounds like a cluster fuck, might watch just for shits and giggles, any takers?
Igunis: I remember reading some of the manga but ended up completely weirded out after a couple of chapters. It’s just…strange.
Lupus: I am sold on the smiling loli on the website’s character page.
Rieuzedx: I’m not feeling the character designs. The PV was kinda interesting looking though. Wait and see, wait and see.
Possible bloggers
S-A ~Special-A~
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://special-a.jp/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: AIC & Gonzo
Seiyuu: Jun Fukuyama, Yuko Goto
Summary
Hikari Hanazono, the main character, has always been second to Kei Takishima. While Hikari considers Kei a rival and somewhat of a friend, Kei loves Hikari. Everyone knows this, but she is too dense to notice. Their wrestling loving fathers first introduced them to one another when they were 6 years old. Assuming that she was the best in wrestling, young Hikari challenged Kei to a wrestling match only to be thoroughly defeated by him. Ever since that fateful incident, Hikari swore to beat Kei in school grades, a sporting event - anything. To do this she has enrolled in the same school as Kei since elementary. Now she attends Hakusenkan, an ultra elite school, that costs her carpenter father a lot of money. Hikari and Kei are the top two students in the school, with Kei holding firmly to that number one position.
Thoughts
Impz: Blogging, blogging and blogging this. Don’t anyone dare to take this away from me.
Crusader:: Put the gun down Impz…no one is going to take your series, but I might watch it sounds sufficiently saccharine.
Igunis: Hm…I dunno, all these school life type series are getting repetitive for me. Have fun, Impzie.
Calawain: One of the few shoujo manga I’ve read, and the premise of it was pretty interesting, it’s just that it got dragged out way too long and I started skipping bunches of chapters. A couple of my favorite seiyuu are in this one as main roles (Yuko Goto and Jun Fukuyama) as well. Gonzo is in on this but in cooperation with AIC, which in the past produced Seto no Hanayome which was an awesome show. I’ll give this one a whirl and see where it goes.]
Reverse Vampire: It might be interesting, and again my otaku friend would be interested. I have not started with the manga but then again, it might be different from the rest.
Extrange: Shoujo School Romance mixed with a cold main guy and a violent main girl. >.< So tottaly going to see this, since I’ve devoured the manga chapters.
Rieuzedx: “Impz: Blogging, blogging and blogging this. Don’t anyone dare to take this away from me.” /hate. Watching for sure.
Possible bloggers: Impz
Junjou Romantica
Details
Number of episodes: 24
Website: http://www.suzukisan.info/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Studio Deen
Seiyuu: Daisuke Kishio, Hikaru Hanada
Summary
Misaki is suddenly having some unexpected and odd problems. What started as a need for some college entrance exam tutoring has somehow led him to being romanced by a suave older man who also happens to be his big brother’s best friend. Confused by all of his brand new emotions, Misaki struggles to deal with his suddenly very odd life. And if that wasn’t enough, his suitor, Usami, has plenty of issues of his own. A man-child who decorates his room in giant teddy bears and toys, Usami is a famous novelist who also writes steamy boys’ love novels on the side. When Misaki cracks open one of these books and reads sentences like “Misaki licks every inch of Usami’s hot body”…well, let’s just say that all hell breaks loose. And if one couple isn’t enough for you, Junjo Romantica focuses on three different sets of lovers, each with their own compelling stories.
Thoughts
Impz: Yaoi show! Well, my girlfriend is going bonkers over the existence of a 24 episode shounen-ai show. I personally wonder if I can get past my skepticism over yaoi shows simply for fangirls and actually watch it.
Crusader:: Hey Briar you got this one right? :p
Igunis: Nose Goes *touches nose*
Calawain: Sorry, I don’t do serious yaoi. Jokes in Genshiken are about as far as I go.
Extrange: *looks instead to the Yuri DVD shelves*
Rieuzedx: <.< NO!
Possible bloggers
The Tower of Druaga ~the Aegis of URUK~
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.druaga-anime.com/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Gonzo
Seiyuu: Yui Horie, Minori Chihara, Fumiko Orikasa
Summary
It is said that every few years, there is what’s known as the “Summer of Anu.” During that summer, thanks to the divine protection of the sky-god Anu, all of the demons in the tower lose their power. The country of Uruk has begun an invasion of the tower in order to suppress the demons. They’ve built up positions inside the tower, with their sights set on getting to the upper levels. The Uruk army knows that this is the third Summer of Anu-a perfect time to launch a mission to suppress the monster Druaga once and for all. The army soldiers aren’t the only ones in the tower, though. An entire city called Meskia has formed inside the tower’s first floor. It plays host not just to soldiers, but also to adventurers who have heard rumors about a legendary treasure called the Blue Crystal Rod, which is said to rest at the very top of the tower. With all these different groups in the mix, each with its own agenda, one can only guess how things will play out during this unusual summer.
Thoughts
Impz: RPG adapted series? Sorry for my cynicism, but I have never seen a single RPG adapted anime that actually looks good and works well. Please inform me of any that actually did a decent job other than .hack. This, despite the beautiful graphics, looks no different from most of the previous junk out there. I am not optimistic.
Crusader:: The only RPGs I care about are those from Russia, infinitely more fun and splody.
Igunis: Animation and graphics look amazing. I could care less about the story now. Haha, just kidding. Although I am for sure watching this, it has to be ridiculously good in order to replace my top two blog picks, Soul Eater and Blassreiter.
Calawain: Gonzo at the helm of an RPG adaptation? Also, it’s an online RPG I’ve never heard of, the character designs are ugly, and the seiyuu cast makes me go “meh.” Hooooooo, this one doesn’t have a good chance at all.
Extrange: Ack, Gonzo. Me and Gonzo is a Love-Hate relationship, and I think the cycle is set on Hate mode for this season.
Shokkeru: Too much fantasy for me. I’ll get bored to tears watching probably.
Rieuzedx: I was hyped up about this show, thoughts of FMA/Scrapped Princess/12 Kingdoms, etc running rampant through my head. Then I watched a PV with actual anime footage, and while it still looks pretty good, there was something about it that just came across as “off” to me. Blogging it anyway, but only if the first episode or two gets rid of my current doubts (and Igunis lets me :P).
Possible bloggers: Igunis / Rieuzedx
Itazura na Kiss
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://itakiss-anime.jp/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: TMS Entertainment
Seiyuu: Daisuke Hirakawa, Nana Mizuki
Summary
It was love at first sight for Aihara Kotoko as top student Irie Naoki delivers a speech on the first day of high school. After 2 years of secret admiration, “I don’t want it” is the rejection she gets when she plucks up enough courage to hand him a love letter. Dejected, Kotoko vows to give him up. By a twist of fate, Kotoko’s house collapses; her dad and her put up at a friend’s place, who happens to be Naoki’s father. And thus, life with Naoki begins and Kotoko’s love for Naoki rekindles again. Much laughter ensues when scatterbrain Kotoko makes her countless advances (supported by Naoki’s wacky mum) on ice-cold Naoki who hates girls and is a genius at practically everything from studies to sports. The story spans over 10 years where we see their relationship slowly development despite their many differences and romantic hurdles. This series was such a hit that it was made into a 9-episode Japanese live-action dorama.
Thoughts
Impz: I really love the concept. I am a sucker for such shoujo comedy anime, despite being somewhat standard fare. I will follow this for sure. I do hope that TMS will do a decent job with this series since it seems to have more bad series animated than good ones. It did make Buzzer Beater, beautiful graphics but absolutely crap series.
Crusader:: I am a sucker for shoujo…
Igunis: I am a sucker for shounen…oh wait-
Calawain: Yet another shoujo? Wow there are almost as many of these as there are random shounen this season. This doesn’t rise to the level of shoujo that I watch, and it has a weak voice cast (Daisuke Hirakawa, who did Makoto from School Days, voices the lead which is freaking hilarious). I’ll leave it to others.
Extrange: The concept of spawning the story over 10 years is interesting. In spite of liking shoujo, this doesn’t seem as a first pick for me though.
Rieuzedx: Blogging if the first couple of episodes are interesting. Hell, Impz is already doing S-A, I gotta have something to break up the “pow pow” action in Nabari no Ou that doesn’t involve a Fox-manchick.
Possible bloggers: Rieuzedx
Neo Angelique Abyss
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.gamecity.ne.jp/neoangelique/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Yumeta Company
Seiyuu: Aya Endo, Daisuke Ono, Ryohei Kimura
Summary
A girl named Angelique attends an all-girls school wanting to become a doctor to help people. However, creatures called “Thanatos” that drain the life out of things appear. With that, our heroine, with various other guardian, attempts to dispel these malicious creatures.
Thoughts
Impz: My yaoi-loving girlfriend has been hyped up by the knowledge of such an anime. Me? I do not waste time watching something simply for bishies. No go.
Crusader:: Looks like gahnappell, I’d rather study.
Igunis: Chracter designs looks like that uhh, Welber Sisters thing Briar posted on. Ff it’s an all girl school, then how come all I see are men behind the sole girl in the preview image 0_0. I sense a trap.
Calawain: I’ll unground the U.S. B-2 fleet for this one. Kaboom.
Extrange: Bishie reverse Harem….no.
Rieuzedx: No to the nth degree. Or the oth…yeah, that’s more like it.
Possible bloggers
Kyouran Kazoku Nikki
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.enterbrain.co.jp/fb/
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Nomad
Seiyuu: Ayumi Fujimura, Kana Hanazawa, Rina Satou
Summary
The novels depict the not-so-normal life of a “family” that includes a catgirl “mother,” a lion “son,” a living land-combat android weapon “son,” a jellyfish-like otherworldly “daughter,” and a hapless 27-year-old military officer as their “father.” This motley “family” was assembled as part of the Imperial Japanese Anti-Paranormal Phenomena Section’s Special Operations Forces to save Earth in 2063.
Thoughts
Impz: Ermm ok? I do not know but this does not feel like something I will watch after 2-3 episodes. It seems good for a short laugh nevertheles.
Crusader:: More shits and giggles is always good, but probably not worth blogging.
Igunis: I am totally following this through to the end. See you on the other side.
Extrange:Do I get Mahoromatic vibes from this? And having catgirls have sold me instantly. Please, make the android daughter a meido….
Rieuzedx: How did this anime suddenly latch on to me without me noticing? I have to watch the first ep or two, but deep down I think I might want to blog this. WTF…why did I admit that?
Possible bloggers: Rieuzedx
Amatsuki
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://amatsuki.com/
Japanese Air Date: April 4th
Animation company: Studio Deen
Seiyuu: Jun Fukuyama, Koji Yusa, Romi Paku
Summary
Based on the shoujo manga by Takayama Shinobu, serialised in Comic Zero-Sum. History isn`t Tokidoki`s strong subject. He`s even forced to do make-up work at a high-tech history museum to bring up his failing grades. After losing an eye to a virtual reality monster in an Edo-period simulation, he finds himself unable to leave the game. Could it be real?
Thoughts
Impz: It’s a very good concept, but it’s Studio Deen. Sorry guys, I just do not think Studio Deen can do this anime any justice. I know it’s rather unwarranted, but they do not seem to have a huge budget.
Crusader:: Edo-Japan is boring as heck compared to the more interesting civil war. I’ll pass.
Igunis: Night at the Museum Anime-style. Except this time there are no Huns, Sacajawea, or the Big Talking Head thing. I’ll probably read the manga before checking out the anime.
Extrange: Yay! Amatsuki is another of my mangas that I wanted an anime from. It’s like a Edo version of .Hack with a Yokai thematic, featuring Tengu’s, demo wolf girls, androginous mikos and a several others Japanese monsters. And again Impz, you show your failure on image editing by cutting of the head of the main guy…
Rieuzedx: It’s all you Extrange…prove to me that this won’t be .hack mixed with Ayakashi Ayashi.
Possible bloggers Extrange
Blassreiter
Details
Number of episodes: Unknown
Website: http://www.nitroplus.co.jp/pc/lineup/an_01/index.php
Japanese Air Date:
Animation company: Gonzo
Seiyuu: Masaya Matsukaze, Shizuka Itou
Summary
Set in the near-future, in a town in Germany. There have been incidents of dead people coming back to life, transforming into “grotesque shadows”, and attacking people. Living people show up who can transform themselves into demons whenever they want. They used to be regular humans, but when they gained this power to transform, people rejected them and called them demons. But they still use their powers, each for his own reason. However, they cannot deny their fate: to fight in a deadly battle royal with others who have turned into demons.
Thoughts
Impz: Wow, wow, wow. I am not watching this at all, but the graphics and CG looks pretty much insane. This is pure action eye-candy at the very least.
Crusader: Did some one say Germany, hmmm… supernatural, unless there are soldaten and panzers I might pass. Tossing this in the maybe bin.
Igunis: Be thankful, Impz was about to leave this one out before I sent him a summary. This looks like one of GONZO’s better efforts and with a little bit of luck, the awesomeness of the trailer will continue throughout the whole series. Hopefully there are more than two Blassreiters though, as I’ve only seen two designs so far.
Rieuzedx: I hate 3D almost 99% of the time. I do have to admit that it looks pretty good in the PV for this anime though. Checking it out, but not blogging it.
Possible bloggers: Igunis
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This line up look really good, defiantly looking forward to reading some of these reviews.
Glad to see xxxholic on the list, from I can gather they are going to try to intertwine it with Tsubasa.
Final thought: Does anyone know when Haruhi Season 2 coming out, I need my injection of Haruhi
Omar
P.S. If you’re not going to do xxxholic can I review for you?
I’m in love with Toshokan Sensou just from looking at the character designs. And it’s a Noitamina show! Nothing in that timeslot can go wrong!
I’m going to hate myself for saying this but whatever you guys blog I will watch. I’m just too lazy to pick anime out for myself.
Except for the GAR Meido! I just have to watch that! Oh and Code Geass too…
Edit: Adding Macross, 1 Fanservice and 1 Furry Anime
WHERE IS HARUHI!?
XD
great previews guys. one of the best points of an aggregate blog like T.H.A.T.
Lots of interesting animes are coming next season..
The ones that I’m looking forward to are Vampire Knight, D.C. II S.S.~Da Capo II Second Season~ (I don’t know why am I watching this..), S-A ~Special-A~, and Itazura na Kiss..
And of course, I’ll be reading the reviews here..
@Omar Ali: Send a summary of your writing to the blog. You can use our contact form. We will be glad for anyone who is willing to blog. However, we do want to know a few details first before anything. Email us and we can converse more. ^+^
@yFantgirl: and you will be likely to see it blog here. By me. No, I am not a nerd.
@Gravmech: LOL, you gonna have to pick the right person then. Crusader does mecha/war, Calawain does harem, I do shoujo/philosophical, Extrange does manga adaptations, Igunis does shounen and RV does shoujo too. Find the right author for your choice =3
@Korosora: Being a total pain as usual of course. I want my nyoro~ That’s our aim: to make an extremely comprehensive preview so that it fits everyone’s needs!
@Setsukyie: That’s great! I think I am going to look forward for most of the shows in your list except DC…I no love siscon.
Although I may prove myself wrong I think some possibilities for me are:
1) Vampire Knight
2) Special A
3) Itazura na Kiss
4) DC SSII..part 2 (since I did part 1 might as well..)
5) To Love Ru - I hated the manga, but I liked Black CatT_T; I dunno we’ll see what happens
Everything else I give the 2 episode try, after episode 2 if it still sucks it’s not getting on the list.
Wow what a weak season o_o;
… Why are people trying to force a connection between Black Cat and To-Love-RU? Don’t get false hopes because they are way diferent kind of animes…although you will get some nostalogy when you the Golden Darkness character is introduced.. (Yay, a Eve clone! In Goth suit!)
[...] values factor heavily in my decision to blog about a series. I recommend heading to some of the more extensive lists out there for additional information, since I’ll just be posting my impressions. I also [...]
Lots of possible shows to watch this coming season. Too many to think that I’ll actually manage to watch them all. Here’s my “I’m Interested in These” list.
S.A. is at the top list. A definite will watch. Looking forward to your blog entries, Impz. I’ll be reading them.
Vampire Knight is also a definite will watch. Hope you choose to blog it as well, Impz.
Other shows in descending likelihood that I’ll watch them:
Monochrome Factor
Nabari no Ou
Junjou Romantica
Itazura na Kiss
Neo Angelique Abyss
Amatsuki
Himitsu Top Secret
Woooow, thanks for making this list! I’m excited there seems to be lots of interesting shows this time. Now if I can just stop reading manga long enough to watch them…
@Extrange: The only reason I’m relating To-Love-Ru to Black Cat is solely because they’re drawn by the same artist. While the story is written by someone else this time, I’ll have to watch this only because I’m a fan of Kentaro Yabuki’s artwork. But even the story has a few glimpses of humor and awesomeness.
P.S. Come on! DC isn’t that bad… there was no signs of siscon in the anime at all (I think ._.;).
Darn, looks like I’m going to have to clean up some space after all.
Awfully excited to see Impz blogging S-A! Also looking forward to seeing Vampire Knight animated, even if currently the manga has taken a somewhat unpleasant turn for me.
Also somewhere on the list:
Bus Gamer
Allison to Lillia
Code Geass II
Nabari no Ou
Soul Eater
Crystal Blaze
RD Sennou Chousashitsu
Nijuu Menzou Musume
Oooh. Next season is a good season for fangirls, it looks like. XD
I’ve been keeping up with the manga for a couple of these: Nabari no Ou is a great, dark story with characters that manage to defy the usual shounen stereotypes. Amatsuki has a fabulously twisted plot for something so deceptively simple. Junjou Romantica can give into the occasional yaoi cliche, but it’s funny as hell most of the time. And Kyou Kara Maou, despite all appearances, can deliver some really good political intrigue.
Also, xxxHOLiC season two? Score! I hope they got a better budget, because season one’s animation was awful at points.
A few of these would be really cool to blog. … what’s your protocol for taking on bloggers, again?
Oh Becky, just email me and I will tell you personally ^^. I can’t reply to the others yet since I am going to have a meeting with my lecturer and fellow tutors. ^+^
I will promise to do so later =/
Toshokan Sensou: An anime series by Production I.G where the character design doesn’t immediately make me think “reanimated zombie”.
I have been impatiently waiting for the 3rd Season of Kyou Kara Maoh. It is very entertaining and the characters are hilarious. It may be into the yaoi-ish theme, and i must say that it makes my hair stand on one end as well, but the comedy is just worth watching. Despite it all, the struggles of the main character, his desire to make a world living in peace and co-existence, the politics and all other complications in living a double life makes it a good one to follow. I really hope someone would at least try and blog this one. This is the last season of the Anime. The manga has already ended the story and the anime follows the manga closely.
Macross Frontier… I am a selective mecha fan and among those I have enjoyed watching is the macross saga. I am so looking forward to the new adventures of Alto-Hime in this one.
More power to the team on the next set of anime to blog.
@impz- i checked on animenewsnetwork.com and i know about SA. it should be airing in april and has 24 eps so far. but i absolutely will love this anime because the manga i really funny. i love it and i’m looking forward angelique.
So much anime…GAH! I hate school. Period.
Code Geass R2 is the only good anime here. I thought School Days would have a Summer Days OVA of some sort for Spring.
thanks for this post.
Crusader says: “Hey Briar you got this one right? :p ”
I’ve got to ask…. WHY am I supposed to get a yaoi show? *blinks* I like bishies and all, but… Not to mention that pic is seriously… s.. s… s….
Am speechless. I think I would rather watch Nijuu Menzou Musume.
Igunis says: “Chracter designs looks like that uhh, Welber Sisters thing Briar posted on.”
I think Sisters of Wellber’s character designs are better. Especially for the girl. I don’t like the character design for the girl, although the guys are totally bishies.
This season looks a lot stronger than the last. I’m hoping that there’s stuff to watch, because otherwise I’ll be in an anime desert again, like I’ve been for the last three months.
Looking forward to more of Crusader’s vitriolic assessments for the coming season.
Good mecha season makes me happy.^^
If I had time to watch any of these series, I’d most likely be interested in “Allison to Lillia”. “Nabari no Ou” should make JC redeem itself. (Why did you kill the “Kimikiss” anime?!) Other than that, there’s not much else for me to say.
Impz
You are not aware of Deen’s history, are you? (A good amount of my favorite series are made by Deen.)
Allison to Lillia and Crystal Blaze seems interesting…
Not one of these really jumps at me… I hope some initial blog entries get me interested. Else I might be spending the spring on just Shugo Chara and perhaps catching up on a bunch of previous series I never had time for. ^^;
Ahh, so much longer than the Winter Lineup, but this lineup hope they don’t suck. If they suck, I’m going back to reality.
>Stripey will for the sis-con compels him
Yes, I will. Boy, I love punishing myself XD
A rather impressive lineup, especially when compared to the Winter season series. I ran out of fingers and toes trying the count the number of new series I’m gonna try out.
Does anyone know if Gundam 00 would be put on hold while Code Geass R2 is showing?
You guys need to diversify in taste a little bit.
Oh. Forgot to mention something else.
“Poor Chiko, being harassed by the police, by gang members, by oogling blog writers…”
Unless I find a witter quote than this, this is my quote of the year. XP
@TheBigN: I don’t find us that similar in tastes. For example, I tend to like Seinen which would make Impz vomit and faint from all the blood and sex. On the other hand , some of his Shoujos would make me slam my head into a concrete wall from all the bishieness and undertone yaoi.
@Bata-kun: That’s the level of wittyness you get from spending the childhood playing Monkey Island and reading Terry Pratchett.
@Bata-kun
Yes, Impz and I had this conversation a week ago, and I tried to tell him of the many shows made by Deen that I enjoyed like Fate/Stay Night, Kenshin, and YamiBou. However, he would not relent and held to his position :p
@Nekonron
Yes, Gundam 00 is going to stop at 24 or 25 episodes at take a 6 month break while Code Geass is running. It will then return upon the completion of Code Geass for the remaining 25 or so episodes.
@TheBigN
Mmmmm to be honest there’s actually a pretty huge difference in taste amongst us. You have some similarities and crossovers, but generally we have very different tastes. Trust me, because I’m always making fun of/flaming Impz over the crap he watches. However, some shows are just good no matter your taste, so we may all lavish praise upon how a series looks. Plus in a preview it’s really hard to say lots of nasty things about a show, it’s just kind of general thoughts on what we see.
Is is just me, or does the main character of Nabari no Ou look a bit like the main character of Persona 3? And am I the only one who sees the cover of volume 5 in the top right corner of the Nabari picture when looking at the monitor from keyboard-level?
Thanks for the great preview. Based on this, I see a number of shows I’ll be interested in watching: Nabari no Ou, Maid Guy, Crystal Blaze, RD Sennou Chousashitsu, Toshokan Sensou, Nijuu Menzou Musume, To Love-Ru, S-A ~Special-A~ and Blassreiter all sounds interesting enough to check out. If I ever finish the first season of xxxHolic I might give Kei a chance too.
@escaru: Are you speaking of some kind of faint watermark in the picture? Probably , you monitor settings makes it easier to see it. But it’s true that something is there…
About the Minato Arisato similarity (the name of the P3 main character in the manga version), it seems to be only coincidence; As far as I know and searched, there is no connection between the mangaka and P3.
Wow that was awesomely comprehensive, thanks for the roundup. You did reinforce my feeling that I’m the only person in the (western) world who cares that a new Macross is coming, but I’m sure that’s far from true. There are enough people out there watching Gundam 00 that I’m sure the season can support it. Don’t care that much about Geass though for some reason.
Alison + Lilia looks really intriguing, and Golgo 13 had better be cool. I hope at least a couple of these BONES shows get subbed, even if they’re dumb I love looking at their stuff.
Awesome overview! Thank ya’ll very much for putting it together. I’m actually really excited by several series coming out this season, a nice change from the last. This will be fun~
I’m not sure if it’s a watermark per se, but if you’re viewing this on a laptop and tilt your monitor back almost horizontally, it should appear pretty clearly.
Sorry if there was any confusion; I wasn’t suggesting any connections between Nabari no Ou and Persona, I was just commenting that the anime character designs harken back a bit to those of P3.
“Sorry for my cynicism, but I have never seen a single RPG adapted anime that actually looks good and works well. Please inform me of any that actually did a decent job other than .hack.”
One word: Popolocrois. Especially the 1998 is a charming love-story, where you’d hardly suspect that it originally came from an RPG.
In fact, Gonzo is perfect for adapting an RPG, as they often like to insert their own storylines in favour of the original material. In the same way, they turned the MMORPG Master of Epic into quite a succesful parody-series.
Yes! ISWAK as an anime! Must see! Thanks for the line up… ^_^
This season feels abit weak. A few good ones here and there (Macross F, Code Geass R2, etc) and others seem really random. Expecting more from Summer and Fall. orz
Lots of show to watch then. Didn´t think it would be this many but oh well. I´ll have something to do during the summer now so I´m happy
Looking forward to reading about the episode bloging though. To see how many of the fanservice shows will get hated or flamed or loved.
Espacially Macross Frontier, except for some bad lines the music was awesome so this looks promising.
THe new season looks great! Can’t wait for Code geass (C.C. didn’t die, I KNOW she didn’t die, she can’t die, she’s my favorite character….), and some of the actions look really promising. Though I am still waiting to see the gushy romance of the season (there always is one, da capo dosen’t count since the guy is ugly and there’s no way I’ll be watching it, and special A dosen’t count wither since the girl is such a moron and dosen’t realize that the guy is in love with her that there;s no way it’ll turn romantic enough to be gushy even though I really hope it would because he likes her enough to eat her horrible cooking and that’s really really sweet). BUt wait, why does somethihg feel like it’s missing? ….
…
…
HARUHI SAMA! YUKI! they aren’t here! Why???????
don’t tell me they are cancelled, please…. what on earth is kyoani doing?
You left out Chi’s Sweet Home which is my most anticipated title right now.
http://www.tv-tokyo.co.jp/anime/chissweet/
Other than I guess I’ll be checking out Code Geass R2, Allison & Lillia, and Library Wars. Maybe Kaiba too (I actually really like the character designs).
Wow so many series.
Of course since I read the mangas I am interested in Special A and Vampire Knight.
Although the most recent revelations in the latter seriously make me cringe.
But it makes me really happy to know that Gonzo are in on Special A. I’ve liked a lot of their releases.
I gotta agree with Impz on Nabari no Ou. J.C Staff!!!!!!!! The character designs alone already have me drooling. Maybe it will keep me occupied whilst I wait for Funimation to release Ghost Hunt over here. I swear its going to kill me to wait for fall.
@Briar. I know what you mean I haven’t really been keeping up with anime at all. Save for Saiunkoku Monogatari.
But I have been devouring mangas like a demon. Ask poor Laboosh. She asked for a list of mangas I’ve been reading recently and probably wished she hadn’t it was so long.
Toshokan Sensou, might be worth checking out since it is Production I.G
Nijuu Menzou Musume, might have to check this out too since its Bones. Again I like a lot of their stuff.
I hope season 2 of Haruhi Suzumiya comes out soon too. The sooner its out and done the sooner I get more FMP! To be fair I like Haruhi too, but I want to have my cake and eat it. I also adore FMP. I want more of Seki as Sosuke. Or Chris Patton. I watched the Rugby episode of Fumoffu again the other day. Patton nails it. I laughed as hard as I did the first time. That episode is a classic.
Besides if Haruhi 2 doesn’t come out soon, Impz might go into Tsuruya withdrawal.
Eh I can’t type anymore, its late and my brain is shutting down. Which is news to my brain since its not quite sure it actually booted up this morning to begin with.
is it only me or does it seem like there is a lot more better shows spring season than winter? In winter, I only have persona, saiunmono and that is it. Seeing the preview reviews, I probably have about 8 anime series..definitely looking forward to blassreiter, code geass, vampire knight and special A. Hmmm..perfect excuse for senioritis!
Actually in hindsight the low anime bulk in winter works better for me, since i have swimming, and when swimming is over there is anime =)
What ill be watching:
Code Geass s2
Blassreiter
Neo Angelique
Macross Frontier
Maybe some others
Character design is the most important to me…
Impz, not liking Code Geass? I thought hes a fan of green haired lolis….
@metaloid: C.C. isn’t a loli. She is a walking LEGENDARY ass.
Another fan of Wright’s Golden Age trilogy? Excellent. Everyone should be obligated to read those books; the sheer volume of brilliant ideas is almost overwhelming.
And, are we in agreement that, for as nice a fast-bomber as the Mosquito was, the P-51D Mustang was the greatest plane ever made?
@Erias
There were many great planes during the War, from the superb Corsair, sweet P-51D, the workhorse FW-190, but we all have favorites mine is the good old Il-2. Heavily armed and armored, and the idea of doing strafing runs on hapless targets is most appealing.
Ah, a fan of the Flying Tank, are you?
xxxholic and Code Geass for me. Depending on how people review I’ll probably pick up one or two more things. Haruhi too if it come out. Maybe Vampire Knight, I read the manga for a bit. Think I stopped because the scans were such horrible quality I couldn’t follow it
Just wow… *head explodes from too much anime*
I also never expected there would be so much ‘future-Japan’ in one season. I’m totally looking forward to:
- Vampire Knight
- Special A
- Kyou Kara Maou
- Zettai Karen Children (as long as there’s no lolicon romance)
- Nabari no Ou (very funny, not afraid to make fun of BL and definitely not your typical shounen XD)
- RD Sennou Chousashitsu
- Wagaya no Oinari-sama (*hopes there’s no ecchi* looking forward to the male form…)
- Kyouran Kazoku Nikki (this sounds interesting, as long as there not too much ecchi in this one too…)
- Himitsu Top Secret (can’t tell if that’s a guy or girl, but concept sounds interesting regardless…)
Rie Kugimiya is voicing the male lead in Nabari no ou….Wth??D:
@Extrange: But we can still see her in loli getups rite?
@Crusader regarding Golgo and his M-16.
Remember Punisher?
As for the shows, I think they are all fairly interesting but I don’t understand why so many of you decide on anticipating a show merely on premise alone. I will never get that. I always pick up a lot of shows that is at least execute well for me. Maybe I’m just much less picky than most anime viewers. I can watch magical girl and the most bloodthirsty adult show the next. No problem.
[...] so utterly foreign compared to the norm, that he’s regularly shunned by anime fans. The few spring previews I’ve read reveal as much. Ironically though, Yuasa and Kaiba represent everything [...]
: O
well i’m excited about vampire knight ,code geass, kind of Itazura na Kiss, special a…but i dont really want it to ruin the manga :(, Monochrome Factor…,maybe???, Nabari no Ou , aannnddd bus gamer : )
they keep changing manga to anime…. sighhh
Nice to meet you. It is smile.
The blog of “Japan Animation mania” to introduce Anime of Japan was started.
Please come to see at any time.
And, please link to my site.
It comes ..then..
[...] forward to it.As far as the comment in the title about ninjas and fox-manchicks, go check out the Spring 2008 preview, where I added my thoughts to the series. You’ll understand the ninjas and fox-manchicks [...]
here is 2 more that will have a third season
shakugan no shana
zero no tsukaima
wow!! so many animes. weee!! i hope can see many of them.i like yaoi and shounen ai, and i hope your girlfriend can make a summary about the series she will see. o.o i hope to see:
nabari no ou
Vampires Knigth
Monchrome factor
Neo Angelique
Himitsu Top Secret
Jonjou romàntica ( i hope will be like the manga in all)
kyo kara maou andddd, mmm maybe Itazura Na Kiss.
Can you tell me a japanese channel name, when i can see this anime? mmm maybe i can see them in internet? please? i will wait your answer.
AHHH!! They’re FINALLY making an anime of Itazura na Kiss!! My FAVORITE Taiwanese show (It Started With a Kiss). It’s been a while since the manga came out, I never thought the day would come. Now, I’m just waiting for Hana Kimi anime to come out and my anime-loving life will be complete.
And I’m TOTALLY going to watch Vampire Knight and maybe S.A. and Toshokan Sensou sounds interesting. Thanks, guys!!
[...] of their pictures as well) to figure out which shows look interesting to me. Make sure you visit them or someone else for a more complete [...]
[...] of upcoming series, thus saving me lots of time, you could turn your attention to the summaries here while I go steal borrow their pictures [...]
I can’t believe Monochrome Factor actually looks so infinitely different from the manga drawings.
Ah well…I just might give Nijuu Mensou Musume and To-Love-Ru a try, and possibly Kanokon even for additional guilty pleasure, since I don’t watch those too much.
I doubt I need to say much about Code Geass, though, except that I enjoyed the first series. With the myriad of characters, I’m hoping Sunrise does it well and right with the pacing of the episodes, though.
Others I might just check out:
-Vampire Knight
-Soul Eater
Anyway, *nice* insight on the upcoming series.
[...] the credit goes to THAT Anime Blog for the info, but here are the Spring animes I’d like to see, assuming all of them get [...]
[...] anime that’s airing this Spring, go take a look at T.H.A.T Anime Blog’s preview! Click here for the [...]
[...] THAT’s Spring 2008 Preview (seriously): Set in the near-future, in a town in Germany. There have been incidents of dead people coming back [...]
[...] THAT Animeblog [...]
[...] better than I could hope to do. So head on over to the season guides I thoroughly recommend @ THAT Animeblog, Tenkai Seiha, Memento and Star Crossed Anime Blog. I’m sure hashihime and Omni will come up [...]
On Nabari no Ou, you had me with “Tsundere Samurai Girl”…
@Ichigo69: Should I also mention she’s blonde with long pigtails?
Everything will be made of fail! I’m telling you people this right now since everything is made from Japan; the about-face of American culture.
Maybe shows like Lord Nabari, Vampire Knight, Monochrome Factor, Crystal Blaze, Special A, and The Tower of Druaga. Maybe even Kure-nai.
Other than that, after the end of the winter season, I go in with the lowest expectations possible. Those shows who play the “lowest common denominator” cards will get theirs in bold neon letters.
@Slightly Bald Wizard: I hope that wasn’t trolling. Because saying it will because it’s from Japan is paradoxical….
[...] or spring preview or I’d have to kill him. This preview uses pretty much the same format as the Spring one did, I copied the code template. However, I did add two things- next to the production studio I [...]
It’s so amazing how you find out the true character of Asian women. They pretend to be so innocent and kind; always making peace signs, smiley faces and big eyes, when actually they are just as the hentai anime girls are portrayed. Behind closed doors they are nas*y bi**hes who sleep with anyone who wants them. Always wishing they could look like women with “naturally” big boobs and butts, OR trying to be white (putting blonde hair and coloured contacts). Before I used to think they were just as cool and polite as they pretended to be, but I was GREATLY mistaken. Although not all of them are that way (don’t get me wrong) but 99.9% of them are. That’s why I lost all interest in their culture. I never want to be friend with two face idiots like them. Later!
Oh yeah…YAOI is the best! Some YURI, but YAOI kills it.
las series , comics y mangas me encantan soy fanatica de todo eso jajaja no paro de verlos y soy dibujante jajaja aun soy chica no soy una adulta bueno chau besos p.s: soy fanatica de junjou romatica.