Column
Archives

Filters
All Anime Manga Novels Games Music Merch Events Industry People Live-Action Korean
Text-only Compact View
Text-only List View
Text-only Grid View
List View with Images
Grid View with Images
column

This Week in Anime - Fantasy Football

Are you ready for some football? No, not that kind - Coop and Lucas are talking about the football you actually play with your feet. ― Are you ready for some football? No, not that kind - Coop and Lucas are talking about the football you actually play with your feet. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warni...
column

This Week in Anime - Artsy-Fartsy

Is anime art? Where does the line between "art" and "pretentiousness" get drawn? Or is all art quite useless? Sylvia and Chris explore these erudite issues. ― Is anime art? Where does the line between "art" and "pretentiousness" get drawn? Or is all art quite useless? Sylvia and Chris explore these erudite issues. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are n...
column

This Week in Mobile Games - CTW CEO Ryuichi Sasaki Talks the Advantages of Browsers in the Anime Game Wars

How does CTW adapt anime into games? What's the curse that hit the Steam release of Granblue Fantasy? Josh has the answers! ― Hello, and welcome once more to another installment of This Week in Mobile Games, your actually-biweekly look at the latest in gaming on phones, tablets, and other mobile devices. In our first installment, I noted that while the line between mobile games and "regular" games on...
column

Answerman - What's Really Happening With The Crunchyroll Store Delistings?

The loss of a true one-stop shop for anime fans hurts the industry as a whole, and a drive to cut inventory costs may be to blame. ― Anime fans ask: I've been following some worrying developments with the Crunchyroll Store lately and wanted to get your take on what's happening. You might have seen the news that the Crunchyroll Store is allegedly pulling low-selling in-stock inventory items. Word has...
column

This Week in Games - Living the Tomodachi Life

Jean-Karlo looks at Tomodachi Life's new lease on...well, life. Plus, those "quality of life" changes to DQVII Reimagined. ― Welcome back, folks! Major news: I finally did it. Seven years. Two consoles. Three games and expansions. Over 443 hours. Four Welsh catgirls. I have finally finished the mainline Xenoblade Chronicles trilogy. Sure, I still have Xenoblade Chronicles X waiting in the wings, but ...
column

This Week in Anime - Even Princess Kaguya Livestreams Nowadays!

Coop and Sylvia check out the many iterations of the classic Japanese folktale, "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter," from Isao Takahata's final film to Netflix's new tech-flavored Cosmic Princess Kaguya! ― Coop and Sylvia check out the many iterations of the classic Japanese folktale, "The Tale of the Bamboo Cutter," from Isao Takahata's final film to Netflix's new tech-flavored Cosmic Princess Kaguya. ...
column

This Week in Anime - Bygone With The Wind

From anime ending songs starting in the few final seconds of the episode to the rise and fall of the Yandere archtype, Lucas and Chris take a look at the anime trends of yesteryear. ― From anime ending songs starting in the few final seconds of the episode to the rise and fall of the Yandere archtype, Lucas and Chris take a look at the anime trends of yesteryear. Disclaimer: The views and opinions e...
column

This Week in Games - Birdo's Back, Tennis Rackets—and Comcept is Dead

It's surprises all around this week with an unexpected character for the second Super Mario Bros. movie and a new otome game license. ― Welcome back, folks! You might have noticed a recent addition to our team, as well as a new addition to our column line-up! I'm happy to have Josh Tolentino joining us and covering This Week in Mobile Games. I respect and even like several mobile games (I've discusse...
column

This Week in Anime - LOVE AND PEACE!

Chris and Coop talk all things Trigun . ― Chris and Coop talk all things Trigun. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Full Disclosure: Coop regularly works with Discotek Media, MediaOCD, and AnimEigo, having provided copy for the recent Blu-ray releases of City Hunter 2 and Hajime no Ippo. His opinions given here ar...
column

This Week in Anime - Escalation by the Rules

Sylvia and Lucas discuss the building blocks of shounen battle series. ― Sylvia and Lucas discuss the building blocks of shounen battle series. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams Dragon Ball, Dragon Ball Z, Hunter x Hunter, Jujutsu Kaisen, and ...
column

This Week in Mobile Games - The Beginning of the Endfield

In the inagural entry to This Week in Mobile Games, Josh Tolentino takes a look at recently released gatcha powerhouse Arknights: Endfield. ― Hello, and welcome to the first installment of This Week in Mobile Games, Anime News Network's latest column! I'm Josh, and every couple of weeks, I'll be shining a light on the latest in mobile games. You might be wondering, "Who's this clown?" Indeed, while ...
column

Answerman - MAPPA and Netflix

What does MAPPA's new arrangement with Netflix mean for anime consumers? Jerome breaks it down. ― Pochita no Osewagakari asks: "With the recently announced strategic partnership between Netflix and MAPPA, is the studio now more likely, or less likely, to be able to ensure better pay and working conditions for its animators and freelance subcontractors? Furthermore, with this deal, is MAPPA turning i...
column

This Week in Games - SNK Sinks, Resident Evil Bling, and How Lara Croft Came to Japan

Somehow, City of the Wolves has done well enough to get a second wave of DLC. And the trailer is another curling of the monkey's paw. ― Welcome back, folks! In an effort to find joy wherever I can, I had a bright spot this week with the arrival of the Izuna soundtrack collection I had ordered from Very Okay Vinyl. Now, I don't own a record player (or even a CD player), but seeing these sets brought m...
column

This Week in Anime - Romcom Rendez-Vous

Lucas and Coop look at how the new season of romances and romantic comedies stack up. Is it enough to make you say, "I'll have what she's having?" ― Lucas and Coop look at how the new season of romances and romantic comedies stack up. Is it enough to make you say, "I'll have what she's having?" Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anim...
column

This Week in Anime - Maybe It's Isekai (Maybe It's LitRPG)

Is it isekai? Is it LitRPG? If it has a stat screen, does it even matter? Chris and Sylvia discuss. ― Is it isekai? Is it LitRPG? If it has a stat screen, does it even matter? Chris and Sylvia discuss. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Hell Mode and Reincarnated ...
column

This Week in Games - Ike's Back, Bricks Need a Budget, and Marissa Stole the Precious Nuggets

LEGO's Pokémon sets are super-effective against your wallet! Jean-Karlo discusses the bank-breaking sets and one of the most complex video game deep cuts to sell McNuggets. ― Welcome back, folks! Nintendo offered a "Year in Review" feature this week that covered my entire history with the Switch family of consoles. With all the games I've bought, there were surprisingly few games on that list—mostly ...
column

This Week in Anime - Samurai Slashes, Ronin Dashes

With the return of the Ronin Warriors, Coop and Chris cook up a new Toonami block. ― With the return of the Ronin Warriors, Coop and Chris cook up a new Toonami block. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Crunchyroll streams Samurai Troopers, Yoroi Shin Den Samurai Troopers, Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz, The Prince of...
column

This Week in Anime - Drama Over Anime

Sylvia and Lucas seek to remedy a shared blindspot with an exploration of shoujo anime and live action series. ― Sylvia and Lucas seek to remedy a shared blindspot with an exploration of shoujo anime and live action series. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunc...
column

Answerman - How many light novels that got official publication originated on Narou?

What does the Narou-to-anime pipeline actually look like? Jerome has answers. ― A reader asks asks: “How many light novels that receive an 'official' publication originate on the Shōtetsuka ni Narō (“Narou”( web-publishing platform)?” First off, what the hell is Narou? It's short for Shōsetusuka ni Narō, the massive Japanese website where amateur authors publish free web novels. The English translat...
column

This Week in Games - Live In Y○ur W×rld, △I Plays □urs

Jean-Karlo remembers David Rosen and looks forward to some new visual novels. ― Welcome back, folks! You'll notice I had a review for The Legend of Heroes: Trails Beyond the Horizons go live yesterday. I've long bemoaned my lack of exposure to Falcom's games, outside of playing a lot of Dragon Slayer on GameBoy in middle school; I've been thoroughly convinced. Just a shame about Falcom's dalliances w...
column

This Week in Anime - Top of the Bookwalker Charts

Lucas and Chris explore BookWalker 's rankings of their top titles and attempt to make it make sense. ― Lucas and Chris explore Bookwalker's rankings of their top titles and attempt to make it make sense. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Chris Lucas, we must stay re...
column

This Week in Anime - Uncomfortable and Uncompromising: the Works of Shuzo Oshimi

Sylvia and Coop explore the works of Shuzo Oshimi in all their glory. ― Sylvia and Coop explore the works of Shuzo Oshimi in all their glory. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Sylvia Hey, Coop! Let me poke my head in...
column

This Week in Games - Start Your Year on the Right Foot with... Rance?

What is coming to Steam? ― Welcome back, folks! And welcome to 2026! It's still 2025 while I'm writing this (the topic of temporal displacement relative to readers is not something I'm ready to discuss—this column will forever be in 2025, no matter when you read it). While the holidays may officially be over for most, we Puerto Ricans have one more to look forward to: Three King's Day, this upcoming ...
column

This Week in Anime - Ringing in the New Year

Chris and Coop look ahead to their most anticipated anime series of 2026. ― Chris and Coop look ahead to their most anticipated anime series of 2026. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Coop Welcome to 2026, Chris! I hope you had a restful holiday season, because it lo...
column

Answerman - Addressing the Amazon AI Dubs Controversy

Jerome channels his inner Clement Clarke Moore as he looks into the Amazon AI Dub Debacle. 'Twas the week before Christmas, when all through the site, The ANSWERMAN pondered what readers might write; Two questions were sent about dubbing with care, In hopes that some answers soon would be there. The eggnog is flowing, the family's near, But by glass number three, boredom appears. Your thumbs are a...
column

This Week in Games - At Least Mega Man Came Back

Lots of new entries into old franchises are in the news this week, but do we really need all of them? ― Welcome back, folks! The year is winding down, but our work with games doesn't! I've been fortunate to have a bit of spending money this month, which means I can add a ton of titles to my collection that I've kept an eye on. Unfortunately, this means that I have an even bigger backlog. Man, remembe...
column

This Week in Anime - Editor's Choice Part Two

It's Coop and Chris's turn to open their editorial gifts! Will they find diamonds or coal? ― It's Coop and Chris's turn to open their editorial gifts! Will they find diamonds or coal? Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Ranking of Kings, Hypnosis Mic, and Love Stage!! are available streaming on Crunchyroll. Haikyu!...
column

This Week in Anime - Editors' Choice Part One

Lucas and Steve unwrap their anime gifts from Lynzee and Rebecca and try to decide if this means they've been naughty or nice. ― Lucas and Steve unwrap their anime gifts from Lynzee and Rebecca and try to decide if this means they've been naughty or nice. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Spoiler Warning for disc...
column

This Week in Games - Can't Ask Harada for Nothin'

The famed director of Tekken is hanging up his gauntlets at Bandai Namco after 30 years. Plus, Jean-Karlo looks at Brown Dust 2's untimely cancellation on Steam and more in This Week in Games! ― Welcome back, folks! I was able to greatly enjoy my birthday weekend. I didn't get to beat Future Redeemed like I hoped, but hey, progress was made. I was even able to finish my Tekkaman Blade model kit! I'd ...
column

This Week in Anime - Class is in Session

Chris and Steve head back to high school in preparation for the reboot of High School! Kimengumi. ― Chris and Steve head back to high school in preparation for the reboot of High School! Kimengumi. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. YouTube (via REMOW) streams Hig...
column

This Week in Anime - The Great Amazon Dub Flub

Coop and Lucas discuss Amazon's surprise rollout of AI dubs and its fallout. ― Coop and Lucas discuss Amazon's surprise rollout of AI dubs and its fallout. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Lucas Coop, we've got a li...
column

Answerman - Satisfying Endings

Are there any series that have actual satisfying endings? Jerome looks into it. ― Timoshī Kurachitto asks: "What anime series really do deliver satisfying endings? Can you name me any?" Endings are difficult in anime storytelling. Many of the biggest series are adaptations of serialized manga, where editors don't like hit series to ever end. Sometimes the mangaka takes a hiatus mid-run and never ret...
column

This Week in Games - Interview with Ryūichi Nishizawa, Director of Milano's Odd Job Collection

This week, Nishizawa discusses "'the ultimate pixel-art slow-life game" in our interview! Plus, font licensing prices threaten the video game industry, Nintendo acquires a studio in Singapore, and more. ― Welcome back, folks! Last week saw the publication of a column I've been nursing for a long time about how my accident changed my experience with the Kamen Rider series. I'm quite proud of the recep...
column

This Week in Anime - Move Over, Sherlock

Chris and Steve put on their deerstalkers and pull out their magnifying glasses to do a thorough investigation of detective anime. ― Chris and Steve put on their deerstalkers and pull out their magnifying glasses to do a thorough investigation of detective anime. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning f...
column

This Week in Anime - Back in in My Day, We Had Abridged Series

This week, Coop and Lucas reminisce about a vestige of the Old Internet: abridged anime series. ― This week, Coop and Lucas reminisce about a vestige of the Old Internet: abridged anime series. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyte...
column

This Week in Anime - Who Would Buy Angel's Eggs in This Economy?

Chris and Steve crack the shell of Angel's Egg. ― Chris and Steve crack the shell of Angel's Egg. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Chris Steve, it happened again. Thanksgiving is here, and the only thing I have to b...
column

Answerman - The Woes That Befall One Punch Man Season 3

One Punch Man is a classic example of what happens when good anime goes bad. ― Keen Foxxx asks: "I'd love to hear your thoughts on One Punch Man season 3. What's actually going on with the production? How can such a popular franchise face so many issues? Don't the people in charge realize the mess this creates and the potential financial and morale damage to staff for a series this beloved? I also h...
column

This Week in Games - Chuuni Corpses

The Corpse Party Tetralogy is dead in the water, and Yoko Taro's projects keep getting cancelled! Jean-Karlo looks into both plus live-action Zelda, a new Dark Souls book, and more. ― Welcome back, folks! By the time you read this, I'll have watched Mamoru Oshii's Angel's Egg at a local theater. I first heard of the movie 15 years ago (thank you, Grumpy Jii-san, I miss you), and was thoroughly convin...
column

This Week in Anime - Bring Out the Big (Girls with) Guns

Was Jean-Luc Godard right when he said all you need to make a movie is a girl with a gun? Coop and Steve discuss ― Was Jean-Luc Godard right when he said all you need to make a movie is a girl with a gun? Coop and Steve discuss. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. ...
column

This Week in Anime - OOPs, There it Goes

Forget new series that never get legal streams, what about all of the old series that are impossible to find? Chris and Lucas discuss some really buried treasure. ― Forget new series that never get legal streams, what about all of the old series that are impossible to find? Chris and Lucas discuss some really buried treasure. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this c...
column

This Week in Games - Bowser Is Mr...

Jean-Karlo reacts to the new The Super Mario Galaxy Movie trailer reveal, Sony's new game line-up, and an unexpected collaboration coming to Monster Hunter. ― Welcome back, folks! So, I actually tried Peak with some online buddies of mine over the weekend. And I didn't really enjoy myself tons. Now, maybe it's because of the massive multiplayer mod my friends used (there are a lot of us, like 20+ at ...
column

This Week in Anime - A Magical, Musical Anime Column

Chris and Steve discuss what you get when music and magic combine to create a whole new world of anime. ― Chris and Steve discuss what you get when music and magic combine to create a whole new world of anime. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams...
column

This Week in Anime - Kodansha's Live-Action Anime Adaptation Venture

Lucas and Coop discuss the possibilities of Kodansha's new live-action initiative. ― Lucas and Coop discuss the possibilities of Kodansha's new live-action initiative. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Netflix streams Hana-Kimi, Cinderella Closet, Death Note (U.S...
column

Answerman - Conventions and Nostalgia

How much of a role does nostalgia play in conventions? Answerman sorts it out. ― A Reader asks: Q: "I have been a long-time fan of attending anime conventions in the USA and enjoy going to panels, both professional as well as fan-driven. As I have gotten older, I have noticed an unusual trend with fan panels, which make up a good portion of the content, especially at small and mid-sized events. That...
column

This Week in Games - Interview with Nobuyuki Okajima, Producer on Full Metal Schoolgirl Action Game

We spoke with the producer about the sci-fi schoolgirl action game, as well as a condensed history of Dragon Quest, and Love and Deepspace its dark-skinned character rendering. ― Welcome back, folks! This past weekend was Kumoricon—and my first time covering it professionally! I have a few interviews from the convention that'll go up shortly; it was a fun experience and a delight to speak to the figu...
column

This Week in Anime - The Long, Dark Night of Long-Running Series

With One Piece about to stop continuous broadcasting, Chris and Coop talk about how logistics have changed. ― With One Piece about to stop continuous broadcasting, Chris and Coop talk about how logistics have changed. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Full Discl...
column

This Week in Anime - Anime Movies Chainsawing Hollywood Theaters

Lucas and Coop talk Chainsaw Man with the popularity of the Reze Arc film's release. ― Lucas and Coop talk Chainsaw Man with the popularity of the Reze Arc film's release. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Coop Luca...
column

This Week in Games - It Was A Very Spoopy PlayStation 2 Anniversary

Freshly back from vacation, Jean-Karlo discusses TwitchCon and reminisces about the PS2 on its 25th anniversary. ― Welcome back, folks! I've returned from my vacation in San Diego; apparently, my coworkers said I even came back with a tan! It was a fun trip, and I figured out how to have fun while I was abroad. I definitely needed the time off, even if I actually missed working on This Week in Games ...
column

This Week in Anime - I Can't Believe They Dubbed This (Like This)!

Chris and Lucas explore the weird world of streaming dubs looking for wonderful and terrible surprises. ― Chris and Lucas explore the weird world of streaming dubs looking for wonderful and terrible surprises. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams...
column

This Week in Anime - OVAs on the Cob

Coop and Lucas go trick-or-treating at OceanVeil's house to see what OVAs they've put out. ― Coop and Lucas go trick-or-treating at OceanVeil's house to see what OVAs they've put out. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestene...
column

Answerman - Are Subtitles Getting Smaller?

Is it your eyes, your TV, or Crunchyroll's business decisions making this season's subtitles a bit of a mess? Answerman digs in. ― A Reader asks: Q: "Is it just my eyes, or are subtitles getting smaller?" No, it's not your eyes. I have often thought the same thing, after my own traumatic experience managing the UK home video campaign of Evangelion 3.33: You (Cannot) Release. Sorry! What? That's not ...
column

This Week in Anime - Ah, Well, Different World and All

Chris and Coop wade through this season's isekai offerings. Wait, are some of these shows trying to do something different? ― Chris and Coop wade through this season's isekai offerings. Wait, are some of these shows trying to do something different? Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion ...
column

This Week in Anime - The Column at the Corner of Anime Romance and Comedy

Steve and Lucas explore Fall 2025's anime rom-com offerings to find the perfect series. ― Steve and Lucas explore Fall 2025's rom-com offerings to find the perfect series. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. All titles mentioned are streaming on Crunchyroll, excep...
column

TWIG Goes On Vacation, But The Gaming Industry Doesn't

Jean-Karlo takes next week off, but not before he imparts some Digimon deep cuts from the "Prelude" anime short. ― Welcome back, folks! So, I know what this looks like, and by the time you read this, I will be in San Diego on vacation. But this past Sunday rolled around, and I was preparing myself to write this week's column, only to remember I was supposed to be on vacation. But then I realized, my ...
column

This Week in Anime - The Crunchyroll Sub Flub

Coop and Lucas look into the Crunchyroll subtitle situation that set social media ablaze and culminated in a scathing YouTube video by Mother's Basement. Are the technical issues fixed now? ― Coop and Lucas look into the Crunchyroll subtitle situation that set social media ablaze and culminated in a scathing YouTube video by Mother's Basement. Are the technical issues fixed now? Disclaimer: The view...
column

This Week in Games - Stray Kids, Hives, 'Mins, and DLsite Making Money

The creators of moon have a brand-new game in the works, and Nintendo Pictures debuts its first creation. Read more in This Week in Games! ― Welcome back, folks! In my continued efforts to keep this column on the straight and narrow, I avoid talking too much about Carnelian's efforts with the recent Kao no Nai Tsuki Remake visual novel. It's been out for a few weeks now, and as far as I can tell, it'...
column

Answerman - Defamation Versus Free Speech

The Ranking of Kings manga creator is suing a woman for defamation based on social media posts she made. Doesn't that violate free speech? ― Lawfully curious asks: A manga artist is suing a woman for defamation based on social media posts she made. Doesn't that violate free speech? Freedom of speech does not mean freedom from consequences, especially when it comes to defamation and hate speech. In c...
column

This Week in Games - EA Games Gets Played

This week, Jean-Karlo examines the EA Games purchase, the latest Silent Hill news, and what consumers and companies can do to ensure the games we play are developed fairly. ― Welcome back, folks! I finally got to share my Digimon Story: Time Stranger review this week. It was definitely one of the most fun things I've worked on all year. I hope people enjoy the game for what it is. I sadly missed the ...
column

This Week in Anime - My Love is a Monster

Christopher Farris and Steve Jones discuss the appeal of anime romance starring not-so-human guys, gals, and tentacle pals. ― Christopher Farris and Steve Jones discuss the appeal of anime romance starring not-so-human guys, gals, and tentacle pals. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion ...
column

This Week in Anime - Anime Across Generations

Coop and Lucas look at the ways different generations got into anime and remind us that we're all fans in the same fandom. ― Coop and Lucas look at the ways different generations got into anime and remind us that we're all fans in the same fandom. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Executive editor Lynzee Loveridg...
column

This Week in Games - Sony State of Play 2025

Kojima cannot be stopped! Jean-Karlo looks at the big news out of Tokyo Game Show and Sony's State of Play! ― Welcome back, folks! Man, they certainly kept us busy this week with the Tokyo Game Show. However, I am happy that I didn't have to sit through another two-stream day, where, I dunno, someone had a presentation right after Sony's State of Play. It's been a long week and there's a lot of news,...
column

This Week in Anime - The Name of the Game is Death

Steve and Lucas look at the death game genre and hope to emerge victorious. ― Steve and Lucas look at the death game genre and hope to emerge victorious. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Crunchyroll streams Necronomico, Future Diary, Danganronpa anime, Big Order...
column

This Week in Anime - The Panty & Stocking Phenomenon

The New Panty & Stocking went harder than we ever expected after so many years in limbo. Chris and Coop rehash some of the new season's best moments and its unabashedly not-safe-for-work moments. ― The New Panty & Stocking went harder than we ever expected after so many years in limbo. Chris and Coop rehash some of the new season's best moments and its unabashedly not-safe-for-work moments. Disclaim...
column

Answerman - What's Up with the Trash Monsters in Gachiakuta?

Jerome explains the importance of compositing artists, the unsung heroes of anime production. ― Shonen Action Fan asks: "I was really hyped to watch Gachiakuta this season, the latest splashy shonen manga adaptation from Studio Bones. I haven't read the manga, so I went into the anime cold. The trailers had me hyped, and the pilot episode didn't disappoint. I noticed online that some fans have been ...
column

This Week in Games - Nintendo September Direct 2025

You've watched the trailers; now get the full run-down of the latest news from last week's Nintendo Direct. From more Yoshi to the return of the Virtual Boy! ― Welcome back, folks! I hope everyone enjoyed my cameo appearance in This Week in Anime yesterday. I'd have made a cute segue for it in last week's column, but things were arranged a bit too late for that. It's always nice to collaborate with S...
column

This Week in Anime - International Rider Kick

Kamen Rider Zeztz has hit the international streaming airwaves, and our resident Kamen Writers are here to join the fray! Kamen Rider Zeztz has hit the international streaming airwaves, and our resident Kamen Writers are here to join the fray! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of t...
column

This Week in Anime - To Boldy Shojo Where No TWIA Has Before

From Shugo Chara to Hot Gimmick, Chris and Steve decide to throw Rebecca a bone by looking at the shojo manga bundle offered by HumbleBundle. ― From Shugo Chara to Hot Gimmick, Chris and Steve decide to throw Rebecca a bone by looking at the shojo manga bundle offered by HumbleBundle. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Net...
column

This Week in Games - Little Nightmares 3 Preview, and Digimon Stories: Time Stranger Interview

Jean-Karlo sets the record straight on Nintendo's latest patent, plus a preview of two upcoming games from PAX! ― Welcome back, folks! I've been ruminating on my recent review of Story of Seasons: Grand Bazaar. I mean what I said, but I worry if I might've been too harsh on the game. I feel like having to play a game like Grand Bazaar for review does it a disservice, because the nature of playing a g...
column

This Week in Anime - Unreviewed Gems

No one's infallible, and sometimes the true gems of the streaming season slip through the cracks. Chris and Lucas take a look at what we may have missed. ― No one's infallible, and sometimes the true gems of the streaming season slip through the cracks. Chris and Lucas take a look at what we may have missed. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the...
column

This Week in Anime - Webtoons and K-Dramas

Missing brothers, the truth about the KPop industry, and endless cycles of reincarnation are just a few of the things Coop and Steve find when they open the lid of the K-drama box and discover the darkness within. ― Missing brothers, the truth about the KPop industry, and endless cycles of reincarnation are just a few of the things Coop and Steve find when they open the lid of the K-drama box and di...
column

Answerman - Is Superhero Burnout at the Box Office Affecting Anime Films?

If superhero fatigue is affecting anime, it's only in a good way. Read on to find out why. ― Mister Terrific asks: "Is superhero burnout at the box office affecting anime films?" Superhero fatigue* is real. Just take a look at the summer 2024 box office results for Captain America: Brave New World, Thunderbolts, The Fantastic Four, and James Gunn's Superman, which I must admit, I really enjoyed. *Su...
column

This Week in Games - Shattered Hands, Ultima in Japan and My Hero Academia: All's Justice

Jean-Karlo tests out the latest MHA game at PAX, shares the tokusatsu history of a retro title, and explains why the American game franchise Ultima is a big deal in Japan. ― Welcome back, folks! I have returned from Seattle, having (distantly) experienced PAX West for the first time! No, I didn't fly out to Seattle for PAX specifically (in fact, I only spent a few hours touring the place); I was in t...
column

This Week in Anime - The Best Manga in Young Magazine—U.S. Edition

Could English-language manga magazines be poised to make a comeback? Chris and Coop aren't sure, but Kodansha's English issue of Young is still a lot of fun! ― Could English-language manga magazines be poised to make a comeback? Chris and Coop aren't sure, but Kodansha's English issue of Young is still a lot of fun! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are...
column

This Week in Anime - Over Hype and Anime Stagnation

Steve and Lucas dissect what's really going on in the anime industry and what needs to change—and how elf ears are an indispensable part of the deal. ― Steve and Lucas dissect what's really going on in the anime industry and what needs to change—and how elf ears are an indispensable part of the deal. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views o...
column

This Week in Games - Laboring LaDS

Love and Deepspace is too hot to ignore, former CAPCOM alums are starting a new studio, Final Fantasy: Brave Exvius shutters, and more Romancing SaGa is on the way! ― Welcome back, folks! Our Power Rangers charity stream last weekend was a success! It was such a blast to roleplay with the folks, fun times all around. I also took the opportunity to join some folks for an anime trivia night at a local ...
column

Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - The Cure is Pretty

Can one magical intern defeat The Blade of Michelob? ― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy the finale to the limited comic run! How will Azure turn the tide against her most formidabl...
column

This Week in Anime - American Manga Awards 2025

The winners of the American Manga Awards are in! Coop and Lucas take a look at them and share their thoughts. ― The winners of the American Manga Awards are in! Coop and Lucas take a look at them and share their thoughts. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network. Executive editor Lynzee Loveridge is a judge for the Ameri...
column

This Week in Anime - Sekiro, AI, and Auteur Directors

As Steve says, "A studio does not make an anime. People make anime." But what tools should those people be using? Chris and Steve discuss. ― As Steve says, "A studio does not make an anime. People make anime." But what tools should those people be using? Chris and Steve discuss. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.S...
column

Answerman - Why is Demon Slayer So Popular in Japan?

What's the secret behind Demon Slayer's intense popularity? According to experts, it's a lot of things. ― Lynzee asks: “Why is Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba anime and manga so popular in Japan?” Demon Slayer is popular in Japan for the same reasons it is popular everywhere else, and that is a good thing because not many of my Japan-based anime industry friends wanted to comment either on or off the...
column

This Week in Games - Kirby + Air = Rider(s)

Kirby is back, riding to glory in a sequel decades in the making. Also news about the Tales of... remasters and Shenmue III for all your nostalgia needs. ― Welcome back, folks! Hey, so, I wanna be honest about something for a minute: I put effort into giving credit to a lot of offbeat titles—obscure RPGs or simulation games or visual novels. A lot of that was my bread-and-butter growing up, and it st...
column

Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - Constant Reckless Barrage Smash Attack!

Can Jadress hold her own against this formidable foe, or will they need to call in back-up? ― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy a new comic each Thursday for the next week! In which...
column

This Week in Anime - Song of the Summer

There may not be a Top 40 "song of the summer" for 2025, but Coop and Chris have some good anime options! ― There may not be a Top 40 "song of the summer" for 2025, but Coop and Chris have some good anime options! Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Undead Murder F...
column

This Week in Anime - HBO to the Max

Steve and Lucas discuss HBO Max 's surprise influx of anime titles. ― Steve and Lucas discuss HBO Max's surprise influx of anime titles. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @LucasDeRuyter @vestenet Lucas Steve, I'm constantly floored when I re...
column

This Week in Games - Robos Saved, Ninja Babes, and Sega's AI Plans

Mario gets a new line for young fans, Chibi Robo comes to Nintendo Switch Online+, and Sega commits to generative AI. It's This Week in Games! ― Welcome back, folks! Over the week, I saw someone I follow bring up Backloggd, a website for keeping track of your game collection. I used to have a similar deal on the now-defunct 1Up.com. I've gone ahead and made a Backloggd page for myself. It's quite inc...
column

Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - The Blade of Michelob

In which the three elves have to do what takes some gamers 60+ hours to pull off. ― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy a new comic each Thursday for the next two weeks! In which, the...
column

This Week in Anime - Physical Media Is Cool Again!

Steve and Chris find a whole underwear drawer's worth of special extras that make collecting physical media cool. ― Steve and Chris find a whole underwear drawer's worth of special extras that make collecting physical media cool. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead....
column

This Week in Anime - Anime Just As Good As I Remembered

After breaking down the early fandom favorites that lost their luster, Coop and Lucas go back and examine the old faves that do hold up. ― After breaking down the early fandom favorites that lost their luster, Coop and Lucas go back and examine the old faves that do hold up. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoil...
column

Answerman and the Case of the Phantom Dubber

I've been working these mean streets of anime distribution long enough to know when something smells fishier than a week-old California roll, and this Tai Chi Chasers business raised more red flags than a military parade on an authoritarian's birthday. ― Dear Reader, The case came to me on a Tuesday, the kind of day when the Los Angeles smog hangs over the anime industry like a cheap suit on a depar...
column

This Week in Games - Brawling Capes, Big N's Red Tape, and Grown-Ups in Spandex

This week we have all the updates from EVO, what happened to Pekora's Pokémon stream, and an actually good Power Rangers collab! ― Welcome back, folks! It seems my busy schedule got the better of me: earlier this week, I checked to see if I still had time to submit a panel for this year's Kumoricon... and I was but a few days too late. What a shame; I was looking forward to hosting my History of Jap...
column

This Week in Anime - Demon Hunting KPop Style

Coop and Lucas discuss the animated film of the summer, KPop Demon Hunters and its incredible appeal. ― Coop and Lucas discuss the animated film of the summer, KPop Demon Hunters and its incredible appeal. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. @RiderStrike @BWProwl @...
column

Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - The Intern Enters the Labyrinth

In which, Annika gets lost in the Kadokawa conglomerate and crosses paths with some sinister sister company mascots. ― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy a new comic each Thursday fo...
column

This Week in Anime - Rainbow Days

It's a good season for queer anime! Chris and Steve go over your options. ― It's a good season for queer anime! Chris and Steve go over your options. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. You and Idol Precure♪, My Dress-Up Darling Season 2, and See You Tomorrow at th...
column

Answerman - Why Isn't Streaming Platform Marketing More Competitive?

Is "Genesis Does What Nintendon't" too harsh for today's marketing climate? ― Annie asks: “I always enjoy learning about marketing campaigns from the old days, like Pepsi vs. Coke and "Genesis Does What Nintendon't". But then I wondered: why isn't there much competitive marketing in the anime industry, inside and outside Japan? In an age of the anime streaming wars in the West, you never see Crunchy...
column

This Week in Games - One More Path Ahead

Jean-Karlo looks at the exciting new game announcements from this week's Nintendo Partner Showcase, breaks down Sony's lawsuit against Tencent, and payment processors are in the spotlight again as adult games get delisted. ― Welcome back, folks! I've spoken before about my regrets over not having played any of the Daemon X Machina games. The good news is, I was given a chance to do so—and I'm current...
column

Intern Annika - The ANN 25th Anniversary Special - A Pair of Familiar Elves

Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Enjoy a new comic each Thursday for the next five weeks! ― Surprise, it's a special comic celebrating Anime News Network's 25th anniversary. Artist Robin Sevakis returned to draw a short series of comics focusing on Anime News Network's mascots of the past and present and what would happen if they all met. Enjoy a new c...
column

This Week in Anime - When Anime Takes on Sex Education

Lucas and Steve compare and contrast SHIMONETA and Nukitashi to see which show does it better. ― Lucas and Steve compare and contrast Shimoneta and Nukitashi to see which show does it better. Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed by the participants in this chatlog are not the views of Anime News Network.Spoiler Warning for discussion of the series ahead. Shimoneta and World End Harem are str...

For all articles, see the archives