You're probably curious as to what the best game I played in the year of 2009 was. Well here it is:
Fallout 3.
Why Fallout 3? Because it has everything I could ever want in a game.
Oh sure, I've played many great games this year, including Bioshock, Gears of War 2, Batman: Arkham Asylum, Valkyria Chronicles, Persona 4, Blaz Blue, Guilty Gear, Portal, and any others I might be forgetting, but Fallout 3 stands above all of them. It truly is a must play.
Wow. I'm such a different person now than I was nearly two years ago when I started this blog. When I first started, I had no Touhou music on my harddrive, I still hated everything Sailor Moon-related, I didn't even have an Xbox 360 nor a PS3 . . . how far I've come.
See you in 2010.
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Wednesday, December 30, 2009
Touhou music is good
Hey everybody, I haven't been able to talk about anything other than Chrono Crusade for a while. My gawd, it's painful to not blog about Touhou.
I didn't even tell you that I published an all-new chapter of A Touhou Fanfiction About Nothing last Christmas Eve! And that I have more on the way! (insert teary face)
So I will rectify that the best way I can . . . MORE LINKS!!!!!!
This is a vocal version of the stage 3 theme from Subterranean Animism. I love the original, and this version is lovely, too.
This here is my favorite instrumental version of Meiling's theme. Okay, technically, it's the stage 3 theme of Embodiment of Scarlet Devil and her theme in one melody, but it's great.
This is a cool flash and a rock remix of Yuyuko's theme. Or should I say, Yuyuyuyuyuyuyuyuyuyuko's theme. I like it.
This is a remix of one of Youmu's themes. I love it.
And this is the best video ever done to a Bad Apple remix. I say that, because it's surprisingly true to the setting of Gensokyo.
. . .
And before I go, one last link: Hitler didn't like UFO
I didn't even tell you that I published an all-new chapter of A Touhou Fanfiction About Nothing last Christmas Eve! And that I have more on the way! (insert teary face)
So I will rectify that the best way I can . . . MORE LINKS!!!!!!
This is a vocal version of the stage 3 theme from Subterranean Animism. I love the original, and this version is lovely, too.
This here is my favorite instrumental version of Meiling's theme. Okay, technically, it's the stage 3 theme of Embodiment of Scarlet Devil and her theme in one melody, but it's great.
This is a cool flash and a rock remix of Yuyuko's theme. Or should I say, Yuyuyuyuyuyuyuyuyuyuko's theme. I like it.
This is a remix of one of Youmu's themes. I love it.
And this is the best video ever done to a Bad Apple remix. I say that, because it's surprisingly true to the setting of Gensokyo.
. . .
And before I go, one last link: Hitler didn't like UFO
Chrono Crusade: The manga: the review
Surprise! I actually already wrote a review in my notes two years ago! Here it is, with only a few slight alterations.
* * *
There are books out there that are not like the other books. These books, it's like they click with you. They click with your inner being. You enjoy every single word you devour, every single picture you take notice of. It's almost like, the books read themselves to you, like the book is just anxious to get its message across to you. And no matter how many times you read through the book, it is as enjoyable now as it was when you very first fell in love with it.
Love has a name, and her name, is Chrono Crusade.
She's beautiful, yes. Stunning backgrounds, excellent character designs, nothing looks out of proportion. Her loveliness is on par with something I’d expect from a Final Fantasy game, for lack of a better description.
And she's cute, too. The two protagonists, Sister Rosette, and demon boy Chrono, are heroes whom you'll feel attached to. Rosette is kind of like Marle from the other Chrono franchise I love so much, except she really is cute, and is fun to watch, also. Chrono, on the other hand, is a much less excitable hero than Rosette, but he is fleshed-out, too, and you'll come to understand that not all demons are evil after reading this book series.
And the stories she (the book) has to tell. The writing is absolutely top-notch, from the setting, to the plots, to the characterizations, to the dialogue, everything. And it's not too complex either; I can actually make sense of what she's saying without consulting Wikipedia!
When you see me comparing a comic book series to an ideal woman, that's a pretty surefire sign that I highly recommend the product. Well folks, if you have not experienced the awesome-in-a-book-series that is Chrono Crusade, then please, stop what you’re doing; read all eight volumes of Chrono Crusade. But please, don’t read it because I told you too, don’t read it because you’re bored, don’t read it because, “Oh-em-gee! It’s Japaneeeeeee-eeeeese! It must be sooooooo wonderful!” and don’t read it just so you can develop a greater appreciation for illustrative literature.
Read it, for great justice.
Chrono Crusade overview:
Good stuff: Gorgeous artwork, a simple story that is deep and exciting and cute and funny all at once, and Sister Rosette.
Bad Stuff: There is a little bit of sexual fanservice that’s unnecessary and cheapens the feel of a few scenes.
Final Score: Let me think about that for a second . . . 10 out of 10.
* * *
There are books out there that are not like the other books. These books, it's like they click with you. They click with your inner being. You enjoy every single word you devour, every single picture you take notice of. It's almost like, the books read themselves to you, like the book is just anxious to get its message across to you. And no matter how many times you read through the book, it is as enjoyable now as it was when you very first fell in love with it.
Love has a name, and her name, is Chrono Crusade.
She's beautiful, yes. Stunning backgrounds, excellent character designs, nothing looks out of proportion. Her loveliness is on par with something I’d expect from a Final Fantasy game, for lack of a better description.
And she's cute, too. The two protagonists, Sister Rosette, and demon boy Chrono, are heroes whom you'll feel attached to. Rosette is kind of like Marle from the other Chrono franchise I love so much, except she really is cute, and is fun to watch, also. Chrono, on the other hand, is a much less excitable hero than Rosette, but he is fleshed-out, too, and you'll come to understand that not all demons are evil after reading this book series.
And the stories she (the book) has to tell. The writing is absolutely top-notch, from the setting, to the plots, to the characterizations, to the dialogue, everything. And it's not too complex either; I can actually make sense of what she's saying without consulting Wikipedia!
When you see me comparing a comic book series to an ideal woman, that's a pretty surefire sign that I highly recommend the product. Well folks, if you have not experienced the awesome-in-a-book-series that is Chrono Crusade, then please, stop what you’re doing; read all eight volumes of Chrono Crusade. But please, don’t read it because I told you too, don’t read it because you’re bored, don’t read it because, “Oh-em-gee! It’s Japaneeeeeee-eeeeese! It must be sooooooo wonderful!” and don’t read it just so you can develop a greater appreciation for illustrative literature.
Read it, for great justice.
Chrono Crusade overview:
Good stuff: Gorgeous artwork, a simple story that is deep and exciting and cute and funny all at once, and Sister Rosette.
Bad Stuff: There is a little bit of sexual fanservice that’s unnecessary and cheapens the feel of a few scenes.
Final Score: Let me think about that for a second . . . 10 out of 10.
Let's Read Chrono Crusade Volume 8
Chapter 49
This volume is slightly larger than the others, and has the best artwork in the series, and . . . IS THE BEST ONE YET! Chrono True Form GO!
Chapter 50
Rosette and Joshua meet again. This time, they fight for real.
Chapter 51
Sorry. No details. Too much spoiling. Must keep reading.
Chapter 52
Chrono and Aion face each other off. The suspense is off the charts!
Chapter 53
The reason Aion wants to kill Pandamonium is so he and the other demons can be free, and so he can reshape the world as he sees fit. So all this time, he was trying to, that's right, take over the world.
OF COURSE!
Also, Azmaria has a moment of awesomeness. See? I told you she wasn't a bad character!
Chapter 54
Epicness is within this chapter. Now's about a good time to play more appropriate music.
Chapter 55
It's . . . It's . . . beautiful! Truly beautiful! (If I were more sensitive, I'd probably be crying right now.)
Chapter 56
The final battle reaches its conclusion.
Epilogue chapter
Everything has become right again. We see a happy, beautifully done ending.
YOU FUCKERS WHO ACT LIKE JAPANESE AUTHORS CAN'T WRITE GOOD ENDINGS TO ANIME/MANGA SERIES ARE DEAD FUCKING WRONG! Buncha fucking racists. Miyazaki, Moriyama, Ohba and Obato, and the staff of Studio Bones defy this.
Final thoughts: Wow. I already read this whole series, but, wow. I guess I better write up that review, huh?
This volume is slightly larger than the others, and has the best artwork in the series, and . . . IS THE BEST ONE YET! Chrono True Form GO!
Chapter 50
Rosette and Joshua meet again. This time, they fight for real.
Chapter 51
Sorry. No details. Too much spoiling. Must keep reading.
Chapter 52
Chrono and Aion face each other off. The suspense is off the charts!
Chapter 53
The reason Aion wants to kill Pandamonium is so he and the other demons can be free, and so he can reshape the world as he sees fit. So all this time, he was trying to, that's right, take over the world.
OF COURSE!
Also, Azmaria has a moment of awesomeness. See? I told you she wasn't a bad character!
Chapter 54
Epicness is within this chapter. Now's about a good time to play more appropriate music.
Chapter 55
It's . . . It's . . . beautiful! Truly beautiful! (If I were more sensitive, I'd probably be crying right now.)
Chapter 56
The final battle reaches its conclusion.
Epilogue chapter
Everything has become right again. We see a happy, beautifully done ending.
YOU FUCKERS WHO ACT LIKE JAPANESE AUTHORS CAN'T WRITE GOOD ENDINGS TO ANIME/MANGA SERIES ARE DEAD FUCKING WRONG! Buncha fucking racists. Miyazaki, Moriyama, Ohba and Obato, and the staff of Studio Bones defy this.
Final thoughts: Wow. I already read this whole series, but, wow. I guess I better write up that review, huh?
Let's Read Chrono Crusade Volume 7
Chapter 43
Rosette and Chrono arrive at Eden, the base of Aion. Not surprisingly, two of Aion's goons, Genai and Viede, start fighting them. Just then, a whole army of winged demons from Pandamonium show up to punish Aion. IT'S A THREE FRONT WAR!
Chapter 44
The leader of the Pandamonium armed forces is Duke Duffau, a demon who can match Aion in a one-on-one fight. Break out the epic fight music!
Chapter 45
All this time, Aion was planning to use the power of the Apostles to control the Astral Line (I forgot to mention this; the Astral Line is basically something in the sky that functions exactly like the LifeStream from Final Fantasy 7) and cause it to slam into Pandamonium. His plan is finally brought into fruition. Can our heroes win in time? NEED MORE EPIC MUSIC!
Chapter 46
DEMONS EVERYWHERE! HOLY FUCKING SHIT, MY FRIENDS!
Chapter 47
Fiore's real name is Florette Harvenheit. She and her sister Satella must fight now. CAN'T STOP!
Chapter 48
Shit goes down. Can't comment, for it would be too big of a spoiler.
Side Chapter
This is a flashback to when Rosette was 13, and still new to the Magdalene Order. Even this side chapter is well written. I'm amazed.
Omake #7
Daisuke mentions that the anime version of CC has sound and color, unlike the manga. But he also says that he couldn't have come this far had it not been for the fans. Fans like me.
Final thoughts: notimeforfinalthoughtsscrewwaitinganotherdayi'mskippinstraighttothefinale
Rosette and Chrono arrive at Eden, the base of Aion. Not surprisingly, two of Aion's goons, Genai and Viede, start fighting them. Just then, a whole army of winged demons from Pandamonium show up to punish Aion. IT'S A THREE FRONT WAR!
Chapter 44
The leader of the Pandamonium armed forces is Duke Duffau, a demon who can match Aion in a one-on-one fight. Break out the epic fight music!
Chapter 45
All this time, Aion was planning to use the power of the Apostles to control the Astral Line (I forgot to mention this; the Astral Line is basically something in the sky that functions exactly like the LifeStream from Final Fantasy 7) and cause it to slam into Pandamonium. His plan is finally brought into fruition. Can our heroes win in time? NEED MORE EPIC MUSIC!
Chapter 46
DEMONS EVERYWHERE! HOLY FUCKING SHIT, MY FRIENDS!
Chapter 47
Fiore's real name is Florette Harvenheit. She and her sister Satella must fight now. CAN'T STOP!
Chapter 48
Shit goes down. Can't comment, for it would be too big of a spoiler.
Side Chapter
This is a flashback to when Rosette was 13, and still new to the Magdalene Order. Even this side chapter is well written. I'm amazed.
Omake #7
Daisuke mentions that the anime version of CC has sound and color, unlike the manga. But he also says that he couldn't have come this far had it not been for the fans. Fans like me.
Final thoughts: notimeforfinalthoughtsscrewwaitinganotherdayi'mskippinstraighttothefinale
Monday, December 28, 2009
Let's Read Chrono Crusade Volume 6
Chapter 36
Flashback to Northwest Arizona, 1870. Aion and his goons are overlooking the Grand Canyon with a woman named Mary Magdalene. (Shock!) Chrono was with them, as well. Mary has the power to see in the future, and Aion captured her so aid in his quest. Rosette is learning all of this for the first time by diving into his soul.
Chapter 37
The reason Aion betrayed Pandamonium is because he wants to free the demons, but apparently, the only way to do that is to do . . . something, I can't remember. Whatever it is, it can't be good. For a while, Chrono played along with him, too. Now he's a reformed hero.
Chapter 38
Rosette's pocketwatch was made by Shader! Holy crap, I totally forgot that! Oh, also, Mary was traumatized by the savagery of the American Civil War as a kid. War sucks.
Chapter 39
Aion betrayed Chrono, and ripped his horns off. Very tragic chapter. Makes me hate Aion all the ever more.
Chapter 40
Mary's fate is described in detail, and Rosette is able to save Chrono. Why don't I see more comics with genuine pathos?
Chapter 41
Oh man! A fight with someone I can't reveal, for it would be too big of a spoiler!
Chapter 42
Our heroes are now proceeding to Eden, the fortress of Aion. The final stretch has begun! (To be continued in volume 7. Naturally.)
Omake #6
Daisuke thinks that everything in the world is the work of cute girls. I . . . am now feeling a sort of kinship between Moriyama-san and myself.
Final thoughts: Questions are answered, and the heroes are on the move. If this isn't the best shonen action series ever, then I don't know what is! Bring on the next volume!
Flashback to Northwest Arizona, 1870. Aion and his goons are overlooking the Grand Canyon with a woman named Mary Magdalene. (Shock!) Chrono was with them, as well. Mary has the power to see in the future, and Aion captured her so aid in his quest. Rosette is learning all of this for the first time by diving into his soul.
Chapter 37
The reason Aion betrayed Pandamonium is because he wants to free the demons, but apparently, the only way to do that is to do . . . something, I can't remember. Whatever it is, it can't be good. For a while, Chrono played along with him, too. Now he's a reformed hero.
Chapter 38
Rosette's pocketwatch was made by Shader! Holy crap, I totally forgot that! Oh, also, Mary was traumatized by the savagery of the American Civil War as a kid. War sucks.
Chapter 39
Aion betrayed Chrono, and ripped his horns off. Very tragic chapter. Makes me hate Aion all the ever more.
Chapter 40
Mary's fate is described in detail, and Rosette is able to save Chrono. Why don't I see more comics with genuine pathos?
Chapter 41
Oh man! A fight with someone I can't reveal, for it would be too big of a spoiler!
Chapter 42
Our heroes are now proceeding to Eden, the fortress of Aion. The final stretch has begun! (To be continued in volume 7. Naturally.)
Omake #6
Daisuke thinks that everything in the world is the work of cute girls. I . . . am now feeling a sort of kinship between Moriyama-san and myself.
Final thoughts: Questions are answered, and the heroes are on the move. If this isn't the best shonen action series ever, then I don't know what is! Bring on the next volume!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Let's Read Chrono Crusade Volume 5
Chapter 29
This chapter begins with what is probably the greatest image in the entire franchise; a two-page color spread of Rosette and Joshua standing in front of a fountain with the night sky in the background. Rosette is distraught, nearly to the point of tears, whereas Joshua is poised, with a bird of prey perched on his arm. Oh, and a long-awaited fight scene begins.
Chapter 30
You wanna know why the anime version of Chrono Crusade is so reviled? Chrono fights in his "true" form once throughout the entire anime series. Not so here. The seal on Rosette's pocket watch is loosened once more; something serious is gonna go down, I can feel it.
Chapter 31
Aion doesn't have horns either. And Joshua's maid is a jewel summoner like Satella! If this were the first time I were reading this, I would've had a "HO LEE FUCK!" moment just now (Which I really did have when I first read this). Even despite already knowing what happens, it stills feels powerful.
Chapter 32
More good guys show up, but bad guys pull out their aces in the sleeves. Azmaria is captured, (Aion wants her power for something. Hmm.) and overall, the bad guys won. Don't you just hate it when that happens?
Chapter 33
Azmaria is an "Apostle," which would explain her angel-like powers. There are seven in the world. And guess what? Aion has all seven now. Joshua is also an Apostle. And we are introduced to Shader, a demon . . . catgirl. *faceplam self* Well, her dialogue is amusing, I'll give Moriyama that much.
Chapter 34
SYMBOLISM!!!!1!1
Oh, okay, symbolism is not inherently a bad trope. There is a such thing as good symbolism, which Chrono Crusade does have.
Chapter 35
Fiore, the maid with summoner's jewels, is Satella's olser sister, and the demon who killed their parents and captured Fiore was Aion all this time. "Demon without horns." One good, one evil. The chapter ends with Rosette doing another soul dive; this time, into Chrono's soul. Of course, end the book on a cliffhanger, but hey, this is why I own the entire series.
Omake #5
Daisuke shows some sketches of characters that didn't make it into the final version of Chrono Crusade. He cut them because they didn't fit into the plot. YES! Way to excise filler, Moriyama-san!
Final thoughts: This is the WHAM volume. Just like Riza's flashback in Fullmetal Alchemist, the Acid Tokyo arc in Tsubasa, and the latest English volume of Kurokami; this is the one that says, "Thanks for sticking with the series for this long! Now we will reward you with storytelling that will grip you by the balls! and refuse to let go!" See? It's books like this that keep me interested in graphic novels.
This chapter begins with what is probably the greatest image in the entire franchise; a two-page color spread of Rosette and Joshua standing in front of a fountain with the night sky in the background. Rosette is distraught, nearly to the point of tears, whereas Joshua is poised, with a bird of prey perched on his arm. Oh, and a long-awaited fight scene begins.
Chapter 30
You wanna know why the anime version of Chrono Crusade is so reviled? Chrono fights in his "true" form once throughout the entire anime series. Not so here. The seal on Rosette's pocket watch is loosened once more; something serious is gonna go down, I can feel it.
Chapter 31
Aion doesn't have horns either. And Joshua's maid is a jewel summoner like Satella! If this were the first time I were reading this, I would've had a "HO LEE FUCK!" moment just now (Which I really did have when I first read this). Even despite already knowing what happens, it stills feels powerful.
Chapter 32
More good guys show up, but bad guys pull out their aces in the sleeves. Azmaria is captured, (Aion wants her power for something. Hmm.) and overall, the bad guys won. Don't you just hate it when that happens?
Chapter 33
Azmaria is an "Apostle," which would explain her angel-like powers. There are seven in the world. And guess what? Aion has all seven now. Joshua is also an Apostle. And we are introduced to Shader, a demon . . . catgirl. *faceplam self* Well, her dialogue is amusing, I'll give Moriyama that much.
Chapter 34
SYMBOLISM!!!!1!1
Oh, okay, symbolism is not inherently a bad trope. There is a such thing as good symbolism, which Chrono Crusade does have.
Chapter 35
Fiore, the maid with summoner's jewels, is Satella's olser sister, and the demon who killed their parents and captured Fiore was Aion all this time. "Demon without horns." One good, one evil. The chapter ends with Rosette doing another soul dive; this time, into Chrono's soul. Of course, end the book on a cliffhanger, but hey, this is why I own the entire series.
Omake #5
Daisuke shows some sketches of characters that didn't make it into the final version of Chrono Crusade. He cut them because they didn't fit into the plot. YES! Way to excise filler, Moriyama-san!
Final thoughts: This is the WHAM volume. Just like Riza's flashback in Fullmetal Alchemist, the Acid Tokyo arc in Tsubasa, and the latest English volume of Kurokami; this is the one that says, "Thanks for sticking with the series for this long! Now we will reward you with storytelling that will grip you by the balls! and refuse to let go!" See? It's books like this that keep me interested in graphic novels.
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Let's Read Chrono Crusade Volume 4
Chapter 22
Throughout the series, Chrono has been referred to as a "Sinner," as well as Aion, the demon that turned Joshua. What could that mean?
Chapter 23
Chrono once followed Aion into doing some kind of uprising that involved slaughtering 100 or so demons of Pandamonium. Of course, doing so gets one branded as a "sinner" and anyone who has committed the sin of killing fellow demons or harboring said sinner will be executed. Now begs the question, "Why would Aion do such a thing?"
Chapter 24
One thing manga series are known for is having artwork that improves over time. Volume 4 already looks better than volume 1, and even in Volume 1, I thought this was one of the most beautiful graphic novels I've ever read. Way to go, Moriyama-san!
Chapter 25
Satella has an older sister she looked up to. Also, there's more fanservice in this chapter. Too bad it's not the fanservice I like to see. (Bonus characters in video games, an unexpected cameo of an actor I like, that sort of thing.)
Chapter 26
Our heroes have just arrived in San Francisco. Also, there's a very touching moment between Rosette and Chrono. Character development! And no, I'm not being sarcastic, either.
Chapter 27
FORESHADOWING! A great narrative technique when used correctly.
Chapter 28
Rosette finally reunites with Joshua, but will it end well? We're now at the halfway point!
Omake #4
Daisuke talks about a Chrono Crusade drama CD that was recorded. He claims the people who worked on it had a better understanding of the characters than him the creator! Uh, Moriyama-san, as an aspiring author myself, I find that really hard to believe. I've talked about my original series to my family, but no one clearly understands my characters like I do. Then again, most people in my family aren't writers like me, either.
Final thoughts: Not as much action in this volume, but that's okay, since it promises the 5th volume to be really powerful. Stick around!
Throughout the series, Chrono has been referred to as a "Sinner," as well as Aion, the demon that turned Joshua. What could that mean?
Chapter 23
Chrono once followed Aion into doing some kind of uprising that involved slaughtering 100 or so demons of Pandamonium. Of course, doing so gets one branded as a "sinner" and anyone who has committed the sin of killing fellow demons or harboring said sinner will be executed. Now begs the question, "Why would Aion do such a thing?"
Chapter 24
One thing manga series are known for is having artwork that improves over time. Volume 4 already looks better than volume 1, and even in Volume 1, I thought this was one of the most beautiful graphic novels I've ever read. Way to go, Moriyama-san!
Chapter 25
Satella has an older sister she looked up to. Also, there's more fanservice in this chapter. Too bad it's not the fanservice I like to see. (Bonus characters in video games, an unexpected cameo of an actor I like, that sort of thing.)
Chapter 26
Our heroes have just arrived in San Francisco. Also, there's a very touching moment between Rosette and Chrono. Character development! And no, I'm not being sarcastic, either.
Chapter 27
FORESHADOWING! A great narrative technique when used correctly.
Chapter 28
Rosette finally reunites with Joshua, but will it end well? We're now at the halfway point!
Omake #4
Daisuke talks about a Chrono Crusade drama CD that was recorded. He claims the people who worked on it had a better understanding of the characters than him the creator! Uh, Moriyama-san, as an aspiring author myself, I find that really hard to believe. I've talked about my original series to my family, but no one clearly understands my characters like I do. Then again, most people in my family aren't writers like me, either.
Final thoughts: Not as much action in this volume, but that's okay, since it promises the 5th volume to be really powerful. Stick around!
Friday, December 18, 2009
Let's Read Chrono Crusade Volume 3
Chapter 15
We are introduced to Satella Harvenheit, a German woman who is a bounty hunter, as well as a "jewel summoner", meaning she can use magical gemstones to fight baddies. Also, she has huge breasts, wears high heels, has long red hair, is taller than the other female characters, and speaks randomly in German at times. Oh ho ho, I see you have researched "Common fetishes 101," Moriyama-san!
Chapter 16
Satella's been looking for someone, someone who burned down her house 10 years prior to the present. "A Demon without horns." and now she's found him. She's surprised that Chrono has existed for as long as he has without horns, but is she really gonna kill him? The intrigue!
Chapter 17
After fighting a monster, Chrono reveals that there's no way he could've burned Satella's home down, because he was asleep at the time. Satella then agrees to join up with our heroes to find the real culprit. Also, more demons have been sneaking into America, but how?
Chapter 18
Chrono Crusade takes place during Prohibition. Remember Prohibition? Despite the federal government best efforts, alcohol consumption was actually at an all time high during Prohibition, and you see that hear too, with acts of underage drinking, no less! Also, Satella is only 19, even though she looks more like she's in her early 30's if you ask me.
Chapter 19
Rosette, Chrono, Azmaria, and Satella ride a train to San Francisco to hopefully find Joshua. However, the train gets highjacked . . . by the same demon who attacked Rosette in Grand Central Station; the puppet master Rizelle! Rizelle has complete control over the passengers, and can use their bodies to attackour heroes, and even have them commit suicide. Oh god, the suspense!
Chapter 20
Rizelle is a spider-like demon woman who was sent to capture Rosette alive under Joshua's orders. Rosette and Rizelle duke it out.
Chapter 21
The conflict with Rizelle ends, but more questions are brought up. You better have the entire manga series (like I do) if you wanna learn the truth!
Side chapter
A monster is on the loose in New York during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Rosette and Chrono defeat it. There is some four wall breaking in this chapter, since it has no bearing on the actual plot.
Omake #3
Daisuke talks about his masterpiece more. He admits that Satella and Joshua looks too mature for their age. (Joshua is 15, yet looks 19 or 20. lolwut?) He also says the hero group "has too many girls. Sorry." What? Why are you apologizing for, Moriyama-san? You write female characters just as well as male characters, and the lone male hero has his name in the title. Oh wait, is it because CC is marketed as shonen, but he's afraid little boys are gonna be like, "Why are so many girls in this manga!? Girls have cooties!" But then again, this is being analyzed by a guy who likes it whenever he sees a game or comic that doesn't portray females in a sexist light. Ha! CC is solid proof that not all comics are hateful towards women! Then again, he is actually proud of himself for his (remarkably, I must admit) accurate portrayal of America done by a Japanese author. Don't be afraid of being confident, Moriyama-san! You can do it!
Final thoughts: The three chapters featuring Rizelle are absolutely exhilarating. Even though action scenes never look that great in comic format, this sequence somehow is great despite that limitation. Take that, anime adaptation!
We are introduced to Satella Harvenheit, a German woman who is a bounty hunter, as well as a "jewel summoner", meaning she can use magical gemstones to fight baddies. Also, she has huge breasts, wears high heels, has long red hair, is taller than the other female characters, and speaks randomly in German at times. Oh ho ho, I see you have researched "Common fetishes 101," Moriyama-san!
Chapter 16
Satella's been looking for someone, someone who burned down her house 10 years prior to the present. "A Demon without horns." and now she's found him. She's surprised that Chrono has existed for as long as he has without horns, but is she really gonna kill him? The intrigue!
Chapter 17
After fighting a monster, Chrono reveals that there's no way he could've burned Satella's home down, because he was asleep at the time. Satella then agrees to join up with our heroes to find the real culprit. Also, more demons have been sneaking into America, but how?
Chapter 18
Chrono Crusade takes place during Prohibition. Remember Prohibition? Despite the federal government best efforts, alcohol consumption was actually at an all time high during Prohibition, and you see that hear too, with acts of underage drinking, no less! Also, Satella is only 19, even though she looks more like she's in her early 30's if you ask me.
Chapter 19
Rosette, Chrono, Azmaria, and Satella ride a train to San Francisco to hopefully find Joshua. However, the train gets highjacked . . . by the same demon who attacked Rosette in Grand Central Station; the puppet master Rizelle! Rizelle has complete control over the passengers, and can use their bodies to attackour heroes, and even have them commit suicide. Oh god, the suspense!
Chapter 20
Rizelle is a spider-like demon woman who was sent to capture Rosette alive under Joshua's orders. Rosette and Rizelle duke it out.
Chapter 21
The conflict with Rizelle ends, but more questions are brought up. You better have the entire manga series (like I do) if you wanna learn the truth!
Side chapter
A monster is on the loose in New York during the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade. Rosette and Chrono defeat it. There is some four wall breaking in this chapter, since it has no bearing on the actual plot.
Omake #3
Daisuke talks about his masterpiece more. He admits that Satella and Joshua looks too mature for their age. (Joshua is 15, yet looks 19 or 20. lolwut?) He also says the hero group "has too many girls. Sorry." What? Why are you apologizing for, Moriyama-san? You write female characters just as well as male characters, and the lone male hero has his name in the title. Oh wait, is it because CC is marketed as shonen, but he's afraid little boys are gonna be like, "Why are so many girls in this manga!? Girls have cooties!" But then again, this is being analyzed by a guy who likes it whenever he sees a game or comic that doesn't portray females in a sexist light. Ha! CC is solid proof that not all comics are hateful towards women! Then again, he is actually proud of himself for his (remarkably, I must admit) accurate portrayal of America done by a Japanese author. Don't be afraid of being confident, Moriyama-san! You can do it!
Final thoughts: The three chapters featuring Rizelle are absolutely exhilarating. Even though action scenes never look that great in comic format, this sequence somehow is great despite that limitation. Take that, anime adaptation!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Let's Read Chrono Crusade Volume 2
Chapter 7
Fanservice. Oh joy. (The girl's nipples are not detailed. Was this censored for the American release? Or was this how it was originally illustrated? It doesn't matter, though. Boobs shot aren't worth obsessing over.)
Chapter 8
A thrilling sequence at Grand Central Station ensues here. A villain who can take control of the bodies of bystanders attacks our heroes. Also, there is mention of someone named Joshua. Oh, the intrigue!
Chapter 9
It turns out Joshua is Rosette's younger brother. Four years prior to the present, Rosette and Joshua were wandering around outside of the foster home where they lived. They stumbled upon an old catacomb, and found a tomb which housed a demon named Chrono. The two-page spread on pages 64 and 65 is one of the most striking images I've ever seen in a graphic novel. By the way, Joshua can heal people just by touching them. Isn't it always nice to have a healer in your party?
Chapter 10
Joshua can heal other people, but not himself. Not only that, he is quite sickly. A demon named Aion takes advantage of this: he offers Joshua a pair of demon horns, horns that would cure his illness. He accepts. And . . . now he's gone crazy. And that was four years ago. Rosette has been looking for him since. By the way, those horns that Joshua has? They used to belong to Chrono. DUN DUN DUUUUUUN!
Chapter 11
Right after Joshua became possessed by the demon horns, it was then that Rosette and Chrono formed their contract. Only catch? Rosette probably won't live past the age of 30. She's 16 in the present. Well, better make the most of it!
Chapter 12
There are two higher ups in the Magdalene Order, Sister Kate, and Father Remington. Rosette frequently butts head with Sister Kate (as was also seen in volume one), while she has a girly crush on Father Remington. Also, Azmaria wants to be more like Rosette. Heh, a moe girl trying to be a firebrand like Rosette; this should be fun.
Chapter 13
Azmaria gets possessed by a monster. Rosette can only save her by "diving" into Azmaria's subconscious and rescuing her from there. The chapter makes a point that only when you acknowledge fear can you move forward. Who says shonen series can't be insightful?
Chapter 14
Joshua is currently living in a nice house near the ocean. He even has his own maid, Fiore. A small army of demons appear before him and demand to see his master Aion. Joshua kills all of them effortlessly. Mommy, he scares me.
Omake #2
Daisuke Moriyama talks about Chrono Crusade again, like for example how the concept of time running out is pervasive. He also mentions the anime version of Chrono Crusade, which isn't exactly word-for-word like the manga.
Final Thoughts: The plot thickens. Oh god, does the plot thicken. After reading this volume back in 2007, I decided to own the series in its entirety. I knew I was taking a risk; what if the later volumes sucked? But it was a gamble that paid off beautifully. I'm proud to still have this work of art in my collection. See you in volume 3!
Fanservice. Oh joy. (The girl's nipples are not detailed. Was this censored for the American release? Or was this how it was originally illustrated? It doesn't matter, though. Boobs shot aren't worth obsessing over.)
Chapter 8
A thrilling sequence at Grand Central Station ensues here. A villain who can take control of the bodies of bystanders attacks our heroes. Also, there is mention of someone named Joshua. Oh, the intrigue!
Chapter 9
It turns out Joshua is Rosette's younger brother. Four years prior to the present, Rosette and Joshua were wandering around outside of the foster home where they lived. They stumbled upon an old catacomb, and found a tomb which housed a demon named Chrono. The two-page spread on pages 64 and 65 is one of the most striking images I've ever seen in a graphic novel. By the way, Joshua can heal people just by touching them. Isn't it always nice to have a healer in your party?
Chapter 10
Joshua can heal other people, but not himself. Not only that, he is quite sickly. A demon named Aion takes advantage of this: he offers Joshua a pair of demon horns, horns that would cure his illness. He accepts. And . . . now he's gone crazy. And that was four years ago. Rosette has been looking for him since. By the way, those horns that Joshua has? They used to belong to Chrono. DUN DUN DUUUUUUN!
Chapter 11
Right after Joshua became possessed by the demon horns, it was then that Rosette and Chrono formed their contract. Only catch? Rosette probably won't live past the age of 30. She's 16 in the present. Well, better make the most of it!
Chapter 12
There are two higher ups in the Magdalene Order, Sister Kate, and Father Remington. Rosette frequently butts head with Sister Kate (as was also seen in volume one), while she has a girly crush on Father Remington. Also, Azmaria wants to be more like Rosette. Heh, a moe girl trying to be a firebrand like Rosette; this should be fun.
Chapter 13
Azmaria gets possessed by a monster. Rosette can only save her by "diving" into Azmaria's subconscious and rescuing her from there. The chapter makes a point that only when you acknowledge fear can you move forward. Who says shonen series can't be insightful?
Chapter 14
Joshua is currently living in a nice house near the ocean. He even has his own maid, Fiore. A small army of demons appear before him and demand to see his master Aion. Joshua kills all of them effortlessly. Mommy, he scares me.
Omake #2
Daisuke Moriyama talks about Chrono Crusade again, like for example how the concept of time running out is pervasive. He also mentions the anime version of Chrono Crusade, which isn't exactly word-for-word like the manga.
Final Thoughts: The plot thickens. Oh god, does the plot thicken. After reading this volume back in 2007, I decided to own the series in its entirety. I knew I was taking a risk; what if the later volumes sucked? But it was a gamble that paid off beautifully. I'm proud to still have this work of art in my collection. See you in volume 3!
Monday, December 14, 2009
Let's Read Chrono Crusade Volume 1
Chapter 1
The moment you start reading CC, the first thing you'll notice is just how gorgeous the artwork is. This is seriously one of maybe the top 5 most beautiful graphic novels I've ever read in my life. Unlike most Japanese comics, the backgrounds are exquisitely detailed, as are the characters. Oh, also, we're introduced to Rosette Christopher and Chrono. Chrono is cool-headed, Rosette is fiery as can be. I'll elaborate on their dynamic later.
Chapter 2
We learn that Rosette and Chrono are part of an organization called the Magdalene Order, a society fighting an invisible war against demons and other supernatural baddies. And yes, Rosette is a nun with guns. (Whoa, a part of the Catholic Church has become a militia? Trinity Blood flashback.) I told my mom about this series back when I first started reading this; she thought this series would really piss off Catholics. I can't be certain if they really would, (all the Christians in my family are either Methodist or Lutheran) but I have read a theory on the web that the Magdalene Order just disguises itself as a Catholic Church. Is that really true?
Chapter 3
We are now introduced to Azmaria Hendric, a Portuguese girl who has a beautiful singing voice. There's four heroes in this piece: Rosette, a hotheaded American girl, Chrono, a coolheaded demon boy, and Azmaria, a . . . Mary Sue-ish moe girl. Don't fret, she undergoes character development as the series progresses. Party Member #4 appears in a later volume.
Chapter 4
Daisuke Moriyama, the author of CC, did a great deal of research when making this series. You can see it everywhere; the detail in real-life locations, how America was during the 1920s, how much the world was affected by the First World War. Oh, also, Rosette is crazy. Very, very, crazy. And to think, she's my favorite character in this series. That must say a lot about me right there.
Chapter 5
The villains of this series are rather, well, evil. The Villain of the Week here is Lerajie, a demon that Chrono once fought in the past. Looks like they're gonna fight again!
Chapter 6
In CC, Chrono and Rosette are bonded together with a stopwatch. With this stopwatch, Chrono's powers are receded, but he is also much friendlier than demons usually are. When the time is necessary, Rosette can weaken the seal on Chrono, allowing him to tap into the full extent of his powers. We see this for the first time. In his "true" form, Chrono is an absolute beast in combat, but he is also much more violent, and also uncontrollable. (Wait, a demon fighting other demons, who has a "Superpowered Evil Side"? More Trinity Blood flashbacks.)
Omake #1
We see Daisuke Moriyama for the first time. He always illustrates himself as a shaggy dog man. He talks about his inspirations for making CC, and also comes across as a manic-despressive individual. Is he really that neurotic in real life? There is also a note by ADV Manga, who, if I may say, did a superb job translating this series. (I was saddened when they lost their Yotsuba&! license.)
Final Thoughts
I first read CC Vol. 1 about two-and-a-half years ago in my city library. Right then and there, I knew, I had discovered something special. And I'm glad I did. More gushing to come!
The moment you start reading CC, the first thing you'll notice is just how gorgeous the artwork is. This is seriously one of maybe the top 5 most beautiful graphic novels I've ever read in my life. Unlike most Japanese comics, the backgrounds are exquisitely detailed, as are the characters. Oh, also, we're introduced to Rosette Christopher and Chrono. Chrono is cool-headed, Rosette is fiery as can be. I'll elaborate on their dynamic later.
Chapter 2
We learn that Rosette and Chrono are part of an organization called the Magdalene Order, a society fighting an invisible war against demons and other supernatural baddies. And yes, Rosette is a nun with guns. (Whoa, a part of the Catholic Church has become a militia? Trinity Blood flashback.) I told my mom about this series back when I first started reading this; she thought this series would really piss off Catholics. I can't be certain if they really would, (all the Christians in my family are either Methodist or Lutheran) but I have read a theory on the web that the Magdalene Order just disguises itself as a Catholic Church. Is that really true?
Chapter 3
We are now introduced to Azmaria Hendric, a Portuguese girl who has a beautiful singing voice. There's four heroes in this piece: Rosette, a hotheaded American girl, Chrono, a coolheaded demon boy, and Azmaria, a . . . Mary Sue-ish moe girl. Don't fret, she undergoes character development as the series progresses. Party Member #4 appears in a later volume.
Chapter 4
Daisuke Moriyama, the author of CC, did a great deal of research when making this series. You can see it everywhere; the detail in real-life locations, how America was during the 1920s, how much the world was affected by the First World War. Oh, also, Rosette is crazy. Very, very, crazy. And to think, she's my favorite character in this series. That must say a lot about me right there.
Chapter 5
The villains of this series are rather, well, evil. The Villain of the Week here is Lerajie, a demon that Chrono once fought in the past. Looks like they're gonna fight again!
Chapter 6
In CC, Chrono and Rosette are bonded together with a stopwatch. With this stopwatch, Chrono's powers are receded, but he is also much friendlier than demons usually are. When the time is necessary, Rosette can weaken the seal on Chrono, allowing him to tap into the full extent of his powers. We see this for the first time. In his "true" form, Chrono is an absolute beast in combat, but he is also much more violent, and also uncontrollable. (Wait, a demon fighting other demons, who has a "Superpowered Evil Side"? More Trinity Blood flashbacks.)
Omake #1
We see Daisuke Moriyama for the first time. He always illustrates himself as a shaggy dog man. He talks about his inspirations for making CC, and also comes across as a manic-despressive individual. Is he really that neurotic in real life? There is also a note by ADV Manga, who, if I may say, did a superb job translating this series. (I was saddened when they lost their Yotsuba&! license.)
Final Thoughts
I first read CC Vol. 1 about two-and-a-half years ago in my city library. Right then and there, I knew, I had discovered something special. And I'm glad I did. More gushing to come!
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Another blow by blow account coming up
I haven't gushed enough about Chrono Crusade.
If you don't know, Chrono Crusade, the manga anyways, is the epitome of shonen serials. I have all eight volumes, but I haven't read the series in two years.
Now I wanna read it again.
This will be like when I played Final Fantasy 7 nearly two years ago. However, much like then, I will keep spoilers to a minimum. I'll format like this:
One Volume = One Blog Entry.
I will then summarize each chapter, and how I feel about it.
And after all eight volumes have been read, I will post a review, just like I did with FF7. I hope you enjoy what's in store.
Notice: We do not talk about the anime version of Chrono Crusade in this household.
P.S. My last day of school this semester is one week from today. If I can't start reading CC now, I can do it then.
If you don't know, Chrono Crusade, the manga anyways, is the epitome of shonen serials. I have all eight volumes, but I haven't read the series in two years.
Now I wanna read it again.
This will be like when I played Final Fantasy 7 nearly two years ago. However, much like then, I will keep spoilers to a minimum. I'll format like this:
One Volume = One Blog Entry.
I will then summarize each chapter, and how I feel about it.
And after all eight volumes have been read, I will post a review, just like I did with FF7. I hope you enjoy what's in store.
Notice: We do not talk about the anime version of Chrono Crusade in this household.
P.S. My last day of school this semester is one week from today. If I can't start reading CC now, I can do it then.
Tuesday, December 8, 2009
Last Blaz Blue Post (for now) I swear!
I got to see the True Ending of the story mode of BB: CT. There are so many Sequel Hooks in this game, it's not even funny, but it has me hooked, though. Now I'll have to buy BB: CS when it comes out for consoles.
OH NOES! TEH GAME COMPINEE HAS GARINTEED MY MONIES YET AGIN! IMMA GONNA END UP POR NAO!!!!!
But hey, I think it'll be worth it.
I've become genuinely attached to the characters of Blaz Blue. (okay, most of the characters. Jin is someone I love to hate, but unlike some characters, I get the feeling you're supposed to hate him.) In fact, you wanna know something? I . . . I . . .
I think Rachel is cute.
Not Insanely Cute, mind you, but there's something about her that's . . . cute, despite her being a mean bitch. Maybe it's how she uses her servants. Maybe it's her voice. (I can't believe Mela Lee went from Fuuka in Persona 3 to Rachel. I still can't tell it's her. Fuuka's voice was bland and lifeless, Rachel's voice is . . . beautiful.) Maybe it's her Tim Burton-esque stage. Oh, and I guess you could say I think Noel is cute too, although only Moderately Cute at best.
But I wanna know; is Continuum Shift gonna have a comedy miniseries also? Will it be a continuation of Teach Me, Ms. Litchi, or something new? Will Tao still do cute things? Will Litchi captivate more people with her chibipanda? Will Kokonoe finish Tager's "upgrade"? Will Ragna and Jin continue to drive the fangirls wild? Will I stop asking questions?
Only time will tell.
OH NOES! TEH GAME COMPINEE HAS GARINTEED MY MONIES YET AGIN! IMMA GONNA END UP POR NAO!!!!!
But hey, I think it'll be worth it.
I've become genuinely attached to the characters of Blaz Blue. (okay, most of the characters. Jin is someone I love to hate, but unlike some characters, I get the feeling you're supposed to hate him.) In fact, you wanna know something? I . . . I . . .
I think Rachel is cute.
Not Insanely Cute, mind you, but there's something about her that's . . . cute, despite her being a mean bitch. Maybe it's how she uses her servants. Maybe it's her voice. (I can't believe Mela Lee went from Fuuka in Persona 3 to Rachel. I still can't tell it's her. Fuuka's voice was bland and lifeless, Rachel's voice is . . . beautiful.) Maybe it's her Tim Burton-esque stage. Oh, and I guess you could say I think Noel is cute too, although only Moderately Cute at best.
But I wanna know; is Continuum Shift gonna have a comedy miniseries also? Will it be a continuation of Teach Me, Ms. Litchi, or something new? Will Tao still do cute things? Will Litchi captivate more people with her chibipanda? Will Kokonoe finish Tager's "upgrade"? Will Ragna and Jin continue to drive the fangirls wild? Will I stop asking questions?
Only time will tell.
Monday, December 7, 2009
Criticisms are necessary
As much as I love Blaz Blue, I've noticed a few problems.
I'll start with what everyone has already said a thousand times before on Dustloop: BB is not as nuanced as GG. BB doesn't have as many characters, has 4 attack buttons instead of 5, not as many special moves, combos, "Supers" and such, and has a few balance issues.
Of course, keep in mind, the Guilty Gear franchise has been out for a lot longer than Blaz Blue; BB is just getting started. This is typical of a fighting series. Remember, the first edition of Street Fighter II had only 8 playable fighters. (Of course, that was a lot back in 1991.)
Still, Blaz Blue is more balanced than some other fighters I've played. This most likely stems from Aksys' previous experience from GG. However, there's a few instances where things feel broken:
-Tager can't dash. Well, then again, neither could Potemkin, but he at least had long reaching attacks. Tager's attacks are mostly short to medium range. Better get used to drawing your opponent in.
-If a combo freak like me is playing Noel, expect the following: D into A into B into C into either down down-forward forward D or down down-backward back D, repeat until target is dead. Also, her super special moves have a lot of range.
-GODDAMN HAKUMEN, WHAT THE FUCK!? Forget Nu, Hakumen is the "SNK Boss" of Calamity Trigger! He's kind of slow, and isn't that good at combos, but he has the strongest regular attacks in the game, he has (I think) the second-highest defense rating in the game, his C attacks have a long reach, and unlike Tager, he can mid-air dash. He can't dash on the ground, (just hop forward) but god DAMN this guy is overpowered. He's the one opponent I dread; he usually beats me on my first try, even on the easiest difficulty level!
With that said, let's get back to gushing!
The music. Well, I can't say the soundtrack is as good as the one in GG: XX, but it's still pretty good. I really like Bang's theme, Carl's theme, Ragna's theme, Tager's theme, the Ragna vs Rachel theme, and Nu's theme. There's more variety in the music than there was in GG. Almost all the music in GG was either 80s rock and/or some kind of metal. In BB, you've got J-rock, metal, jazz, jazz/rock fusion, opera rock, and the background music of the story mode. Also, I'm sure as the series matures, they'll be more good music, as well as arrangements of pre-existing songs, just like in GG.
Oh, and you wanna know how my 4th favorite character is? Noel!
Honestly, when I first saw her in story mode, I thought she was a moe girl. She stumbles over her speech, is extremely naive and insecure, likes cute things, and hates bugs. And yet, when she's actually fighting, she's not timid at all. (I guess that would make her half-moe. Or wait, isn't what I call "half-moe chicks" what tvtropes calls "Badass Adorable"? Maybe so.) I love using her in battle, and, I'm gonna let you in on a little secret: I think she's better-looking than Litchi. Yeah, unlike her, Noel actually has a somewhat normal physique. I know, it almost sounds like sacrilege, coming from me, (Wait! Did xm just say a blonde girl was more attractive than a ravenhaired woman!?) but I think it's true.
But, I'm gonna offer an apology. In my first BB post, I said Litchi looked like a Dead or Alive chick drawn in 2D. I am sorry for printing this. While I still thinkBoobie Lady Litchi has a ridiculous body, at least she has a decent face and properly-rendered hair. The actual DOA chicks? Horribly rendered faces and hair follicles.
Oh, jackasses from high school who think I'm "queer" for not thinking, uh, what were their names? Kasumi, Ayane, and Tina? Oh yeah, for those of you who think I'm gay for not thinking Kasumi, Ayane, and Tina are "hawt", you know why? Are you familiar with the phrase, "Uncanny Valley"? Being someone who adores CGI, close-to-nothing comes across as Uncanny Valley to me. And yet, the DOA chicks do. Yeah, I know, saying a "hawt" CG model is in the Uncanny Valley is about the most insulting thing you can say, so I hope that explains my feelings. Oh, also, while I'm on the subject, I know I'm about to steal Linkara's vocalbulary for the following, but it must be said: Tomonobu Itagaki is an egomaniacal, misogynistic fuckhead, and I feel no shame nor remorse in calling him as such. Team Ninja is better off without him.
But why obsess over that when I have BB now? Blaz Blueand chibipandas makes everything better.
Oh, I might as well say it:
xm0123's BB: CT mains: Noel, Bang, Taokaka.
xm0123's BB: CT subs: Rachel, Ragna.
I'll start with what everyone has already said a thousand times before on Dustloop: BB is not as nuanced as GG. BB doesn't have as many characters, has 4 attack buttons instead of 5, not as many special moves, combos, "Supers" and such, and has a few balance issues.
Of course, keep in mind, the Guilty Gear franchise has been out for a lot longer than Blaz Blue; BB is just getting started. This is typical of a fighting series. Remember, the first edition of Street Fighter II had only 8 playable fighters. (Of course, that was a lot back in 1991.)
Still, Blaz Blue is more balanced than some other fighters I've played. This most likely stems from Aksys' previous experience from GG. However, there's a few instances where things feel broken:
-Tager can't dash. Well, then again, neither could Potemkin, but he at least had long reaching attacks. Tager's attacks are mostly short to medium range. Better get used to drawing your opponent in.
-If a combo freak like me is playing Noel, expect the following: D into A into B into C into either down down-forward forward D or down down-backward back D, repeat until target is dead. Also, her super special moves have a lot of range.
-GODDAMN HAKUMEN, WHAT THE FUCK!? Forget Nu, Hakumen is the "SNK Boss" of Calamity Trigger! He's kind of slow, and isn't that good at combos, but he has the strongest regular attacks in the game, he has (I think) the second-highest defense rating in the game, his C attacks have a long reach, and unlike Tager, he can mid-air dash. He can't dash on the ground, (just hop forward) but god DAMN this guy is overpowered. He's the one opponent I dread; he usually beats me on my first try, even on the easiest difficulty level!
With that said, let's get back to gushing!
The music. Well, I can't say the soundtrack is as good as the one in GG: XX, but it's still pretty good. I really like Bang's theme, Carl's theme, Ragna's theme, Tager's theme, the Ragna vs Rachel theme, and Nu's theme. There's more variety in the music than there was in GG. Almost all the music in GG was either 80s rock and/or some kind of metal. In BB, you've got J-rock, metal, jazz, jazz/rock fusion, opera rock, and the background music of the story mode. Also, I'm sure as the series matures, they'll be more good music, as well as arrangements of pre-existing songs, just like in GG.
Oh, and you wanna know how my 4th favorite character is? Noel!
Honestly, when I first saw her in story mode, I thought she was a moe girl. She stumbles over her speech, is extremely naive and insecure, likes cute things, and hates bugs. And yet, when she's actually fighting, she's not timid at all. (I guess that would make her half-moe. Or wait, isn't what I call "half-moe chicks" what tvtropes calls "Badass Adorable"? Maybe so.) I love using her in battle, and, I'm gonna let you in on a little secret: I think she's better-looking than Litchi. Yeah, unlike her, Noel actually has a somewhat normal physique. I know, it almost sounds like sacrilege, coming from me, (Wait! Did xm just say a blonde girl was more attractive than a ravenhaired woman!?) but I think it's true.
But, I'm gonna offer an apology. In my first BB post, I said Litchi looked like a Dead or Alive chick drawn in 2D. I am sorry for printing this. While I still think
Oh, jackasses from high school who think I'm "queer" for not thinking, uh, what were their names? Kasumi, Ayane, and Tina? Oh yeah, for those of you who think I'm gay for not thinking Kasumi, Ayane, and Tina are "hawt", you know why? Are you familiar with the phrase, "Uncanny Valley"? Being someone who adores CGI, close-to-nothing comes across as Uncanny Valley to me. And yet, the DOA chicks do. Yeah, I know, saying a "hawt" CG model is in the Uncanny Valley is about the most insulting thing you can say, so I hope that explains my feelings. Oh, also, while I'm on the subject, I know I'm about to steal Linkara's vocalbulary for the following, but it must be said: Tomonobu Itagaki is an egomaniacal, misogynistic fuckhead, and I feel no shame nor remorse in calling him as such. Team Ninja is better off without him.
But why obsess over that when I have BB now? Blaz Blue
Oh, I might as well say it:
xm0123's BB: CT mains: Noel, Bang, Taokaka.
xm0123's BB: CT subs: Rachel, Ragna.
Friday, December 4, 2009
RiDe TeH iCeNiNg!1!1!1
Let's do a little voice actor trivia, shall we? Of course, knowing me, I tend to prefer dubs, and I'm playing Blaz Blue in English, so . . . yeah.
-Ragna is played by Patrick Seitz. Patrick has recently shown up on my radar, having voiced Steiner in Kurokami, Jaeger in Valkyria Chronicles, and now Ragna in BB. His deep voice is ideal for the hard-edged Ragna, and, well, he's just awesome in the role! "Shut up! You're nothing but stuffed toys!" I also hear he voiced Dracula in the more recent Castlevania games. I should play those sometime.
-Tager is voiced by Jamieson Price. I recognize him as Chad from Bleach, and Norb (my favorite performance of his) from Eureka Seven. He has a really deep voice, like the kind you'd hear in movie narrations. Now, I know a few dub enthusiasts who have criticized him for lacking feeling in his delivery. I'll admit, he sounded rather flat as Duke in Tales of Vesperia, but, he sounds perfect as Tager; calm and collected one moment, GIGANTIC TAGER THE NEXT!
-Arakune is voiced by Spike Spencer. Yeah, I know, I don't like his version of Shinji, but he is a good actor. It's hard to recognize his voice in BB though, since Arakune's speech is distorted. But if there's one thing I like about Spike, it's that he can sound absolutely deranged, and good God, is Arakune deranged. The laughter, the echoing, the hunger for power!
-And of course, Bang Shishigami is voiced by longtime veteran Tony Oliver. I've already given props to him in the past for directing E7, and making Konata's dad sound hilarious in Lucky Star. Well, he's impressed me yet again as Bang. I always appreciate a performer who can "ham it up" and still sound cool.
-Carl, being a young boy character, is voiced by Michelle Ruff, an actress. I've already gushed about her enough as it is. Although Carl's voice sounds too feminine, ("Dude, that is totally a woman doing the voice.") she still does a fine job acting.
-There's an NPC in Calamity Trigger who will become a playable character in Continuum Shift named Tsubaki. She's played by Julie Ann Taylor. I recognize her as Yui from Lucky Star, and Akane from Kurokami. In Blaz Blue, she also voices a character named Kokonoe. Tsubaki and Kokonoe sound absolutely nothing alike, yet it's the same person. That's quite the range; had me fooled.
-And lastly, there's an NPC named Jubei who's voiced by Kirk Thorton. I know him as Jade Curtiss from Tales of the Abyss, among many other roles. He does a good job here, too.
There are some VAs in Blaz Blue I don't recognize. Before looking up tvtropes, I didn't know who David Vincent, Cristina Valenzuela, and Doug Erholtz were, yet they all sound freakin' awesome in this game. I will look out for them in the future.
Okay, it's official: BB has best the voice-acting I've ever heard in a fighting game. EAT IT, MORTAL KOMBAT! (Never was a fan of MK.)
Oh, and I'm not done talking about BB either. Not by a long shot.
-Ragna is played by Patrick Seitz. Patrick has recently shown up on my radar, having voiced Steiner in Kurokami, Jaeger in Valkyria Chronicles, and now Ragna in BB. His deep voice is ideal for the hard-edged Ragna, and, well, he's just awesome in the role! "Shut up! You're nothing but stuffed toys!" I also hear he voiced Dracula in the more recent Castlevania games. I should play those sometime.
-Tager is voiced by Jamieson Price. I recognize him as Chad from Bleach, and Norb (my favorite performance of his) from Eureka Seven. He has a really deep voice, like the kind you'd hear in movie narrations. Now, I know a few dub enthusiasts who have criticized him for lacking feeling in his delivery. I'll admit, he sounded rather flat as Duke in Tales of Vesperia, but, he sounds perfect as Tager; calm and collected one moment, GIGANTIC TAGER THE NEXT!
-Arakune is voiced by Spike Spencer. Yeah, I know, I don't like his version of Shinji, but he is a good actor. It's hard to recognize his voice in BB though, since Arakune's speech is distorted. But if there's one thing I like about Spike, it's that he can sound absolutely deranged, and good God, is Arakune deranged. The laughter, the echoing, the hunger for power!
-And of course, Bang Shishigami is voiced by longtime veteran Tony Oliver. I've already given props to him in the past for directing E7, and making Konata's dad sound hilarious in Lucky Star. Well, he's impressed me yet again as Bang. I always appreciate a performer who can "ham it up" and still sound cool.
-Carl, being a young boy character, is voiced by Michelle Ruff, an actress. I've already gushed about her enough as it is. Although Carl's voice sounds too feminine, ("Dude, that is totally a woman doing the voice.") she still does a fine job acting.
-There's an NPC in Calamity Trigger who will become a playable character in Continuum Shift named Tsubaki. She's played by Julie Ann Taylor. I recognize her as Yui from Lucky Star, and Akane from Kurokami. In Blaz Blue, she also voices a character named Kokonoe. Tsubaki and Kokonoe sound absolutely nothing alike, yet it's the same person. That's quite the range; had me fooled.
-And lastly, there's an NPC named Jubei who's voiced by Kirk Thorton. I know him as Jade Curtiss from Tales of the Abyss, among many other roles. He does a good job here, too.
There are some VAs in Blaz Blue I don't recognize. Before looking up tvtropes, I didn't know who David Vincent, Cristina Valenzuela, and Doug Erholtz were, yet they all sound freakin' awesome in this game. I will look out for them in the future.
Okay, it's official: BB has best the voice-acting I've ever heard in a fighting game. EAT IT, MORTAL KOMBAT! (Never was a fan of MK.)
Oh, and I'm not done talking about BB either. Not by a long shot.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
With a fire in your heart
"QUICKER THAN THE WIND AND AS STILL AS THE FOREST! HOTTER THAN FLAMES AND MORE MAGNIFICENT THAN A MOUNTAIN! BANG SHISHIGAMI IS HERE!"
And now I have made known who my third favorite character in Blaz Blue is.
Why?
-He's as manly as Kamina, but much more fleshed out as a character. (Seriously TTGL fans: where's the love for Leeron and Kittan? Oh wait, I'm getting off subject.)
-He's very emotional. He sure cries a lot for a man's man. That in itself is manly. *sniff* It brings a tear to my eye!
-His theme song rocks.
-He's an awesome character to play as in actual gameplay.
-His adoration for Litchi is hilarious, yet touching at the same time.
-AND HE HAS THE (English) VOICE OF TONY OLIVER!
Man, Blaz Blue easily has the best characterization I've ever seen in a fighting game. The story mode gives me flashes from LucasArts games, seriously.
Oh, speaking of which, I finally unlocked all of the "Teach Me, Ms. Litchi!" segments. It was worth it. It was worth it for the
SCIENCE!
God, I love Blaz Blue.
And now I have made known who my third favorite character in Blaz Blue is.
Why?
-He's as manly as Kamina, but much more fleshed out as a character. (Seriously TTGL fans: where's the love for Leeron and Kittan? Oh wait, I'm getting off subject.)
-He's very emotional. He sure cries a lot for a man's man. That in itself is manly. *sniff* It brings a tear to my eye!
-His theme song rocks.
-He's an awesome character to play as in actual gameplay.
-His adoration for Litchi is hilarious, yet touching at the same time.
-AND HE HAS THE (English) VOICE OF TONY OLIVER!
Man, Blaz Blue easily has the best characterization I've ever seen in a fighting game. The story mode gives me flashes from LucasArts games, seriously.
Oh, speaking of which, I finally unlocked all of the "Teach Me, Ms. Litchi!" segments. It was worth it. It was worth it for the
SCIENCE!
God, I love Blaz Blue.
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