Tag Archives: Anime

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East vs West: Could American Animation be More Popular than Traditional Anime?

April 21, 2023 Jason Nichols Leave a comment

American animation and Eastern Anime are distinct styles that set them apart. While anime certainly has a head start on Western style, its global popularity is undeniable. But could shows like Family Guy and South Park make their way into more viewers’ hearts than Japanese anime, even with such a stark contrast to their approaches?

American animation often features exaggerated, cartoonish characters with simpler designs and more limited animation details. In addition, it is typically targeted toward children or families and often includes humor and slapstick comedy. In contrast, Eastern Anime usually has more detailed character designs and animation, focusing on storytelling, character development, and themes that appeal to a broader range of ages.

One of the critical strengths of American animation is its ability to appeal to find a targeted audience, from young children to adults. As a result, many American animated shows have become cultural touchstones, beloved by generations. Shows like Looney Tunes, The Simpsons, and Spongebob Squarepants have endured for decades and have become embedded in popular culture. American animation also has a strong tradition of experimentation and innovation, with shows like Adventure Time and Steven Universe pushing the boundaries of what is possible in animated storytelling.

On the other hand, Eastern Anime has gained a massive following worldwide, with many fans drawn to the complex characters, intricate storytelling, and unique visual style. In addition, anime often deals with deeper themes, such as coming-of-age, relationships, and societal issues. It also has a strong tradition of genre-blending, with shows that mix action, romance, comedy, and drama in new and exciting ways.

Anime has become a staple among broad and niche audiences; classics like Yu-Yu Hakusho, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Pokemon have continued to spawn a wave of modern anime; One Piece, Dr. Stone, Death Parade, and dozens more seem to gain popularity endlessly. At a point in Japanese history where youths feel more disconnected than ever within their culture, watching anime is a widespread way to escape this friction.

But which one is better is the question. Despite their differences, American animation and Eastern Anime have influenced each other over the years. Japanese anime has significantly impacted American animation, with shows like Avatar: The Last Airbender and Legend of Korra blending Eastern and Western styles especially. American animation, in turn, has influenced the development of anime, with shows like Cowboy Bebop and Fullmetal Alchemist, and Attack on Titan, all drawing inspiration from Western storytelling and animating techniques.

As for the question of whether American animation will ever surpass anime, it is difficult to say, but a few factors could push American animation to new heights.

One of these factors is the growing popularity of adult-oriented animated shows. Shows like Bojack Horseman, Rick and Morty, Archer, and Big Mouth have proven that animated storytelling can tackle complex themes that appeal to mature audiences. As creators and studios explore this space, we may see a new wave of American animation that pushes the boundaries of what is possible in the medium.

Another factor is the continued evolution of animation technology. As computers become more powerful and animation software becomes more sophisticated, animators will have more tools to create complex, detailed worlds. The technology we innovate could lead to a new era of American animation, rivaling the intricacy and artistry of Eastern anime. While some Anime artists have already begun to tap into this underutilized tool, the competition for fans may come down to a technological art race.

Ultimately, whether American animation ever “surpasses,” anime is less important than the fact that both styles continue to thrive and evolve. As long as creators persist in pushing the boundaries of what is possible in animated storytelling, we will continue to see new and exciting shows from both sides of the Pacific.

Anime

Saitama Has Finally Had Enough

June 28, 2022 Jason Nichols Leave a comment

Fans of the One Punch Man animated series have been waiting for years to see Saitama pushed past his limits. It’s been a recurring joke against the Shonen anime style (he finishes his opponent in one punch), but have the writers made the shift into a full on Shonen series? In season 1’s I’m the Strongest, the Molemen dream encounter is the only time Saitama goes all out. Beware of potential spoilers ahead.

In the most recent manga chapter 164, artist Yusuke Murata has created an opponent that is terrifying. Garou now pulsates with cosmic godlike energies. The mutated villain can mimic an opponent’s fighting style, including Saitama’s Serious Punch. Blast shrouded in mystery and ranked as the strong S class hero could do nothing to stop Garous assault. With a galaxy-level threat in front of him, the one-punch man held back again, hoping that Garou would choose his humanity over conquest.

A recurring theme in the series is that despite his insane strength Saitama is always too late in his endeavors. Murata uses this truth to obliterate one of the show’s most beloved characters. Attempting to goad Saitama into releasing his true power, Garou rips out Geno’s core killing him. With the blood of his closest friend soaked in his uniform manga readers can see the transformation. Someone that takes the hero business light hearted is in an intolerable situation.

The often rudimentary drawn character is all business chiseled resolve etched into black and white, structured with a new intimidating aura. Shortly after the murder of Genos Saitama uses a move that demonstrates how much power is locked away (Killer Serious Punch). Blast mentions that the level of energy exerted by the two could shatter the planet down to its core. Maybe even foreshadowing a change of scenery, Blast could send Saitama and Garou to an alternate dimension for an unrestricted bout.

Are you following the Magna religiously, maybe you caught a spoiler, be sure to leave a comment if you think Saitama could finally be in real trouble?

Anime

Animes Most Ferocious Fire Users

November 20, 2020 Jason Nichols Leave a comment

Fire burns, it’s hot, it ate a bad report card of mine once but most importantly it’s the element of interest when it comes to daydreaming of your preferred superpower. If you don’t share that enthusiasm you’re likely at least one third ice narwhal but still welcome to read on. There is arguably no better place to find some of the hottest fire flinging fictional examples (I did it again) than the murky world of anime.

With so many different anime universes it is a monumental task to try and rank them in terms of who carries the torch above all but you can confidently say here is seven of the biggest and hottest fire users that let their flames do the talking.

Itachi Uchiha (Naruto)

Coming from a sad albeit complicated background, a shinobi of Konohagakure‘s Uchiha clan gained infamy after murdering his entire family, saving only his younger brother Sasuke. It was only years later Sasuke would learn the decision made by Itachi rested solely with his motivation to save his life and the entire village .

Capable of releasing the highest level of fire technique, the Amaterasu. Unmistakable by the dark black flames the caster uses the Mangekyo Sharingan to summon a fire so hot it burns other fires. Amaterasu cannot be extinguished by conventional methods and Only Itachi and Sasuke can use Amaterasu. This impressive power can burn for 7 days and has been labeled as forbidden in the ninja world.

Enji Todoroki or Endeavor (My hero Academia)

Hailed as the current number one hero of Japan Endeavor is about as hot headed as his flames are, starting out as kind of a jerk and well abusive dad. Endeavors attitude stemmed from his drive to become the number one hero and usurp the former All Might. Succumbing to his obsession he has pushed himself and children to the utmost limits of their quirks, later realizing the error in this and cooling his attitude.

Using the quirk Hellflame Endeavor is able to generate and manipulate intense flames from his body surrounding himself in a shroud of fiery armor and even enhancing his strength and speed. By concentrating his flames into his fingertips the number one hero can mimic a plasma ray, his signature move Flash Fire vaporizes everything it touches slicing through steel and victims like butter.

Roy Mustang (Full Metal Alchemist (Brotherhood)

Known well as the Flame Alchemist Roy Mustang is a Lieutenant Colonel in the State Alchemist military government. Gaining status as a hero during the Ishvalan Civil War , Mustang utilized his unique flame alchemy to devastate the Ishvalan ranks. Initially he carries an attitude that is overly laxed and even lay about concerning his duties, beneath the surface a calculating and precise person Mustang is a born leader with a tactical intuitiveness that is surpassed only by his concern for the people he is sworn to protect.

Flame Alchemy allows the wielder to manipulate the density of oxygen around themselves by raising its levels in the air. Mustang uses this technique combined with a spark generated from his gloves to create varying degrees of fire based attacks and explosions. Capable of precision strikes like igniting the fluid in an enemies eye or incinerating a room of enemies while avoiding allies.

Shigekuni Yamamoto (Bleach)

Arguably the strongest Soul Reaper in soul society until of course being surpassed by Ichigo, as Captain Commander and the eldest shinigami his strength is surpassed only by his conviction. Toting the appearance of a frail old man Yamamoto is actually in incredible shape and will stop at nothing to ensure the Soul Society’s rule and laws are followed. He is known to show respect and almost admiration for powerful opponents.

Utilizing a powerful weapon known as the Zanpakuto Yamamoto possesses the strongest fire Zanpakuto ever in the soul society “Ryuujin Jakha”. A Shnigami has two obtainable levels (upgrades) to their power, a Shikai and Bankai. Ryujins Shikai release ability engulfs the sword and surrounding landscape into flames incinerating even clouds in the area, this Shikai command is, “reduce all creation to ash”. Releasing his Bankai Yamamoto has claimed that his body and sword are engulfed by flames hotter than the sun, vaporizing any matter touched.

Mereoleona Vermillion (Black Clover)

An imposing noblewoman of the house Vermillion, Mereoleona is a Royal Knight and stand-in Captain of the Flame Salamanders squad. Commanding respect, her sheer indomitable will is surpassed only by her fire magic abilities. Stated In the magnato possess an almost unobtainable level of power she is possibly the strongest human magic user alive.

Mereoleona draws her magic abilities from one of the highest tier Grimoires in the Clover Kingdom, a three leaf clover. She is capable of fully manipulating the fire element, even grabbing allies with her flame avatars causing no harm. Preferring to use spells complimenting her insane level of strength, Calidos Brachium surrounds the wielder’s fist in a fiery aura for strikes, engulfing them in flames. Merleonas equivalent of a power up she utilizes the surrounding mana outside her body for higher tier attacks, for finishing the toughest opponents implementing Calidos Brachium Purgatory; pouring all of her strength into a stream of punches that engulfs the entire area with flames.

Hiei (YuYu Hakusho)

Known as Jaganshi Hiei or “Master of the Evil Eye” Hiei is the coupling of a Fire Demon and an Ice Maiden, the Jagan later surgically implanted in his forehead. Ostracized from the demon race at a young age, Hiei considers himself a bit of a loaner and villain until switching sides to fight with his closest human comrade Yusuke. Towards the series end Hiei made the astronomical leap from low D class demony to the Deadly tier elite S class.

Coupling his demon and Jagan powers he alone can harness the power of his Dragon of the Darkness Flame technique. An overwhelming attack that summons black flames from the depths of the Spirit World and shapes it in the form of a black dragon that incinerates anything in its path. Capable of emitting the Dragon Wave in Jaganshi Form, this attack summons multiple Darkness Flame Dragons destroying everything around the user.

Benimaru Shinmon (Fire Force)

A member of the elite Special Fire Force since he was a boy Benimaru is an extremely gifted pyrokinetic user orphaned as a boy and later made heir to his adopted father Hibachi Shinmon. Short tempered but respected as a leader and capable fighter Benimaru has a lifetime of training laying fire demons or infernals to rest. He is openly regarded as the strongest Fire Officer in the Special Fire Force and is known as “Asakusa’s King of Destruction”.

Benefiting from being both a 2nd and 3rd generation pyrokinetic this means he is capable of both summoning intense flames and attacks but also control the flames of an external source. This combination allows for powerful explosive blasts, flight and the manipulation of combustion and heat proof barriers. A signature attack of Benimaru is the Crimson Moon’s Sun Wheel in which a ring of fire is placed behind the already large fire mass (moon) adding to the destructive power. This attack can easily overpower and obliterate an infernal.

Some honorable mentions that didn’t make this list but might make a top 10 in the future are; Portgas D Ace (One Piece), Sailor Mars (Sailor Moon), Charizard (Pokemon), Natsu Dragneel (Fairy Tale), Feitan (Hunter x Hunter) and Escanor the Lion Sin of Pride (Seven Deadly Sins.

Did this list have what you expected to see, was there a gaping hole in the anime knowledge that needs to be addressed? Leave your comments and suggestions below detailing a fire user that roasts with the best of them.

Gaming, News

Anthem Player Banned: Using Economic Exploits

March 30, 2019 Jason Nichols Leave a comment

A streamer by the name of Gladd posted a video on his Youtube channel voicing disapproval of Biowares decision to ban him from playing Anthem. The decision behind the ban was based on the use of “economic exploits”. He is known for streaming titles such as Destiny and Division, demonstrating methods of quickly and efficiently grinding out levels and gear.

Anthem’s looter shooter style of play allows players to quickly reach the current set level cap of 30, afterwards advancing through the Javelines power level by equipping gear and improving combat prowess. With any intensive play, grinding the time to find legendary and master level gear can prove to be challenging.

Gladd used an in game functionality to create a method for speeding up this process. By entering into free play mode players are able to set their own difficulty, using the grandmaster difficulty Gladd demonstrated how you can create a pre-planned flight route that is lined with easy to access loot chests. The higher difficulty and increased rate of finding chests almost guarantees players can find masterwork and legendary gear with considerably less effort.

Following the stream to his large fan base Gladd learned that he had been banned from Anthem, after already accruing substantial game hours.

As Bioware continues to unveil updates, players and fans can continue to count on improvements to the immersive world of Bastion. In the future developers will be faced with the difficult decision of: punishing fans for the use of in game functions or accepting the exploits fans make use of.

Gaming, News

Everything Players Need: From Read Dead Redemption 2’s Multiplayer Release

March 30, 2019 Jason Nichols Leave a comment

Read Dead Redemption’s Online Multiplayer is expanding in the best of ways, developers have kept one ear to the ground in terms of consumer and fan feedback. Purchasale wagons, boats, homesteads, businesses, weapons and mounts are just some of the tantalizing updates developer Rockstar has announced for future updates. While RDR2’s 23 million plus fans await the arrival of such content installments, online communities such as Reddit and Youtube are ablaze with ideas and suggestions on some of the critical things they feel need to be added.

Crafting Gear

Generating income and purchasable content may be some of the core issues that online players outline in posts concerning limitations with the beta currently. Craftable gear is an option that would help to resolve both of these immediate issues by capitalizing on the immersive world fans and player have come to enjoy. The story mode does have a crafting system in place that allows player to skin legendary animal’s and turn them into a tracker for creating unique garments. This is one of the more interesting and involved ways a player can customize their character adding an option that allows the outfits to be sold due to their rarity would create additional avenues for income.

Simply using legendary animals that spawn at a lower rate is something that would require less design work compared to creating a complete new system devoted to crafting clothing. Just as animals in game have a pelt ranking system from one star to three, legendary animal could be given a similar system that in turn create different types of clothing for each animal. At this time players are restricted to creating items such as tonics, cures, medicines, recipes etc. that are unable to be resold for a profit.

Meat Wagons

With the current limited set up for generating high dollar income in Read Dead Redemption 2’s multiplayer many players have found a niche in Rockstars well polished hunting system. The general process involves a player equipping the right weapons and ammo for a variety of animals that can be hunted/harvested and sold to the local butcher shops for a nice profit. Seasoned players develop a “keep everything system” and harvest any animal they find and re sell all the gathered parts without keeping any. Even this system has its limits, players are only able to carry one animal carcass at a time on horseback and if they dont mind a 15 minute real time walk one additional animal over their shoulder. This limits most players to hunting near the outskirts of towns to keep the method quick and efficient.

A quick fix to this dilemma would be a designated meat wagon designed to haul and store an additional number of small to large animal carcasses. Design variations could exist for players to assign a specific horse to a stabled meat wagon or allow these wagons to be hauled by current player horses. Furthering this improvement and expanding on content players could be allowed to purchase one directly from butcher shops to own and on the rare occasion stumble across one spawned in the open world.

Metal Helmet & Accessories

Any player that has braved a showdown series or gun rush series (any online PVP situation honestly) has felt the bitter sting left from the abuse of RDR2’s auto aim system. Players are able to almost instantly set their crosshairs to an enemy players head with little to no aim thanks to the current auto aim system. A minor adjustment is needed before the crosshairs are locked on to an enemy players head, by squeezing the left trigger the crosshairs will automatically be drawn to the nearest player within a limited range, the player then has to apply slight pressure to the right thumb stick to adjust the auto aim for a perfect headshot. This can be countered by turning off the feature, online players that play with traditional shooter aiming can feel they are at an unfair advantage in terms of friendly competition.

Taking a lesson from real life improvements in military gear shortly after the games set time period, one way to fix this would be adding a metal helmet that buffs against headshot damage. It should be mentioned there is a metal bucket accessory that has all the aesthetics of wooden teeth but it does nothing in terms of damage resistance. For design variance developers could strive for badges, metal playing cards, gun belts and such that can be added around the base of the players equipped hat to activate the damage buff. This of course means if a player is without a hat they are without the additional protection.

Job Opportunity

RDR2 encompasses breathtaking countryside and endless roaming opportunity but for high level players there is definitely room for wanting more content. Rockstar is not short on plans for there flagship title but the most immediate fix for a bored cowpoke is to develop some type of job opportunity for players. While hunting, fishing, bandit riding, stranger missions and train conducting are entertaining, they limit the fantastic world that is available to just a few repetitive farming and nostalgia tasks. The array of jobs that players could perform is wide with; cattle driving, transporting goods, player shooting competitions, high end good requests (meats, feathers, herbs) just to name a few

Developers could even consider a deputy system that allows players of high honor to employ as deputies, tracking down bounty contracts and assigned against NPC’s and players. This could be similar to the hit system that was introduced into GTA V that allowed players to assign hits on other players for a cash and experience reward.

If players can count on one thing from Rockstar it is the constant fluid change they invest in perfecting their products. As updates are released and the impending full multiplayer release approaches we can only hope to see some of the fantastic ideas fans have come up with make their way into the game.