On the 15^th of May 2014, the 53^rd Shizuoka Hobby Show was held at the Shizuoka Twin Messe at Shizuoka, the World Capital of Plastic Models! At this event, the latest in plastic model technology is displayed in the form of new plastic models. The first two days are open to the members of the Industry and press and already we have great news from the Gunpla section at the Bandai booth!

Here’s a sneak peek of the Bandai booth.

The first big news we got is the announcement of a new grade of Gunpla: REBORN-ONE HUNDRED!

This new line pursues more refined model kits parts and a highly detailed appearance. It is similar to the old NG and HG 1/100 scaled model kits with improved details. The first in the line is the very long awaited Nightingale from Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack – Beltorchika’s Children ! You can see it here in all of its majestic glory!

It is set to retail September 2014.

Future releases are already planned. The next two would be Gundam Mk-III (December 2014) from  Zeta Gundam Mobile Suit Variations and the GP04 Gerbera (March 2015)  from Mobile Suit Gundam: Encounters in Space! 

For the Master Grade announcement, the legendary rival of the Nightingale, the Hi-v Gundam, gets a Version Ka upgrade! I really like how the design inspiration for this version of the Hi-v Gundam seems to be taken from its original illustration! The MG Hi-v Gundam Ver Ka. is set to retail August 2014.

The Turn X from Turn A Gundam was also properly unveiled at the event for the first time. It has all the gimmicks you would expect it to have like in the show, with stand parts to display it doing its Bloody Seige attack and effect parts for its right hand manipulator.

It retails on June 14 2014.

There is a huge display featuring Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn as it reaches its conclusion on May 17^th 2014. All model kilts of series, old and new were displayed at the event. The first of them is the monstrous HGUC Neo Zeong, which will retail June 28 2014!

I got mine pre-ordered so definitely keep a lookout for the review!

Other upcoming model kits debuting in Episode 7 were shown with their full colors at the event such as the Zssa (June 21 2014) , Zeta Plus, Sturm Gallus (July 2014) and a updated version of the Rozen Zulu (August 2014)!

At the RG section, the recently released Gundam Exia from Mobile Suit Gundam 00 and the upcoming Char Z’Gok from Mobile Suit Gundam were displayed. The very first amphibious mobile suit in the RG line, it is recreated with lots of  attention to details like existing submarine and torpedo designs.

This high quality ultra-realistic design is only available in the RG line and its retailing in July 2014.

The next display is the Gundam Build Fighters section! All the model kits from the series are displayed as well as the new ones releasing in the upcoming months. During the next few months, the Gouf R35 (June 7 2014), Gundam Amazing Exia (August 2014), Gundam Fenice Rinascita (September 2014) and the 1/144 Variable Pod to create the Gyan Vulcan (July 2014)!

It was also announced that planning for the new Build Fighters series has begun, rejoice! While we probably won’t see much for the time being, we’ll probably get new information of the new series next year!

At the BB Senshi booth, the 9^th LEGEND BB was unveiled and it is none other than the Full Armor Knight Gundam (July 2014) equipped with all three relics. As for the regular SD BB Senshi line, we get the cute giant Neo Zeong (June 7 2014) and the Unicorn Gundam 03 Phenex (September 2014) from the Gundam Front Tokyo G-Dom Movie!

Here are the rest of the upcoming High Grade model kits, Gundam Airmaster (July 2014) from After War Gundam X and Zaku I (June 21 2014) from Mobile Suit Gundam Thundebolt!  Hopefully we’ll see more non-main mobile suit from subsequent series if the Airmaster is anything to show!

And that’s it for the upcoming Gunpla products for the upcoming quarter of the year. The next article will be the non-Gunpla Bandai plastic models and the last will be  the P-Bandai exclusives and the add-on parts! Stay tuned for the latest in Bandai’s plastic models showcase!

Which of these Gunpla are you excited to get? Share your thoughts below!

The post [JCOLLECTOR] 53rd Shizuoka Hobby Show Bandai Booth Highlights – I appeared first on AFA Channel!.

Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s concert on 21 June was nothing short of amazing, bizarre and just pure fun. Being the ever adventurous folks we are, some of us in the writers team went to find out what this was all about.

It comes to no surprise that since this concert is part of the Nanda Collection World Tour 2014, most of the songs (apart from a few all time favorites) were from her Nanda Collection album.

The Songs

She opened with Invader Invader and Mi. She just had to! You’d totally feel like you walked into something that Hoshimiya Kate set up. And I won’t blame you for thinking that way - Invader Invader did have a line saying (translated) “world domination” at the beginning anyways.

Some of the spectacular highlights of that concert were her songs that have an MV, and you can view them either at Warner Music Japan’s YouTube Page, or Kyary Pamyu Pamyu TV.

When Kira Kira Killer was performed, I was so ecstatic! I liked the song a lot and to hear it so early on in the concert (fourth song) just made it double nice! And then the next one to hit was something writer Akane Hayato was familiar with - Ninja Re Ban Ban!

Of course you would get Tsukematsukeru, Yumeno Hajima RinRin and the viral hit PonPonPon. Those were the songs that really got the audiences more active. I don’t claim to know how popular the Nanda Collection album is locally, but I know when I hear Super Scooter Happy, I get really happy cues vehicle ignition sound.

Overall, her songs are – as you’d expect – over the top and very cheerful and upbeat. Throughout the concert, you’d see constant light stick activity among the audience, as well as plenty of waving and clapping, and jumping. Take away the seats and get more people with light sticks or more glowy stuff and you will get a perfect rave!

The Concert

The thing about the concert is that there was so much to see and experience all at once! Dancers with fancy outfits, Kyary Pamyu Pamyu herself, the lights.

Plus, the Star Theater was an ideal place to jump around (there was enough room for four writers) at where we stood. Lean back a little and it’s the seats. In fact, the conditions were so good, I was beginning to think if it was too spaced out for a crowd surfer or two. It was still a nice place to watch the concert though!

The sets were fantastic. If you remember the press conference the day before, the set reproduces the look from some of her music videos! Do a little investigation on the web and you’d find that the set is quite similar to the USA leg of the tour too, so you’d know that having outrageous sets is a staple of KPP’s performances. Nice!

Conclusion

I have yet to experience Nana Mizuki’s concert yet, or the upcoming Anisong concerts for AFA 2014 (both in Indonesia and Singapore), but I’d say that so far, this was the best concert I have been to this year, and completely enjoyed myself. If KPP is coming to town to perform again, I’d definitely be there!

The post [REPORT] Kyary Pamyu Pamyu’s Concert in Singapore Was A Blast! appeared first on AFA Channel!.

As part of our Otome Game feature on common and popular character archetypes, we now bring you Part 2!

In our earlier feature (Part 1), we introduced the perky and fiery genki redhead, the all-so-reliable childhood friend, the too-cool-for-you-dude, the psychotic yandere and the adorable, fluffy shota. With the growing market of otome games, 5 common character types will never be enough to satisfy the refreshingly wild imaginations of fans.

After all, what better way to keep fans entertained than a relentless list of good boyfriend material?

In the diverse landscape of otome gaming, developers constantly develop diverse and rich landscapes, coupled with increasingly wild plots and intriguing characters to engage their audience. While one-dimensional character types may have worked their appeal in the past, players today are no longer easily satisfied.

Besides plot, the appeal of characters can be beefed up by overlaying multiple character types, in a simplified over-generalisation of achieving character depth. Upgrade a megane (“glasses”) character with a cool dude factor, and you instantly get more material to work with. Perhaps a yandere onii-chan? Or a flirty tsundere, an instant formula for success. How about a shota ore-sama to balance some overbearing ore-sama antics with a hint of cute?

The possibilities are endless…but maybe a flirty, glasses-touting, cool ossan (“uncle”) who turns out to be a yandere might be slightly overdoing it.

6. The megane

No game is ever complete without the megane (“glasses”) guy.

Although not a personality type, the humble pair of glasses has evolved into an essential part of every game and anime series out there. Perhaps born from fetishism, the appeal of the megane has spread far and wide,spawning fans who swear by the megane character.

The megane guy is typically cool, stoic, soft-spoken, studious and maybe a little geeky. He may be a lot of things, but definitely possesses the uncanny ability to raise the temperature of a room by just pushing his glasses up his nose bridge. More than a receptacle to correct questionably bad eyesight, the megane also serves to keep his overflowing charisma in check.

Upon removal of the megane, limitless charm is unleashed onto us mere mortals, who are weak in the face of megane moe. More often than not, the megane also provides a refreshing change of image to non-megane characters.

Often combined with: The cool dude
Almost never: none, the unassuming megane image is all-encompassing

7. The flirt

Ahhh..the flirt, a quintessential character in any game. Playfully seductive at times, the flirt engages in cheekily inane banter. Often gets dangerously close to your face, but hardly feels you up (sexual harassment is not tolerable in boyfriend material!).

Threatens to shatter the wine glass held between his deft fingers when he speaks in his characteristically sexy baritone voice. Always a good bet that he will be voiced by Suwabe Junichi. Although deceptively shallow and annoying at first glance, the flirt is usually just a defensive mechanism hiding a vulnerable, sensitive soul.

If you can withstand the garish pick-up lines and cliché courting gestures, shatter that defensive shell and you will be rewarded with a charming, honest, down-to-earth man for keeps!

Often combined with: The ossan
Almost never: The shota, the genki redhead

8. The “pedophile” ossan

You know you’ve seen it. The middle-age “uncle” who hovers in the background of your game in his long coat. Real-world common sense tells you to run in the opposite direction if he comes your way, but game-world sense tells you to look up at his chiselled-with-age features and swoon freely.

The ossan is always reliable, making all the mature adult decisions that the other character types fail to see (kch, kids!). His biggest mistake, of course, would be to fall in love with you.

He toes the line between beautiful forbidden love and being marked as a pedophile. Disturbingly, he often takes the form of a teacher, responsible for instructing you in the ways of life, but also failing to instill in you the dangers of frolicking with middle-aged men.

However, since otome gamers are not all teenagers themselves, feel free to love a highly dependable and hot ossan, especially when you tire of all the childish antics of teenage boys.

Often combined with: The megane, the flirt
Almost never: The shota

9. The ore-sama

Loud-mouthed and narcissistic by nature, the ore-sama can be a earful to handle.

The ore-sama may draw his overflowing arrogance from being obscenely rich or talented in various areas. This persona may also serve well as a loud and distracting cover for an inferiority complex. At first glance, the ore-sama may be a pain in the neck, but if you can deflect the insults and attitude, resist the urge to wring his neck long enough to reap the benefits.

After all, what can beat the thrill of beating (figuratively) such arrogance into submission? Once completely smitten with you, twist him around your little finger and expose all the insecurities. Go character development!

Often combined with: The ossan
Almost never: The genki redhead, the cool dude

10. The onii-chan

Preceded by the childhood friend, the onii-chan is an upgraded version of that role.

With unrivaled childhood familiarity and shared memories, the onii-chan represents the promise of eternal bonds from cradle to grave. Throw your inhibitions and concerns aside, as most PG-rated onii-chans are not related to you by blood. With your inhibitions on incestuous implications out of the window, the onii-chan represents the ultimate guardian angel.

If the relationship starts out cold, no worries, because your biggest conflict is probably confused feelings and familial intervention. If your relationship starts out and stays warm and fuzzy, beware!! You may soon find yourself on the yandere onii-chan route, which will probably end up with you gasps dead or imprisoned for life, all in the name of brotherly love.

Who said that love is not lethal?

Often combined with: The yandere
Almost never: every other character

With this, we wrap up our short feature of common and popular otome game character types. While we cannot possibly cover every character personality or archetype out there, we hope this was an amusing read for some. If you liked this, tell us what you think!

Dating simulation games were first developed for the male audience in the form of bishoujo games, or typically referred to as “galge” (short for gal game). The female counterpart, the otome game, was developed around a decade after.

As with dating simulation games, the general objective of the game is to establish relationships with the characters in the game, to trigger specific character scenarios, or just to move the plot forward in visual novel style. In the few otome games with less focus on the “romantic” or “dating” aspects the decisions made by the protagonist triggers different aspects of the overarching story for you to explore.

Image credit © Otomate (http://www.otomate.jp), Amazon Japan (http://amazon.co.jp)

The post [GAME] Otome Game Character Types: The Common and Popular (Part 2) appeared first on AFA Channel!.

In recent years with the increase of ease of internet access and the growing popularity in anime and manga hosting websites, has lead to billions in losses.

In an attempt to stop this trend, the Japanese government, in cooperation with 15 major anime production companies, will begin a large-scale operation against 580 foreign sites found to be uploading anime and manga contents onto the web without the permission of the copyright holders.

As reported by NHK (Japan Broadcasting Corporation) on 28 July. While the government supports the anime and manga industry as one of their important cultural exports, there appears to be no end of illegal uploads of anime and manga via pirate sites (mainly operated by the Chinese).

The Agency of Cultural Affairs estimates a loss of at least JPY 560 billion (6.81 billion SGD) per year caused by Chinese pirate sites alone, a report from the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) in 2014 indicates that the estimated cost of damage from online piracy to be as much as JPY 2 trillion yen (24.9 billion SGD) . Starting from 1st August, the Japanese government will simultaneously send requests to the operators of these 580 foreign pirate sites to delete/take down illegal anime and manga contents.

Adding on to this, METI will start to monitor and remove illegally uploaded copies of around 580 works over the period of 5 months. It is believed that with a decrease in piracy in the market and through fair rewards for legitimate contents, leading to the creation of new contents, it will help to generate a positive growth cycle.

In addition to this operation, they will be launching a new site, called “Manga-Anime here” to guide fans to legitimate sites offering some 250 titles including the latest ones at a cost of several hundred yen.

Taking countermeasures against the serious damage caused by piracy, the Manga-Anime Anti-Piracy Committee was formed in July 2013 in response to a proposal by METI, and subsequently launched the Manga-Anime Guardians Project (MAGP) to promote anti-piracy activities.

The MAGP has also posted a two-minute special promotional movie featuring “Arigato” (Thank You) messages from 42 different anime/manga characters, titled “Thanks, friends” on YouTube.

Even though this issue may not affect the Southeast Asia region, we here at AFACHAN would still highly recommend you to use legitimate broadcasting sites to stream anime such as DAISUKI, Crunchyroll and Funimation

Source: [ Crunchyroll | NHK | MAGP | METI ]

The post [Anime] Japanese Government to Increase Countermeasures Against Piracy appeared first on AFA Channel!.

AFAID 2014′s Creator’s Hub consist of over 58 art groups with over 60 booths to explore. This is the biggest gathering of dojin art groups in Indonesia.

Presenting, the Creator’s hub pledge!

- THE CREATORS’ HUB -

I AM THE BRAIN OF MY WORKS

PENCIL ON MY HAND, PAPER ON MY TABLE

A COMPUTER AS MY SAVIOR.

KNOWING PHOTOSHOP OR ILLUSTRATOR

I HAVE ENDURED SLEEPLESS NIGHTS OF WORK

YET MIGHT NEVER SEE COMPLETION

I HAVE NO REGRETS AND SO AS I PRAY

UNLIMITED CREATION WORKS!

The Exhibition hall of the AFAID 2014 is open from 10am to 9pm on Friday and 9am to 9pm on Saturday and Sunday. With 2 halls to play around with, this year’s festival is set to be very very interesting!!

Now, you can download the whole Creator’s Hub e-GuideBook ver.2(PDF): http://bit.ly/1zO9lMk

Or scroll down for a quick look of the groups that submitted their catalogue to the e-guidebook.

The post [AFAID 2014] Creator’s Hub Guide Book appeared first on AFA Channel!.

Image Credit: LiSA’s Facebook

AFAID 2014 has come and gone, but there is still a huge upcoming event that should not go under the radar.

On this Saturday 23 August 2014, there will be an intimate live session with the one and only LiSA! The rock princess had made waves with songs like Crossing Field (Sword Art Online Opening Theme 1), Oath Sign (Fate Zero Opening Theme 1), Träumerei (Gen’ei wo Kakeru Taiyou Opening Theme) and the Opening Theme for the currently airing anime, Mahouka koukou no Rettousei. She will be gracing fans us with her stunning presence in a 1-day performance in collaboration with AFA Indonesia.

This event is a rare treat for fans outside of Japan because LiSA will be holding an extremely rare Unplugged live performance! Thus, in anticipation of this upcoming concert, I will be listing a number of things that are going to happen and why these are so important, especially if you are a die hard LiSA fan.

The concert will be held at the Upperroom in Jakarta, a small and intimate venue where you can feel much closer to LiSA.

• If you’ve been to a live performance with a large venue, you’ll know that it feels a lot less personal when you’re just a speck in the crowd. This is why this particular event is going to be such a treat for the fans. With a smaller venue, it means you’ll get to be that much closer to LiSA, and that close proximity will give you an experience like no other, a guaranteed experience of a lifetime.

There will be exclusive concert merchandise sold at the venue! Get them fast and while stocks last!

• Like a trophy or a medal, concert merchandise is your proof of attendance. Sure to make your friends turn green with envy, you can flaunt your experience in style with various apparel and goods that’s sure to be very coveted commodities amongst fans. Be wary though, you should probably hurry down if you want to avoid disappointment!

There will be copious amounts of fan interaction and the opportunity to have LiSA answer your questions!

• What better way to learn about LiSA than from LiSA herself? A few questions selected from those submitted by her fans will be answered at the concert. Don’t miss this rare opportunity to hear her answer your questions in earnest!

This is an extremely exclusive unplugged live event, the likes of which have not been seen outside of Japan.

• This is important so I’ll say it again. This is something that has not happened outside of Japan ever before. Do you want to be among the first people outside of Japan to experience this magic? Of course you do!

Last but not least, should you attend this event, you will receive a signed LiSA poster, handed to you by LiSA herself!

• Even in Japan, signed goods or autograph sessions are few and far between. As a fan, one simply cannot miss this chance of a lifetime. That’s right, a poster that is signed by hand, given to you personally by LiSA. Just let that awesome fact sink in, but not for too long because there’s not many tickets left! Get them before you lose this excellent opportunity to spend a glorious afternoon with LiSA!

Image Credit: LiSA’s Facebook

If you are still looking for that final reason to convince yourself to grab that plane ticket down to Jakarta to catch this special showcase, just check out LiSA’s special message for her fans:

The post [J Music] 5 Compelling reasons to catch LiSA’s Special Event in Jakarta appeared first on AFA Channel!.

LiSA at the Upperroom, Jakarta

Last weekend, LiSAkko’s from all over were treated to a spectacular 90 minutes solo live in Jakarta, which was a particularly intimate event given the cosy venue. This was a very special event because fans were able to see LiSA up close and personal, with the front row only about two or three metres away from her! Even the audience members holding general admission tickets had a very good view of her, as opposed to being restricted to watching a screen or projector feed.

Early in the day, fans turned up many hours before the actual event, perhaps to either buy tickets on the spot (on-site ticketing opened at 10 am) or to camp for their desired LiSA merchandise. The main crowd started to turn up right before the start of the sale of merchandise and for good reason. After all, we already know that the exclusive concert merchandise are must-buys!

Merchandise booth

This proved only too true as the first item to be sold out (only just half an hour after sales commenced), was the LiSA Landspace Light Stick. Priced at 220000 rp (approx S$23), it flew off the shelves like hot cakes and soon enough, when sales staff announced that only 2 remained, this evoked a huge collective moan of disgruntlement. Other goods that were being sold included towels, T-shirts, tote bags, music CDs, LiSA trading cards and key chains.

Upon entering the event hall, one could truly feel that the chosen venue was really made for intimate interaction between the artistes on stage and the audience. A cosiness that is rarely found in live venues, as well as the excellent acoustics of the hall set the stage for an event of epic proportions. Though there was a slight wait to be had, the atmosphere of the place was palpable. The audience combined anticipation was overwhelming, increasing steadily as time elapsed.

The curtains rise!

Figuratively speaking of course, as there were no curtains to be seen. Instead, the lights dimmed and all the anticipation from the crowd exploded into raucous cheer and applause. As the stage lights switched on, we’re greeted by the sight of Momoco the frog sitting on a table in the middle of the stage.

The event emcee then came on stage to give an introduction of the event, much to the chagrin of the already hyped up audience. Thankfully, the emcee could read the atmosphere, so he kept it brief. Following his exit, an energetic LiSA with her hair cutely done in twin tails bounded onto the stage to an electrically charged crowd with her opening song, Crossing Field.

LiSA immediately took over the stage with her commanding stage presence with this song, charging straight into one of her most popular songs to date. Instead of her band, LiSA had an instrumental backing track playing for this song.

CO-K, Guitarist for the event.

After Crossing Field, LiSA‘s guitarist for the event, 高慶”CO-K”卓史 (Koukei “CO-K” Takafumi) went on stage to join her for her acoustic songs. LiSA did a quick introduction for him, and went straight into the next track, an acoustic version of Waratte Hoshikute from her second album, LOVER”S”MiLE.

Now in my opinion, this is always one of the things I look forward to in LiSA’s lives, her crowd interaction song! This time, the song she used for this was Say My Name no Kataomoi. With dancers to help her with the demonstration of the little sequence, she did her skit in the most adorable fashion, which is to say, in her slightly coy, teasing manner when the crowd fails to accurately mimic the dance moves. Starting with a slow rendition of the beat, she draws the audience in gradually and let’s everyone have a few tries before she picks it up and resumes the song.

After the fun little number, LiSA whipped out one of her most iconic songs from Angel Beats, Ichiban no Takaramono. This song is perfect for the acoustic live and it also showcases her incredibly powerful vocals. Her masterful singing resulted in a soulful, slightly bitter-sweet and overall just immaculate song performance. It was emotionally moving, her every expression and gesture captivating the audience. A slightly prolonged pause before the final chorus felt like an eternity, which goes to show how enrapturing her performance was.

Q & A time!

The emcee makes his way back onto the stage and the audience starts murmuring, signalling that it’s time for the much anticipated Question and Answer session. A handful of those who had their questions picked were present, but for those who didn’t turn up for whatever reason, I’m sure you’re glad your question was picked!

The questions chosen to be answered covered a wide variety of topics. Casual ones, such as “What is LiSA’s favourite colour?” and “What is your favourite food in Japan?” were straightforward enough. The former was answered in a rather nonchalant manner, “Everyone already knows!” as she gesticulated at the crowd, many of which were waving their pink light sticks frantically in answer. (Also, her favourite food in Japan is Ramen!)

Other questions that followed were more insightful, such as “What does L. Miranic mean?” L. Miranic is the title of a song from her 6th single due to be released next month. It turns out that the title of the song is an anagram of the word “Criminal” and is meant to be a name, dubbed Ms. L. Miranic.

Other things that came to light include the fact that LiSA likes cleaning (such as cleaning and tidying her room); that she intends to watch the Doraemon movie when she gets back to Japan; that her childhood dream was to be a magician and that she listens to Disney songs such as those from Frozen. LiSA seems to be quite the Disney aficionado, as she was apparently inspired by Belle from Beauty and the Beast to start a career in music.

Live Redux

After the Q & A, LiSA dived straight back into the action with the opening theme of Gen’ei wo Kakeru Taiyou, Träumerei. This was followed by BRiGHT FLiGHT, LiSA‘s new single that is scheduled for release on 17 Sep 2014.  These songs were all played with instrumental backing tracks, which upped the tempo tremendously to a fever pitch. LiSA probably felt the heat in the venue as well, resulting in her taking off her vest between songs.

Needless to say, this LiSA live would not be complete without Rising Hope, the opening theme of Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei. Proclaiming this to be the last song, she nevertheless spared no bit of energy in her performance as the crowds’ cheers reached deafening levels. Showing no signs of fatigue, the audience brimmed with vigour as they rocked out with LiSA, demonstrating their limitless spirit and unbridled passion.

ENCORE

Before LiSA had even made it off-stage, the ecstatic audience launched into thunderous アンコール (Encore) calls, which lasted for about 3 minutes. In a gorgeous kimono-style costume, LiSA once again graced the stage, bringing with her CO-K to continue with the unplugged performance in the encore. Before that though, she had a few words to say to the turnout, including showing her appreciation for the banner than the Indonesian LiSAkkos had brought along. She also asked for a photograph session with her lovely admirers to which the audience was all too happy to oblige.

She also teased a special announcement that would be made at 9 pm on the day itself, which would go up at around the same time as the group photo. The special announcement is on LiSA’s official Facebook page so be sure to check that out!

From LiSA Special event in Jakarta, taken from LiSA’s Facebook page.

After that was all settled, the encore proceeded with an acoustic rendition of Oath Sign. Finally, an acoustic arrangement of Crow Song from Angel Beats! warpped up the entire live. Crow Song was an excellent song to finish the day, ending it on a sweet and high note. Everyone loves a song where there’s a sing-along segment. As the song goes, “Crow to utau yo!” (Sing along with the crow!)

Signed Poster give away

Concert goers still had more to look forward to! LiSA personally handed out a signed poster to everyone in attendance! This gave attendees a brief opportunity to speak with LiSA… Those few seconds could allow one to make a lasting impression on her! Without a doubt, this would be an event that will never be forgotten by everyone who managed to attend. Additionally, a LiSA badge was given out for filling in a post event survey form. The takeaways from this event were not only memories, but also tangible goods to enjoy as well.

Don’t you wish you were there? I’ll bet you do now!

Overall, this was a one-of-a-kind event that anyone would have enjoyed thoroughly. Any non-LiSA fans in attendance would almost certainly be LiSAkko converts by now. Her stage presence and charisma, coupled with her outstanding live performance would have won over even the most hard-boiled and stoic person. Everyone can tell that she gives her all when she performs, even going the extra mile to speak to the local audience in Bahasa Indonesia.

So, if you’re reading this and have yet to see a live performance by LiSA, make it a point to attend one whenever you can! She will leave you craving for more!

The post [JMusic] Live is Spectacular, Always! LiSA Special Event in Jakarta coverage appeared first on AFA Channel!.

Are you planning a trip to Tokyo this year end and have no idea where to go? Are you a fan of Studio Ghibli?

You might want to consider popping over to the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum in Koganei-park. Approximately 40 minutes away from the main city centre, the museum is running an exhibition on the architecture in Studio Ghibli’s works.

The exhibition opened in Jul 2014 and will continue to run till 14 Dec 2014. It features production materials such as background and architectural illustrations from the (arguably) first Studio Ghibli film, “Kaze no Tani no Naushika” (Nausicaä of the Valley of the Wind) to the latest “Omoide no Marnie” (When Marnie Was There). In addition, three-dimensional miniature models of the most iconic buildings in the films are on exhibit as well.

Expect to see models of nostalgic scenes such as the bathhouse from “Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi” (Spirited Away) and Laputa’s castle in “Tenkuu no Shiro Rapyuta” (Laputa: Castle in the Sky).

It is the unique features of Studio Ghibli’s architecture that attract and transport the audience into the world of animation in these films. The curators wish that exhibition-goers can enter these beloved worlds viscerally through this exhibition.

On Wednesday, 11 Sep 2014, the exhibition welcomed its 100,000th visitor. University students studying in Tokyo, Miharu Takeuchi (19) and Haruki Sasaki (18).

Each received a special memorabilia at a commemorative ceremony – an illustration drawn by director of “Omoide no Marnie” (When Marnie Was There), Hiromasa Yonebayashi. Popular mascots from the films were there to grace the ceremony as well, Totoro from “Tonari no Totoro” (My Neighbour Totoro) and No-Face from “Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi” (Spirited Away).

Catch the exhibition before it’s over!

Exhibition Details

Opening time:

July-September 2014: 0930-1730
October-December 2014: 0930-1630
Closed every Monday

Entrance fee:

Adult: 400 yen
Elderly (65 years and above): 200 yen

Directions

Source: Museum | Oricon Style

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The team at AFA Channel made their way down to Gunpla Expo Singapore 2014 last week! This year’s Expo will be at Bugis+ from the 10^th to the 21^st at the 2^nd floor Atrium. While it isn’t as long length wise as last year’s it is pretty spacious this year, with lots of walking room in between exhibits. There’s quite a number of displays of new and old models as well so do come down and check them out!

As mentioned in the previous article, with two concurrently airing Gundam anime airing at the same time, this means we get to see quite a number of new upcoming Gunpla, and featured as well! Debuting in the HG Build Fighters line, here are the new models of the protagonists from Gundam Build Fighters Try:

They’re looking pretty good! The first release from this line is scheduled to be out sometime in October, the HGBF Build Burning Gundam. Personally I really like the Lightning Gundam with its cool Zeta-esque/Re-GZ design it has! The Winning Gundam and the GM Cardigan will be following after while the HGBF Gundam Fenice Rinascita from the original Build Fighters will be releasing next week in Japan!

You can also check out the awesome Build Fighters 3D Mapping display! It’s a feature that combines actual Gunpla with a moving video featuring the Gunpla in action similar to how they would appear in the anime. You should go check it out in person!

And here are the new unique models from Gundam: Reconguista in G! I really like these designs. Can’t pick one out of these four but definitely will be looking forward to all the releases. The G-Self will be releasing next week, same time as the Fenice Rinascita so expect to see a review of the HG Gundam G-Self!

There’s also other booths featuring new upcoming model kits from Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack: Beltorchika’s Children, an RG Gunpla showcase, the PV for Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin I: The Blue Eyed Casval, Gundam Duel Company and lastly a Gundam 35th Anniversary MG model showcase!

I do like the MG model showcase, shows us all the awesome protagonist mobile suit models from the beginning to the latest release!

I hope there will be a screening for Gundam The Origin in Singapore next year as well. There are other showcases around the Expo like the Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn feature with the massive HGUC Neo Zeong on display, the Expo limited models only for sale at Gunpla Expo and the giant life sized versions of the Build Strike Gundam and the Beargguy III too!

Found some models you’re eyeing? All gunpla are on sale at 20% off so it’s a good time to get some if you’ve been holding out. You could also get those event exclusives if they peak your interest. There are a few rare models and metallic kits only on sale at Gunpla Expo if they are to your fancy too!

This is it for the first part of the Gunpla Expo showcase, the second part will be featuring the Gunpla Builders World Cup entries! Hope you all are excited to see this year’s entries!

The post [EVENT] Gunpla Expo SG 2014 Roundup appeared first on AFA Channel!.

Seven Eleven Japan announced on Tuesday, November 11th that it would be producing a one of a kind car based on the Neon Genesis Evangelion Series. It has been announced that pre-orders will be accepted from this Friday (14th November) till the end of November.

Given that only one such car is being produced, the winner will be decided by a lucky draw.

The car is priced in at ¥16 million- Whew! But then again it is to be expected. Evangelion is one of the most well known anime of the decade and lets not forget the little detail that the car is going to be based on Mitsuoka Motor Company‘s Orochi Supercar.

Seven Eleven has often partnered with many different production houses to promote Anime merchandise but this might be their biggest venture yet!
Ikuto Yamashita who has been involved in the design of robots in the Evangelion Series is in charge of designing the vehicle.

If you are in Japan, I seriously recommend you visit Seven Eleven,  Lawson and Family Mart as they almost always have an anime promotion going on at one time or the other.

The post [JTECH] SEVEN ELEVEN JAPAN LAUNCHES EVANGELION CAR appeared first on AFA Channel!.

“What I want for Christmas” is a series featuring the wants from the writing crew of AFA Channel.
We don’t know if the the writers will get what they want? But here is the wants from our general Japanese news writer, Just_me!

If I really could have anything I wanted for Christmas, I would like Doraemon’s Dokodemo Door or the Transporter from Star Trek.

That way, I could always take off at a moment’s notice to go hangout in Japan and catch all the lives and attend all the anime / manga / toy conventions, events and exhibitions that I’ve always wanted to go to but could not afford the time and cost to go.

The transponder room from Star Trek The Next Generation

Picture by MIKI Yoshihito, https://www.flickr.com/photos/mujitra/6779016749/in/photostream/

But that’s impossible since neither of those items exist in real life, then here’s what I really want. I would like Kalafina to return to Singapore next year for a live, or even better, Kajiura Yuki comes to Singapore with FictionJunction and the Front Band Members for a live too.

However, that may also be hard to achieve, so I guess I will settle for Kalafina’s Christmas Box 2014. This year, not only are they releasing the Christmas ornaments that each member of the trio produces, they are also releasing a blanket.

Kalafina have held a Christmas Premium Acoustic live each year since 2011 and this Christmas Box is being released as the main live good to get at this event.  The box contains the popular Christmas tree ornaments that each member produces each year. This year’s version will be 8 x 8 cm in dimension and comes in sparkly pink gold.  The box will also contain a blanket that is soft to the touch and measures 60 x 90 cm and comes with a Kalafina tag which is 6 x 3.5 cm.  And finally, packed into this sturdy 8 x 22 x 7 cm box is a Christmas card from the trio.

This is the prefect gift for any Kalafina fan to help them get though the freezing air-conditioning conditions in Singapore!!  IMAGINE…. a hardcore Kalafina fan, like me, wrapped up all nice and warm as I snuggle down with a hot cup of hot chocolate and envelope myself further aurally with their awesome music playing in the air….. ahhhhhhh….. Seventh Heaven!!

source: FictionJunction Club

The post [Commentary] Just_me’s – What I want for Christmas. appeared first on AFA Channel!.

“What I want for Christmas” is a series featuring the wants from the writing crew of AFA Channel.
We don’t know if the the writers will get what they want? But here is the wants from our producer, Tueac!

First allow me to wish everyone a Merry Christmas!  2014 has been a blessing, fun and plenty of travelling~

Here is a christmas song for you, by Goosehouse.

As the office will be having a half-day followed by my long due holiday, I have offered to submit my article. In the coming year of 2015, the company I’m working for, SOZO will be very busy with many activities in the Singapore and the countries around the region. These includes the Anime Festival Asia in Indonesia, Thailand and Singapore.

Something like this but you can actually walk through,

Thus for Christmas this year, I would really like for something like a instant transporter, again, like what Just_me requested, we all know that is but a dream for the next decade or more… So I might have it if I’m lucky in this lifetime.

In replacement, I would like to have a copy of SAKANACTION’s album, SAKANACTION, released March 2013. It was their latest album to date and contains quite a few of my favourite tunes. Now here is a question, why haven’t I gotten it?

Well in part I’m waiting for their 2015 release, I’m actually also looking at their Live Blu-ray, “Sakanaquarium 2013 Sakanaction: Live at Makuhari Messe 2013.5.19″ which would cost me a bomb. Here’s a confession, I might just be too lazy to make my purchase…

Why I want it? As I’ve mentioned, I really enjoyed their tunes. Here are some samples, “sakanaction”, “bokutohana” and “Inori”.

How isit? Won’t you agree that the music is quite interesting? I have taken a liking to it due to it’s catchy and uplifting music, I’m sure the lyrics would be equally as interesting. To be frank, I seldom follow an artiste for their looks or with the trend. But should they have a piece of good music, I’m all for it~

As such, I don’t think anyone will be getting me the above mentioned, so It might be time to set aside some funds for it!

Video courtesy of Victor Youtube Channel

Website: http://sakanaction.jp/top.php

The post [Commentary] Tueac’s – What I want for Christmas. appeared first on AFA Channel!.

To continue our tribute to the long run of epic manga Naruto, here is Part 2 dedicated to all the bad ass male characters, whether they be young, old, honourable or grumpy. Here they are ready to blow up some towns and more!

Phantom of Devil as Naruto

An impressive shot from Phantom of Devil, she shows off her entire outfit with kanji written all over the lining in a flap composite and with more elaborate face paint. Phantom of Devil crossplaying as Naruto keeps it real with the look of defiance and arrogance in her demeanor.

BehindInfinity as alternative Naruto

A slightly pensive Naruto is next by BehindInfinity, I particularly liked this cosplay as he decided to go with a creative whim and made a concept outfit of what he believed Naruto would wear as the next Hokage.

Iiruka Umino by Raruha, Naruto Unknown

This photo really gives me the Naruto anime feels from one of the key scenes in the first series. Most fans will know this whether or not they stayed on till the end of the series. This cosplay features the charming Iiruka Umino by Raruha, showing kindness to the brash Naruto, as we feel the warmth of the friendship and the noodles in this scene.

Uchiha Sasuke by Zettai-Cosplay

There are just so many pretty boy cosplays of Sasuke, the rival to our beloved Naruto! I was looking for that signature anger and tension in Sasuke’s face which is perfectly demonstrated in Zettai Cosplay‘s gaze. He holds the burden of the Uchiha family by himself…

Dobe by Anokaba

The entire composition fits Anokaba‘s style and Dobe is very nicely portrayed. This is one of the few natural shots I chose from a crowded convention background, and frankly speaking smoking should alway be done outside!

Kakashi by Kohanekurobosh

The ultimate pretty boy, Young Kakashi as portrayed by KohaneKurobosh. I was driven to find this cosplay after hearing about Kakashi’s background story. Even though this photo has been through a lot of manipulation, but it really does not take away from the perfect likeness of Kakashi.

Jiraiya by Eji

Never have plushies have come in so handy when posing with a large frog just isn’t feasible, Jiraiya is caught unaware reading his cheeky books quietly with his minions, good job Eji!

Rock Lee by MIUX

One of the more popular cosplays for Rock Lee. MIUX certainly knows how to keep it jovial with Lee, and everything about her face structure down to the lenses are spot on, even down to the absence of cheek definition.

Chouji by Akiyame

I could not find a page for cosplayer Akiyame, but he deserves a shout out for being a great lookalike for Chouji without even trying. These effortless cosplays are simply the best, no photoshopping, no overdone poses, just keeping it real.

The post [COSPLAY] Naruto: Badass Ninjas appeared first on AFA Channel!.

The AFA Channel team is expanding! And now is your chance to join our team and gain some valuable experience while sharing your passion in the anime sub-culture to our readers.

We are looking for writers to join us as an associate writers in various segments, including:

• Anime/Manga
• Anisong & JPOP
• Cosplay
• Idol and Seiyuu
• Japanese Culture
• Merchandises (Figure & Character Goods)

You ARE the right person for this position, if you:

• Enjoy various aspect of the anime sub-culture or if you love Japan!
• Are always approached by your friends who ask you to update them on the latest happening in the anime, gaming, JPOP industry
• Are the kind of person that could not stop checking facebook, twitter and other social media so you can be updated on the latest happenings
• Love to write about and share the latest and most interesting.

Benefits of being an Associate Writer for AFA Channel:

• Share your knowledge and love for anime as well as Japanese Pop Culture
• Opportunities to attend exclusive events (e.g. anime and movie previews)
• Additional benefits will be revealed to short-listed candidates

So are you excited about joining us? Apply to Join us as an Associate Writer today!

If you know your friend or family member who is suitable for this position, do share the link with them too!

The post [RECRUITING] Join Our Team of Associate Writers! appeared first on AFA Channel!.

This past weekend on the 8th of February, the Winter Wonder Festival 2015 (Wonfes) took place at Makuhari Messe at Chiba. I made my way back to Makuhari Messe once again for this event!

The main feature of Wonfes is for people to display and sell their garage kits. These garage kits are normally sculptures and/or figures that are usually based off already existing anime or game characters or mechas. Normally these figures are really highly detailed and only made in small quantities. This event is also used by the biggest figure production companies to display their newest up and coming products for the general audience to look forward to as well.

I tried my best, and here’s what I managed to take! There’s just so many figures to choose from, we’re literally spoiled for choice! Here’s a smorgasbord of all the latest upcoming scaled figures, goods, plastic models and figurines coming up in the next few months ahead!

Figures from the Medicom section, Cu-poche and RIOBOT series.

New T-Shirts from AmiAmi, scaled Gundam Girls, KanColle figures from Bandai  and a Tharsis from Aldnoah Zero!

Some figures from Union Creative, JoJo figures from Medicos Entertainement included the long awaited Jonathan Joestar and Dio Brando from JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure. There’s also figures from a stage event by Mafia Kajita and Makoto Kedouin with a suprise appearance by Tomokazu Sugita!

Some custom Gunpla by Dengeki Hobby, Revoltech figures and spaceships from Space Battleship Yamato! And finally the LoveLive! and Kantai Collection figures!

Here’s some of the few that I personally liked looking at the event. Some great Kantai Collection figures coming up soon as well as an awesome mockup of the game at the Good Smile booth! There was a fantastic looking Motoko Kusanagi from Ghost in the Shell too! I’m personally excited for the Dio Brando coming in July ^^

Lastly, I did manage to snap a few photos of cosplayers roaming the grounds before my camera died from the excessive picture taking from the main booths! They’re pretty great!

Well I hope you have enjoyed this Wonfes preview post! Was there any figure you really liked that wasn’t shown? Share your thoughts below!

The post [EVENT] Winter Wonder Festival 2015 Report appeared first on AFA Channel!.

Welcome to the all-new AFAChan exclusive article series – Hige’s Akiba (アキバのヒゲ)!

You might be wondering what’s a Hige’s Akiba, who is Hige, and what he might be doing in Akihabara. This new series will feature daily photos of Akihabara, be it new billboards for upcoming anime, events that may be taking place or other interesting pictures of happenings around Akiba. From time to time I may post other interesting events that is taking place around Tokyo or in different prefectures when I’m away from Tokyo. As for Hige? That would be me, your writer of this article who will be based here for the foreseeable future trying to achieve my dreams of become a seiyuu!

I hope you’ll enjoy this new series of daily posts!

First up is the Akihabara x PSYCHO-PASS Search event – Find Shinya Kogami! This event is a stamp rally for the PSYCHO-PASS movie that has been airing in theatres around Japan since early January. In this event, fans would go search around different areas of Akihabara to collect stamps. In collecting all 6 stamps, return to Atre Akihabara and proceed to the special booth in order to receive a special original clear bookmark. After doing so, fans need to proceed to the designated area on Atre Akihabara 1F and search for Kogami at this booth.

Once you find the keyword, leave a message on Twitter to enter a contest. The special prize is a signed present by the seiyuu of Kogami Shinya – Tomokazu Seki himself! I personally haven’t done the Kogami search yet, but I would definitely like to win a Tomokazu Seki sign! The event has been going on since 13 Jan and will end this Sunday on 15 Feb 2015!

There’s this really interesting poster that went up recently around Akihabara. Looks somewhat familiar, could this be a teaser for a new season of Is The Order a Rabbit? (Gochuumon wa Usagi desu ka?). I must say that the billboard placing is somewhat funny as the old man on the DMM billboard seems to be eargerly looking towards the GochiUsa board. Perhaps he is interested in a new season as well?!

The post [JAPAN] Hige’s Akiba (アキバのヒゲ) – 14/02/2015 appeared first on AFA Channel!.

Welcome to the Monday edition of Hige’s Akiba! Let’s check out what’s around Akihabara today~

Monday mornings are pretty lull, so there isn’t much to see around the main street but there’s been a couple of new album releases. One of them caught my attention at Gamers’

Gamers have recently put up a section and standee for Yuuki Aoi’s 1st album – Ishmael! It went on sale last Wednesday! The bonus included with this album from Gamers looks really nice too, I should pick up mine soon being a fan of her’s. I must say Gamers did a pretty good job with this display. The flowers really complement the entire section and the Yuuki Aoi standee is pretty cute, wish I could bring it home with me ^^; Here’s the PV for one of the new songs; Earl de Collage La Mirage

Pretty catchy huh? Perhaps I’ll return later in the day and pick up my copy!

The post [JAPAN] Hige’s Akiba (アキバのヒゲ) – 16/02/2015 appeared first on AFA Channel!.

Categories: Articles JAPAN Tags: beefchickeng gundamgod fingergundam cafehige's akibalunch Welcome again to Hige’s Akiba! Today’s feature would be about an interesting lunch experience. Its been quite some time since I last posted about Gundam (Im sorry) so i’m making it up with lunch at Gundam Cafe! This meal is meant for 2 people but somehow I managed to finish it by myself. 俺のこの手は真っ赤に燃える！勝利をつかめと轟叫ぶ。爆熱、ゴッドンフィンガー！ That’s […] (Read more...)

The post [JAPAN] Hige’s Akiba (アキバのヒゲ) – 17/02/2015 appeared first on AFA Channel!.

Categories: JAPAN Tags: arcadeBandai Namcofightingheihachihige's akibakazuyatekken 7 The latest Hige's Akiba features a very popular fighting game! (Read more...)

The post [JAPAN] Hige’s Akiba (アキバのヒゲ) – 19/02/2015 appeared first on AFA Channel!.

In today’s Hige’s Akiba I took a trip to a bookstore for the first time. Situated at the corner of a crossing just nearby the famous Yodobashi Akihabara is the Shosen Book Tower! This multi-storey building houses all sorts of books- ranging from your typical manga and magazines too self help books and more! Each floor is divided based on similar categories and I found myself inside there for a good hour or two!

There’s huge sections dedicated to famous series such as the ever popular Gundam. There’s even some novels which I haven’t seen in a long time like Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway’s Flash!

There’s even a huge section for magazines related to KanColle as well as merchandise for fans to purchase along with the books. I even found Dougram, Votoms and Mazinger Z manga. Boy, imagine how old those manga could be? Is there any manga here that fancy your eyes? Or perhaps something you’ve been wanting to buy for a long time?

The post [JAPAN] Hige’s Akiba (アキバのヒゲ) – 20/02/2015 appeared first on AFA Channel!.