(Link – Safebooru)

(All images taken from Safebooru and my other blog articles. Enjoy!)

Why seven? When I first started this my YouTube embedded plugin wouldn’t allow me to post more than 7, now it can. Either way, I’m sharing seven to keep things simple and to share the Anime I actually liked and still enjoy remembering.

I would also like to apologize if the YouTube embeds die on me, I have no control over those. As you may or may not know there are idiots claiming copyright forcing the video(s) to be pulled. It pisses me off but I can’t do much about it.

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Related Articles:

- Round 6:
http://ghostlysubstance.swgbex.com/Blog/?p=2302

- Round 5:
http://ghostlysubstance.swgbex.com/Blog/?p=2166

- Round 4 – Kitsunes:
- http://ghostlysubstance.swgbex.com/Blog/?p=1976

- Round 3:
http://ghostlysubstance.swgbex.com/Blog/?p=1730

- Round 2:
http://ghostlysubstance.swgbex.com/Blog/?p=1154

- Round 1:
http://ghostlysubstance.swgbex.com/Blog/?p=928

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1) – Last Exile: Fam the Silverwing:
http://myanimelist.net/anime/10336/Last_Exile:_Ginyoku_no_Fam

(Link – Safebooru)

I loved the first season that I wanted a second season, or a game. Luckily the producers of the first Last Exile decided to make a second season  – this Silver Wing Fam anime. It goes without saying that I instantly followed it, notifying others with similar interests. It was worth the wait, worth the watch, and a nicely made sequel to the original. Sadly, our Anime fans don’t know their left from their right when it comes to awesome Anime forcing this anime to be “sleeper-hit”.

Fam was well worth the watch with the numerous ship battles, the awesome hockey game on the “ship” (minor spoiler), the underground Vanship race, and the hi-jacking of ships. All the new additions of newer and a handful of older ones to please those that enjoy drooling at ship designs. There is obviously more that I love yet they fall under spoilers meaning that I can’t really mention them.

The whole universe Last Exile exists in (the far future) is a nice world where you may wish to live for the sake of flying steam-punk vehicles.

Surprisingly, there actually was light fan-service scattered around the whole series. Just some slight hidden nudity here and there, some slight loli teases, and such. Nothing major. Glad it was done very tastefully.

Fam & Giselle made the Anime feel more light-hearted and more comical which was a nice addition. All the adventuring, pirating, and the struggles made it well worth the watch, though not for those seeking pure combat anime. Seeing Fam constantly push & pull people around the sky truly brought out the flight within me. Such a vast under-appreciated environment, like this Anime, welcoming those that want to experience the beauty from above.

Quite uppity and cheerful, wanting to get things done when others couldn’t or didn’t want to accomplish the tasks at hand. Seeing Millia being added into the main character cast made things all the more interesting, if a tad bit odd. Fam assists those in need, that is the pirate motto and way after all, thus her assisting Millia with every single thing. Well, to the point where Millia started influencing most of Fam & Gissle’s actions. No complaints really.

The soundtrack is as unique and awesome as before. I keep coming back to Last Exile through music. The OP, ED, and the soundtrack all work as one which I find as a rare trait for an Anime. The music all works with itself and the Anime itself. The atmosphere within various a ton – from serious, comical, sadness, and despair and all in between. Quite a deep Anime, probably why people “hate” Last Exile.

I would highly recommend people watch this with an open mind, not a close or lemming kind…Appreciate the beauty, not what others want you to make of it! Now fly within our precious blue sky before it disappears from us!

- Food for thought: Did the Canadians influence the inhabitants of the Last Exile universe to play hockey well into the future?

(Link – Safebooru)

(Link – Safebooru)

*Didn’t fully express why I love Last Exile due to spoilers and similar.

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2) – Steins;Gate:
http://myanimelist.net/anime/9253/Steins;Gate

“I’m Mad Scientist Sonova bitch!”

(Link – Safebooru)

Who doesn’t like science merged with conspiracy theories? Makes for a nice mind-screw scenario when mixed with saving those you love with conspiracy theories, and time-machines. How far and to what lengths will you go to save those dear to you?

Unleash the mad scientist within you to accomplish what is deemed socially unaccepted, socially destructive, and destructive to the things deemed both precious and taken for granted.

What made this stand out was the overall uniqueness and the toned conspiracy theories our beloved Mad scientist spewed from his paranoid mouth. The bravery to simply touch on what others deem as idiocy.  Such as? A microwave oven with the ability to send (censored) texts, themselves, and others all the while covertly operating and infiltrating “Cern/Sern”.

Experiments and conspiracy theories are fun, but harassing Kurisu is far more entertaining when unleashing a tsundere’s wrath. All that Dr. Pepper, side-plotting, and hidden impersonations can take a toll on both Kurisu’s and Okabe’s mental health.

All is fun when texting to the past, treasure hunting for old gadgets, experimenting with gelly bananas, and toying with an American tsundere.

(Link – Safebooru)

(Link – Safebooru)

(Link – Safebooru)

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3) - Busou Shinki – Moon Angel:
http://myanimelist.net/anime/11103/Busou_Shinki_Moon_Angel

(Link – MySite)

Welcome to the world of 15 cm tall battle robots! No! Not Infinite Stratos! I said 15 cm tall battle robots! You know, Angelic layer style with full on AI with the purpose of fighting it out in mini battle arenas similar to air hockey or pool tables size.

The anime itself has the main character – Tsubasa – discover a heavily damaged prototype – Arnval – Type Angel in some tree branches overlooking a massive full moon (supermoon?). Tsubasa swiftly repairs Arnval, names her Kaguya, and then proceeded to do battle as any other Shinki master would. Sadly, all goes astray when a certain program lets loose.

Something to swiftly note as a notable spoiler – Arnval is an “EX type” Shinki, meaning that she didn’t rank up appropriately in a way other Shinkis would. She was given special treatment in some way, shape, or form. Also, the three Shinki orbs in a Shinki’s breast dictates how a Shinki behaves in combat – (i.e Attack, defense, mobility and etc)

Seeing “01″ let loose was ultimately satisfying, especially with the art style and animation complimenting her. As for our Greek mythological entity, she was quite a trigger-happy surprise.

The Anime sports a decently loveable soundtrack which people most likely didn’t notice due to it being appropriately balanced with the show itself. Even so, Busou Shinki sports Shinki character songs for your musical pleasures.

A lovely mini-anime for something that started as an MMO. It now has numerous figures, two PSP games – Battle Masters & MK.II, along with a now dead cellphone version – Battle Communications. A great concept with a company leading the franchise a bit too carelessly.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

You can see more on my review here – Episode 1 & 10. 10 has the episode list.

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4) – The Princess and the Pilot:
http://myanimelist.net/anime/9000/Toaru_Hikuushi_e_no_Tsuioku

(Link – MySite)

As a person who enjoys planes and flight I couldn’t ignore this movie at all. I even regretted holding off in watching it for a few weeks. That is how amazing this Anime movie truly is!

It is truly stunningly beautiful with the amount of attention to detail was placed within every detail of this Anime.  The music is beautiful, the scenery is over-done with detail, the story flows well, and feels like you’re watching three films in one with the phases. Ya, I know those are story arcs.

The voice acting for our gorgeous Fana has some work to do in the laughing and crying field. Overall though, the voice acting is awesome and people (anime fans) are simply being overly picky, as they always are. For both being new voice actors for both Fiana and Charles they did better than expected. I quite enjoyed it and my ears didn’t bleed.

As for escorting the princess – others and myself would of fled with the Princess instead of gaining false national pride.

More ramblings and opinions of said movie can be found here (click me).

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

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5) - Rinne no Lagrange:
http://myanimelist.net/anime/11227/Rinne_no_Lagrange

(Link – Safebooru)

A trance-styled mecha show with a trio girl group tasked with saving the Earth from aliens. Such Madoka is tasked with by Laffinty, an alien from another planet to pilot a unique mecha. Madoka showing no fear at all as she non-hesitantly approaches the task with her sweat-club passion of accomplishing the task head-on. Such is the motto of her own club! The catch? There obviously is one? Do not unleash the three monsters upon the world (censored)…

“One would be lonely, two would be unbalanced, while three would provide positive support holding everything together as one.”

This anime is quite strange to word appropriately, or properly…except for the fact that it takes itself both seriously and comically at the same time in nearly every situation. Loads of gags (maid outfit moment), lightly censored fan-service, and loads of slice-of-life comedy. Unleash your passion upon the world to save it from the would-be invaders!

Rinne no Lagrange attracted me with the trancy smoothness of the mecha, the OP, and the trance music soundtrack BGM appropriately named “Midori“. For being a slow paced slice-of-life there actually is a handful of mecha combat. Satisfying ones at that.

Rinne no Lagrange’s Opening, especially in full form, is quite pleasing to both the ears and the eyes. Found that the Try Unite OP had a slight Fate/Extra theme vibe to it at the near beginning in a musical sense, yet minor.

As mentioned, the trancy watery world known within Rinne no Lagrange pleases me. The show itself pleases me as a whole when given enough patience.

(Link – Safebooru)

(Link – Safebooru)

(Link – Safebooru)

Maru!~

—

6) – Mirai Nikki:
http://myanimelist.net/anime/10620/Mirai_Nikki_(TV)

(Link – Safebooru) -

Not recommended to those under 18. I mean it! You’ve been warned! Don’t play the hero or “mature minded” card either. I can’t stop you so have fun destroying your mind.

How nice it would be to predict the future with a simple peak on any information device. Yukiteru and Yuno both have such an ability to predict the future with a simple glance on their phone. But hey, we all know there has to be a catch to these things, right? Of course! You’re place in a survival game in a life & death manner to to become god or die trying. Cruel eh.

To make matters worse, Yukiteru has a yandere stalker named Yuno who follows him everywhere doing his bidding wherever she goes. Not as a brainless follower, but a semi-loyal plotting evil-minded seductive killing stalker that will do anything to achieve her goal. Nasty.

*Spoilers*I can still remember that one rape scene with (censored) to the point where it constantly invades my mind on various occasions. May be stuck with it for a while.*/Spoilers*. Oh, and if that made you check out Mirai Nikki then you’re a damn idiot! There isn’t any nudity in the Anime itself so I’ll burst your bubble right now, if you had one inflated.

I can’t remember exactly why I picked up to the show, yet I can tell you that the uniqueness and Yuno got me hooked. Yuno, the story, and the constant surprises kept me hooked on this crazy minded show which seems to boarder closely to Higurashi, Deadman Wonderland, and a bit on “Another“. The amount of effort Yuno put into keeping her plans on track with her killer maniac personality is the main “attraction” of the show, with all of us who enjoyed Mirai Nikki falling for her at first sight. That carefree bad-ass unpredictable yandere personality…

The soundtrack is nicely put together. It itself added that nice dark atmosphere to this show that already had a brutal survival game added into it. That, with the above reasons is why I love Mirai Nikki. It took me off guard while adding a “nice” dark atmosphere with crazy minded characters trying to tactfully slay one another to become god. I don’t support killing but this quote is appropriate for this show:

“Who cares if I kill people, I’ll revive them when I become god!”

(Link – Safebooru)

(Link – Safebooru)

(Link – Safebooru)

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7) – Senki Zesshou Symphogear:
http://myanimelist.net/anime/11751/Senki_Zesshou_Symphogear

(Link – Safebooru)

Music is life and life is music! Unlock the power of music by singing to keep humanity safe from harmful noise invasions. Allow the various pieces of fragments to grant you the ability to wield music as armor – Symphogear.

You’re probably thinking “Why Symphogear? It’s horrible! But but! It has horrible Engrish, noticeable bad animations, awkward relationships, horrible punchlines, bad yuri relationship, and an annoying main character.“

I’ll give you those points regardless of right or wrong. It does have a nice reward for those willing to give Symphogear a chance – Macross-esque concerts, awesome character albums, Chris Yukine voiced by same seiyuu as Sharatang  (busou Shinki), interesting combat scenes, and the overall soundtrack sounds awesome. Yes yes, I’m aware that the show was also poking fun at itself and parodying other Anime with various “specials”. Not defending it, just saying I love it for the music if you’re not on the same page as I.

I love this anime from the musical and character side of the story because music is known to cure and influence the way you behave in both anime and our world.

This anime was mostly enjoyable up until you either notice or ignore the flaws. Because I enjoyed the music from the show I kept watching it thus it became my favorite. I’ve also grown to like Hibiki’s manly scream. Chris Yukine Figma want! SYMPHOGEEEEEAR!

Don’t sing your swan song just yet, we still need you in this world!

(Link – Safebooru)

(Link – Safebooru)

(Link – Safebooru)

——–

Well, this most likely ended up mostly rambly instead of informative yet I still said what I wanted. Also long-overdue so double glad. If you got something out of this than I’m pleased and if not, ah well….I’ll come back and edit my silly mistakes.

This spring & summer line-up looks very pleasing so I might add another round soon after this one once those Animes finish airing.

Peace!

(Link – MySite) – Mud Lake & Turtles on logs.

(All images taken with a Lumix GF1 – Pancake lens.)

What an amusing photoshoot that was. The conversations I overheard were absolutely amusing. One almost-elderly couple spent ages searching for a path out yet they were stuck there for a good few hours.

“Screw the animals! I just want to get out now! Where is the exit?!” – Almost elderly guy.

(Link – MySite) – Chillin’ turtle.

(Link – MySite) – Roar!~ King Kong!

Mizuki! I choose you!

(Link – MySite) – “Hmph! You want me to fight this?! *insert evil laughter here*.” – Mizuki

(Link – MySite)

Moments later -

Mizuki noticed a rock sticking out so she tried a simple balancing act. Mizuki told me shortly after that she wanted to come back here to try some better balancing poses. I don’t mind, I can bring her back there to try some harder balancing poses. Noted and saved for later!

(Link – MySite)                  (Link – MySite)

*Hears rustling within the trees*….Oh, it’s only O-Chan. Silly O-Chan.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) - Geese standing on one leg.

(Link – MySite) – A lurking Chickadee-dee-dee~.

(Link – MySite)                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Beaver or a Muskrat swimming around all so happily.

(Link – MySite)                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                    (Link – MySite)

This Goose snuck his way closer towards me and Mizuki seeking food to the point where he or she could of picked at Mizuki’s accessories, myself, and even Mizuki. Luckily this one was of the friendly type.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

Wanted to show you how close the Canada Goose was to Mizuki but that didn’t work out all too well. It did get a close look – I do mean close – look at at Mizuki walking towards him/her. I’m going to guess that there was 1-2 inches of space left for the Goose to poke at Mizuki. Fun fun.

Wish I had a fox minion or myself quickly taking an image of Mizuki getting into position with the Goose looking at her. That perspective would of made an awesome image – Chance gained & lost.

(Link – MySite) – Close enough of a perspective.

(Link – MySite) – “WTF you want?! Do you have any snacks?!”

(Link – MySite) - S/he decided to sleep eh?

After the Canada Goose encounter Mizuki asked me for her armor so……she armored up. She was slightly on edge and a bit…paranoid due to being unfamiliar with the area still.

Nice to see she also discovered a non-raided rock to flex her strength.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                  (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Beautiful flowers.

Mizuki decided to snatch one to examine and to have the kids nearby stare at her. Amusing.

(Link – MySite)                  (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                                 (Link – MySite)

Awww, how nice of you Mizuki, thanks!

—-

Thanks for viewing and hope you enjoyed the images. I’m finally pleased with the image quality this time around. Thanks for asking me questions, following me, commenting and etc! Makes for a nice experience. Enjoy your spring! Peace!

Feel free to stalk me on Tumblr as well!

(Link – MySite)

(All images taken from the now extinct Busou Shinki – Battle Rondo & Diorama Studio MMO which was shut down on October 31st, 2011 by Konami JP.)

I will note that some/most of the poses aren’t that nicely done and I blame that on rushing, but I still wanted to post these up regardless. They still please me in one way or an other, and because I want share some more Busou Shinki love.

Konami! May you PLEASE release a offline mode version of diorama Studio? I, amongst other Shinki fans, will even pay you if necessary for such; such is our loyalty/passion/love/interest in Busou Shinkis.

(Link – MySite) – Sharatang in Benio’s light armor.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – She looks beautiful in Benio’s armor.

(Link – MySite) – This one is my favorite out of the whole bunch.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Nice accessories; Should of obtained more.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Imagine this blade touching your neck.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) - Wish I could reset this because I know of a better way to pose that left arm.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

——-

Not too bad, I like

I actually like how Sharatang looks in Benio’s armor. As for Kohiru in Sharatang’s armor? Oddly amusing. Sharatang has some nice suitable angry eyes to suit her new samurai role.

Have yourselves a nice day!

(Link – MySite)

(All images taken with a Lumix GF1 – Pancake lens. All images taken on April 18, 2012.)

Went out on the quest to take an image of Mizuki directly gifting a squirrel some treats. I tried! I’m jealous and envious of those getting insanely close-up shots with their Shinkis and squirrels. Lucky bastards! I’ll get it eventually! A nice lovely spring day it was though with some nice planes flying over.

(Link – MySite) – This plane seemed different from the regular ones.

(Link – MySite) – Nice plane and cloud formation; Looks like a hand grabbing the plane.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Seriously……….

(Link – MySite)                                 (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – That bugger is taunting me from in between the rocks! *shakes fist*

(Link – MySite) – Seagull, Mizuki, and Mizuki.

Hmm…..that squirrel is insanely cautious – Quest = failed.

My camera’s battery was complaining so I decided to take spring shots before it fully died on me. So ya, have fun hanging around?

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – “Join me?”

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) -                              (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                                  (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

Some daughter’s father: “Are you an anime fan?”
Me: “Yes I am” *Surprised*

While taking the above shot that father knew what type of figure I had – Anime – which was surprisingly awesome. Keep at it Ottawa!

(Link – MySite)                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Mizuki the Dragonfly?

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

I wanted to, and still do, take more images of Mizuki with the blooming scenery. Wanted to get Mizuki with the growing leaves and the wild-life in the area.

*Shakes fist at rain* – Not really pissed off though.

———-

- Bonus:

(Link – MySite) – I do not claim credit for making these, only sharing.

Renge & Gab Papercraft:
(Click one or the other name for their papercraft.)

Found a Renge and Gab’ paper-craft on Twitter a few months back so I snatched them and printed them out. Sadly I can’t credit whoever made it nor do I have the Twitter so you’ll have to tell me who made it so I can give credit where credit is due. I’ll still share it (I can take it off by request as well) because I find them nice and think that the more love the better.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

Not really finished, but you get the idea – *hates being rushed*. Renge now has a nice new toy to play with.

Renge has two facial expressions – Sleeping and surprised – on one head and is very easy to craft up. I used tape because I didn’t have a glue-stick, which I’ll get later to make a proper one. Have fun creating a paper-craft Shinki army!

—

Now if you’ll excuse me, I got a lot of seasonal sneezing to due thanks to the chilly rainy weather. *sneezes his way out*.

Peace!

(Link – MySite)

(All images taken with a Lumix GF1 – Pancake lens.)

I love getting Kindereggs, and still do, ever since I’ve been gifted numerous amounts from Slovakia. As a kid I used to be gifted these to the point where they outnumbered the real eggs found in the fridge. Ah, the beautiful nostalgic memories. I could ramble on but I’ll hold back.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                                 (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

What did Kohiru get? Not one, but two lions holding magnifying glass.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

Me and Kohiru ended up having a fight.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                                (Link – MySite)

Kohiru discovered a lovely little flower which she took with her.

(Link – MySite)                                 (Link – MySite)

——

Been wanting to share some shots of Kindereggs for a long while now so I finally did and here they are. Hope you like them. Enjoy munching on them Kinderegg chocolates!

Peace!

(Link – MySite)

(All images taken with a Lumix GF-1 – Pancake Lens.)

Happy Easter to those that celebrate it! Though, I want to try something more…unique in a way. Nothing special, but nothing on the ordinary as well – Slovak Easter. Here, view this article and this one. They’ll tell you how guys slap girls with a tree branch and how they (sometimes) drench them in water. Barbaric? It is all playful of course. The girl should know if it is fun and games.

Though, if you’re the picky and uptight person, then you might want to know in that the roles are reversed in other parts of Slovakia. The guys will be the one getting slapped and soaked by the girls. Why? For beauty, fertility, and good health.

Back when I was in Slovakia I had what look like a rug slapping sticks to slap girls. As a foreigner I found it entertaining, and even more so as a guy now that I think back at it. Basically slapped girl’s butts with the stick very lightly due to adult supervision. Was a kid then…No water soaking though.

There is always the choice of coloring eggs the traditional way I guess.

—

- Related Articles:

- Happy Figma Easter Weekend:
http://ghostlysubstance.swgbex.com/Blog/?p=735

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Hmm, palacinky. Yummy!~

And of course, Renge attacking every meal I eat in a festive manner. Oh that Renge…..Mizuki too?!

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

Bueno chocolate is awesome every now and again.

(Link – MySite)                (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

Slappity slap! I didn’t have those traditional whips so I used a miniature Slovak flag. Whip, whip! I can

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

Soak Renge good!

(Link – MySite) - Did slash water, just wasn’t much. Other mini-cups were too heavy for Mizuki.

(Link – MySite)                                  (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

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Have fun and don’t uh….go overboard with your Easter traditions. No Shinki or Figma abuse either! Just be “playful” with the whipping. Water? Harmless so soak them good!  Have fun munching on those chocolate eggs. When you’re done horsing or Kon’ing around .

Happy Easter!

(Link – MySite)

(All images taken with a Lumix GF1 – Pancake lens.)

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Related Articles:

- Ottawa’s Ferrari Festival – 2011:
http://ghostlysubstance.swgbex.com/Blog/?p=2249

- Kamui Kobayashi – Wiki:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kamui_Kobayashi

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Who is Kamui Kobayashi? A Japanese Formula 1 driver for the Sauber F1 Team. A risk-taking and crazy (positive) driver at that which makes watching the race twice as entertaining.

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(Link – MySite)                                (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                                 (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Nice background. Nice and simple. Love the logo.

(Link – MySite) – Instructions? With a Figma? 0_o

(Link – MySite) – Nicely way to attach accessories.

What you see is what you get.

(Link – MySite)                                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Nicely detailed with sponsors.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Kamui Kobayashi.

The helmet is nicely decorated, detailed, and can be taken apart in two to place over Kobayashi’s head. Yes, it even has “Good Smile Company” written on the little replica, as well as the real one. Attention to detail is key. As to be expected by GSC.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Used the wrong head; For example.

(Link – MySite) – That is the correct head-piece to attach the helmet.

(Link – MySite)                                  (Link – MySite)

And now with the HANS device which protects the driver’s neck and head from any sudden strain. It keeps the head in place without moving too far. It also transfers the energy to the other parts of the body that can actually withstand the shock.

In Figma form it doesn’t work all that well. The thing slips and it won’t connect to the rear of the helmet with the grey dot.

(Link – MySite) – Note the GSC sponsor below “NEC”.

(Link – MySite)

I don’t have any BMW’s nor Saubers in F1 form, only Ferrari. I’m a big Ferrari fan when I’m in an F1 or car mood. This should be close enough to what I’m reviewing.

(Link – MySite) – Lego Ferrari F1.

(Link – MySite) – My R/C Ferrari from Bratislava, Slovakia.

(Link – MySite)

–

- Bonus:

My practice time-trial times using a Sauber on Montreal’s race-track. Been there in 2007 to watch the race.

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- Final Thoughts:

I feel it was worth the purchase, if I did pay for the figure. Can’t remember if I did. Either way, I feel that I bought a good quality figure suited for a niche collecting group – Formula 1 fans and/or all male figures. This would go similar with Figma Mirai where only Danny Choo fans (myself) would obtain Figma Mirai to support Danny in whatever way.

The quality is actually quite good, nice detailing on the sponsors & his name, and the helmet goes on nicely. The articulation sadly lacks similar to Figma Emiya‘s limited range in posing. I’m probably being greedy, but what would of been nice would be a miniature chibi Sauber F1 car or similar. GSC went with quality over quantity in parts. Would also assume Kamui and racing Miku would go well with one another due to both being into racing.

Would I recommend this? Only if you’re an F1 fan, like detailing, and if you can tolerate limited articulation. If you have Figma racing Miku then all the more reason to obtain. If not, then stick with whatever you may be interested in.

—

Pros:

- Great detailing with the sponsors and such. The helmet actually looks like the real thing without any alterations.
- Helmet can actually be placed over and onto Kamui’s head, can be held in his hand, and even taken apart in two.
- Figma comes with three head choices to suit your posing or photography choices. You may have him posed in a racing pose, casual one, or even an awkward pre-race pose with an awkward facial expression.
- Kamui’s figma box background with the emblem actually looks nice.

–

Cons:

- Limited articulation. GSC suffers with sacrificing artifculation for quality and detailing. I mean, Figma is nice but you can’t really pose the figure all too well. You can, just not so much.
- One of Kamui’s head – the one with the white fire mask – Looks awkward in Figma form. His head has horizontal antennas and his mouth is square. Looks like a robot.
- No Sauber F1 car in any shape or form. A Chibi one would of been welcomed.

—-

- Wishlist:

- Obtain Kobayashi’s autograph on any worthwhile object, most likely the Figma itself.
- Re-obtain Daniel Alfredsson’s (Ottawa Sens Hockey Player) autograph on an actual worthwhile object. I have his autograph on something I can’t frame .

—-

Happy racing! One race is done in the 2012′s F1 season. Enjoy!

(Link – MySite) – Renge’s eyes scare me.

(All images taken with a Lumix GF1 – Pancake lens & inserted into Photoscape.)

Maybe Mizuki really didn’t fly, but she did come close a few times. She leapt off a branch a few times hitting my shoe and the grass a few times. Luckily she is tougher than she looks, withstanding the fall damage nicely. As always, I’m blaming the wind.

Hmm…the amount of people looking at me oddly increased by twice or three fold. Quite curious Ottawa be to the point of creeping me out. Didn’t have my figures out until a bit later.

(Link – MySite)                             (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                                   (Link – MySite)

Renge having her fun while searching for any new buds on branches.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Messing around with boundaries.

I guess this turned into a sub-concious thought of mine when people were looking back at me taking images of these figures. Basically had Mizuki looking out at the people, even scouting out her scenery similar to people looking back at me. Turned out nicely.

(Link – MySite) – Fly like a bird, Mizuki!

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Scouting the scouters.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite) – Frustrated Renge.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

- Renge: Shall we attack those foolish humans?
- Mizuki: No, Master would be displeased.
- Renge: May we at least “play” with them?
- Mizuki: Shh, I’m examining the scenery.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                                     (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

Those Seagulls truly don’t care where they walk around at haha! One on a car’s roof with a possibly confused driver within. Look up on your roof and you’ll see what I took an image of. Probably too late when posting now, but……ha!

(Link – MySite)

Purposely over-filtered the following pair of Mizuki images thinking that I gave her a nice aura. They were dark silhouette type images needing some brightening up.

(Link – MySite)                                   (Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)                                    (Link – MySite)

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(Link – MySite)

—

Been listening to Rinne no Lagrange OST because it does have a handful of nicely made tracks. Perfect!

—

Water – I still get hypnotized by the way it moves and splashes around. It has this nice calming effect.

(Link – MySite)

(Link – MySite)

Well, hope you enjoyed those images of both Renge and Mizuki. Enjoy your lovely Spring weather.

Spoiler Warning: This article contains spoilers due to me reviewing the movie as a whole. Shall try to keep spoilers to a minimum; Skim past the images if curious.

(All images taken using Fraps. To view images full-screen simply click on them. Apologize if there are too many images.)

The Princess and The Pilot a.k.a To Aru Hikushi eno Tsuioku is a movie about a pilot namedCharles, a Princess named Fana, and a reconnaissance sea plane – Santa Cruz. Charles, A Levamme Empire Mercenary, was tasked to escort Princess Fana 12, 000 km to the mainland  to re-unite her with her Prince by flying her past enemy blockades along the route which takes them over a large ocean.

—

- Homepage:
http://hikuushi-tsuioku.com/

- MAL:
http://myanimelist.net/anime/9000/Toaru_Hikuushi_e_no_Tsuioku

–

—

Sadly, constant racial slurs and racism are plaguing Charle’s atmosphere due to him being mostly nonnative to the land. Regardless, his skills prove to be the best which causes a massive stir within military’s ranks, especially a few pilots. Due to his extraordinary skill he is thus tasked with flying the Princess across a and towards the Prince on a three day journey across the ocean. Even a blockade at a place called “The Grand Falls”.

I’m recommending this Anime because it feels unique; A breath of fresh air, along with the aviation heavy plot. Everything about it feels very unique. I would even go as far as comparing this anime with Last Exile, Allison & Lillia, and Zipang, though not completely. Hell, why not – 08th Team Gundam – Because of Aina and the Shiro in similar romantic situations. Fana’s father at times reminded me of Fana’s father.

The resemblance to those four Anime are very similar in various areas, yet necessarily very different and unique.

Last Exile for the steam-punkish airships; Allison & Lillia for aviation; Zipang for aviation combat; 08th Team for similar romantic pairing situations. Regardless, this movie stays fresh.

Levamme – The combined Allied forces combined made into their own nation for this movie. Their aviation designs are based of those used within WW2, yet altered all so slightly to make them feel unique in this universe.

Amatsukami – Where the movie starts off with both Charles and Fana’s mishaps. This area is often (or in the movie) threatened constantly by enemy air raids.

Amatsuvian – The Imperial Japanese forces made into their own unique nation within this movie. Fana noted “The way of the Samurai”. The feared Shinden also makes numerous appearances with a “modernized” upgrades – both appearances and technical – constantly harassing the Levamme Empire. Most of the planes have a fancy roundel design ontop of the Japanese Sun roundel on the wings.

It appears the Levamme are a bunch of arrogant individuals. Unsure what agitated them, but they’re always portrayed as angry, frustrated, rude, and highly demanding individuals. Sure, they mostly show royalty and the military. They also showed garden workers; normal individuals with little to no tolerance. They just don’t give a crap and go all out with their hatred. Is this a subtle insult to the North Americans, Europeans, and the British that we’re “barbarians” or angry individuals? Guess they’re just fed up that they keep being beaten back by the feared Shinden’s from the alter-world’s time-line with Japan..I mean Amatsuvian owning the sky with the upgraded Shinden design.

Also, wanted to point out the maids are quite ignorant of how war-birds operate. I’m not part of the military yet even I would know that the more crap you place within something the slower and heavier it would get. Fana’s father must of been lax, because those maids are quite…..I’ll simply say pushy-rude.

Bestados – When Levammians and an Amatsuvian give birth that child is called a Bestados within that world. Bestados are treated like the black and the Chinese in old-America – like trash and slaves.

- Reconnaissance Aircraft – Santa Cruz -

A Levamme Empire created a prototype reconnaissance plane meant for Aquatic missions. The plane is the fastest aircraft within the Levamme Empire, max speed at 620 km/h. The aircraft has no real way to defend itself, besides speed and the rear gun-mount. The aircraft can land at both land and sea at will without mounting or dismounting things.

The aircraft may also recharge it’s power-source via sea-water. Sounds like submarine technology to me. Unsure what current machine or vehicle uses such to power itself via sea water.

I tried to find a real-world counterpart – Aichi E13A & the Dauntless.

- Aichi E13A. (Floats & canopy)
- Douglas SBD Dauntless (Body, wing, and flaps)

Such an aircraft itself would be treated as a trainer within our world. It can’t defend itself……well. I also don’t know of any recon plane having a cargo hold as well. Specially crafted for her royalty’s transport.

I have to note that the voice acting on this is actually quite awesome. Sure, there are faults when Charles and Fana cry, laugh, or when Fana acts all so innocent during the beginning. Regardless, the voice acting is something to praise even when things get bad. Sure, I was able to fall out of immersion all so slightly, yet I was still able to watch the movie without feeling like a spectator.

Seika Taketomi voices Fana in her adult form. She only has one role yet she was able to pull off an innocent personality, sing and re-sing songs, and even even show authority later on. I praise her for. She may need to work on laughing and crying though. At times I could compare her Fana’s voicing innocence to Last Exile’s innocence.

I may have to note the same for Charle’s voice actor – Ryunosuke Kamiki- The laughing sounded force. Regardless, awesome overall.

The voice acting for all the characters is as to be expected for an anime – top quality.

I’m betting those that scrolled down this far noticed loads of images placed within this article. Can you guess why? I’ll tell you why – The level of detailing on everything. Scenery porn as people would say. The world within this Anime is absolutely stunning to the point if I kept images out it would feel like an insult to the Anime itself. I could of posted with less images with a “less is more” philosophy but ya….too damn beautiful not to share. Next time I may purposely rush myself if it becomes bothersome.

The attention to detailing, the level of detailing, the animation, the quality, the plane designs, the environment, and the world is beautiful in more ways than one. This movie alone proves why I enjoy watching Anime with the way I watch it; The freedom of it all and the ability to express without restraints.

The amount of detailing in this movie is perfectly over-done at times. Everything has a purpose and the world actually feels alive.

Now comes the point of the whole movie:

Would you do your duty or run away with the one you love?

(The following poll is for those that watched.)

Charles is a person who wants to be loyal to his nation and to do the duty to fly. He dislikes killing missions yet he wants to prove something by delivering Fana to the awaiting airship. However, Fana desires that they both flee so they can live in peace (08th Team style for those that watched). Simply doing his duty will gain him nothing but hard-earned cash, yet at the cost of seeing a loved one perish into the sands of time.

If I think I know what Charles thought then – He wanted to complete his duty to prove he isn’t some “sewer rat”. He wants to personally prove he isn’t as inferior as people make him out to be and that they themselves are are far more inferior due to their behavior of belittling others by calling “Bestados” “sewer rats”.

If anything, his thoughts may simply be clashing with the thought of him stealing a Prince’s bride. A “sewer rat” stealing a royal bride by flying off into the far-off land.

If Charles did do as Fana requested by running away he would of been either A) Labeled as inferior by simply being MIA or KIA or B) Giving up on a mission he could of completed with ease. He would of gained love from Fana and hate from those that sacrificed themselves along with Levamme’s inhabitants.

If things truly got out of hand, both sides – Levamme & Amatsuvian – might end up hunting Charles at a cottage, village, or a boat-house out in the middle of nowhere. Nobody knows with the little we have been introduced with in the movie.

Its a tough choice when you think deeply, and an easy one if going by impulsive nature.

AAINNA!~ Whoops! Wrong series…My bad. Fana here looks similar to how Aina does in 08th Team Gundam show. Sure, not fully or 100% but at a glance. The aura is there. When hunting for the OST I came across a Japanese thread that backed me up with an image of Aina and Shiro at a cottage.

When I started watching the first time around I noticed Fana’s father looked like Norris, Fana as Aina, and Charles as Shiro. However, I noticed Fana and Charles being Aina and Shiro at the island part of the movie. Agree with me? I’m curious if the movie was made by those that made or were influenced by 08th Team Gundam.

(Ending Spoiler)

One of the best movies I seen from the Anime side. Beautiful! If somebody wanted something unique and fresh then I would recommend this. Air combat was well done, the bonding moments were memorable, and had me glued to the screen. I’m not even joking or exaggerating. This movie is one that I can watch, re-watch, and even re-rewatch without being bored.

The whole racial thing got to me, and maybe that is why I ended up rewatching, because I could actually understand how Charles felt. Either do what you can and feel proud or do nothing and feel like shit, sinking into depression in response.

Fana is a nice mature-minded royal lady who appears not to be pampered all that badly. She is pampered, but only because she is royalty, though her personality says otherwise. Even a 20/20 vision fit for piloting. She also didn’t hide, cower, nor flee from battle when the time came to it. Instead, she braved it all when asked or when it came to it. If anything, Charles brought out her true personality to be herself when she was denied to see him off.

The ending was as neutral as you could possibly get. Charles didn’t die, he didn’t fly off with her; Fana didn’t give birth nor did she fall fully in love. She didn’t even die, nor did she even get lucked up. She stood up and saw Charles dancing happily within the sky. He also sprinkled the gold to shower the ship. Gold? Who needs it when you have a girl that loves you from a-far and a plane that can allow you to dance freely within the open sky?

Can’t fully comment on the music. I will however say that the background music itself was enjoyable when I did notice it. I had to skim the movie to see if there was any at all or if I was simply that immersed. Great, but I didn’t notice it at first.

I’m pleased with the ending. Of course, I would want and to see Charles and Fana be together. Seeing them or their possible children fly in the open sky would of been made me and everybody happy, yet I’m also glad it was done the way it was. Left the ending open to your imagination. Having a short OVA seems to be highly recommended by people and would be nice.

—-

- Conclusion:

I highly recommend this Anime to whoever wants to watch a 2 hour movie with planes, air combat, romance, and adventure. I see little to no flaws with the Anime and nothing felt like a “gimmick”. Everything is nicely toned, perfectly balanced into the plot, and the quality is high. I went back to enjoy the high quality scenery, the plane, and the character building points. I could stare at them for ages.

Let me word it this way – If a movie made me rewatch it a few times within two days and made me dream about it then it truly has to be good. I tried watching others only to watch it once or get put off from watching it another time.

Perfect for those that enjoy aviation or Anime in general.

(Link – Flickr) – Temp Banner with Renge greeting; Battle Rondo inspired.

(All images taken from various cameras and on Vita. Note: Massive rambling ahead, read at if you so desire. Stuff with Chinese Buffet and after is March 28; stuff before such is before March 28th.)

Has been an awkwardly awesome March if I do say so myself. Spring was here during the end of winter and summer hit during the first signs of spring. Quite awesome and not so Ottawa-styled. The Ottawaians know what I mean when I say the weather felt like summer instead of spring during March break. The weather kept everybody on their tows while allowing my Tenko Kugen figure in obtaining an exaggerated curve on her bow posture. Everybody was hitting the bike-paths, the pubs, restaurants, Ice cream shops and Dairy Queen in swarms. That line at DQ….

(Link – Mobile)                        (Link – Mobile) – Old Mc’Dee’s ice cream is old.

I wouldn’t blame Global Warming because that would be silly and lemming like. Instead, I would like to point out the jet-stream moving further north holding all the cold arctic air hostage to the north .

I also find it amusing how Best Buy is able to sell a new yet silent game called ICO, yet they manage to get away with ancient dead MMO’s that no longer work. Update your stock!

(Link – Mobile)

(Link – Mobile) – Dead MMO clients for purchase!

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March 28th:

Went to a Chinese Buffet while considering going to a Japanese buffet. Kept to the Chinese because me and someone who accompanied me got full. Renge? Envious that she couldn’t eat. Other people? Don’t really care what “they” think. Also, you expected me to go Renge-less? Think again…

I see I forgot to change Renge’s faceplate hmm…Seems fitting though.

(Link – Mobile) - I always start off with Won Ton, even if it is real or fake. Love either form of it!

(Link – Mobile) – Singapore noodles, fried Won Ton, and random dumplings. mmmm~.

(Link – Mobile)                        (Link – Mobile) – Mmmm, Fried Chinese Chicken.

This kiddy coin machine caught my attention, it had Nintendo & Hello Kitty related keychains. I tried ignoring it. Oh? I obtained a Ghost! That silly bugger that kept chasing me in the 5 coin island for Gameboy back in the day and on the regular Nintendo. Fun times!

(Link – Mobile)                        (Link – Mobile)

(Link – Mobile) – My thoughts exactly, Ghost!

Above-right: Thought I’d take an image of a helicopter with a slight difference in motor sound. They always manage to grab my attention, no matter what.

Below – A lovely plane showing itself instead of hiding within the clouds during take-off. Had to enhance and add a few filters to make the image more….pleasing?

(Link – Mobile)

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PSP Vita:

Didn’t want to make another article for each thing I got so I’ll just place this here.

Also obtained myself a Vita after ages of considering it. My old first-gen PSP is gradually fading into non-existence so I thought that I might as well get a Vita. Sure, it is another gadget yet a lovable one. Has some nice feature that actually has me pleased. Everything is smooth and sleek.

I had my first PSP for so long and used it a lot. I brought it to both Europe and Cuba to entertain me and turn others to the “dark” side. I’m surprised my PSP still works after seeing someone mistreat their PSP, having to replace it within the first few weeks of purchase.

(Link – MySite) – First gen vs third.

What stories and memories will I be able to tell with my Vita?

(Link – MySite)

What are those cards? To play some free mini-games on your Vita. You download a game called “Fireworks” while choosing 1-3 as difficulty level. Once the game starts that card is used to display to shoot of fireworks for you to set off. Quite simple and fun actually. You basically tap the screen to set off the fireworks.

Another feature I’m pleased with is the ability to snap pictures from within! Yes! Shall be using that more often from now on. Now I need to figure out how to obtain Busou Shinki Battle Masters MK. II before a third one is announced.

(Link – Vita)

(Link – Vita)

(Link – Vita)

Near is also an interesting app. It allows you to both place yourself and see others on a map, if one desires. I have 9-17 players in my area; 9 active and 17 overall….however that works? I get to see the latest 5 games and applications they recently used before stamping themselves on such maps.

(Link – Vita) – Stalking players since 2012.

The camera is on the lacking side sadly. I mean, it is nice but very lacking in image quality. Such camera would be best suited outdoors…you know, on the go – Playstation Portable Vita.

(Link – Vita)

*Nods to self* – Ya, that ability to take images of the Vita screen would of came in handy when taking images of Moon Angel anime for the reviews. The timing…..

—-

I’ll quickly note that Ottawa can’t build bridges, has a fetish for picking on OC Transpo, wants red-carpet treatment for everything, and can’t behave like a world-class city. I’ve grown tired and fatigued from hearing which could be easily done or ignored turned into dramatic headlines. Be intelligent! Don’t pretend, BE intelligent! The drama *facepalms*. This damn city…..*nods*. I think it is time to finally set my plan into motion, if insanely delayed.

Well…guess that is it? Yup. Quite an interesting March if I do say so myself, again. Well, enjoy your Spring and hope to take more Shinki images sometimes down the road….that is if silly Ottawaians would stop stealing stuff on the buses from other people, even openly. Instead, I just might spend my free time playing SWTOR, studying Japanese, and setting my plan into motion instead of Busou Shink’ing.

Anyways, enough rambling – Peace!