In a surprise announcement, publisher Mag Garden has revealed that they will release an all new “Aria” manga!

Titled “Aria ~Gigli in Fiore~”, the new story will still take place in Neo-Venezia on Aqua, but focus on new generation girls Ai from Aria Company and Himeko from Orange Planet, and the deeper relationship that develops between them as they strive to become full fledged undine.
To capture the essence of this new direction in the franchise, Kozue Amano, creator of the original “Aria”, is slated to work together with yuri artist Morigana Milk.

Illustration by 雨花 (Pixiv).

あらあら、うふふふふふ~ ごめんなさいでもエイプリルフールですよ。

If you haven’t guessed it by now, this is of course an April Fools joke.
Though I wouldn’t mind a new “Aria” story… or more shoujo ai vibes in Kozue Amano’s current manga “Amanchu!”.

The spring anime season is starting and there’s plenty of series I plan to watch.

Really enjoyed the first “Love Live! School Idol Project” anime, so am really looking forward to the second season. It was an entertaining series about idols, full of catchy tunes and upbeat songs. While it had dramatic events, overall it had an uplifting, positive atmosphere and it did steer clear from having its characters reach impossible goals.

Topping the list of new series is definitely “Mangaka-san to Assistant-san to”, a harem comedy about a perverted mangaka, his assistants and the other poor souls that get swept up in his silly shenanigans. The manga is hilarious, so am anxious to discover if the anime adaptation will live up to the original.

Judging by the promotional video, “Inugami-san to Nekoyama-san” will be right up my alley as it promises to be a lovely yuri comedy, possibly close in style to “Sakura Trick” with lots of comedy and silliness. Unfortunately, it will be made up of short, five minute long episodes only, though that formula worked well for “Onee-chan ga Kita!”

Also a yuri genre show, “Akuma no Riddle” will no doubt be completely different from “Inugami-san to Nekoyama-san” as its promotional video showcases a dark, action packed show, possibly with quite a bit of drama. Although am a fan of the yuri genre, am unsure if such a dark toned series will really to my personal taste.

Definitely watching “Gochuumon wa Usagi Desu Ka?”, the moe factor shown in the promotional video is so high simply cannot ignore it, looks like it will be an innocent, heart-warming comedy filled with endearingly cute girls not unlike “Kiniro Mosaic”.

Even though have not completed the ‘Arland’ trio of games from the Atelier series, let alone try the newer ‘Dusk’ titles, will watch “Atelier Escha & Logy ~Tasogare no Sora no Renkinjutsushi~”. Even though its original character designs are not by Kishida Mel, just can’t pass up on a show with such cute characters.

Haven’t read the original manga, but the story of “Isshuukan Friends” (or ‘One Week Friends’) is rather compelling and the promotional trailer showed lots of powerful emotions and interesting character interaction. Do hope that it not become a story that is too depressing or overbearing to watch.

For some reason, the promotional trailer of “Bokura wa Minna Kawaisou” gave me rather nostalgic feeling, reminding me of anime series of a bygone era. Was it the art style or something else that looked old school in it? Cannot say for sure, but will watch the first few episodes to see what it’s really about.
Will it be a lovely school romance show, or will it be just a run of the mill harem type series?

Saw comments that “Sidonia no Kishi” will be a classic space science fiction show. Judging by the synopsis and promotional videos, this will likely be an epic mecha science fiction show without the superfluous elements that so many other series of the genre are full of. Quite liked the subdued, realistic color palette in the videos and other illustrations, it has a very raw feeling to it.

Light novel adaptation “Hitsugi no Chaika” has been rather heavily advertised. While the trailer did look promising, difficult to say if it will really be good or if it is just a hyped series full of popular tropes like the cute gothic styled loli prominently shown in the advertisements. Will give it a try and see what it’s like.

Reading the story synopsis, “Gokukoko no Brynhildr” does not sound especially intriguing, but its promotional video had a dark vibe and a rather desperate atmosphere clung to main characters Ryouta and Neko’s plight. Wonder if it will be a tragic story like “Elfen Lied” or “Iriya no Sora, UFO no Natsu”.

It may look like an average anime comedy of which there are a dime in a dozen each new season, with a main female lead whose entire visual design is supposed to reel in the audience, but do plan on giving “Ryuugajou Nanana no Maizoukin” a try, seems like it could be a fun series even if the core plot premise isn’t exactly novel.

With all the series mentioned above, my anime watching schedule is already pretty packed, but looking at spring season line-up there are even more shows that at first glance look interesting. Hence, I plan on sampling an episode or two of “Black Bullet”, “Blade & Soul”, “”Break Blade”, “Mahou Shoujo Taisen”, “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei” and “Captain Earth”.
Will see if any of them appeal to me enough to keep on watching.

Near the end of May, “Hanamonogatari” is set to air in five episodes, plan on watching this chapter of the Monogatari series that focuses on Kanbaru. As far as OVA and movies are concerned, there is the “Tamako Love Story” movie and of course the “Girls und Panzer and “GJ-bu” OVA releases that I definitely will not miss.

Tell me, what will you watch this spring?

One of the first new spring series on my watch list that started to air is “Bokura wa Minna Kawaisou”, the anime adaptation of the original comedy manga “僕らはみんな河合荘” by Miyahara Ruri.

Although it is officially titled “The Kawai Complex Guide to Manors and Hostel Behaviour” in English, the dormitory’s name ‘kawaisou’ as used in the original Japanese title can be seen as a play on words since かわいぞう can also mean pitiful.

That play of words in the title seemed rather odd when looking at the lively and colorful illustrations used to advertise the series. After seeing the terrific visuals in the promotional trailer, wanted to try this show and after the first episode, am definitely watching the rest!

In simple terms, based on that first episode alone, the show feels like a mix of classic anime “Mahoraba ~Heartful Days~” with last year’s “Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo”, all with stunning animation from Brain Base whose use of lighting effect and subdued color palette do somewhat remind me of Makoto Shinkai’s work.

While the core story and overall comedy seem nothing to be excited about, the irresistible cuteness of main female lead Ritsu and the particular animation style have reeled me in.

Am unsure how she is rendered in the original manga, but there’s no doubt that the studio and writers know that Ritsu’s cuteness is one of the show’s selling points and they’re hamming her moe factor up for all she’s worth. At first glance Ritsu is a quiet, distant girl, totally absorbed in the endless books she constantly reads, she is no meek girl devoid of personality though, but seems rather strong willed.

Just having a cute female lead character alone isn’t enough though, luckily for “Bokura wa Minna Kawaisou”, the excellent performance of voice actress Hanazawa Kana adds an entire dimension to Ritsu, she’s the perfect candidate to voice such a character.

Animation by studio Brain’s Base is very good. As is usual for most anime, key scenes and character close-ups are well cared for and have lots of detail, but in comparison some of the more plain scenes do have rather lackluster animation.

Where the studio really seems to pull out all the stops is in rendering the lighting and luscious backgrounds, especially those of Kawaisou, with its classic Japanese architecture it strikes the viewer as an enchanting place.

As mentioned above, bookworm Ritsu is voiced by Hanazawa Kana, she also voiced Nadeko in “Bakemonogatari”, Charlotte in “IS: Infinite Stratos”, Ruri in “Ore no Imouto ga Konna ni Kawaii Wake ga Nai”, Kobato in “Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai”, Yokoi in “Tonari no Seki-kun”, Roka in “D-Frag!” and Onodera in “Nisekoi”.

Satou Rina voices Mayumi, she previously voiced Misaka in “To aru Kagaku no Railgun”, Haruka in “Minami-ke”, Kaoru in “Amagami SS”, Saki in “Genshiken Nidaime” and Nagi in “Eve no Jikan”.

Kobayashi Sanae voices landlady Sumiko, she also voiced Lucy in “Elfen Lied”, Akira in “My Hime” and Satsuki in “Ichigo 100%”.

Although she has yet to appear, Sayaka will be voiced by Kanemoto Hisako, she’s tackled roles like Makoto in “Gingitsune”, Kanata in “So-Ra-No-Wo-To”, Amy in “Suisei no Gargantia”, Haruka in “Kotoura-san” and Ika Musume in “Shinryaku! Ika Musume”.

Really enjoyed the first episode, will keep on watching and do hope that “Bokura wa Minna Kawaisou” turns out to be a lovely, heartwarming comedy like “Mahoraba ~Heartful Days~”.

What a pleasant surprise to read the news that the official “Non Non Biyori” website announced today that a second season of the anime has been green-lit for production!

Based on the “のんのんびより” manga by Atto, absolutely adored the anime adaptation of this endearing slice-of-life story about four school friends in a small, quiet town in rural Japan and their days filled with innocent fun and heartwarming moments.

Not only was the series itself right up my alley with its leisurely slice-of-life pace, but the voice acting lifted it up even further with terrific work by Asumi Kana as Komari, Murakawa Rie as Hotaru, Sakura Ayane as Natsumi and Koiwai Kotori as Renge. Sincerely hope that all voice talents will reprise their role for the second season.

While it has not been revealed yet when this sequel is slated to air, there will be a “Non Non Biyori” OVA bundled with the seventh volume of the manga due for release in July this year.
Really excited, I can hardly wait for the second season!

Originally a Korean mmorpg with an open world environment and a martial arts inspired real-time battle system, an anime adaptation of “Blade & Soul” by studio Gonzo has started to air.

Going through the anime spring season line up, there were several series that although they did not particularly stick out, still seemed worth to sample, like “Mahou Shoujo Taisen”, ”Break Blade” or “Blade & Soul”, hence decided to give the first episode a try.

Unfortunately, “Blade & Soul” did not really appeal to me at all so won’t be watching the rest of this series. Will not label “Blade & Soul” as a bad anime based on this first episode alone, but it lacked anything original and failed to pull me into the story or have its characters and fantasy-like world setting appeal to me.

The overall atmosphere, level of animation, character designs and plot events were similar to other fantasy genre shows like “Queen’s Blade” or even “Koihime†Musou”, although it lacked the ecchi fanservice of the former and shoujo-ai tinted comedy of the latter.

“Blade & Soul” might still appeal to fans of the fantasy genre or those interested in the original game, but personally will not pick up this series.

Often abbreviated as “Gochiusa”, this new anime adapted from the original “ご注文はうさぎですか?” four-panel manga by Koi is likely to become one of my favorite shows this season.

Even though am not a fan of four-panel manga since their particular comedy style is lost on me, must say that anime adaptations of those four-panel manga franchises revolving around cute girls doing cute things often tend to be right up my alley, like “Lucky Star”, “Aiura” or “Kiniro Mosaic”.

Absolutely adored the first episode of “Gochuumon wa Usagi Desu ka”, a lighthearted, slice-of-life comedy all about showing the fun daily lives of a group or irresistibly cute young girls working part time at various cafes in a rustic town.

Considering the animation and character design style of the show, it’s much like “Kiniro Mosaic” but taking place at a cafe instead of a school. The emphasis is all on these cute girls whose sheer moe appeal is enough to make anyone’s heart melt.

From lively Cocoa, shy Chino to tsundere Rize, the girls are all irresistibly cute. Although Chiya and Syaro have yet to appear, know those two will be just as as cute and endearing.

Animation by studio White Fox is rather good, with most care going to the girls to render them as cute as possible. Quite a departure for the studio from their previous works like “Jormungand” or Steins;Gate”.
The rustic town and cafe backgrounds are well cared for too, making it an enchanting place that these moe girls live in.

Cocoa is voiced by Sakura Ayane who also voiced Natsumi in “Non Non Biyori”, Akane in “Vividred Operation”, Nadeshiko in “Mikakunin de Shinkoukei”, Marii in “Joshiraku”, Mei in “Aiura” and voices Yuzuki in this season’s “selector infected WIXOSS”.

Minase Inori voices cute Chino, she does not have many roles credited to her name yet but she did voiced Suzu in “Love Lab” and Gre-chan in “Robot Girls Z”.

Twin-tailed Rize is voiced by Taneda Risa, she’s tackled roles like Mirai in “Kyouai no Kanata”, Saki in “Shinsekai Yori”, Yukari in “Yuyushiki” and this season voices Neko in Gokukoku no Brynhildr” and N.0 in “Kanojo ga Flag wo Oraretara”.
Next to the resemblance in visual design between Rize and Aya from “Kiniro Mosaic”, both characters are voiced by Taneda Risa, which only reinforces the similarities between them.

Satou Satomi will voice Chiya, she also voiced Ritsu in “K-ON!”, Aria in “Seitokai Yakuindomo”, Chitanda in “Hyouka”, Sakura in “Kiniro Mosaic” and this season also voices Mizuki in “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei”.

Syaro will be voiced by Uchida Maaya, she’s previously voiced Hiyori in “Noragami”, Rikka in “Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai!”, Mao in “GJ-bu”, Minori in “Outbreak Company”, Hajime in “Gatchaman Crowds” and Rea in “Sankarea”.

Am hooked after this great first episode and have no doubts that I will love the rest of this series, it may even become my favorite anime of the season.

If you like shows such as “Kiniro Mosaic” or “Non Non Biyori”, then you will definitely love “Gochuumon wa Usagi Desu ka”.
Of course, if such moe cuteness is not your preference, then best you considering watching another series instead. Personally can’t wait until the next episode!

Had initially not planned on watching “selector infected WIXOSS”, an original anime production by JC Staff and Takara Tomy to promote the WIXOSS trading card game, but sampled its first two episodes on a whim.

In simplified terms “selector infected WIXOSS” feels like a dark, dramatic version of “Fantasista doll”, another science-fiction style action anime where the battle cards were avatars of cute girls that were somehow able to interact with their real-life wielders.

Even though watched quite a bit of “Fantasista doll”, ultimately dropped it as it became rather ridiculous. Must admit am somewhat apprehensive that “selector infected WIXOSS” too may quickly loose any appeal it has because it feels like such a dark, depressing series.

The overall visual atmosphere with its faded colors in a lifeless city landscape where the buildings and somber skies have a real oppressive feeling to them. In that aspect, the studio manages to create a really powerful atmosphere, but it may become too dark and overbearing for my personal taste.

Kakuma Ai voices Ruuko, she previously voiced Hato in “Genshiken Nidaime” and Hami in “Inu to Hasami wa Tsukaiyou”. Akasaki Chinatsu voices Akira, she also voiced Maki in “Love Lab”, Nibutani in “Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai!” and Yumi in “Gingitsune”.

Yuzuki is voiced by Sakura Ayane, she’s tackled roles like Natsumi in “Non Non Biyori”, Marii in “Joshiraku”, Akane in “Vividred Operation”, Mei in “Aiura” and also voices Cocoa in this season’s “Gochuumon wa Usagi Desu ka?”.

Bespectacled Hitoe is voiced by Kayano Ai who previously voiced Inori in “Guilty Crown”, Mashiro in “Sakurasou no Pet na Kanojo”, Chisaki in “Nagi no Asukara”, Saori in “Girls und Panzer” and Lucy in “Servant x Service”.

Lrigs Hanayo is voiced by Kawasumi Ayako, she voiced Saber in “Fate/stay night”, Kanako in “Genshiken”, Henrietta in “Zero no Tsukaima”, and Saki in “To Love RU”. Kuno Misaki voices Tama, she voiced Kate in “Sekai Seifuku – Bouryaku no Zvezda” and this season voices Saki in “Ryuugajou Nanana no Maizoukin” and Kurumiko in “Kanojo ga Flag wo Oraretara”.

“selector infected WIXOSS” has been an alright show so far so intend to keep on watching it for now, but in a season with many other appealing series and the possibility it may become too dark for my preferences, may end up dropping it.

Lucky day as two parcel with Dollfie Dream goods were delivered to my doorstep, including one packed with goods from Nine9Style.
Recently been re-evaluating the wardrobe of my various Dollfie Dream and felt some could use a new outfit or different fashion for a refreshed look.

Always been satisfied with the items purchased from Nine9Style and considering the perforated lace dress set previously bought from them looks lovely on Atsuko, took a chance and ordered similar styled dresses along with a pair of jeans and other assorted items.

The other parcel that arrived is from ラジカル. Although had often admired the more realistic physics and poses that Dollfie Dream comrades managed to capture of their dolls equipped with Peach Pai, never actually purchased them.

Not especially because of the silicone’s maintenance requirements, but mostly because the default Peach Pai size was too large for my personal taste. Considering Rajikaru added the M Plus type, a size about equal to the Volks L bust but smaller than the standard Peach Pai, took the plunge and ordered a set.
Can’t wait to try them on my Dollfie Dream!

One of the new shows was most looking forward to this season is “Mangaka-san to Assistant-san to”, the anime adaptation of the harem comedy manga “マンガ家さんとアシスタントさんと” by Hiroyuki.

Read the original manga and am also keeping up with the sequel that is currently being serialized. Really enjoyed this comedy manga that focuses on perverted but helpless manga author Aito and all the gorgeous female assistants and editors that flock around him.

The ecchi comedy sequences in “Mangaka-san to Assistant-san to” are somewhat similar in style to those in “Seitokai Yakuindomo”, and while the story does not especially advertise itself as a harem comedy, there are plenty of hilarious situations that arise with all those cute girls entering Aito’s life.

Although it does have harem elements and features ecchi comedy, overall everything is still innocent and mild enough, making the manga and its anime counterpart a terrific, entertaining comedy that will make anyone laugh. Reading the manga always brought a smile to my face, its classic formula of straight up ecchi comedy and other gags, while not very original, is always well balanced and filled with fun.

Large part what does make this story work well is how male protagonist Aito is portrayed, for a harem lead he is the classic and well known helpless goof type which works refreshingly well here.

Animation by studio Zexcs is alright though nothing impressive or exceptional, especially considering that in some scenes the show does seem to suffer from slight inconsistencies in character design. Overall though the studio manages to render the original designs by author Hiroyuki quite faithfully, which is a definite plus.

Judging by the official site’s character page, the anime will feature chief editor Matome and Asishu’s younger sister Sahono, but it does not look like they will introduce ridiculously cute trap editor Aoi or other mangaka like Ichika and Meisei who do appear in the manga.

Somewhat of a shame since was looking forward to seeing the chapters featuring Aoi adapted into anime form. Although the limited running time of each episode may also play into this since they have less time to cover all those chapters from the manga’s ten volumes.

While I am rather impressed with Hayami Saori and Noto Arisa’s voice work in the anime as Asishu and Mihari, do wonder why those characters are not voiced by the same voice talents who voiced them in the drama CD. It would have been a delight to have Noto Mamiko voice Asishu and Tomatsu Haruka voice Miharu.

Asishu is voiced by Hayami Saori who also voiced Izumiko in “RDG Red Data Girl”, Ayase in “Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga nai”, Yukino in “Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Come wa Machigatteiru”, Hina in “Buddy Complex” and she also voices Aoyama on this seasons “Gochuumon wa Usagi Desu ka” and Miyuki in “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei”.

Noto Arisa voices feisty editor Miharu, she previously voiced Kotori in “Kono Naka ni Hitori, Imouto ga Iru” and Sara in “Saki Achiga-hen episode of side-A”.

Bubbly Rinna is voiced by Iguchi Yuka who tackled roles like Yuu in “Sakura Trick”, Norie in “Tamayura”, Maria in “Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai”, Mako in “Girls und Panzer”, Index in “To aru Majutsu no Index” and Tsukihi in “Bakemonogatari”.

Who else but Kugimiya Rie could voice twin-tailed tsundere Sena? She previously voiced Chronoire in “Witch Craft Works”, Shana in “Shakuna no Shana”, Nagi in “Hayate no Gotoku!”, Louise in “Zero no Tsukaima” and Taiga in “Toradora!”.

Curious to see Tanaka Manami’s performance as mischievous chief editor Matome considering she previously voiced Alice in “Kiniro Mosaic”.

If you are looking for a fun comedy to watch this season, I do recommend you try “Mangaka-san to Assistant-san to”. It will definitely be one of this season’s top comedies for me.

Even though am not a fan of four panel manga and am unfamiliar with the original story, simply could not pass up on watching “Inugami-san to Nekoyama-san”, the anime based on the yuri comedy manga “犬神さんと猫山さん” by Kuzushiro.

This series feels similar to “Yuru Yuri” or “Sakura Trick”, though it is somewhat more explicit in yuri terms than “Yur Yuri” but far less so in terms of physical skinship than what was shown in “Sakura Trick”.

“Inugami-san to Nekoyama-san” does rely heavily on its personalities based on animal traits gimmick, especially for the main pair Suzu and Yachiyo, where shy tsundere Suzu is portrayed as very cat-like and lively, aloof Yachiyo is portrayed as quite dog-like.

Although most other characters’ personalities are also based on animals, do appreciate that the girls’ close friend Aki is not, she is the only sane and grounded person of the bunch, which makes her ideal to be the straight man during many of the silly gags.

While it is a shame that this anime features episodes that are only barely over three minutes long, considering the type of yuri comedy it features, must admit that this short running time seems to suit this show just fine. Can imagine full length episodes might suffer from too many lows or slumps.

Was surprised though that the art style and character design used by studio Seven in the anime episodes itself is somewhat different from the promotional illustration displayed on the official website. This is even more apparent considering that in some scenes the anime seems to suffer from slight inconsistencies in character design.

Sure it might just be a simple yuri comedy with a short running time, but would have preferred the studio to spend more care to deliver terrific animation instead, other series with short episodes like “Aiura”, “Yama no Susume” and “Go! Go! 575” prove it can be done.

Tsundere Suzu is voiced by Touyama Nao, she also voiced Karen in “Kiniro Mosaic”, Yune in “Ikoku Meiro no Croisée”, Chiho in “Hataraku Maou-sama”, Shizuka in “Aoki Hagane no Arpeggio” and she voices Chitoge in “Nisekoi”.

Uesaka Sumire voices Yachiyo, she’s tackled roles like Dekomori in “Chuunibyou demo Koi ga Shitai!”, Tamaki in “GJ-bu”, Elbia in “Outbreak Company” and Sora in “Papa no Iu Koto wo Kikinasai!”.

Aki is voiced by Outsubo Yuka who previously voiced Kyouko in “Yuru Yuri, Kurei in “Haiyore! Nyaruko-san”, Kyouko in “Yuru Yuri”, Wakaba in “Vividred Operation” and Azuki in “Go! Go! 575″.
Fujimoto Aoi who voices Yukiji and Horino Sayaka who voices Mikine do not seem to have any other roles credited to them.

As a fan of the yuri genre, am glad there is such a yuri comedy airing this season and so far really like “Inugami-san to Nekoyama-san”. Plan on watching the rest of this cute and silly yuri comedy.

Really enjoyed the first season of the “Love Live! School Idol Project” anime, so did not hesitate to pick up the sequel that started to air this spring season.

A multimedia project by studio Sunrise, music label Lantis and other corporations revolving around young girls who form an idol group in an attempt to prevent their school from being shut down, it not only spawned an anime but a manga, music and a game too.

As an idol genre series, it is of course similar to other idol shows like “the iDOLM@STER” or “Wake Up, Girls!”, though personally enjoyed “Love Live!” far more as it was more entertaining and its lively, upbeat songs lingered in my mind longer.

While the first season did have a few dramatic plot events, overall it had a very positive and uplifting atmosphere. Do appreciate how they refrained from having the characters reach all of their goals, especially the overly ambitious ones, all without leaving the audience hanging or feeling unsatisfied.

What struck me the most so far about this second season is the animation level and quality, have little doubt that after the success of the first season, studio Sunrise and its partners in the project significantly invested in this sequel, which shows.

Overall the animation is superb, with plenty of vivid colors and lots of attention going to rendering the girls as cute as possible, each of the girls having a unique style.

Next to the animation, everything else is pretty much identical to the first season, including the girls’ personalities, the catchy tunes of the opening and ending sequences along with the other typical idol style pop music inserted into the episodes.

Luckily the voice cast for all nine main girls reprise their roles in this sequel with lively Honoka voiced by Nitta Emi, she also voiced Elza in “Yuusha ni Narenakatta Ore wa Shibushibu Shuushoku wo Ketsui Shimashita” and Malga in “Kyoukai Senjou no Horizon”.

Uchida Aya voices Kotori, she previously voiced Ascoeur in “Kiddy Girl-and”, Kaede in “Yuru Yuri” and Shizuka in “Strike Witches”.

Umi is voiced by Mimori Suzuko, she’s tackled roles like Sarashiki in “IS: Infinite Stratos 2”, Himawari in “Yuru Yuri”, Myucel in “Outbreak Company” and Shion in “GJ-bu”.

Blonde Eri is voiced by Nanjou Yoshino who previously voiced Gankyou in “Joshiraku”, Maria in “Canaan” and Akiho in “Robotics;notes”.
Tokui Sora voices feisty Nico, she voiced Sasami in “Little Busters!”, Katia in “Fantasista doll” and this season also voices Maya in “Gochuumon wa Usagi Desu ka”.

Maki is voiced by Pile, Kusuda Aina voices Nozomi and Rin is voiced by Iida Riho, all of whom don’t seem to have any other roles credited to their name. Kubo Yurika who voices Hanayo previously voiced Hiyori in “Kotoura-san”.

Season two of “Love Live! School Idol Project” is a fixed weekly rendezvous on my anime watching calendar and so far am loving this sequel.

If you like idol genre series then you simply cannot miss this show and if you are looking for an upbeat and fun anime to watch, then I can recommend ”Love Live!”, though it is advised to have watched the first season before starting this sequel.

Also known as “Magica Wars”, this franchise which originally spawned from a variety show and already has several related game adaptations, gets the anime treatment with a two cour series of four minute long episodes by studio Gainax.

“魔法少女大戦” personifies each of Japan’s prefectures as a magical girl whose character design is determined though a contest on Pixiv. Considering the first three episodes only showed us one magical girl in action compared to large cast advertised the anime’s official website, seems that this series will comprised of multiple arcs, each arc focusing on one girl and the prefecture she heirs from.

Studio Gainax might just be perfect to animate such a silly magical girl series comprised of short episodes as their style is well suited to portray the silly shenanigans of the various girls.

Visually there are some similarities with their other works like “Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann”, especially in the styling of the background scenery and characters, the animation of magical girls though is sufficiently detailed.

Enjoyed these first few episodes of “Mahou Shoujo Taisen” and will keep on watching this comedy, especially since it only takes a few minutes anyway.

Although introduced Ayuko, one of the latest additions to my Dollfie Dream collection, only a few months ago, made a rather significant change by transplanting her to a Volks DDII type body.

Originally wanted to create a Dollfie Dream based on Ayuko from “Aiura”, so purchased a DDS body from Volks which fit the original character’s short stature.

However, the final look of the customized Neris head with gray Hisyo-Hisyo eyes and a gray LeekeWorld wig were far better suited to a more adult look.

Opted for a simple swap, switched Ayuko to the DDII that was initially used by Shizuko and put the smaller DDS body to good use on Shizuko. Turned out to be a much better match for both.

First outfit had clad Ayuko in was the Sailor Tulle Skirt Set from Volks, but for the DDII body with the L size shapely bust from Volks changed it to a combination of items from CoolCat, including a black mini skirt, black long tie halter top and a white off shoulder knitted sweater.

Hoped to create a relaxed, yet also sensual look, visually inspired by the style of lovely Aura from DD comrade Haku.

こら、何を見ているんですか。

But the changes for Ayuko do not end there! Bought a Peach Pai M Plus part from Rajikaru which arrived last week, have since installed it onto the DDII body, so you can look forward to new photos of Ayuko soon.

You can see more Dollfie Dream photos on Flickr.

The promotional trailer for “Knights of Sidonia”, the anime adaptation of the “シドニアの騎士” manga by Nihei Tsutomu, looked very promising, so I was anxious to watch this new science fiction anime.

Although I have not read the manga, after these three first episodes am quite impressed with “Sidonia no Kishi” and cannot wait to see the rest. Have high hopes for this show and am curious to see how the political intrigues, the various character interactions, sci-fi mysteries and its mecha action will all play out.

Looking at the basic plot and some of its core elements, one could suggest this series is somewhat similar to “Shingeki no Kyojin”, but in “Knights of Sidonia” mankind is technologically very advanced, though that did not prevent them from being driven to the brink of extinction, cursed to forever wander through space, on the run from an alien threat.

Like “Shingeki no Kyojin”, there’s much more to the story than the continuous threat of a horrible death at the hands of an impossibly powerful foe, there’s also internal strife, political intrigue, machinations hidden behind the scenes and unethical experiments. Plenty of elements to make a thrilling sci-fi story.

Last year’s “Arpeggio of Blue Steel: Ars Nova” anime proved that CG rendered anime is viable when used for a franchise that visually would fit with its typical look. “Sidonia no Kishi” is definitely a show where this animation method is a suitably fitting style.

Obviously the mecha and spaceships benefit from such CG rendering, but for this franchise, having the characters fully rendered in CG also fits well enough, especially considering the cast features clones too.

Whereas in “Arpeggio of Blue Steel: Ars Nova” the CG rendered animation style seemed to have quite the challenge in rendering colors similar to anime made with more traditional animation, here in “Knights of Sidionia” the stark contrast of light and dark, the lack of color in most of the spaceship interior backgrounds are emphasized thanks to the CG rendered animation.

Aiding the overall atmosphere, the haunting feeling of the alien threat and the brooding, depressing colorless interior of Sidonia, the exodus ship that may be mankind its last home and hope, become much more tangible thanks to the absence of bright, lively colors. Instead, the abundance of identical, faded colors or tones of white, gray and black, helps set the mood for the show’s rather dark story.

Shizuka is voiced by Suzaki Aya who also voiced Mako in “Kill la Kill”, Tamako in “Tamako Market” and also voices Kana in this season’s “Gokukoku no Brynhildr”.

Toyosaki Aki voices Izana, she previously voiced Yui in “K-ON!”, Yoshino in “Minami-ke”, Chitose in “Yuru Yuri”, Uiharu in “To aru Kagaku no Railgun”, Megumi in “Servant x Service” and this season also voices Seitenshi in “Black Bullet” and Tsumugi in “Kanojo ga Flag wo Oraretara”.

Yuhata is voiced by Kanemoto Hisako, she’s tackled roles like Ika Musume in “Shinryaku! Ika Musume”, Makoto in “Gingitsune”, Amy in “Suisei no Gargantia”, Kanata in “So-Ra-No-Wo-To” and she also voices Sayaka in this season’s “Bokura wa Minna Kawaisou”.

Kitamura Eri voices the Honoka clones, she also voiced Yachiyo in “Working!!”, Uchida in “Minami-ke”, Allean in “Queen’s Blade”, Karen in “Bakemonogatari”, Miu in “Papa no Iukoto wo Kikinasai” and Ami in “Toradora!”.

Dorm leader Lala is voiced by Satomi Arai who previously voiced Kuroko in “To Aru Kagaku No Railgun”, Hata in “Seitokai Yakuindomo” and Kozue in “Mahoraba ~Heartful Days~”.

I will definitely keep on watching “Knights of Sidonia” and highly recommend it to fans of science fiction and mecha anime.

Light novel series “魔法科高校の劣等生” written by Satou Tsutomu, which has already spawned several manga adaptations and even a Playstation Vita game, gets a two cour anime adaptation that recently started.

Although it sounds all about magic, it is really a science-fiction story too since in the setting of “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei”, magic is used and intertwined with advanced technology that have shaped the world.

Considering the importance and power of those who can wield magic, they are not simply offered the best possible education to hone their skills, but their school’s system showcases growing rifts within society itself where the most powerful magic wielders become an elite that lords over the others.

To those strong social themes in a futuristic setting, “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei” adds plenty of action, strife, a large cast of characters including a male protagonist shrouded in plenty of mystery and his sister who seems just a bit too affectionate of her own brother.

Have enjoyed watching this series so far, even though it has not really broken the mold by bringing us anything novel or shocking. Nonetheless, it has been a solid, standard action anime about people with powers, who even though they in a futuristic world, still face many challenges and strife.

While Miyuki being a brocon has mainly been used for comedic relief, am not sure personally want the series to elaborate on that plot or make it into something more serious. Although do suspect they may explain her behavior by showing tragedy that Tatsuya (and she?) suffered in the past, which has been hinted to.

Animation by Madhouse Studios is rather good, with lots of care going into rendering the characters facial traits, making them look even more dazzling as if their stylish uniforms were not sufficient to that end.
Nice to see that Kana Ishida who created the illustrations for the light novels, is also the character designer for the anime, making the adaptation more faithful to the original look.

Miyuki is voiced by Hayami Saori, who also voiced Ayase in “Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga nai”, Yukino in “Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Come wa Machigatteiru”, Izumiko in “Red Data Girl” and this season also voices Asishu in “Mangaka-san to Assistent-san to”.

Satou Satomi voices bespectacled Mizuki, she has voiced Ritsu in “K-ON!”, Chitanda in “Hyouka”, Aria in “Seitokai Yakuindomo”, Sakura in “Kiniro Mosaic” and voices Chiya in this season’s “Gochuumon wa Usagi Desu ka?”.

Erika is voiced by Uchiyama Yumi, she’s tackled roles like Nagi in “A Channel”, Youko in “Kiniro Mosaic”, Ruri in “Nisekoi” and this season she also voices Shiki in “Ryuugajou Nanana no Maizoukin”.

Hanazawa Kana voices student council president Mayumi, she also voiced Charlotte in “IS: Infinite Stratos”, Ruri in “Ore no Imouto ga Konna ni Kawaii Wake ga Nai”, Kobato in “Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai”, Roka in “D-Frag!”, Onodera in “Nisekoi” and also voices Ritsu in this season’s “Bokura wa Minna Kawaisou”.

Leader of the public morals committee Mari is voiced by Inoue Marina, who also voiced Kana in “Minami-ke”, Matsurika in “Maria†Holic”, Yozora in “Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai”, Laura in “IS: Infinite Stratos” and Yumiko in “Yahari Ore no Seishun Love Come wa Machigatteiru”.

Tomatsu Haruka voices Sayaka, she’s tackled roles like Asuna in “Sword Art Online”, Haruka in “Sakura Trick”, Saki in “Kakumeiki Valvrave”, Shizuku in “Tonari no Kaibutsu and Ichika in “Ano Natsu de Matteru”.

Will keep on watching this series as I have rather enjoyed it so far.
For those of you looking for an entertaining action anime without bearing too high expectations, then definitely do try “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei”.

Based on the light novel series “ブラック・ブレット”by Kanzaki Shiden, spring season’s new action anime “Black Bullet” is a typical science-fiction tale, mankind fights to survive in a post apocalyptic world where most of the population has been wiped out by a virus that transforms them into monsters called Gastrea.

Each of the main characters was in some way scarred by the first Gastrea epidemic, Rentarou not only lost his parents but several limbs, making him nearly half cyborg, Enju is a cursed child, born from a woman infected with the virus, while Kisara also lost her parents.

Do wonder if it was the writers intent on emphasizing that all surviving people were somehow affected by the Gastrea tragedy, or if they opted to simply burden each character with a dark past for plot reasons.

The story moves along quite fast, was surprised when the first plot was wrapped up in the first four episodes and its accompanying nemesis character seemingly defeated to give way to a new plot the following episode. Since they have already moved onto the second novel’s story, wonder how much the anime will actually cover.

To be brutally honest, should label this show as mediocre, especially considering it is simply an amalgam of tried and true elements and as such doesn’t really bring anything new or daring to its story which so far has not proven itself to be exceptionally well crafted either.

While I do appreciate all the hard work being put into the series by its creators and have enjoyed watching it so far, do feel that I must be honest enough to myself and all of you by admitting this is yet another sufficiently entertaining anime that is not especially good.

“Black Bullet” is decent enough and its production values have enough quality, but at the end of the day it is one of the many series like we see dozens each year. It is entertaining enough to watch but will likely be quickly forgotten as its individual parts of story, characters, animation and the whole anime they form when put together are alas nothing exceptional.

Perhaps am being overly critical or too demanding, but noticed that this season many of the series am watching, especially the action shows, are simply more of the usual that do not leave a lasting impression.

Twin-tailed Enju is voiced by Hidaka Rina who also voiced Last Order in “To aru Majutsu no Index”, Ririchiyo in “Inu x Boku SS”, Hozuki in “Galileo Donna”, Silica in “Sword Art Online” and Anko in “Tamako Market”.

Horie Yui voices katana wielding Kisara, she’s voiced characters like Kouko in “Golden Time”, Millhiore in “Dog Days”, Hanekawa in “Bakemonogatari”, Minori in “Toradora!” and Raika in “Papa no Iu Koto wo Kikinasai”.

Seitenshi is voiced by Toyosaki Aki who tackled roles like Yui in “K-ON!”, Uiharu in “To aru Kagaku no Railgun”, Megumi in “Servant x Service”, Nako in “Hanasaku Iroha” and Chitose in “Yuru Yuri”. This season she also voices Izana in “Knights of Sidonia”.

Koshimizu Ami voices Miori, she also voiced Horo in “Spice & Wolf”, Kallen in “Code Geass”, Ryuuko in “KILL la KILL”, Mugino in “To aru Kagaku no Railgun S”, Nodoka in “Saki” and this season also voices Linca in “Atelier Escha & Logy ~Tasogare no Sora no Renkinjutsushi~”.

If you are looking for a science-fiction action anime with all the typical elements, then “Black Bullet” might entertain you although you should not expect too much from this series.

Adapting the “一週間フレンズ”manga by Matcha Hazuki into anime form, “One Week Friends” promises to be a romantic drama that will pull on your heartstrings. The first few episodes already contain plenty of heartbreaking scenes and endearing moments that will leave no one unmoved.

Am not really fond of drama series so was somewhat unsure if I would really like “Isshuukan Friends”, but so far the show has managed to keep a careful balance between drama and uplifting, joyful moments in its emotional scenes.

While key dramatic events in each episode of “Isshuukan Friends” do grab hold of you and may even cause you to shed a few tears, the show follows such sad events up with positive scenes. Which is something I do welcome since each episode has already been very moving and depending on how it all works out, may make this a story to remember.

If one were to fault the series, it would be for the convenience of many events that have an auspiciously perfect timing, or the character’s various reactions that fit a bit too perfectly in the chain of events without necessarily feeling very realistic.

Likewise for Kaori’s condition or Saki’s bubbly forgetfulness, their reactions sometimes seem less natural but rather as if they were scripted to fit the current scene. Which of course, is actually the case since this is a fictional story.

Studio Brain’s Base delivers excellent work animating “One Week Friends”, with a good animation level overall, they manage to give it that little bit extra by making good use of lighting and shadow or switching to subdued, pastel colors for the background to give scenes a softer atmosphere.

Worthy of note too is how well Brain’s Base animates the various expressions of Kaori, whom due to her behavior, switches from a facade of stern frowns to more natural expressions and endearing smiles. The studio manages to animate this wide range of expressions of Kaori such that she remains a believably realistic character displaying her various emotions.

Kaori is voiced by Amamiya Sora who also voiced Aika in “Sekai de Ichiban Tsuyoku Naritai!”, Liliana in “Log Horizon” and this season also voices Honoka in “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei”.

Ookubo Rumi voices Saki, she’s tackled roles like Touko in “Servant x Service”, Chinatsu in “Yuru Yuri”, Kazuki in “Galilei Donna” and Yuzuko in “Yuyushiki”.

Kaori’s mother Shiho is voiced by Nakahara Mai, she previously voiced Saya in “Servant x Service”, Nagisa in “Clannad”, Rena in “Higurashi no Naku Koro ni” and Nagisa in “Strawberry Panic”. This season she also voices Ayano in “Mekaku City Actors” and Suzune in “Mahouka Koukou no Rettousei”.

If you’re looking for an anime with endearing characters and plenty of touching moments, then do recommend “Isshuukan Friends”, it has been a wonderful story so far.

Was somewhat apprehensive about “Kanojo ga Flag wo Oraretara”, the anime adaptation of light novel series “彼女がフラグをおられたら” by Takei Touka, but decided to give the series a try anyway.

Although did enjoy the first few episodes of this series, will not watch the rest as overall this harem comedy has only a few elements that really capture my attention, such as trap-like character Megumu.

Despite decent enough production values, it remains a typical harem comedy show filled with characters, events and story elements that fit the genre’s well known and overused templates. The gimmick of lead character Souta being able to see ‘flags’ and having to go on a quest to change his fate and uncover the truth behind his ability felt little more than an unimaginative plot device.

Animation by Hoods Entertainment is fair, although it does not particularly excel and plenty of scenes in most episodes are in fact more towards a mediocre level than good. Unsurprisingly, most attention goes to rendering the girls as cute as possible, the female cast is the selling point of most harem comedies after all.

For those of you who like typical harem comedy anime, “Kanojo ga Flag wo Oraretara” might be right up your alley, so you might want to give the show a try.

Recently acquired some new gear from Nine9Style as well as a Peach Pai M Plus silicone bust from Rajikaru, so it’s time to showcase some images of my Dollfie Dream featuring these latest purchases.

Snapped some photos of Ayuko and Kyouko together, as well as photos of each individually. Tried to capture an atmosphere as if the girls were going out on a lovely springtime day.

Lighting for all photos is indirect sunlight coming through a skylight and front window, also used a a small circular golden reflector for extra highlights in some shots.
The background used is a simple green carpet from Ikea, though personally feel it looks best when out of focus like in below photo.

It’s Ayuko who benefits the most from the new goodies, sporting not only a new outfit but also the Peach Pai M Plus bust.

Considering Rajikaru’s current creations ideally only fit the DDII and DDDy bodies, it made sense to install it on Ayuko’s DDII body.

So far am impressed with the Peach Pai. Not only for its better aesthetic in many outfits compared to the hard vinyl bust pieces, but the increased mobility of the neck is a big plus too.

Quite glad I opted for the M Plus model, its size is just in between the M and L from Volks, making it sizable but not overly so. Since the entire piece is soft silicone, it easily fits into Dollfie Dream clothing suitable for M bust or smaller.

Got the red halterneck one-piece from Nine9Style, opted for the set because it also includes a knit cardigan and lace straw bag, adding two versatile items.

Must admit I did hesitate before deciding on the red version instead of the other blue color set, wouldn’t want such a dress to be an overly bright red. Luckily this hue is more subdued and so far does not seem to stain the vinyl or silicone.

Wanted Kyouko’s look to contrast Ayuko’s feminine and cute appearance so opted for an outfit that would look more tomboyish.
Combined pants and shoes from Dollmore, a sleeveless shirt and beanie from Nine9Style, and a BRS style zipper hoodie from Murasaki.me.

Even though Kyouko may look like the more tomboyish and adventurous of the two, it seems that Ayuko is the one on top!
Of course couldn’t resist to include some yuri shenanigans.

You can see more of my Dollfie Dream photography on Flickr.

Spotted some lovely daisy flowers growing in the garden and knew their pure white petals would be a perfect match for Dollfie Dream Atsuko clad in a white dress, so picked out a few of the pristine looking daisies to snap some photos of Atsuko with them.

The common daisy or bellis perennis may be a rather plain little flower, but it suits Atsuko’s pure and sweet look just right.

Bought it quite some time ago, took a chance with this white perforated lace dress from Nine9Style considering had not tried such girly fashion style for my Dollfie Dream before. Am very pleased with it though as it looks lovely, especially on Atsuko.

Did omit the white headband while using the daisy flower as an improvised hair ornament in above photos as I not only wanted it to properly contrast with Atsuko’s dark colored wig, but also wanted it to be the main focus point.

Lighting used for these photos is natural light of the early evening sun coming in through a plain glass window on the side. Using a wide aperture to get plenty of bokeh also created a nice effect with the evening light cast on the wooden paneling in the background.

You can see more Dollfie Dream photography on my Flickr photostream.