tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-62172377483014533972024-03-15T21:12:02.038-04:00An editorial based anime blog, that dares to be different. Come learn and experience otaku culture!Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.comBlogger269125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-70745966421101385632018-12-31T23:53:00.001-05:002018-12-31T23:53:30.701-05:00Happy New Year from Shooting Star Dreamer!<br />
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jcEhnZMqhRQ/XCryNZr_oeI/AAAAAAAASd4/Ub7a1Cqw3fUsxRNxBcenh68E9d3ip5ZwwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/girl-hair-red-kimono-wallpaper.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-jcEhnZMqhRQ/XCryNZr_oeI/AAAAAAAASd4/Ub7a1Cqw3fUsxRNxBcenh68E9d3ip5ZwwCK4BGAYYCw/s640/girl-hair-red-kimono-wallpaper.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Once again, it's the end of the year! Throughout this year, a lot of things have changed for this blog and for me. Though it is harder for me to keep Shooting Star Dreamer consistently updated, I cannot help but make a New Year's post for you all.<br />
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As New Year approached things have felt somewhat different than before. I feel that the anime community and anime in general has been changing, or perhaps even evolving. Whether this is a good or bad thing, I am not sure. All I know is that it has changed my approach to anime. (and my frequency of keeping up with anime)<br />
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Something that has not changed though is my tradition of creating New Year's Resolutions. After thinking over my resolutions in depth, I do not believe they are goals to simply be met in the future. If these goals aren't met but are worked towards, then the progress and growth is still there. Completing the goal isn't necessarily the point of resolutions, its just to have a guide to work towards.<br />
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Another thing I've realized; New Year's Resolutions are not always simply thought up at the end of the year. I've gathered information and signs of things that need improvement, but these come to me consistently over the course of the year.<br />
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My New Year's Resolution for next year is not necessarily a single thing. My goal is to take advantage of opportunities that are available; to gain skills, experience, and to better myself when possible. This carries on from some of my old New Year's resolutions of self-care, which is something I plan to focus on as well.<br />
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I encourage everyone else to set goals for themselves, even if they are small. Just working towards these goals and having something to keep you on track will help you make sure you Don't Lose Your Way.<br />
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Have a happy 2019 Everyone!Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-28723556455491122912018-08-08T23:13:00.002-04:002018-08-08T23:14:50.671-04:00ERASED: Life Gives Second Chances<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NxDt_zP0sow/W2uffQ3J4-I/AAAAAAAARJc/Ow1lkneKvU01hMS-3pWsIch3ga8F4iaMgCLcBGAs/s1600/ERASED.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Erased, Boku Dake ga Inai Machi" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NxDt_zP0sow/W2uffQ3J4-I/AAAAAAAARJc/Ow1lkneKvU01hMS-3pWsIch3ga8F4iaMgCLcBGAs/s640/ERASED.png" title="Erased, Boku Dake ga Inai Machi" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
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<b>THIS POST MAY CONTAIN SPOILERS!</b></div>
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When we watch anime, common tropes are almost always used. The slice of life genre especially contains the same high school setting with the average protagonist. Of course, they're not carbon copies; they mix in new elements to change things up, but the formula is the same. Yet we don't ever get to see different settings, new experiences, and changes. Taking a chance at a new story is risky, but this kind of alternative experience is much needed. This is where anime such as <a href="https://myanimelist.net/anime/31043/Boku_dake_ga_Inai_Machi">Boku dake ga Inai Machi</a> or ERASED, come into play.<br />
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ERASED tells a story about a unique individual and the mystery surrounds the world around him. The main character is <a href="https://myanimelist.net/character/98737/Satoru_Fujinuma">Satoru Fujinuma</a>. He's somewhat of the average protagonist, but he's older at the ripe age of 29. His life isn't exactly going as planned, as he struggles to hit it big as a manga artist. The only benefit he has is that he has the ability to repeat certain events, going back in time to stop catastrophes. </div>
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From the beginning I thought that the series would revolve completely around his powers, featuring everyday situations and being a small-time superhero. This expectation was completely blown out the water when he gets sent back in time, to solve a murder mystery that happened during his grade school days. </div>
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It starts with the murder of his mother, with him being framed as the culprit. Becoming a fugitive and then forced back to the past, he then has to relive this point of his life with an adult mindset and a newfound drive to stop the murders.</div>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ln69nBuHlqY/W2usDbooF3I/AAAAAAAARKM/6ROYKQA6vEw91vVLwHQpyOQdoU5EDllqQCLcBGAs/s1600/ERASED-5.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ERASED, boku dake ga inai machi" border="0" data-original-height="358" data-original-width="639" height="358" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ln69nBuHlqY/W2usDbooF3I/AAAAAAAARKM/6ROYKQA6vEw91vVLwHQpyOQdoU5EDllqQCLcBGAs/s640/ERASED-5.png" title="ERASED, boku dake ga inai machi" width="640" /></a></div>
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Although we may not get the chance to redo our past, we can learn from it. In ERASED Satoru is literally given a second chance at life to fix his mistakes and solve mysteries. While he may be changing the past, ultimately he is changing the future. </div>
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This I believe is a metaphor for how we as humans make mistakes in life, but need to reexamine them to do better in the future. The things that Satoru experienced in life, are things that we all deal with. Changing oneself to fit into the crowd, avoiding risks, and not believing that we are control of our lives and ourselves are common problems. For Satoru, it took him 29 years and a little outside help to realize this, but for everyone else, it's a change we can make now.</div>
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This moral is shown as Satoru relives grade school, discovering that a student in his class is the first victim. Her name is <a href="https://myanimelist.net/character/126756/Kayo_Hinazuki">Kayo Hinazuki</a>, the girl in school who keeps to herself and comes from an abusive household. She is linked to Satoru's past life. As a child, our protagonist wanted to make an effort and talk to her, but could never bring himself to. This time, he decides to interact with her, becoming close friends and forming an even child-like romantic relationship. Although he improves her life and tries his best to save the girl from abuse and murder, he is ultimately unsuccessful. </div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3YDXBKqEWZE/W2ur-fENpYI/AAAAAAAARKI/T2IGftJtoOc40FaYpTKWvLfC7UVbVVl4QCLcBGAs/s1600/ERASED-6.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ERASED, boku dake ga inai machi" border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="638" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3YDXBKqEWZE/W2ur-fENpYI/AAAAAAAARKI/T2IGftJtoOc40FaYpTKWvLfC7UVbVVl4QCLcBGAs/s640/ERASED-6.png" title="ERASED, boku dake ga inai machi" width="640" /></a></div>
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He again is forcibly time-warped to the future, back to his unfavorable predicament. He is saved and sheltered by his co-worker, <a href="https://myanimelist.net/character/130213/Airi_Katagiri">Airi Katagari</a>, the girl who is linked to his future life. When things seem bleak he takes the time travel into his own hands and gets sent back to the past once again.</div>
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Beforehand, Satoru mostly tried to go at life alone. He corrects his mistakes of the past but finds it hard to cover all bases, especially in stopping the murder, by himself. He learned from his errors but also learns that he cannot do everything alone.</div>
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By taking influences from both the past and future, we learn that both are important, and getting too caught up in either can be detrimental. A very large lesson that is also shown is that life is a lot harder when you work alone, so finding trustworthy companions is the way to success. In Satoru's third chance in the past, he learns from this and puts his faith in his comrades. The rest is history.</div>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nf4qkxVGad0/W2usEGCDZqI/AAAAAAAARKQ/AXIqei8G2IUPGA9-cPpwaiphPmwLlQPGACLcBGAs/s1600/ERASED-7.png" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="ERASED, boku dake ga inai machi" border="0" data-original-height="360" data-original-width="640" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-nf4qkxVGad0/W2usEGCDZqI/AAAAAAAARKQ/AXIqei8G2IUPGA9-cPpwaiphPmwLlQPGACLcBGAs/s640/ERASED-7.png" title="ERASED, boku dake ga inai machi" width="640" /></a></div>
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ERASED may focus on the magic powers and seem unrealistic, yet it touches on very real topics. In reality, humans may not be able to relive their younger days and fix every single thing they've done wrong. However, this is not the point of the series. </div>
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I believe the message is that change happens when you believe in yourself and the control of your destiny. When you're willing to have this kind of mindset, nothing can stop you, at least not forever. This means pulling yourself up from a hopeless situation and moving forward. In a sense, you can create your own second chances, similarly to how Satoru did.</div>
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This anime is chock full of things to write about that I can't fit them all into one post, but if you'd like to hear more about ERASED, please let me know! I'd definitely like to recommend the anime to everyone, and more information about it can be found at its <a href="https://myanimelist.net/anime/31043/Boku_dake_ga_Inai_Machi">MyAnimeList page</a>. </div>
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As always, thank you for reading!</div>
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Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-46749027231121619342018-08-06T22:33:00.000-04:002018-08-06T22:33:07.070-04:00The Key to Naruto's Success: Empathy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_QZbNSRTaP8/W2kEoUqEWzI/AAAAAAAARJA/gUVb7dfRSJgJnSTI7HLnSRfarrU89QifACLcBGAs/s1600/Naruto.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Naruto Empathy" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_QZbNSRTaP8/W2kEoUqEWzI/AAAAAAAARJA/gUVb7dfRSJgJnSTI7HLnSRfarrU89QifACLcBGAs/s640/Naruto.png" title="Naruto Empathy" width="640" /></a></div>
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What makes Naruto such a successful person? Many people have examined and discussed his different traits, his personality, and even the values instilled into him. Yet, I think that while we're looking at the core of Naruto's character, we've forgotten something really important.<br />
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Naruto, has the ability to understand others and their feelings. He can sense the malice of his enemies and the pain of others. Naruto can understand exactly what they went through and relate, enough to become friends with the people he once called foes. While this seems very simple and straightforward, I feel this sort of understanding isn't a normal thing that everyone has.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-04LxMzSD-Go/U5VXUPDtJpI/AAAAAAAAEb0/goRw9XGKBQQ/s1600/HPNbVWwJV4g.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Naruto and Sasuke" border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-04LxMzSD-Go/U5VXUPDtJpI/AAAAAAAAEb0/goRw9XGKBQQ/s1600/HPNbVWwJV4g.jpg" title="Naruto and Sasuke" width="400" /></a></div>
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First, let's take a look at empathy. Most of us probably know exactly what sympathy is, when we feel sorry for someone else due to their problems. <b>Empathy is a little different; it can be described as literally feeling other's pain or emotions.</b><br />
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While Naruto possesses sympathy, I feel he also has empathy. Sasuke, Naruto's life-long rival, also appears to possess some sort of empathy surprisingly. I think this contributes to the fact why Sasuke and Naruto are so similar, yet also very different. Having empathy for others can be a sorrowful curse or a beneficial power. By digging deeper, the comparison will be more clear.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Naruto is easily able to uncover Sakura's true feelings, due to his empathy.</td></tr>
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I'm sure many would be surprised that Sasuke, the cool and collected individual has empathy. The answer is yes, he definitely does. Naruto and Sasuke both ended up hating the village. Naruto never had the chance to meet his parents, and was forced to carry around the Nine Tails within his body. Many of the villagers were hurt physically and emotionally from the demon's attack, thus creating hatred inside of them.<br />
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However, the Nine Tails is no longer free, but there was absolutely no one to blame for the pain caused. Therefore, the victim became Naruto, the closest thing to the sealed fox. Naruto, even at the mere age of a child has some sort of empathy, as we can assume that the hatred he received from the villagers bounced back. He felt their hate and negative feelings for him, therefore he had no reason to think highly of them.<br />
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Sasuke was a little different. He started off with a family and had them taken from him. Itachi Uchiha put on a mask and told Sasuke to hate and grow stronger, these emotions also were absorbed by him and in turn, shaped him into the person he is now. Even though he become reserved, arrogant, and gained a one-track mind, Sasuke deep down was still the old Sasuke. His experiences and the emotions he picked up from others shaped him.<br />
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Everything after this point came down to personality. Naruto was able to gain control of his empathy and use it protect his friends and others. Sasuke began to awaken this again, caring more about his comrades and less about revenge. However, with his meeting with Itachi, hatred was again pushed into his heart. Naruto had his moments of doubt, but continued to relate and believe in others, contrary to Sasuke's development. While Sasuke shut off his feelings for others, Naruto increased his. Despite this, Sasuke could not cut his bond with Naruto.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AkDgpUtCYrU/W2kEbusZdRI/AAAAAAAARI8/6oeDnHwNKlw7hJicX6VFSmrpYX43tp00QCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/1638d0049e55ef5d738022f11aa87f158c362e9bv2_hq.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-AkDgpUtCYrU/W2kEbusZdRI/AAAAAAAARI8/6oeDnHwNKlw7hJicX6VFSmrpYX43tp00QCK4BGAYYCw/s400/1638d0049e55ef5d738022f11aa87f158c362e9bv2_hq.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Sasuke takes a dark turn and Naruto takes the lighter path. What makes them different if they're so similar you might? The answer is the way they use their abilities they have been blessed with, and the choices they make. Sasuke and Naruto both have the ability to understand and inspire others. They aren't necessarily natural leaders, but their experiences have allowed them to gain the power to lead.<br />
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However, due to Naruto developing the gifts he was blessed with and using them for good, he's never alone. Being able to understand everyone allows anyone to open up to him. He can inspire even the coldest hearts with his compassion. These simple traits are the key to Naruto's success.<br />
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Naruto doesn't sacrifice others for the sake of his goals, he brings them with him and still does what he wants. Naruto doesn't look down on the people who are suffering, he understands their pain and helps them improve. The ninja doesn't change himself for anyone, even though he can feel emotions and share them with others. Naruto walks forward and follows what he believes in, but does it with respect for others. I believe these facts, are the reason why Naruto is so successful.Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-44989763986304098352018-08-03T22:35:00.000-04:002018-08-03T22:35:16.898-04:00Honoka Kousaka Birthday Tribute<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-576NWF1RQq4/W2UQrgnduoI/AAAAAAAARIQ/ymmgAEoce_cGFVxcqI3iJ_HChM2HFLTogCLcBGAs/s1600/HONOKA.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Honoka Kousaka Birthday Tribute" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-576NWF1RQq4/W2UQrgnduoI/AAAAAAAARIQ/ymmgAEoce_cGFVxcqI3iJ_HChM2HFLTogCLcBGAs/s640/HONOKA.png" title="Honoka Kousaka Birthday Tribute" width="640" /></a></div>
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Today is August 3rd, 2018, which is Honoka Kousaka's birthday! I'd like to wish Honoka a happy birthday, and give her a tribute on Shooting Star Dreamer!<br />
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Honoka Kousaka is an idol from the series Love Live: School Idol Project. She's the driving force of the idol group and the focal character of the series. She's not necessarily the most skilled or intelligent, but she's willing to work hard for what she believes in. This inspires people of various backgrounds to follow her, making her a wonderful leader.<br />
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This isn't my first time making a post for Honoka, but I believe she deserves the spotlight because of how much I love her as a character. Her outgoing attitude and optimism is something that the world needs nowadays.<br />
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Below is a showcase from the community, expressing their love for Honoka!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Honoka Kousaka Shrine" height="480" src="https://i.redditmedia.com/vfk1ICt3xsOCQozPR_htKCOjgH1QU_smUY6KiooYG7c.jpg?fit=crop&crop=faces%2Centropy&arh=2&w=960&s=55aed7979ffb418a017d3553eaf18778" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Honoka Kousaka Shrine" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Honoka Kousaka Shrine, from <a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/LoveLive/comments/94cl43/my_small_shrine_in_celebration_of_honokas_birthday/">Reddit.</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Honoka Kousaka Birthday Cake" height="640" src="https://pbs.twimg.com/media/DjrOUFZVsAACGnI.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Honoka Kousaka Birthday Cake" width="462" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://twitter.com/nittaemi85/status/1025358714876751872?s=19">Birthday cake from Emi Nitta, Honoka's voice actress/seiyuu.</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Honoka Kousaka Tribute" height="526" src="https://i.redd.it/vrtdzb0fzxd11.png" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Honoka Kousaka Tribute" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/SchoolIdolFestival/comments/94dga5/happy_birthday_honoka_heres_a_very_special/">A tribute from Reddit use DakinaMGF!</a><br />
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<tr><td><img alt="Honoka Kousaka Shrine" height="360" src="https://i.redditmedia.com/kUZVXWGuQ02d2kl3ElTxrlPAdQSxqWh2fJZruX_2hr4.jpg?fit=crop&crop=faces%2Centropy&arh=2&w=960&s=b517c5d75a45a3cb07eb4d9f1ed8bb19" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Honoka Kousaka Shrine" width="640" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption"><a href="https://www.reddit.com/r/LoveLive/comments/944vwj/my_shrine_isnt_as_impressive_as_others_but_happy/">Another Reddit shrine, linked here.</a><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-ovqUDCVx8/W2UQApHZnTI/AAAAAAAARII/gO7VtY_E1Q8vpJQDkADUxjCOns2PItZywCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/20180803_222938_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-q-ovqUDCVx8/W2UQApHZnTI/AAAAAAAARII/gO7VtY_E1Q8vpJQDkADUxjCOns2PItZywCK4BGAYYCw/s640/20180803_222938_HDR.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Lastly, here the few Honoka figurines I have!<br />
<br /></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-6553229093450045582018-08-01T22:15:00.000-04:002018-08-03T18:40:18.619-04:00RWBY: Amity Arena Overview<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aO2vbBZsW6c/W2JhBfv7ejI/AAAAAAAARHQ/V6-v_dVh1j4niVYAcEXzJPRyI9G6U4iFQCLcBGAs/s1600/RWBY.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="RWBY Amity Arena" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aO2vbBZsW6c/W2JhBfv7ejI/AAAAAAAARHQ/V6-v_dVh1j4niVYAcEXzJPRyI9G6U4iFQCLcBGAs/s640/RWBY.png" title="RWBY Amity Arena" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tO_4QYbcN3I/W2JS1W__hpI/AAAAAAAARGs/ocpwyMJYBuE1OfldLnpbaU6pc5J_4UeggCLcBGAs/s1600/Screenshot_2018-07-29-19-13-11.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="RWBY Amity Arena Loading Screen" border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="800" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-tO_4QYbcN3I/W2JS1W__hpI/AAAAAAAARGs/ocpwyMJYBuE1OfldLnpbaU6pc5J_4UeggCLcBGAs/s400/Screenshot_2018-07-29-19-13-11.png" title="RWBY Amity Arena Loading Screen" width="200" /></a><br />
Hello everyone and welcome back to another post! Recently, I've been into all things RWBY and this led me to the upcoming RWBY game, <a href="https://rwbyaa.hangame.com/" target="_blank">Amity Arena</a>. I was lucky enough to be a participant in the official Closed Beta Test, and I'd like to take some time to share my experience with everyone else!<br />
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With a name like Amity Arena, many predicted this new mobile game to be a fast-paced fighting game. This guess wasn't too far off, as the app is packing the combat. However, the differences are clear with the end result being a card-based tactical game.<br />
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On the surface this may sound unappealing; being a clone of the usual mobile games. While the game does take certain elements from other games (such as mobage character enhancing and a stamina based system) the game pushes forward with a few new integrations.<br />
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Upon starting the game, players are directly thrown into a tutorial. This tutorial is definitely well-placed and not overbearing, as the game can be confusing without proper explanation. We play a practice match, learn the controls, learn the rules, and are given a few iconic RWBY characters to begin.<br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4sLiOFN3SjE/W2JUa1ZoGZI/AAAAAAAARG8/DE4hhTifKc0gA3PxEVrJmUnl0bxMATu3gCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/Screenshot_2018-07-27-20-26-03.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="RWBY Amity Arena Game Play" border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4sLiOFN3SjE/W2JUa1ZoGZI/AAAAAAAARG8/DE4hhTifKc0gA3PxEVrJmUnl0bxMATu3gCK4BGAYYCw/s400/Screenshot_2018-07-27-20-26-03.png" title="RWBY Amity Arena Game Play" width="200" /></a></div>
In order to understand RWBY: Amity Arena, the game play elements must be explained. As a simple description, <b>game play consists of:</b><br />
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<b>A small arena that changes based on the player's ranking. These changes mostly seem to be aesthetic and feature settings from RWBY such as Beacon Academy.</b><br />
<b><br /></b><b>Each player has one tower and two turrets that attack nearby enemies and take damage when attacked. The goal of the game is to destroy your opponent's tower. The main central tower is the most important, and destroying this one is an automatic win. Otherwise, the player who destroys the most structures wins.</b><br />
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<b>In order to attack towers, players are given characters in the form of cards. These characters have different abilities and rankings which relates to how much aura (bottom blue bar) is used. Aura regenerates during the match at a set rate. </b><br />
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<b>Characters who are placed on the map attack whats closest to them, or proceed to the nearest enemy tower. Character's attributes vary; there are ranged and physical attackers, as well as characters with special effects based on their rarity.</b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wJRjN5rpPTc/W2JX2KS2liI/AAAAAAAARHI/GuH7wccA2UA68H1i_tu_EXLtM01nmhGIQCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/Screenshot_2018-07-29-19-20-24.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img alt="RWBY LEVEL UP PENNY" border="0" height="400" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-wJRjN5rpPTc/W2JX2KS2liI/AAAAAAAARHI/GuH7wccA2UA68H1i_tu_EXLtM01nmhGIQCK4BGAYYCw/s400/Screenshot_2018-07-29-19-20-24.png" title="RWBY LEVEL UP PENNY" width="200" /></a>Thus, these are the basic game play mechanics of Amity Arena. Playing the game is more complex, but the overall concept is simple. If you are familiar with games such as <b><a href="https://na.leagueoflegends.com/" target="_blank">League of Legends</a></b>, this RWBY game isn't too far off.<br />
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<b>Lastly, a very important game play element is the upgrade and currency system.</b> The characters of the game are displayed as cards, with various attributes. Like many mobile games, in order to make these warriors stronger, players need to collect more of them. Afterwards, they can be upgraded using Lien which is gained from quests and battles.<br />
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This sounds easy enough, but Lien was somewhat difficult to come by in large amounts. This is a big issue, since stronger characters require more money to upgrade.<br />
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The game of course allows purchase of currency with real-world money, which would solve this problem. Getting stronger and more powerful characters revolves completely around upgrading them. The design of this system is somewhat problematic and leads to pay2win game play as you can spend money to boost your character near-infinitely. More info on this will be discussed below.<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Extra Facts About the Game</h3>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bl921ylN-ys/W2JjDdcbhJI/AAAAAAAARHg/AtzJ83iVrcorz3f_uPYPSGiYrz_c_ehzwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/RWBYAmityModels.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="RWBY Amity Arena Models" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Bl921ylN-ys/W2JjDdcbhJI/AAAAAAAARHg/AtzJ83iVrcorz3f_uPYPSGiYrz_c_ehzwCK4BGAYYCw/s640/RWBYAmityModels.png" title="RWBY Amity Arena Models" width="640" /></a></div>
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<b>The main RWBY characters have different versions/outfits. (Team RWBY has their new outfits while having versions of the original seasons.) The ability to use different characters is unlocked based on arena ranking. For instance, Arena 2 gives access to characters such as Penny that are unobtainable in Arena 1. Once the character is obtained they can be used regardless of rank.</b></div>
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<b>Characters are gained through treasure chest drops which you receive after every battle. You can open these with keys. You are given 5 free keys a day. Other chests can be purchased using crystals, an alternative currency.</b></div>
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<b>Leveling up increases your strength of towers and HP. So far this does not contribute to anything else.</b></div>
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<b>So far there is no single player mode; the entire game is PVP. The opponents you are matched with are determined by your PVP ranking, which splits players into separate arenas. </b></div>
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
Last Minute Thoughts</h3>
<div>
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cmMGKvdB1aY/W2JkpeXB17I/AAAAAAAARHs/ldowpCZRd5AdqKb4FZFwYvfQOV9GLATUgCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/RWBYAmityFeatures.png" imageanchor="1"><img alt="RWBY Amity Arena Features" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-cmMGKvdB1aY/W2JkpeXB17I/AAAAAAAARHs/ldowpCZRd5AdqKb4FZFwYvfQOV9GLATUgCK4BGAYYCw/s640/RWBYAmityFeatures.png" title="RWBY Amity Arena Features" width="640" /></a></div>
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First of all, I'd like to say that I definitely enjoyed Amity Arena. As mentioned, I love RWBY and it's wonderful cast of characters. Regardless, as this game is still in the development, it isn't without it's issues. </div>
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<div>
<b>One major problem that sticks out like a sour thumb, is the Pay2Win nature.</b> While skill plays a part in game play, it can only get you so far. Upgrading characters is a major part of the game and is necessary to win. Pay2Win comes into play here, as upgrading is done by spending in-game currency which isn't attainable in huge amounts without outside resources. Therefore, players who aren't spenders will always be at a disadvantage compared to those who spend, which is a dire issue.</div>
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<b>There also wasn't a moment where my battery wasn't being drained. </b>Battery consumption was killer while using the application, which I hope is fixed. An option to lessen graphic settings would help in this regard.</div>
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<b>Starting out is somewhat difficult.</b> For each win you gain points, but you also lose points when things don't go your way. A string of losses can knock you back down to lower rankings, making it hard to get anywhere especially in the beginning. It's not always an even playing field as well, with matchmaking pairing you against higher ranked players with characters you don't have access to. This is another thing that needs to be worked on.</div>
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<b>It's not all bad though! </b>There are many pros, like the beautiful artwork, the wonderful music, the addicting and intriguing tactical game play and more. I also liked that most of the character retained their voices or had lines referencing the main series. This definitely adds <i>character</i> to the game.</div>
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With all that said, are you guys looking forward to the game? Is it a hit or a miss? Were you expecting something different? Let me know in the comments below!</div>
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Thanks for reading!</div>
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Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-29943992241281188462018-07-30T23:02:00.001-04:002018-07-30T23:02:49.114-04:00MyAnimeList Alternatives<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OePePokralE/W1_O63awKJI/AAAAAAAARF8/6GljWcFDoOslNsKPEhMU2M13Pbp886qOgCLcBGAs/s1600/MYANIMELIST.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Alternatives to MyAnimeList" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="800" height="512" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-OePePokralE/W1_O63awKJI/AAAAAAAARF8/6GljWcFDoOslNsKPEhMU2M13Pbp886qOgCLcBGAs/s640/MYANIMELIST.png" title="Alternatives to MyAnimeList" width="640" /></a></div>
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With the recent issues with anime listing and database website <a href="https://myanimelist.net/" target="_blank">MyAnimeList</a> (MAL), people have started scrambling for alternatives. The site was completely down for some time, eventually returning with numerous features being disabled. This problem was due to the website's API, however this was not communicated publicly at first. More info on the MyAnimeList situation can be explained below, with outside sources for relevancy.<br />
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<b>Otherwise, I'd like to recommend a few alternatives for those who wish to switch services, as well as the pros and cons of each. If you're here just for the recommendations feel free to skip the section below!</b><br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
For More Information on the MyAnimeList Situation</h3>
<a href="https://github.com/erengy/taiga/issues/601" target="_blank">This is a statement and comment thread from the developer of Taiga</a>, which is an application used to track anime videos on your computer and auto add them to listing websites. This is used mostly to manage things like MyAnimeList without the need for manual updates. This now works mostly with Kitsu and AniList, which are the alternatives that will be discussed today!<br />
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<a href="https://animeuknews.net/2018/05/myanimelist-requiring-password-resets/" target="_blank">Article detailing the beginning of the MAL takedown</a>, also showcases a few statements from the admins.<br />
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<a href="https://myanimelist.net/announcement/201806" target="_blank">List of MAL Updates after it's downtime</a><br />
Showcases which features have been restored and what still needs work.<br />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Alternative Websites/Resources</h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://kitsu.io/explore/anime" target="_blank">Kitsu</a></h2>
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<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KUz-GWQoz7k/W1_PgEd3pWI/AAAAAAAARGE/9EuRSPqCL-Io8kpou_5GrXUKuconU576ACLcBGAs/s1600/149595_after%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="470" data-original-width="768" height="390" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KUz-GWQoz7k/W1_PgEd3pWI/AAAAAAAARGE/9EuRSPqCL-Io8kpou_5GrXUKuconU576ACLcBGAs/s640/149595_after%2B%25281%2529.jpeg" width="640" /></a></div>
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Kitsu is an anime listing and database application similar to MyAnimeList. It differs in general layout, customization features, and rating system. As of now, it is compatible with anime tracking application Taiga.</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Pros</b></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">More profile room and customization, allowing for more favorite characters & anime/manga.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Cleaner and sleeker interface, mixes the structure of MyAnimeList with a responsive design.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Uses reactions instead of reviews, which appear randomly on anime info pages; a concise way to give user feedback on an anime series.</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Sorts series by genre, allowing for easy and specific searching.</li>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;"><a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.everfox.animetrackerandroid&hl=en_US" target="_blank">Has a mobile app for on the go use.</a></li>
</ul>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Cons</b></div>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Design can be somewhat cluttered when it comes to certain features</li>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Not the best website when it comes to looking for specific information.</li>
</ul>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Customization must be in the realm of the website; differs from MAL's BBcode abilities.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Community is smaller than MAL's and interaction is based on groups and following, less friend to friend basis.</li>
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<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Certain functions of the website seem to be broken (at least on my end) such as character links not redirecting to a character's profile.<br /></li>
</ul>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://anilist.co/" target="_blank">AniList</a></h2>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KCTVSOoHAO4/W1_Qw1NMAYI/AAAAAAAARGQ/qlc_vJ2J-mIcSX7FSTCq365mjKVjLsWQQCLcBGAs/s1600/Anilist.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="671" data-original-width="1365" height="310" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-KCTVSOoHAO4/W1_Qw1NMAYI/AAAAAAAARGQ/qlc_vJ2J-mIcSX7FSTCq365mjKVjLsWQQCLcBGAs/s640/Anilist.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<h3>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400; text-align: start;">
Like Kitsu, AniList is another anime database and listing website. It is a step up from MyAnimeList is turns of its user interface, featuring a modern and responsive design. Although data-basing anime is important, AniList places an emphasis on it's social features, with users social feeds and forum posts being pushed to the forefront upon entering the website.</div>
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<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;">
<b>Pros</b></div>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400; text-align: start;">
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Small community, but more tight-knit. (Can go as a pro or a con)</li>
</ul>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">High social aspects, comments and discussions are sorted in a feed-like format for easy reading.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Various rating systems such as emoticons, number ratings, stars, and more.</li>
</ul>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Analyzes watched anime in terms of time spent watching, top genres, and more.</li>
</ul>
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<li style="text-align: justify;">Various search options when looking for anime or manga. (Ex: By genre, season, and more.)</li>
</ul>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
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</div>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400;">
<b>Cons</b></div>
<div style="font-size: medium; font-weight: 400; text-align: start;">
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Forum layout could be better designed, currently cluttered with little differentiation.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">No feature specifically for recommending anime that a user might be interested in, just popular anime. </li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Again, customization must be in the realm of the website; differs from MAL's BBcode abilities.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li style="text-align: justify;">Character pages and other pages need to be updates with sufficient information. (This is usually done by community volunteers.)</li>
</ul>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
Lastly, there is one more alternative that I would suggest, but due to my lack of experience with the database I cannot recommend it. This website is <a href="https://anidb.net/perl-bin/animedb.pl?show=main" target="_blank">AniDB</a>. </div>
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Please let me know if this post helped you, and if you have any comments or concerns let me know!</div>
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Thank you for reading!</div>
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Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-46375301141248640952018-07-29T11:00:00.000-04:002018-07-29T11:00:08.247-04:00Back to the Fairy Tale, Back to the Show (And Back to Blogging)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uqMbtZcr2UI/W119UCRMJZI/AAAAAAAARFk/AaCAYg4uS3olUDwh-pj-JSM1_eTZv1xXgCLcBGAs/s1600/BacktoBlogging.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shooting Star Dreamer Blogging" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="800" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-uqMbtZcr2UI/W119UCRMJZI/AAAAAAAARFk/AaCAYg4uS3olUDwh-pj-JSM1_eTZv1xXgCLcBGAs/s1600/BacktoBlogging.png" title="Shooting Star Dreamer Blogging" /></a></div>
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Hello everyone, and welcome back to another post! This post announces my return to blogging, while taking a little inspiration from the opening lyrics of my new favorite series: RWBY! The song is labeled as <i>The Triumph</i>, which is a fitting name for such an upbeat song. You can listen to the song below at the linked video. (Don't worry the video has no spoilers, but you might want to avoid the comments if you're worried about that.)<br />
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RWBY (expect more posts on RWBY soon), and the opening song <i>The Triumph</i> are inspiring to me. The song starts off from a defeated point of view, explaining the current situation and how things feel somewhat hopeless. Afterwards, the piece builds into a triumphant roar, stating that despite the past and regardless of all obstacles, there will be a way to overcome it all. This escalates from a possibility for change or aimless living,<b> to blatantly declaring the will to survive and persevere.</b> The overall theme deals with having the courage to keep moving forward no matter what, and to stop dwelling on the past as it can't really be altered.<br />
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Upon hearing the song this instantly resonated with me. As many may know, Shooting Star Dreamer has been quite inactive. Days turned to months, which led to a year or two, and things began to look bleak. Running a blog or any sort of product that's your sole creation is difficult. It's not the same as following a pre-planned schedule, and there's no one hounding you to keep going; the motivation comes from within.<br />
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Despite all the bumps in the road, I want to believe that things are fixable. Therefore, I am determined to breathe life into this blog once again, and hopefully inspire and bring joy to readers who like delving deeper into our pop culture. It may be difficult, but after a large amount of time pondering, I have decided that this is what feels right to me. <b>It is my time to put in the effort to create my own Triumph.</b><br />
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With that monologue out of the way, I'd like to welcome everyone back to Shooting Star Dreamer! We've gone through a slight makeover, and things may not be the same as before, but the essence will remain the same: we dare to be different and enjoy anime, gaming, and Japanese culture! So I ask for those who fall into those interests to keep reading my blog as I get back to the show. I look forward to your continued support!<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2f2L0lbi8E/W12F2gcuEOI/AAAAAAAARFw/sThhWxFgx1w8ttqwEwRJQaPiB57gBweQgCLcBGAs/s1600/BlogSchedule.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shooting Star Dreamer Schedule" border="0" data-original-height="640" data-original-width="800" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-w2f2L0lbi8E/W12F2gcuEOI/AAAAAAAARFw/sThhWxFgx1w8ttqwEwRJQaPiB57gBweQgCLcBGAs/s400/BlogSchedule.png" title="Shooting Star Dreamer Schedule" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lastly, here is the new blogging schedule I've come up with. Please expect posts on these three days from now on!<br />
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As always, if you have any feedback leave it in the comments below! This post is a bit raw, so please let me know how you feel about this style in comparison to more structured articles.<br />
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Thank you for reading!Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-37818080956598889722018-07-14T00:42:00.002-04:002018-07-14T00:42:47.544-04:00Life Lessons from Super Mario<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ytOznHjasf0/W0l_JqrTnhI/AAAAAAAARC0/I0hoc66nisotzfz0QsMAYFtxdN4JwYv6wCLcBGAs/s1600/Lifelessons.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Super Mario Life Lessons" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ytOznHjasf0/W0l_JqrTnhI/AAAAAAAARC0/I0hoc66nisotzfz0QsMAYFtxdN4JwYv6wCLcBGAs/s1600/Lifelessons.png" title="Super Mario Life Lessons" /></a></div>
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Gaming comes across to some as mindless button mashing, but there's a deeper meaning to it all. Whether it's building values, connecting with characters, or learning real life concepts, there's much more going on under the surface when it comes to video games.<br />
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The Super Mario Bros. Series (or any Mario game) is a game that this applies to. It's outreach spreads so far that most people who have picked up a controller have given it a try. The game outright is a pretty simple platformer, with various elements to make things more interesting. To the average gamer, collecting coins and stomping enemies is what Mario is about, but perhaps we're learning life lessons subconsciously as well.<br />
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Below I'm going to list a few lessons from Mario that I picked up. Let me know in the comments if you've recognized any others or have a different take on things!<br />
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Money is beneficial, but it will only get you so far!</h2>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NiTFgyuOO7M/W0l54EJNB_I/AAAAAAAARCE/4fX_WHDLh1gxUoMCgQUytI0faPI7W15uwCLcBGAs/s1600/giphy.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mario Gif" border="0" data-original-height="452" data-original-width="500" height="289" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-NiTFgyuOO7M/W0l54EJNB_I/AAAAAAAARCE/4fX_WHDLh1gxUoMCgQUytI0faPI7W15uwCLcBGAs/s320/giphy.gif" title="Mario Gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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Coin collection is huge in Mario games. With coins being scattered throughout the levels most players collect as many as possible. However, coins aren't always worth going out of your way for. Although they're great for your score and can net you a few extra lives, they won't win you the game. They make things easier for sure, but your own skills have to get you through the levels if you wish to complete the game.</div>
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<b>This teaches us that money helps contribute to our lives and makes things easier, but we still have to put effort forth to succeed!</b></div>
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Sometimes you need to take a leap of faith!</h2>
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<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-toFYumROjr4/W0l6LF2ESRI/AAAAAAAARCM/jQ7ZCZarqd8PlSTeywdae-tisig3QlqwgCLcBGAs/s1600/giphy-3.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mario Gif" border="0" data-original-height="270" data-original-width="480" height="180" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-toFYumROjr4/W0l6LF2ESRI/AAAAAAAARCM/jQ7ZCZarqd8PlSTeywdae-tisig3QlqwgCLcBGAs/s320/giphy-3.gif" title="Mario Gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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In Mario, our path can sometimes be unclear. In other areas, there are large gaps that need to be crossed and goals that can only be reached by doing something out of the ordinary. Thus sometimes we need to take a chance and make that jump, use that new skill, or explore a new area to live and thrive. This is almost the case in every Mario game.</div>
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<b>By putting forth effort into something new or taking the chance to start again we may find the strength to reach to new heights that previously appeared impossible.</b></div>
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Life gives you multiple chances, so don't give up!</h2>
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<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FOAylTRM5lA/W0l6hQW7lqI/AAAAAAAARCU/CzbSF_nRqYwPOWOrx7ALt_Vr3a2b5ZNYwCLcBGAs/s1600/92c.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mario Gif 1 UP" border="0" data-original-height="253" data-original-width="500" height="161" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FOAylTRM5lA/W0l6hQW7lqI/AAAAAAAARCU/CzbSF_nRqYwPOWOrx7ALt_Vr3a2b5ZNYwCLcBGAs/s320/92c.gif" title="Mario Gif 1 UP" width="320" /></a></div>
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In the Mario world, the quote, "You only live once," isn't necessarily true. Players start the game with multiple lives and even a few continues if those run out. Even if you mess up, struggle and fail, your life or time playing the game isn't completely over. </div>
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<b>As long as you keep moving forward, progress can be made. The game even rewards you with extra lives for trying, similar to the saying "One door closes, another door opens."</b></div>
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There's perks to being big or small, love yourself.</h2>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cb3HliqSV_A/W0l6xsYWI2I/AAAAAAAARCc/da6e71NBNUsyrDEnh-1MCFUWSc84Zy2eQCLcBGAs/s1600/tenor.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mario Gif" border="0" data-original-height="391" data-original-width="498" height="250" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Cb3HliqSV_A/W0l6xsYWI2I/AAAAAAAARCc/da6e71NBNUsyrDEnh-1MCFUWSc84Zy2eQCLcBGAs/s320/tenor.gif" title="Mario Gif" width="320" /></a></div>
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In Super Mario Bros., you play as a petite version of Mario upon starting the game. Getting mushrooms nets Mario and power-up and a size upgrade. Although many don't want to play as small Mario in comparison to big, the game can be played with either. Each size has situations where being small or large may be beneficial and detrimental (such as being small to walk through small areas or being big to break certain blocks). </div>
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Therefore, as in real life, it's best to recognize that tall or short, lacking or not, everyone has their strengths and weaknesses.</div>
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A little extra help doesn't hurt!</h2>
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<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HvzB4NgWOlU/W0l7Zt4gAmI/AAAAAAAARCk/QCeBgtrBJO4AO6yIKDSGcslUistEK7RZQCLcBGAs/s1600/FrequentHalfBarasinga.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Mario Switch GIF Cappy" border="0" data-original-height="304" data-original-width="541" height="223" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HvzB4NgWOlU/W0l7Zt4gAmI/AAAAAAAARCk/QCeBgtrBJO4AO6yIKDSGcslUistEK7RZQCLcBGAs/s400/FrequentHalfBarasinga.gif" title="Mario Switch GIF Cappy" width="400" /></a></div>
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Lastly, having a little outside help doesn't hurt. Mario doesn't progress through his games alone. He has Yoshi and Luigi from time to time, and uses various power-ups along the way. Although you can go at the game alone, there are some stages that require assistance and the newest Mario game requires his partner Cappy throughout it all!</div>
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<b>Thus, getting help from others isn't too bad, and can make progress easier.</b></div>
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<b>As always, thank you for reading! Please check out my other posts or leave a comment if you have the chance!</b></div>
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Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-6260047153934727852017-12-31T23:55:00.003-05:002017-12-31T23:57:15.305-05:00Happy Anime New Year! (Top Anime I Watched This Year)<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4j0iRFaY6_4/Wkm_ppGma-I/AAAAAAAAQ78/zs6oYDr_vVwMBMtQQpFvElqAywhAn7QogCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/2000_a8611a8aa5be3eba56a7b89c5670ba85.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-4j0iRFaY6_4/Wkm_ppGma-I/AAAAAAAAQ78/zs6oYDr_vVwMBMtQQpFvElqAywhAn7QogCK4BGAYYCw/s640/2000_a8611a8aa5be3eba56a7b89c5670ba85.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />
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Hey everyone! It's the end of the year, which means out with 2017 and in with 2018. Of course, this means a new year filled with new things, which also includes new anime! I usually do a New Year's Resolution-focused post, but I thought I'd switch things up this time around. Instead, I'd like to share a very short post that showcases the anime I watched in 2017; the one's I enjoyed the most.<br />
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<b>As a disclaimer, the following anime weren't necessarily ones that aired this year, but were ones I decided to watch this year. I'm posting them here, because I want to recommend them to you all!</b><br />
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<b><a href="https://myanimelist.net/anime/26243/Owari_no_Seraph" target="_blank">Owari no Seraph & Owari no Seraph: Battle in Nagoya</a></b></h2>
<img alt="Related image" src="http://www.the-arcade.ie/wp-content/uploads/2015/06/Capinha-Owari-no-Seraph.jpg" height="337" width="640" /><br />
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<b>What I liked: </b>Nice action sequences, good characters and development. First season started off with a bang, and the second followed through quite well. Emotional moments were present throughout the entire season.<br />
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<b>What could be better: </b>Plot-twists came out of nowhere and didn't really make sense, poor use of characters outside of the main cast, convoluted story.<br />
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<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a href="https://myanimelist.net/anime/23289/Gekkan_Shoujo_Nozaki-kun" target="_blank">Gekkan Shoujo Nozaki-kun</a></u></span></h2>
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<img alt="Image result" height="381" src="https://pm1.narvii.com/6486/290f977fde2b60f1adacf537784b637393c543d9_hq.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<b>What I liked: </b>Great characters, and a lot of funny moments. The premise of story being around manga creation was also a nice touch!<br />
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<b>What could be better: </b>More content would be wonderful as the story still didn't feel complete towards the end.<br />
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<span style="color: #0000ee;"><u><a href="https://myanimelist.net/anime/31404/Netoge_no_Yome_wa_Onnanoko_ja_Nai_to_Omotta" target="_blank">Netoge no Yome wa Onnanoko ja Nai to Omotta?</a></u></span></h2>
<img alt="Image result for netoge no yome" height="575" src="https://pm1.narvii.com/6085/3ac003c756039a1fbade36f95a1bd25cdf213d9a_hq.jpg" width="640" /><br />
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<b>What I liked: </b>Interesting characters like the rest, relatable story and content. I liked the fact that it delved into MMO gaming and viewed the gamers in a positive light. A harem-anime done pretty well.<br />
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<b>What could be better: </b>Again, more content would benefit this anime.<br />
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Last but not least, the New Year's Resolution! My resolution for 2018 is to focus on myself. I think improving myself and understanding my likes, dislikes, and strengths will help me become a better individual in 2018.<br />
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This is where 2017 has led me, and I feel like if I continue down this path I can be 100% the person I am right now! I also hope this will allow me to be of more help to others as well!<br />
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As always, thank you for reading and...Happy New Year!Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-77185829635487259422017-07-25T23:59:00.003-04:002017-07-26T00:03:38.393-04:00Your Personality with a Little Anime<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l3Kjfjip2V0/WXgPKZRC5JI/AAAAAAAAP_Q/1OFFber9UD4bXdHbPLHZSmOEYJ37cuHnQCLcBGAs/s1600/RikkaTitle.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Anime Myers Briggs" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-l3Kjfjip2V0/WXgPKZRC5JI/AAAAAAAAP_Q/1OFFber9UD4bXdHbPLHZSmOEYJ37cuHnQCLcBGAs/s640/RikkaTitle.png" title="Anime Myers Briggs" width="640" /></a></div>
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In many ways we are connected to anime; through our thoughts and our feelings. Since anime is a creation of the mind, it is natural for us to share traits with the characters. We may have common birthdays, similar zodiac signs, and ideals. Perhaps we even share personalities.<br />
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Recently, I've been doing a lot of reading on Psychology and personality types. The most fascinating aspect to me is the <a href="http://www.myersbriggs.org/home.htm?bhcp=1" target="_blank">Myers-Briggs Type Indicator</a>; a type of test to examine the way you think. It's primary goal is to assist in development and create psychological understanding.<br />
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<i><a href="https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test" target="_blank">Quick Link to Take the Test</a></i></div>
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At first, this test might be off-putting. Being summed up by a couple of letters may feel weird, and some may find it hard to believe. <b>The key aspect of Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI) is not to categorize and box people-in, but to reveal how the mind works and most importantly how you think.</b><br />
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This is done by the use of a four letter system. Each letter is ranked similarly to an RPG character creator, with scales of mental and emotional characteristics. The first consists of E and I which are extroversion and introversion. The second letter combo is S and N, standing for sensing and intuition. Following are T and F; thinking and feeling. The type finishes with P and J, Perceiving and Judging.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a-DHcWGfgow/WXgQotHm8rI/AAAAAAAAP_c/46sZSrozA2QvimVKLDziPfS6zNycyEDMgCLcBGAs/s1600/MBTI-Letters.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Myers Briggs Types" border="0" data-original-height="1050" data-original-width="1411" height="476" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-a-DHcWGfgow/WXgQotHm8rI/AAAAAAAAP_c/46sZSrozA2QvimVKLDziPfS6zNycyEDMgCLcBGAs/s640/MBTI-Letters.png" title="Myers Briggs Types" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.yunling.me/archives/676/" target="_blank">Source for this wonderful chart</a></td></tr>
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After figuring out your preference, you'll end up with set of four letters such as INTJ. This is your personality type. The system is not completely black and white, each aspect is in percentages. You can be a little bit of an extrovert or a huge extrovert; you're definitely not limited to a binary category.<br />
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<b>So how does this tie into anime you may ask?</b> Well, MBTI also extends to characters in media. It may sound strange, since they technically can't take the assessment, but it is definitely possible to type them.<br />
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I'm not going to delve too deeply into this, but the indicator works when observing others and their actions, alongside thinking. We usually know a character reasoning and actions, so it's not too difficult to figure out the rest by following a type's functions. Functions are basically extensions to the typing letters and delve deeper into thought processes and patterns.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GKVjmIwFGsM/WXgRh4s40nI/AAAAAAAAP_g/hs-4aYlOS4EIcGftxHYRG4JbuPZ9-WdzACLcBGAs/s1600/MBTI-Fairy-Tail.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fairy Tail Myers Briggs" border="0" data-original-height="898" data-original-width="600" height="640" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GKVjmIwFGsM/WXgRh4s40nI/AAAAAAAAP_g/hs-4aYlOS4EIcGftxHYRG4JbuPZ9-WdzACLcBGAs/s640/MBTI-Fairy-Tail.jpg" title="Fairy Tail Myers Briggs" width="426" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Charts like these float around for different anime! <a href="https://www.vingle.net/posts/1226583-Fairy-Tail-MBTI-Types" target="_blank">Source Here</a></td></tr>
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After taking the test, I ended up the type ENFP. What really convinced me of the test was looking at the characters who share my type. I found characters such as Naruto Uzumaki, Honoka Kousaka from <i>Love Live</i>, Jaden Yuki from <i>Yugioh GX</i>, and even Aang from <i>Avatar: The Last Airbender</i>. They were all commonly (since there is a chance for error) typed the same as me and were characters I am inspired by or relate to greatly.<br />
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At that point is when I realized that there was a bit of truth to the whole MBTI thing, and of course it became more apparent when I applied these realizations to my own actions. I began to use the test to look at my way of thinking from an outside perspective, and focus on improvements.<br />
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When it comes to anime, MBTI is another way to discuss characters and it's just plain fun looking up types and their habits. You can also meet others with the same type or similar who enjoy things that you do! I think by taking the indicator seriously, but not too seriously, you can definitely benefit from it's results.<br />
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As a parting gift, I'd like to leave you all a few links to take the test, and to look up character MBTI types. I hope you enjoy them, and if you have anything questions let me know in the comments!<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<u>Links for MBTI</u></h3>
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<a href="http://www.myersbriggs.org/home.htm?bhcp=1" target="_blank">Myers-Briggs Website</a></div>
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<a href="https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test" target="_blank">Free Personality Test</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.mbtidatabase.com/" target="_blank">MBTI Database</a></div>
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As always, thank you for reading!<br />
<br />Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-15342153542801944692017-07-22T20:24:00.000-04:002017-07-22T21:03:13.221-04:00Happy Birthday Nico Yazawa! (Nico Nico Nii)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zumYujtBGTk/WXPYo6xNYcI/AAAAAAAAP-w/wSDp-dhZvgkgD69MtoNI8WISouTUUHD5ACLcBGAs/s1600/NicoTitle.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Nico Yazawa Birthday" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-zumYujtBGTk/WXPYo6xNYcI/AAAAAAAAP-w/wSDp-dhZvgkgD69MtoNI8WISouTUUHD5ACLcBGAs/s640/NicoTitle.jpg" title="Nico Yazawa Birthday" width="640" /></a></div>
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Today is July 22nd and marks the birthday of Nico Yazawa, a high school idol from the popular anime<i> Love Live: School Idol Project</i>! This post is a quick spotlight on Nico, a character who is not only adored by anime fans, but known around the internet.<br />
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As a quick overview, Nico is a pretty eccentric character. She is a third-year student in high school which is equivalent to senior level in the United States. This puts her age around 17-18, which means she's one of the older characters in the series. Despite this she still has a young appearance and is short in comparison to everyone else.<br />
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Being born on July 22nd makes her the zodiac sign Cancer, which is a water element. Characteristics of this sign are emotional capabilities and sensitivity. They also care deeply about the things important to them. This can be reflected in Nico's expressiveness and her devotion to her career.<br />
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<iframe width="320" height="266" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/3oD8tj3eBls/0.jpg" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/3oD8tj3eBls?feature=player_embedded" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe></div>
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Outside of the anime, Nico is also an internet sensation. Her trademark saying, "Nico Nico Nii" became a hit with fans and has gotten her recognition with the web community. The video above showcases a popular remix using her saying.<br />
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With that, I'd like to wish Nico a Happy Birthday! If there's another character you would like to see on Shooting Star Dreamer, please let me know!<br />
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Thank you for reading~Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-22074638996545440342017-07-19T09:30:00.000-04:002017-07-19T09:30:08.691-04:00Splatoon 2's Marina: Examining Her Popularity<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qbl6bl3Og8Y/WW7sN6zn0qI/AAAAAAAAP9Q/xFOI7YhVszU-PK0KcriagNyBMBmlQoMEgCLcBGAs/s1600/Splatoon2Marina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Splatoon Marina Titlecard" border="0" data-original-height="600" data-original-width="800" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Qbl6bl3Og8Y/WW7sN6zn0qI/AAAAAAAAP9Q/xFOI7YhVszU-PK0KcriagNyBMBmlQoMEgCLcBGAs/s1600/Splatoon2Marina.jpg" title="Splatoon Marina Titlecard" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://balitix.tumblr.com/post/162903160156/marina-from-splatoon-2-like-everyone-else-i-a" target="_blank">Credit to the artist: Balitix</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<div style="text-align: justify;">
With the immense popularity of <i>Splatoon </i>behind us, the sequel is off to a similar start. Although the game hasn't officially released, players have gotten a taste of what's in store through various previews. What's most interesting to me though, are the fan's responses to the new musical characters: Pearl and Marina. Although both characters are loved, I'd like to focus on Marina; specifically because she's drawn the most attention out of the two.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<br />
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Marina At a Glance</h2>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L0vdz0Vo6rQ/WW7zx7nOgGI/AAAAAAAAP9Y/jI1gcVJzsekOS2IOu04230XUt75fAvTpQCLcBGAs/s1600/Marina_Animated.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Splatoon Marina GIF" border="0" data-original-height="404" data-original-width="720" height="358" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-L0vdz0Vo6rQ/WW7zx7nOgGI/AAAAAAAAP9Y/jI1gcVJzsekOS2IOu04230XUt75fAvTpQCLcBGAs/s640/Marina_Animated.gif" title="Splatoon Marina GIF" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
In the game of <i>Splatoon</i>, Marina is a creature known as an Octoling. She differs greatly from the usual squid-kid characters called Inklings. She has octopus tentacles for hair and slightly different facial features. The reason why her inclusion is so shocking to players is because the Inklings and Octolings were pretty much enemies in the previous game. It's odd for her to appear and be welcomed into their civilization.</div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Marina is also described as being a "reserved" character. She appears to have trouble interacting with others (outside of her partner Pearl) and is depicted with nervous looks at all times. In her duet's with Pearl she sings mostly the background vocals while Pearl covers the main parts, representing aspects of their personality. </div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
<br /></h2>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
What Contributes to Popularity</h2>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;">
New Experiences</span></h3>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6UXkwCKowoE/WW79hb1mXBI/AAAAAAAAP9s/-VtGRW82SvgZKNlsO_8BPul4UanZ79RvQCLcBGAs/s1600/Splatoon-Octoling-And-Inkling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Octoling and Inkling" border="0" data-original-height="974" data-original-width="1024" height="380" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-6UXkwCKowoE/WW79hb1mXBI/AAAAAAAAP9s/-VtGRW82SvgZKNlsO_8BPul4UanZ79RvQCLcBGAs/s400/Splatoon-Octoling-And-Inkling.jpg" title="Octoling and Inkling" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Octoling and Inkling side by side. <a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=53518722" target="_blank">Artist Credit</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
When something becomes popular, there's usually some sort of reasoning behind it. The popular anime of the time usually bring something new to the table like <i><a href="https://myanimelist.net/anime/30276/One_Punch_Man" target="_blank">One Punch Man</a></i>, while others take old tropes and change them up like <i><a href="https://myanimelist.net/anime/9756/Mahou_Shoujo_Madoka%E2%98%85Magica?q=Madoka" target="_blank">Madoka</a>.</i> <b>Regardless of the way it's done, popularity usually connects to freshness. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<b>I believe the newness of Marina is part of the reason why she's a fan-favorite already. </b>Since Nintendo players got a hold of Splatoon, there's been one thing missing from the game: Octolings that are allies instead of enemies. Many begged for these characters to be playable and some preferred them over the Inklings. </div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: justify;">
Although we still don't have playable Octolings, Marina is a step towards this becoming a possibility, which also hints that Nintendo is listening to it's fan base. I definitely believe there are more changes to come in the near future!</div>
<div>
<span style="background-color: #0b5394;"><br /></span></div>
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: #0b5394;">
Connection to the Audience</span></span></h3>
</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UKd17xkIAxY/WW7-SPUtRRI/AAAAAAAAP9w/D3CH2fMvqFQ4RAAhfuW8kNNR2mhkZPR-gCLcBGAs/s1600/Splatoon-Marina.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Marina Splatoon 2" border="0" data-original-height="720" data-original-width="1280" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-UKd17xkIAxY/WW7-SPUtRRI/AAAAAAAAP9w/D3CH2fMvqFQ4RAAhfuW8kNNR2mhkZPR-gCLcBGAs/s640/Splatoon-Marina.jpg" title="Marina Splatoon 2" width="640" /></a></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Introducing something new is usually not enough; people have to find some sort of relatability as well. There are times when characters are designed to be one-dimensional or perfect. They either embody a single trope or become an all-around character that has no flaws. When it comes to character design it's hard to find a compromise. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
With Marina, her personality is definitely something people can relate to. To put it bluntly, Marina appears to suffer from anxiety or social anxiety. This explains the fact that she always appears to be a bit nervous and perhaps ditsy at times; interacting with others definitely gives her trouble. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
This type of issue is actually a common problem for many, and seeing a character who goes through similar struggles is motivating in a way. The fact that Marina continues to perform and follow her dreams while dealing with these issues is definitely inspirational. </div>
<div>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div>
<div>
<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<span style="color: #0b5394;">
Appeal to Diversity</span></h3>
</div>
<div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBxMyfUMC_8/WW77R21VoyI/AAAAAAAAP9k/s9bfgu-l8IABjgUzrAk8Fv0qWsYhSjVMwCK4BGAYYCw/s1600/Splatoon-Octoling.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Octoling Splatoon" border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-oBxMyfUMC_8/WW77R21VoyI/AAAAAAAAP9k/s9bfgu-l8IABjgUzrAk8Fv0qWsYhSjVMwCK4BGAYYCw/s400/Splatoon-Octoling.jpg" title="Octoling Splatoon" width="348" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="font-size: 12.8px;">The original Octoling design from <i>Splatoon.<br /></i></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</div>
<div>
With the previous two points in mind, we have to remember that our world is diverse. Although the communities differ depending on your location, our world is a colorful one. We don't all look the same, and we're not all sharing a single personality as well. </div>
</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Marina breaks the original barriers of <i>Splatoon</i> by being a different race than the usual cast. On top of this, she also has a darker-skin tone which is quite different from other NPCs. The most fascinating thing is that people tend to take a liking to her because she's so different.</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
Therefore, I believe this has a relation to her popularity. It overlaps with her Octopus race origins, but the previous Octolings we've seen have all shared the same skin color. It's nice to embrace our differences as something beautiful.</div>
<div>
<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
***</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
</div>
<div>
So, there you have it! I believe from the get go, Marina was going to burst with popularity due to her character design. She brings so much new to the table and embraces a lot of things we haven't seen as much in Splatoon. I think the developers definitely made a smart decision by including her in Splatoon 2. </div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
What do you all like about Marina? Why do you believe she's popular? Can you relate to her? I'd love to hear your thoughts below, so don't hesitate to comment!</div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div>
<br /></div>
Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-10027459325245648542017-05-24T22:24:00.000-04:002017-05-24T22:24:53.580-04:00Fire Emblem: A Divided Community<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3o4JIjSeqy0/WSYUM8dzK0I/AAAAAAAAPkY/k111DFFkkF02fNwmHfBzkTXlsQxRHQImACLcB/s1600/FireEmblemTitleCard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Fire Emblem Editorial" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-3o4JIjSeqy0/WSYUM8dzK0I/AAAAAAAAPkY/k111DFFkkF02fNwmHfBzkTXlsQxRHQImACLcB/s640/FireEmblemTitleCard.png" title="Fire Emblem Editorial" width="640" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
Out of all the current titles featured on Nintendo devices, Fire Emblem has caught the attention of many at this time. With the release of<i> <a href="https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.nintendo.zaba" target="_blank">Fire Emblem Heroes</a></i> for mobile devices and the launch of <i><a href="http://www.nintendo.com/games/detail/fire-emblem-echoes-shadows-of-valentia-3ds" target="_blank">Fire Emblem Echoes</a></i> for the 3DS, the series is better than ever. However, with the addition of various new mechanics and characters, the games have been well-received or disregarded depending on who you talk to. It all boils down to an old vs new debate with Fire Emblem, which has led to a clear divide in the community.<br />
<br />
When it comes to creating a video game, there are many factors that are required. Gameplay elements, graphics and sound, character development, and similar aspects. Although technical details are important, nothing can beat a clear understanding of the consumer. (This is especially true in a multiplayer environment, as the consumers are a part of the gameplay!) Yet, this can become convoluted when your consumers want different things.<br />
<br />
Since the game series may not be well known to everyone, <b>here's a quick explanation</b>. The Fire Emblem Series are tactical role-playing games with an emphasis on character interactions and compelling stories. These interactions are known as supports, which occur between two characters as they fight together in numerous battles. In the past they were a bit more limited, while newer games allowed players to marry these characters as they willed. Alongside this were player-insert characters which can be customized and married to a character of the player's pleasing. This started with opposite gender relations but extended to same-sex relationships as well.<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VODpfbKH9Uw/WSY5nhBkogI/AAAAAAAAPks/P4yf-jlK2d4ON9w0Nsd9nCAw__H35wTPQCK4B/s1600/maxresdefault.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fire Emblem Marriage Sakura" border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-VODpfbKH9Uw/WSY5nhBkogI/AAAAAAAAPks/P4yf-jlK2d4ON9w0Nsd9nCAw__H35wTPQCK4B/s640/maxresdefault.jpg" title="Fire Emblem Marriage Sakura" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An example marriage/confession scene from Fire Emblem Fates.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />The new marriage system appealed to the waifu culture (<a href="http://www.shootingstardreamer.com/2015/01/what-is-waifu-why-have-waifu.html" target="_blank">discussed here</a>), which led to concerns among certain parts of the community. Alongside this were the new character designs which played to a few popular anime tropes. Although the newer games, <i>Fire Emblem: Awakening</i> and <i>Fire Emblem Fates</i>, received criticism, they ultimately revived the series from its mediocre performance in the West.<br />
<br />
<b>This led to the divide between the newer and older fans of the games</b>. The people who have been with the series from the beginning dislike the appeal to the "otaku culture", while newcomers embrace it and pin the late games in the series to the recent success. It's definitely not all black and white though.<br />
<br />
Thus the result is a tug-of-war between the fans which has torn the community in two. If you take a look at many Fire Emblem forums, or in the comments of YouTube videos you'll see people complaining about the otaku aspects of the game and others ranting about "Fire Emblem Elitists." (Aka the oldies.)<br />
<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEB0PcqYhis/WSZAAgIqtmI/AAAAAAAAPlA/UKFC_MRqSOYKyMXzjlki2XfvNT4Lge1aQCK4B/s1600/fire_emblem_echoes_shadow_of_valentia-03.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Fire Emblem Echoes 3DS" border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-mEB0PcqYhis/WSZAAgIqtmI/AAAAAAAAPlA/UKFC_MRqSOYKyMXzjlki2XfvNT4Lge1aQCK4B/s640/fire_emblem_echoes_shadow_of_valentia-03.jpg" title="Fire Emblem Echoes 3DS" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fire Emblem Echoes remains true to it's original mechanics, while simply being an upgrade/port to 3DS.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<b>In my opinion,</b> I lean a bit more towards the newcomer side of this community. I started playing Fire Emblem games when they were on the GameCube which was about ten years ago. Even though I definitely enjoyed the older games, I was entranced by newer entries as well.<br />
<br />
I feel like Awakening and Fates were good games because they appealed to what consumers wanted, something that I mentioned earlier in this post. I wouldn't say that they were selling themselves out, but keeping up with modern times and trying a new formula. The change was good, maintaining the old Fire Emblem elements with new features to pull in a wider crowd of people.<br />
<br />
I would rather see Fire Emblem continue the pattern of combining new mechanics (such as marriage and children) with the aspects that made the game lovable from the beginning. I also like that <i>Fire Emblem Echoes </i>is an attempt to reintroduce the history to the new generation and is a treat to the original fans. Still, I feel that including the new features would have been an interesting choice as well though.<br />
<br />
At this point it'll be interesting to see how Nintendo and Intelligent Systems will shape the franchise. Will they appeal to one side of the community or try to make ends meet? I'm definitely hoping for the latter since I believe that would be a win-win situation. I feel this could be done by following the trend of remakes while releasing more games with the new mechanics and changes.<br />
<br />
Of course, I also want to hear from my readers. What do you all think? Are you happy with the Fire Emblem community? Do you even play Fire Emblem, and if not what are your thoughts on the games? Do you believe appealing to otaku culture is a good or a bad thing?<br />
<br />
Please comment below and as always:<br />
<br />
Thank you for reading!<br />
<br />
<br />Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-37547047771887685492017-03-16T23:14:00.000-04:002017-03-16T23:14:14.904-04:00The Increasing Popularity of Music in Anime<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cs9izq0FiUw/WMtRmctUvGI/AAAAAAAAPhY/lRfnfXnRYMU8YReYhXiF1Nogd9JzPJjZQCLcB/s1600/BlogTitleCardGuest.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Music in Anime" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-cs9izq0FiUw/WMtRmctUvGI/AAAAAAAAPhY/lRfnfXnRYMU8YReYhXiF1Nogd9JzPJjZQCLcB/s1600/BlogTitleCardGuest.jpg" title="Music in Anime" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://justanimeworld.wordpress.com/" target="_blank">Check out her blog here!</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<i>"Hi! My name is Jessica,
but I go by <span style="font-family: "lucida sans unicode";"><span lang="ja-JP">じぇす
</span></span>on here, which means Jess! This is my first time
posting on Shooting Star Dreamer, so I thought I should give a bit of
an introduction. I've loved anime since I was small, my first anime
being Samurai Pizza Cats when
I was only two years old. Currently I enjoy Japanese media of many
sorts, including anime, manga, video games, light novels, and more! I
hope you'll enjoy my first post!"</i></div>
<div style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Music has been an
existing topic in anime for decades, as can be seen in titles such as
<i>Macross </i>(1982), <i>Full Moon wo Sagashite</i> (2002), and <i>Beck</i> (2004). Back
in the early 2000's, there were only handfuls of music-based anime
available, so fans of that genre didn't have much room to be picky.
In the 1980's and 1990's, there were even less. As time passed, the
later 2000's brought us anime such as <i>Nodame Cantabile</i>, <i>K-On</i>!,
<i>Detroit Metal City</i>, and in the early 2010's we got a bunch more
music-related anime.
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Now, in the year 2017,
eight music-based anime TV series have begun airing already, five
have been announced to air sometime during 2017, and thirteen have
been announced with no release date yet. That's a total of twenty-six
music-based anime, potentially airing in 2017 alone. So what's
causing this huge jump in music anime?</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ENaFMTCvo74/WMtUGSs5CEI/AAAAAAAAPh4/DlquDfHzn_QUXrtYnhRV3s2psTSjcDjfwCK4B/s1600/AkB48%2BIdols.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="AKB48 Idols" border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ENaFMTCvo74/WMtUGSs5CEI/AAAAAAAAPh4/DlquDfHzn_QUXrtYnhRV3s2psTSjcDjfwCK4B/s640/AkB48%2BIdols.jpg" title="AKB48 Idols" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The popular idol group AKB48 which contributes to the rise of music-based anime.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
First off, we have to
realize that anime and Japanese animation studios are growing in
number every year. The first reason why there's so much more music
anime, is because anime itself exists in larger numbers. According to
<a href="http://www.anime-planet.com/anime/seasons/summer-2004">Anime-Planet's
database</a>, the Summer 2004 anime season only had seventeen
different series released on air. The <a href="http://www.anime-planet.com/anime/seasons/fall-2016">Fall
2016 anime season</a> had a total of 84 anime TV series on air.
Because of the huge increase in numbers of TV anime in general, it
makes sense that there should be more music anime, right?</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
That is correct to a
certain degree. However, there still seems to be a trend of
music-based anime coming out at this time in comparison to other
“niche” genres. By “niche”, I'm referring to more specific
categories of anime, such as “lost in a strange world” or
“vampire” instead of more common genres such as “action” or
“horror”.</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
In Japan, pop idols are
very successful right now; especially AKB48 which is situated in
Akihabara. Akiba for short, it's somewhat of a hub for otaku of all
varieties, and so there has come to be an entire culture surrounding
what's known as “idol otaku”. In addition to AKB48's success in
Akiba, screens across the district and other anime-heavy locations in
Japan have been playing many Love Live videos. Love Live is currently
very popular among Japanese otaku.</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6rsPQbDQqlw/WMtSt47wBWI/AAAAAAAAPhs/NaVWo3KfhLYyzr5PJ3Ep8Zhzg7jtxPHiwCK4B/s1600/Classicaloid.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Classicaloid Anime" border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6rsPQbDQqlw/WMtSt47wBWI/AAAAAAAAPhs/NaVWo3KfhLYyzr5PJ3Ep8Zhzg7jtxPHiwCK4B/s640/Classicaloid.jpg" title="Classicaloid Anime" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The music-based anime Classicaloid, which doesn't focus on pop music.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<br />
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
While I do think that
Japanese idol groups such as AKB48 and popular anime about idols such
as Love Live have contributed to the increased number of music anime,
I know many of you are shaking your heads right now, thinking, “Not
all music anime is about pop!” That's true, recent anime such as
<i>Sound! Euphonium</i> and <i>Classicaloid</i> are not about pop. However, if you
look at the different titles of recent music-based anime, you'll
notice that almost all of them are indeed about pop.</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
It makes sense; after
all, you have to start somewhere while learning music, and often
pianists will start with learning classical music. That, and if you
look at the variety of anime we have coming out each season, you can
see that creators are going for more and more niche subjects. The
upcoming Welcome to the Ballroom anime is about ballroom dancing, for
an example. It makes sense that the music genre would want to spread
out to different types of music as well.</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
<br /></div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
</div>
<div align="JUSTIFY" style="margin-bottom: 0cm;">
Overall, I feel that the
increasing popularity of Japanese pop idols is responsible for our
growing collection of music anime, but the anime industry itself is
also to thank for that, having progressed so much, growing each
season, and increasing its own variety.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16182273805714786994noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-35196079346731450542017-03-09T22:45:00.002-05:002017-03-09T22:46:19.066-05:00Happy Miku Day! 3/9 (Artwork Showcase) <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2XsV_PdbM3g/WMIhOdubNtI/AAAAAAAAPg8/7mWNvP2O3EI-JNECbOuytHG2B02ygBrZQCLcB/s1600/MikuDay.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Miku Day Shooting Star Dreamer" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-2XsV_PdbM3g/WMIhOdubNtI/AAAAAAAAPg8/7mWNvP2O3EI-JNECbOuytHG2B02ygBrZQCLcB/s640/MikuDay.png" title="Miku Day Shooting Star Dreamer" width="640" /></a></div>
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Happy Miku Day everyone! March 9th (3/9) holds significance for our favorite virtual idol. 3/9 can be read as Mi (Mitsu) ku in Japanese, which led to the holiday. Hatsune Miku's first solo concert, 39's Giving Day, also took place on this date in 2010. Lastly, as a way to thank Miku, the date can be said as San-Kyu (thank you) in Japanese.<br />
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There's been quite a few festivities going around, such as special sales from otaku merchandise providers and of course artwork from fans. Various companies have given tributes to Miku as well!<br />
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As for Shooting Star Dreamer, we'll showcase a few special artworks for your viewing pleasure, alongside with video footage of her Giving Day concert. We encourage you to check them out and celebrate all things Hatsune Miku! Don't forget to support the artists of course!<br />
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<div style="height: 0; padding-bottom: 56.25%; position: relative;">
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="360" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/4CEcEJxPDsk?ecver=2" style="height: 100%; left: 0; position: absolute; width: 100%;" width="640"></iframe><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PbDM0zoMIWs/WMIaI6qWOjI/AAAAAAAAPgM/rH3-SlmZ9IYGl4svl_PWhpsu_vEZNcNmACLcB/s1600/Miku-Day-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Miku Day 1" border="0" height="400" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PbDM0zoMIWs/WMIaI6qWOjI/AAAAAAAAPgM/rH3-SlmZ9IYGl4svl_PWhpsu_vEZNcNmACLcB/s640/Miku-Day-1.jpg" title="Miku Day 1" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=61815260" target="_blank"><b>Sweet Night by ATDAN-</b></a></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-omkDC_9kXdM/WMIaI-9nbNI/AAAAAAAAPgQ/nQa46q6N0VgxKNrTmd-KV5gLhIv50IghQCLcB/s1600/Miku-Day-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Miku Day 2" border="0" height="592" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-omkDC_9kXdM/WMIaI-9nbNI/AAAAAAAAPgQ/nQa46q6N0VgxKNrTmd-KV5gLhIv50IghQCLcB/s640/Miku-Day-2.jpg" title="Miku Day 2" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=61813698" target="_blank">39 by 黎(クロイ)</a></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gqKigN6Nqs/WMIaJCzRoUI/AAAAAAAAPgU/Lt6oKmnL-ZQm9gQq3oRD4nZPrdpzK6QlACLcB/s1600/Miku-Day-3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Miku Day 3" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3gqKigN6Nqs/WMIaJCzRoUI/AAAAAAAAPgU/Lt6oKmnL-ZQm9gQq3oRD4nZPrdpzK6QlACLcB/s640/Miku-Day-3.png" title="Miku Day 3" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=61818182" target="_blank">歌を届ける by saihate</a></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uMfuRlVNZnQ/WMIaJN6T_YI/AAAAAAAAPgc/Uo12JK1ZMCww8ADCUwEZEib2-33VbRnhACLcB/s1600/Miku-Day-4.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Miku Day 4" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-uMfuRlVNZnQ/WMIaJN6T_YI/AAAAAAAAPgc/Uo12JK1ZMCww8ADCUwEZEib2-33VbRnhACLcB/s640/Miku-Day-4.png" title="Miku Day 4" width="572" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=61813571" target="_blank">3。9 by Say HANa</a></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FgLm00JDN4U/WMIaJM--Q7I/AAAAAAAAPgY/uCY2nB2cvhco-VFYqoNiTGdkc14sCMjDgCLcB/s1600/Miku-Day-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Miku Day 5" border="0" height="384" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FgLm00JDN4U/WMIaJM--Q7I/AAAAAAAAPgY/uCY2nB2cvhco-VFYqoNiTGdkc14sCMjDgCLcB/s640/Miku-Day-5.jpg" title="Miku Day 5" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=61813599" target="_blank">39's MIKU DAY by sishenfan</a></b></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3GnfUsHF5CI/WMIaJT6aKgI/AAAAAAAAPgk/tXOEWwbOTQsx76wzFX4PQ2E1rx8AcrW9gCLcB/s1600/Miku-Day-6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Miku Day 6" border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-3GnfUsHF5CI/WMIaJT6aKgI/AAAAAAAAPgk/tXOEWwbOTQsx76wzFX4PQ2E1rx8AcrW9gCLcB/s640/Miku-Day-6.jpg" title="Miku Day 6" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=61829941" target="_blank">ミクの日 by ピナケス</a></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img alt="Miku Day 7" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-44yzpXRzM00/WMIaJoER44I/AAAAAAAAPgo/JmMN4vVHXkU1FuCSy294CEKDYpvLmiarACLcB/s640/Miku-Day-7.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" title="Miku Day 7" width="620" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=61813646" target="_blank">39の日!by 7 : 24</a></b></td></tr>
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-44yzpXRzM00/WMIaJoER44I/AAAAAAAAPgo/JmMN4vVHXkU1FuCSy294CEKDYpvLmiarACLcB/s1600/Miku-Day-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QflQ7E1MqbQ/WMIaJiSgKMI/AAAAAAAAPgg/ebXY6SUNXSQabn-Hep8xzrB1lHF9aY7ewCLcB/s1600/Miku-Day-8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Miku Day 8" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-QflQ7E1MqbQ/WMIaJiSgKMI/AAAAAAAAPgg/ebXY6SUNXSQabn-Hep8xzrB1lHF9aY7ewCLcB/s640/Miku-Day-8.jpg" title="Miku Day 8" width="452" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="https://www.blogger.com/"><span id="goog_164173398"></span>ミクの日 by _FEI</a></b></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CKb7M7i0cqk/WMIaJ5Eu4fI/AAAAAAAAPgs/TrMC-UrodG0KXJhdFPPKzQ9eapOThNYVQCLcB/s1600/Miku-Day-9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Miku Day 9" border="0" height="468" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-CKb7M7i0cqk/WMIaJ5Eu4fI/AAAAAAAAPgs/TrMC-UrodG0KXJhdFPPKzQ9eapOThNYVQCLcB/s640/Miku-Day-9.jpg" title="Miku Day 9" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=61831019" target="_blank">39 by ajimita</a></b></td></tr>
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<br />Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-66365427988189638272017-01-26T23:59:00.000-05:002017-01-26T23:59:15.461-05:00Anime Fans Need to be Aware of the World<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-76Jf6vf6KiE/WIrOA0DCf9I/AAAAAAAAPcQ/CoHBKJDmDho_zIpiQpePkC-0TFcmA50igCLcB/s1600/BlogTitleCard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Otaku World View" border="0" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-76Jf6vf6KiE/WIrOA0DCf9I/AAAAAAAAPcQ/CoHBKJDmDho_zIpiQpePkC-0TFcmA50igCLcB/s1600/BlogTitleCard.png" title="Otaku World View" /></a></div>
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As otaku or anime-viewers, we tend to indulge in the worlds of others. It's a pretty common thing when it comes to anime; the series are full of complex plots, and the characters are relatable to boot. Of course we take this love to the outside by purchasing various merchandise and showcasing our interests through apparel. I know many people like me who love letting people know they love anime!<br />
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However, times are changing in the world. People are being put into important positions, which leads to massive changes of the world structure. Our earth is forever changing which of course has an effect on the things we partake in, such as anime.<br />
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In America, we've just witnessed the election of a new president. Before now, America has been the leader of the world. Many countries turn to us for guidance and assistance. Therefore what happens in America has an effect on the world. This includes our interactions with other countries, such as Japan.<br />
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With this in mind, we otaku need to be careful with the people who control our country. We've dealt with numerous government issues before that had the potential to harm anime, like <a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stop_Online_Piracy_Act" target="_blank">SOPA</a> as an example. SOPA was an act that would hurt anime fan sites, and would have made watching anime difficult for the common person. Luckily this bill was stopped. <a href="http://www.wsj.com/articles/japan-to-keep-pushing-free-trade-as-trump-exits-pacific-pact-1485227725" target="_blank">Others such as trade agreements may cause harm in the near future.</a><br />
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Even outside of America, other countries have power to influence anime through things like censorship or lack of importation. There are cases where the citizens have little to no power, but there are situations where people in charge of these things are willing elected into power. The actions of little can change the lives of many.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZloJgKJ4vAc/WIrPvhEto9I/AAAAAAAAPcg/oKwZVcUBwq0BTXyqSUQvFXcadRxrcpDDwCK4B/s1600/__elizabeth_kero_kuma_kuro_mameshiba_and_others_hack_hack_sign_angry_birds_ano_natsu_de_matteru_ao_no_exorcist_and_others_drawn_by_hitsukuya__9172d444a12865d997bea393e25f978e.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ZloJgKJ4vAc/WIrPvhEto9I/AAAAAAAAPcg/oKwZVcUBwq0BTXyqSUQvFXcadRxrcpDDwCK4B/s400/__elizabeth_kero_kuma_kuro_mameshiba_and_others_hack_hack_sign_angry_birds_ano_natsu_de_matteru_ao_no_exorcist_and_others_drawn_by_hitsukuya__9172d444a12865d997bea393e25f978e.png" width="307" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member.php?id=671593" target="_blank">Support the Artist!</a><br /><br />"We need to look at the big picture and remember where our merchandise comes from!</td></tr>
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Although politics or economics may not be as interesting to anime watchers, they are important. They are also things that change our lives. So, if something is having an effect on the world I think it's natural to want to play some part in it.<br />
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Imports from Japan may become sparse and more expensive. Anime-viewing sites may go down, and we may see less anime on television. Communities may become less accepting of otaku. The good part is that there's always something that we can do to make things better.<br />
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Right now, I think it's important to gather knowledge on the world and to promote a global mindset. Even more importantly, we need to express what we love and promote positive change to our communities and fandom. Even if it's something small like writing a blog post or making a YouTube video, we each can do something to make the world better for us otaku, and everyone else! This won't happen unless we actually pay attention to what's going on and educate ourselves.<br />
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Therefore, I believe that we need to be aware of the world we live in. If we love anime, Japan, and all that comes with it, we need to make our best efforts to keep things positive!<br />
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Thank you for reading~<br />
<br />Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-23051409465530118582016-12-31T23:35:00.001-05:002016-12-31T23:35:18.258-05:00Happy New Year from Shooting Star Dreamer!<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-44-AaFj_AKI/WGiGVNk2-hI/AAAAAAAAPbU/1awYcVgvEFkAjZxYrzGUuorRPWXlf1jOQCK4B/s1600/New-Year-Anime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Anime New Year" border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-44-AaFj_AKI/WGiGVNk2-hI/AAAAAAAAPbU/1awYcVgvEFkAjZxYrzGUuorRPWXlf1jOQCK4B/s640/New-Year-Anime.jpg" title="Anime New Year" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=60664396" target="_blank">Support the Artist!</a></td></tr>
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<br />
Hello everyone and long time no see! It's been quite a while since I've made a blog post, but I'm sure many of you are wondering if Shooting Star Dreamer is dead/has died. I'm here to confirm and say that this blog is definitely still alive and well!<br />
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Unfortunately, the last official post was made towards the end of August, which was definitely a long time ago. Here we are on the final day of the year, everyone's getting an update at this time, and I'm sure some readers are itching to find out what happened.<br />
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Needless to say, life has been pretty hectic for me with school finishing and everything that comes with it. It's been a very busy second half of the year and I apologize for not keeping the blog up to date. As they say: things happen.<br />
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Despite this rough spot, the dreams are definitely not ending here. As always, with a new year comes a new beginning. This time of the year is my favorite as there are opportunities for change, growth, and new goals. As of now my first goal is to get this blog up and running again! The other goals will then follow suit after that.<br />
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Thus, I challenge my readers to decide on at least one goal for themselves that's a bit abstract. We usually have goals such as "exercise more" or "eat healthier" but I think it's important to improve our less concrete aspects as well.<br />
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For instance, my goal this year was to be more authentic and true to myself. This meant being comfortable with putting myself forward and facing rejection head on. Also, I believe that being yourself means making a few mistakes sometimes and perhaps going off-course, but making your way back in the end.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b4R-CnO0CLk/WGiGnSO43LI/AAAAAAAAPbc/6N_IW3XzyVE9S_DmIHUXSjNacIphSsijQCK4B/s1600/yande.re%2B379503%2Banimal_ears%2Bkimono%2Bsaru%2Bshimakaze%2528zhanjianshaonv%2529%2Byukikaze%2528zhanjianshaonv%2529%2Bzhanjianshaonv.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Anime New Year Resolutions" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b4R-CnO0CLk/WGiGnSO43LI/AAAAAAAAPbc/6N_IW3XzyVE9S_DmIHUXSjNacIphSsijQCK4B/s640/yande.re%2B379503%2Banimal_ears%2Bkimono%2Bsaru%2Bshimakaze%2528zhanjianshaonv%2529%2Byukikaze%2528zhanjianshaonv%2529%2Bzhanjianshaonv.jpg" title="Anime New Year Resolutions" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=60651947" target="_blank">Art Source</a></td></tr>
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These types of things are pretty important as they build up the mindset, which I feel leads to things such as frequent exercise and eating healthy.<br />
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For this year, my goal is to be fearless. I would like to have more courage to take risks and the confidence to back up my actions. Most importantly, I'd like to act more based on what I like and what I wish to achieve, than what I'm trying to prevent. I believe this type of behavior will allow me to become a more balanced individual.<br />
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So with that, I challenge you all to think of something like this for yourself for the coming year. Even if 2016 wasn't the best, I believe 2017 will be a great year! Let's keep positive thoughts in mind!<br />
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Thanks for reading~<br />
<br />Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-32997662755805219602016-08-19T23:59:00.000-04:002016-08-20T00:00:33.412-04:00Anime Depictions of Introverts and Extroverts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ccexeVM1LdU/V7fOxgv495I/AAAAAAAANZA/Iks-lua3SCwJ1BBXoG-txa22x6uZXMFYQCLcB/s1600/IntrovertsandExtrovertsAnime.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Anime Depictions of Introverts and Extroverts" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ccexeVM1LdU/V7fOxgv495I/AAAAAAAANZA/Iks-lua3SCwJ1BBXoG-txa22x6uZXMFYQCLcB/s640/IntrovertsandExtrovertsAnime.png" title="Anime Depictions of Introverts and Extroverts" width="640" /></a></div>
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In our society, there are numerous categories that help define a person. When asked about an individual, it is easy to describe them by choosing a collection of these such as race or gender. While these groupings can be somewhat hurtful, they are mostly helpful in creating unity or learning more about ourselves.<br />
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One of the more controversial labels are those that describe our interactions with the world. The word introvert describes those who gain energy from within, while extrovert describes those who gain energy from the outside world. Neither type is better than the other, and both embody a similar relationship as yin and yang.<br />
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Of course, these types are stereotyped in various forms of media. Anime does a pretty good job of portraying them in a more positive and realistic light, but there are still mishaps. These generalizations stem from common traits, hobbies, and other basic characteristics of an individual that are usually unrelated to an outer or inner personality.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3iaqN_r2fZQ/V7evG7Lmp1I/AAAAAAAANYw/IWs6XA04Jn83SBcsQVVSZo03h7Tk-xCKQCLcB/s1600/IntrovertandExtrovertAnime.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Introvert and Extrovert Stereotypes" border="0" height="480" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3iaqN_r2fZQ/V7evG7Lmp1I/AAAAAAAANYw/IWs6XA04Jn83SBcsQVVSZo03h7Tk-xCKQCLcB/s640/IntrovertandExtrovertAnime.png" title="Introvert and Extrovert Stereotypes" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In addition to these types is the ambivert, someone who falls in between. </td></tr>
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There are various traits that are unrelated to being an introvert or an extrovert. An extrovert can be intelligent and quiet. An introvert can be athletic and very social. Just because a person is a certain type, doesn't mean they have to apply to set rules. <b>Destiny is not decided by someone's personality type.</b><br />
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However, it is good idea to be aware of your traits in order to grow and flourish. This is something that is highly encouraged in the professional world by various businesses and educational environments. This is also something I see anime characters go through as their character develops and they become more confident about themselves.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_4_0RvWSRTA/V7fP2GIxXdI/AAAAAAAANZI/YX5_EMg0PRgS7Qmlz7bC6p_T2RmzReerQCLcB/s1600/Honoka-Kousaka-Extrovert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Honoka Kousaka Extrovert" border="0" height="378" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_4_0RvWSRTA/V7fP2GIxXdI/AAAAAAAANZI/YX5_EMg0PRgS7Qmlz7bC6p_T2RmzReerQCLcB/s640/Honoka-Kousaka-Extrovert.jpg" title="Honoka Kousaka Extrovert" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://myanimelist.net/character/46171/Honoka_Kousaka" target="_blank">Honoka Kousaka - Love Live</a>. A (healthy) extrovert who has a warm and caring personality, thrives by working with others and brings them together under a common purpose.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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When it comes to anime, introvert and extroverts characters tend to fit into these basic molds. The main difference is that, this is just their outer layer. Anime tends to reveal more and more about them as time goes on, until they literally <b>break the stereotype. </b>They take the cliche and then add a twist over time. I think this makes anime characters a lot more relatable.<br />
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Although, with these personality types, there can sometimes be too much of a good thing. No matter what side you fall on (or even if you are between) there's a certain balance that is necessary to maintain.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tdf6-dilwqY/V7fSHDMUVqI/AAAAAAAANZU/ymoIe742GEklh30O-WWi5KmSIdWzE5DaACLcB/s1600/Tachibana-Kanade-Introvert.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kanade Tachibana Introvert" border="0" height="400" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Tdf6-dilwqY/V7fSHDMUVqI/AAAAAAAANZU/ymoIe742GEklh30O-WWi5KmSIdWzE5DaACLcB/s640/Tachibana-Kanade-Introvert.jpg" title="Kanade Tachibana Introvert" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://myanimelist.net/character/22369/Kanade_Tachibana" target="_blank">Kanade <span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Tachibana</span></a><span style="font-size: 12.8px;"> - Angel Beats. A (healthy) introvert that is somewhat quiet, but cares deeply for her friends. She takes on tasks with great responsibility.</span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Usually we see the hero of the story starting off as an extrovert with little substance, or an introvert that has an acute case of apathy. This is usually paralleled by an antagonist or deuteragonist (the foil to the protagonist) that sports the opposite traits.<br />
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Usually the protagonists or deuteragonist grows with the series, their personality molding into a healthy version of their type, while the antagonist somewhat moves to an unhealthy level. In anime where antagonist characters later become allies, we see a change similar to the protagonist.<br />
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<b>What are instances of unhealthy and healthy levels of introversion and extroversion? </b>Well unhealthy habits actually represent a few of the stereotypes that are present. An extrovert may over exert themselves and forget to spend time on themselves, while an introvert may shut themselves off from people in general, preferring complete solitude. Neither of these are healthy and they do not summarize the types.<br />
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Since in most cases, the stereotypical villain is an introvert, it's easy to see negative and unhealthy traits from them in anime. Otherwise, we may see negative extroverted traits from protagonists. Regardless of being introverted or extroverted, having a layer of substance aside from these types is what makes or breaks a character.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r8dt_EwRM80/V7fThKixzdI/AAAAAAAANZc/8pV4I4Ln1aMG5md68LYE-J3ZeuO5Fu6GgCLcB/s1600/Konata-Computer.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Konata Comptuer" border="0" height="354" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-r8dt_EwRM80/V7fThKixzdI/AAAAAAAANZc/8pV4I4Ln1aMG5md68LYE-J3ZeuO5Fu6GgCLcB/s640/Konata-Computer.png" title="Konata Computer" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just because you enjoy doing this, doesn't mean you're an introvert or an extrovert!</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Now when it comes to actual anime fans, its a different story. The whole talk about unhealthy and healthy traits stay the same, but there's stereotypes that revolve in the anime community when it comes to extroversion and introversion.<br />
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From an outside view, it'd be easy to assume that the anime community is just a collection of introverts. After all, the generalization is that introverts are drawn to media, novels, writing, and similar hobbies.<br />
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<b>Yet still, we have things like anime conventions. Some people have taken a liking to cosplay and being together with others, and even us anime bloggers gain our ideas from interacting with our world. </b>The conclusion is: anime is a medium for both introverts and extroverts, and so is any other occupation or hobby!<br />
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So to finish things off, I hope to make the distinction between introverts and extroverts a bit more clear. Unfortunately, there's a lot of generalization, shaming, and incorrect portrayals that occur in the media, and I'd like to clear that up. Both types of people are genuinely awesome and you should definitely be proud of what you are! If you're in between the two, that is fine as well!<br />
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Coming from my view, I'm an extrovert who deals with a large amount of stereotypical introvert hobbies. I enjoy writing. listening to music, watching anime, and of course playing video games! <b>So don't let it limit you!</b><br />
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For my readers, I'd like to offer resources to learn more about yourself and your personality type. These results shouldn't be taken as an end-all result though, just as a form of self-discovery and improvement.<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://lonerwolf.com/introvert-or-extrovert-test/" target="_blank">Extrovert, Introvert, or Ambivert Test</a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.16personalities.com/free-personality-test" target="_blank">Myers Briggs Personality Test</a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/IntroversionTropes" target="_blank">Introversion Tropes </a></div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="http://tvtropes.org/pmwiki/pmwiki.php/Main/ExtraversionTropes" target="_blank">Extroversion Tropes</a></div>
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Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-87971166717762356982016-08-09T06:14:00.000-04:002016-11-29T22:59:09.520-05:00Cheer Danshi: Men and Pompoms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FSGsI4ccQkA/V6l42p7QWVI/AAAAAAAANYU/UcicdhdQvlEGm_vw4ipVCWAiMXJJgPZAgCLcB/s1600/CheerDanshiTitleCard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FSGsI4ccQkA/V6l42p7QWVI/AAAAAAAANYU/UcicdhdQvlEGm_vw4ipVCWAiMXJJgPZAgCLcB/s640/CheerDanshiTitleCard.png" width="640" /></a></div>
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<i>This is a guest post by Lem Enrile.</i><br />
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Have you seen a live cheer dance performance before? I know most of you have. Even if you are not so fond of it just because your friend dragged you to watch one, I’m sure that you’ll be amazed with the cheerleaders’ performance. Most often, you would see girls being thrown high up in the air as if they are flying, and then they would graciously land on their feet while wearing a goddess smile.<br />
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For a very long time now, girls have dominated the cheerleading world. Admit it. When you hear the word cheer dance, you would immediately think of girls with tight-fitted clothes and short skirts, armed with frilly pompoms. Or if there are guys on the team, they are usually the ones who lift and support the girls while performing their stunts.<br />
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If you are a fan of cheer dance, then you would probably like the anime, Cheer Danshi. However, <b>Cheer Danshi has a different take on cheerleading – its members are all men</b>, specifically, college guys. And these two young men here are the main protagonists:
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXyRc-UsJ2N88bZlBCQcJc95dS7WRDl7kw9ARYmwtu6yUg8sLJkKoUTymHB9umnsjZaXciGK9kDgJaF1yKEEXN5nFdu8h5SyKPvd6OX16PVlq1HUBUbd8MYCKLnOVUUKl_658NhdVOXt0/s1600/kazu+and+haru.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="564" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXyRc-UsJ2N88bZlBCQcJc95dS7WRDl7kw9ARYmwtu6yUg8sLJkKoUTymHB9umnsjZaXciGK9kDgJaF1yKEEXN5nFdu8h5SyKPvd6OX16PVlq1HUBUbd8MYCKLnOVUUKl_658NhdVOXt0/s640/kazu+and+haru.jpg" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://static.zerochan.net/Cheer.Danshi!!.full.1995980.jpg" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Kazu and Haru</a></td></tr>
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I know some of you will feel disgusted, thinking that an all-boys cheerleading group is gay. In fact, Cheer Danshi has been listed in Goboiano’s 15 most dropped summer 2016 anime – which is really sad. At first, I also had plans to drop this anime because it’s summary is just so… not that exciting.<br />
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But I promised to myself that before I drop an anime series this summer season, I should watch episode one first at least, because there are many times that I have dropped an anime due to its poorly written summary only to find out later that it is actually good.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhthsxMXHUUGn8a_xaNa-90kTp_xFvZ_HzAzgcCUGfP6LpZl6IuwPSakzRWGU4mO1h3GUro2Ofsx-fJXMmWP0IysO6r01QaSr72n-MAGB0qC5Ru7315SHPIgVfMhO8M3vFodYuuwseCuLo/s1600/dropped.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="426" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhthsxMXHUUGn8a_xaNa-90kTp_xFvZ_HzAzgcCUGfP6LpZl6IuwPSakzRWGU4mO1h3GUro2Ofsx-fJXMmWP0IysO6r01QaSr72n-MAGB0qC5Ru7315SHPIgVfMhO8M3vFodYuuwseCuLo/s640/dropped.png" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">333 people dropped Cheer Danshi!! :(</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Maybe these 333 people didn’t realize Cheer Danshi’s awesomeness, or didn’t even bother to watch its first episode. However, your stereotypical view on cheerleading might change, especially if you start watching this anime.<br />
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Now, let me start giving you the good points <b>why Cheer Danshi is worth watching.</b><br />
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<h2>
If girls can do it, guys can do it too.</h2>
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In this anime series, Cheer Danshi emphasizes that cheerleaders do not always have to be girls, that even guys can rival the girls’ cheer dance moves.<br />
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Today, cheerleading is not exclusive for the ladies. Yes, there is an all-girls cheerleading squad, a mixed one, and an all-boys cheerleading squad. So if you are a guy and wants to enter the cheerleading club, don’t be embarrassed to join.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDwA0aJqZ_x68j0xpX-nCU3rnQXB1IPkFrBJ8MLxly3uUsHvWJHuqfN3uAlKpSTZJz_M0a8p-J6oBMzsWlRfJjp7y_mxF_d1q1MeEiLeJE31-gsx4NDfWJwcjoTeRcsfL9kPYL6Oz4DUo/s1600/haru+embarrassed.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDwA0aJqZ_x68j0xpX-nCU3rnQXB1IPkFrBJ8MLxly3uUsHvWJHuqfN3uAlKpSTZJz_M0a8p-J6oBMzsWlRfJjp7y_mxF_d1q1MeEiLeJE31-gsx4NDfWJwcjoTeRcsfL9kPYL6Oz4DUo/s640/haru+embarrassed.png" width="564" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Don't worry Haru. You'll still look cool even if you do that.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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If you got the moves or even if you don’t, Cheer Danshi makes it clear that as long as you are determined to learn or want to try something new for yourself, it is never wrong to try and do your very best. So if the people around you are discouraging you to pursue what you want, don’t mind them; mind what you want to do.<br />
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<h2>
Sports with balls aren’t only the cool and manly sports.</h2>
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I think when it comes to coolness and manliness, Cheer Danshi doesn’t fall behind. Cheer dance is a sports for men too! I actually like Cheer Danshi being a nontraditional sports anime. This is in fact a rare find because most sports anime are basketball, tennis, baseball, soccer, or any other sports that involve balls.<br />
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Though Cheer Danshi doesn’t play balls, isn’t this cool enough?<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" class="YOUTUBE-iframe-video" data-thumbnail-src="https://i.ytimg.com/vi/ScKIZxiT2RM/0.jpg" frameborder="0" height="266" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/ScKIZxiT2RM?feature=player_embedded" width="320"></iframe></div>
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<h2>
If things aren’t working out, it’s okay to quit.</h2>
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Most anime series teach us to “Try our hardest” but Cheer Danshi also understands that it’s okay to let go of your passion when you have already reached your limit. Haru was once a member of the judo club but because he was not delivering any results, he decided to quit. And later on joined the cheer dance club.<br />
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I know most younger anime fans live by this quote “Never give up.” But sometimes, holding on gives yourself more damage whether it’s love or dreams. If you quit at something, I think it is not actually that bad. When you quit, you are just giving yourself a favor of opening up a new chapter in your life. And you’ll understand this more once you became an adult.<br />
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<h2>
Cheer Danshi revives the TRUE meaning of cheerleading.</h2>
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A lot of people think that a cheer dance performance is only for entertainment. That it's just fun and exciting to watch. However, Cheer Danshi isn't only about entertainment and fun.<br />
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Honestly, a chord was struck in my heart when Kazu told his reasons for building the cheer dance club. Aside from looking up to his parents who were both once cheerleaders, Kazu revives the true purpose and meaning of cheerleading. And that is:<br />
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<blockquote class="tr_bq">
"Becoming a hero by supporting someone else. Gaining the strength to inspire someone to greater heights."</blockquote>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJ9wOIATw2h9FT2EfBNLc8i9Bzoy5uGJRNoRHDYnRcehJZXv9RBwLId2NvP8ZPXom3_rlUpKm47lPQWcP7P_tvJDtK7siJczquHRrpzd-wcC2vFXeKhfeECAcC308Oecqbs-qP_4OV5g/s1600/become+a+hero.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="362" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgkJ9wOIATw2h9FT2EfBNLc8i9Bzoy5uGJRNoRHDYnRcehJZXv9RBwLId2NvP8ZPXom3_rlUpKm47lPQWcP7P_tvJDtK7siJczquHRrpzd-wcC2vFXeKhfeECAcC308Oecqbs-qP_4OV5g/s640/become+a+hero.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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That's it! I hope you consider adding Cheer Danshi on your watchlist. Have you already started watching this anime? What are your views about it? Let me know in the comment box.<br />
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<h2>
About the Author</h2>
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Lem Enrile is a freelance writer whose hobbies are watching anime, reading manga, and taking photos of her three lovely cats. Follow her on <a href="https://twitter.com/LemEnrile" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-78246220191358163732016-08-03T23:52:00.000-04:002016-08-03T23:52:19.155-04:00Happy Birthday Honoka-chan! <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q2Mu4eh02p4/V6K69NP_yrI/AAAAAAAAMQc/Lk90iAEQ3Y4Ribm85CMg1r8Yk2nTdqZTwCLcB/s1600/HonokaTitleCard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Honoka Kousaka Birthday" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q2Mu4eh02p4/V6K69NP_yrI/AAAAAAAAMQc/Lk90iAEQ3Y4Ribm85CMg1r8Yk2nTdqZTwCLcB/s640/HonokaTitleCard.png" title="Honoka Kousaka Birthday" width="640" /></a></div>
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Today marks the birthday of μ's team leader, Honoka Kousaka. Honoka is a character from the very popular idol anime Love Live, which is now airing it's second season known as <a href="https://www.google.com/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=&esrc=s&source=web&cd=1&cad=rja&uact=8&ved=0ahUKEwiQwsPT6qbOAhWGBsAKHcIBC5kQFggcMAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyanimelist.net%2Fanime%2F32526%2FLove_Live_Sunshine&usg=AFQjCNGVRMkhe8RYXzkDmn9N3vt393NQJw&sig2=IDtPUFZp6mrtX8mZ4FOi3w&bvm=bv.128617741,d.eWE" target="_blank">Love Live Sunshine</a>. She's born on August 3rd, and is a fiery Leo.<br />
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I've done a post before on Honoka Kousaka celebrating <a href="http://www.shootingstardreamer.com/2015/08/happy-birthday-honoka-kousaka.html" target="_blank">her birthday</a>, but I wanted to give another quick shoutout to her today. Honoka is a huge inspiration to me and my blog. Therefore, I wanted to give her some spotlight!<br />
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For Honoka related pictures on Pixiv, <a href="http://www.pixiv.net/search.php?s_mode=s_tag_full&word=%E9%AB%98%E5%9D%82%E7%A9%82%E4%B9%83%E6%9E%9C" target="_blank">please follow this link</a>. Look below for a video featuring one of her songs.<br />
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Thank you for reading and Happy Birthday Honoka!<br />
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<br />Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-10586387887735888642016-07-20T23:56:00.001-04:002016-07-20T23:56:12.081-04:00Shooting Star Dreamer at Metrocon 2016<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wB2eD04fvwc/V5BHUsjkvAI/AAAAAAAAMP4/-TuE7i4k1ko2vnD8Dqsuu4SfNL73mPvewCLcB/s1600/TitleCardMetrocon.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Shooting Star Dreamer Metrocon" border="0" height="480" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-wB2eD04fvwc/V5BHUsjkvAI/AAAAAAAAMP4/-TuE7i4k1ko2vnD8Dqsuu4SfNL73mPvewCLcB/s640/TitleCardMetrocon.png" title="Shooting Star Dreamer Metrocon" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hello everyone! This a quick and important announcement (which is partly responsible for the inactivity) that I finally want to release to public. Shooting Star Dreamer will have a table at one of Florida's largest anime convention, Metrocon!<br />
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This is our first time doing anything of the sort, and we hope to do our best! The merchandise our booth will provide are anime bracelets, necklaces and other forms of jewelry. These creations are produced by our sister organization, G.T.I Kreations! I have attached the link to G.T.I on my blog. Please give them support as well!<br />
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<h3 style="text-align: center;">
<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/GTIKreations/?fref=ts" target="_blank">G.T.I Kreations Facebook</a></b></h3>
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<b><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/872544529517848/" target="_blank">Event Page</a></b></h3>
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<b>Our booth is located at table I-23 of the Artist Alley! We are located in the Vendor Room which is on the second floor of the convention center!</b><br />
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As always, thank you for your continued support!<br />
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<br />Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-58045364832509354312016-07-12T00:44:00.002-04:002016-07-12T00:44:38.101-04:00Shokugeki no Souma: Ni no Sara Episode 1 O&A<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15R_8-nxXl0/V4RmDh0JCxI/AAAAAAAAMNE/PyhVtUwKrxoI3TwV3HCO8xaytgtL7Yd4ACK4B/s1600/ShokugekiNinoSara.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shokugeki no Souma: Ni no Sara" border="0" height="480" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-15R_8-nxXl0/V4RmDh0JCxI/AAAAAAAAMNE/PyhVtUwKrxoI3TwV3HCO8xaytgtL7Yd4ACK4B/s640/ShokugekiNinoSara.png" title="Shokugeki no Souma: Ni no Sara" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://xidera.deviantart.com/art/Rural-Scape-343364208" target="_blank">Credits to this wonderful artist for the backdrop.</a><br />Character: Tadokoro Megumi from Shokugeki no Souma</td></tr>
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Hello and welcome to the first episode-by-episode blog post I've done in a long time. Since this segment is still a work in progress, I'll probably limit my posts of this type to one per season, but we'll see how things continue.<br />
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Now you may be asking, what does the O&A mean at the end of this title? Well, even though I'm delving into a more common area in anime blogging, I'd like things to be different here at Shooting Star Dreamer.<br />
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So instead of the generic review, I'll be highlight and giving an overview of each episode and providing thoughts along the way. Lastly, I'll be extracting different things from the anime and making the symbolism public. <b>Thus, this segment is called O&A (co</b><b>ntrary to Q&A) which stands for Overview and Analysis.</b><br />
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With that out of the way, let's continue! To kick things off, I'll covering my favorite anime this season: <i><a href="http://myanimelist.net/anime/32282/Shokugeki_no_Souma__Ni_no_Sara" target="_blank"><span id="goog_37141890"></span>Shokugeki no Souma: Ni no Sara</a><span id="goog_37141891"></span></i>. So let's get to it!<br />
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<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Shokugeki no Souma: Ni no Sara Episode 1</h2>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AVKBWWLHV-I/V4RiuVNM_4I/AAAAAAAAMMg/rYWbAgpefCAlk5TYdM3-aK71xlBuwmm-gCK4B/s1600/Shokugeki_1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shokugeki Autumn Elections" border="0" height="360" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-AVKBWWLHV-I/V4RiuVNM_4I/AAAAAAAAMMg/rYWbAgpefCAlk5TYdM3-aK71xlBuwmm-gCK4B/s640/Shokugeki_1.png" title="Shokugeki Autumn Elections" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Takumi Aldini showcased in the quick intro.<br /></td></tr>
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Season two starts right up without wasting any time, jumping right into the Autumn Elections. We're not given much of a refresher before the competition of the episode, and the anime seems to be moving a bit faster than it was previously.<br />
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Perhaps this is only for the first episode, or it may be a theme throughout the whole series. Still, it's clear that we're still watching the same, good Shokugeki.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sg-Z0h6FCD4/V4RjkyhgrzI/AAAAAAAAMMs/-jPdA_yT-GceV_MujeSE_Mtv9WugZITywCK4B/s1600/Screenshot_2.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Souma and Tadokoro " border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sg-Z0h6FCD4/V4RjkyhgrzI/AAAAAAAAMMs/-jPdA_yT-GceV_MujeSE_Mtv9WugZITywCK4B/s640/Screenshot_2.png" title="Souma and Tadokoro " width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">"Tadokoro hasn't changed at all!"</td></tr>
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After the small intro, we get a moment to see Tadokoro preparing (somewhat frantically) for her match as she is set to cook on the same day as Souma. The shot above really shows quite the contrast between the two on the big day.<br />
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We then move to the arena, waiting for the first match between Yukihira Souma and Nakiri Alice to begin. After witnessing a somewhat long-winded explanation from Erina, we discover the theme of choice for this match is surprisingly<i> bento</i>, which is somewhat of a simple dish.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_UP5mr065Mg/V4RlKU1Zn7I/AAAAAAAAMM4/92Iex9utals9GMiuQsWSnELqcq_6Da9XQCK4B/s1600/Shokugeki_3.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shokugeki no Souma Bento Boxes" border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-_UP5mr065Mg/V4RlKU1Zn7I/AAAAAAAAMM4/92Iex9utals9GMiuQsWSnELqcq_6Da9XQCK4B/s640/Shokugeki_3.png" title="Shokugeki no Souma Bento Boxes" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Examples of bento.</td></tr>
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Now, bento in the western world is equivalent to a lunch box, where food is prepared and protected to be eaten at a later time. Bento boxes can contain a variety of different meals and dishes, and have varying layouts.<br />
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As seen in this episode, Bento boxes are usually divided into small compartments, with each being used for a separate dish. Such a dish seems to be in Souma's favor, due to it's simplicity.<br />
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However, the cooking begins and Alice seems to have a special recipe up her sleeve. As seen in previous episodes, Alice is known for her dishes that are somewhat unique and "out there." They also make use of futuristic or scientific techniques and rely less on standard methods. We rarely see her use technique like hospitality and heart/adaptability, which are the focal points of Tadokoro and Souma's cooking. <b>This is where things get interesting and the symbolism comes to play.</b><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5BdYl3L-9ik/V4Rm6P_D46I/AAAAAAAAMNQ/cWsZy1Yk4-Id83bKr-GFHL2Ll_7rTlwswCK4B/s1600/Shokugeki_7.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Nakiri Alice versus Yukihira Souma" border="0" height="360" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5BdYl3L-9ik/V4Rm6P_D46I/AAAAAAAAMNQ/cWsZy1Yk4-Id83bKr-GFHL2Ll_7rTlwswCK4B/s640/Shokugeki_7.png" title="Nakiri Alice versus Yukihira Souma" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alice vs Souma! More than a battle of cooking, but a battle of character.</td></tr>
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From here on I feel this episode focuses less on cooking, but more on the characters and development between the two. <b>Thus, the analysis begins</b>. At a glance, Alice and Souma are two very different characters; not just in personality but color scheme, as seen from the image above.<br />
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Alice features little to no color in her appearance. She's composed of white or silver hair, a basic white outfit, and pale skin. The only thing that contains any color are her red eyes, which may hint towards her inner nature. After all, eyes are said to be the windows to one's soul.<br />
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On the other hand we have Souma who is pretty colorful. He has vibrant red hair, tan skin, a black or bluish outfit, and yellow eyes to boot. Their appearances are near opposites.<br />
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Now we can think about their styles of cooking and how these colors are related. Alice's cooking can be described as very methodical. She produces unique works yes, but they're all carefully crafted and scientific in nature. Such an approach is fitting for a dull color scheme. We can even see this in action as she presented her temari bento to the judges.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m8JZWhmygKc/V4Rp7JUgXFI/AAAAAAAAMNc/GsFurTswc70VyBOQMAw2uNDq060f-0ruQCK4B/s1600/Shokugeki_11.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Alice's Temari Bento" border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-m8JZWhmygKc/V4Rp7JUgXFI/AAAAAAAAMNc/GsFurTswc70VyBOQMAw2uNDq060f-0ruQCK4B/s640/Shokugeki_11.png" title="Alice's Temari Bento" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Take note; each of the dishes are placed side by side neatly in a fashion where they can be easily selected.</td></tr>
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The judges take note of her dish and how well-crafted it is. They all enjoy it and remark on the finer points of the dish. Now there's a lot to be said about the dish in term of edibility and cooking skill, but what I took away from this was a bit different.<br />
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Throughout the entirety of her turn in serving the judges they remarked on how wonderful the dish was, and even commented that it was like eating at a traditional Japanese restaurant. They were even amused at how she put all her skills to use in a theme even this simple.<br />
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The thing is, the key trait of her bento was that the judges knew mostly what they were getting, and of course it was something that tasted well...good. While her cooking and presentation were superb, and her techniques were impressive, her dish lacked heart.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HG-CoTAeD5M/V4RsToBKK2I/AAAAAAAAMNo/1arydOgoAmUKLxrg2phWxyPR_EklR5aYACK4B/s1600/Shokugeki_16.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Souma's Candy" border="0" height="360" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-HG-CoTAeD5M/V4RsToBKK2I/AAAAAAAAMNo/1arydOgoAmUKLxrg2phWxyPR_EklR5aYACK4B/s640/Shokugeki_16.png" title="Souma's Candy" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">You can learn a lot from kids!</td></tr>
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Of course after this, it's Souma's turn. Souma as the king of innovation when it comes to dishes and bringing out the unexpected, packs a bento that is in direct opposition to Alice's. His bento is simple and a bit more plain in comparison, but filled with surprises. Also, the effort put into it was fueled differently.<br />
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Souma uses less of the by-the-book approach and a more humanistic take when it comes to his cooking. His motivations are fueled more by the interactions he's had with others such as children, his old customers, and his own experience. This goes as far as making use of a children's candy to spice up his dish.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LAkDIm9fXrM/V4Rtf-LDMJI/AAAAAAAAMN0/GibalY9w8ZIs84Zqyp7x_TRzYGsF60tBACK4B/s1600/Shokugeki_19.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shokugeki Director's Decision" border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-LAkDIm9fXrM/V4Rtf-LDMJI/AAAAAAAAMN0/GibalY9w8ZIs84Zqyp7x_TRzYGsF60tBACK4B/s640/Shokugeki_19.png" title="Shokugeki Director's Decision" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Even the Director of Totsuki Academy remembers that fun and innovation are key ingredients in successful cooking.</td></tr>
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Upon tasting Souma's bento the judges began to smile and went through quite a few scenes of silliness. The main point of this was that the judges were having fun eating's Souma's food. They were more entertained by the surprises that his cuisine offered and enjoyed the innovation. At this point, the winner of the match was pretty much clear.<br />
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With this being said, I do not necessarily believe that Alice's cooking is bad. I also do not think that Alice's personality is "wrong."She appealed to judges in taste and quality, but Souma appealed in innovation and enjoyment. To top it off, he made use of scientific techniques as well to make the finished product taste good.<br />
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At the end, the match was a battle between technicality and humanity. Alice and Souma representing each respectively. I believe this episode was a great one for both Alice and Souma, as we got to understand both characters a bit more. Alice may have lost this fight, but I feel like her cooking will be a lot better in the future.<br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8jeIMV9Rqs/V4RwJRt17gI/AAAAAAAAMOA/gnh-lMI3EZo8Lynbb5jRIQ54Pz2m3I5YgCK4B/s1600/Shokugeki_End1.png" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Shokugeki no Souma: Ni no Sara Episode 2" border="0" height="360" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-N8jeIMV9Rqs/V4RwJRt17gI/AAAAAAAAMOA/gnh-lMI3EZo8Lynbb5jRIQ54Pz2m3I5YgCK4B/s640/Shokugeki_End1.png" title="Shokugeki no Souma: Ni no Sara Episode 2" width="640" /></a><br />
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With Souma moving on in the tournament, we await for Tadokoro's match in episode two!<br />
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Apologies if this is a long read. This is a new topic and it may take a bit of time to get used to. Please leave feedback and comments below, I will most certainly read them all!<br />
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As always, thank you for reading~<br />
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<br />Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-73236808717470189322016-07-10T23:56:00.000-04:002016-07-10T23:56:09.366-04:00Shooting Star Spotlights: Defining Otaku<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H01jWo4V4Ds/V4MYJnaYtiI/AAAAAAAAMME/cFvNj2T1OFstxm6w8ESZ6qy1EsU-VToIACLcB/s1600/ShootingStarSpotlights1.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Shooting Star Spotlights" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-H01jWo4V4Ds/V4MYJnaYtiI/AAAAAAAAMME/cFvNj2T1OFstxm6w8ESZ6qy1EsU-VToIACLcB/s640/ShootingStarSpotlights1.png" title="Shooting Star Spotlights" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.project-imas.com/wiki/Miki_Hoshii" target="_blank">Character: Miki Hoshii from Idolm@ster</a></td></tr>
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What is an otaku? This question is asked quite a bit throughout the anime community and the answer differs depending on who you talk to. This question is eventually what led to the creation of this blog! Shooting Star Dreamer's <a href="http://www.shootingstardreamer.com/2013/04/what-is-otaku_28.html" target="_blank">first blog post</a> sums this up, and the <a href="http://www.shootingstardreamer.com/2014/01/breaking-stereotype.html" target="_blank">later post</a> discusses breaking the otaku stereotype.<br />
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Today however, I'd like to highlight the opinions of others, instead of solely my own. Also with this, I'm opening (or somewhat changing) a segment of my blog, known as Shooting Star Spotlights. Contrary to other spotlights, I want this category to highlight bloggers/websites/posts, but specifically anime bloggers.<br />
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Each spotlight under this title will focus on a specific theme, and all blogs or websites I provide will have a post relating to this theme. The websites I pick may not necessarily be active, but will contain posts that deserve attention.<br />
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So below are posts that I feel discuss the concept of otaku well. I like their definitions and perspective on the otaku label and believe that their posts are worthy enough to share with you all. Please take the time to read or at least skim through them!<br />
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Thank you for reading~<br />
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<a href="http://www.thegramblinite.com/news/view.php/393808/Turning-a-negative-into-a-positive" target="_blank">Turning a Negative into a Positive ~ by Reneaux Ruffin</a></h2>
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<a href="http://web-japan.org/trends/business/bus050830.html" target="_blank">Geek Spending Power ~ by Trends in Japan</a></h2>
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<a href="http://blog.honeyfeed.fm/what-is-an-otaku-anime-beginner/" target="_blank">What is an "Otaku"? by Daniel Bengtsson </a></h2>
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Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-70858510466758729072016-07-05T22:49:00.000-04:002016-07-05T22:49:25.489-04:00Summer 2016 Anime Watchlist <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zKbgsIlVS90/V3xv6p-K5DI/AAAAAAAAMLw/UF32XOnfgVsHbdRVX38aP563FgYVwGqhgCLcB/s1600/TitleCard.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Summer 2016 Anime Watchlist" border="0" height="480" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zKbgsIlVS90/V3xv6p-K5DI/AAAAAAAAMLw/UF32XOnfgVsHbdRVX38aP563FgYVwGqhgCLcB/s640/TitleCard.png" title="Summer 2016 Anime Watchlist" width="640" /></a></div>
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Hello everyone! Shooting Star Dreamer has focused on anime from the past and present alike, but now its time to move on to newer and better things. In order to do this, we need to keep up with the current anime. So with this Summer season, the anime hiatus is over. Here comes my official watchlist!<br />
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<i>Disclaimer: This watch list features anime that I find interesting and plan to try out. There is no guarantee that I'll finish the anime, but I'll at least attempt to do a post on each one! </i><br />
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For those viewing this list and wishing to leave a recommendation, <b>feel free to comment below with your anime.</b> I'll take into account every request, but I won't guarantee that I'll enjoy or finish it. (Don't let this stop you from recommending though!)<br />
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<b>Click the title links for more information and PV!</b></h3>
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Summer 2016 Anime Watchlist </u></h2>
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<a href="http://anilist.co/anime/21518/SHOKUGEKINOSOUMANinoSara" target="_blank">SHOKUGEKI NO SOUMA: Ni no Sara</a></h2>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mfJ8ds0QIjI/V3xWr73eG0I/AAAAAAAAMKc/jw_6L7wxScUXggOG1rMXOg_hKAvmrckIwCK4B/s1600/Shokugeki-No-Souma-Second-Season.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="SHOKUGEKI NO SOUMA: Ni no Sara" border="0" height="426" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-mfJ8ds0QIjI/V3xWr73eG0I/AAAAAAAAMKc/jw_6L7wxScUXggOG1rMXOg_hKAvmrckIwCK4B/s640/Shokugeki-No-Souma-Second-Season.jpg" title="SHOKUGEKI NO SOUMA: Ni no Sara" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://anilist.co/anime/21378/MasouGakuenHxH" target="_blank">Masou Gakuen HxH</a></h2>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c5YAyUdf_7A/V3xYqLbOY_I/AAAAAAAAMK4/OVJPfvNbgwAxNktWyaW2AFq9NtW6VfeJQCK4B/s1600/Hybrid-x-heart.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Masou Gakuen HxH" border="0" height="640" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-c5YAyUdf_7A/V3xYqLbOY_I/AAAAAAAAMK4/OVJPfvNbgwAxNktWyaW2AFq9NtW6VfeJQCK4B/s640/Hybrid-x-heart.jpg" title="Masou Gakuen HxH" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://anilist.co/anime/21221/TalesofZestiriatheX" target="_blank">Tales of Zestiria the X</a></h2>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ll7ZeeYCEcU/V3xax3fG_CI/AAAAAAAAMLc/cu4S10FhFAEJuVRlY2Rsr8hkxqwfj9MBACK4B/s1600/tales-of-zestiria-x-anime.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Tales of Zestiria the X" border="0" height="536" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-ll7ZeeYCEcU/V3xax3fG_CI/AAAAAAAAMLc/cu4S10FhFAEJuVRlY2Rsr8hkxqwfj9MBACK4B/s640/tales-of-zestiria-x-anime.jpg" title="Tales of Zestiria the X" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://anilist.co/anime/21439/AngeVierge" target="_blank">Ange Vierge</a></h2>
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<a href="http://anilist.co/anime/21584/LoveLiveSunshine" target="_blank">Love Live! Sunshine!!</a></h2>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ObMG329fh5I/V3xVt18ohUI/AAAAAAAAMKI/PdLIB-AaCTkX1AxMpfXIGmetbjIrD9w_ACK4B/s1600/love-live-sunshine-members.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Love Live! Sunshine!!" border="0" height="488" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ObMG329fh5I/V3xVt18ohUI/AAAAAAAAMKI/PdLIB-AaCTkX1AxMpfXIGmetbjIrD9w_ACK4B/s640/love-live-sunshine-members.jpg" title="Love Live! Sunshine!!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://anilist.co/anime/21406/Amanchu" target="_blank"><span id="goog_1776534389"></span>Amachu<span id="goog_1776534390"></span>!</a></h2>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JntwPAJsaLQ/V3xWeaemmvI/AAAAAAAAMKU/bAczMgDn0kk3pGrX-kNwFeR4y7MdwLfYQCK4B/s1600/Amachu%2521.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="Amachu!" border="0" height="452" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-JntwPAJsaLQ/V3xWeaemmvI/AAAAAAAAMKU/bAczMgDn0kk3pGrX-kNwFeR4y7MdwLfYQCK4B/s640/Amachu%2521.jpg" title="Amachu!" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://anilist.co/anime/21455/NEWGAME" target="_blank">NEW GAME!</a></h2>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GocpyOKvP6w/V3xZZsleTWI/AAAAAAAAMLI/vtQUApF8uHkz8Y14Be7ATfJ8n_ceBQrbACK4B/s1600/New-Game-Anime.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img alt="NEW GAME!" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GocpyOKvP6w/V3xZZsleTWI/AAAAAAAAMLI/vtQUApF8uHkz8Y14Be7ATfJ8n_ceBQrbACK4B/s640/New-Game-Anime.jpg" title="NEW GAME!" width="626" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://anilist.co/anime/21457/KonoBijutsubuniwaMondaigaAru" target="_blank">Kono Bijutsu-bu ni wa Mondai ga Aru!</a></h2>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_VxTZioD6_0/V3xafp0fioI/AAAAAAAAMLU/Gkv1Ub43nGs3bPdTWjD-a3OMK-rTpExvQCK4B/s1600/KonoBijutsubi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img alt="Kono Bijutsu-bu ni wa Mondai ga Aru!" border="0" height="640" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-_VxTZioD6_0/V3xafp0fioI/AAAAAAAAMLU/Gkv1Ub43nGs3bPdTWjD-a3OMK-rTpExvQCK4B/s640/KonoBijutsubi.jpg" title="Kono Bijutsu-bu ni wa Mondai ga Aru!" width="600" /></a></div>
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Thanks for reading! Feel free to leave a comment with an anime you want me to check out!</div>
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Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6217237748301453397.post-36140662660761674662016-07-04T23:09:00.002-04:002016-07-04T23:09:34.110-04:00Happy 4th of July from Shooting Star Dreamer<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ffKNX6fJl3o/V3sidWU4IcI/AAAAAAAAMJI/ddaUTA_tsVkMIvC8834slQwfIn5-aZ8oACK4B/s1600/Iowa-America-Kantai-colllection.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="Kantai Collection Iowa" border="0" height="640" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/-ffKNX6fJl3o/V3sidWU4IcI/AAAAAAAAMJI/ddaUTA_tsVkMIvC8834slQwfIn5-aZ8oACK4B/s640/Iowa-America-Kantai-colllection.jpg" title="Kantai Collection Iowa" width="451" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pixiv.net/member_illust.php?mode=medium&illust_id=55485038" target="_blank">Enjoy a picture of Iowa, our resident American ship girl! </a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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Hello anime fans and fellow otaku, and happy 4th of July! Since today is a holiday, expect a new anime-related post from this blog tomorrow. (I promise, we'll be back to our Japan-centered topics soon.)<br />
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For now, I hope everyone is enjoying the holiday festivities. (for those of us who are in America.) Have a cook out, light some fireworks or sparklers, but most importantly, be safe!<br />
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Until next time, see you~<br />
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<br />Rekarihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08802455822177114791noreply@blogger.com0