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	<title>AlternateSam.com</title>
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	<link>http://www.alternatesam.com</link>
	<description>Life is just but a stage under the skies</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Tue, 06 Apr 2010 17:48:26 +0000</lastBuildDate>
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		<title>An open letter to CNN by Nogami Takeshi</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/07/an-open-letter-to-cnn-by-nogami-takeshi/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/07/an-open-letter-to-cnn-by-nogami-takeshi/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 06 Apr 2010 17:05:08 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Anime]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Japan]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=1274</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Reposted from tsurupeta.info who translated it from Nogami Takeshi&#8217;s blog.
Nogami Takeshi is a Japanese mangaka known for works such as Koutetsu no shoujo-tachi (art, Shounen Ace), Serafuku to juusensha (Champion Red Ichigo) or various artworks for the Strike Witches franchise. He has written an open letter to CNN in reaction to the latest report about [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/01/22/the-ninja-otaku/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Ninja Otaku'>The Ninja Otaku</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/17/spicy-wolf-manga/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Spicy Wolf Manga'>Spicy Wolf Manga</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Reposted from <a href="http://www.tsurupeta.info/content/open-letter-to-cnn-by-nogami-takeshi", target="_blank">tsurupeta.info</a> who translated it from <a href="http://nogami.firstspear.com/?eid=1125442", target="_blank">Nogami Takeshi&#8217;s blog</a>.</p>
<p>Nogami Takeshi is a Japanese mangaka known for works such as Koutetsu no shoujo-tachi (art, Shounen Ace), Serafuku to juusensha (Champion Red Ichigo) or various artworks for the Strike Witches franchise. He has written an open letter to CNN in reaction to the latest report about Rapelay, the Japanese hentai game.</p>
<blockquote><p>
Dear CNN reporter,</p>
<p>I am an author of manga [Japanese comic books]. I started out drawing hentai manga. I put out hentai books. Of course, I also draw manga that aren&#8217;t hentai. Nowadays, most of my work consists of non-hentai manga.</p>
<p>I have seen your news report that tries to stir up fear, prejudice and misunderstanding. I have no connection with the spiffy hentai game featured in your report, I am sorry to say; however as an author of Japanese hentai manga, I think I am well qualified to object to the views you present.</p>
<p>As this objection had to be put together promptly, precise data will be presented later, but it is a fact that in this 21st century, we Japanese enjoy one of the most safe and peaceful societies on Earth. Naturally, that is not to say that our society is without problems, but to be honest, I frankly do not think that you are the ones to tell us.</p>
<p>Men and women are equals in politics and in the law. Your society and ours are no different there. Moreover, the crime rate statistics for both general crime and sex crime in Japan are, with all due respect, several times lower than in the United States. Did you, for instance, fear for your safety while walking the streets of Akihabara, or Ikebukuro (holy ground of hentai books for women)? They&#8217;re probably many times safer than the streets of New York, let alone those of the suburban housing districts around. (And guns are illegal, too.) Furthermore, in our Akihabara and Ikebukuro, there is no persecution of men or women alike, or of sexual minorities like homosexuals. We all live together in peace, expressing ourselves freely.</p>
<p>It also goes without saying that human trafficking and violence against women are serious crimes in Japan too. As a Japanese citizen, I am deeply offended by the insulting implications of that so-called expert who associates Japanese people at large with heinous criminals.</p>
<p>Is hentai detrimental to the upbringing of children? Yes, it some circumstances it may well be the case. It certainly true, for instance, of that game you reported about. I am an average citizen with a younger sister and two nephews; I can relate to your concerns. And precisely as such, I beg to differ with your argument.</p>
<p>Those products are developed for rational adults. You surely don&#8217;t believe that a rational adult would be influenced by such a game into committing rape, do you? Of course, in Japan, both that game you reported about and the hentai manga I draw are only distributed and sold under strict age restrictions to adults.</p>
<p>That your children might obtain such materials on the Internet is a trouble for us as well. Those are pirated copies. We would be grateful if you could let families and schools issue proper warnings to children. And would it be too much to ask that appropriate age restrictions are put in place in stores in your country so that the rational adults can buy legitimate copies?</p>
<p>By the way, in the proud Japanese traditional popular art of ukiyo-e (woodblock prints from the Edo period), there were many works with sexual subjects, called shunga. You did like these too, didn&#8217;t you? Well, we are their successors. We make works of art. Let me say that again. It is just art. I assume that you are capable of distinguishing fiction from reality like we do. Are you not?</p>
<p>Obscenity? Ah well, on that point, I would rather quote from the book beside your bed.</p>
<blockquote><p>
But Jesus went to the Mount of Olives. At dawn he appeared again in the temple courts, where all the people gathered around him, and he sat down to teach them. The teachers of the law and the Pharisees brought in a woman caught in adultery. They made her stand before the group and said to Jesus, “Teacher, this woman was caught in the act of adultery. In the Law Moses commanded us to stone such women. Now what do you say?” They were using this question as a trap, in order to have a basis for accusing him.</p>
<p>But Jesus bent down and started to write on the ground with his finger. When they kept on questioning him, he straightened up and said to them, “If any one of you is without sin, let him be the first to throw a stone at her.” Again he stooped down and wrote on the ground.</p>
<p>At this, those who heard began to go away one at a time, the older ones first, until only Jesus was left, with the woman still standing there. Jesus straightened up and asked her, “Woman, where are they? Has no one condemned you?”</p>
<p>“No one, sir,” she said. “Then neither do I condemn you,” Jesus declared. “Go now and leave your life of sin.”
</p></blockquote>
<p>(John 8:1–11)</p>
<p>I am afraid I am Buddhist, not Christian, but I respect your Lord nonetheless. His word that you, me and all mankind are hentai is pregnant with meaning. Yet, there is a difference between “His” views (that you share) and mine. I do not think that people being hentai is a sin. There is nothing wrong with rational people being hentai.</p>
<p>I, at any rate, do not see anything wrong with that. Do you?</p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>Takeshi Nogami.
</p></blockquote>
<p>Personally, I feel this big hoo-ha was pretty much WOLS as the original report came up <a href="http://zepy.momotato.com/2009/06/02/production-and-sale-of-rape-games-will-be-banned/" target="_blank">more than a year ago</a> and <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2010/WORLD/asiapcf/03/30/japan.video.game.rape/index.html" target="_blank">CNN only made a video</a> about it on the 31st of March 2010. Besides this, seeing that their Japanese correspondent is essentially a <a href="http://www.cnn.com/CNN/anchors_reporters/lah.kyung.html?iref=allsearch" target="_blank">hyper-nationalistic Korean</a> (What were they thinking!?!), the bad blood between the entire issue isn&#8217;t that surprising anymore. Nogami Takeshi&#8217;s letter was pretty well-written and summed all the main arguments &#8211; The consumers are adults and know what they are doing so just STFU and please bring your lame reporting somewhere else &#8211; pretty much in its entirety. I urge everyone who sees this to consider emailing this to CNN just to let them know how ridiculous their moral censure is. I don&#8217;t like rape hentai, be it in manga or in a VN or a game. However, what I hate more is someone trying to take the moral high ground and impose their moral values on another person. If you are depending on the Internet to be your kids&#8217; moral guardians, well, let&#8217;s just say you are going to be in for a nasty surprise.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/01/22/the-ninja-otaku/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Ninja Otaku'>The Ninja Otaku</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/17/spicy-wolf-manga/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Spicy Wolf Manga'>Spicy Wolf Manga</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>3</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Top 5 Bishoujo Figures for 2009</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/02/top-5-bishoujo-figures-for-2009/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/02/top-5-bishoujo-figures-for-2009/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 01 Apr 2010 16:52:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Black Rock Shooter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[GoodSmile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Haruhi]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PVC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Saber]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[TTGL]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Yoko]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=1216</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[2009 has been a pretty good year for figure collectors especially in Singapore. Anime Fest Asia came and Danny Choo brought the Tokyo Figure Show out of Japan for the first time. The entire showcase of nendoroids as well as PVCs was stunning and I believe it was the first time a collection of such [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/02/the-fast-the-furious-and-the-fake-saber-lily/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!'>The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/16/goodsmile-shiki/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: GoodSmile Shiki'>GoodSmile Shiki</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/09/yoko-littner/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Yoko Littner 1/8 PVC'>Yoko Littner 1/8 PVC</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>2009 has been a pretty good year for figure collectors especially in Singapore. Anime Fest Asia came and Danny Choo brought the Tokyo Figure Show out of Japan for the first time. The entire showcase of nendoroids as well as PVCs was stunning and I believe it was the first time a collection of such scale was displayed in Singapore for the public. The figure collection craze amongst the general public took off there and then and I can already see a thriving and rapidly growing community springing up in a few short months.</p>
<p>The top 5 figures for 2009 are of course purely based on my personal opinion. The only criteria is that it has to come out during the year 2009 so those which has been announced in 2009 but only released in 2010 will not be considered.</p>
<p>Ok, let&#8217;s start!</p>
<p><strong>5. Native&#8217;s Kotone Banana Girl</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Native-Kotone.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/Native-Kotone.jpg" alt="Native Kotone Banana Girl" width="450" height="599" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1244" /></a></p>
<p>This figure originated from a Tony Taka artwork which was then taken up by Native on a limited run. Fairly hard to get and only if you are willing to ship it from Japan. Very good details and a coquettish yet sensual face at the same time. Comes with the banana, desk and fully castoff-able clothes. Potentially a very very interesting photoshoot subject. </p>
<p>For more pictures of this figure, please take a look <a href="http://www.sankakucomplex.com/2009/02/19/tony-takas-kotone-ousaka-banana-ero-figure/", target="_blank">here</a>.<br />
<br class="_blank" /><br />
<strong>4. Alter&#8217;s Yoko Littner</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/yokolittner.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/yokolittner.jpg" alt="Native Kotone Banana Girl" width="450" height="563" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1245" /></a></p>
<p>Definitely one of my favourite PVC purchase for 2009, the Alter&#8217;s version of Yoko Littner comes with a detailed, sculpted base with Yoko bearing pistols as well as a wind-swept jacket. A more mature themed Yoko but very very well-made nonetheless. Can&#8217;t find any obvious flaws and her resolute expression on her face coupled with the pose of her with her rifle make this a MUST-GET for any TTGL fans. For my short review, please click <a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/09/yoko-littner/", target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<p><a href="http://polyvinylcrush.com/?p=5787", target="_blank">Gallery of Yoko Littner</a>.<br />
<br class="_blank" /><br />
<strong>3. Goodsmile&#8217;s Haruhi + Mikuru + Yuki Extravaganza Version Set</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/awesomewin.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/awesomewin.jpg" alt="Haruhi, Yuki and Mikuru from Goodsmile" width="600" height="431" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1246" /></a></p>
<p>This is technically 3 figures but the entire collection is a set so I&#8217;m including it as a single figure. The set features a very dynamic trio with Haruhi on her electric guitar screaming passion, Yuki with her usual calmness on her guitar and the air-headed Mikuru with her tamborines. Besides the nicely made instruments, the details on them (note the creases on the jackets and the stocking linings on Haruhi) make this set very very hard to find after it was released. Prices started shooting up and I really regretted not pre-ordering it. Interestingly, many people commented that Mikuru looks like a potential leaner but it turned out to be a false alarm which was a hugh relief. </p>
<p>Gallery of <a href="http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2204/Haruhi+Suzumiya+Extravaganza+Ver.html", target="_blank">Haruhi,</a> <a href="http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2292/Yuki+Nagato+Extravaganza+Ver.html", target="_blank">Yuki</a> &#038; <a href="http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2260/Mikuru+Asahina+Extravaganza+Ver.html", target="_blank">Mikuru</a>.<br />
<br class="_blank" /><br />
<strong>2. GoodSmile&#8217;s Saber Lily ~Distant Avalon~</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/saberlily.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/saberlily.jpg" alt="Saber Lily Distant Avalon" width="600" height="441" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1248" /></a></p>
<p>No surprises here. This was one that many Saber fans were waiting for the entire year and turned many non-Saber fans into one. The dynamic pose, the fierce expression, the subtle tonal shadings and the elegant base. What more can you ask for? Best Saber figure in years, and probably ever.</p>
<p>More of the Saber Lily ~Distant Avalon~ figure at the gallery over at <a href="http://akibahobby.net/2009/09/gsc_saber_liliy_review.html" target="_blank">AkibaHobby</a><br />
<br class="_blank" /><br />
<strong>1. GoodSmile&#8217;s BLACK ROCK SHOOTER</strong></p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/brs2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/brs2.jpg" alt="Black Rock Shooter" width="450" height="675" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1260" /></a></p>
<p>Hands up if anyone, ANYONE, finds this a surprise. This made it into year 2009 barely by the skin of the teeth, launching on the 23th of December and only available in stores around the 28th of December onwards due to the Christmas break.</p>
<p>With all the rave reviews going about the internet, I guess it would be extremely sycophantic and redundant to even review the entire figure for the 9000th time. Just look at the cannon, the scar on the belly, the flame eye and of course, the marvelous detailed base and marvel at how far PVC figures have progressed ever since they started being produced. Paired with a careful touch of the paintbrush, this figure will no doubt be a classic in the PVC world. </p>
<p>When it was first shown unpainted, people have already started remarking about how fantastic it would be and how detailed it was. And when the pre-order was open, everyone in the know just started rubbing their hands in anticipation. After months of delay, this was finally released as the year was winding down. And I bet not a single one of them was disappointed by the end result or the waiting time after holding this in their hands.</p>
<p>Awesome gallery of Black Rock Shooter over here at <a href="http://www.happysoda.com/1129/black-rock-shooter", target="_blank">Happysoda</a>. I have been following his site for the longest time as he continues to amaze me with his stuff.<br />
<br class="_blank" /><br />
And there you go, my top 5 bishoujo figures for the year 2009! GoodSmile is certainly well on its way to world domination by the looks of things!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/mix5.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/04/mix5.jpg" alt="2009 top 5" width="600" height="257" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1264" /></a><br />
<br class="_blank" /><br class="_blank" /></p>
<h6>Pictures courtesy of Goodsmile.info, akibahobby.net, polyvinylcrush.com &#038; happysoda.com</h6>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/02/the-fast-the-furious-and-the-fake-saber-lily/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!'>The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/16/goodsmile-shiki/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: GoodSmile Shiki'>GoodSmile Shiki</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/09/yoko-littner/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Yoko Littner 1/8 PVC'>Yoko Littner 1/8 PVC</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>“Dear” ~ Hatsune Miku: Translation</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/01/%e2%80%9cdear%e2%80%9d-hatsune-miku-translation/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/01/%e2%80%9cdear%e2%80%9d-hatsune-miku-translation/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 31 Mar 2010 17:35:09 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hatsune Miku]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nico Nico Douga]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=1219</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This song has really meaningful lyrics which gets me thinking. To be honest, I have heard this song some time back and didn&#8217;t really think much of it until the Hatsune Miku&#8217;s Giving Day Concert where she performed this song. It got me real sparked up to try to translate it my way. 
Hatsune Miku [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/12/23/kimi-no-shiranai-monogatari-supercell/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: &#8220;Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari&#8221; ~ supercell: Translation Attempt'>&#8220;Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari&#8221; ~ supercell: Translation Attempt</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/06/26/hatsune-miku-figma/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Hatsune Miku Figma'>Hatsune Miku Figma</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/03/09/kagami-miku-cosplay-figure/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Kagami Miku Cosplay Figure Out!'>Kagami Miku Cosplay Figure Out!</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This song has really meaningful lyrics which gets me thinking. To be honest, I have heard this song some time back and didn&#8217;t really think much of it until the Hatsune Miku&#8217;s Giving Day Concert where she performed this song. It got me real sparked up to try to translate it my way. </p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Hatsune Miku -- Dear<br />
	<!-- Smart Youtube -->
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	</span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-i_KGwFms6w&fmt=18">www.youtube.com/watch?v=-i_KGwFms6w</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><br class="_blank" /><br />
Here&#8217;s Usa&#8217;s from Nico Nico Douga version. Which reminds me I need to do a post about all those awesome singers from NND soon. Always meant to do a rough guide to those talented singers but it always slipped my mind.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">
	<!-- Smart Youtube -->
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	</span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrKV35-gUp8&fmt=18">www.youtube.com/watch?v=zrKV35-gUp8</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><br class="_blank" /></p>
<p>Here&#8217;s my attempt.</p>
<p>Lyrics:<br />
<div style="width:46%; float: left; padding-right: 3%; display: inline;" class="post_column_1"><p><br />
(In Romaji)</p>
<p><strong>Dear</strong></p>
<p>Atama no naka de kikoeru kimi no koe ga<br />
Ima mo watashi no kokoro wo yusaburu<br />
Kioku no naka de kimi wa itsudemo<br />
Yasashiku hohoendeiruyo</p>
<p>Ano hi kaeru tochuu kimi to futari<br />
warainagara te wo tsunaide<br />
Zutto zutto konna toki ga tsuzuku to omotteitanoni<br />
Kimi ga saigo ni itta kotoba &#8220;ima made arigatou&#8221; ga<br />
Zutto nariyamanainda</p>
<p>Aitakute aitakute koe ni naranai koe de<br />
Kimi no namae wo yobitsuzukeru<br />
Kanashikute kurushikute<br />
Hitori no yoru ga kowai kara<br />
Yozora miagete<br />
Kimi wo sagashiteru</p>
<p>Kimi ga kureta yubiwa wo ima mo shiteruyo<br />
Kore ga futari no saigo no kizuna dakara<br />
Tooi Tooi sekai de kimi wa ima mo<br />
Yubiwa wo tsukete kureteiruno?</p>
<p>Itsuka Itsuka kimi ni tsutaetaito omotteita kimochi wa<br />
Zutto zutto watashi no kororo no naka ni nemutte iru mama de<br />
Dokokade watashi wo mimamoru kimi ni todoku youni<br />
Watashi wa kono uta wo utauyo</p>
<p>Aitakute aitakute koe ni naranai koe de<br />
Kimi no namae wo yobitsuzukeru<br />
Kanashikute kurushikute<br />
Hitori no yoru ga kowai kara<br />
Yozora mieagete</p>
<p>Daisuki na kimi no koto wo<br />
Zutto wasurenaiyo<br />
Utsurikawaru keshiki no naka demo</p>
<p>Saigo made ienakatta<br />
Kono kotoba wo kimi ni okuruyo<br />
Kimi no koto zutto<br />
Aishiteiru kara<br />
</div><br />
<div style="width:48%; float: left; padding-right: 2%; display: inline;" class="post_column_1"><p><br />
(In English)</p>
<p><strong>Dear</strong></p>
<p>Inside my head I hear your voice<br />
Even now my heart is trembling<br />
The memory of you inside will stay forever<br />
Smiling kindly</p>
<p>That day as we were on our way home together<br />
Laughing while we held hands<br />
I wanted this moment to continue forever<br />
Your last words were &#8220;So far <for everything>, thank you&#8221;<br />
as it continously echoes</p>
<p>I want to meet you, to meet the voice that has no longer resonate<br />
as I call out your name<br />
The sorrow, the pain<br />
because the lonely night is frightening<br />
I look up to the night sky<br />
searching for you</p>
<p>[I'm] still wearing the ring you gave<br />
Because this was the last bond for the two of us<br />
In the far far away world you are in now<br />
Are you wearing the ring that we exchanged?</p>
<p>Someday (someday) I will convey to you my thoughts and feelings<br />
that has been lying present inside my heart for a long time<br />
To make sure this reaches to wherever you are watching over me<br />
I will sing this song</p>
<p>I want to meet you, to meet the voice that has no longer resonate<br />
as I call out your name<br />
The sorrow, the pain<br />
because the lonely night is scary<br />
I look up to the night sky</p>
<p>The great love I experienced over you<br />
I would never forget<br />
Even though my outlook might change inside</p>
<p>As far as I want to be able to say<br />
in these words that I want to send you<br />
I will love you forever.<br />
</div><br />
<div style="clear: both;"></div></p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/12/23/kimi-no-shiranai-monogatari-supercell/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: &#8220;Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari&#8221; ~ supercell: Translation Attempt'>&#8220;Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari&#8221; ~ supercell: Translation Attempt</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/06/26/hatsune-miku-figma/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Hatsune Miku Figma'>Hatsune Miku Figma</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/03/09/kagami-miku-cosplay-figure/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Kagami Miku Cosplay Figure Out!'>Kagami Miku Cosplay Figure Out!</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Ninja Otaku</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/01/22/the-ninja-otaku/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/01/22/the-ninja-otaku/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 22 Jan 2010 13:19:54 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Musings]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Anime]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=1183</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I admit it, I can be considered what one will call an otaku if you consider my &#8216;unhealthy&#8217; obsession with anime / PVC figures and the miscellaneous merchandise that you can so often find in any anime items shops such as files and particularly, pencil boards (shitajiki). However, I don&#8217;t exactly go around and announce [...]


No related posts.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>I admit it, I can be considered what one will call an otaku if you consider my &#8216;unhealthy&#8217; obsession with anime / PVC figures and the miscellaneous merchandise that you can so often find in any anime items shops such as files and particularly, pencil boards (shitajiki). However, I don&#8217;t exactly go around and announce such stuff to friends unless I know them well enough or until they have caught on enough to guess what I am up to in my spare time. I have also learnt enough not to go around using anime-related files in school. </p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/mikuninja.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/mikuninja.jpg" alt="miku-ninja" width="600" height="260" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1210" /></a></p>
<p>The point is, being an otaku isn&#8217;t exactly the coolest of things and it can sometimes prove to be quite an awkward moment in a discussion. When I meet someone who share my interest, and I know is totally fine with mine, I will usually start to open up. However, most people will just give you a strange look if you start going on an extended otaku conversation with them. Worse, they remember you as &#8220;the strange otaku&#8221; and that will be the end of your social life so far. Ok, that was probably an exaggeration but you get the idea ^^  Anyway, until then, I will just keep a low profile with regards to my otaku interests and at best, be just a typical narutard/bleach or increasingly, a K-ON fan. Mind you, the first 2 categories are pretty hard for me as I don&#8217;t keep up with either Naruto or Bleach at all. Being a fan of the moe-blob show isn&#8217;t that hard&#8230;.its engineered to let everyone like it. Why else 5 girls prancing around and doing funny stuff? Surely there must be a reason don&#8217;t you think so?</p>
<p>For those with a similar inclinations to remain under the radar, I have 10 tips for you. Not to be presumptuous but I guess we could use every tip we get. </p>
<ol>
<li>The first is one of the easiest &#8211; Do NOT discuss anime or profess to knowing &#8216;popular&#8217; (read cult hits/mega otaku obsession level) titles like Haruhi. When absolutely pressed, talk about shows like Gundam, Bleach and Naruto and just show a passing interest in them.</li>
<p><target="_blank"></p>
<li>Do NOT attempt to have a lecture or &#8216;teaching&#8217; session with other people. If you find that you are dominating the conversation and is already on a 1-minute monologue, stop immediately. Otakus generally feel like they have to attempt to level up other peoples&#8217; otaku knowledge. We have a tendency to correct others or make known our point of view. DO NOT! This is a trap to lure you out of your otaku ninja-hood!</li>
<p><target="_blank"></p>
<li>Do NOT talk about figures/PVCs, especially the gazillion collection that you have or that 1 moe bootylicious PVC girl winking at you from the corner of the shop. Knowledge about The Most Evil Company in the World (TMECW), otherwise known as GoodSmile Company, should be kept to a need-to-know basis. Its partially for their own good as well since no one can withstand the various poisons unleashed periodically on the unsuspecting public by TMECW.<br />
 <target="_blank"><br />
Talking about bishoujo figures is obviously off-limits if you haven&#8217;t figured it out by now. Do not identify or even show recognition of popular collections, the nendoroids or any limited edition rare items. Talking about retail websites such as amiami (finally!), hobby-link japan or even hobbystock/otacute etc are obviously a big NO-NO. When absolutely needed, a discussion about gundam plamo &#038; its difficulty is your best bet. Do not venture in Macross Plamo because it will just spiral out of control into a Ranka vs Sheryl debate.</li>
<p><target="_blank"></p>
<li> Do NOT confess to reading any manga or even any scanlations. Its a dead giveaway for a ninja-otaku especially if you let slip you are reading some obscure or niche titles.</li>
<p><target="_blank"></p>
<li> Do NOT in any case talk about cosplay, cosplayers&#8217; raison d&#8217;être (fancy phrase which basically means why a cosplayer do what he/she does) or celebrity cosplayers (KIPPI !!). People don&#8217;t really want to know what you think of it, and knowing it inside out just make you sound like a creep who stalks those cosplayers. Just say its quirky, interesting and colorful and most people will leave it at that.</li>
<p><target="_blank"></p>
<li>When someone says that some show is the BESTEST show of the season/year/decade/EVAR, and even if its the moe-blob show K-On or some show which you can obviously see is missing a plot, do NOT interject and argue that they are sacrilegious/rubbish/out-of-their-freaking-mind/obviously have not watched enough anime. Just let it go and suppress those urges to knock some sense into that person&#8217;s head. This rule applies to game(ero-games&#8230;), manga or anime movies as well.</li>
<p><target="_blank"></p>
<li>On that note, do NOT even talk or venture into ero-ge/game territory. The less said about this, the better. Self-explanatory for anyone who wants to be a ninja-otaku.</li>
<p><target="_blank"></p>
<li>Do NOT use words like orz/moe etc in your regular vocabulary. Besides making you sound like a terrible weaboo, its very disorientating for anyone who is trying to take you seriously when you are in ninja-otaku mode.</li>
<p><target="_blank"></p>
<li>Most importantly since chances are that many people will trip up on this due to the surprise, do NOT in any case name popular anisong artists as your favourite band/musicians. A regular j-pop one is fine but will set some peoples&#8217; otaku-radar on alert though. Anyone that starts to shift towards the niche like Nana Mizuki, Yukarin etc, no matter how awesome, is of course NOT appropriate for an answer if you are trying to be a ninja-otaku.<br />
<target="_blank"><br />
Personally, I will say Fire Bomber, High &#038; Mighty Color and Orange Range. Most people who are not in the know will just wave them off as regular western bands. Those who are slightly in on the joke might find it slightly familiar on account of Orange Range though.</li>
<p><target="_blank"></p>
<li>Which brings me to the last point. Its fun to know more people who you can just discuss/debate random stuff and commit every mistake the above 9 points have tried to prevent you from committing. This means you have to spread out some &#8216;feelers&#8217; but nothing too obvious. Sometimes it feels much better to be yourself and have a nice chat about how moe-anime is killing the industry. Do NOT wall yourself away from the world</li>
</ol>
<p>That&#8217;s all for now. Have fun and good luck!</p>


<p>No related posts.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>7</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>&#8220;Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari&#8221; ~ supercell: Translation Attempt</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/12/23/kimi-no-shiranai-monogatari-supercell/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/12/23/kimi-no-shiranai-monogatari-supercell/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Dec 2009 19:20:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Anime]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Hatsune Miku]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nico Nico Douga]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Supercell]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=1061</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[This song got me really hooked onto it despite hearing it for the past 2 months already. Very nice music and really wanted to share it. The lyrics are very touching and pretty good in terms of making sense. I feel that most people can relate to it in their own way and this is [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/01/%e2%80%9cdear%e2%80%9d-hatsune-miku-translation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: “Dear” ~ Hatsune Miku: Translation'>“Dear” ~ Hatsune Miku: Translation</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>This song got me really hooked onto it despite hearing it for the past 2 months already. Very nice music and really wanted to share it. The lyrics are very touching and pretty good in terms of making sense. I feel that most people can relate to it in their own way and this is what I feel can determine whether a song is good or not.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/kimi-no-shiranai.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/kimi-no-shiranai.jpg" alt="supercell kimi no shiranai bakemonogatari" width="600" height="257" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1133" /></a></p>
<p>Its the ED of the Bakemonogatari Anime as well as one of the single from Supercell, the group which used to have Hatsune Miku as their lead vocalist and also the creators of Black Rock Shooter. They have alot of really good hits with Hatsune Miku and they released them all on Nico Nico Douga. Currently, for their latest project, their lead vocalist is Nagi (aka gazelle) who is another really talented singer from Nico Nico Douga. Which reminds me that I might do a short introductory post on some of Nico Nico Douga singers as well as Supercell&#8217;s past songs.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, enjoy the videos and the lyrics! I tried for the first time in translating a piece of lyrics so pardon me if there is an error somewhere. Please do correct me so I can improve! <img src='http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<p>This is the PV for their single. I find that it is purposely done in an amateur manner with a young inexperienced casts, probably to capture the spirit and rawness of youth as well as the tribulations of growing up.</p>
<p style="text-align: center;">Kimi no Shiranai Monogatari PV -- supercell<br />
	<!-- Smart Youtube -->
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	</span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yos2eki0_dA&fmt=18">www.youtube.com/watch?v=yos2eki0_dA</a></p>
<p style="text-align: center;"><br class="_blank" /><br />
This is the ED of Bakemonogatari. Really nice anime which I want to finish as soon as I have the time for it.<br />
	<!-- Smart Youtube -->
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	</span><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zgMjmE51GQ&fmt=18">www.youtube.com/watch?v=_zgMjmE51GQ</a></p>
<p>Lyrics:<br />
<div style="width:25%; float: left; padding-right: 2%; display: inline;" class="post_column_1"><p><br />
(In Japanese kana/kanji)</p>
<p><strong>君の知らないものがたり</strong></p>
<p>いつも通りのある日のこと<br />
君は突然立ち上がり言った<br />
「今夜 星を見に行こう」</p>
<p>たまにいいこと言うんだね<br />
なんて 皆して言って笑った<br />
明かりもない道を<br />
馬鹿みたいにはしゃいで歩いた<br />
抱え込んだ孤独や不安に<br />
押し潰されないように</p>
<p>真っ暗な世界から見上げた<br />
夜空は　星が降るようで<br />
いつからだろう 君のことを<br />
追いかける 私がいた<br />
どうかお願い 驚かないで<br />
聞いてよ 私の<br />
この思いを</p>
<p>「あれが、デネブ、アルタイル、ベガ」<br />
君は指差す 夏の大三角<br />
覚えて 空を見る<br />
やっと見つけた 織姫様<br />
だけどどこだろう 彦星様<br />
これじゃ 一人ぼっち</p>
<p>楽しげなひとつ隣の君<br />
私は何も言えなくて<br />
本当はずっと 君のことを<br />
どこかでわかっていた<br />
見つかったって 届きはしない<br />
「だめだよ 泣かないで」<br />
そう言い聞かせた</p>
<p>強がる私は臆病で<br />
興味がないようなフリをしてた</p>
<p>だけど</p>
<p>胸を刺す痛みは増してく<br />
あぁそうか 好きになるって<br />
こういうことなんだね</p>
<p>&#8220;どうしたい？<br />
言ってごらん&#8221;,</p>
<p>心の声がする<br />
君の隣がいい<br />
真実は残酷だ</p>
<p>言わなかった<br />
言えなかった<br />
二度と戻れない</p>
<p>あの夏の日<br />
煌めく星<br />
今でも<br />
思い出せるよ<br />
笑った顔も<br />
怒った顔も<br />
大好きでした</p>
<p>可笑しいよね<br />
わかってたのに<br />
君の知らない<br />
私だけの秘密<br />
夜を越えて<br />
遠い思い出の君が<br />
指をさす<br />
無邪気な声で</p>
<p></div><br />
<div style="width:33%; float: left; padding-right: 2%; display: inline;" class="post_column_1"><p><br />
(In Romaji)</p>
<p><strong>kimi no shiranai monogatari</strong></p>
<p>itsumo doori no aru hi no koto<br />
kimi wa totsuzen tachiagari itta<br />
&#8220;konya hoshi wo mi ni yukou&#8221;</p>
<p>&#8220;tama ni wa ii koto iunda ne&#8221;<br />
nante minna shite itta waratta<br />
akari mo nai michi wo<br />
baka mitai ni hashaide aruita<br />
kakaekonda kodoku ya fuan ni<br />
oshitsubusarenai you ni</p>
<p>makkura na sekai kara miageta<br />
yozora wa hoshi ga furu you de<br />
itsukara darou kimi no koto wo<br />
oikakeru watashi ga ita<br />
dou ka onegai<br />
odorokanai de kiite yo<br />
watashi no kono omoi wo</p>
<p>&#8220;are ga denebu, arutairu bega&#8221;<br />
kimi wa yubisasu natsu no daisankaku<br />
oboete sora wo miru<br />
yatto mitsuketa orihime-sama<br />
dakedo doko darou hikoboshi-sama<br />
kore ja hitoribocchi</p>
<p>tanoshigena hitotsu tonari no kimi<br />
watashi wa nani mo ienakute<br />
hontou wa zutto kimi no koto wo<br />
doko ka de wakatteita<br />
mitsukattatte todoki wa shinai<br />
&#8220;dame da yo nakanai de&#8221;<br />
sou iikikaseta</p>
<p>tsuyogaru watashi wa okubyou de<br />
kyoumi ga nai youna furi wo shiteita</p>
<p>dakedo</p>
<p>mune wo sasu itami wa mashiteku<br />
aa sou ka suki ni narutte<br />
kouiu koto nanda ne</p>
<p>&#8220;doushitai?<br />
itte goran&#8221;,</p>
<p>kokoro no koe ga suru<br />
kimi no tonari ga ii<br />
shinjitsu wa zankoku da</p>
<p>iwanakatta<br />
ienakatta<br />
nidoto modorenai</p>
<p>ano natsu no hi<br />
kirameku hoshi<br />
ima demo omoidaseru yo<br />
waratta kao mo<br />
okotta kao mo<br />
daisuki deshita</p>
<p>okashii yo ne<br />
wakatteta no ni<br />
kimi no shiranai<br />
watashi dake no himitsu<br />
yoru wo koete<br />
tooi omoide no kimi ga<br />
yubi wo sasu<br />
mujakina koe de<br />
</div><br />
<div style="width:37%; float: left; padding-right: 1%; display: inline;" class="post_column_1"><p><br />
(In English)</p>
<p><strong>The Story You Do Not Know</strong></p>
<p>On just another usual day,<br />
you suddenly stood up and said,<br />
&#8220;Let&#8217;s go look at the stars tonight&#8221;.</p>
<p>&#8220;You have really good ideas sometimes&#8221;<br />
exclaimed everyone as they laughed.<br />
On a street without any light,<br />
we walked merrily like fools,<br />
our loneliness and anxiety<br />
are prevented from being crushed.</p>
<p>From a pitch black world I looked up<br />
the night sky seemed as if there were stars falling.<br />
I wonder since when did I<br />
start this adventure of chasing after you.<br />
Please, do not be surprised on<br />
hearing these feelings of mine</p>
<p>&#8220;That is Deneb, Altair, and Vega&#8221;,<br />
you pointed at the Great Summer Triangle.<br />
I remembered, while looking at the sky,<br />
finally finding Vega<br />
but wondered where is Altair.<br />
This, well, is really loneliness.</p>
<p>The single cheerful you who was beside<br />
there is nothing for me to possibly say.<br />
Honestly, for a long time<br />
I have understood you somewhere and<br />
I have found that it will not get through.<br />
&#8220;This&#8217;s not good eh, don&#8217;t cry&#8221;<br />
I should have told you.</p>
<p>Acting brave, I was just a coward<br />
pretending to be uninterested.</p>
<p>But</p>
<p>the pain piercing my chest grows.<br />
Ah, I see. To get to like someone<br />
is somewhat like this.</p>
<p>&#8220;What&#8217;s the matter?<br />
try saying it&#8221;,</p>
<p>the voice of my heart wants to say.<br />
<but> Its pleasant to be beside you<br />
and the reality is harsh.</p>
<p>I didn&#8217;t say it,<br />
I couldn&#8217;t say it,<br />
<and I can> never turn back ever again.</p>
<p>On that summer day<br />
the stars were glittering.<br />
Yet now, I still remember<br />
your laughing face,<br />
your angry face.<br />
I did loved them.</p>
<p>It&#8217;s strange, isn&#8217;t it?<br />
Even though I know<br />
something that you don&#8217;t;<br />
my only secret.<br />
Passing through the night,<br />
the distant memory of you<br />
pointing with your finger<br />
in an innocent voice.<br />
</div><br />
<div style="clear: both;"></div></p>
<p>I tried to preserve the meaning of the japanese lyrics as far as I can word for word and only condensing/summarizing sentences when I can&#8217;t think of any alternative. Also, orihime-sama is the Japanese term for the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vega", target="_blank">Vega Star</a>, hikoboshi is the name for the <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hikoboshi", target="_blank">Altair Star</a> and I have translated accordingly to the implied meaning rather than the literal meaning for them (It doesn&#8217;t make sense otherwise). The stars have a very interesting back-story which has many cultural links to it. Do check it out if you are at the wiki page.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/01/%e2%80%9cdear%e2%80%9d-hatsune-miku-translation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: “Dear” ~ Hatsune Miku: Translation'>“Dear” ~ Hatsune Miku: Translation</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>Anisong At AFA09 &#8211; Basara X Mylene: Macross 7 All Over Again</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/26/anisong-at-afa09-basara-x-mylene-macross-7-all-over-again/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/26/anisong-at-afa09-basara-x-mylene-macross-7-all-over-again/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 26 Nov 2009 14:53:57 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Events]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[AFA]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Macross]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=1038</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Just to share with you a picture of 2 cosplay characters at the recently concluded Anime Fest Asia. 
Basara was great, performing my favorite macross 7 song Try Again (!!!) and Remember 16 (classic!!) amongst other songs including the popular Totsugeki Love Heart. And May&#8217;n sang a few songs from her latest album not released [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/02/afa09-press-release-events-highlights/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: AFA09 Press Release + Events Highlights'>AFA09 Press Release + Events Highlights</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/05/alters-yoko-littner-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alter&#8217;s Yoko Littner OUT!!!'>Alter&#8217;s Yoko Littner OUT!!!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/01/%e2%80%9cdear%e2%80%9d-hatsune-miku-translation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: “Dear” ~ Hatsune Miku: Translation'>“Dear” ~ Hatsune Miku: Translation</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p>Just to share with you a picture of 2 cosplay characters at the recently concluded Anime Fest Asia. </p>
<p>Basara was great, performing my favorite macross 7 song Try Again (!!!) and Remember 16 (classic!!) amongst other songs including the popular Totsugeki Love Heart. And May&#8217;n sang a few songs from her latest album not released yet and also Northern Cross, Lion &#038; 9pm Don&#8217;t be Late. As for the Pure WIN, it was the duet between them and they chose not to revise old material like the Totsugeki Love Heart song which they sang together in January this year. They sang Diamond Crevasse where May&#8217;n sounded slightly under-strength due to Fukuyama&#8217;s powerful voice and then Dynamite Explosion, which was AWESOME due to the entire power and meaning of the song. I had a remarkable fanboy night which was made really memorable by that song as it was a great ending song for the Anisong concert. Adding to the fact that I just finished watching Macross 7 less than 2 weeks ago just make the entire experience really magical for me.</p>
<p>And as for the last WIN of the day, check this out -> Was dying to get them together to pose for a picture when I saw them. Pardon the phone cam please</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/basaramylene.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/basaramylene.jpg" alt="basara-mylene" width="600" height="450" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1037" /></a></p>
<p>One of the best cosplay I have seen the entire weekend (and there were some pretty good ones &#8211; Black Rock Shooter girl, I&#8217;m referring to you) and kudos to their originality. Both of them were the first time I seen these 2 characters in cosplay. </p>
<p>Not really a big fan of cosplay myself but the outfits on these 2 characters were really good and those Altos/Sheryl Nomes/Rankas over the weekends just pale in comparison to both of them. Really capped off my weekend beautifully after the conclusion of AFA &#8216;09.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/02/afa09-press-release-events-highlights/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: AFA09 Press Release + Events Highlights'>AFA09 Press Release + Events Highlights</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/05/alters-yoko-littner-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alter&#8217;s Yoko Littner OUT!!!'>Alter&#8217;s Yoko Littner OUT!!!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/01/%e2%80%9cdear%e2%80%9d-hatsune-miku-translation/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: “Dear” ~ Hatsune Miku: Translation'>“Dear” ~ Hatsune Miku: Translation</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
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		<item>
		<title>GSC&#8217;s Index Announced!</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/16/gscs-index-announced/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/16/gscs-index-announced/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 16 Nov 2009 13:06:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[GoodSmile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PVC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=1015</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Good Smile has announce the pre-ordering of Index from To Aru Majutsu no Index. Quite a nice figure but a plain base and nothing fantastic in the design/sculpting. I guess the production issues with all their new fancy bases must be giving them a ton of headache.
A must-get for all Index&#8217;s fans but otherwise, I [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/19/pre-order-for-alphard-nendoroid-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out'>Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/04/alters-yui-pre-order-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out'>Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/27/freeing-exride/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: FREEing Ex:Ride'>FREEing Ex:Ride</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/indexdetail.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/indexdetail.jpg" alt="index width="600" height="603" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1021" /></a></p>
<p>Good Smile has announce the pre-ordering of Index from To Aru Majutsu no Index. Quite a nice figure but a plain base and nothing fantastic in the design/sculpting. I guess the production issues with all their new fancy bases must be giving them a ton of headache.</p>
<p>A must-get for all Index&#8217;s fans but otherwise, I can safely assume you will give it a miss. Pre-orders will start 17th November, tomorrow. You can expect to get it at the usual places, including <a href="http://www.hlj.com/" target="_blank">HobbyLink Japan</a> and <a href="http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/" target="_blank">HobbySearch</a>.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Index </strong></span><br />
Release Date: Mar 2010<br />
Scale: 1/8th scale &#8211; approximately 190mm in height<br />
Price: 7,800 Yen<br />
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<br class="_blank" /></p>
<h6>Pictures via goodsmile.info</h6>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/19/pre-order-for-alphard-nendoroid-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out'>Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/04/alters-yui-pre-order-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out'>Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/27/freeing-exride/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: FREEing Ex:Ride'>FREEing Ex:Ride</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Alphard PVC pictures</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/13/alphard-pvc-pictures/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/13/alphard-pvc-pictures/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 13 Nov 2009 10:06:18 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Canaan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[GoodSmile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PVC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=1027</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
More pictures of Alphard figure out! All of them look stunning and I can only guess when will they be ready for the market, given all the recent troubles Good Smile has with deadlines etc.
The sculpt looks really good and this is just a 1st print, meaning the final sculpt and finish will probably be [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/19/pre-order-for-alphard-nendoroid-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out'>Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/02/top-5-bishoujo-figures-for-2009/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Top 5 Bishoujo Figures for 2009'>Top 5 Bishoujo Figures for 2009</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/02/the-fast-the-furious-and-the-fake-saber-lily/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!'>The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/alphard.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/alphard.jpg" alt="alphard" width="600" height="600" class="aligncenter size-full wp-image-1029" /></a></p>
<p>More pictures of Alphard figure out! All of them look stunning and I can only guess when will they be ready for the market, given all the recent troubles Good Smile has with deadlines etc.</p>
<p>The sculpt looks really good and this is just a 1st print, meaning the final sculpt and finish will probably be slightly different/better. The slight bit of problem I see in the hair area will probably be fixed by then. The base is top-notch like most of their current figure releases pre-orders. I wonder how much effort it takes to produce them in the factories.</p>
<p>Overall, another affirmation of my decision to go ahead with the pre-order of the Alphard PVC figure and I know it will pair up sweetly with Canaan&#8217;s PVC figure. Just look at their combined bases!<br />
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<p>For more of those stunning pictures, visit AkibaHobby <a href="http://akibahobby.net/2009/11/gsc_alphard_color_sample.html" target="_blank">here</a>!</p>
<p><br class="_blank" /></p>
<h6>Pictures via akibahobby.net</h6>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/19/pre-order-for-alphard-nendoroid-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out'>Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/02/top-5-bishoujo-figures-for-2009/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Top 5 Bishoujo Figures for 2009'>Top 5 Bishoujo Figures for 2009</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/02/the-fast-the-furious-and-the-fake-saber-lily/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!'>The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/02/the-fast-the-furious-and-the-fake-saber-lily/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/02/the-fast-the-furious-and-the-fake-saber-lily/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 02 Oct 2009 07:11:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Fate Stay/Night]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[GoodSmile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PVC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Saber]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Type-Moon]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=888</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
I think most of the people who know about the Saber Lily ~Distant Avalon~ PVC by Goodsmile will have known that it was just released just a few days ago. While I did not order one, I felt it was a wonderful piece of work with fantastic craftsmanship to boot. Regrettably, some bootleggers have already [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/02/top-5-bishoujo-figures-for-2009/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Top 5 Bishoujo Figures for 2009'>Top 5 Bishoujo Figures for 2009</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/16/goodsmile-shiki/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: GoodSmile Shiki'>GoodSmile Shiki</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/28/max-factory-casual-wear-saber-and-shirou-emiya/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Max Factory Casual-Wear Saber and Shirou Emiya Figma'>Max Factory Casual-Wear Saber and Shirou Emiya Figma</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Saber-Lily.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-890" src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/Saber-Lily.jpg" alt="Saber Lily" width="600" height="450" /></a></p>
<p>I think most of the people who know about the Saber Lily ~Distant Avalon~ PVC by Goodsmile will have known that it was just released just a few days ago. While I did not order one, I felt it was a wonderful piece of work with fantastic craftsmanship to boot. Regrettably, some bootleggers have already come up with an imitation PVC of this figure. Here&#8217;s a quick guide to show you the differences, courtesy of Goodsmile.</p>
<p><span id="more-888"></span><br />
Those bootleggers are pretty good themselves, making an imitation of such a well-crafted figure and releasing it just as Goodsmile released the original, probably to confuse those who are not well-versed in spotting fakes. Not that I blame those who fell for the fakes as some of them are quite well done and even passable for the real thing at times. Goodsmile Company predictably, reacted very fast and came out with the <a href="http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/jpn/2679/GSC+%E8%A3%BD%EF%BC%9A%E3%80%8C%E3%82%BB%E3%82%A4%E3%83%90%E3%83%BC%E3%83%BB%E3%83%AA%E3%83%AA%E3%82%A3+%EF%BD%9E%E5%85%A8%E3%81%A6%E9%81%A0%E3%81%8D%E7%90%86%E6%83%B3%E9%83%B7(%E3%82%A2%E3%83%B4%E3%82%A1%E3%83%AD%E3%83%B3)%EF%BD%9E%E3%80%8D.html" target="_blank">update</a> on their webpage to condemn them and showcase the differences as soon as they learn about the issue.</p>
<p><span style="color: #ff0000;"><strong>RED / Left is genuine</strong></span> while <span style="color: #0000ff;"><strong>BLUE / Right is fake</strong></span></p>
<p>The genuine version comes with the Good Smile Company sticker as well as another sticker.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/gsc-sticker.jpg" target="_blank"><img class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-894" src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/gsc-sticker.jpg" alt="goodsmile sticker" width="640" height="206" /></a></p>
<p>The printing on the fake is pretty awful as you can see for yourself. The color is also slightly off as if it was photocopied, which it probably is. ^^</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/back-saber-lily.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/back-saber-lily.jpg" alt="back saber lily" width="600" height="300" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-892" /></a></p>
<p>There is an holographic sticker on the back for the genuine box.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/holographic-gsc.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/holographic-gsc.jpg" alt="holographic gsc" width="600" height="206" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-893" /></a></p>
<p>For the actual figure itself apart from the box, there are 3 tell-tale signs.</p>
<p>Firstly, the base. Pretty obvious once you compare both of them. One comes with Fate / Unlimited Codes and the other without. The shade of the gray is different as well. </p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/base-fate-stay-night.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/base-fate-stay-night.jpg" alt="base fate stay night" width="600" height="225" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-897" /></a></p>
<p>The connector that joins the left hand to the scabbard is also of a different color. The authentic one is clear while the imitation is black.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/hand-saber-lily.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/hand-saber-lily.jpg" alt="hand saber lily" width="640" height="244" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-896" /></a></p>
<p>Lastly, the angle of the head and the ahoge is totally off for the fake. It does however, look alot like Yami from To Love-Ru from this angle. It could just be me though but maybe fans of Yami-chan could do well to take note. ^^</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/hair-saber-lily.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/hair-saber-lily.jpg" alt="hair saber lily" width="600" height="244" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-895" /></a></p>
<p>Personally as a collector, I feel there is no point getting a fake. It just decreases the perception of the original figures which you already have just by having a fake in the midst. If you can&#8217;t afford the original, maybe save up and hope to get it another day rather than spend your money on a fake which you know will never replace the real stuff. </p>
<p>Also, I feel its good to support the company which release such excellent figures by purchasing their items. But by purchasing bootlegs, you are just feeding the bootleggers who obviously do not pay any copyrights etc to the respective copyright holders. On a larger scale, this will just decrease the motivation of the companies to release such well-crafted figures since they know that people will just end up buying the bootleg copy instead and this will be terrible for the entire market. </p>
<p>On a brighter note, if you want to take a look at the original Saber Lily, head over to AkiraHobby <a href="http://akibahobby.net/2009/09/gsc_saber_liliy_review.html" target="_blank">here</a> where there is a fantastic gallery and review of the figure. Terrific work by Goodsmile Company here, can&#8217;t wait for Black Rock Shooter <img src='http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/icon_smile.gif' alt=':)' class='wp-smiley' /> </p>
<h6>Pictures via Goodsmile.info &#038; akibahobby.net</h6>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2010/04/02/top-5-bishoujo-figures-for-2009/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Top 5 Bishoujo Figures for 2009'>Top 5 Bishoujo Figures for 2009</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/16/goodsmile-shiki/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: GoodSmile Shiki'>GoodSmile Shiki</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/28/max-factory-casual-wear-saber-and-shirou-emiya/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Max Factory Casual-Wear Saber and Shirou Emiya Figma'>Max Factory Casual-Wear Saber and Shirou Emiya Figma</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/02/the-fast-the-furious-and-the-fake-saber-lily/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Di:Stage Extension Set 2</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/01/distage-extension-set-2/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/01/distage-extension-set-2/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Thu, 01 Oct 2009 14:36:04 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Figma]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Max Factory]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=873</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Need a case for your figmas? Max Factory has a solution for you and its out in December 2009. Cost will be around 743 Yen and you can order them at either Hobbysearch or at HobbyLink Japan.


Related posts:Di:Stage
Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out
Max Factory Casual-Wear Saber and Shirou Emiya Figma



Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/06/distage/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Di:Stage'>Di:Stage</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/04/alters-yui-pre-order-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out'>Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/28/max-factory-casual-wear-saber-and-shirou-emiya/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Max Factory Casual-Wear Saber and Shirou Emiya Figma'>Max Factory Casual-Wear Saber and Shirou Emiya Figma</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DiStage-Clear-ExSet2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/DiStage-Clear-ExSet2.jpg" alt="DiStage Clear ExSet2" width="600" height="600" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-874" /></a></p>
<p>Need a case for your figmas? Max Factory has a solution for you and its out in December 2009. Cost will be around 743 Yen and you can order them at either <a href="http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10099819" target="_blank">Hobbysearch</a> or at <a href="http://www.hlj.com/product/MAX00014" target="_blank">HobbyLink Japan</a>.</p>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/06/distage/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Di:Stage'>Di:Stage</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/04/alters-yui-pre-order-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out'>Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/28/max-factory-casual-wear-saber-and-shirou-emiya/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Max Factory Casual-Wear Saber and Shirou Emiya Figma'>Max Factory Casual-Wear Saber and Shirou Emiya Figma</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>FREEing Ex:Ride</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/27/freeing-exride/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/27/freeing-exride/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 27 Sep 2009 11:56:16 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=877</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Ex:ride is a set of vehicles created to be used by the figures in Max Factory&#8217;s figma action figure series.

Vehicles that can be ridden by the figma series of figures are on their way, brought to you by FREEing. The first in the new &#8216;ex:ride&#8217; series are a set of Italian-style vintage bikes. There are [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/16/gscs-index-announced/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: GSC&#8217;s Index Announced!'>GSC&#8217;s Index Announced!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/19/pre-order-for-alphard-nendoroid-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out'>Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/22/k-on-release-by-wave/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: K-On! Release by Wave'>K-On! Release by Wave</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/freeing-ex-ride.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/freeing-ex-ride.jpg" alt="freeing ex-ride" width="600" height="600" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-878" /></a></p>
<p>Ex:ride is a set of vehicles created to be used by the figures in Max Factory&#8217;s figma action figure series.</p>
<p><span id="more-877"></span><br />
Vehicles that can be ridden by the figma series of figures are on their way, brought to you by FREEing. The first in the new &#8216;ex:ride&#8217; series are a set of Italian-style vintage bikes. There are a total of five colors to choose from &#8211; pearl white, metallic red, metallic green, metallic yellow and metallic blue, so you can pick whichever suits your figma the best!</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/10099473b2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/10099473b2.jpg" alt="ex:ride bikes" width="600" height="282" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-884" /></a></p>
<p>All the vehicles in the series will have careful details on all their designs, and allow for even more possibilities from the figma world. Many more vehicles are scheduled to be announced soon!</p>
<p>Personally, I think the design is pretty good and the bright colors really stunning. Might actually get a couple just to pose my figmas on them. They are all rather quirky and add a nice touch to the backdrop. </p>
<p>You can make your pre-orders at <a href="http://www.1999.co.jp/search_e.asp?Typ1_c=101&#038;scope=1&#038;urikire=1&#038;andor=0&#038;scope2=0&#038;sortID=0&#038;ItKey=FREEing" target="_blank">HobbySearch</a> here.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>ex:ride Vintage Bikes</strong></span><br />
Release Date: Dec 2010<br />
Scale:  Not to scale<br />
Price: 1,410 Yen<br />
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<br class="_blank" /></p>
<h6>Pictures via Hobbysearch</h6>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/16/gscs-index-announced/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: GSC&#8217;s Index Announced!'>GSC&#8217;s Index Announced!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/19/pre-order-for-alphard-nendoroid-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out'>Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/22/k-on-release-by-wave/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: K-On! Release by Wave'>K-On! Release by Wave</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/27/freeing-exride/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>K-On! Release by Wave</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/22/k-on-release-by-wave/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/22/k-on-release-by-wave/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 22 Sep 2009 11:46:23 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[K-On]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Mio]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PVC]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Wave]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=838</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Wave has just released both these K-On! characters for pre-orders in homage to the beach scene in the show. Yay to fan-service! ^_^

Mio fanboys will undoubtedly be overjoyed when they finally lay their hands on a bikini version of their goddess. Me, I think both these figures look moe and the price is pretty awesome [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/04/alters-yui-pre-order-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out'>Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/04/05/loot-of-the-day/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Loot of the Day'>Loot of the Day</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/02/afa09-press-release-events-highlights/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: AFA09 Press Release + Events Highlights'>AFA09 Press Release + Events Highlights</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Yui.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Yui.jpg" alt="Yui" width="295" height="288" class="alignleft frame size-full wp-image-840" /></a><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Mio.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Mio.jpg" alt="Mio" width="295" height="288" class="frame size-full wp-image-839" /></a></p>
<p>Wave has just released both these K-On! characters for pre-orders in homage to the beach scene in the show. Yay to fan-service! ^_^</p>
<p><span id="more-838"></span><br />
Mio fanboys will undoubtedly be overjoyed when they finally lay their hands on a bikini version of their goddess. Me, I think both these figures look moe and the price is pretty awesome as well, almost the cost of a nendoroid. Its rare nowadays that you can find a PVC at this price point, especially for a popular series. </p>
<p>Yui looks rather awkward at first but she sorts of grow on you with her pose and her &#8216;friendliness&#8217;. As for the Mio figure, she&#8217;s just being herself with her shyness and her coy facial expressions.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/yui2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/yui2.jpg" alt="yui PVC" width="295" height="450" class="alignleft frame size-full wp-image-854" /></a><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/mio2.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/mio2.jpg" alt="mio PVC" width="295" height="450" class="frame size-full wp-image-857" /></a></p>
<p>However, I find the paintwork somewhat lacking, especially in the head region. Both heads look rather badly painted and they look kind of odd. You can see for yourself how the hair looks like one badly molded lump of plastic with horrible joint-lines to boot. However, this could just be due to them being pre-release pictures. The final products might be much much better with an overhaul of the molding design etc. Not a must-get for me in any case as I do not really like them in their swimsuits. If, and a very big IF, Azusa-nyan comes along with this set, I might be sorely tempted. </p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Yui-Head.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Yui-Head.jpg" alt="Yui Head" width="295" height="240" class="alignleft frame size-full wp-image-863" /></a><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Mio-Head.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Mio-Head.jpg" alt="Mio Head" width="295" height="240" class="frame size-full wp-image-864" /></a></p>
<p>Truth be told, I&#8217;m still holding out for the ED PVCs ^^ Will give these 2 a good thought though, the Yui figure beckons me oh so often&#8230;</p>
<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/K-On-ED.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/K-On-ED.jpg" alt="K-On ED" width="600" height="429" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-866" /></a></p>
<p>Both of them are available for pre-order at HLJ and HobbySearch.</p>
<p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Hirasawa Yui Wave Version (PVC Figure)</span></strong><br />
Release Date: Dec 2009<br />
Scale: 1/10<br />
Price: 3,800 Yen<br />
<a href="http://www.hlj.com/product/WAVNF-81" target="_blank">HLJ</a> / <a href="http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10099098" target="_blank">Hobby Search</a><br />
<br class="_blank" /><br />
<strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Akiyama Mio Wave Version (PVC Figure)</span></strong><br />
Release Date: Dec 2009<br />
Scale: 1/10<br />
Price: 3,800 Yen<br />
<a href="http://www.hlj.com/product/WAVNF-82" target="_blank">HLJ</a> / <a href="http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10099099" target="_blank">Hobby Search</a><br />
<br class="_blank" /></p>
<h6>Pictures via HobbySearch &#038; konachan.com</h6>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/04/alters-yui-pre-order-out/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out'>Alter&#8217;s Yui Pre-order Out</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/04/05/loot-of-the-day/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Loot of the Day'>Loot of the Day</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/02/afa09-press-release-events-highlights/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: AFA09 Press Release + Events Highlights'>AFA09 Press Release + Events Highlights</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Pre-order for Alphard Nendoroid Out</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/19/pre-order-for-alphard-nendoroid-out/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/19/pre-order-for-alphard-nendoroid-out/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 19 Sep 2009 15:21:07 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Canaan]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[GoodSmile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nendoroid]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=826</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Alphard nendoroid is out for pre-order. Goodsmile is apparently not letting up its hunt for our wallets&#8230;

To add to the multitudes of figures released or will be released by Goodsmile in the coming months, Alphard from Type-Moon&#8217;s Canaan join the ranks of the nendoroids.
Alphard comes with a grinning face, a calm face and an angry [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/13/alphard-pvc-pictures/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alphard PVC pictures'>Alphard PVC pictures</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/24/canaan-pvc-and-nendoroid/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Canaan 1/8 PVC and Nendoroid'>Canaan 1/8 PVC and Nendoroid</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/08/canaan-figma/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Canaan Figma'>Canaan Figma</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Alphard-Full.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/Alphard-Full.jpg" alt="Alphard nendoroid" width="600" height="600" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-827" /></a></p>
<p>Alphard nendoroid is out for pre-order. Goodsmile is apparently not letting up its hunt for our wallets&#8230;</p>
<p><span id="more-826"></span><br />
To add to the multitudes of figures released or will be released by Goodsmile in the coming months, Alphard from Type-Moon&#8217;s Canaan join the ranks of the nendoroids.</p>
<p>Alphard comes with a grinning face, a calm face and an angry face, presumably when she&#8217;s fighting with Canaan. She has a revolver as well, similar to the <a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/24/canaan-pvc-and-nendoroid" target="_blank">Canaan nendoroid</a>. </p>
<p>I say she does look great when paired up with the Canaan nendoroid in a battle scene. A must get if you already ordered the Canaan nendoroid. Otherwise, it boils down to whether you like the character design or not. Canaan is a pretty good, action-packed anime but its essentially Type-Moon to the core. Some people will like it while others can&#8217;t even sit through 15 minutes of it.</p>
<p>Preorders are open at Hobbysearch <a href="http://www.1999.co.jp/eng/10099468" target="_blank">here</a> and at HLJ <a href="http://www.hlj.com/product/GSC96388" target="_blank">here</a>.</p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Nendoroid Alphard</strong></span><br />
Release Date: Jan 2010<br />
Scale:  Not to scale &#8211; approximately 100mm in height<br />
Price: 3,500 Yen<br />
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<br class="_blank" /></p>
<h6>Pictures via Goodsmile.info &#038; Hobbysearch</h6>


<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/13/alphard-pvc-pictures/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alphard PVC pictures'>Alphard PVC pictures</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/08/24/canaan-pvc-and-nendoroid/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Canaan 1/8 PVC and Nendoroid'>Canaan 1/8 PVC and Nendoroid</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/08/canaan-figma/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Canaan Figma'>Canaan Figma</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/19/pre-order-for-alphard-nendoroid-out/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>2</slash:comments>
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		<title>GoodSmile Shiki</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/16/goodsmile-shiki/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/16/goodsmile-shiki/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 16 Sep 2009 10:49:22 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Gallery]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[GoodSmile]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[PVC]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=818</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
I finally found this figure of Shiki made by GoodSmile Company. It was sold out pretty fast when it was released late last year. I guess even GSC themselves didn&#8217;t realize what a hit they had on their hands.

The highlight of this figure got to be the kimono worn by Shiki. While not being made [...]


Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/13/alphard-pvc-pictures/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alphard PVC pictures'>Alphard PVC pictures</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/02/the-fast-the-furious-and-the-fake-saber-lily/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!'>The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/16/gscs-index-announced/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: GSC&#8217;s Index Announced!'>GSC&#8217;s Index Announced!</a></li>
</ol>]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/P1050066.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/P1050066.jpg" alt="Shiki" width="400" height="557" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-819" /></a></p>
<p>I finally found this figure of Shiki made by GoodSmile Company. It was sold out pretty fast when it was released late last year. I guess even GSC themselves didn&#8217;t realize what a hit they had on their hands.</p>
<p><span id="more-818"></span><br />
The highlight of this figure got to be the kimono worn by Shiki. While not being made of fabric, it looked very realistic under some lighting. The details on the kimono look fantastic as well.</p>
<p>The base is plain and unadorned. I think the overall theme of this figure is just simple and dignified class with a hint of flair. The base fits right in as it doesn&#8217;t take away anything from the figure but adds on to it in an unstated manner.</p>
<p>The katana have some delicate etchings on it, especially on the hilt guard. Its rather fragile though so I&#8217;ll advise people to handle it with care. Overall, a very nice piece for display. </p>
<p>Pictures of the Shiki figure:<br />
<br class="blank"><br />
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<p>Related posts:<ol><li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/13/alphard-pvc-pictures/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: Alphard PVC pictures'>Alphard PVC pictures</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/10/02/the-fast-the-furious-and-the-fake-saber-lily/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!'>The Fast, the Furious and the Fake Saber Lily!!</a></li>
<li><a href='http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/11/16/gscs-index-announced/' rel='bookmark' title='Permanent Link: GSC&#8217;s Index Announced!'>GSC&#8217;s Index Announced!</a></li>
</ol></p>]]></content:encoded>
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		</item>
		<item>
		<title>More di:stages!!</title>
		<link>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/09/more-distages/</link>
		<comments>http://www.alternatesam.com/2009/09/09/more-distages/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 09 Sep 2009 10:56:50 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>AlternateSam</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Figures]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Figma]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://www.alternatesam.com/?p=798</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[
Just came back with more di:stages! Not all of them are for me though.


No related posts.


No related posts.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/stage1.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.alternatesam.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/stage1.jpg" alt="di:stage" width="600" height="450" class="aligncenter frame size-full wp-image-799" /></a></p>
<p>Just came back with more di:stages! Not all of them are for me though.</p>


<p>No related posts.</p>]]></content:encoded>
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