REI ROOM Touhou Doujins (also Taiwan exclusive released items as part of it!)

Speaking of Taiwan event exclusives – Greenwood Doujinshi Sets:

And more of Japan’s biggest gone Taiwan FancyFrontier:

But of course there’s lots of goods & Doujins from Japan event releases like past Comiket as well available

Lots more Doujin Goods, etc. also linked/listed at the doujin market livejournal entry here -  http://doujin-market.livejournal.com/806966.html

Looking forward to your inquiries!

Now as mentioned, due to moving out and trying to arrange things to make it all go along as quick and smooth as possible on rather unusual ways (for me) I also want to declare a sale on pretty much everything (and way more) discussed, reviewed, blogged, whatever here on this blog of mine. So if you’re interest in anything or just want to help me reduce my packages to carry on to Vienna, then just drop me a line! Little hint, due to aiming to make this as quick as possible, I’m verrrry negotiable on terms of pricing for the Doujins, Soft, etc.

MANY THANKS FOR ALL THE FUN HERE!! yours truly littleharlock – an Austrian Otaku ^^

• Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu
Release: 2010/08/13
140 pages

-Content sample shot No.1
-Content sample shot No.2
-Content sample shot No.3
-Content sample shot No.4

Given there is no fancy banner I could link to an artist private/Circle web presence with this time around (at least ot my knowledge), I’d like to pack and get this entry started with some introducing words for those not familiar with the talent in charge of this very special publication released at last year’s summer Comiket. Actually Umakoshi Yoshihiko turned into a famed Animator and especially in recent years through involvement on popular projects ranging from a muliplicity of genre. From hard edged SF like CASSHERN Sins up to Mahou Shoujo where Umakoshi-sensei shined as visual mastermind in charge of hits like Ojamajo Doremi up to the most recent and highly successful Heartcatch PreCure!, everything been represented througout the years on Umakoshi-sensei’s work list. This Animator’s simple yet coevally complicated and highly detailed style that enables smooth and most important vibrant usage/transition for Anime made Umakoshi Yoshihiko range amongst the most oustanding talents in the biz and without a particular Studio boundary either, he showcases to excel at each project he’s been entrusted with.
It’s therefore been no big surprise when fans reported that the formal debut Doujinshi release by Umakoshi, as published via his newly launched Circle BBM last summer, sold out within a mere hour, leading to immense demand (and pricing) for Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu instantly past the event. In case you wonder – no, despite your’s truly having attended Comike78 in person, I did not realize (or better phrased way too late) about this special attendance, hence was confronted with equal horrendous prices a couple of days past Comiket at Akiba Mandarake as well. Why this aspect of the release is considered so totally justified and in order to provide you with my stance over the release in focus for today, let’s take a closer look inside the summerly publication by Umakoshi-sensei’s Circle BBM now. While the majority of Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu is kept in b/w, the Doujinshi opens with full 12 color pages in all their glossy glory! Not that extensive in hinsight of the beyond hundred page count this publication crosses, yet Umakoshi-sensei truely knows how to impress with this sort of commencing things. With absolutely beautiful to stunning artworks througoutly dedicated on the project which been the most recent one this talent worked on and furthermore also been given true lion’s share treatment overall herein, everything starts with Heartcatch PreCure. Apart of the full/actual version of the pink/black outline (with golden shiny title imprint on it) kept cover artwork of Cure Marine and Cure Blossom, some of the most outstanding pieces of opening color artworks this Doujin impressed me so early on with already, are represented with the Dark Cure and Cure Moonlight illustration (キュアムーンライトは最高 だよ!) as well as the lovely Itsuku portrayal with sunset lightning drawing a Cure Sunshine shadow behind him! Also the neat Ikemen Sora student artwork makes this fanboy’s heart beat faster while coevally concludes the color intro part of Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu. Another aspect trhough which this starting color part shines so bright besides Umakoshi’s vibrant drawing goes to the coloration itself, as he makes usage of various different techniques and schemes to present this. From water color paint style to flashy pop coloration like right out of the 70′s (you know this coloring via little color dots, don’t know how else to describe that) all enabling Umakoshi Precure eyecandy per excellence.
After this also the first section starts right at page 15 and that part is dedicated to CASSHERN Sins. One of the striking arguments for me back then, to get ahold of this Doujinshi, over 21 pages are dedicated to present the series’ Opening in all its storyboard greatness. As decent as that is, it sadly remains as almost sole part within Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu focused on the project. Next section starting at page 37 and lasting up to 46 goes to Grappler Baki where Umakoshi-sensei been in charge of Key Animation for 4 episodes and this Doujinshi collecting several of the scene layers/Genga. Of course, this is among the few parts within this release where the Umakoshi esque or distinctive style isn’t fully showcased via the designs themself, yet the vibrant fashion the featured scenes are kept in actually bring forth the trademark of this Animator well I’d say. Another short part within section 2 of this publication collects some more storyboards for PROJECT ARMS, 7 pages in total, another seven for Kimi ni Todoke (Key Animation on episode 5) coevally bringing forth more of Umakoshi style through designs as well I’d say. Plus lastly Mo~tto! Ojamajo Doremi coverage is also part of this section with Genga and sketches scenes out of the movie Kaeru Seki no Himitsu. After these 13 pages in total, the third section within Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu comes up, and this one coevally represents the lion’s share among the Doujinshi – dedicated on Heartach PreCure. Taking up over almost 50 pages in total, he commeces with lots scene Genga originating from the series’ 10th episode (which means besides lovely Blossom and Marine coverage also lots of Dark Moon!!), as well as L/O修正 (retouch/correction) material from this episode. Another major coverage within the PreCure section of this book goes to episode 23, again featuring mostly the L/O Shuusei and therewith also lovely spotlight moved onto Cure Sunshine! Starting at page 127, the fourth section opens with a beautiful chara collage sketch artwork featuring the Doremi girls on it. A bit tricky or misleading though, as this is no specific series focused part and while no title is attached to this time around, the fourth and final section within Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu collects a selected variation of project done for artworks. Such as various poster and CD jacket artworks in their sketch/rough version for Doremi, Hokuto no Ken (Umakoshi-sensei was in charge of Key Animation for the OVA’s Toki-den part) plus lastly little more CASSHERN Sins coverage with rough art for the released Box art as well as DVD jacket rough, all sadly crammed onto 2 pages only. After one ending page that features Box/DVD jacket art for the Berserk Anime, where Umakoshi-sensei actually been Character designer as well as Animation Director for a handful of episodes, therefore a bit surprising how little coverage this work received herein, Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu “already” heads into conclusion with the talent’s (outro) message page.
While this short kept break-up over the content for this BBM release may not let it shine through as sufficient as I’d like to, Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu is truely brimful of awesome content from start ’till the very end. There’s very little to rant over this Comike78 originating publication, other than I wished for a little more, such as Marie & Gali that didn’t receive any coverage herein or a ful Doremi dedicated section, yet these would have required to enrich the Doujinshi with “a good couple” of more pages whilst the book already goes beyond 100+ to begin with. On the by far prevailing upside of this publication, I fully enjoyed the extensive focus on Heartcatch PreCure and that despite your’s trulyentered this release without prior knowledge of the series back when I picked up the Doujinshi. While I consider myself a big Mahou Shoujo fan ever since the days back of a certain Sailor Senshi appared, in recent years I followed the genre with little or fading interest and hence also skipped on Heartcatch PreCure, which *now* I know was a big mistake. It’s this Doujin release which enflamed my interest over the series and actually therewith totally revived/enflamed my fanboyism over Mahou Shoujo (of these scales). Among all the Animator released-by Doujinshi I’m aware of and picked-up back during the summerly installment of Comike, I can say without a doubt that Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu turned out to be the most impressive one overall (and there’s been plenty of tough competition as far as I’m concerned). This stance is founded for a huge part on the talent’s distinctive and unique vibrant style which enables each and every single piece of work collection as conducted herein such energetic look that it’s a real pleasure to go through the 140 pages the eyecandy spreads over! Regardless of whether you’re a fan of one of the particular projects this talent been in charge of or just looking for a stunning and engaging Anime art/Genga collection, let me tell you that Umakoshi Yoshihiko Gengashuu is everything one could ask for and even more hence definitely worth the pricing involved on acquiring this release. While back in summer I yearned for more the moment I finished my first paging through this Doujinshi, gladly meanwhile these wishes turned reality with the follow-up release published via the winter Comike participation of BBM. Therefore (with the parcel including that release on its way) you can be sure that my blogging on terms of Umakoshi Yoshihiko is to be continued for sure!

That said on a total unrelated note I also like to thank people checking out this little blog of mine for the 10,000 (and counting) views given to N-Field since the site switch/relaunch in March last year! アクセス一万のヒットありがとございます！

• sweet pool
Shokai Seisanban
Brand: Nitro+ CHiRAL
Release: 2008/12/19
Genre: AVG

Art: Onitsuka Seeji
Scenario: Fuchii Kabura
Adviser: Urobuchi Gen

-Shokai Seisanban Booklet
-Booklet content sample shot (rough section)

+ Basic Plot Outline:
Returning with a feel of unease to school after he’s been abscence for some time, Sakiyama Youji soon notices that his surrounding there changed. Some, such as his friend and glutton Makoto Mita, welcome Youji’s return. While people like Shironuma Tetsuo, a top-class dutiful and lone wolf at school, suddenly starts approaching Youji for no real reason and that’s not for his liking given our protagonist used to be kind of an introverted student on his own. Things get crazy once Okinaga Zenya, a freaky lout at the Tokyo Suginami ward located school, starts to pick on Youji as well. As if that wouldn’t be enough to make his school return troublesome, it doesn’t take long ’till serious health problems seem to catch up with Youji as well. Even worse for the young man, the excesses of these problems seem to be connected in some twisted way with those people at school who’ve found interest in Youji…

Trying to provide you with a basic outline of sweet pool without dropping major spoilers is really a tougher task than I initially thought it would be. As like to accomplish that without making this Nitro+ CHiRAL project sound like the most craziest creepiest BL Soft ever released…which to some extend it actually *is*. Yet, even with the details of Youji’s troubles (his bloody digestive problems) definitely reaching into realms of bizarre stuff and in some ways gore, I found the concept of sweet pool to range among the most refreshing unique and absolutely surprising BL titles I’ve ever had the pleasure to go through. In fact, as far as I’m aware of, the genre has not faced anything in the veins nor compareable to sweet pool. Hence, on these terms Nitro+ CHiRAL truely stayed faithful to their promise to revolutonize the BL genre through their highly anticipated 3rd project, because you won’t find anything as unconventional the Brand prime scenario writing talent Fuchii Kabura created with sweet pool! To me, that represents a big plus that in some senses also reinforced my convidence that especially this Visual Novel genre is capable to surprise and rise beyond the ever-so-often cliché ridden representatives it’s known for.

While *that* doesn’t necessarily equate with bad either (showcased by some <a href="prime examples of this cliché loaded kind as well) nor am I trying to express that Bishoujo/Galge/Eroge tends to be all *that* more inovative, it’s ideas by writing talents such as Kabura-sensei that truely revive my confidence and faith when it comes to BL gaming. Moreso in terms of sweet pool CHiRAL impressed me big times to truely wowed me by showing just *how* experimental far you can go! And that seen even outside the genre scope, because personally it’s a real pitty if someone “brands” and therefore maybe even avoids this project because of its BL nature as the plot outline in all its facets as featured here makes sweet pool truely a real big Niro+ work in the veins of classics like Saaya no Uta! Which then again ain’t that surprising given that Nitro+ fame Urobuchi Gen been in charge of adviser for sweet pool! So much for the puff pieces of praise yours truly has to express right in the beginning part of my review, now let’s continue with some more critical bits and rants on terms of this category. Because the greatest concept won’t convince if it shows signs of poor execution or even worse is a total failure in this department. Of course, that doesn’t apply to sweet pool, certainly not to such extremes. Yet, I just can’t help it to make note that besides the decent plot and concept CHiRAL came up for it, at some parts sweet pool felt like it could have acchieved way more than it’s been treated as. My main gripe on these terms goes to the character development, which really felt quite rushed to non-existant in some cases, primarily everthying except the main pairing of interest and spotlight – Youji and Tetsuo, while even those two didn’t receive quite as decent executed indepth characterization as I felt they *could* have. Maybe that impression of mine received further manifestation by the overall length of sweet pool which is anything from real long and that’s coming from someone who’s normally taking months to cross through a Soft of average length (I completed this one within less than a couple of weeks which is absolute super-speedy for my terms!). Don’t get me wrong though, the character development featured is top-notch and also supports the earlier brought up statement that Kabura-sensei really crafted a cast that goes so absolutely against mainstream or genre cliché stereotypes. Even some of the more obvious “Youji interested parties” are capable to surprise in ways I didn’t expect in my wildest wet BL dreams…Yandere Makoto is just…brilliant and I take a deep bow over Kabura-sensei doing an own Makoto “Bad end” with the awesomely creepy “The Hunger” sub-route sweet pool features! However, mainly due to the lack of time in context with a quite manageable cast size and also main focus (Youji x Tetsuo) showing up early on, it felt like such decent moments of characterization fell far too short, making some moments (and resolutions) in terms of the main lead even a bit too unempathizeable as far as I’m concerned, while I truely loved the characters as such (especially once for a very rare change it turned out I totally vowed for the main couple in a BL Soft – Tetsuo is just too damn adorable with his attitude!). As hinted along so far, also sweet pool is equipped with various routes, or better phrased endings one can debouch into. A total number of six such different endings are available while a couple of them could be considered “dead/bad ends” and these are the mere only, where the lead (Youji) is not ending up with Tetsuo on rather cruel crazy and partwise creepy yet genius ways. If you tend to prefer alternating pairings though, you may also consider it a flaw that the main/overall progress sweet pool takes on in all its routes is very straightforward, meaning that it’s all about Youji and Tetsuo with the other two “involved parties” of their surrounding making a drastic interference for “their” conclusion with Youji. Hence if you hope for some happy ever after Makoto x Youji or Zenya x Youji scenarios, you’re going to be fooled (in my case especially with the former, due to my pretty bad Yanderekko fetish, though absolutely not feeling left down a bit!) big times by how Kabura-sensei makes those possible through “The Hunger” (Makoto sub-route/end) and “VLG” (Zenya sub-route/end). Admitted though, personally I wished for some supporting cast pairing routes (Zenya and Kitani..such subroute would have worked out without interfering with the main focus at all!) as well, hence to some extend this linear told plot progress of sweet pool is minded as it also worked against the non-standard approach taken by CHiRAL on so many other scales of the project. In defense to this straightforward progress of sweet pool though, the various ways this main pairing is handled through remaining four different scenarios to Youji x Tetsuo left me a satisfied feeling as the bittersweet conclusions (with yours truly joining the general opinion that the bonus grand end “Miracles may” definitely rules them all) to the plot is anything else but static!

+ Graphics / Visuals:
Another trend Nitro CHiRAL commenced with this third project of theirs, is that new staff been brought on board in case of some categories. Such as the visuals, which up to then been represented exclusively through CHiRAL’s Tatanakana as main artist, now featured a total new face of this Brand. Not going the path to enable others out of the visual CHiRAL crew a rise to main artist either (though on that note it’s interesting to see Mimori Shinobu been given that treatment for the exclusive CHiRAL MOBiLE release Itsuwari no Alkanet..that is for cruel national network connected reasons Japan exclusive), sweet pool marks the debut of Onitsuka Seeji as graphical mastermind in charge. I decided to go into artist specific details and backgrounds for a(nother long planned yet ever delayed) write-up dedicated on this talent’s work before crossing paths with Nitro+ CHiRAL, hence I’ll just stick with impressions on Onitsuka-sensei’s work done for this project. Because as simple as it is, also in these terms sweet pool turns out anything else but standard and in fact while the Brand distinctive attributes of high quality striking visual presentation are represented, it’s also the graphics/visuals through which sweet pool sets itself apart from a majority out of the genre. Onitsuka Seeji combines the Bishounen look by redifining it to an unique adultish, in case of some even Biseinen (Kitani…*nuff said!* ^^) appearances, that enables the cast of this Soft a refreshing look in the midst of cute Bishounen (sometimes with even more girlish attributes than good for) as widely featured amongst the genre. The complex style of Onitsuka-sensei which totally goes along how Tatanakana once defined it for CHiRAL works, contrary to my expectations truely worked along so well also on terms of Tachi E and story visual presentation flow that it’s pure eyecandy unleashed. Of course the highlights at this category are the rewarding Event CG artworks in all their detailed beauty while the total amount of them is something that brings me back to the overall length of this Soft…as also here, especially due to the high quality sweet pool features in these fields too, I for one wished for more than there ultimately was made available once completed with all paths available. That said, the respective gallery as part of the Omake features was rather misleading in that it had a few more “empty” Event CG boxes left even once all pages are in fact completed (and I really spent quite some time figuring out whether I missed some sub-route or different/alternative scenary due to that). Besides Onituska Seeji’s work, also pretty much all other aspects of this BL Soft’s visual presentation are of top-notch quality, with Nitro+ obligatory love for when it comes to details such as effect designs and executions been part of sweet pool. Therefore this category leaves no rant that is specifically pointed towards the presentation as such, rather than the already noted one pointed towards the total length of this work.

+ Music / CV:
On regards of audio, there are a few elements I actually ended up with mixed feelings. The score itself as such was partwise genius suiting, while because of that, it felt like a bit more BG music variation wouldn’t have hurt here (again, probably connected to the total length not leaving as much space and energy left for CHiRAL to come up with a real wide-ranging sound repertoire). However, especially when it comes to vocal pieces of music as represented for theme or closing tune, CHiRAL’s Sound Label and vocalists are granted pure pleasure for the ears, with title of frontline striking songs definitely going to “I’m in blue” (that made me love Pale Green) and “Miracles may” (blame it on Itou Kanako and her angelic Uta Hime vocal skills!). The character voice department also left me with mixed feelings. While there’s per se nothing wrong with the cast, all delivering a great job and overall this being fully voiced (also sub-characters and non-visable classmates male *and* female!) makes a big plus in my book for CHiRAL’s efforts there, somehow I felt that at parts the voices of the main cast themself was a bit tough to tell apart, especially in case of the focus pairing, because both Youji and Tetsuo had a similar at moments quite lethargic way to communicate with each other. I wouldn’t really consider that a real flaw, as the job by the various Seiyuu of sweet pool clearly not leaving an opportunity to find such. As mentioned though, it’s still the selection that partwise leaves such impression making it a bit hard to follow and hence fully enjoy each and every moment on those terms.

+ Ero Content:
To be honest, as much as I considered myself fascinated by Onitsuka Seeji’s art the very moment on I witnessed about this 3rd CHiRAL project, I just couldn’t help myself to enter sweet pool with a feeling that for hot and sweaty BL Ero action, this artist may not been the best decision to go for. I’m still not sure why I took such approach, but somehow it connects to the complexity of Onitsuka-sensei’s style that made me enter sweet pool with such feeling (plus, CHiRAL isn’t really the kind of Brand who’s advertising their releases with much details on these terms promo CG wise either). Much to my delight though, that rather unfounded stance/bias was totally proven wrong the very first time Youji undergoes some smutty treatment (or better said initiated such by himself at the chem classroom ^^). Onitsuka-sensei definitely shows great skills to visualize adultish moments on quite tasty manners (of course, if I would have known more background details about this artist prior to sweet pool there wouldn’t been any room for such an approach to begin with) while scenario writer Kabura Fuchii pulling off the exact same on these scenes and their staging as well. In fact also here I was surprised how smooth the Ero scenes were integrated into the plot. Besides the prominent flaw of length also applying to these scenes themself though, the quality is amazing. While this certainly will strengthen the “he’s a perv” impression I’m afraid some readers of this little blog of mine already associate me with, I can’t be helped but to call the Ero scenes of sweet pool mighty delicious made! From the portrayal, the variation (nothing that goes beyond the thin borderline of tastefullness..at least not to such extend as already featured for its main plot!) up to the very sounds (not sure how to state this…but certain “action effect sounds” added that make these scenes so much more…realistic hot) CHiRAL showcased lots of detail and effort to equip sweet pool with top-notch Ero content, even though the whole suffers from the length problems of this Soft as well (btw. may I throw in the “me wants Kitani x Zenya” note at this point as well?).

+ System:
Another element through which sweet pool stands out even beyond the borders of “genre comrades” on much too rare occassion goes to the System category featured.
Contrary to the ever so often repeated “all basics featured but nothing more than that”-line, Nitro+ CHiRAL invested lots of effort to make sweet pool unique also on these aspects. Most outstanding part of the system to make note of right away, goes to the method decisions alongside the plot progress are made here. Instead of the widely represented formula to make such via selectable answers or actions, CHiRAL calls for the basic human insticts to decide for one which path to go. Sounds strange, well but let’s see how to explain this a bit more detailed. Whenever one reaches a specific decision point during the plot, it fades into a stylish literaly pulsating screen that overlays the actual scenary. Two edges on that pulsating screen change are then becoming available. A blue colored side, which is called　「理性」 (reason/senses) and a red one, naturally the counterpart 「本能」 (instinct). By selecting out of the two one “decides” the progress and way of reactions the protagonist Youji takes alongside the plot and as can be guessed, ultimately it comes down to which ending your “instincts or mind” will lead you to. While this basically is a genius idea to render something obligatory for the media of its kind, sometimes to me the execution of this decision feature felt a bit random in order to fully complete through sweet pool whilst partwise it really worked out well with sense (logic) behind the outcome one slips into by these decisions (such as taking “reason” everytime). Despite, I’d give CHiRAL a big fat plus for bringing up something fresh new for this project of theirs and that’s something other Brands would be adviced to try every once in a while as well! But talking of System there’s far more to what qualifies sweet pool as gem amongst Visual Novels. Getting tired of the basic skip feature that still forces you to view the already trusted scenaries in fast fowards mode? Well, here comes Nitro+ CHiRAL with it’s alternative so-called “High velocity skip” feature that is, next to a regular skip feature, ready to browse through the events by fading into twice the speed, high velocity so to say, and enables even faster progress to continue straight to the decision points within this game, even though the average time/speed also depends on the break/events inbetween these moments that require you to choose between instict/reason (so it’s not like you’re moving straight on to the next point but quicker than normal skip mode). That’s something appreciated in the course of checking other routes/paths that this Soft offers, without having to fast forward go through everything (or from your last save) once again. Besides these two very noteworthy aspects of sweet pool the Omake is also really nice though things go back to more basic territory there. One noteworthy element maybe which appears upon completion that is not so standard goes to the “liner notes”. That extra is actually a link which will open a webbrowser’s window leading one to a secret Nitro+ CHiRAL Omake website whereat messages (mostly of congratulating nature) by the whole staff of sweet pool are featured starting from scenario writer Fuchii Kabura over adviser Urobuchi Gen (!) to main artist Onitsuka Seeji and all the other graphic and music staff involved here. Absolutely appreciated extra I found. As for the actual “Extra” category available once completed with sweet pool it brings me to the previously noted “every basics represented” statement, with the CG library (misleading a bit as mentioned before due to its total CG account VS. clear window space for these indicated), a “Recollection Library” where besides the memorable and tasty Ero scenes, also the various epilogue/ED moments are collected for repeat experience pleasure (also misleading except I really missed something no guide could clear me up on either *the grand ED final all-cast CG is the real last one or?*) plus a “Media library” with all the pieces of BG score plus songs (opening theme and various ED vocal tracks) as well as the opening movie and also a sweet pool Promotion Movie. Summed up on terms of System Nitro+ CHiRAL made everything basic represented yet spiced up the formula with stuff that is anything else but typical showing the Brand distinctive pioneer spirit in these regards as well.

+ Packaging:
Now reaching the surface, the packaging Nitro+ CHiRAL did for sweet pool. The so-titled 初回生産版 (Shokai Seisanban – firstpress edition) this Soft was specified to come along with a special packaging plus mini rough-collection including Manual. Well, the packaging itself is sort of a standard DVD Digi-pack kept in a slipcase that looks nice but not really something I’d associate with “special made” package though. While the so-called “mini rough-collection incl. Manual” really is just that – a booklet manual that includes 7 pages of Event CG rough art (not full page size either, but two scenes in rough or better said line art take sharing one) besides b/w printed chara introduction and Soft specific information. In short, the packaging of sweet pool is kept rather unspectacular and I wouldn’t go beyond efforts nor costs to obtain the now actually sold-out Shokai Seisanban of it for the sake of connected “bonus” only.

+ Overall Impression:
Now as for some conclusive words concerning this latest BL Soft venture of mine with Nitro+ CHiRAL’s third project, what’s left for me to say? As expressed in detail above, sweet pool in many ways held what it’s been promised / advertised as by the Softbrand in charge – an exceptional gem which truely breathed in a fresh wind to the BL genre, yeah, to some extend even redefining it. On the other hand, it’s especially because of the flaws contained, which come down to length (though it *seems* as if Kabura-sensei took the feedback by fans ranting over the Brand’s former project been just too long serious?) and partwise shacky execution of the utmost mesmerizing basic concept and plot, that these are moreso minded as they stand in the way to enable sweet pool genre masterpiece status without any doubts. As far as I’m concerned Nitro+ CHiRAL still acchieved such a rank for the mere try on something totally new that largely succeeded on so many levels despite its handicaps. Therefore my stance on sweet pool ends up largely positive to really impressed. Nitro+ CHiRAL and all in front there Brand main writing talent Fuchii Kabura showcased that the BL genre doesn’t need to restrict itself to tiresome cliché settings, plot nor protagonists at all. Especially through works such as sweet pool this famed but ever-so-often underestimated Nitro+ lives up as one of the most experimental Softhouses out there, not narrowing their scope on genre or target audience as the recommendation for sweet pool applies even if you normally tend to avoid the genre itself.

• Anniversary & Memorial
Release: 2008/12/28
11 pages (all color)

-Content sample shot No.1
-Content sample shot No.2

Without exaggeration Anniversary & Memorial represented one of the most sensational Doujin publications dedicated on CODE GEASS ~Lelouch of the Rebellion~ released back at the winter installment of Comiket (Comike75) in 2008. Reason which leads to this conclusion relates to the talent in charge of this celebrative titled Doujinshi – Yuki Sakou. While this name probably isn’t an instantly recognizeable one, that maybe different for those trusted to SUNRISE’s CODE GEASS, as Sakou-sensei was largely involved on the Anime project on various scales of visual presentation. Besides in-between animation and 2nd key animator, she also was in charge of opening animation and (chief) animation director for a good couple out of both season’s episodes. And as it turned out at Comike75, CODE GEASS represented a dear enough project of hers in order to launch a Doujin Circle with the rather suiting name of Roro Shoutai (ロロ小隊 – Roro platoon) on top and present us independent goodness based on this work with the celebrative Anniversary & Memorial. Before heading into details for the content, it’s noteworthy to drop a few lines over the publication format itself. Because this is not your “typical Offset” release at all, in fact, the debut work by Roro Shoutai features no binding or the likes of it at all. Instead and much to my initial surprise upon arrival, Anniversary & Memorial is kept in untypical A3 dimension while the the “content” itself being sheets! More precisely expressed, this Doujin release consists of 11 illustration sheets including the plain cover sheet that features an interesting paper structure, similar to those of a drawing block, and contains a short-kept Maegaki (pre-face message) by the artist on its flipside. These starting words are also the sole comments Sakou-sensei expressed within her release, which means that each of the individual artworks it comes along with are left completely “untouched” clear. That again enables a pretty impressive artistical presentation supported by the format (A3 sized art sheets) and of course the CODE GEASS eyecandy Yuki Sakou came up with for this publication. This also leads to the focus itself, which I hopefully let shine through during the intro part of today’s entry, is completely focused at the male cast out of CODE GEASS. So, if you’re looking for Doujin goodness based on this project and presented by staff members with female CODE GEASS chara portrayal, I’m afraid to tell you, that you’ve got to look further (there actually *is* independent Doujin goodness by talents which were involved on CG out!) because Anniversary & Memorial is theme-wise kept Bishounen/Seinen only. Not that *I* would complain at all, since this been one of my crucial reasons to get ahold of the release once I found out about it anyways.
Now let me continue this write-up with a couple of notes dedicated on the content of this Roro Shoutai publication. Getting that done via the ever-so-often a small list style description for the goodness Sakou-sensei presents.
- Roro x Lelouch romance first: How else could a Roro Shoutai release commence than with the pairing of these two? In fact this particular coupling been given a whole lot of focus througout the artworks Anniversary & Memorial consists of. While varying in style and “frankness” this starting illustration features a romantical cute setting of Roro holding out to the muffler/tissue of Lelouch’s outfit.
- Roro x Lelouch romance second: Another one which ends up on the cute romantic side of paring, with Lelouch taking a nap whilst Roro watches/looks down on sleeping Lelouch.
- Roro x Lelouch sweet mess: The first quite suggestive posing/theme here. Contrary to previous artworks it features a worked-out background (the others had some stylish one-colored flower pattern as BG art) with over-sized candy and cookies as setting while pants and shirt open Lelouch with an almost naked but Apron wearing Roro who’s got his face covered in what appears to be whipping cream from the sweets. Quite hot and unexpected refreshing past the starting “restrained” artworks herein.
- Roro x Lelouch monochrome: Bringing up another artistical technique Sakou-sensei did a b/w kept almost sketch-like illustrated take on Lelouch and Roro both on a couch, while Lelouch watches Roro sleeping on his limbs. Cute once again.
- Roro x Lelouch romance third: Another cute one to go for – Lelouch hugs Roro from behind with a pink transparent muffler, whilst Roro starts blushing.
- Schneizel x Kannon: Now *that’s* a whole different topic altogether. Not only does the pairing once change to these two Biseinen I fully adore, but also the theme itself is quite sexy. A slightly open-shirted Schneizel feeling up on Kannon’s hair (he who apparently took off Schneizel’s necktie!) and in his other hand Schneizel holds the bare foot of Kannon. Yummy and also my favorite out of the CODE GEASS eyecandy Yukie Sakou presented for this release altogether!
- Roro x Lelouch romance fourth: Remember that pink muffler? It’s back with Lelouch and Roro asleep on it. Cute but a little bit repeative on terms of theme, yet the artwork itself is of such great quality leaving little left to rant there!
- Angelic Roro: That’s my favorite take on Roro and once for a change he’s given solo treatment, with the illustration featuring Roro in his black uniform having angel wings and also holding a green cellphone (with cute strap).
- Roro x Lelouch romance fifth: Probably the most cutest out of them all. Roro sitting in boy fashioned suite (stockings and baby-blue short pants) on suited Lelouch’s knees.
- Roro x Lelouch the angel: Now back to a bit more risque and therewith lovely theme of this prevailing couple. Fully dressed Lelouch but angel winged (fully naked in contrast ^^) Roro flying towards Lelouch…that’s another favorite though not topping the subtle yet obvious erotism of Schneizel x Kannon in my view. Yet a wonderful concluding piece of Roro Shoutai goodness.
As one can probably deduce from this listing, with 10 illustration sheets in total comprising the content of Anniversary & Memorial, the debut publication by Roro Shoutai is anything else but extensive on terms of content. Also on the ranting side of nitpicks, to me it felt like a little bit too one-sided on the pairing Yukie Sakou conducted here, as everything except one artwork is dedicated to Roro and Lelouch (contrary especially if you’re a fan of these two characters, you’re in for a big treat I’d say!). So, my rants on regards of this release could be summed up with “a little more content and variety”. Yet, a much more prevailing impression this release left me with is the quality aspects conducted by Sakou-sensei for this very first Doujin release by Roro Shoutai. A big plus as far as I’m concerned goes to the unique style she decided to present this goodness through, as it totally enables splendid art showcase (while on another nitpick, once taken out it’s clear plastic sealing shops sold this release in, it’s rather tough to hold the sheets together due to the lack of any binding). Also another striking argument for this particular release goes to the general focus, some may call it genre, this publication is aiming for. While it’s absolutely nothing new that animators are also represented amongst Doujin spheres (heck, in fact whole Anime studio’s have a Doujin life besides in some cases *cough* GAINAX *cough*), the number of such talents doing BL centric or inspired works are mere few at best. Hence also besides all publication specific up’s and downside elements, I’d add a special plus to Yukie Sakou’s “pioneer spirit” there with this Circle project of hers. Regardless if you’re a big fan of CODE GEASS or not (here I have to admit that I count myself into the latter category as well), Anniversary & Memorial is a magnificent and unique publication altogether. That whilst not totally flawless makes a regretless acquisition which I’m hoping to see more facing release sooner or latter (despite the time that passed by since the event it’s been brought out for).

• Subarashiki Hibi ~Furenzoku Sonzai~
Tokusou Shokaiban
Brand: KEROQ
Release: 2010/03/26
Genre: AVG

-Official Artworks
-Official Artworks content sample shot (NSFW)
-Shagaihi
-Shagaihi backside

Art: Motoyone | Kagome | Suzuri | karory
Scenario / Produce / Plan: Sukaji
Sub Scenario: Ayane | Fujikura Kenichi | Chitose
Sound: szak | ryo | PIXELBEE | H.B STUDIO

+ Basic Plot Outline:

“Down the Rabbit-Hole” ~ 「空と世界」の物語
Minakami Yuki – a young literate woman with a partwise slacking attitude and pretty bad (name) memory is the main protagonist within “Down the Rabbit-Hole”, the starting point to KEROQ’s Subarashiki Hibi. One day while on her way home she encounters a girl who’s throwing stuffed animals from the top of a mansion’s roof – Takashima Zakuro. Up to then, Yuki had a peaceful everyday’s life together with her Osananajimi the Wakatsuki sisters – Tsukasa, the gentle and kind (cute) type and Kagami, the Tsunderekko out of the duo. This shall change with the meeting of this strange girl who’s seeks the “day to return to the sky” and requests help from Yuki, eventually moving into her household offering her duties as Maid there and causing some hilarious uproar with that…
“Down the Rabbit-Hole II” chronologically moves back to start – 12th July 2012. Events are once again portrayed via the perspective of Minakami Yuki. Also this time around she has a rather weird encounter with fellow student Takashima Zakuro, who ends up to kiss Yuki and acts as if she knows her better whilst our lead lady here can’t even remember her name. Interrupted by two annoyed appearing girls whom Zakuro apparently arranged an appointment with that day, a puzzled Yuki is left back. This incident gains even more importancy to Yuki when the follow-up day at school the shocking news arrives that Zakuro and two friends of her committed suicide by jumping off a mansion’s roof at the evening the day before! Upon further investigation by the young tough lady on regards of Takashima Zakuro, Yuki soon finds out that the cheerful girl that left such strong impression on her the day before she killed herself, went through serious bullying at school. There’s little time for Yuki though to delve deeper into the truth behind this Zakuro bashing conducted by a few students, because from the day this incident was announced, everything seems to turn crazy at school when Mamiya Takuji – also up to then a seriously bullied Otaku – freaks out in classes announcing the world’s end with the “final/end-sky” (終ノ空) forthcoming on 20th July 2012…

“It’s my own Invention” 「終わりと始まり」の物語
Another reset to 12th July 2012 from another perspective – Mamiya Takuji starring in Subarashiki Hibi chapter 2 “It’s my own Invention”. The bullied Otaku who seeks the dark isolation by crafting a secret hideout underneath the drained school’s swimming pool. Facing details of the treatment Takuji undergoes at school, one can somewhat relate to him trying to evade his fellow classmates and along his summerly efforts to transport stuff (Manga) from his home to the hideout, he also has an encouter with mysterious Takashima Zakuro. As the girl is also trying her best to avoid the bullies at school and is about to be caught by them, usually unsocial Takuji sees no other chance but to help her revealing the details of his hidden wonderland to the girl. While it appears at first, as if the lonesome youngster found some company in Zakuro, soon the day arrives when the teacher enters the classroom with bad news about Takashima Zakuro and two of her friends. This is when things turn upside down crazy for Takuji as well and caught in a state of mind where reality and illusion is hard to tell apart from each other, the young man soon turns into the savior who’ll preach and lead people to the sky…

“Looking-glass Insects” 「文学少女と化学少女」の物語
At a rooftop Takashima Zakuro once meets a boy whom she soon will bear affection towards. A poet, philosopher and literate young man who leaves a striking impression on the lady – Mamiya Takuji. A welcomed escape for Zakuro who’s going through hell at school. Together with her friend Tachibana Kimika the two girls are the main target of classmate tyrants missing no single opportunity to make them feel miserable. Her random encounter with Takuji turn into a highlight for Zakuro caught inside her loneliness, yet it doesn’t take the girl long to notice that there’s something odd with Mamiya-kun. “Looking-glass Insects” aims focus at reflecting the final days left in the life of Takashima Zakuro…

“Jabberwocky” 「救世主と英雄」の物語
Yuuki Tomosane is the “destroyer” (破壊者) in the world about to face the ending sky. Aiming to stop the self-proclaimed saviour (Takuji Mamiya) he’ll become a hero for the sake of protecting the girl as promised long time ago.

“Which Dreamed It” 「兄と妹」の物語
Mamiya Hasaki – the girl who waits for brothers return. For years she waits that this day as promised would arive…

“Jabberwocky II” 「向日葵と坂道」の物語
Finally the story that is the starting point to all. A brother and his sister. A memory from distant days. The starting tale to conclude the ending sky…

While in the very beginning – “Down the Rabbit-Hole” first part – Subarashiki Hibi appears to be yet another harem-type Galge with lots of slice of life, yet with the twist to make the main protagonist a female of Kuurukei kind, that impression is literaly crashed once going for the second half of this chapter. Upon reflection it felt like reason for this rather contrary light tone of the start is not for fillers sake at all, even though back then some moments of it (i.e. the Osama Game) dragged on for a bit, but more like a wish/dreamful reality for Yuki. That stance receives somewhat of a back-up during the end of this arc when Zakuro raises the question towards Yuki (along the conclusion to the Wakatsuki sister sub-routes) whether she enjoys (to continue) this wonderful everyday’s life. What all appeared so peaceful and perfect turns nightmare during the second half of this chapter and therewith revealing real grounds of the scenario this Soft is set at. Along the road of Minakami Yuki’s self-set quest to find out the truth behind the events occuring at school as the days ’till Mamiya’s proclaimed end of the world will arrive, more and more questions and mysteries arise. It doesn’t help the puzzling situation once Yuki encounters another strange figure in the play – Otonashi Ayana – causing way more confusion than to really assist or even solve things for her.
This is were the next chapter telling the more or less exact same events portrayed from a different perspective enters the play. Even though the basics are known by then, KEROQ scenario writting mastermind Sukaji not only acchieved to succeed at but instead redefined such story telling method as far as I’m concerned.“It’s my own Invention” has some of those explanations prepaired for questions Yuki was left with while coevally adding new mysteries to it through the eyes of Mamiya Takuji. In the course of it the boy who’s from Yuki’s perspective gone nuts with the death of Takashima Zakuro, is introduced and one’s exposed on much frothright manners what sort of treatment and life the young Otaku endures at school, turning the merciless bastard from the previous chapter to some extend a real pitful yeah partwise sympathic person. Trapped within (in)sanity one does not know for certain whether Takuji has truely gone mad or if he’s the savior as claimed by himself along the progress of “It’s my own Invention” and despite the bizarre outbursts of this scenario (Riruru), it’s due to the craze confronted herein I take a deep bow over the genius of Sukaji. Speaking of which also besides the overlying heavy literature references Sukaji kept Subarashiki Hibi in, Otaku aimed notes are also represented during this particular chapter as well. Personally the most interesting bunch of remarks expressed by Takuji herein besides literature and thesis of Wittgenstein, Rostand, Lewis Carroll, etc. though involving Lovecraft and Norse mythology on which Sukaji already showed his heavy interest in back during MAKURA’s Supre~me Candy. Another mesmerizing aspect about this different perspective firstly showcased through “It’s my own Invention” goes to how different the events and protagonists are approached by. Mainly refering at this point to the involvement of Otonashi Ayana and better phrased the reception by Takuji over this girl’s appearance. In contrast to how Yuki tried to figure out what she was hinting all the way through, Ayana with her unchainged precocious attitude is not such a welcomed entity latter on in both “It’s my own Invention” as well as “Looking-glass Insects” while especially during the conclusion of the former, she’s been approached as enemy trying to interfere with Takuji’s goals. Regardless of situation and approach, Ayana on the other hand though obviously has her fun with the people in her surrounding and at this point I must officially declare to be in love with this girl, especially once completed the final “Tsui no Sora II” route of Subarashiki Hibi I can’t help but consider her perfection. The third chapter “Looking-glass Insects” not only continues the awe of this Soft but moreover I considered its placement so perfectly done. Zakuro Takashima’s decision to quit her own life was the catalyst event to initiate Tsui no Sora, yet given that all chapters thus far remained pretty vague as to what led the cute contained girl to such drastic move, I was more than ready to enter this strand at last. That is content wise even stronger stuff than what Takuji experienced during “It’s my own Invention”. In fact, at the conclusion of Zakuro’s story in its main route, it felt like it’s impossible to go through such experiences without any grave mental damages/scars left). Despite the Denpa volume increased, “Looking-glass Insects” felt even more mesmerizing on several scales, as besides shedding light on Zakuro Takashima’s motivations (the end of it was so totally unexpected judged Yui’s encounter with the three girls!), it did great work on revealing or better said pushing forward secrets that were merely hinted during the previous two arcs of SubaHibi thus far. These to be formally expressed by “Jabberwocky”, the route that initiated the road to the big conclusion. I for one fully disagree with people saying that the revelations this arc starts out with, seems like KEROQ tried to “throw out all at once”, because as progressing through the story of the “destroyer”, those elements that were visable especially during the previous arc confirmed on quite clever ways Sukaji now meticulously shapes the mass of revealed secrets into the main story, dating long before the present time events occured yet kept in direct correlation to them. The portrayal of Yuuki Tomosane as well as the girl he promised to protect – Mamiya Hasaki – combined with the return of Minakami Yuki was handled that decently, it still amazes me how Sukaji pulled this of here. During the brief scenes Tomosane had an appearance before, always on direct / brutal collision course with Takuji somehow felt so out of place back then, but needless to say that these moments suited so perfectly in retrospect. Specifically making a break at this point as well as sticking to the official pieces of story information released by KEROQ, given that I try hard to stay faithful to the “spoilers included but to a minimum”-promise expressed in relates of this Soft earlier today. Summarized there’s also little left for me to say about the scenario Sukaji & KEROQ came up for Subarashiki Hibi. Genius to epic work would probably describe the job they’ve done on this best, while I think that regardless of what I’m expressing at this point, it certainly won’t do it justice as deserved. While personally speaking Sukaji already won this fanboy’s heart through his other mainly MAKURA related works thus far, I guess it’s this return to Tsui no Sora that makes him as comfortable to craft something as epic as Subarashiki Hibi. With a main focus on painstaking detailed worked-out chapters, Sukaji-sensei truely acchieved to craft something that I’m certain can’t be repeated nor done as wonderful as this writing talent managed. Not to repeat myself though, but the method Sukaj-sensei produced the different people’s perception of their surrounding and events occuring there, is simply put a masterpiece.

+ Graphics / Visuals:
It requires a mere glimpse at the credited talents to deduce how well Subarashiki Hibi does on regards of visual presentation I’d say. The KEROQ/MAKURA staff is known as squad working joint to bring forth awe, so this is not taking an halt when it comes to graphics here either. Of course a lot happened ever since the release of this Brand’s 3rd project (MOEKAN) such as former staff members (2C=GALORE, Mizusawa Mimori) leaving (in case of the former it’s minori he moved on to), but the core remained and moreso returned for this latest project by KEROQ. Hence also in these fields SubaHibi shines bright unlike anything else (at least, as far as I’m concerned). On the unique side of things, an aspect through which especially this Softhouse stands out, is that, despite these many talents involved with each of them featuring some quite diversified style, they all work together so perfectly balanced resulting in an absolutely smooth grand outcome. That this seems to be KEROQ staff philosophy shows also with Subarashiki Hibi to which also a new face been sourced out from their Sisterbrand as famed karory, formerly known as MAKURAnian who debuted at Supre~me Candy, joined the core staff consisting of Motoyone, Suzuri and Kagome. Also writting talent Sukaji on rare occassion (nowadays at least) contributed to the graphical side of his project, most obviously visable at sub-characters such as Iwata or the Bar’s Master (and I *think* some of the sky shot background art carries his style as well). That said, the level of detail and effort invested on this project is of sheer amazing scales. Besides the total amount of Event CG being rather high (about the dosage as previously MAKURA produced), there’s so much love coming from every other element of the visual presentation – the wonderful Tachi E, the refined worked out settings and background art, the shocking Denpa moments (bloody Zakuro..kudos to Yoshida Seiji at this point for that coloration!)..I could go on like this praysing with no end in sight, but that’s not efficient for reading sake of this write-up. Only one thing which I planned to point out at this category of the review, because it totally wowed me all over again. It’s certainly not fair to name one specific talent who’s work on SubaHibi stick out most, that’s in fact not possible either. Yet, both Motoyone and Suzuri exceeded my wildest expectations (on a personal random sidenote they left such striking impression on me that the two were the among the few and first KEROQ-kei artists I had to line-up for last summer at Comike ^^ at this point be warned that some major KEROQ/SubaHibi blogging is planned to follow the next couple of months once I get this write-up finished) and especially the pretty serious Ayana fetish of mine I can blame for much extend on Motoyone (now, why was there no Ayana Dakimakura Set released again, KEROQ?). Another noteworthy element out of the amazing rich and wide-spreading graphical/visual world SubaHibi is represented right at the end of each arc, mainly refering to the various ED each of the main chapter branches feature. Accompanied by sheer wonderful music, more on that latter though, these bring along special artistical contribution such as independent talent duet with his fascinating watercolor style in charge of the abstract and coevally fascinating art for the “Looking-glass Insects” ED. All of this led me once again to the conclusion that KEROQ most definitely did not shy to aim for grand things with this project of theirs.

+ Music / CV:
It feels hard to touch upon a category where KEROQ not outdid themself with Subarashiki Hibi. Hence it won’t lead to surprise you that also the audio side of this project left a positive striking impression on me, as much as that I had to pick-up the Soundtrack at KEROQ’s booth back at Akiba DenkiGuyMatsuri3 this summer. No wonder either, given the Sound staff from MAKURA namely ryo (I *still* wonder whether it’s penname coincidence or if it’s *the* ryo) took over for this project (while former staff like Blasterhead turned into an independent and now Visual Art’s related musician ever since the MOEKAN days) and also in these fields new talents were brought on board, such as szak, while vocal-wise the same has been conducted with PIXELBEE as MAKURA prooved Sound Unit working next to (Doujin) musician Hana on the various themes (of course featuring lyrics crafted by mastermind Sukaji as well) and ending songs SubaHibi comprises.
Character voices is yet another category where this work amongst all KEROQ and also MAKURA projects sets itself apart, given that for the first time also a male voice is part of the cast, with Sayama Shin as Mamiya Takuji and as a first time work as (Eroge) Seiyuu I think he delivered a terrifc job, in fact also Sukaji agrees on that. The rest of the cast, well, Kawashima Rino (Yuki – a perfectly suiting role I’d say for hers), Hokuto Minami (Tachibana Kimika) or Naruse Mia (as..Ayane, yeah another reason I love this girl that much ^^), it comes down to me turning repeat mode stating KEROQ saved no costs and effort on terms of chara voices (also female sub-charas received voicing) either for Subarashiki Hibi.

+ Ero Content:
Okay lastly *this* is a category where some could find flaw with SubaHibi or let’s say some scenes to be more than one thinks to stand. But at this point I think Asceai probably put it best alongside his great review with “you may be tougher than you think”. Honestly speaking, despite my KEROQ obsession, I’ve got to admit that some scenes, particularly during “Looking-glass Insects” put me to edges, but ultimately these as horrible of an experience as they partwise are, they’re included for a reason and strengthen the compassion and understanding for certain characters and what they’ve gone through. In some cases I was also surprised by how daring KEROQ went with this project, as that’s something I guess people are very picky and some may also decide for themself whether it’s hit or miss, but as bizarre or scarry as that may sound (it’s certainly not ment in such way though), I’m glad that KEROQ did not cut back their visions. And in case you wonder, no, I’m not refering to the inclusion of Futanari. This is Sukaji/KEROQ we’re talking about after all and honestly I would have been a bit surprised if amongst it all, that particular theme would not have been touched on (nice pun btw. ^^). At this point it should also be noted that not all of the Ero scenes, which there are rather plenty of, are located on the shocking side of things as several among them are of the beautiful tasty sort as well, though selecting these out of them all is certainly subject of personal preferances.

+ System:
There’s not much to be said about the System itself. It features the basics one would expect and requires (skip, save, load, etc.) whilst everytime a chapter or subroute of it is completed, you’re returned to the main screen where you can start the next one if possible to do so. I personally found the concept to complete through one chapter (and do the same with its alternative branches) quite awesome as it requires you to fully finish a part of the story before moving on to the next one. Other than that the Omake section features also bonus as to be expected – the event CG gallery plus the (Ero) scene replay collection.

+ Packaging:
The Tokusou Shokaiban of Subarashiki Hibi comes along in the same (actually it’s identical) fashion as known from MAKURA Soft of recent years, meaning a large style sturdy packaging with additional halt by its Obi. Another similarity between both releases goes to the special bonus included. Subarashiki Hibi Official Artworks consists of 72 pages in total, with the exception of cover and starting pages, collecting selected artworks as featured in the course of project coverage by various Bishoujo Soft/Eroge magazines, kept in b/w. Contrary to the Official Artworks the former MAKURA Soft came along with in it’s Tokusou Shokaiban release, I must note to enjoy the content of this one a little bit more. That’s for one because the selected Event CG rough and character portrayal sketches are so much more detailed collected but also during the end it features a special interview with KEROQ mastermind Sukaji, that is quite a big plus as far as I’m concerned. Also on terms of pre-order campaign goods, KEROQ keeps up the high standard to reward their fans. While not as exceptional as the bonus lastly seen in the course of pre-order campaing for Supre~me Candy, this KEROQ Soft doesn’t need to hide itself on that terms either. Titled Shagaihi (社外秘 – the title itself irritated me as to consider this some kind of unpublished work collection like the Motoyone x Sukaji 2003 published Copyshi of similar title) coevally with the release of SubaHibi KEROQ announced a new project. Labeled as “Korie Riko x Yuzuriha project” it contained lots of awesome rough/draft artworks (except starting pages also all b/w) by the artistical femme fatale of KEROQ relations (as well as a neat Yuki artwork in Korie Riko style as it’s backside cover art!), plus interviews with both on this project their now revealed to work on, whilst details are kept..well, a secret even within this rather extensive bonus (just note the “Ikilove” attached to the background art pattern for one of the starting color pages – KEROQ is teasing ^^). Now of course, ever since late August last year it is known that this secret work will be MAKURA’s upcoming IkiKoi on which also Sukaji is going to be in charge of scenario while karory turned out to be the other main artist involved. Overall the packaging conducted on SubaHibi definitely holds what the Tokusou Shokaiban title attached to promises, leaving no flaw to be found.

+ Overall Impression:
I never made a secret about my stance on this particular Softhouse, hence when it comes to KEROQ there’s certainly some bias in the mix. Yet, even with a non-clouded mind there’s no way around and neither doubt that Subarashiki Hibi ~Furenzoku Sonzai~ is a masterpiece through which KEROQ revived themself after all these years of absence. It’s the rare case of that every single praise this project received ever since its spring release last year, was absolute rightfully expressed and pointed towards and I can’t help but to consider this an essential venture for everyone wondering about the fame this Brand gained since back the days of Tsui no Sora. To me, it’s also been quite a while that I completed my way through a Soft, felt completely satisfied and coevally sadness for having finished, demanding more of the same quality. While I’m inclined to doubt that this write-up does Subarashiki Hibi the proper justice it deserves, I still hope that at least to some extend yours truly was capable to provide an impression as to what scales Sukaji & Co. acchieved to craft here. Subarashiki Hibi raises the quality bar for Eroge/Denpa Adventures quite some levels higher, which leads to my resume that even if you’re not a fan of the paticular “genre”, there’s no way to miss out on a venture as crafted by KEROQ.

• Blackxwhite
Release: 2010/08/15
(full color)

-Other side of the Doujinshi
-C78 Traumatize Clearfile Bag
-C78 Traumatize Cleaner Cloth

KEROQ / MAKURA staff member Kagome certainly likes Light Novels. That’s a theory based merely on release record of his Doujin Circle Traumatize. In fact, following this talent for a long time now, it always felt to me like Kagome-sensei really had a certain “sense for popularity” in these regards. So as to come up with themes like Toaru Majutsu no Index long before the series and its spin-off gained wide spreading fame amongst Doujin scene. So it’s not surprising that for his Comike78 participation, Kagome came up with another Light Novel themed Doujinshi whilst the particular series in spotlight is (yet) rather unheared of. Blackxwhite is a fully fledged “Fan book” based on Anda Sadanatsu’s KOKORO-CONNECT. Contrary to his previous release (’09 winter Comike), this time around Kagome-sensei goes back to the full color illustration book style for Blackxwhite (sounds kinda strange with a title like that, nee? ^^).
Despite this switch in terms of presentation though, the level of quality brought forth by Traumatize is of sheer amazing high level once again. Best example right visable at the very start and outside of this release. Front artwork featuring Kagome-sensei’s take on Inaba Himeko sitting in front of a black/white checked pattern background, while backside got Nagase Iori in same pose and style presented. Inside the opening pages as well as the final two concluding ones carry forth that chara theme with one portrayal of Himeko walking next and leaning to Taichi, while the final page has Iori in the same situation. Furthermore meticulously refined “sneak / teaser” picture bubbles of situations showing the girl (once Himeko plus on the literal other side Iori) getting closer/aiming for a kiss with Taichi sets a neat atmosphere for this Traumatize publication. Once progressing forward, the starting part puts focus again on Himeko, one being a rather adult targeted situation with the girl having “fun with herself” although explicit details are “covered” by a shocked/blushing Taichi, while another Himeko focused full page artwork features the girl going down on the lead hero in a classroom setting with shirt open showing a black bra. Next heroine of focus is Kiriyama Yui. Also this girl received two pages of Kagome glory interpretation, featuring Yui in situation such as high-kick (and therewith Pantsuu revealing ^^), an embarrased facial portray and my personal favorite here, floating Yui. Follow-up two page spreading illustration basically could be described as KOKORO-CONNECT character collage. One side of the artwork with Yui on a daytime setting, while the corresponding other side has Himeko at a sunset scenary and in the middle Yukata wearing Iori springs forth..and yeah, even Taichi *and* Yoshifumi are featured. Little more space left for some further character focus the follow-up part of Blackxwhite moves focus to Yui..in bedtime wear or differently described according to Kagome Petankko Yui. Really nice take on this girl that ranges among my favorites as contained herein. Even more Himeko goodness next, and by then it was out of question who’s the artist’s favorite among the K-C heroines. Also covering art as done by Kagome for the accompanying Traumatize Goods Set, the Cleaner Cloth, also a neat rear-side Himeko in Sports wear (tight black leggings) concludes the eyecandy he came up for this girl. Final artwork Traumatize presents, before the end of Blackxwhite goes into corresponding Iori opening, is the lovely two page spreading illustration Kagome-sensei published as first indication for his Comike78 plans and as featured for the Set Clearfile Bag – a summerly beach wear take on Iori and Himeko while personally speaking this represents my overall favorite artwork featuring Himeko herein.
Regardless of theme he chooses for, Kagome-sensei’s publications are always something to really look forward to. Blackxwhite hence lines up into the Traumatize hall of fame with it sheer amazing eyecandy contained. Also rather contrary to previous releases by this Circle once for a change (or on rare occassion) Kagome came up with some Goods to accompany the main publication with. As mentioned before we’ve got a Clearfile Bag (something very handy!) plus a neat little K-C themed (Megane) Cleaner Cloth. While unfortunately I didn’t manage to line-up for Traumatize at the event myself, this represents actually the first purchase past Comike I did in Akihabara (Mandarake) and gladly they stocked in a copy to satisfy this KEROQ fanboy’s Kagome demands. Absolutely great release once again that is highly recommended to fans and appreciators of beautiful and colorful eyecandy.

One thing which is set and booked for sure is, much as noted during previous blogging here on N-Field, I’m returning to Japan in summer this year once again. Whilst the winterly edition of Comike just concluded the other day, also the date for summer Comic Market 2011 has been announced coevally marking the road to this event.
According to the organizers Comiket80 will be held from 2011/08/12 to 2011/08/14.
So, besides wanting to wish everyone a happy new year and thanks for keep checking out N-Field throughout 2010, here goes also the call in terms anyone out there plans on attending Comike80 as well and looks for some company (you know, because not only waiting ’till the doors open is much more enjoyable that way, but also the result of lining-up/scoring on Sets is by far more increased the more people team up for and besides I for one don’t consider myself all that bad of a company ^^).
Hence contact with this crazy little Otaku possible via leaving a comment at this place and now also silly me can be found on the twitter realms.

So, let’s all aim for a good new year then!
良いお年を迎えてください！

Fate/Zero adapted into Anime goodness is something with which ufotable wins the TYPE-MOON addicts heart all over again, especially after this Brand showcased on such splendid manners how skilled they are when it comes to novel adaptions through Kara no Kyoukai. Even more joy since this announcement comes by this particular studio (rather than others that tried themself at TYPE-MOON source material over the years), while at the same time alongside this announcement it’s been revealed that staff from ufotable’s previous TYPE-MOON related project are part of this Fate/Zero Anime on top!
However, while to some extend it’s been a matter of time the famed spin-off Novel by Gen Urobuchi would receive such treatment, the second announced ufotable x TYPE-MOON work came out of the blue not necessarily enflaming joy especially by fans of the latter. Remember the Brand’s upcoming project announcement back in 2008? More precisely the work slated to follow past Mahou Tsukai no Yoru?

Yes, lastly they’re talking about ガールズワーク Girls’ Work again, which is quite unexpected due to the release difficulties (delays) the former TM project faces, however the details of this Girls’ Work announcement causes mixed reactions. Apparently instead of Visual Novel goodness as initially revealed by the Softbrand two years ago, TYPE-MOON now makes it sound that Girls’ Work faced media change to ufotable Anime project instead! That’s because an Anime for this project involving scenario writer Hoshizora Meteo (next to Kimura Kou Meteo been the initial announced writer for this project, though the former is not credited now anymore for the Anime…) been revealed and while back then we were only provided with artistical details of that it’s going to feature the skills of Teicoku Syounen / Imperialboy and Iuro for background/city designs, the main artist for this project now is revealed to be Kannagi Manga-ka Takenashi Eri! While admitted more TM x ufotable gets me totally excited, I’m not sure and to some extend must join those fans disappointed over the Brand’s decision to make alternate the project’s nature altogether, which I for one clearly see founded within the schedule TYPE-MOON apparently faced problems ever since they set that themself back in ’08.
But all this talk over the prominent Softhouse plus the mere week left to go for winter Comike makes me excited enough for another TYPE-MOON centric write-up planned for “a while” now to be blogged here on N-Field.

• CONCEPT
Release: 2008/12/28
133 pages (all color)

-Sample content shot No.1
-Sample content shot No.2
-Sample content shot No.3
-Sample content shot No.4

Released among the Comike75 Set by TYPE-MOON, this 130 pages strong art collection according to the starting page follows the concept (lame pun there very much inteded btw.) of “history and record of TYPE-MOON from 2003 to 2008 in comic market” as the famed Softhouse celebrated its 5th anniversary at the big scale event held twice a year at Tokyo Big Sight then. Hence in contrast to previous art/illustration publications TYPE-MOON sweetened their event paticipation up to then, CONCEPT is sort of a retrospect and coevally collection of what these five years of the Brand’s “Doujin Life” brought along so far. A concept as conducted within CONCEPT which is of rather interesting nature, especially given that (as fellow fans can surely attest) it is due to the fame this Brand gathered that often getting ahold of TYPE-MOON Comike Sets turned into a rather difficult and expensive task. Hence I for one did miss out especially older publications by them and found the premise of a TYPE-MOON COMIC MARKET VISUAL COLLECTION as CONCEPT is subtitled as an important acquistion. But before jumping to conclusion, let’s take a closer look into this release and what exactely it’s comprised of. In order not to make this write-up any longer than “necessary” I guess some break-down on the content with comments by yours truly attached to would be (hopefully) the best way to provide you with an insight on CONCEPT.
Before that, a few general notes regarding the content presentation of this book though. All the (re)visits to TYPE-MOON at Comike as featured within CONCEPT are presented in the same style whilst varying on terms of length and content. This means, each starts out with an opening double-page that presents you details about the specific event participation, such as date and booth number, Set content details plus these facts are accompanied by tiny icon size images of the TYPE-MOON Staff outfit (shirts, aprons, whatever they wore at the booth back then). Also each artwork collected features comments by the respective talent in charge, more on that during though within.
+ Comike65 – 2003 winter | concept: Fate/stay night Jou much as the title indicates, marked the first time TYPE-MOON came up with the famed project for Comike participation/Goods Set sake. As such lovely Saber art by Takeuchi Takashi in winterly style is collected making this section within CONCEPT though also the shortest overall.
+ Comike66 – 2004 summer | concept: Fate/stay night. Second time which ended up way more extensive in comparison to the previous TM participation collected within this book. From the awesome Rin and Archer illustration which Koyama Hirokazu (known as staff member who’s going to be the main artist for the *hopefully soon* upcoming Mahou Tsukai no Yoru) came up for the Set bag, to Shitajiki originating Takeuchi art of Rider and Sakura up to Pajama wearing Saber as featured on the Set’s Bath towel. Even the uber-cute SD art BLACK-sensei did found its way into this section of CONCEPT.
+ Comike68 – 2005 summer | concept: NekoArc THE MOVIE / Natsu Matsuri. After their break on relates of Comike participation, in summer ’05 TYPE-MOON returned with a quite outstanding theme compared to the Fate/ appreciation seen thus far. Based on their brilliant April Fool’s Joke TYPE-MOON came up earlier that year, an own Set faced release at Comike. CONCEPT gathers the artworks as initially published via the Pamphlet, which means that besides wonderful Takeuchi x Hirokazu Koyama NekoArc illustrations, also art done by Keito Koume (non TYPE-MOON staff but brought along for the project) in pretty Makoto Shinkai esque beauty (as also commented by the involved artists herein btw. ^^) is featured. Sadly this remained to be an April Fool’s Joke, though then again at least NekoArc received Comike Goods Set treatment, which is something I still hope for Hazakura Romantic to face one day…Besides this promintent theme also the other side of concept this TYPE-MOON Comike participation in summer ’05 is featured within, though on content-wise much smaller scale.
+ Comike69 – 2005 winter | concept: Tousaka Jinja: Another Fate/ Set, with some obvious focus hollow/ataraxia. My personal favorite herein (next to some more cute BLACK-sensei SD illustrations – I probably repeat myself by stating that I’d love to see this staff member getting a Circle project launched at last as well) is the servants (Saber, Lancer and Archer) all dressed in black really looking so cool there. Of course also the Karen about-to-get-dressed as done by Takeuchi for the Set’s bath towel is pure eyecandy at this section.
+ Comike70 – 2006 summer | concept: Fate no Natsu: Not enough summerly Fate/ goodness up to now? Well, Comike70 brought along even more summer style eyecandy of that category. In beach and summer wear this section features the heroines *and* male cast of the prominent TYPE-MOON project in various takes done by Takeuchi Takashi and also once again cute BLACK-sensei SD.
+ Comike71 – 2006 winter | concept: Fate/Zero Shidou: “Shidou” the start to fabulous collaboration spin-off between TYPE-MOON and Nitro+ star writing talent Gen Urobuchi was the theme and concept for winter Comike in ’06. This section as rather short one for a change collects the lovely Takeuchi cover art for the first novel, as well as insert artwork, plus the neat event exclusive Shiori BLACK-sensei came up with.
+ Comike72 – 2007 summer | concept: ALL AROUND TYPE-MOON: Another quite special theme this Brand conducted at Comike. Besides the wonderful Drama CD Ahnenerbe no Ichinichi of which also the complete booklet artworks done by BLACK were collected for this section amongst CONCEPT also all of the AATM Clear Poster artworks found its way into this art collection. For those remembering that TYPE-MOON Set this means guest art galore unlike anything else before from Chinatsu Kurahana (aka Nitro+ CHiRAL’s Tatanakana) for Fate/Zero to Ototsugu Konoe’s -Heavens Feel- illustration up to all the TYPE-MOON staff newly done artworks for this Set are gathered herein. My personal favorite (next to Kurahana-sensei’s art) clearly is the neat Shiki artwork Takeuchi-sensei did for this Clear Poster Set.
+ Comike73 – 2007 winter | concept: Fate/Zero: commemoration over the conclusion for Fate/Zero was the main motif for TYPE-MOON’s Comike73 Set. Besides the few artworks from the final Novel itself as collected back for the beginning as well, this section features even more guest artworks than it’s been the case for the previous Comike revisit by TYPE-MOON. Reason for that because CONCEPT collects all of these illustrations as originally contained within the event exclusive art release All OVER/Zero. Despite having gone for this wonderful release back at the event, the outstanding quality and line-up for it, makes double-dipping not minded at all. Artists such as Rei Hiroe, Ugetsu Hakua, Chinatsu Kurahana, Ruroo and Nitro+ staff members (Yuupon!) contributed Fate/Zero themed art next to the TYPE-MOON staff including MORIYA, PFALZ and also shimoshi.
+ Comike75 – 2008 winter | concept: BRAND NEW HEROINES ALL AROUND TYPE-MOON 2: Thus reaching to the, by then, latest TYPE-MOON Set whereat also CONCEPT was part of. Naturally this final section is kept more basic, featuring the complete character cover artwork to the artbook itself as conclusion. Contrary to previous TYPE-MOON coverage though, I really missed the inclusion of the lovely Takeuchi-sensei done Shiki Bath towel artwork that also came along this Set though.
Summarized CONCEPT is much as its concept promises, a pretty awesome collection and record for these five years of TYPE-MOON Comike participation. Even though it could clearly pass under the title of Fate/ Comike material as well, the extend of its coverage makes it a real essential acquisition for every TYPE-MOON addict and appreciator of high quality art as well. Here’s looking forward to the next five years of this Brand’s Comike attendance and maybe we’ll see a follow-up release of this scale soon.