Sword Art Online Extra Edition Coming on Blu-ray and DVD

Aniplex of America, Inc. recently announced at their industry panel at Anime Weekend Atlanta (Atlanta, GA.) that they will be releasing the home video versions of SWORD ART ONLINE –Extra Edition– on Blu-ray and DVD on December 23rd. Pre-orders for this product will begin next Monday (9/29/2014) on the official U.S. Sword Art Online homepage (www.SwordArt-OnlineUSA.com) and also through official retailers. The SWORD ART ONLINE –Extra Edition– will be available in the U.S., Canada, Central and South Americas.The SWORD ART ONLINE –Extra Edition– will feature both the original Japanese and English audios with English and Spanish subtitles. 

Bonus contents for the Blu-ray release will include the “Sword Art Offline” special animation (English subtitles included), the Sword Art Online II trailer, a deluxe booklet and an exclusive poster. The standard edition DVD will include the SAO II trailer as the bonus content. < BD Features>  Spoken Languages: Japanese & English  Subtitles: English & Spanish  Total Run Time: Approx. 100 min.  Rating: 13UP  Special Animation “Sword Art Offline” (English subtitled)  SAO II Trailer  Deluxe booklet  Exclusive poster.

About Sword Art Online Extra Edition
On a hot summer day, Kazuto (Kirito) takes Suguha (Leafa) to his school, to meet Asuna, Keiko 
(Silica) and Rika (Lisbeth). Their mission: teach Suguha how to swim. Kazuto, however, has a 
prior commitment to see Seijiro Kikuoka, an officer with the Virtual Reality Section of the 
Department of General Affairs. Kikuoka wants to go over Kazuto’s recollection of his time in 
SAO and ALO, to resolve some unanswered questions. Later in ALO, Kirito and the girls (along 
with Klein and Agil), embark on an underwater quest to show Yui her very first whale. But the deeper down they go, the more mysterious the quest becomes…

Rude Dude: The Steve Rude Story Review

We all know Batman, Superman, Spiderman and The Hulk but not everyone knows the sheer amount of effort that goes into creating and maintaining these iconic characters. Generally the distinct difference between someone who knows comics and someone who love Superheroes is the appreciation for the people who actually draw and create these memorable characters.

In comics, especially in recent years, comic may have up to three artists on each issue. There are pencillers, who is the first step. They draw every panel to the writers description in pencil, or drafting leads before handing their work over to the inker, or inks. Also known as 'the embellisher,' inks is responsible for refining the previously outlined panels and giving them depth. The last step is to add color which give you the vibrant comic panels readers have come to love.

Steve Rude has done is all, best known as a penciller, he has tackled iconic characters like Superman and Batman while also creating his own character in his most well known comic Nexus. Rude Dude is a comprehensive overview of the life and career to date of this incredible artist. They interview co-workers, family members, friends, bosses and other artists that have interacted with Rude throughout his comic book career into his transition to fine art.

With traditional fine arts training under his belt Rude's attention to detail is extraordinary in that it is as close to perfection as it gets! There is a story where the writer of a comic set a scene in a specific room and Rude walked in the room, which was an office, and sat and just drew it. He didn't make an appointment or anything. Unfortunately this need for perfection made him miss several deadlines and get fired from big publishing companies like Marvel, which puts a unique perspective on the inner working of the comic book industry. Artist are under a lot of pressure to get issues out on schedule which often forces them to hastily throw together panels.

The film itself is eye opening to both the world of a comic book artist and the struggles of someone who suffers from bipolar disorder. The director doesn't mask Rude's abrasive demeanor or excuse his behavior. There are colleagues that will state he was not the easiest person to work with but a the end of the day he always produced a unique and in-depth product that goes above and beyond the writer's expectations.

Rude Dude: The Steve Rude Story will be released on October 7th 2014 available at Amazon.com.

MARVEL HEROES 2015 Announces Playable KITTY PRYDE, BLADE, X-23, DOCTOR DOOM and More for Pre-Purchase

    image credit: Marvel


Ever since the developers at Gazillion relaunched their Marvel ARPG game as Marvel Heroes 2015 fans knew when that year came around it was going to be big for the game. The first hint that that was going to be the case came recently when Gazillion announced their Advance Pack 2, an offer at two price points to pre-purchase all 12 of their scheduled playable heroes plus (in the deluxe pack) an extra costume for all 12, the May “Mayday” Parker, The Spectacular Spider-Girl Enhanced Costume for Spider-Man, the Marvel NOW black variant costume for the upcoming 2014 release of Magneto and a pile of in-game items/other goodies.

Of the twelve 2015 heroes, ten were announced in a 'soft' order of their launch and this does not include X-23, who comes as an early (before October 10) order bonus in anticipation for her release in December of this year.
With added details about their potential play-style from Gazillion's Jeff “Doomsaw” Donais, the ten announced heroes (and villains) are:



Iceman
“Bobby Drake, aka Iceman, is one of the most classic Marvel Heroes and we're very happy to introduce him into the game. Both as a member of Spider-Man and his Amazing Friends and many incarnations of the X-Men, Iceman is one of the most exciting and powerful mutants in the Marvel Universe.”
“Iceman almost made the cut for Advance Pack 1, but we wanted to take some extra time to make his ice as interesting as possible using the graphics engine (as well as use his Omega-Level powers in as many ways as possible). With all the new tech were built into the game over the last year, we're satisfied we can do an outstanding job with Iceman in Marvel Heroes.”

Doctor Doom
“Dr. Doom is a traditional villain who had a turn cooperating with heroes in several storylines, including the Future Foundation story. He is arguably one of the most iconic personas in the Marvel Heroes world and has a significant beef with Thanos on the horizon.”
“Doom will have several playstyle options in Marvel Heroes. He is a Tyrant, a Sorcerer and a Gifted Inventor. He will have access to Physical attacks, Mental (Sorcery) powers and Energy powers based on his armor and other inventions.”
“He will be a flexible hero and is one of the most likely to be a high-cost hero (although that's not relevant for the Advance Pack 2 owners).”

War Machine
“As you would expect, War Machine in Marvel Heroes means a massive amount of firepower being brought to the table. Focusing on physical damage with missiles, melee, machine guns, and even wrist-mounted shotguns, War Machine's gameplay relies on managing the immense amount of heat produced by such an arsenal and is equipped to mow down just about any enemy, near or far.”

Kitty Pryde & Lockheed
“Kitty Pryde is one of the most iconic X-Men of all time, from her first appearance onward, Kitty has been capturing the hearts of fans with her awesome phasing powers and unique alien ally, Lockheed! In Marvel Heroes, Kitty Pryde will be able to utilize her martial arts abilities, mutant phasing powers, and fire breath of her permanently summoned ally, Lockheed.”

Vision
“Vision has always been at the top of the list for new heroes to be introduced. His inclusion in the upcoming Avengers 2: Age of Ultron virtually assured him a spot in the Advance Pack 2.”
“Vision has a wide range of powers and several build options for Marvel Heroes. He could be built as a formidable melee hero (due to his density control), a devastating ranged hero (with his various laser blasts) or a combination of both, using various synergistic mechanics. Additionally, as a classic Avenger, he will definitely have some interesting banter with many other heroes.”

She-Hulk
“Not only is Jennifer Walters the cousin of the Incredible Hulk, she's also a pretty awesome superhero in her own right known as She-Hulk! In addition to using her gamma-infused strength to defeat the heaviest of heavies (aiding teams such as the Avengers and FF), She-Hulk also spends much of her time in the courtroom as a lawyer for the Superhuman Law division of a large New York firm.”
“Less smashy than her green-skinned cousin, She-Hulk uses her wits and trained fighting techniques to deliver massive punches and dropkicks to even the most dangerous enemies.”

Winter Soldier
“Winter Soldier made a huge impression outside of the comic book world with his appearance in this year's Captain America: The Winter Soldier, making him the perfect fit as a marquee hero in Advance Pack 2. Using an advanced arsenal from his years as an assassin as well as his iconic metal arm, Winter Soldier is capable of dispatching enemies near and far with deadly precision.”

Blade
“One of the first successful Marvel Heroes to grace the silver screen, Blade (also known as the Daywalker) is an incredibly skilled combatant with various weapons including firearms, custom-made glaives, stakes (made of silver, of course), and his iconic katana blade.”
“While Blade typically uses these as tools against the dark arts (specifically vampires), he has been known to turn his gaze on more conventional threats when the need calls for it.”

Iron Fist
“Danny Rand is known as a few things in the Marvel Universe: the rich, philanthropist (not quite Stark rich, though) Daniel Rand, and the Living Weapon: The Immortal Iron Fist. Using his chi to move and nearly inhuman speeds and making his fist like unto iron, he is able to level mountains with a single punch. In addition to its destructive capabilities, Iron Fist can also focus his chi in more productive ways, such as helpful healing mantras.”

Black Cat
“Felicia Hardy was the daughter of a world-renowned cat burglar (known by the rather to the point moniker, The Cat) who eventually decided to follow in her father's footsteps. Using claws, a grappling hook (for transportation), and a newly upgraded costume made by the Tinkerer, Black Cat is both a formidable melee combatant and the master of unique "trap assassin" type abilities.”



source: Newsarama.com

Infinite Crisis Launches Massive Update with Two New Champions!

Infinite Crisis, the free-to-play MOBA from Turbine based in the DC Universe, launched its largest update yet introducing a new tutorial mode where players are coached by famed DC heroes and unlock six free Champions as they learn to master the game. In addition, today’s update features major performance improvements, completely remastered maps and two new champions -- Atomic Joker and Nightmare Robin! Nightmare Robin

Universe of Origin: Nightmare Alignment:
Hero For millennia, the vampire Ra’s al Ghul used his League of Assassins to manipulate Earth-19 from the shadows. His daughter, Talia, also cursed with vampirism, desired her father’s power. All Talia’s efforts failed until she finally found the edge that she required, a man who was strong enough to challenge the Demon’s Head: Bruce Wayne. Talia, knowing Bruce was Batman, spent years influencing him toward her ultimate goal of her father’s destruction. Yet she would leave nothing to chance. Talia created a child, the perfect union of her family’s vision and Bruce Wayne’s potential. She named the boy Damian, training him in secret before sending him to apprentice with her estranged lover, as Robin. Here, once more, Talia’s plans met with frustration. In the final confrontation between Batman and Ra’s al Ghul, Damian realized the depth of his mother’s depraved manipulation when Batman was infected by his grandfather. Damian watched as Batman, the man he loved and respected, became a ravening monster, succumbing to the curse of vampirism. The ashes of his father’s humanity kindled a burning certainty that the blood of al Ghul could only birth monsters. Now, feeling the compulsion of his own vampiric curse, the young Damien fights a war to scourge the filth of vampirism from the world.



Universe of Origin: Atomic Alignment:
Villain When they broke into an abandoned military bunker, those blighted survivors of the nuclear war couldn’t have realized what they were about to unleash on themselves. Within its derelict walls, they discovered a hibernating computer system. Sensing their movements, the system activated and they found attached to it the head of the Joker suspended in a preservation vessel. The Joker welcomed them with a cackle and told them it was time to build the future. The Joker told them that the military had wanted to use his unique mind to come up with nuclear war scenarios. Displaying a brutal pragmatism that the Joker appreciated, they put his head in a preservation vessel and got rid of the “superfluous” parts. Now that the “serious” world was dead and gone, he told the survivors, it was time to build a new “crazy” one. So desperate were the survivors that they decided to listen to the Joker and began building a new community within the bunker.

New Screenshots of Final Fantasy XV and Final Fantasy Type-0 HD

SQUARE ENIX today released new FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0™ HD screenshots that feature Ace and the rest of Class Zero attempting to defend their homeland with magic spells and summons. The full-size screenshots showcase the graphical improvements that Square Enix and its development partner, HexaDrive, have implemented. Square Enix also announced that the North American version of the game will include Japanese/English audio and English/French/Spanish subtitles.
 
Additionally, the new screenshots from the downloadable playable demo, FINAL FANTASY XV –EPISODE DUSCAE–, highlight the journey of Noctis and his entourage. Players will be able to see familiar denizens of the FINAL FANTASY series, including a larger-than-life Adamantoise, a lumbering Garula herd, and mischievous goblins. Fans can also catch a glimpse of Luna, who plays a pivotal role in the story. All screenshots released today are from in-game footage, showcasing the high-quality graphics that players can expect from the game.
 
The extended version of the much talked about, “FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0 HD Talk Show” which showcased the FINAL FANTASY XV tech demo at last week’s Tokyo Game Show is scheduled to be streamed on Thursday, October 2nd at 8:00 p.m. JST / 4:00 a.m. PDT. The program will be available on Square Enix Presents (http://www.jp.square-enix.com/sep_japan/) in Japanese, and a subtitled version will be available at a later time.

FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0 HD is scheduled for release on March 17, 2015 for North America and will be priced at $59.99. Pre-order FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0 HD to secure the FANTASY XV playable demo voucher. Both FINAL FANTASY TYPE-0 HD and the accompanying FINAL FANTASY XV demo will be available for the PlayStation®4 system and the Xbox One.

Final Fantasy XV

 Final Fantasy Type - 0 HD

Vampire Knight Manga Series Finale & Special Edition Release

All things come to an end otakus. Vampire Knight series finale will hit from VIZ Media check out the details below. Anime Rules!!!

VIZ Media will deliver the stunning climax to Matsuri Hino’s epic VAMPIRE KNIGHT series with the release of the finale, Volume 19, on October 14th.

The final volume will be available in a special Limited Edition featuring an alternate cover and a hardcover mini art book. The standard edition volume will be available in print and digitally.

VIZ Media will further thrill readers with the release of the VAMPIRE KNIGHT “NIGHT CLASS” Manga Box Set 2 on November 4th, the second VAMPIRE KNIGHT Box Set with volumes 11-19 to complete the series.

On December 2nd, the VAMPIRE KNIGHT: FLEETING DREAMS novel will be released in print and digitally, housing a collection of prose short stories never before released in English. Also being released on that date will be the digital exclusive, VAMPIRE KNIGHT: LIFE, a special new manga chapter by Matsuri Hino!
 
Digital versions of VAMPIRE KNIGHT Vol. 19 will be available for $6.99 (USD/CAN) and VAMPIRE KNIGHT: FLEETING DREAMS for $10.99 (USD/CAN) on the same day of their respective print releases from VIZManga.com and through the VIZ MANGA App for the Apple iPad®, iPhone® and iPod® touch, Android-powered smart phones, as well as through the Nook, Kobo, Kindle, iBooks, Comixology and GooglePlay stores.

“VAMPIRE KNIGHT is a groundbreaking series that has introduced many readers to the shojo manga genre,” says Nancy Thistlethwaite, Editor. “Shojo Beat debuts our first-ever Limited Edition release for VAMPIRE KNIGHT Volume 19! And in December, the VAMPIRE KNIGHT: FLEETING DREAMS novel will feature new illustrations by Matsuri Hino. The digital exclusive chapter, VAMPIRE KNIGHT: LIFE, reveals more of the story from volume 19. Don’t miss out on these special releases in celebration of this beloved manga series!”

In Matsuri Hino’s acclaimed series, the foreboding Cross Academy is attended by two groups of students: the Day Class and the Night Class. At twilight, when the students of the Day Class return to their dorm, they cross paths with the Night Class on their way to school. Yuki Cross and Zero Kiryu are the Guardians of the school, protecting the Day Class from the Academy's dark secret: the Night Class is full of vampires!
 
VAMPIRE KNIGHT Vol. 19 Limited Edition · Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens · MSRP: $15.99 U.S. / $18.99 CAN · Available October 14th!
Savor the tense finale to Matsuri Hino’s acclaimed paranormal series in a limited edition featuring an exclusive alternate cover and a mini hardcover 42-page art book.
 
VAMPIRE KNIGHT Vol. 19 Standard Edition · Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens · MSRP: $9.99 U.S. / $12.99 CAN / $6.99 Digital · Available October 14th!
In the concluding volume to the series, Kaname vows to sacrifice himself. But Yuki vows to sacrifice herself to stop him. Zero takes a weapon in hand to protect what is dear to him. Whether parted for eternity or close enough to touch, they each will always desire their beloved…
 
VAMPIRE KNIGHT Manga Box Set 2 · Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens · MSRP: $89.99 U.S. / $99.99 CAN · Available November 4th!
Comprehensive manga box set features the second-half of the VAMPIRE KNIGHT manga series, Volumes 11-19, along with the hardcover 42-page art book. Set is contained in a gorgeously illustrated slipcase.
 
VAMPIRE KNIGHT: FLEETING DREAMS · Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens · MSRP: $14.99 U.S. / $16.99 CAN / $10.99 Digital · Available December 2nd!
Fans will not want to miss this special collection of manga short created stories by Matsuri Hino and Ayuno Fujisaki based on VAMPIRE KNIGHT! Stories include “Deranged Love,” in which a dying Rido reflects on his obsessive love for Juri. Kaname seeks to reward Yuki for doing well on her studies with tutor Aido in “Gifts for Yuki.” The story of Sara’s first love is revealed in “Hidden Love.” In “Queen of the Abyss,” after Zero parts ways with Yuki and returns to being a vampire hunter, he encounters a vampire named Shien.

VAMPIRE KNIGHT: LIFE (Digital Release Only) · Rated ‘T+’ for Older Teens · MSRP: $2.99 U.S. / CAN · Available December 2nd!
In this exclusive digital manga chapter, Matsuri Hino returns to the events at the end of volume 19.
 
Manga creator Matsuri Hino burst onto the manga scene with her title Kono Yume ga Sametara (When This Dream Is Over), which was published in LaLa DX magazine. Hino is renowned as a highly talented artist with a distinctive style and became a published manga artist a mere nine months after she decided to pursue it as a full-time career. With the success of her other popular series, CAPTIVE HEARTS and MERU PURI (both also published by VIZ Media), Hino has firmly established herself as a major force in the world of shojo manga.

Also catch the VAMPIRE KNIGHT and VAMPIRE KNIGHT GUITY anime series, available exclusively on DVD from VIZ Media and featured on the company’s digital anime streaming platform – Neon Alley.

G.I. Joe #1 (The Fall of G.I. Joe) Review

DOES THE WORLD NEED G.I. JOE? Cobra had become an international peacekeeping force… and the future of G.I. JOE looks bleak. SCARLETT leads what’s left of America’s ultimate fighting force but will she be able to keep her new team together?

G.I. Joe #1 is a fresh new take on the Joe's. Writer Karen Traviss brings her experience of writing stories based on military and politics and weaves it into the Joe's. The first issue is not an action packed by any means. Instead we trade in the guns, explosions and the classic battle cry for a more political driven issue. Cobra has now become an international peacekeeping force and are trying to establish allies and ties. With Cobra not up to their usual ways the government is debating whether the G.I. Joes are even needed. Enters Scarlett the new leader of the Joe's who is trying to keep the Joe's together. I actually like Scarlett as the leader of the G.I. Joe's. Her intelligence, strategic knowledge, and her relationship with each member works well. 

While I enjoy this issue I wish there was a little action in this. However this is building up to something that can be huge story arc for the Joe's. Cobra is definitely not all they appear to be, the Joe's might be heading to it last hurrah, and the world is in a brink of uncertainty. If you like a political thriller that will lead up to an all out battle. Check this one out.

Final Grade 7.5/10

Your First Look at AXIS: HOBGOBLIN #1!

                              Image Source: Marvel Comics


Got a Problem? Call Hobgoblin! Your First Look at AXIS: HOBGOBLIN #1!

This October, suit up with the one and only original Hobgoblin as he flies straight into the biggest event of the year in AXIS: HOBGOBLIN #1! That’s right, Roderick Kingsley, the one and only original Hobgoblin is back and fan-favorite creators Kevin Shinick (Superior Spider-Man Team-Up) and Javier Rodriguez (Daredevil) are taking him for a spin that’ll paint New York City orange! Only, Phil Urich, the city’s newly self-proclaimed Goblin King might have a thing or two to say about that! Yet as the threat of Inversion looms, prepare for a Hobgoblin book unlike any you’ve ever seen before. It all begins this October in AXIS: HOBGOBLIN #1!

 

 

AXIS: HOBGOBLIN #1 (of 3) (AUG140735)

Written by KEVIN SHINICK

Art & Cover by JAVIER RODRIGUEZ

FOC 09/29/14, On-Sale 10/22/14

 

 

 

 

A Voice In The Dark: Get Your Gun #1 Review

With Zoey and several of her roommates possible suspects in the murder of Mandy Jenkins, Uncle Zeke is taken off the case to avoid a conflict of interest. Meanwhile, Zoey meets her ‘fan' for the first time without masks. A Voice In The Dark: Get Your Gun #1 is written and illustrated by Larime Taylor.

A Voice In The Dark: Get Your Gun #1 starts off with punch. The tone is set in the first appearance of our protagonist Zoey. She is tied up in a chair with her friend being interrogated by the police for answers of recent murders. Zoey is a very interesting character when we are introduced to her. She seems like a normal girl with goals of finishing school, but has a urge that she can't seem to overcome. She has the urge to kill and now she can't stop doing it. She has already killed three people and now tries to suppress her urge with a radio show. Little does she know that someone has witnessed her crimes and is now stalking her. What are the motives of the stalker? What do they want with Zoey? I won't go into detail here. 

However I will say the story is really well written. The story is told through a series of diary entries from Zoey detailing her emotions, day to day activity, and how she interacts with people. I found this brand of storytelling refreshing and more realistic. Writer Larime Taylor wants you to really see the mind of a serial killer. While Zoey might not be as ruthless as others, it's her calm demeanor that makes her interesting. I want to know what sets her off, what drives her to commit these crimes, and hopefully in later issues it will be revealed. Overall this one story that has me wanting more. The characters are compelling and interesting, Zoey is a great protagonist which makes you wonder how she turned up like that. If you like dark stories with a little touch of first person perspective check this one out.

Final Grade 8.5/10

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time Vol 1 - 4 Review

Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Turtles In Time, takes our favorite heroes on the half shell into four different timezones. The turtles journey into the prehistoric period, feudal Japan, the golden age of pirates and the future. This is a short four part story arc written by Paul Allor and Erik Burnham. Is this a story arc worth the time jump? Or should you stay in the present times?

One thing I love about TMNT: Turtles In Time is that each volume focuses on one particular turtle. Making each one of the turtles the main focal point really help me as the reader connect more to them individually. In volume 1 the turtles arrived in the prehistoric era, all thanks to their time traveling friend Renet. After dodging an stampede of dinosaurs Raphael is capture by aliens of Krang's race. It's up to the remaining turtles to find out how to get Raphael back and how can they get home. I will say out of all the four volumes this one was the most lighthearted one. Raphael is the main focal point in this volume. It was fun to see Raphael vulnerable and having to rely on the help of others. Fans actually will get to see a sweeter side of Raphael as he befriends a baby dinosaur he calls pepperoni. This was a fun issue and it captures the spirit of the turtles for the younger readers. There is enough action for older fans and in this issue Mikey steals the show. I won't give it away all I will say is turtles can fly. 

In volume 2 the turtles travel to feudal Japan. This volume had the most emotional depth and hits the turtles hard. The main focal point in this volume is Leonardo. When the turtles arrive a fellow ninja is being attack by a group of other ninjas. The turtles decide to intervene and stop the attackers, they later find out the person they help was Hamato Yoshi. Hamato Yoshi sees the turtles as demons but invites them back to his home as he is grateful for their assistance. I won't go into any more details since it enters spoiler land. I will say this was a pretty intense volume for Leonardo, because he is tempted to change certain events in the past. Leo is in a really dark place in this volume and it was great to see him be conflicted with his moral code. To see the leader filled with hate, rage and willing to end something makes the reader ask would I have these same feelings.

The dark tone shifts to another lighthearted tone as volume three is all Mikey. The turtles travel to the golden age of pirates. The pirates are in trouble with the Kraken and are about to lose hope. Enters Mikey who decides to take upon himself to be the voice of inspiration. Mikey shows a rare serious tone as he gives a great dialogue of never giving up and the importance of pushing forward. Inspire by his words the pirates make Mikey the captain of the ship. This ensues a bunch of humorous moments with Mikey and his brothers. This volume is pack with humor and a feel good story for Mikey.

The final volume is my favorite because like volume 2 it has emotional depth. The final stop is a future that is ruled by the Shredder. The place is called Shredder Island which was formerly known as Manhattan. Humans and mutants live in a coexisting world. However all is not what it seems as Shredder rules with an iron fist. The main focal point of the story is Donny. Like Leo, Donny sees something he wants to change in the future in order to save it. He is at great conflict with himself and we see a vulnerability to the turtle who always has the answers. There is a moment where future self and past self meet and it is the highlight of this volume. Seeing my favorite turtle carry so much shame, regret and sorrow was great to read.

Overall I enjoyed this story arc it has everything you look for in the turtles. The book has humor, two great emotional depth stories and the artwork is spot on. If you love the turtles this a fun but an emotional story arc to check out. Each turtle has a lesson to learn and it furthers their characters more. 

Final Grade 8.5/10

Slender: The Arrival Now Available On Consoles

The wait is over. HE is here. 

Slender: The Arrival, launches today on PlayStation®3 computer entertainment system. Tomorrow, Xbox fans will have their chance to experience The Arrival on Xbox 360 games and entertainment system from Microsoft; both are priced at $9.99. Slender Man takes to the big screen with his first foray into the world of console gaming, promising big thrills and chills for a whole new audience.

Developed by Toronto indie team Blue Isle Studios and the only official Slender Man game, The Arrival puts you at the heart of a mystery surrounding the enigmatic Internet persona that has captivated and terrorized millions. Experience lives touched by Slender Man and follow the trail to connect them all to this unstoppable force of evil. Slender: The Arrival wraps players in a dark, foreboding atmosphere and a story fraught with terror, paranoia and other-worldly forces lurking behind every turn.

Written by the creative team behind Marble Hornets, this latest iteration in the Slender Man universe expands the canon established by the original web-series, with some new twists and extended content. Building on the successful Steam launch last Halloween, Slender: The Arrival comes to consoles with brand new story elements and features extended levels that continue to unfold the Slender Man mythos. Players are enveloped in a world of sensory deprivation filled with haunting visions and audio cues that create an ominous backdrop perfect for fostering a healthy dose of tension and paranoia. Follow the clues and unravel the mystery. That is, if you can survive.

The new content will be offered to Steam and PC players who already own Slender: The Arrival at no additional charge as free DLC. More information about this offering will be announced in the coming weeks.

Square Enix Products Brings Deathstroke to New York City

For its 2014 New York Comic Con exclusive, Square Enix recreated the nimbleness of Deathstroke to the utmost by incorporating flexible material in his shoulders and ankles to enable a wide range of motion. The paintwork features realistic weathering and chips on his armor, to imply the countless battles he has fought as an assassin. This stunning metallic color variant, a 2014 New York Comic Con Exclusive, brings a touch of noir to the classic Deathstroke design. The gold and black paint application on this figure makes for a stunning contrast and a must-have collectible for any fan of this deadly assassin.

Befitting an expert on weapons and explosives, the Deathstroke figure comes equipped with an arsenal of weapons, including a hand gun, a club, a sword, and a rifle along with corresponding interchangeable hands. The figure also includes a display stand.

500 of these limited edition figures will be available for purchase at the Square Enix booth (# 1813). An additional 500 will be available online at https://exclusives.na.square-enix.com/.

Product Details

BATMAN: Arkham Origins
PLAY ARTS -KAI- DEATHSTROKE Limited Color Version
(NYCC 2014 EXCLUSIVE)
Release: October 2014, Limited Distribution
MSRP: $99.99

Check the gallery below. Click on the pictures for better view.

Source: Square Enix

The Legend of Korra (XBOX One Impressions)

I had the great pleasure of attending this year's Nickelodeon Holiday presentation which you will read about later. While there I got my first hands on look for the new Legend of Korra game coming to all consoles. I played the XBOX One version and I must say fans of Korra can rest easy the game is awesome. Those familiar with the style of action beat em ups such as Bayonetta will be familiar with the flow of the game. Players will be able to use all the four air bending elements with a press of the button. Depending on enemies it will best to use certain elements. Some elements will work on certain enemies and some will not. One of my favorite parts of the gameplay was switching air bending elements while still fighting. For example I hit an opponent with fire and quickly switch to air which build up my combo hit more. Finding different combinations and styles kept me fully immerse in the game.


Wield The Air Bending Elements

Fans will also be happy to know that the graphics look amazing on next gen consoles. The environment, sound, and look of the show you love is all entact. Everything from the mannerism, attacks and location look beautiful on the XBOX One. So far the game looks to nail the feel of the show and the gameplay is truly action pack. We will have a full review when the game is released. You can check out some more stills below.

Pokemon BW: Adventures In Unova DVD Set On September 23rd

Hey Poke fans we have some news from VIZ Media. Check it out below.

Pokémon fans will embark on an exciting adventure through the Unova region where they will meet their favorite Pokémon when the home media release of POKÉMON BW: ADVENTURES IN UNOVA DVD SET 1 launches on September 23rd. In BW: ADVENTURES IN UNOVA, Ash and his friends Iris and Cilan have foiled Team Rocket's latest evil plan, and a new danger lurks on the horizon! But first, with eight Gym badges in hand, Ash is ready to take on the region's ultimate challenge: the Unova League, where he'll face familiar rivals and new opponents in his ongoing quest to become a Pokémon Master! Meanwhile, Iris has been having some trouble connecting with her powerful and stubborn Dragonite – can a visit home to the Village of Dragons help sort things out for the aspiring Dragon Master? And what exciting new adventures await our heroes beyond the Unova League? The answers will come as the journey continues!

Comic Preview: The Field From Image Comics

A man wakes up in a field, wearing only his underwear, with no memory, no identity, and no idea what to do. A cell phone beside him buzzes with a message. A single word: “Run.” A deadly cat-and-mouse story ensues in THE FIELD, a graphic novel by Ed Brisson (SHELTERED, COMEBACK) and Simon Roy (PROPHET), out from Image Comics this October. The man falls into the grips of a Bible salesman on a meth-fueled murder spree in a small town where the rules of civilization seem not to apply. Pursued by a biker gang bent on revenge and a group of cosplayers out to save the world, the man begins to wonder — Is Christian the Bible salesman really his only hope for survival? THE FIELD will be in comic book stores on October 15 and bookstores on October 28 and is available for pre-order now.

 

Cartoon Network's Anything Panel Coming To New York Comic Con

New York Comic Con is closing in and Cartoon Network has announced some of their events. You can check out below.

 

Saturday, OCTOBER 11

SCREENINGS

Halloween Screening Partaay

Time: 2:00 p.m. – 3:00 p.m.

Location: 1A24

Cartoon Network will also be hosting a Halloween Screening Partaay and Costume Contest. Come watch special Halloween episodes of your favorite Cartoon Network shows before they air on TV! Bring your A-game and participate in the costume contest with surprise guests judges and prizes for the top winners. Tickets for the autograph signing will be available for pickup at the screening (limited number of tickets available).

AUTOGRAPH SIGNINGS

Time: 3:15 p.m. – 4:15 p.m.

Location: 1E05

Come meet some of the amazing Cartoon Network talent following the Halloween Screening Partaay and Costume Contest. Make sure to pick up your tickets to the signing at the screening.

Sunday, OCTOBER 12

PANELS

CN ANYTHING Panel

12:15 p.m. – 1:45 p.m.

Location: The Empire Stage, Hall 1E

Talent:Adventure Time’s Kent Osborne (head of story), Jeremy Shada (voice of Finn), Jessica DiCicco (voice of Flame Princess), and Tom Kenny (voice of Ice King); Over the Garden Wall’s Patrick McHale (creator),Melanie Lynskey (voice of Beatrice) and Collin Dean (voice of Greg);Regular Show’s Sam Marin (voice of Pops) and Paula Spence (supervising art director );Uncle Grandpa’s Pete Browngardt (creator and voice of Uncle Grandpa) and Adam Devine (voice of Pizza Steve); Steven Universe’s Rebecca Sugar (creator),Zach Callison (voice of Steven) and Estelle (voice of Garnet); and Clarence’s Spencer Rothbell (head of story and voice of Clarence).

Imagine a super panel where ANYONE from your favorite Cartoon Network series could show up and ANYTHING could happen! Imagine exclusive content and insider info from show creators! Imagine impromptu performances and revelations from the talented cast and crews! Imagine a kitten tickling a pig! Well, imagine no more, friends! For the first time ever, Cartoon Network presents: CN ANYTHING, a panel moderated by comedian Adam Devine (voice of Pizza Steve, Uncle Grandpa) and featuring tons of special guests and never-before-seen content from your favorite animated comedies plus a sneak peek with the cast and creator of the upcoming mini-seriesOver the Garden Wall! 

 

 

 

Spawn: The Recall an amazing fan made film

Hey Otakus and Geeks fans, today we are taking a look at an amazing fan made film by French writer / director, Michael Paris. Spawn The Recall, really raises the bar for those wanting to create a fan film. It captures the look and feel of the comic series even better than the Spawn feature film starring Michael Jai White. The film took only 2 days to film but since the director was also the editor and effects artist, post production lasted 2 years. Could this spark a Spawn Remake? Hopefully this film reaches Spawn creator Todd Mcfarlane and he considers it. 

Check out the film:


Source: aggressivecomix.com

The New Kpop Girl Groups of 2014

This year has been an amazing year for many female Kpop groups that just started off for the first time in 2014. Even though the year is not over, I can definitely say that these groups have a good chance of becoming rather large and popular in the future; 1PS, Bob Girls, Red Velvet, Four Ladies, and Lip Service.


1PS (원피스, pronounced as One Piece Score) is made up of four members and is managed by 1theK, formerly known as LOEN Entertainment. They debuted their first album, The First Score, on March 3, 2014, with the song "Because I'm Your Girl". Made up of the members Yena (예나) the leader, Yoon Seo (윤서), Ji Eun (지은), and Sae Ha (새하), these girls in 1PS are all trained dancers; mostly in ballet. Their song "Because I'm Your Girl" reflects this ability, with one of the members constantly being shown to be doing ballet throughout the quiet, ballad like song. It's a peaceful piece of music, where the voices are balanced and bring about a warm feeling in you. While I'm personally not used to ballad like songs, I believe that 1PS will use their talent with not only singing but with dance, to make their mark.

1PS(원피스) - Because I'm your girl(여자이니까)

Bob Girls (단발머리) is also made up of four members, although they are the second girl's group managed by Chrome Entertainment. They debuted their first album, No Way, on June 10, 2014 with the song "No Way". This group is made up of Dahye (다혜), Yujeong (유정), Jina (지나), and Danbi (단비). What is so interesting with this group is, unlike most other girl groups, the singers all have short hair, going back to the name of their group, "Bob Girls", like the haircut called the bob. In fact, one representative from Chrome Entertainment made this statement about the group and their hair, "When a girl cuts her hair short, she doesn’t only go through a change in looks but people normally think of it as a change of her heart. Bobbed hair doesn’t just signify a hairstyle but it represents ‘woman’s transformation and change.’ Expressing its unique color through various transformations and change is Bob Girls’ identity." This being said, there is a certainly different experience when watching Bob Girls, shown in "No Way". Here, the dancing is sensual, and the music certainly reflects the feeling of sensuality as well. Listening to the lyrics, I definitely get the feeling of a certain romance behind it all, which is rather interesting, since the song also focuses on how you can say no in relationships. I would definitely like to see more music, which is already in the works.

[Bob Girls] 단발머리 - 노웨이(No way)

Red Velvet (레드벨벳) is certainly not cake (though that would be wonderful right now, would it not?) but instead are a four member group managed by S.M. Entertainment. They debuted their first album, Happiness, on August 1, 2014 with the song "Happiness". Made up of Irene (아이린) with pink hair, Seul-Gi (슬기) with yellow hair, Wendy (웬디) with blue hair, and is from Canada, and finally Joy (조이) with green hair. This group is mainly marketed as somewhat "hippie" type of music, which certainly the music video reflects by the blatant psychedelic background, kaleidoscope scene, and overall happiness (after all, that is the name of the song!) that one feels while watching the video. They also feature a cute sort of jelly bear sort of creature in the music video that seems to also be their mascot, seen many times in "Happiness". Definitely a very cute song, and a very cute group that I will hope to see more of.

Red Velvet 레드벨벳 - 행복(Happiness)

Four Ladies (포엘) is probably the most surprising out of the groups that I have seen as of yet. Managed by Jade Contents Media, this four member group debuted their first album Move on August 1, 2014 with the song "Move". There is Chany (차니), Yeseul (예슬), J-na (제이나), and Jayoung (자영), and three of the four are former members of MoA. What makes this song so interesting, is the raw sexual nature of it compared to most Kpop I have seen. In fact, it was said by their managing company, " Our strategy is to show raw sexiness. The teasers are just the tip of the iceberg." It's funny they say that though, considering the video shows a lesbian couple multiple times throughout the video. However, to perform in Manila for the October 5th Knation Music Showcase, they have had to change their image. So, concerning what we've seen so far, and the fact that they've had to change to perform, it shows promise in some interesting development for Four Ladies.

포엘(four ladies 4L) - Move(무브)

Lip Service (립서비스) I happened to save last for a reason. First off, I heard this for the first time at Otakon, and it officially was my friends' and my official Otakon 2014 theme song for some unknown reason. Well, except for how catchy it was! While being managed by Now Entertainment, this three member group debuted their first album Yum Yum Yum on February 4, 2014 with the song "Yum Yum Yum" with the leader BiPa (비파) who is Korean-American, Cora (코라), and Anna (애나). What is so impressive is how they could make such a catchy song about food and eating! While they only really featured two of the three for the most part, the dancing and outfits were fun and amusing, while the rapping was absolutely amazing. A plus for how well Lip Service did for their first song!

립서비스 Lipservice - 냠냠냠 Yum Yum Yum

I would say that definitely overall that I have been super excited with all these groups! I can certainly see all these ladies of these groups; 1PS, Bob Girls, Red Velvet, Four Ladies, and Lip Service all have shown promise in creating super good music that I think any Kpop fan would love. Let's hope and wish them luck in their musical endeavors and that they continue to be successful!

The New Kpop Boy Groups of 2014

Of course, the year is not over yet, but certainly there has been an introduction to many new groups and many new songs, by both male and female Kpop groups. Some of the new upcoming groups that have formed that are boy groups are Legend, K-Much, GOT7, JJCC, and LU:KUS.

Legend (전설) is a five man group that is under JK Space's management. They debuted their first album, The Legend on July 8, 2014, with the song "Left Out". Their group is made up of Listen (리슨), who is their main vocalist, Roi (로이) from China, Ryu Jae Hyuk (유제혁), Lito (리토), the rapper, and Lee Changsun (이창선). These five, in their song "Left Out", have a wonderful dance that I think is very snazzy, much like the dance for "Lucifer" by SHINee. I probably make those ties due to the fact that both have tutting in them. The music as well reminds me very much of the typical boy band sound, and a sound reminiscent to Big Bang. I would certainly say this is a group to watch out for good music in the future if it can give off the image of famous Kpop groups already with a newly formed group.

전설 Legend - 미.남. (미련이 남아서) Left Out

Snakehead (가물치), known better as K-Much internationally, is another new group run by Chrome Entertainment. They debuted their album Beyond the Ocean on January 7, 2014, with the songs "What Should I do", "I'm Sorry", and a single "Good to Go". Their group is made up of Kiu (큐) their main vocalist, BornUs (보너스), Loki (로키), G.LOW (지로우) their rapper, and and Ato (아토). Their song "Good to Go" is super funny in my opinion, as they're dressed up in swat gear, and dancing around all synchronized, trying to act cool. The best part of the video, however, is the beginning of the video, where the group is walking home from school and stop to dance with golden helmets in a field. They are then attacked by a sea monster (the digital editing is so-so, making the video even more funny) and are lightning zapped to some building where they are lightning zapped again by a woman who seems to be the queen of the land, pulling them up off the ground. Overall the video is rather funny, and the music is incredibly catchy; once again making it a band to remain interested in.

K-Much (가물치) - Good To Go (뭣 모르고)

GOT7 (갓세븐) is...well exactly what is sounds like—it has seven members in their group. They are currently managed by JYP Entertainment, and debuted their album Got It? on January 15, 2014 with their song, "Girls Girls Girls". Led by leader JB (제이비), there is also Mark (마크) who is Chinese but from Los Angeles, California, Jackson (잭슨) from Hong Kong, Jr. (주니어), Youngjae (영재), BamBam (뱀뱀) from Thailand, and Yugyeom (유겸). Their video "Girls Girls Girls" definitely gives off that vibe of a group of bad boys, especially considering they're hanging out in an underground club in some random shop that some poor girl trying to do the right thing stumbles into. However the actual tune of the song is superb in also providing that vibe, and their acrobatic tricks are wonderful in adding to the bad boy image. Certainly keep your eyes out for more by this group!

GOT7- Girls Girls Girls

JJCC (더블제이씨 and pronounced as Double-JC) is definitely interesting, if partly because of their managing group. Managed by Jackie Chan Group Korea, this is the only group out their under the wing of Jackie Chan, a long time fan of Kpop, where the official name of the group comes from; Jackie Chan's Joint Culture. They debuted their first song March 24, 2014 with the album At First with the song "At First". Made up of the members SimBa (심바), E.Co ( 이코/ formerly Hajun), Eddy (에디) from Los Angeles, California, San Cheong (산청), and Prince Mak (프린스 맥) from Sydney, Australia, and is Chinese-Australian. They were taught to be fluent in English, Korean, and Chinese. Being a group trained by such a famous person certainly has its perks; they had instant publicity as soon as they churned out their first song, which is certainly a song that seems to pull at the heart strings. The tune sounds like one that is serenading you and trying to win you back into their lives as if you've left. I feel that this group has a definite chance at becoming a powerhouse of Kpop.

JJCC (더블제이씨) - At First (첨엔 다 그래)

LU:KUS (루커스) is one cool group managed by Box Media. Although originally four of the members were part of another band run by another company, they left said group and joined with the fifth member for for LU:KUS, which is short for "Look at Us". Debuting So Into U on July 4, 2014 with "So Into U", the band members offered a super catchy song to listen to. Leader J.One (제이원), Donghyun (동현), Kyungjin (경진), Choi (석훈), and Jinwan (진완) offer a song that is upbeat and one that will definitely get you dancing along. Not only is the scenery interesting and the costumes rather an interesting mix of fashion meets matrix style, the music and lyrics flow to become a catchy tune that will keep you interested. Definitely a band I look forward to listening to in the future.

LU:KUS(루커스) - So Into U(기가막혀)

Overall, with what I have seen so far come out in the ways of new bands formed in the Kpop genre, I certainly hold onto hope that it will become even better than it already is. These bands; Legend, K-Much, GOT7, JJCC and LU:KUS, all have unique sounds and interesting enough back stories in their songs to keep anyone entertained for days. Let us hope that they continue to produce more music!

 

Comic News: First Look: AVENGERS & X-MEN: AXIS #2 INVERSION Variant cover

                              image credit: Marvel Comics



Here is a look at the Avengers & X-Men Axis # 2 Variant Cover. Featuring Cyclops and Magneto.



AVENGERS & X-MEN: AXIS #2 (OF 9) RICK REMENDER (W) • ADAM KUBERT (A)
Cover by JIM CHEUNG
YOUNG GUNS VARIANT COVER BY MAHMUD ASRAR
INVERSION VARIANT COVER BY KRIS ANKS
ACT I: THE RED SUPREMACY
• The heroes of the Marvel Universe storm the beaches of Red Skull’s Genoshian Reeducation camps. What they discover within will lead to a bleak new era.
• The revelation of Tony Stark’s dark secret promises to shatter the fragile alliance between A and X.
• The all-new Captain America pays a terrible price.
• Nova’s attempt at solving the crisis leads to disaster.
• Magneto betrays his alliance to join an army of evil.
32 PGS./Rated T+ …$3.99