Until Then Puts Filipino Game Dev Scene On the Map: A Hauntingly Beautiful Time Travel Romance Adventure

Until Then is a very special kinetic visual novel and breakout success from Filipino indie game developer Polychroma Studios. Admittedly, I knew nothing about the gamdev scene in the Philippines before stumbling upon this game by chance, and I’m so glad I did. Blending real-world events with a perfectly executed branching timeline narrative, warm pixel … Continue reading Until Then Puts Filipino Game Dev Scene On the Map: A Hauntingly Beautiful Time Travel Romance Adventure

Breath of the Wild Switch Japanese Collector’s Edition: What’s in the Box?

Breath of the Wild is considered by many to be one of the better Legend of Zelda games (if not the best of all time).  But did you know that Nintendo released multiple different special and collector’s editions? Let’s take a look at the Japanese version of the Collector’s Edition for the Switch. Breath of … Continue reading Breath of the Wild Switch Japanese Collector’s Edition: What’s in the Box?

Laid-Back Anime Locations: Yamanashi Prefecture

When it comes to Yamanashi Prefecture locations, one anime stands out — Yuru Camp, a.k.a. Laid-Back Camp. Without Yuru Camp, many anime fans wouldn’t know that this rural, inland, and mountainous prefecture even existed.  That’s understandable, because Yamanashi isn't as touristy as Hakone (Kanagawa) or Nikko (Tochigi). But Yamanashi does feature the scenic and natural … Continue reading Laid-Back Anime Locations: Yamanashi Prefecture

Akira Famicom Japanese Game: What’s In The Box? – Product Details & Images

The movie Akira is an influential masterpiece of anime. But did you know that they made video games based on the animated film?Let’s take a look at the first Akira video game, Akira for the Famicom (Japanese NES). About Akira on Famicom The anime film Akira came out in 1988. It’s a loose adaptation of … Continue reading Akira Famicom Japanese Game: What’s In The Box? – Product Details & Images

What Are Japanese Temples and Shrines? A Guide

If you’re planning a trip to Japan, you will definitely want to visit some Japanese temples and shrines. Temples and shrines are beautiful places. More than just religious places, many are also historically or culturally significant as well.    So, what is a Japanese temple? And how does a temple differ from a shrine? At first … Continue reading What Are Japanese Temples and Shrines? A Guide

Understanding Japanese: Sumimasen (済みません) vs. Gomenasai (御免なさい)

Two essential phrases When it comes to understanding Japanese, few phrases are more essential than sumimasen and gomenasai. Both of these are frequently translated as “I’m sorry.” Naturally, given Japan’s well-deserved reputation as a polite society, these two phrases will get you through a lot of situations in Japanese culture.  But which one should you … Continue reading Understanding Japanese: Sumimasen (済みません) vs. Gomenasai (御免なさい)