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Time of India
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Why final battle in Anime Is almost never about the fight
Credits: SlashFilm In many beloved anime, the ending is far more about heart and story than about who throws the hardest punch. In fact, anime endings often serve as 'the crescendo of emotion, the culmination of journeys, and the punctuation mark on storytelling'. Creators frequently design final battles as a collision of feelings and beliefs. Masashi Kishimoto, the creator of Naruto , deliberately made Naruto's last duel with Sasuke 'about emotion, not flashy ninja powers'. He rejected bigger explosions in favor of a raw fistfight where two friends finally settle their complicated feelings. The final result is an emotional climax, rather than any other eye-catching fight scene. Beyond the physical fight: Emotions and ideals Final confrontations often reflect characters' innermost struggles and values. For example, in Avatar: The Last Airbender the ultimate fight between Aang and Fire Lord Ozai isn't just about bending elements—it's a moral test. Aang must 'confront his own inner demons and find a path to victory that doesn't compromise his values'. He faces a choice: avenge or forgive? The tension comes from his beliefs, not just his bending skills. Similarly, My Hero Academia treats its final war as 'not just a battle — it's the emotional conclusion of everything My Hero Academia has built'. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 5 Books Warren Buffett Wants You to Read In 2025 Blinkist: Warren Buffett's Reading List Undo Deku's final attack in that climax is described as 'as much an emotional release' as it is destructive force. It's the weight of all Deku's growth and sacrifices that makes the scene powerful. Even when heroes face villains toe-to-toe, the stakes are often symbolic. In Cowboy Bebop , Spike Spiegel's last duel with his nemesis Vicious isn't scored by punches landed but by the confrontation with his own past. One analysis notes Spike's 'final confrontation with his past brings closure to his enigmatic character'. The fight isn't just physical; it's Spike finally coming to terms with old losses and regrets. In Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood , the Elric brothers' final battle ties up years of sacrifice and truth. They confront horrible secrets and learn that 'the bonds of brotherhood can overcome even the greatest of trials'. The winning moment is as much about understanding and unity as it is about defeating the villain. Iconic Showdowns that Tell a Story Credits: Sportskeeda Across anime history, many finales are remembered for their heart. In Naruto Shippuden , after years of fighting and friendship, Naruto and Sasuke end with both losing an arm – a symbolic choice by Kishimoto to highlight emotion over spectacle. The visual shock of the injury underlines the personal cost of their reconciliation. In Attack on Titan 's final season, the epic battle against the Rumbling gives way to a private moment between Armin and Eren. Their last conversation – two old friends finally explaining themselves – is deeply moving. It's even noted that this 'was the last conversation that both friends were going to have,' providing a painful but necessary closure. This scene isn't about any giant Titan blows; it's about understanding and forgiveness. Even in worlds of superpowers and magic, the true victory often lies in what is resolved. These finales 'transcend mere storytelling, offering profound insights into love, loss, and the human condition'. Whether it's a hero choosing peace over vengeance, friends reconciling, or the defeat of hatred itself, the final encounter amplifies the series' themes. Fans may remember the visual flashes of a battle, but they keep long in their hearts the tears, smiles, and revelations that come at the end. Ultimately, anime's last fights resonate because they conclude characters' journeys – not just by settling scores, but by settling souls. Check out our list of the latest Hindi , English , Tamil , Telugu , Malayalam , and Kannada movies . Don't miss our picks for the best Hindi movies , best Tamil movies, and best Telugu films .
Buzz Feed
25-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Buzz Feed
45 Most Iconic Anime Characters Ever Created
Japan has produced some of the most memorable and influential characters in pop culture through anime. Many of them are larger than life — we're talking giant mecha pilots, warriors with enormous swords, sorcerers with unfathomable powers, and Pocket Monsters who are equal parts adorable and fierce. At the same time, Eastern animation has brought us plenty of gritty, relatable protagonists, from Cowboy Bebop's Faye Valentine, who is quick to joke around and slow to trust, to Evangelion's Shinji, whose struggle with depression has resonated with countless viewers. If you're a hardcore anime fan, you'll definitely enjoy this roundup of the most iconic characters the genre has to offer. Scroll down to see if your fave made the list! Tatsu — The Way of the Househusband Did you ever think you'd watch a show that's described as a "cozy gangster comedy"? Three words that you just don't expect to follow each other or describe the same show or character, but that's exactly what The Way of the Househusband is. Tatsu is the titular househusband, a retired Yakuza crime boss known as "the immortal dragon" who now fills his days with the washing and folding and preparing meals for his wife. For the simple fact that he contains multitudes–portraying both the golden retriever boyfriend and the famed criminal mastermind, tropes in many beloved animes–he deserves a spot as an icon on this list. Team Rocket — Pokémon It would be hard to separate Jessie and James or even Meowth from each other, so Team Rocket gets its own space as a unit. Ash and Pikachu wouldn't be the heroes they are without formidable opponents, and watching them destroy Jessie, James and Meowth at every chance they got never gets old! From their outfits and hair to their voices, everything about Team Rocket screams iconic, but its their insane disguise plots that really makes them stand out as top tier villains! Taiga Aisaka —Toradora! She didn't earn the nickname Palmtop Tiger for nothing! Taiga Asaka is both the cutest and fiercest shoujo love interest possibly ever. Her penchant for going from zero to 100 is alarming but charming, especially since that could either be in the form of anger or the form of despair. She's so feisty and tough that you forget she's also soft inside, which makes her moments of sadness hit even harder. Kyouko Hori — Horimiya Kyouko Hori was representation for so many kinds of girls on screen: the overworked eldest daughter, the misunderstood star student, and also a girl who likes a little power play in her romantic relationships. That last one is a bold addition to add to a teen romance drama, but it says a lot about her character–feeling the need to always be in control and manage everything in her life leaves a part of her yearning for a loss of control, and having an understanding partner like Izumi Miyamura meet her needs is important, even if it took a bit to get him on board. Strong and powerful, but also vulnerable–she's a complex and deeply human character with a lot to admire. Nana O. — NANA Has a cooler anime girl ever existed than rockstar Nana, who is not only effortlessly chic and talented and beloved, but also still kind to people and not an egomaniac? I'd say no, and her best friend, Nana K. would certainly agree. Her role as the cool, famous girl who has it all but still yearns for different things offered such an overlooked perspective, especially when compared to the wants and needs of her same-name counterpart, Nana K., who was on a more normal path yet desired parts of Nana O.'s world, finding that they left her emptier than before. Tony Tony Chopper — One Piece A pint-sized human-reindeer hybrid with a name so nice you have to say it twice, Tony Tony Chopper is absolutely unforgettable. He might look a little silly with his giant antlers and hat twice the size of his body, but he's not to be underestimated: he's a brilliant doctor who can heal almost any illness or injury, and he has the ability to shapeshift. You'd definitely want this kooky critter on your side in a crisis. Satoru Gojo — Jujutsu Kaisen Satoru Gojo is quite a cocky guy — but can we really blame him? He's one of the most powerful sorcerers in the world, with special abilities that haven't been demonstrated in centuries. And yet he has a sincere streak — as a teacher at Tokyo Jujutsu High, he's a kind and patient mentor to his students, passionate about passing on his supernatural knowledge. His multifaceted personality has earned him a special place in fans' hearts. Misa Amane — Death Note Misa Amane isn't just memorable for her role as a tragic heroine in Death Note, standing by Light's side even as he uses and manipulates her. She's also beloved for her edgy style, inspired by Japan's Gothic Lolita subculture. Go to any anime convention and you'll see plenty of cosplayers sporting her signature blonde pigtails and layered jewelry. Dio Brando — JoJo's Bizarre Adventure JoJo's Bizarre Adventure features dozens of iconic heroes and villains, many of whom could be included on this list simply due to their… well… bizarre names. (Seriously — there is a character named Notorious B.I.G. on this show.) Yet Dio Brando might be the most memorable of them all. Sure, he's chillingly evil, willing to go to extreme lengths for absolute power — but he's also a badass vampire oozing with charisma, and therefore he's a certified fan fave. Faye Valentine — Cowboy Bebop The bounty hunting crew in Cowboy Bebop would be nowhere without Faye Valentine, a former thief who switched sides to join forces with Spike Siegel and his motley gang of sidekicks. When we first meet Faye, she's sarcastic and unwilling to let her guard down. As the series goes on, she learns to trust her fellow passengers on the Bebop and even opens her heart to the power of friendship. Arsène Lupin III — Lupin III Thanks to his remarkable skills and intellect, Lupin III went on to become the world's greatest thief. While his manga counterpart has engaged in some especially questionable behavior, the gentleman thief presented in anime managed to charm his way into our hearts and has thus had a lasting effect on pop culture. Shōtarō Kaneda — Akira Leader of a biker gang known as the Capsules, Kaneda is thrust into an epic war in the futuristic city of Neo-Tokyo after his friend Tetsuo develops psychic powers. That shot of his sliding on his bike alone made him a pop culture icon. However, because Akira brought greater attention to anime worldwide, Kaneda has become one of anime's most recognizable heroes. Ichigo Kurosaki — Bleach Even though he could already see ghosts, Ichigo was a regular high school kid before gaining the powers of a Soul Reaper. Standing in for the Reaper who gave him his powers, Ichigo fights to protect others from the evil Hollows while guiding good wholes to the spirit world. With his giant sword and cool design, Ichigo has long been a recognizable figure in shonen anime, but his heroic nature is what helped keep this Reaper alive in the eyes of fans. Kirito — Sword Art Online This swordsman helped jumpstart the isekai trend. Trapped in a VR game where game-over means literal death, Kirito fought to return to the real world, leveling up until he became the strongest player in SAO. Many people have understandably taken with Kirito being overpowered and somehow winning the hearts of every girl that crosses his path. However, Kirito's tragic backstory, outstanding skills, and likable character still make him an enthralling protagonist. You also gotta love his sick outfit and dual blades. Stand aside, Neo. Yugi Muto/Yami Yugi — Yu-Gi-Oh! If you played Yu-Gi-Oh! growing up, you'll definitely remember this duelist and his unforgettable hairdo. Carrying the spirit of an Egyptian pharaoh in his necklace, Yugi masters the art of Duel Monsters and becomes the King of Games. Whether he's playing with Dark Magicians, tiny Kurbiohs, or the Egyptian Gods themselves, Yugi always has the Heart of the Cards on his side. Killua Zoldyck — Hunter x Hunter One half of the dynamic duo in Hunter x Hunter, Killua is the cutest cold-blooded assassin you've ever seen. He balances the optimism of Gon, and similar to Sasuke, has an electric attack that'll end just about anybody. His growth throughout the series is great to watch as well as the bond between him and Gon, which gets stronger as they defeat foe after foe. Their adventures together are not only entertaining but heartwarming as a kid with a messed up family tries to help his best friend find his dad. Izuku Midoriya/Deku — My Hero Academia Though he was born without a superpower in a world full of supes, this young lad still aspired to become a superhero like his idol, All Might, who passes his power onto him. As a child, we all wished we could become a superhero, and Deku embodies that child who finally had his dream come true. Rem — Re: Zero-Starting Life in Another World Rem has been consistently labeled one of the greatest waifus in anime, if not the greatest. Audiences fell in love with this blue-haired maid due to her cute and supportive nature, and so they were left utterly heartbroken that the protagonist chose Emilia over her. Rem was the loving friend Subaru needed in his new life of dying time and time again, and anyone would be lucky to have their own Rem in their lives. Kamina — Gurren Laggan This legendary hero taught us all what it truly means to be a man. Motivating his buddy Simon throughout their adventures on the surface, Kamina became a source of inspiration for him and many fans of this mecha classic. So it was a shock to everyone that the series killed Kamina after just eight episodes. While he may have died, the impact he left on his friends has made him and his macho spirit eternal. Rei Ayanami — Evangelion This mysterious EVA pilot has entranced fans since she first appeared. Born with the DNA of both Shinji's mother and the Angel Lilith, Rei acts as if her only purpose is to pilot the EVA, rarely speaking or doing anything social with other people. We can all relate to Rei, as every one of us longs for meaning and companionship in our lives, so watching her find joy and purpose with her new friends is so heartwarming to watch. Akira Fudo/Devilman — Devilman After overcoming the demon spirit Amon, Akira gains the power of the devil while retaining his human heart. As demons rise up around the world, Akira uses his evil powers to violently fight them all, but he is eventually forced to face the humans he tried to protect. Akira Devilman has become most well-known due to the recent series on Netflix, but this fiendish hero has influenced anime for decades due to his extremely dark and tragic tale. Gon Freecss — Hunter x Hunter The kid who adventures to find his father, Gon is another bright and happy character who sees the good in people even when they might not deserve it and trains to become the best because his goal is always the priority that nothing can stop. His eventual friendship with not only Killua, but Leorio and Kurapika make for a great band of brothers chasing their dreams together. Although they eventually split, Gon and Killua become a fierce pair that not many can contend with. His journey throughout the series shows his maturity and growth, and at times the pain that one would suffer when lives are on the line and comrades are lost. His battle with Pitou still gives me goosebumps to this day and is probably the darkest and grimest version of Gon you ever get to see. Astro Boy — Astro Boy Created by a scientist to replace his dead son, Astro is later sold to a robot circus before being adopted by another professor. Known for his adorable appearance and red rocket shoes, Astro became a benchmark superhero whose popular 1960s TV show became the first anime to reach the US. Sailor Moon — Sailor Moon This savior in a sailor suit gave rise to the magical girl genre. While she grew up on Earth as Usagi Tsukino, she eventually learns she is the reincarnation of the princess of the Moon Kingdom. Gifted with a brooch that can transform her into Sailor Moon, she assembles a team of fellow Guardians and uses her powers to defend her adopted planet from the forces of evil. Not only is she one of the most influential characters in anime, but she is also one of the greatest female superheroes in pop culture. Vash the Stampede —Trigun This optimistic wanted man can't seem to get away from trouble, but when your head is worth as much as his, it makes sense why he can't escape it. Whether it is his naive optimism, his unwillingness to kill, or his playful nature you really can't help but fall in love with Vash as he runs from bounty hunters and thugs to avoid further bloodshed. He has been dealt a bad hand, and although he is cheerful and smiling from ear to ear, there's a dark past that has also made him feel lonely and hurt by his trauma. This speaks to his constant need to run away and keep any new friends he makes at a distance since past betrayals and loved ones lost, due to his bounty, have formed his behavior. Totoro — My Neighbor Totoro Since the film's release, this giant fuzzball has acted as the mascot for Studio Ghibli, making it among the most recognizable creatures in anime. On par with Mickey Mouse and Winnie the Pooh, this massive cat-like spirit became a beloved animated icon to audiences worldwide, capturing the sense of childhood innocence and wide-eyed imagination in its purest form. What kid wouldn't want to play with this cuddly cat-like spirit? Saitama — One-Punch Man This guy isn't your average Man of Steel. After training so hard to become a hero, Saitama had gotten so strong that he could take down any foe with a single punch. As a result, he could no longer find any enjoyment in what he does and became indifferent to almost everything. Even so, he still uses his unstoppable power to protect the people of Z City, which all makes him one of the most unconventional shonen heroes out there. Eren Yeager — Attack on Titan After watching a Titan eat his mother, Eren vows revenge against these colossal invaders and joins the fight against them, eventually learning to become a Titan himself. Though he starts out as a hero, Eren becomes more callous and murderous until he vows to protect his people by exterminating all other life. Thanks to his complex character and the show's massive popularity, Eren has gone on to become one of the most iconic protagonists and antagonists in anime history. Yusuke Urameshi — Yuyu Hakusho Nothing like setting a tone for a character's traits and personality then by seeing Yusuke being the school punk whooping on Kuwabara and being feared by classmates to then sacrificing himself to save a kid. His growth throughout the series is still one of my favorites as we learn how his upbringing was the cause for his bad behavior. But even with all the trauma he experienced, he still finds love and companionship with not only Keiko but with his comrades as well. His fearlessness and willingness to step up when the odds are stacked against him makes for a great shonen protagonist and he was one of my all-time favorite characters growing up. The Dark Tournament saga still holds up as one of the best arcs in anime history and is worth a rewatch if you haven't seen it for some time. Lelouch Lamperouge — Code Geass Formerly a prince of Britannia, Lelouch becomes gifted with the power of Geass and leads a rebellion against the Holy Britannian Empire as the head of the Black Knights. While his narcissism and extreme methods don't make him the most likable character, but the bonds that he forges with his allies have made him a compelling antihero. Motoko Kusanagi — Ghost in the Shell With her brain inhabiting a cybernetic body, Major Motoko Kusanagi investigates crimes in Japan in this classic cyberpunk anime. You do not want to mess with this purple-haired policeman, as her strength, skill, and intellect have proven her to be a force to be reckoned with. At the same time, the way questions her humanity and identity as a cyborg has made her one of the most compelling and thought-provoking figures in science fiction. L Lawliet — Death Note This strange but intelligent detective was the perfect adversary for Light Yagami. After the latter begins his worldwide murder spree with the Death Note, L enters a game of cat and mouse with Light as he tries to bring the killer to justice. This eccentric genius really made his mark on anime fans, as he has been ranked high on many people's lists of anime's greatest heroes, partially thanks to Alessandro Juliana's acclaimed performance as the voice of L. Vegeta — Dragon Ball While Goku was a pretty standard upright hero, Vegeta had a long and winding journey from being a genocidal villain to a loving husband, father, and overall hero. For years, Vegeta's ego was dominated by his desire to surpass Goku, but after getting left in the dust time and time again, the Saiyan Prince was forced to rethink his purpose in life. He eventually accepted his limitations and began fighting for peace and love instead of just pride. Light Yagami — Death Note After gaining the power to kill anyone he wants with the Death Note, Light Yagami seeks to become the god of a new world by eliminating those he feels deserve to die. While Light is a manipulative and cold-hearted villain, audiences worldwide have become drawn to him as a character who believes he's doing what's best for the world. Levi Ackerman — Attack on Titan Considered humanity's strongest soldier, Levi leads an elite squad in the Survey Corps in their war against the Titans. This stone-faced fighter has been repeatedly ranked as the series's most popular character, and I can see why. Calm, cool, and capable of some killer moves on the battlefield, Levi swung his way into all of our hearts with his epic battles, dry wit, and heartwrenching origins. Asuka Langley — Evangelion This EVA pilot is a textbook example of the tsundere archetype. Though she is derisive to almost everyone around her, especially Shinji, she grew to like and respect him as they worked together to fight the Angels. At the same time, Asuka faces monsters of her own as she sinks into depression. Having dedicated her whole life to piloting the EVA to validate herself in the eyes of others, she loses the will to live after becoming too weak to fight, forcing her to confront her own past trauma. As a result, Asuka has remained one of the most popular and complex characters in anime history. Guts — Berserk To say this mercenary has had a rough life would be a massive understatement. In this dark fantasy anime, Guts is forced to endure countless hardships throughout his life, but being forced to fight alongside the Band of the Hawk, he begins to grow out of this darkness and become the anti-hero that audiences know and love. Edward Elric — Fullmetal Alchemist In an attempt to revive their mother, he and his brother, Alphonse, suffer from alchemic dismemberment in a failed ritual, literally costing Edward an arm and a leg. Donning some prosthetic limbs, he and Alphonse travel the world to find the Philosopher's Stone and restore their bodies. Walking a fine line between smart and stubborn, Edward has grown to be a strong and heroic alchemist as he and his allies take on the dreaded Homunculi. Sasuke Uchiha — Naruto Peanut butter and jelly, Jay-Z and Beyonce, Naruto and Sasuke. It's like you can't have one without the other on this list. Sasuke, like many duos in anime, balances the show's protagonist and offers a rivalry-turned friendship that holds up to the likes of Vegeta and Goku. These two arguably have the greatest story arc just throughout many episodes and multiple shows. Sasuke having his tragic backstory, equally if not more horrendous, than Naruto's and being his adversary to the point of losing a limb is one of the greatest friend to foe back to friendship arcs I have seen in any anime. It also must be said that he's an absolute badass and has been a part of some of the most memorable moments of the anime. Naruto Uzumaki — Naruto Though he was rejected by his village for housing the Nine-Tailed Demon Fox in his body, Naruto aspired to become their leader to gain their respect. This ninja hero has been worldwide for his energetic character, outstanding development, and his distinctive style of running. Don't pretend you haven't tried it out at least once in your life. Monkey D Luffy — One Piece It's hard to find an anime fan who doesn't know about this hero. After eating the Gum Gum Fruit, Luffy gains the power to stretch his body. Setting sail across the Grand Line with the Straw Hat Pirates, Luffy seeks out the legendary One Piece to become the King of the Pirates. Like many shonen protagonists, this happy-go-lucky pirate isn't always the sharpest knife in the drawer. However, he has proven himself to be a brilliant fighter and a true hero as he has repeatedly risked his life to protect his crew, and after two decades, he still comes out on top. Ash & Pikachu — Pokémon I picked both of these best friends for this one because there is hardly a time when they're apart. Aspiring to become a Pokémon Master, Ash Ketchum ends up getting Pikachu as his first partner, and the two have been inseparable ever since, fighting countless Trainers and collecting Gym Badges to become a champion. Though Ash has caught and trained many strong Pokémon in the last 20 years, Pikachu will always be his number one partner. Shinji Ikari — Evangelion While he might not have been the courageous, optimistic, and moral protagonist audiences wanted, that's what made him such a great character. Shinji embodies the Evangelion creator's struggle with depression as he struggles to find acceptance and overcome his self-loathing in the backdrop of his war with the Angels. Shinji gave audiences to gaze into the darkest depths of the human psyche as they watched him question his purpose in life, making him the hero that audiences needed, but not the one they deserved. Spike Spiegel — Cowboy Bebop A bounty hunter traveling across the Solar System aboard the Bebop, Spike takes part in many cosmic adventures with his ragtag crew of galactic misfits. While he may act like a chill guy, Spike is haunted by his past as a member of the criminal Red Dragon Syndicate and his long-lost love, Julia. Nevertheless, Spike has long been viewed as one of the coolest characters to come out of anime, and even he faced death, he literally knew how to go out with a bang. Goku — Dragon Ball This Saiyan warrior is the quintessential shonen hero, having inspired many iconic anime heroes that followed him. Sent to Earth as a baby to destroy humanity, Goku ends up becoming its greatest protector. While this muscle-headed alien might not always do what is right or even logical, Goku will stop at nothing to protect those around him from evil. With countless transformations and some hella strong pipes, Goku has stood as one of the most legendary heroes in all of anime. Who would you add to the list?
Forbes
22-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Forbes
Alex Davis On Why FiGGYZ Could Be The Future Of Affordable Collectibles
The upcoming 'Cowboy Bebop' FiGGYZ set. With a few weeks away until the FiGGYZ launch, I spoke with the company's CEO Alex Davis to understand why these are an interesting and different type of collectible. Alex is also the CEO of First 4 Figures, which has made a worthy name for themselves with excellent statues of famous pop-culture characters. To get an idea of their output, feel free to check out my recent review of their Gravity Suit Samus statue from Metroid Prime. It's beautifully done and undertaken by people who clearly know and care about the host property. So this is why I thought FiGGYZ was interesting, and why I wanted to talk with Alex to find out more. 'With First 4 Figures, we've built a premium collectible business, but the truth is, those statues are expensive, large, and limited in availability. That makes them inaccessible to most people, especially in today's economic climate. I saw a real need for something smaller, affordable, and more widely available. People still want to own pieces of their fandom, and we wanted to give everyone that chance. FiGGYZ was created to be the opposite of high-end exclusivity. It's designed to bring joy, variety, and collectibility to a much bigger audience. 'FiGGYZ takes a pixel art approach, but more on that in a minute. The core product is a soft PVC character with magnets on the back, allowing it to snap onto a metal background. Each background is reversible, so collectors can flip it to get a fresh display whenever they like. We've also added QR codes to bridge the physical and digital world. This connects each FiGGYZ to our app, where there's a lot more in development, including the FiGGYZ Verse: an online world where you can view collections, earn evolution packs, and play FiGGYZ mini-games. The experience goes beyond the collectible itself. And then there are the chase variants: Gold (1%), Silver (3%), and Bronze (6%) backgrounds randomly inserted and not sold separately. It adds a layer of excitement and rarity to each wave.' FEATURED | Frase ByForbes™ Unscramble The Anagram To Reveal The Phrase Pinpoint By Linkedin Guess The Category Queens By Linkedin Crown Each Region Crossclimb By Linkedin Unlock A Trivia Ladder The pixel art approach obviously works great for classic gaming series such as 'Sonic The Hedgehog'. The pixel art was an interesting choice, so I wanted to know why Alex had gone down that specific stylistic path. 'Pixel art is timeless. It appeals to those of us who grew up in the 8-bit, 16-bit, and 32-bit eras, but it's also become massively popular again with modern indie games. Even younger audiences, thanks to games like Roblox and Minecraft, are already comfortable with blocky or pixel-like designs. So it feels universal, not retro. What makes FiGGYZ stand out is that we've gone all-in on this format. No one's really making full collectible ranges in pixel form like we are.' Obviously, for something like this to work, you're going to need a lot of major properties to sign on, and the line-up that I was shown was already very impressive. There's also a decent momentum of releases planned as well, as Alex explains. 'There's literally a launch every single week. We have so many IPs involved that we had to build a schedule that makes sure every fandom gets its spotlight, something for everyone. We officially launch on June 4th with five IPs: Sonic, Banjo-Kazooie, Cowboy Bebop, Street Fighter, and Shenmue. The following week adds three more IPs, and then we continue dropping one to two new waves each week. This weekly rhythm keeps collectors engaged and always looking forward to what's next. 'But we're going a lot further than that. We're building what we call the FiGGYZ Verse, a digital universe where fans can showcase their full collections, connect with others, and unlock new experiences. 'Again, this ties into the QR code on the back of each FiGGYZ that connects to our app. When you scan it, it adds that collectible to your FiGGYZ World profile. From there, you can view your collection digitally, unlock badges, and earn achievements. Each FiGGYZ has magnets at the rear, making them very versatile. 'One of the big features inside the FiGGYZ Verse is the evolution mini game. When you play, you'll receive digital packs that contain 10 cards, five character cards, and five background cards. These cards evolve over time through simple game mechanics, gradually unlocking lore surrounding three original characters that exist only in the FiGGYZ Verse. 'The great thing here is that if you manage to evolve one of your characters all the way to its final Legendary Evolution, we will send you a free physical FiGGYZ of that evolved character. You cannot buy it. It's a real, tangible reward that proves you made it all the way. It's our way of connecting physical and digital in a meaningful and rewarding way. "We've always been known for video game collectibles, but with FiGGYZ, we're intentionally looking to go much broader. Movies, anime, comics, music artists, VTubers, sports teams, you name it. The vision is for FiGGYZ to become a platform where any fandom can live and be celebrated. So in the future, whatever slice of pop-culture you celebrate, there should be a FiGGYZ that speaks to you.' Finishing up, I was also sent a few FiGGYZ to check out for myself. The first of these being Spike from Cowboy Bebop. Having interviewed the likes of Shinichiro Watanabe, Kimitoshi Yamane, and Yoko Kanno, I have a certain investment in the anime, and the pixellated Spike was very nicely done (shown top). I also think that after the dreaded soul-draining Funko Pops, we actually need some decent and affordable collectibles for fans of games and anime. By contrast, these FiGGYZ genuinely feel viable and something I'd actually want to own. The fact that they are magnetic also makes them nicely multi-purpose and can be put pretty much anywhere. In any case, the first wave of FiGGYZ will be released this June, with details revealed on the official site. Follow me on X, Facebook and YouTube. I also manage Mecha Damashii and am currently featured in the Giant Robots exhibition currently touring Japan.
The Mainichi
10-05-2025
- Entertainment
- The Mainichi
'Hand-drawn is best': Anime director Shinichiro Watanabe on 'Lazarus'
TOKYO -- "Lazarus," the first new original anime by internationally acclaimed director Shinichiro Watanabe in six years, is now streaming on the Cartoon Network, and notably retains a hand-drawn style going against the industry trend toward computer graphics (CG) and artificial intelligence (AI). The 59-year-old director, also known for the works "Cowboy Bebop" and "Samurai Champloo," says that music is the source of energy to inspire the works and while Lazarus is a TV series, "I make the episodes thinking of them as 20-minute movies." The foundation of Watanabe's creativity was laid in his hometown, in the city of Ayabe in the northern part of Kyoto Prefecture, where he lived until his high school years. While in junior high school, he and a good friend held "research sessions" on film and anime. "We would say things like, 'I hear the filmmaker (Federico) Fellini is amazing.' 'Oh really?' But we couldn't see his movies. There were no video rentals or online streaming in those days." Watanabe read all he could on film theory through books from the library. Since there was no theater in Ayabe, he went to the neighboring city of Maizuru or Fukuchiyama to devour all he could. "I watched movies repeatedly after breaks in between and they left a deep impression," Watanabe recalled. Watanabe got his information on Western music through magazines and FM radio delivered by public broadcaster NHK. He would read each monthly magazine issue from cover to cover until the next one came out. He could afford about one record a month, listening to it every day and memorizing the English lyrics. "There was so little information in the countryside you'd be surprised. But the experience was profound. It was a rich experience. Having little information is not necessarily a bad thing," said Watanabe. While he also wished to become a filmmaker, he decided to aim to become a director of anime, which was booming. Those around him recommended going to university, but he instead went to Tokyo in 1984 after graduating from high school, thinking, "Four years of college is a waste. I want to create works quickly." Watanabe visited Tokyo's many movie theaters daily while doing part-time work delivering liquor among other tasks. Half a year later he found work at Nippon Sunrise Inc., present-day Sunrise, the originator of the popular "Gundam" franchise and now a brand of Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc. "The large number of movies I saw back then are still inside me and that's what I base myself on," Watanabe reflected. It was also a habit for him to visit imported record shops and check up on lesser-known artists. "I was busy every day" between my part-time work, movies and record store visits, he recalled with a laugh. The first of Watanabe's works that he directed entirely himself, 1998's "Cowboy Bebop" was a hit overseas. "I worked hard to hone my skills, and I made it with all my heart. I never thought for a millisecond that it would be accepted overseas. Perhaps my taste for American films, which I grew up liking, was a good fit for the American people," he added analytically. Watanabe's newest project, "Lazarus," was wholly funded by the U.S. Cartoon Network, and is receiving acclaim for its filmlike visuals, audio effects and stylish soundtrack, among other things. "John Wick" director Chad Stahelski designed and directed the action sequences. On the project, Watanabe enthused, "I reaffirmed the appeal of hand-drawn animation. There's a lot of noise about making things easier using CG and AI, but it's not true. It's hand-drawn animation that's the best." Watanabe's works also give a glimpse of evolution. "I want to be constantly changing. I want to constantly update. If I keep repeating what I did before, I'll stop growing. Creativity will also weaken. I don't make anime by watching anime. If I make anime inspired by other genres, it'll become an original work." Now approaching 60, Watanabe mentioned, "When I was young, I wasn't sure whether to do movies or animation. I've made a lot of animated films, so I hope to fulfill the other dream of mine, a live-action film, one of these days."
Time of India
04-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
5 anime that left a lasting impact with just one season
There is a certain allure to anime that tells its tale in a single season, even in a medium where lengthy series frequently take center stage. Despite their brief running times, these programs are able to hold viewers' attention with gripping stories, endearing characters, and powerful concepts. Whatever the cause of the brief existence, several of these anime only lasted one season but were nevertheless well-liked by viewers. Today, let's examine five of those. 5 anime with just one season Cowboy Bebop - Crunchyroll Sunrise produced and animated it under the direction of a production team known as Hajime Yatate, which consists of director Shinichirō Watanabe, scriptwriter Keiko Nobumoto, character designer Toshihiro Kawamoto, mechanical designer Kimitoshi Yamane, and composer Yoko Kanno. The 26-episode series, which is set in 2071, centers on the life of a roaming bounty-hunting crew on board the Bebop starship. Death Parade - Crunchyroll Death Parade is a psychological thriller anime series produced by Madhouse and written, directed, and produced by Yuzuru Tachikawa in Japan. In Death Parade, Decim, an enigmatic bartender and arbitrator at the Quindecim bar where people who pass away simultaneously are sent to decide their fate, is the protagonist. Hellsing Ultimate - Crunchyroll I'm still pissed off for how Walter was turned evil in Hellsing Ultimate Since its premiere in early 2006, Hellsing Ultimate has been one of the greatest vampire anime to ever appear on television. Ten episodes, each lasting at least forty minutes, comprised Hellsing Ultimate's 2014 finale. These episodes told a gruesome and captivatingly sinister tale of humanity and what it really means to be a monster. Parasyte: The Maxim - Crunchyroll I love Parasyte The Maxim but I don't know anyone else who has seen this magnificent series. In 2014 and 2015, Japan released two live-action adaptations of the manga. Madhouse's adaptation of the anime television series, Parasyte-the maxim, ran in Japan from October 2014 to March 2015. The series centers on Shinichi Izumi, a senior in high school, who is the target of a parasitic organism's unsuccessful attempt to take over his brain. Samurai Champloo - Crunchyroll The Japanese historical adventure anime Samurai Champloo was released in 2004. Hip hop and other anachronistic cultural allusions are mixed with traditional aspects in the series' fictitious depiction of Edo era Japan. The show chronicles the adventures of Ronin Jin, a vagabond outlaw, and tea waitress Fuu. These one-season anime gems deserve a spot on your watchlist, so what are you waiting for? Start streaming them today!
