Hello everyone!
I'm excited to announce that the Reploid Research Lavatory has moved to Dr. Cossack's server on Interordi.com!
This blog will remain archived here for the time being, and though I haven't decided yet, I may continue to mirror my future blog posts here as well. Comments will remain disabled on this blog, however.
Please update your bookmarks and feeds to the new site! Thanks to Blogspot for giving me my start. And thanks to all my readers!
See you on the other side!
Monday, September 6, 2010
Friday, September 3, 2010
Bedtime for Duo Week
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I'm putting Duo week to bed with one last image from the Grand Rockman Exposition '96 Secret File.
I'm putting Duo week to bed with one last image from the Grand Rockman Exposition '96 Secret File.
Thursday, September 2, 2010
Big Duo, it is now SHOWTIME!
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As Duo week (belatedly) winds down, we'll take a look at the Rockman 2: The Power Fighters prologue that appeared in the official game soundtrack booklet ~ a version of the story that didn't appear anywhere else. Action!
As Duo week (belatedly) winds down, we'll take a look at the Rockman 2: The Power Fighters prologue that appeared in the official game soundtrack booklet ~ a version of the story that didn't appear anywhere else. Action!
Wednesday, September 1, 2010
Not your average Joes
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There's been a lot of questioning over the years about Sniper Joes, who designed them, and their relation to Blues. Part of that I'm sure is my fault, because I remember goofing it a few times a while back (I'm talking years and years ago, back when I thought a year or two of Japanese study qualified me to be a translator) with some of my much earlier and sloppier translations I did for Mega Man Network and Mega Man PC in their early days. As long as I'm playing catch-up this week, I thought I'd throw in a fix for some decade-old hubris of mine as well. Dig in!
There's been a lot of questioning over the years about Sniper Joes, who designed them, and their relation to Blues. Part of that I'm sure is my fault, because I remember goofing it a few times a while back (I'm talking years and years ago, back when I thought a year or two of Japanese study qualified me to be a translator) with some of my much earlier and sloppier translations I did for Mega Man Network and Mega Man PC in their early days. As long as I'm playing catch-up this week, I thought I'd throw in a fix for some decade-old hubris of mine as well. Dig in!
The Birth of Duo
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Duo made his first appearance in 1996 with the arcade title Rockman 2: The Power Fighters, in which he acted as a sort of promotional teaser for Rockman 8's release later that year. He was touted as a mysterious new character who was stylistically quite unlike most of the other characters in the Rockman universe, and yet was somehow connected to Rockman and his friends in the past. The Capcom Secret File "Grand Rockman Exposition '96" was one of the first to explain how Duo came to be--not the character's back story, but the ideas and influences that went into shaping the character itself.
Duo made his first appearance in 1996 with the arcade title Rockman 2: The Power Fighters, in which he acted as a sort of promotional teaser for Rockman 8's release later that year. He was touted as a mysterious new character who was stylistically quite unlike most of the other characters in the Rockman universe, and yet was somehow connected to Rockman and his friends in the past. The Capcom Secret File "Grand Rockman Exposition '96" was one of the first to explain how Duo came to be--not the character's back story, but the ideas and influences that went into shaping the character itself.
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
Mega Man Anime Again
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Somehow I totally overlooked this back there. I'd be remiss not to mention it, so let us now correct this injustice!
Somehow I totally overlooked this back there. I'd be remiss not to mention it, so let us now correct this injustice!
A look back in time with Chrono Trigger
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For Chrono Trigger fans, the Chrono Compendium is the best site on the net today. On top of their comprehensive game guides, character data, sprite sheets, scripts, and lively forums, they even have an impressive scan archive from books, magazines, soundtracks, and interviews from any number of regions.
I hope someday Mega Man will have a site as comprehensive and definitive in its coverage. Of course, Mega Man also has a ton more games and materials than the Chrono Trigger franchise... but, hey, can't hurt to dream.
As a fan of Chrono Trigger, the early rough sketches from Masato Kato caught my eye. Featured in the book Chrono Trigger Ultimania that was published in 2009 for the DS version release, it's interesting to see how Kato's early ideas compared to Toriyama's finished character designs. If you're interested in that sort of thing, you can check out the two pages translated by me here and here.
Thanks again to the colossal Chrono Compendium for the scans!
For Chrono Trigger fans, the Chrono Compendium is the best site on the net today. On top of their comprehensive game guides, character data, sprite sheets, scripts, and lively forums, they even have an impressive scan archive from books, magazines, soundtracks, and interviews from any number of regions.
I hope someday Mega Man will have a site as comprehensive and definitive in its coverage. Of course, Mega Man also has a ton more games and materials than the Chrono Trigger franchise... but, hey, can't hurt to dream.
As a fan of Chrono Trigger, the early rough sketches from Masato Kato caught my eye. Featured in the book Chrono Trigger Ultimania that was published in 2009 for the DS version release, it's interesting to see how Kato's early ideas compared to Toriyama's finished character designs. If you're interested in that sort of thing, you can check out the two pages translated by me here and here.
Thanks again to the colossal Chrono Compendium for the scans!
Intergalactic Officer of the Law
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You probably wouldn't know it just from playing the games, but Duo is a space cop on a mission of interplanetary justice. Or so Keiji Inafune and passages like this one have suggested.
You probably wouldn't know it just from playing the games, but Duo is a space cop on a mission of interplanetary justice. Or so Keiji Inafune and passages like this one have suggested.
Monday, August 30, 2010
August wasn't my best month for blogging.
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Sorry about that. Things got hectic, and I told myself I'd break until I could return to regular updates. Does this mean regular updates are resuming? I guess we'll wait and see.
Sorry about that. Things got hectic, and I told myself I'd break until I could return to regular updates. Does this mean regular updates are resuming? I guess we'll wait and see.
Monday, August 9, 2010
Saturday, August 7, 2010
I couldn't stop smiling.
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One of my favorite costumes I saw at Otakon. I was only there for 20 minutes though, so undoubtedly I sampled only a very small selection of what took place there. It looked like hell to walk around in that getup, especially after the fire alarm went off.
Hats off to you, whoever you are.
There were really tons of people in impressive costumes. It looked like a lot of fun. I wish I could have spent more time there.
One of my favorite costumes I saw at Otakon. I was only there for 20 minutes though, so undoubtedly I sampled only a very small selection of what took place there. It looked like hell to walk around in that getup, especially after the fire alarm went off.
Hats off to you, whoever you are.
There were really tons of people in impressive costumes. It looked like a lot of fun. I wish I could have spent more time there.
Friday, August 6, 2010
Doodle Duo
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This was going to be Duo week, but I haven't had time to finish any of my plans. Maybe I'll have a duo of Duo weeks.
Yatta!
This was going to be Duo week, but I haven't had time to finish any of my plans. Maybe I'll have a duo of Duo weeks.
Yatta!
Monday, August 2, 2010
Dynamic Duo
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Hey guys. No, I didn't forget about blogging for two weeks in a row. Not me! I actually had something I started on last week, but I didn't finish it in time. Instead, enjoy this picture of Rock and Duo by Ryuji Higurashi. I do believe this was from before he started working for Capcom, and thus was only fan art at the time. It looks pretty sweet though. No wonder they hired him!
Hey guys. No, I didn't forget about blogging for two weeks in a row. Not me! I actually had something I started on last week, but I didn't finish it in time. Instead, enjoy this picture of Rock and Duo by Ryuji Higurashi. I do believe this was from before he started working for Capcom, and thus was only fan art at the time. It looks pretty sweet though. No wonder they hired him!
Friday, July 30, 2010
Rush Rider
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Rock and Rush try some role reversal. I wanted to go to Otakon this weekend, but it looks like I probably won't make it. This has been a pretty lame week for me and Mega Man related things.
Rock and Rush try some role reversal. I wanted to go to Otakon this weekend, but it looks like I probably won't make it. This has been a pretty lame week for me and Mega Man related things.
Monday, July 26, 2010
I answer some questions
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Hey guys. I know it's Monday, but I don't really have anything for you. Sorry, I've been kinda busy with other things. So instead, I think I'll answer a few of the questions I've been getting lately.
Hey guys. I know it's Monday, but I don't really have anything for you. Sorry, I've been kinda busy with other things. So instead, I think I'll answer a few of the questions I've been getting lately.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Sealab 20XX
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On sinking Dr. Wily, and a few other random bits about MM:RM.
On sinking Dr. Wily, and a few other random bits about MM:RM.
Midsummer Greetings from the Capcom Sound Team
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This appeared on the splash page for Capcom's Cyber Channel web site, sometime in the mid to late 90s. I believe they had at least one Mega Man and Roll picture for every season, but I sadly only have two of them saved.
This appeared on the splash page for Capcom's Cyber Channel web site, sometime in the mid to late 90s. I believe they had at least one Mega Man and Roll picture for every season, but I sadly only have two of them saved.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
I've been tweaking with the layout.
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You guys let me know if it's getting better/worse, okay?
You guys let me know if it's getting better/worse, okay?
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
The Bots Aquatic
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Alternate titles: "The Mega Man and the Sea", "The Hunt for Rush Marine", "20,000 More Leaks Under the Sea"
Alternate titles: "The Mega Man and the Sea", "The Hunt for Rush Marine", "20,000 More Leaks Under the Sea"
Monday, July 19, 2010
Dr. "I'm Always" Right Breaks It Down
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It's time for another edition of Dr. Right's "Ask Me!"
Previously in Club Capcom Magazine, Dr. Right had resolved to set aside some time in his busy schedule to devote to solving your questions. Jumping at the chance to get their burning questions answered, Capcom fans from all over Japan submitted their questions for the good Doctor to answer in the next issue. Some of these were outside the scope of even Dr. Right's wisdom, but Right perseveres and always attempts to give at least some kind of answer. Will knowledge prevail?
It's time for another edition of Dr. Right's "Ask Me!"
Previously in Club Capcom Magazine, Dr. Right had resolved to set aside some time in his busy schedule to devote to solving your questions. Jumping at the chance to get their burning questions answered, Capcom fans from all over Japan submitted their questions for the good Doctor to answer in the next issue. Some of these were outside the scope of even Dr. Right's wisdom, but Right perseveres and always attempts to give at least some kind of answer. Will knowledge prevail?
Friday, July 16, 2010
Mega Man Universe Teaser Trailer
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It came out today. Having watched it 10 times now, I still have no idea what to expect for the actual game. Inafune's interview with Gamespot on the subject sounded like the "Mega Man" part of "Mega Man Universe" could be merely incidental.
"This time, I have included a lot of new gameplay concepts into this game. If we were to make a completely new game, people wouldn’t focus on these new concepts as they would be more focused on the new characters. By choosing Mega Man, a character that already has a strong following and is a character I’m personally attached to, this will allow people to focus on what is new about this game and what special gameplay opportunities can come from these new features."
He also mentions an ongoing 80's theme and stresses the importance of imagination in this title, asking how we think the worlds of Mega Man, Street Fighter and Ghosts 'n' Goblins might intersect. I felt compelled to answer.
I'm predicting a "Mega Man comes out of the game world" concept, maybe entering other game worlds as well, the way Gumby used to enter the worlds of books. (Remember that?) Right now, that's the only thing that really comes to mind.
More news is supposed to be forthcoming, and maybe some Rockman Universe news too. We'll see what happens!
It came out today. Having watched it 10 times now, I still have no idea what to expect for the actual game. Inafune's interview with Gamespot on the subject sounded like the "Mega Man" part of "Mega Man Universe" could be merely incidental.
"This time, I have included a lot of new gameplay concepts into this game. If we were to make a completely new game, people wouldn’t focus on these new concepts as they would be more focused on the new characters. By choosing Mega Man, a character that already has a strong following and is a character I’m personally attached to, this will allow people to focus on what is new about this game and what special gameplay opportunities can come from these new features."
He also mentions an ongoing 80's theme and stresses the importance of imagination in this title, asking how we think the worlds of Mega Man, Street Fighter and Ghosts 'n' Goblins might intersect. I felt compelled to answer.
I'm predicting a "Mega Man comes out of the game world" concept, maybe entering other game worlds as well, the way Gumby used to enter the worlds of books. (Remember that?) Right now, that's the only thing that really comes to mind.
More news is supposed to be forthcoming, and maybe some Rockman Universe news too. We'll see what happens!
Free Teaser Friday
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Rounding out the topic of the week, here's a two page spread from the back of the Rockman & Rockman X Himitsu Daihyakka (Big Encyclopedia of Secrets).
Text reads:
Rockman has become an anime phenomenon in America!
And it's called MEGA MAN!!
Amazing! Rockman has been very busy in America! Check out all this awesome! (Whether this will ever be presented in Japan is unknown.)
Published in April of 1995, these images from the cartoon's intro would represent nearly all of what the average Japanese Rockman fan would see or know of the Mega Man cartoon, until that CFC article we looked at on Monday. Thanks to YouTube, they've gotten to see a lot more since then.
Rounding out the topic of the week, here's a two page spread from the back of the Rockman & Rockman X Himitsu Daihyakka (Big Encyclopedia of Secrets).
Text reads:
Rockman has become an anime phenomenon in America!
And it's called MEGA MAN!!
Amazing! Rockman has been very busy in America! Check out all this awesome! (Whether this will ever be presented in Japan is unknown.)
Published in April of 1995, these images from the cartoon's intro would represent nearly all of what the average Japanese Rockman fan would see or know of the Mega Man cartoon, until that CFC article we looked at on Monday. Thanks to YouTube, they've gotten to see a lot more since then.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Cuteness.
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These are adorable. Although when it comes to Servbots, I prefer cylindrical heads to spheres, personally. Neat idea tho.
These are adorable. Although when it comes to Servbots, I prefer cylindrical heads to spheres, personally. Neat idea tho.
I think this is awesome.
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You've probably seen this already. It's too expensive for me to import at this time, but I'd be all over that. Thanks Protodude & Anonymous!
You've probably seen this already. It's too expensive for me to import at this time, but I'd be all over that. Thanks Protodude & Anonymous!
Monday, July 12, 2010
The Mega Man Cartoon: A Japanese Perspective
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One staple of the CFC-Style Fan Books was the feature "Uchihirano 3rd Block General Store". Named after Capcom's headquarters in Osaka, Japan, this continuing column provided Japanese fans a chance to look at rare Capcom paraphernalia, forgotten things from Capcom's early years or merchandise that was only released in certain parts of the globe.
Narrated by Capcom's own Ma-chan, the section usually included a bonus giveaway contest at the end where you could enter to win rare Capcom-related goods. In CFC's third volume that released around the springtime of 1997, "U3GS" did a feature on the Ruby Spears Mega Man cartoon. You might be surprised... or not.
One staple of the CFC-Style Fan Books was the feature "Uchihirano 3rd Block General Store". Named after Capcom's headquarters in Osaka, Japan, this continuing column provided Japanese fans a chance to look at rare Capcom paraphernalia, forgotten things from Capcom's early years or merchandise that was only released in certain parts of the globe.
Narrated by Capcom's own Ma-chan, the section usually included a bonus giveaway contest at the end where you could enter to win rare Capcom-related goods. In CFC's third volume that released around the springtime of 1997, "U3GS" did a feature on the Ruby Spears Mega Man cartoon. You might be surprised... or not.
Friday, July 9, 2010
Monday, July 5, 2010
Rockman X: Origins
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Continued from last time, Club Capcom Magazine delves into the hidden past and unseen future of Rockman X.
Continued from last time, Club Capcom Magazine delves into the hidden past and unseen future of Rockman X.
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Happy Day of Sigma?
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While perusing the Compendium of Rockman X recently, I was reminded of an obscure fact. In the American manual for the game Mega Man X, Cain's journal entry date for Sigma's rebellion was the fourth of June. Meanwhile in the Japanese version of Cain's journal that appeared first in the Rockman X PC game manual, Sigma's rebellion was recorded on July 4 instead.
So, to all the rampaging repliroids of the Far East, have a happy and safe rebellion day. Go bag yourself a human! I'll be celebrating tomorrow with more Rockman X concept coverage from Club Capcom.
While perusing the Compendium of Rockman X recently, I was reminded of an obscure fact. In the American manual for the game Mega Man X, Cain's journal entry date for Sigma's rebellion was the fourth of June. Meanwhile in the Japanese version of Cain's journal that appeared first in the Rockman X PC game manual, Sigma's rebellion was recorded on July 4 instead.
So, to all the rampaging repliroids of the Far East, have a happy and safe rebellion day. Go bag yourself a human! I'll be celebrating tomorrow with more Rockman X concept coverage from Club Capcom.
Rockman Storytime
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Mega Man Network brought out their own version of this book, done the way I originally wanted to as a scanlation. It's probably better than mine, I must say. (I realized at least one mistake I had made in mine!) Go lookie.
Mega Man Network brought out their own version of this book, done the way I originally wanted to as a scanlation. It's probably better than mine, I must say. (I realized at least one mistake I had made in mine!) Go lookie.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Roll-play: Caskett Style
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From CAP! Volume 6. Front, side, and back view of Roll's outfit, and even her underwear. Imitators welcome!
From CAP! Volume 6. Front, side, and back view of Roll's outfit, and even her underwear. Imitators welcome!
Monday, June 28, 2010
This was Rockman X!
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Last week we looked at some previews of the X series from US gaming magazines. But what about from Japan?
Last week we looked at some previews of the X series from US gaming magazines. But what about from Japan?
Friday, June 25, 2010
Free Honey Fridays!
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Here's a little summer flavored Roll comic from Hideki Ishikawa called "Get Back Here!"
From CFC Style Fan Book volume 3, & co-starring Darkstalkers' own Q-Bee. You hardly need the dialog to understand the comic, but here it is anyway:
Here's a little summer flavored Roll comic from Hideki Ishikawa called "Get Back Here!"
From CFC Style Fan Book volume 3, & co-starring Darkstalkers' own Q-Bee. You hardly need the dialog to understand the comic, but here it is anyway:
- Panel 1
- "Tsutaetai, kono omoi..." (Roll is singing her theme song)
- Panel 3
- Rock says "What was that for!?" while Roll apologizes, "Oops, I'm sorry!"
Retro Jumble
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A random collection of retro oddities and mega curiosities.
A random collection of retro oddities and mega curiosities.
Thursday, June 24, 2010
Retro Designs
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A little blurb about Nintendo Power's Mega Man 3 coverage.
A little blurb about Nintendo Power's Mega Man 3 coverage.
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
Retro Origins
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This time, we're looking at the story behind the Mega Man story.
This time, we're looking at the story behind the Mega Man story.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Monday, June 21, 2010
Retromags Week
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I'm going to try something a little different this week. Have you guys heard of Retromags? It's a site that archives pre-millennium video game magazines for posterity. Our video gaming heritage preserved for the digital age! I think it's a great project, and I've had a blast perusing through old magazines lately, and I want to share this nostalgia explosion with you, my friends and followers!
So instead of my usual thing, this week I'm going to update every day with something nifty and Mega Man related that I've uncovered from their vast and ever-growing collection.
Translation Mondays will return next week!
I'm going to try something a little different this week. Have you guys heard of Retromags? It's a site that archives pre-millennium video game magazines for posterity. Our video gaming heritage preserved for the digital age! I think it's a great project, and I've had a blast perusing through old magazines lately, and I want to share this nostalgia explosion with you, my friends and followers!
So instead of my usual thing, this week I'm going to update every day with something nifty and Mega Man related that I've uncovered from their vast and ever-growing collection.
Translation Mondays will return next week!
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Thursday, June 17, 2010
Might not be able to post tomorrow...
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So here's your free pic friday advance. In honor of the Mega Man Legends board finally returning to Capcom's forums after many years of absence, here's some DASH for ya!
From CFC CAP! volume 7. Tiesel breaks down his latest master plan for finally stopping that blue boy (or here, "Blue Man"). I hope someday he finally gets to use it in Legends 3.
So here's your free pic friday advance. In honor of the Mega Man Legends board finally returning to Capcom's forums after many years of absence, here's some DASH for ya!
From CFC CAP! volume 7. Tiesel breaks down his latest master plan for finally stopping that blue boy (or here, "Blue Man"). I hope someday he finally gets to use it in Legends 3.
Monday, June 14, 2010
Dr. Right Explains It All
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In the year 1993+a, the brilliant researcher Dr. Right began answering fan mail for Club Capcom magazine. He answered their questions, no matter how trivial or silly, and they all were enjoying their peaceful days. However, the mad scientist Dr. Wily became jealous of all that attention, and decided to take over the column once and for all...
In the year 1993+a, the brilliant researcher Dr. Right began answering fan mail for Club Capcom magazine. He answered their questions, no matter how trivial or silly, and they all were enjoying their peaceful days. However, the mad scientist Dr. Wily became jealous of all that attention, and decided to take over the column once and for all...
Friday, June 11, 2010
Weekend Joyride
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The Capcom gals take some time off to enjoy the nice weather. See if you can spot the 2 Rockman characters among them! From CFC Style Fan Book CAP! volume 4, art by "Ooishi".
The Capcom gals take some time off to enjoy the nice weather. See if you can spot the 2 Rockman characters among them! From CFC Style Fan Book CAP! volume 4, art by "Ooishi".
Monday, June 7, 2010
The Siberian Citadel -- they don't build 'em like that anymore!
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In honor of my old friend Dr. Cossack celebrating his tenth year as a webmaster in the Mega Man community, I'd like to present Rockman 4 like you've never seen it before -- in Rockman Diorama World!
In honor of my old friend Dr. Cossack celebrating his tenth year as a webmaster in the Mega Man community, I'd like to present Rockman 4 like you've never seen it before -- in Rockman Diorama World!
Friday, June 4, 2010
Friday Filler
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Today's Free Pic Friday comes from CFC-SFB v3, Rockman, Blues and Rush done in a child's drawing style. There is a whole series of pictures done like this used as filler art, often appearing in the Fan Art/Contributions sections of the books. This one in particular was used to promote the Great Grand Rockman Expo '97 event.
That is one grumpy Rush. And not every robot can pull off a bright yellow ruff, but Blues does it with flair. The style is charming, in its own way...
Today's Free Pic Friday comes from CFC-SFB v3, Rockman, Blues and Rush done in a child's drawing style. There is a whole series of pictures done like this used as filler art, often appearing in the Fan Art/Contributions sections of the books. This one in particular was used to promote the Great Grand Rockman Expo '97 event.
That is one grumpy Rush. And not every robot can pull off a bright yellow ruff, but Blues does it with flair. The style is charming, in its own way...
Thursday, June 3, 2010
One Year In
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I started this blog one year ago today, so I thought it would be a fine time to do a little self-inventory.
I started this blog one year ago today, so I thought it would be a fine time to do a little self-inventory.
Monday, May 31, 2010
The Next Mega Man Idol
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Today, another excerpt from the CFC FB 3, page 4. Featuring some very rare artwork, and the "story" behind Roll's secret karaoke ending.
Today, another excerpt from the CFC FB 3, page 4. Featuring some very rare artwork, and the "story" behind Roll's secret karaoke ending.
Friday, May 28, 2010
Free Pic Friday!
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I'm thinking I'll try a Monday-Friday update schedule. On Fridays, I'll post up some artwork scans from the CFC materials that don't really require translations. Some are really cool, some not so much, but all of them are pretty rare. Apologies in advance for my scanner's quality situation.
Today's image is the Capcom Gran Prix. This appeared on many promotional goods around '97, but the only reasonable image I have of it is from the table of contents for the CFC Fan Book #3. (That's why it has some writing over it.) I don't think this has appeared in any other Capcom art books, but I'll double check that later today. It's a pretty busy piece, so I'm not really sure I know who all the characters are. Some are from Street Fighter, Cyberbots, Battle Circuit, Vampire... and Rockman! I can't help but laugh at Iceman's expression.
I'm thinking I'll try a Monday-Friday update schedule. On Fridays, I'll post up some artwork scans from the CFC materials that don't really require translations. Some are really cool, some not so much, but all of them are pretty rare. Apologies in advance for my scanner's quality situation.
Today's image is the Capcom Gran Prix. This appeared on many promotional goods around '97, but the only reasonable image I have of it is from the table of contents for the CFC Fan Book #3. (That's why it has some writing over it.) I don't think this has appeared in any other Capcom art books, but I'll double check that later today. It's a pretty busy piece, so I'm not really sure I know who all the characters are. Some are from Street Fighter, Cyberbots, Battle Circuit, Vampire... and Rockman! I can't help but laugh at Iceman's expression.
Art of RFWS?!
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The Mega Man Network has mirrored some scans from 2chan showing off artwork for 2 characters from the Japan-only Bandai-prouced made-for-Wonderswan Rockman & Forte Mirai kara no Chousensha (or just RFWS for short).
The artwork is pretty similar to the character image screens found in the games. It's odd they didn't include such art in the game's manual. The booklet and packaging almost completely devoid of pictures that aren't screencaps, and what there is is taken from Capcom's own Rockman & Forte game art. What a neat find!
Also odd is that Shadow's body is a dark green color. In the game dialog he's often referred to as being clad in black. But all in all, that's hardly the weirdest thing about that game.
The Mega Man Network has mirrored some scans from 2chan showing off artwork for 2 characters from the Japan-only Bandai-prouced made-for-Wonderswan Rockman & Forte Mirai kara no Chousensha (or just RFWS for short).
The artwork is pretty similar to the character image screens found in the games. It's odd they didn't include such art in the game's manual. The booklet and packaging almost completely devoid of pictures that aren't screencaps, and what there is is taken from Capcom's own Rockman & Forte game art. What a neat find!
Also odd is that Shadow's body is a dark green color. In the game dialog he's often referred to as being clad in black. But all in all, that's hardly the weirdest thing about that game.
Monday, May 24, 2010
The Lost Episode of Rockman 6
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For this Monday's update, I decided to post a page from Club Capcom's Spring 1993 issue. Club Capcom magazine is the predecessor of the CFC-Style Fan Book mini 'zines that I pulled content from last week. This time, I'm translating a prologue teaser for Rockman 6 that also made a cryptic new announcement regarding the future of the Rockman franchise on the Super Famicom (Super NES) that had many Japanese fans super-excited! As a bonus, at the bottom of the page there's an untold story from Rockboard's development team detailing the birth of Reggae, who recently made a comeback appearance in Rockman 10's Forte (Bass) mode! Bump it!
For this Monday's update, I decided to post a page from Club Capcom's Spring 1993 issue. Club Capcom magazine is the predecessor of the CFC-Style Fan Book mini 'zines that I pulled content from last week. This time, I'm translating a prologue teaser for Rockman 6 that also made a cryptic new announcement regarding the future of the Rockman franchise on the Super Famicom (Super NES) that had many Japanese fans super-excited! As a bonus, at the bottom of the page there's an untold story from Rockboard's development team detailing the birth of Reggae, who recently made a comeback appearance in Rockman 10's Forte (Bass) mode! Bump it!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
What, another update?!
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And it's not even Monday! Another scan from the CFC-Style Fan Book Vol 2, page 13. It's a little something that didn't make it into the R20 or SF20 art compilation books.
Here the cute couple of Sakura and Rockman make some headlines in Raccoon City. The denizens of that doomed metropolis could probably use a lot more than a pep talk about fighting spirit, if you ask me. Umbrella Corp's monsters wouldn't stand a chance against these two!
Since it doesn't appear in other books and I don't see it listed in this one, I'm not sure who the artist is. I do know the table of contents lists it as an original Capcom piece made for this issue. No matter. I like the concept, and their poses are great. Sakura looks rather tall next to Rock.
Some of the colors in this scan are a bit too bright, unfortunately, making the browns look more red. I couldn't seem to get a nice balance that didn't make the other colors look washed out. I'm probably going to need to get a new scanner to get nicer images, especially for the Mega Mission cards. But that's way outside of my budget at this time. This will have to do for now, and if ever I can, I'll put up a better scan. It looks pretty decent anyway, right?
And it's not even Monday! Another scan from the CFC-Style Fan Book Vol 2, page 13. It's a little something that didn't make it into the R20 or SF20 art compilation books.
Here the cute couple of Sakura and Rockman make some headlines in Raccoon City. The denizens of that doomed metropolis could probably use a lot more than a pep talk about fighting spirit, if you ask me. Umbrella Corp's monsters wouldn't stand a chance against these two!
Since it doesn't appear in other books and I don't see it listed in this one, I'm not sure who the artist is. I do know the table of contents lists it as an original Capcom piece made for this issue. No matter. I like the concept, and their poses are great. Sakura looks rather tall next to Rock.
Some of the colors in this scan are a bit too bright, unfortunately, making the browns look more red. I couldn't seem to get a nice balance that didn't make the other colors look washed out. I'm probably going to need to get a new scanner to get nicer images, especially for the Mega Mission cards. But that's way outside of my budget at this time. This will have to do for now, and if ever I can, I'll put up a better scan. It looks pretty decent anyway, right?
Monday, May 17, 2010
Monday Blues
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I think you know what I mean when I say, this spasmodic system of blogging I have going right now isn't quite working out. Nothing for weeks, then a few posts, then nothing for months.... Yeah, bad idea. It's too easy for me to just put it off or forget all about posting.
So from now on, I'm going to do things differently. Every Monday, there will be an update. Every Monday! By creating a deadline for myself, I'll hopefully start getting done all the things I created this blog to do. So, to my handful of followers, I now solemnly pledge to update at the front of every work week. Maybe if there's lots to say I'll do more than that, but for now just expect a once-a-week minimum. So now that that's settled, this Monday's topic is none other than the original robot in red and co-star of Mega Man 10, Protoman.
Read on!
I think you know what I mean when I say, this spasmodic system of blogging I have going right now isn't quite working out. Nothing for weeks, then a few posts, then nothing for months.... Yeah, bad idea. It's too easy for me to just put it off or forget all about posting.
So from now on, I'm going to do things differently. Every Monday, there will be an update. Every Monday! By creating a deadline for myself, I'll hopefully start getting done all the things I created this blog to do. So, to my handful of followers, I now solemnly pledge to update at the front of every work week. Maybe if there's lots to say I'll do more than that, but for now just expect a once-a-week minimum. So now that that's settled, this Monday's topic is none other than the original robot in red and co-star of Mega Man 10, Protoman.
Read on!
Monday, May 10, 2010
Trekkies have one... shouldn't Mega Man?
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The Mega Man Network has done some articles recently that show they aren't afraid ask the tough questions and probe the deepest darkest secrets of the Mega Man franchise. This is mostly a response to this one in particular, which also did not escape the attention of manga artist Hitoshi Ariga. In 2008 he also felt compelled to put up a blog post dealing with this controversial issue, which I would like to present henceforth, dubbed for an English audience. Click the jump once your mind is clear, and proceed into the inner sanctums of knowledge.
The Mega Man Network has done some articles recently that show they aren't afraid ask the tough questions and probe the deepest darkest secrets of the Mega Man franchise. This is mostly a response to this one in particular, which also did not escape the attention of manga artist Hitoshi Ariga. In 2008 he also felt compelled to put up a blog post dealing with this controversial issue, which I would like to present henceforth, dubbed for an English audience. Click the jump once your mind is clear, and proceed into the inner sanctums of knowledge.
As Dr. Light would say...
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"You haven't done this in awhile!"
"You haven't done this in awhile!"
Sorry about all the non-blogging. It is so easy to lose interest. Luckily, it's also easy to have a sudden inspiration to do something. Life is funny like that.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Tatsunoko vs Capcom: Say what?
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My TvC Victory Quotes FAQ is now up on GameFAQs, covering all the after-match quips, jabs and dis's from the characters in the game.
A few noteworthy ones for Rockman fans include:
"You really remind me of my brother..."
--Roll to MegaMan Volnutt, making the obvious meta-joke.
"Huh? Oh, sorry. I got startled because you remind me of someone who is very special to me."
--MegaMan V. to Roll, showing the feeling is mutual.
"Wow! I've never seen a Quick Man cosplay before!"
--Roll to Viewtiful Joe, bringing the funny.
"You kind of remind me of Data with how energetic and rambunctious you are."
--MegaMan V. to V. Joe, drawing his own comparison.
"Please come and visit the lab sometime! My brother and Rush would be thrilled to meet you two!"
--Roll to Casshan, giving props to her 70s anime-inspired roots.
"You're strong and cool-looking. You remind me of Hard Man more than Guts Man."
--Roll to Alex, she apparently prefers a Hard Man.
"You remind me so much of X... What Hunter unit are you in?"
--Zero to MegaMan V., who also sees the resemblance.
"So you're looking for someone who looks like me? Of course I accept your apology. I'm sorry I couldn't help you out."
--MegaMan V. to Zero, as if in response.
"<3 Oh, my! What a handsome boy! <3 I hope some day you can fight at my side." --Doronjo to MegaMan V. who is something of the ladies' man in this game.
"You are just so cute and polite! Maybe we can, like, spar again sometime." --Yatterman-2 to MegaMan V., see what I mean?
"Hmm, the Bonne family were actually more of a challenge than you..."
--MegaMan V. to Doronjo, setting the record straight on the superior evil trio.
"...That's the Procyon-style energy compression technique that has yet to be... ...Eh!? N-N-Never mind!"
--Saki to Zero, on the technology behind his Z-Saber.
"What are you doing here? You're just a housekeeping Reploid... You should get home immediately before you malfunction."
--Zero to Roll, putting to rest the question of whether the original series robots are more like reploids or mechaniloids.
And perhaps the most infamous of them all...
"You're pretty strong! You might even be able to beat my brother!"
--Roll to Zero, teasing Zero Cataclysm fans everywhere.
I love TvC.
My TvC Victory Quotes FAQ is now up on GameFAQs, covering all the after-match quips, jabs and dis's from the characters in the game.
A few noteworthy ones for Rockman fans include:
"You really remind me of my brother..."
--Roll to MegaMan Volnutt, making the obvious meta-joke.
"Huh? Oh, sorry. I got startled because you remind me of someone who is very special to me."
--MegaMan V. to Roll, showing the feeling is mutual.
"Wow! I've never seen a Quick Man cosplay before!"
--Roll to Viewtiful Joe, bringing the funny.
"You kind of remind me of Data with how energetic and rambunctious you are."
--MegaMan V. to V. Joe, drawing his own comparison.
"Please come and visit the lab sometime! My brother and Rush would be thrilled to meet you two!"
--Roll to Casshan, giving props to her 70s anime-inspired roots.
"You're strong and cool-looking. You remind me of Hard Man more than Guts Man."
--Roll to Alex, she apparently prefers a Hard Man.
"You remind me so much of X... What Hunter unit are you in?"
--Zero to MegaMan V., who also sees the resemblance.
"So you're looking for someone who looks like me? Of course I accept your apology. I'm sorry I couldn't help you out."
--MegaMan V. to Zero, as if in response.
"<3 Oh, my! What a handsome boy! <3 I hope some day you can fight at my side." --Doronjo to MegaMan V. who is something of the ladies' man in this game.
"You are just so cute and polite! Maybe we can, like, spar again sometime." --Yatterman-2 to MegaMan V., see what I mean?
"Hmm, the Bonne family were actually more of a challenge than you..."
--MegaMan V. to Doronjo, setting the record straight on the superior evil trio.
"...That's the Procyon-style energy compression technique that has yet to be... ...Eh!? N-N-Never mind!"
--Saki to Zero, on the technology behind his Z-Saber.
"What are you doing here? You're just a housekeeping Reploid... You should get home immediately before you malfunction."
--Zero to Roll, putting to rest the question of whether the original series robots are more like reploids or mechaniloids.
And perhaps the most infamous of them all...
"You're pretty strong! You might even be able to beat my brother!"
--Roll to Zero, teasing Zero Cataclysm fans everywhere.
I love TvC.
Old news, knew news
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Mega Man 10's been out for a while now. Long story short, I love it, and I'm really looking forward to the new Bass and Endless modes, and especially the three special stages with their returning bosses and weapons. This is the first time we've ever seen what colors Mega Man turns when he uses the special boss' weapons from Mega Man III and IV for Game Boy. Pretty awesome for us Mega nerds! It looks like the MM Killers get new artwork, I hope Rock gets some new art for using the weapons, too.
Mega Man 10's been out for a while now. Long story short, I love it, and I'm really looking forward to the new Bass and Endless modes, and especially the three special stages with their returning bosses and weapons. This is the first time we've ever seen what colors Mega Man turns when he uses the special boss' weapons from Mega Man III and IV for Game Boy. Pretty awesome for us Mega nerds! It looks like the MM Killers get new artwork, I hope Rock gets some new art for using the weapons, too.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
When it rains...
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This will probably be my last catch-up post for today. This is win.
If only I had mad folding skillz.
This will probably be my last catch-up post for today. This is win.
If only I had mad folding skillz.
Roll Home Run!
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Those of you with a copy of the Mega Man Official Complete Works book from Udon have probably seen this image. Rockman... baseball?
In the book, Keiji Inafune claims to have no memory of when he drew it or why.
Well, he could have asked me, because I think I remember! In August of 1998, a Japanese baseball team called the Nippon-Ham Fighters held a Rockman Day at the Tokyo Dome, which was then their home field. If I recall correctly, a logo very similar to this one was used to promote the event.
How do I know all this? Because on August 14 of that year, Capcom sent a fax about it! (2nd from the bottom) Unfortunately Capcom purged the faxes from their site long ago, and the image doesn't seem to be saved on the internet archive, but you can still see the text there reading "FIGHTERS ROCKMAN DAY"... well, if you can read Japanese, you can. I first came across the Capcom faxes back in the late 90s, and saved all the images I could find... only to lose them in a hard drive crash. But maybe somebody out there saved them, and will come forward? I hope so!
Just another random trivia tidbit I felt the need to share.
Those of you with a copy of the Mega Man Official Complete Works book from Udon have probably seen this image. Rockman... baseball? In the book, Keiji Inafune claims to have no memory of when he drew it or why.
Well, he could have asked me, because I think I remember! In August of 1998, a Japanese baseball team called the Nippon-Ham Fighters held a Rockman Day at the Tokyo Dome, which was then their home field. If I recall correctly, a logo very similar to this one was used to promote the event.
How do I know all this? Because on August 14 of that year, Capcom sent a fax about it! (2nd from the bottom) Unfortunately Capcom purged the faxes from their site long ago, and the image doesn't seem to be saved on the internet archive, but you can still see the text there reading "FIGHTERS ROCKMAN DAY"... well, if you can read Japanese, you can. I first came across the Capcom faxes back in the late 90s, and saved all the images I could find... only to lose them in a hard drive crash. But maybe somebody out there saved them, and will come forward? I hope so!
Just another random trivia tidbit I felt the need to share.
Rockman: Defeat Dr. Wily!! part 2
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Continued from part 1:
"Good work, Plant Man!" laughed Dr. Wily, who appeared riding in his Wily Machine.
Rockman was in trouble!
"That's enough, Wily!" It was Blues to the rescue!
"Uh-oh, looks like it's time to run away!" cried Dr. Wily. "Plantman, you can handle things from here!"
Rockman and Rush combined to chase after Wily.
"Rocket Buster!" CRASH, BOOM!
The Wily Machine was hit!
"Curses, I'll get you for this!" yelled Dr. Wily.
Roll was found safe and sound, and even Plantman was returned to his normal cheerful self thanks to Dr. Right.
"That's a relief!" Roll smiled.
The End
Continued from part 1:
"Good work, Plant Man!" laughed Dr. Wily, who appeared riding in his Wily Machine.
Rockman was in trouble!
"That's enough, Wily!" It was Blues to the rescue!"Uh-oh, looks like it's time to run away!" cried Dr. Wily. "Plantman, you can handle things from here!"
Rockman and Rush combined to chase after Wily."Rocket Buster!" CRASH, BOOM!
The Wily Machine was hit!
"Curses, I'll get you for this!" yelled Dr. Wily.
Roll was found safe and sound, and even Plantman was returned to his normal cheerful self thanks to Dr. Right. "That's a relief!" Roll smiled.
The End
Rockman: Defeat Dr. Wily!! part 1
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I was intending to do this up properly as an English scanlation, the first one I've attempted in years. The last time was back at the dawn of the century (that makes it sound historical, right?), I tried my hand at Ariga's Rockman X Mega Mission manga for the anniversary of Mega Man X Online (now The Mega Man Network). Long story short, that was a mess and I wasn't happy with the results. I was hoping to capture the children's story feel, but after treading water on this one for a month now, I've finally decided to just pair scans with translations and call it a day. Let's go!
Ta-dah! This is Rockman Dr. Wily o Yattsukero!!, or Rockman: Defeat Dr. Wily!! aka Nagaoka's Petit Picture Books volume 3, from a series of cardboard books meant for Japanese young readers, starring heroes from television, manga and video games. In 1996, they released this book starring none other than Rockman! This small 18 page book features a simple story and unique colorful artwork.
And now, it's scanned and translated!
Click on the images to see the larger versions. Enjoy!
One day, Rock and his friends set out on a picnic.
"I'm going to go pick some flowers," said his little sister Roll, as she and Rush ran off ahead.
While Roll was picking flowers, she became entangled by a strange ivy vine.
"Kyaah!"
Oh no, Plantman was hiding among the flowers!
Howling, Rush hurried back to tell everyone what happened.
"You say Roll has been kidnapped?" exclaimed Dr. Right.
"Doctor, I have to go save her!" With that, Rock changed into the heroic Rockman!
At the secret base, Plantman was waiting.
"You're being fooled! Return Roll at once!" said Rockman.
But Plantman just angrily attacked him instead!
Continued in part 2!
I was intending to do this up properly as an English scanlation, the first one I've attempted in years. The last time was back at the dawn of the century (that makes it sound historical, right?), I tried my hand at Ariga's Rockman X Mega Mission manga for the anniversary of Mega Man X Online (now The Mega Man Network). Long story short, that was a mess and I wasn't happy with the results. I was hoping to capture the children's story feel, but after treading water on this one for a month now, I've finally decided to just pair scans with translations and call it a day. Let's go!
Ta-dah! This is Rockman Dr. Wily o Yattsukero!!, or Rockman: Defeat Dr. Wily!! aka Nagaoka's Petit Picture Books volume 3, from a series of cardboard books meant for Japanese young readers, starring heroes from television, manga and video games. In 1996, they released this book starring none other than Rockman! This small 18 page book features a simple story and unique colorful artwork. And now, it's scanned and translated!
Click on the images to see the larger versions. Enjoy!
One day, Rock and his friends set out on a picnic. "I'm going to go pick some flowers," said his little sister Roll, as she and Rush ran off ahead.
While Roll was picking flowers, she became entangled by a strange ivy vine.
"Kyaah!" Oh no, Plantman was hiding among the flowers!
Howling, Rush hurried back to tell everyone what happened. "You say Roll has been kidnapped?" exclaimed Dr. Right.
"Doctor, I have to go save her!" With that, Rock changed into the heroic Rockman!
At the secret base, Plantman was waiting."You're being fooled! Return Roll at once!" said Rockman.
But Plantman just angrily attacked him instead!
Continued in part 2!
So February rolls around...
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Why is it sooo haaard to update a blog? Well, I probably have Tatsunoko vs Capcom to blame for that. I've never played a fighting game online before, it's very addicting (in addition to a few other choice words that I'll leave to your imagination).
So, what's been going on? Mega Man 10 bosses and weapons are now revealed, those look pretty interesting. The Mega Man Network has some awesome Valentine's Day cards to share with a gaming-savvy sweetie. And so has Capcom Japan! Priceless!
Oh and speaking of that project I started in January...
Why is it sooo haaard to update a blog? Well, I probably have Tatsunoko vs Capcom to blame for that. I've never played a fighting game online before, it's very addicting (in addition to a few other choice words that I'll leave to your imagination).
So, what's been going on? Mega Man 10 bosses and weapons are now revealed, those look pretty interesting. The Mega Man Network has some awesome Valentine's Day cards to share with a gaming-savvy sweetie. And so has Capcom Japan! Priceless!
Oh and speaking of that project I started in January...
Friday, January 8, 2010
2010, The Year We Make Silly Word Puns
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Here we are well into the new year already. How's it treating you so far?
My old buddies at Mega Man Network put up some fun end-of-decade articles. They seem to be under the impression that we're entering into 20XX this year, although we've technically been in 20XX for over 10 years now (both of those X's can stand for zeros) but at least we can all agree that 200X is now over.
The big news contender so far for MM fans is Mega Man 10 coming out in March of this year. Japanese gaming magagazine Game Side featured an article about it recently, and ran the first Rockman 10 ads which sport the tagline...
"Omoshirosa, kawarimaten!" (おもしろさ、変わりまテン！) That "-ten" replacing the normal "-sen" negative word ending. Generally translated, "Intense, they haven't changed a thing!" Ha ha, I am so clever. Hey companies, I'm available for ad copy work!
This year I intend to finish scanning those Mega Mission cards (I haven't forgotten), as well as to complete my next Rockman project, which I'm starting on officially right after I finish this post (tentatively). Check back often for updates!
Let's make 2010 one for the record books!
Here we are well into the new year already. How's it treating you so far?
My old buddies at Mega Man Network put up some fun end-of-decade articles. They seem to be under the impression that we're entering into 20XX this year, although we've technically been in 20XX for over 10 years now (both of those X's can stand for zeros) but at least we can all agree that 200X is now over.
The big news contender so far for MM fans is Mega Man 10 coming out in March of this year. Japanese gaming magagazine Game Side featured an article about it recently, and ran the first Rockman 10 ads which sport the tagline...
"Omoshirosa, kawarimaten!" (おもしろさ、変わりまテン！) That "-ten" replacing the normal "-sen" negative word ending. Generally translated, "Intense, they haven't changed a thing!" Ha ha, I am so clever. Hey companies, I'm available for ad copy work!
This year I intend to finish scanning those Mega Mission cards (I haven't forgotten), as well as to complete my next Rockman project, which I'm starting on officially right after I finish this post (tentatively). Check back often for updates!
Let's make 2010 one for the record books!
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