UlasanAnime.com – As Anime Expo 2014 approaches, the author reflects on the potential decision to withdraw from attending due to unforeseen circumstances, requiring significant effort and favors to manage. Despite the personal challenges, the commitment to attend remains, with travel plans tentatively set for the following day or the day after, depending on how situations unfold. The author has already begun organizing their schedule for the event.
A key recommendation for attendees is to utilize the Guidebook app, available on both iOS and Android platforms, to navigate the convention.
Angela and King Records are expected to have a presence, potentially offering autograph sessions for fans who purchase their merchandise. While the author expresses some uncertainty about the reception in Southern California, they acknowledge that fan enthusiasm might prove them wrong. Details regarding their autograph sessions and a special K event can be found through a series of Twitter links, with sessions likely taking place at the Kinokuniya booth.
It is noted that the official autograph area has been relocated to the game/cosplay room this year, while the exhibit hall will be exclusively dedicated to dealers.
Sekai Project, an emerging company focused on localizing Japanese indie games and books, will also have a booth. The author highlights their presence due to the availability of commissions and autographs from Japanese illustrator/mangaka Luna. Sekai Project plans to offer exclusive scrolls that were previously available only through their Kickstarter campaign at Anime Expo.
FUNimation will be hosting the premiere of “Zankyou no Terror.”
Aniplex is set to host a major event for “Sword Art Online II” and will also feature “Adonah Zero” with Butch.
Project H is organizing “H matsuri” at AX, which, while perhaps not groundbreaking, is noted as an event to consider.
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JAST, MangaGamer, and Sekai Project are all anticipated to make significant announcements, with particular emphasis placed on Sekai Project.
There is an upcoming announcement at AX regarding a license that will lead to the presence of certain guests, specifically dub actors, at Otakon. The details are expected to be revealed this week.
Aniplex has a dedicated page for their merchandise and activities at AX 2014, promising an exciting lineup.
FUNimation’s plans for Anime Expo are detailed in a blog post, though the author suggests it might be a slightly scaled-down offering compared to their usual convention appearances, as AX typically receives a more premium treatment.
NISA’s activities at AX appear less organized, possibly due to recent personnel changes. The author notes that a fan update is likely due soon. Information on other licenses might offer clues about what to expect, reinforcing the long-standing advice to visit booths for direct inquiries.
MangaGamer has indicated upcoming announcements but has not yet disclosed specific booth activities.
JAST also has unconfirmed plans beyond general announcements.
Fakku’s transition to a more legitimate operation is a subject of ongoing interest, with their panels on Saturday potentially shedding more light on their future plans.
In adult-oriented news, a panel on lewd figures will be co-hosted by Mamitan (Francis) and Mikatan, who has recently joined Native. The author recommends attending this panel, if only to see Mikatan in person.
Kyoto Animation will be present at AX, screening the first two episodes of “Free! Season 2,” giving attendees a chance to watch episode 2 before its release in Japan. A Q&A session will follow, and there will be a booth staffed with the assistance of a former Kyoani intern from the US. No merchandise is expected from their booth.
(The author also makes a brief interjection, noting the presence of Yamakan at AX.)
Mirai ni Neiro will showcase their usual lineup of Vocaloid Producers, including Wataame, Kagome P, UtataP, Sunzriver, and buzzG, as well as the creator of the “Mikumentary” documentary. Details can be found on the Anime Expo community forum.
While there is no “Meet the Guest” scheduled for 2014, the “Nihongo de OK” event is still happening. Further information is available on the Anime Expo community forum.
Crunchyroll is a significant focus for the author, especially after their involvement with “Wake Up, Girls!.” Their approach to AX is described as somewhat similar to niconico, which is not seen as a negative. An updated forum thread provides details on their activities. Key highlights include the presence of “JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure” producers for a Q&A during the dub screening, and Aoi Eir’s appearance on the live stream on Day 1. There will also be giveaways both at the event and online. Crunchyroll’s physical store at the con will feature limited items for sale, including a Kurisu figure priced at $75. The author also humorously mentions a “Love Live!” event.
The IM@S (The Idolm@ster) panel is scheduled immediately after the Kill la Kill event on Friday. The author plans to attend, noting that the organizers are associated with “notorious overseas Producers,” particularly the main organizer. Attendees are encouraged to bring their KBs (from the Kill la Kill event). A cosplay gathering for IM@S is tentatively planned for Saturday afternoon at the Bandai Namco booth, located in the exhibit hall.
The author recommends attending the panels featuring Sushio and Kazuki Nakashima, anticipating a great experience. They also plan to attend the Ninja Slayer panel.
The “Giovanni’s Island” screening is mentioned as an event the author wishes to attend but foresees scheduling conflicts.
The 21+ Lounge will host idol-related events and also feature “these guys,” with details available on the Anime Expo website. The author expresses a possibility of attending.
The author concludes by stating that this list is comprehensive for now and that the post may be updated. A postscript notes that Otakon will announce its music guests the week after AX, likely starting with a “guess the guest” event.
