A few weeks ago, I stumbled upon this free online golf game that's currently in open beta. Originally Korean, it has since been translated into several other languages, including Japanese, and most recently, English.

Almost reminiscent of Gunbound (but with far fewer bugs), it presents a friendly atmosphere and is quite relaxing to play. Like any game of this style, RPG elements are integrated into the design, and you earn in-game currency to upgrade and decorate your character. While it's still missing most of the items that are in the Japanese and Korean versions, I'm sure they'll add them in as time goes on. Check it out at Albatross18.com.

I'm using the name YoumuKonpaku, so feel free to say hello if you see me online!

Status Report:
Well, after getting overrun by referrer hits from a random spammer, I have banned him and reset the hit counter to a more reasonable number. Next step - a better method of tracking unique visits. Maybe I'll be able to see how many "real people" actually see this site. (You're all bots, aren't you! >_>)

Misc. Fact: I now write random things for Anime Secrets, a growing review site that covers anime, video games, and manga. Go visit them!

Mai Otome (舞-乙HiME(オテメ)) Episode 1 first reactions:
It's different - but in a (seemingly) good way, so far. The artwork and animation are done nicely, and the music by Kajiura Yuki works well as usual. The OP/ED themes are jpop-ish, but catchy enough without being grating.

Mai Otome's storyline seems to take place in an alternate universe, with many characters returning from Mai HiME in different capacities, but with similar personalities (or at least, character design). So far, 3 'new' main characters have been established, Arika Yumemiya (who mysteriously appeared in the closing moments of Mai HiME 26), Nina Wong, a "serious type" character, not unlike Natsuki from Mai HiME, and Mashiro, who seems radically different from the Mashiro in Mai HiME, aside from a smiliar appearance. Also, she appears a bit manly for a princess >_>; These characters will likely be developed further as the storyline progresses. There's some sort of plot involving a mysterious conspiracy or group of evil people or something. Sounds pretty standard so far, but given what happened with Mai HiME, I've got good expectations. I'll definitely continue to watch this series.

Line of the day: Akane (to Shizuru): "...Shizuru-Onee-sama!"
I almost did a spittake upon hearing that one. Regardless of the fact that they're using that as a standard term of address among the otome, I guess Shizuru hasn't changed too much at all ^^;