Can even the simplest games teach us about the complexities of Japanese culture?
I dive into Metorid: Other M, and discuss how even the smallest mistakes in the localization process can cripple an otherwise decent game.
In the second half of this episode, I take the opposite approach and talk about the effects of too MUCH localization.
In this episode, I sit down with my Japanese gamer friend "Hutch", and we discuss the questions YOU, the viewer, asked.
Lots of changes have happened with the show, but I decided to go back and talk more on what I believe makes this show so unique and interesting.
I develop the urge to do my own top 10, and without thinking about it, discover it will take two episodes to go though each game and explain it's epicness. Some of these you may know, some may be new! ALL of them are worth checking out.
The last half of my top 10 games of Japan is complete! There are a lot of interesting games here, so take a crack at them if you can!
Let's see what Japan calls their pokemon, and see if they are just as creative as some of their English names.
After a looong hiatus, Goomba's back with a new episode. Continuing our journey into Pokemon. We dig deep into locations and Pokemon themselves to unravel the deep-rooted culture behind what seems to be a simple game.
A journey into the hows and whys of Japans dating sims, and how "effective" they can be.
Well, it's a little late, but here's Game Exchange's Halloween episode! We dive deep into the madness that is the NES game Monster Party, and see that it's not as strange as you think!
I step outside my box, and cover a country and its gaming culture that is almost completely untouched! I think it's about time too.
You wanted it, YOU GOT IT! Game Exchange Okami Marathon Part 1!
The next installment of Gaijin Goombah's Okami marathon with special guest Let's Player Chuggaconroy! ...AND WHY ARE PEACHES SO SEXY?!
We wrap things up for this anniversary marathon by touching on some of the fantastic locations and really broad concepts of Okami. I think I better quit now though before I do this for the rest of my life! Lots of new subjects on the horizon.
Double G and Kirbopher from TOME go head to head to see who can come up with the most random, obscure information about one of their favorite games, Super Mario RPG!
G.G. is so taken with a few new discoveries from Animal Crossing New Leaf, he HAD to make an episode about it ASAP! Learn about cucumber love, and how testes can lead one to financial success through one of Nintendo's most beloved franchises.
G.G. tackles the cultural inspirations from Gears for Breakfast's A Hat in Time.
Some people say that Mega Man 6 is one of the weakest entries in the series. Let me disprove that by showing you all the cultural and geographical inspirations this game has. For this first half we look at Plant Man, Tomahawk Man, Knight Man, and Blizzard Man.
Gaijin Goombah wraps up the last robot masters of Mega Man 6! How much culture is actually behind them?
Come learn some Japanese with one of the biggest up and coming indie games!
Everyone knows that Sonic the Hedgehog 2006 is SO BAD it's practically evil. But did you know that this awful Sonic game is all about the DEVIL? Seriously. Sonic '06 is so terrible, it is possessed by Satan himself. Gaijin Goombah and guest Super PsyGuy explain why.
So there was a mistake made, and I want to address it...
In part 2, we learn some of the neato tricks to understanding Kanji!
Pokemon X and Y have got Gaijin feeling a little Euro. So join our cultured chestnut and some special guests from The Dex as they explore the French culture in and around Pokemon's newest addition, Lumiose City!
Assassin's Creed 4 has you battling alongside some of the most notorious pirates in history, but who are these salty dogs, really? Everyone loves pirates, but what are their origins? The scurvy Captain Goomba takes you through the history of pirates so that you know who to trust and who to betray as you play through Assassin's Creed 4.
Final Fantasy games are rich in lore, but it's the games' summons that are really steeped in history. How well do the Final Fantasy games represent the stories surrounding each of their summoned beasts? Gaijin Goomba looks at the summons inspired by Middle Eastern tradition, including Bahamut, Leviathan, and Ifrit.
Final Fantasy games are rich in lore, but it's the games' summons that are really steeped in history. How well do the Final Fantasy games represent the stories surrounding each of their summoned beasts? Gaijin Goomba looks at the summons inspired by Asian tradition, including their gross misinterpretation of Shiva!
Final Fantasy games are rich in lore, but it's the games' summons that are really steeped in history. How well do the Final Fantasy games represent the stories surrounding each of their summoned beasts? Gaijin Goomba looks at the summons inspired by Greece and Roman lore, including what the heck Anima is supposed to be!
Final Fantasy games are rich in lore, but it's the games' summons that are really steeped in history. How well do the Final Fantasy games represent the stories surrounding each of their summoned beasts? Gaijin Goomba looks at the summons inspired by Norse Mythology, specifically how Odin, Gandalf, Loki, and Thor all relate to the Final Fantasy series!
The Legend of Zelda is a long-beloved series. But did you know it's more controversial than you thought. Gaijin Goomba takes us through some of the more controversial moments from Ocarina of Time and the original Legend of Zelda. Were these games really offensive to other religions?
To Western audiences, Mythical Ninja Goemon is a WEIRD series of games. Bizarre enemies, absurd weapons, silly costumes. But Ganbare Goemon makes PERFECT sense if you understand Japanese culture and history. So stop being an uninformed gamer! Here are all the references you don't get!
Ever want to learn Japanese but thought you wouldn't have time or the patience to all of the repetition and memorization that is required? Kickstarting game Koe fixes that by creating an JRPG that utilizes kanji and kana into the battle system and story of the game! VERY AWESOME!
Bravely Default is a BRILLIANT JRPG. But the game feels much richer when you know some of the cultural references behind the game's summons. With the help of expert ProJared, Gaijin Goombah is taking a look at all the Bravely Default summons, from a Noah-figure who drinks beer to everyone's favorite, the DOOM TRAIN!
Ninjas are some of the coolest characters in video games. But which ninja is THE BEST? Is it Ninja Gaiden's Ryu Hayabusa? The top-heavy Mai Shiranui? Or some other nameless masked figured in the night? Gaijin Goomba has the rundown of who is actually a true ninja and who are just poseurs.
It's a 100 Man Marathon! Players of Super Paper Mario for the Wii probably remember the Sammer Guy Kingdom and its Duel of 100. But did you know that this is a reference to one of the most grueling challenges in martial arts? Gaijin Goomba has the scoop!
Lucky Cat Mario in Super Mario 3D World is a bizarre power-up. Part cat suit, part Tanooki, it bestows some pretty interesting powers to Mario, Peach, and all the rest. But do you know it's cultural roots? And even more, the hidden symbolism behind the colors and gestures? Gaijin Goomba explains...
Elves and orcs are stock characters of anything fantasy. And, like in the game Order and Chaos Online, they always seem to be grouped into the same two categories: Elves = good, Orcs = Evil. But WHY? What is the origin of this fantasy trope and has this good vs evil classification always been the case? Gaijin Goomba has the answer!
Mega Man isn't a game series most people would consider CONTROVERSIAL. And yet Mega Man 5, an oft-overlooked game in the series, was BANNED in Vietnam. Why? Gaijin Goomba has the answer.
The shovel. It's a go-to weapon for so many video games, especially the awesome-looking indie game Shovel Knight. But a shovel...REALLY??? It can't ACTUALLY be a good weapon right? Gaijin Goombah has the answers that may surprise you. The humble shovel is a lot more effective than you would typically think!
Shantae is one the indie darlings that tragically gets overlooked. But this fantastic female character has never had her origin mentioned in the games. Where does she come from? Gaijin Goomba thinks he has the answer...and the clues he uses to get there come from one of the strangest areas -- her belly dancing!
Is Punch-Out!! racist? Or is it a bunch of Bald Bull!? ...Sorry.
We explain the cultural history behind the catfish from A Link to the Past.
CONGA! Team Fortress 2's newest taunt has people in a tizzy over the so-called "game breaking" dance. But ironically enough, the conga taunt in TF2 is just a case of history repeating itself. This is the FORBIDDEN DANCE of Team Fortress 2!
Gaijin is STILL going gaga over Shovel Knight. And what's captured his interest today is THE PLAGUE! Plague Knight is a FASCINATING character with a rich history from the days of the Black Death. What do bird masks and exploding rats have to do with history? Find out on today's Culture Shock!
Gaijin has LOST his mind...or has he? The new indie game Gunvolt has got him thinking about J-Pop, its influence, and the way its slowly looking to replace talented humans with its mind control. But surely he's just overreacting right? RIGHT?
Gaijin dons his armor to explore the world of jousting. From armored shoes to pointed helmets, jousting is far more complex than two guys rushing at each other with sticks. What can we learn about this medieval trope from a mobile game? A LOT, actually!
Majora's Mask is arguably the best game in the franchise...at the very least, it's certainly the most unique. But not only is it unique as a game, it's cultural influence is far different from most other titles in the series: It's African! Gaijin Goombah lays out the similarities.
I dive into something that perhaps horror games are not taking into account as they are designed.
Zombies...are...REAL! Surprise! Bet you didn't know that. There's a mysterious ritual in Haiti that produces its own version of "real life zombies," but this cultural ritual is one that is, to this day, very poorly understood. Gaijin Goombah takes a look at the creation of "real life zombies" and determines that our existing zombie lore is NOTHING like this ritual.
Who...is...Majora? After two episodes examining the African origins behind the game's villains and masks, Gaijin Goombah confronts the mysterious Majora himself. What secrets has the little chestnut discovered about this Moon Child of Destruction? The answer may surprise you!
Fox's Super Smash Bros. moveset has always been a bit...off. For a character you mostly control in a plane, there's not much for Nintendo to go off of when building a moveset for a brawler. But then WHY make him burst into flames and become an illusion? Gaijin Goombah has the answer!
Gaijin Goombah discovers what it really means to be in a tank tank TAAAAAANK! Are they truly as invincible in games as they are in real life?
Nearly three years ago, Gaijin covered the topic of Dating Simulations and the dangerous effects they were having on Japan's population. Now, he's back and out to defend these virtual vixens. Dating sims aren't just about...base desires...they provide MUCH more to the Japanese population, something every individual needs.
Akiterra debuts her new show about video games and how they help us understand animals in the real world! Beginning with one of the most terrifying video game animals in existence, the Cucco! What's even more terrifying is they ACTUALLY EXIST!
Toad Man is more Native American than Tomahawk Man. BELIEVE IT! Mega Man's infamous acid rainmaker is actually a reference to Navajo culture...and the depth of the references he showcases will TRULY surprise you!
Man...Greece is awesome. Seriously. Across all historical time periods, which tends to be the coolest? Greek history. You have togas, giant statues, angry gods, and of course, SPARTA! A city dedicated to WAR. But with so many games coming out featuring Greek history, just how accurate are they to real-life events. Goombah takes on Age of Sparta, a new mobile game, to show you how things COULD have gone during that infamous battle. Thanks to Gameloft for sponsoring this video and being a regular supporter of the channel. AND for letting Goombah basically rip into the historical accuracy of the game ;)
While Gaijin and Aki are in Japan, we take a critical look into one of Japan's most thriving gambling past times, PACHINKO! with nearly 17,000 pachinko parlors in Japan, there's GOT to be something magical and awesome when it comes to this game!
Aki dives deep into the unknown waters of one of Monster Hunters most terrifying beasts, the Gobul, and discovers its true origin!
Usually, religion and video games DON'T mix too well, but that couldn't be further from the case with Toukiden: Age of Demons. It's like Monster Hunter, but with a heaping helping of Shinto thrown in. But these references and traditions can be easily lost on the Western player. So, with Gaijin Goombah just getting back from Japan -- he's here to fill all of us in on this amazing game and inspiring culture.
Aki digs into one of her favorite nostalgic games and talks about Dagoba. Not the planet, but rather a giant antlion, and one heck of a fight. But how accurate is Dagoba to actual antlions? Or any antlion in gaming for that matter? Tune in and find out!
Sengoku Basara is a game steeped in Japanese lore, as every character you play as is representative of a real-life shogun from Japanese history. But just how true-to-life are these characters? Yes, the Sengoku Basara games are centered around anime-style beat 'em up action, but is there any semblance of truth behind those flashy graphics? Goombah digs deep to find out!
Splatoon's ink-based game play put Gaijin in the mood for a special dish not so uncommon around the world, but will still probably gross you out.
Splatoon is Nintendo's newest and biggest game series, so everyone is super excited about it. In Splatoon, you place as an Inkling, running and gunning to cover the battle arena with load and loads of ink. But is there a deeper story beneath Splatoon's surface? Gaijin Goombah was SHOCKED by the cultural references in Splatoon, references that may point to a deeper, hidden lore!
Aki dives into the curious biology of the Inklings and discovered their high flying jumps and color changing may be closer to the animal kingdom than we realize!
Today, Goombah is looking into the cultural history of everyone's favorite video game horse, Epona from the Legend of Zelda series. Not only does Epona happen to have roots as both a goddess and an Irish goddess to boot, this Zelda stallion has some other elements to her cultural backstory that Nintendo probably doesn't want you to hear about....
Gaijin takes a deep look into his home country of the U.S. in hopes of explaining just WHY we love blowing off faces in first person shooters.
A game that has confused everyone from Spoony to JonTron, Samurai Zombie Nation is a WEIRD game. You play as a floating head destroying the US. Seriously. It's a shmup-style shooter where your giant ghostly head destroys cities as you try to save them...and yet, it makes PERFECT sense. Goombah knows why!
Tifa is known as one of the quintessential busty female characters in gaming, and with the remake of Final Fantasy 7 coming our way, there's a lot of talk about making her more "realistic", but does she really need to change, or is she fine the way she is?
Whether you call him Bowser or King Koopa, there's no denying that Mario's famous villain is one of THE most iconic video game villains of all time. But did you know that this character, created by the Japanese company Nintendo, actually may have CHINESE origins. BELIEVE IT! Get ready Theorists, because Goombah is going to teach you a little bit about the Dragon Turtle!
From Duck Hunt Dog, to Rush, to even the Black Ops dog, gaming has seen a lot of K9's in it's time. But what pup stands out amongst the others as the most accurate dog portrayed in gaming? Aki's got the scoop!
Final Fantasy XIV has a pretty unique and diverse world, but going on right now is a holiday that mirrors real life more than you realize! Sorry for the length. This was just a fun little side project I wanted to do between larger projects.
What does Shin Megami Tensei: Persona have to do with our personality?? This Culture Shock dives deep into Persona lore to uncover the fascinating basis for the game's mitama and how they relate to real world culture...and to OUR OWN PSYCHE! Prepare yourself for a whole lot of education and more than a few references to the movie "Inside Out!"
Today, Goombah is diving headfirst into inky depth of Splatoon culture! With so many references to Japanese culture packed into the game it's hard to know where to begin, but this episode tackles the mysteries of the new Rainmaker gameplay mode. It turns out that this mode and the little fish that represents it is way more than just an in-game trophy!
Aki discovers the secret to the origins of Final Fantasy's most iconic yellow bird right under our feet!
Super Mario Maker is the new Nintendo smash hit on the block and is just now exploding all over the world...but how NEW is this game, really? This awesome episode of Culture Shock lets you in on the lesser-known origins of one of Super Mario Maker's most fascinating features: Automario, where they game literally plays itself!
We've talked Dragon-Turtles and Dragon-Fish; but now we're getting fired up with straight up Dragons! This Culture Shock delves deep into Dragon Nest to uncover 5 fascinating Dragon myths throughout history! Prepare yourself for a whole lot of Dragon education as we soar into the world of Dragon Nest!
Everyone gives LJN a hard time, and while I think a lot of it is deserving, for Friday the 13th, I think we may have overlooked a few things in retrospect of horror games today!
Aki makes a SHOCKING discovery when she finds the real life equivalent to Splatoon's very own Zapfish! Come learn how this electrifying aquatic animal is more real than you realize!
There are literally tons of FNAF theories out there (sure half of which are done by yours truly), and yet most of the theories stay very focused on just the elements inside the game. But GG has a different approach. By comparing real life Boogeyman myths from around the world to the franchise, he is going to see if he can solve the FNAF mystery... and win a little respect from the FNAF theorist community.
Clock Tower's Scissorman has always had a hazy origin. This daemonic scissor wielding murderer has been said to have been inspired by the slasher flick The Burning. But GG is diving deeper to find the first mentions of a scissor wielding psychopath to see just how similar he is to the one in Clock Tower.
While everyone is celebrating spooky Halloween, Gaijin and Aki turn to Skylanders and Dia De Los Muertos to find a whole new understanding of the Fall holiday season!
Yo-kai watch has just about dethroned Pokemon in Japan in terms of popularity. Does it have a chance at doing the same in the west? Is the game's Japanese-ness legit? Or is it banking off the otaku subculture? Gaijin has the answers!
Spoiler Alert! This episode explores what is considered a major plot twist in the Until Dawn story line. If you are planning on playing the game and want to avoid any spoilers, I suggest you go play then come back when you are finished. GG will still be here. So really leave now and read no further. But if you'd like to stay, GG is breaking down the origin of the Wendigo Legend. He explores the reasoning behind the artistic design of the creature and how the North American lore of the creature influenced its role in Until Dawn.
With the release of Yoshi's Wooly World, Aki takes a step back to analyze all of Yoshi's incredible abilities, and comes to find MANY of them exist in reptiles of the real world!
Yo-Kai Watch's cute, adorable, flagship monster may not be the lovable, little, kitty we are lead to believe him to be. Quite the opposite in fact. He is PURE EVIL! GG breaks down the origin of Jibanyan's Japanese origin in this episode - exploring the character's dark past.
After Gaijin spent a week in his bunker playing Fallout 4, he's come across LOTS of U.S. cultural references in the game. Here are the top 5 favorites! Mild Spoiler Warnings!
A lot of people have been asking me what I think of Dead or Alive Xtreme 3 not coming to the U.S. Well, between Boob shrines and "F Cup Cookies" I think Japan and the U.S. has a MASSIVE divide when it comes to how we reprieve bosoms culturally.
It's no surprise that we Theorists are big fans of the Zelda franchise. And with so many videos dedicated to the fantasy series what's left to talk about? Well, plenty. GG is diving into the culture of the Gerudo tribe and their Real Life counterparts - the Amazonian Women.
Aki has been getting request after request to cover pokemon. But where to start? How about a pokemon who's snap of the claw is as hot as the surface of the sun creating light and heat in the process? Yes, that is all true. Watch this episode of Aki's Pixel Pets and find out Clauncher is an overlooked powerhouse!
Krampus has had multiple movies, several appearances in T.V., and a long lost game called Daze Before Christmas, but what is he REALLY!? Is he truly the Devil of Christmas, or a misunderstood lover just trying to do his job? Come find out in this Holiday Game Exchange special!
Fallout 4's Synth already exist! Okay so maybe they are not quite to the terrifying extent that they exist in the Fallout universe, but it is only a matter of time. In today's Culture Shock, GG explores some of the stunning new robotics that are being developed and the inevitable robo-apocalypse we humans are headed straight toward!
From Mechwarrior to Gundam, there sure are a lot of mech action games. But they sure don't seem similar enough to fit the single genre of "mecha". What are these differences, and why do they exist? Gaijin Goombah's got the answer!
Undertale has meant a lot of things to a lot of people. Lovable characters, deep story, creative design. But to me, it means something deeper. It's a game about hope. Let me tell you why...
Undertale's city of monsters can be found in Ireland?! I'm there. Okay, so maybe not really. But in today's Culture Shock, GG explores the similarities between Undertale's underground and the Otherworld of ancient Irish myth.
Think you know everything about Flowey and the Golden Flowers of Undertale? THINK AGAIN! This game has more Irish culture than you can shake a stick at. Ready to discover it? *Hitting the play button fills you with determination!
There sure are a lot of stories behind Asgore, Toriel, and Asriel in Undertale, but I bet you didn't know there's far more information about who and what they are hidden right under your nose! Tune in to learn the ancient Irish past of the entire Dreemurr family!
Undyne and Alphys of Undertale. A mighty warrior in love with giant swords and suplexing boulders, and an otaku scientist with a secret crush. But is there more to them than that?
Gaijin Goomba is going back in time, farther than ever before, to study a culture that many of us probably think is pretty simplistic. But are we wrong in thinking so? In today's Culture Shock, GG explores the weaponry and combat of Far Cry Primal and the stone age cultures of the Mesolithic and Neolithic ages. Will the weaponry of Far Cry's newest game match up with our ancient history?
With the release of Street Fighter V comes cool new challengers like the charismatic Rashid from... Somewhere? Hang on... I gotta figure this one out!
From race master to cameraman, Lakitu has been around the Mario universe since the early days. But who is this cloud riding turtle, really? In today's Culture Shock, GG discusses the secret identity of Lakitu the Almighty!
With the coming of SMITE's Shinto pantheon as playable characters, Gaijin keeps his promise to analyze the various gods of the game to see just how legit they really are compared to their inspiration, starting with the newly released RAIJIN!
What is Sans? Sure he looks like a skeleton, but skeleton's don't bleed. Do they? In today's Culture Shock, GG compares Sans to one of the strongest undead in all monster lore, a creature born for revenge!
I'm almost certain the creators of Senran Kagura did all of that on accident.
The Shinto pantheon has been released into the SMITE universe - and GG is reflecting on Shinto's top dog, Amaterasu. But unlike the other gods in the game her powers come from her 3 sacred treasures. In today's Culture Shock, Gaijin Goombah delves into Amaterasu's lore to discuss the power behind these artifacts.
In this episode of Game Exchange, Gaijin explores how insane Japanese game Way of the Samurai 4 may be more legit than people realize!
Game Exchange explores the historic and cultural origins of the humble, unappreciated goomba. Happy Goomba Appreciation Day!
What started off as a simple cultural definition of character design turned into one of the biggest revelations of transgender and transvestite culture in video game history; and it all starts with boring, interchangeable Toad. In today's Culture Shock, GG discusses the similarities between gender swapping in Japan's culture and Super Mario Bros characters - Toad and Toadette
Today on Game Exchange, we pick apart the Super Mario Bros 3 coin ship bonus level and discover how even something so cryptic and secretive can have a HUGE cultural inspiration!
GG already dove into the origin of Fox McCloud in a previous episode, but where do the other characters get their inspiration? Apparently Japan's first ever Manga - "Scrolls of Frolicking Animals" seems to be a big source. These ancient scrolls are the first Japanese comics and are widely known in Japan culture. In today's Culture Shock, GG discusses the similarities between these comics, the characters in the Star Fox Franchise, and other cultural elements that play into the design of the series.
Today on Game Exchange, does the popular web game Kantai Collection, or KanColle(艦これ) for short, have an anti-American sentiment built around it? Or are the ship girls suffering from mistaken identity?
GG is talking about something both tragic and inspiring - Nintendo's Miis. These armless avatars have really made their mark on Nintendo's culture. But what if I told you these little guys have quite the depressing history? And yet, they still act as a beacon of hope for gaming (based on their cultural origin).
Overwatch has more cultural references than you can shake a stick at! But today, Gaijin Goombah digs in and shares his personal top 10 cultural references in Overwatch's alternate costumes and skins!
Whatup scrubs! Wanna "git gud" with the badass cyborg ninja of Overwatch, Genji? Let the history of TRUE ninja be your guide! Gaijin Goombah breaks down how culture can make you MLG!
With Overwatch rapidly growing in popularity (and rightfully so), GG wanted to take the time to look into the game's characters and their possible cultural heritage. Of course he was drawn to the dragon brothers - Hanzo and Genji. But did Blizzard confuse these two? GG is diving into the inspiration for these Japanese brothers to see if there is more than meets the eye.
Star Wars has fundamentally not only shaped movies and entertainment, but also philosophy. However, what if I told you the philosophy and heart of the Jedi has been around for hundreds of years?
Roadhog of Overwatch is many things. Junker, biker, criminal, and completely OP with his hook, shotgun, melee combo. But today on Game Exchange, we explore another side of him. ...A Polynesian DEMIGOD!
Pokemon Sun and Moon have been ALL the buzz lately! But while everyone has been theorizing about leaks, we may have overlooked a pokemon that, in theory, created the ENTIRE WORLD! Step back Arceus, today on Game Exchange, we talk about how Drampa is actually an all powerful creation god!
In today's Game Exchange, Pokemon GO has completely taken over the world! But why? What is it about this half-functioning, over-simplified Pokemon game that has people crashing into walls, falling into fountains, or WORSE!? Gaijin has the answer!
Dhalsim is freakin' weird - to say the least. I mean he has the ability to breathe fire, stretch his limbs, and even teleport. In today's episode, GG takes a trek into the mystery of Dhalsim in an effort to make since of his designs and abilities. And believe it or not, everything oddly made sense.
Screw the haters! Zenyatta of Overwatch is awesome! Between his heals, debuffs, and big brass balls, the guy has TONS of great Buddhist culture and history behind him!
Pokmeon Sun and Moon are doing some really WEIRD things with old pokemon! SERIOUSLY! Exeggutor has a super long neck, Vulpix and Ninetales, two fire type pokemon, and Sandshrew and Sandslash, two ground types, are now ICE TYPES!? HAS THE WORLD GONE MAD! Actually NO! Gaijin Goombah breaks down how these changes to Pokemon are more natural than you may realize!
With Persona 5 coming in September, I think it's time I talk about my favorite girl and BEST WAIFU of Persona 4, Izanami. She may be a death god, but damn if she doesn't have some awesome culture behind her.
Like the rest of the world, GG has been playing the crap out of Pokemon Go. And the other day he finally caught an Exeggutor (GG is a huge grass type fan - I don't know why). But this Pokemon got him thinking. In today's episode, GG explores the "freaky" nature of this demon tree Pokemon and its real life origins.
Yet another Pokemon Sun and Moon Alolan form, Marowak seems like a pretty simple inspiration from Polynesian fire dancers, but just how deep does the lore go? Prepare to be surprised by how Seemingly EVERYTHING about Alolan Marowak has cultural inspirations!
After two long years of you guys asking for a Minecraft episode, GG has finally found something of cultural significance that he'd like to dissect for you - The Origin of the Villagers. In today's episode, GG explores the architecture, clothing, and protective golems of Minecraft's friendliest NPC's to explain where these villagers have their roots.
Pokémon designs can sometimes seem pretty uninspired, and Pokemon Sun and Moon's lei Pokémon Comfey is no exception. But looks can be deceiving! Come learn how Comfey and lei's in general hold a far more sacred and critical place in Hawaiian culture!
GG has ventured across the Frozen Seaway, combed through the Jurassic Frontier, and even spelunked through the Volcanic Hollow, but he's found the origins of one of Monster Hunter's iconic Elder Dragons—and it may not be as far-fetched as you might think.
Yokai Watch 2 Bony Spirits and Fleshy Souls may look like a fun, kid-friendly game, but if you knew the dark history of the game's monsters, you might think twice about being a kid in this world of terrifying yokai! Like Kappa for instance. THEY STEAL YOUR SOUL FROM YOUR BUTT!
Bayonetta's character has always been a controversial topic. But GG is here to tell you that regardless of how inappropriate her... wardrobe might be, everything about this character is a spot on representation of historical witchcraft. In today's episode, GG explores the physical design, supernatural powers, and sexually charged personality of Bayonetta to discover just how historically accurate this witch really is.
Arachnus of Yo-kai Watch 2 Bony Spirits may seem like a stereotypical character, but behind the kabuki makeup is one of the most recognizable monsters not only in Japanese drama, but in their long-written history!
Finally, Pokemon Sun and Moons starter evolutions have been revealed! But one in particular, Decidueye, seems to stick out as an oddity with a Grass/Ghost type. Is it just to balance the other starters, or is there something more behind this bizarre typing for our Robin Hood owl?
After my theory on Pokemon Sun and Moons starter Decidueye, people have been coming from all over the internet with their own theories, and I couldn't be prouder! So here are some of my favorite fan theories that you guys have asked me to address!
In FNAF, you keep the animatronics away with lights, music, and sheet determination, but have you ever thought about the fact that that's not entirely realistic? And as crazy as it sounds, there IS a real way to defeat haunted animatronics, at least according to REAL cultural lore. No, your flashlight won't save you in the event of a real possessed puppet attack, but what you learn from this video will...
Sombra has finally been revealed in Overwatch, and with her came the conclusion of many secrets and analysis. But through her connections with Dia De Los Muertos, Sombra may have given us more clues to her dark past than she meant to...
Pokemon Sun and Moon's Incineroar looked posed to be yet another Fire Fighting type final evolution starter, but we got thrown a curve ball with its secondary dark type. A lot of theories have been floating around, but today we discover the very thing that makes this pro-wrestling tiger so dark!
At first glance, Pokemon Sun and Moon's Legendary Pokemon don't seem to match up with their types. Steel and Psychic? GHOST and Psychic? Come on. No Fire? No Dark? But after digging into these two and their possible origins, their types started making a little more sense. In this episode of Culture Shock, GG breaks down the cultural and historical origins of Solgaleo and Lunala.
Genji's oni skin in Overwatch seemed to have everyone, myself included, going bonkers to get it! I admit, it's pretty cool but it just... doesn't make ANY SENSE for Genji!
Seriously, what IS Alolan Dugtrio in Pokemon Sun and Moon?! With the help of Team Four Star's Megami33, we uncover the cultural inspirations behind this bizarre Alolan Pokemon!
Wrapping up Pokemon Sun and Moons starters, we dig deep into the cultural inspirations of Primarina. There have been MANY suggestions as to why it's fairy type, but today, we discover the truth behind the prima donna!
Princess Peach is THE DAMSEL of the video gaming world. But is she really in distress? Despite what you may have thought, Peach is actually one of the most powerful characters in the Mushroom Kingdom. Digging into Nintendo's lore and Japanese culture, GG explains why this lovable Princess is far from being a damsel in distress - rather she is an almighty Goddess!
The Winter Wonderland patch JUST dropped in Overwatch, and only after one loot box I saw TONS of holiday cultural references! So SCREW IT! Let's open 50 boxes and see just how much culture Overwatch crammed into the holiday season!
Reinhardt is one of the most German characters you can find in any video game. Loves Hasselhoff, eats currywurst, and is as chivalrous as they come! HOWEVER! Like many characters in Overwatch, his alternate skins give some HUGE insight to other myths and folklore from other cultures! So what is Reinhardt hiding under his alt skins? Let's find out!
Shantae Half Genie Hero has finally released! Having touched on Shantaes belly dancing style in a past Culture Shock video, I was super curious if Half Genie Hero had even more Turkish cultural influences within the game. Holy crap guys, you have no idea how deep the rabbit hole went...
As the new year arrives, a lot of people have looked back on Overwatch as their game of 2016. As a culture lover, I agree! But not for the tight gameplay and good design, but the small things. Like how Winter Wonderland Hanamura has one of the most important icons to Japan's New Year celebration, the kadomatsu!
What is going on in HELLO NEIGHBOR?! Murder and Satanic rituals abound, and everything our mustachioed neighbor does only peaks our curiosity! Well wonder no more because I've got you covered! From Faust to the hidey-hole in the basement, this episode explores the tragic truth behind the game's devilishly intriguing main character.
Overwatch has FINALLY released the Chinese Year of the Rooster holiday event, and HOLY COW there is SO MUCH to analyze! The Journey to the West Skins, D.Va's traditional mek and attire, and ...Mei is MARRIED!?
The Legend of Zelda is one of the most incredible games, EVER. IT IS NOT, as way too many people postulate, an EVIL GAME intent on spreading Satanic and Racist beliefs. In this episode, GG goes through the history of the Triforce symbol to debunk the conspiracy that Nintendo is using it to spread a hateful agenda.
The Overwatch Year of the Rooster update has been one of the biggest events in the game for me to analyze. I feel like my last video didn't do D.Va or the Korean aspects of the event justice, so let's revisit Year of the Rooster one more time and find even more SHOCKING truths behind this event!
The Dark Souls like Nioh FINALLY releases today to fans of hardcore gaming. But I wonder about the story involving a western white guy turning Japanese and fighting oni. Is Nioh's main character William Adams the worlds first weeaboo? Or perhaps there's more to his story than we realize...
In honor of Valentines Day, I wanted to have a look at Final Fantasy VII's Honeybee Inn! A weird introduction for many of us to Japan's bizarre world of love hotels. With themes ranging from Cup Noodle, to Hello Kitty S&M, to BATMAN! But what are the secrets behind Japanese love hotels? Are they truly as terrifying as western no tell motels? Let's have a look at the TRUTH behind one of Japan's most famous "conveniences".
Strategy games are fun, especially when you get to plan every facet of your Attack! In GHOST RECON WILDLANDS, your mission is to Take Down the game's infamous Santa Blanca Drug Empire, and you can choose any route to do it! But this begs the question: Where do you start? In this episode, GG takes you through his Cultural method to decimate the Santa Blanca Cartel!
For Honor's Samurai faction heroes of Kensei, Nobushi, and Orochi take HUGE inspirations from ancient Japanese warfare culture. But the Shugoki seems to come up short in that department. Surely they had to be based on SOME warrior! After digging through some fan theories though, I think I may have found the perfect fit between Shugoki and Japan's legendary warriors!
Naruto's hand seals and jutsus are pretty wild! With a few gestures, one can throw fireballs, summon lightning, move the earth, and even create life! While a lot of people dismiss Naruto jutsu as purely fictional, they're actually more real than you think!
With the release of Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild, there's something I've been wondering. In my childhood, I saw a LOT of Christian symbolism in Zelda. From the original to Link to the Past, I've been wondering how much Christianity really has affected the Zelda franchise. Hooooo boy you guys won't BELIEVE how far this rabbit hole goes...
Move over Kobayashi's Maid Dragon! We're going old school with today's analysis anime Sengoku Chojuu Giga! It might have a weird name, but THIS 2017 anime is hilarious, but you'll feel smarter for understanding Tokugawa's giant ball sack!
Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild has more culture in its game than anything I've seen so far this year! Even the Sheikah Monks who dwell in the shrines have HUGE connections to Buddhist culture! And this is only the beginning! Expect even MORE Breath of the Wild videos over the Sheikah, the Guardians, and even Ganon himself!
Overwatch's newest character is finally here. But where did Orisa come from? It's obvious her design has African origins, but Africa is a big country with a very diverse culture. In this episode, GG breaks down the many little design choices to explain the origin of our newest Omnic hero and pinpoint the exact culture and heritage behind her creation.
Gaijin Goombah dives into the world of Toukiden 2 for PS4 and discovers the fictional conflict between outsiders and insiders isn't so different from the conflict between Japanese and Gaijin.
Miss Kobayashi's Dragon Maid has been EXCEPTIONALLY popular with anime fans as of late, and with the first season winding down, I wanted to see if these dragon gals had any cultural inspiration. Holy COW do they ever! Also, Angels are not Angles! Last minute correction that was missed!
Mercy of Overwatch may be one of the most underappreciated heroes in the game, but she's one of the most cultural inspired characters I have ever reviewed in Overwatch. And in celebration of her insane usefulness in Uprising, I'm breaking down Mercy's TRUE Nordic origin. You might think she's some simple Valkyrie like Segrun, but you would be wrong!
As with most great games, BREATH OF THE WILD takes much of its art design from Real cultural sources. And in this case, Nintendo pulled from Japan's Jomon Period to design the entire look of the Sheikah! This includes everything from their ancient Technology to the Sheikah's clothing. In this episode, GG explains how deeply the Jomon Period of Japan influences the newest Zelda game!
After a long hiatus, Akiterra is back with more Pixel Pets about Pokemon Sun and Moon! Lots of Pokemon from these games have inspiration from real life animals. But it's Pyukumuku, the sea cucumber Pokemon, that have the most amazing similarities of its real life counterpart! Like the ability to cure CANCER!!! I know that sounds like clickbait, but there's official medical research on this! Watch and find out!
When it comes to Mario Kart's tracks, Rainbow Road is legendary. Heck, in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe it has three incarnations. Everyone knows it's both magical and frustrating, but I bet you DIDN"T know that Rainbow Road has some of the most amazing cultural inspiration behind its design!
With the glorious return of Samurai Jack in its fifth season, a LOT of people have been asking me to do a video about the samurai. But is Jack REALLY a samurai? Or is he something even cooler!?
BENDY & THE INK MACHINE is the game that finally combines creepy old cartoons with a deserved horror story. But is there a precedent to this weird tale of possessed ink stains? Yes, yes there is. In this episode, GG explains what kind of spirits are possessing the inky monsters in Bendy & The Ink Machine!
Gaijin Goombah has been teasing this show for a LONG time now, but Which Ninja is FINALLY LIVE! A show where we look at media's most popular ninjas, and see how they compare to the REAL THING! Today we not only discover the true shinobi origins in one of the most unlikely video game characters, SPECTER KNIGHT! Don't believe me? Watch the end of the video!
For Honor's Shinobi has some CRAZY moves and incredible reach with their kusarigama, but did real ninja have such crazy fighting capabilities with the ol' chain and sickle? Or is video game logic taking over historical accuracy? Let's find out!
With Samurai Jack coming to a close, Gaijin takes a look back on Aku, the series memorable and lovable villain, but for a character so corrupt that evil is in his very name, why do we feel for him? Ancient Noh and Kabuki may have the answer!
SUPER MARIO ODYSSEY looks amazing, but there's something missing from all the game trailers: COINS! This is wild considering that coins are everywhere in Mario Games. In fact coins are so plentiful, they've gotta be nearly worthless by now! Interestingly, this carries a lot of precedence in Japanese history. In this episode, GG shows how coin inflation in Mario's universe mirrors an identical problem in Japan's history!
ARMS is ALMOST out for the Nintendo Switch, but Ninjara has been on my mind ever since the game was announced. Why? Because Ninjara's origin goes far and beyond the shuriken hair and teleport jutsus.
This year at E3 was a crazy time full of new releases like Super Mario Odessey, Far Cry 5, Metroid Prime 4, Kingdom Hearts 3, and Beyond Good and Evil 2. However, my eye was carefully watching for new games with massive cultural inspirations to talk about in future videos. With that, here's my top 5 pick for games that have me the most excited for cultural analysis at E3!
Shredder from Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles is one of the most recognizable ninjas of all time. But after being defeated by the turtles time and time again, is he really that good of a shinobi? Today, we discover the real world roots in shredders original design and discover some... "interesting" facts.
ARMS is Nintendo's newest combat game, and it's amazing. However, the characters are often more fascinating than their abilities, especially when it comes to Min Min. In this episode, GG dives into the deep cultural history behind Min Min's name, outfits, and combos!
With the highly anticipated release of Crash Bandicoot N Sane Trilogy, I've been N Sane-ly curious about the possible cultural origins behind Crash. And even though Crash is a series about anthropomorphic marsupials and egg-headed super geniuses who fight alongside living masks, the true culture behind the game was both simplistic, yet amazing!
Splatoon 2 is only a few days away, but something has been bothering me when it comes to Marie of the Squid Sisters. What's up with her dark kimono? Does it mean that Callie is dead? After digging through the cultural connections between Splatoon 2's story and the traditional Japanese style of enka music, I think the whereabouts of Callile is the least of our worries...
Speed O Sound Sonic from One Punch man is an incredibly cool character. Faster than sound, deadly with a blade, and has a very unique design. But for all his talk to Saitama about being an ultimate ninja, just how good of a ninja is he REALLY? Today, Gaijin breaks down one of anime's most recognized ninja to see just how good culturally and historically Sonic truly is!
SUPER MARIO ODYSSEY still looks AWESOME! But has anyone wondered why we're snagging Moons instead of Stars this time? Well it turns out this Moon theme has a Japanese history! In this episode, GG will reveal the reasons behind the Moon's importance in Super Mario Odyssey.
The new dating sim game Senran Kagura Shinobi Refle was just announced for the Nintendo Switch just a few days ago. While some people have been dismissive or cracking jokes, Gaijin looks into how Augmented Reality may have just changed EVERYTHING!
Everyone loves dumb puns, but Splatoon takes the CAKE! But while some of them are suggestive like Pearl and Maria, or downright crazy like Crusty Sean, the Japanese side of this game not only hide even sillier puns, but some pretty deep lore of Splatoons origin!
In honor of Mega Maker, for this month's Which Ninja, we look back on Mega Man 3's Shadowman to see if he's just a Wiley weeb or a true shinobi! The answer may surprise you!
People once laughed at the idea of eSports, but it's clear now that eSports are here to stay! And the eSport that seems to be taking off more than any other is Rocket League...or Soccer. This begs the question: why are video game versions of soccer the most popular games in eSports? In this episode, GG dives into the wonderful world of eSports to discover the history of soccer & its start in gaming!
Finally! You can officially play UNDERTALE in Japanese! However, it's not so cut and dry. When Japanese players started the game, a very specific word infuriated many Undertale fans. In this episode, GG explores the Japanese language to reveal the power of word and font choice when it comes to translating something as nuanced as Undertale!
Kakegurui is the hottest anime of the Summer 2017 season, with amazing visuals and bizarre characters. But after I finished watching it, I couldn't help but feel there was something more than crazy girls in high school. A deep message laced within in the series.
Satoru Iwata was an amazing man devoted to Nintendo and the betterment of video games worldwide. Just last week, dataminers found a rom copy of golf hidden in the Switch! The Japanese internet community is calling it his omamori, but why? What does that mean? Well... A lot more than you may realize...
HELLO NEIGHBOR is full of enigmatic references, lore, and secrets that make it rife for theorizing, and one of the most curious elements like this is the game's use of the Russian language. Why are all of the signs in Russian?! Well it turns out that the game is full of references to Russian culture, and GG has uncovered one that may reveal a whole new side to Hello Neighbor!
Naruto's Jiraiya is one HECK of a character. Mentor, sage, pervert. He's one of the most beloved characters in the franchise. But there is an even GREATER folkstory to Jiraiya that is over 200 years old. Today, we look at how close Jiraiya of Naruto matches his centuries old inspiration!
Think Cuphead is a game from the deepest darkest recesses of the Underworld? You don't know the HALF of it! Gaijin Goombah shows just how unholy inspired Cuphead REALLY is!
If you've played Animal Crossing, you understand the joys of a relaxing video game that allows you to build your own utopia. But it's NOT the utopia you think it is! Animal Crossing: New Leaf took the game to some really dark places, and the creepiest part is something you probably missed! In this episode, GG reveals the ghostly spies littered throughout this seemingly friendly game.
Sure Mei's Jiangshi Skin in Overwatch is based off of the Chinese hopping vampire of the same name, but you have NO idea how far into China's culture this monster goes...
Super Mario Odyssey is just as good as expected, if not better, but there's a dark side to this game. Mario's newest companion holds a truly terrifying secret about his origin. Watch out, Cappy might not be as friendly as you think.
The Legend of Zelda's Sheikah have always been a mysterious people in Hyrule, but after seeing their latest incarnation in Breath of the Wild, I began to see breadcrumbs into their real world ninja origin. You won't believe how deep this goes.
The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is steeped in references to Japanese culture, but even GG was surprised to find how much NINJAS play a role in Nintendo's newest Zelda game. In this episode, GG will reveal the uncanny connection that Hyrule's Yiga have with Japanese ninjas!
Most Super Mario Bros. games have at least one "Japan" themed level these days, but Bowser's Kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey goes absolutely CRAZY with cultural references. Join Gaijin as he breaks each one down, and how knows! You might learn something cool!
When last we left Gaijin, he was deep within Bowser's Kingdom in Super Mario Odyssey. Which was DRIPPING with culture from Nintendo's home of Japan. But it's only getting crazier as a cultural clue might lead us to King Koopas true name!
Most Pokemon fans know that the Alola Region is based on the Hawaiian Islands, but the connections are much greater than that. It turns out that the Dugtrio are associated with an Alolan Curse that is eerily similar to a REAL CURSE that comes from Dugtrio's real-life Hawaiian counterpart! In this episode, GG will reveal the Real Curse of Dugtrio!
Pokemon's Greninja has not only been a fan favorite to many, not only had a star role in the Pokemon X&Y anime, but has been one of the most requested ninja in gaming for Gaijin to analyze! So let's break down everything about it, to learn just how ninja IS Greninja!
Legend of Zelda, Breath of the Wild's latest DLC pack, Champions' Ballad has you doing some crazy stuff, like beating monsters with elaborate decor and duking it out with 100 year old monks. But what's even more crazy is all of this exists in real life!
So we’ve already discussed that Princess Peach from Super Mario is a powerful goddess… But why is she called Peach? She used to be called Toadstool which was much more fitting for the Mushroom Kingdom. In this episode of Culture Shock, GG traces back the roots of Peach and why she is historically named after this particular fruit!
Despite how Logan Paul screwed up my new year, let's start things off right by diving into Animal Crossing Pocket Camp's New Year event, and how it gives us a window to one of Japan's most important holidays, oshogatsu!
2017 was a great year for video games, especially when it comes to original art styles. Cuphead, Bendy and the Ink Machine, and Night in the Woods are just a few of the gorgeous games released last year, but this is not the first time innovative animation has played a major role in gaming. In fact there's actually a game from 2006 that goes as far as implementing its art style into its gameplay mechanics! In this episode, GG will reveal the history behind the under-appreciated game, OKAMI!
There's always been a debate whether or not DC Comic's Batman is a true ninja or not. With the Ninja Batman movie coming out in 2018 you'd think at this point he would be, but why is he wearing samurai armor? Let's put the debate to an end and see just how real of a ninja Batman really is!
Hanzo's new Kabuki skin from Overwatch's Blizzardworld event might seem like a stereotypical pick for the Japanese archer, but when considering the history and ideology of kabuki, there couldn't have been a better character to give this skin to. Here's why!
You've asked for it for months now, so here's the MANY reasons why Zer0 from Borderlands 2 might just be one of the most historically accurate, OP ninja in gaming!
We've seen a lot of games that involve capturing monsters and having them do your bidding. Pokemon, Yokai Watch, Digimon, there's a LOT! But I bet you didn't know this was done in real life as far back as the 7th century! Come learn how Japan's onmyouji were the very first monster trainers!
So, EVERYONE kept asking me to cover Overwatches Year of the Dog skins, and I gotta admit, this years choices were really cool! But unlike last year, I have to wonder if they're truly accurate to the culture they come from. Did Blizzard nail it, or did they fall flat? LET'S FIND OUT!
Nintendo has always been at the forefront of gaming culture with the invention of the GameBoy, the DS, and most recently the Nintendo Switch - to name a few. But now they expect up to spend our hard earned money on overpriced pieces of cardboard? Nintendo you have gone TOO FAR!! . . . or have they?? What if we told you, loyal Theorists, that the history behind this launch is BIG. In this episode, GG explores why we should have seen the Nintendo Labo coming.
The Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles are almost solely responsible for the term "ninja" becoming a household name. But after thirty years of TV shows, movies, and merchandise, how "ninja" are they REALLY? And what will it mean for the new series, "Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles"?
Nintendo has some famous hats. Mario's and Luigi's. Cappy. And the pink blob with the unending closet - Kirby. Now Kirby's hats are just for fashion - they are a physical representation of his powers. But they also have a rich cultural history! Today Gaijin Goombah is exploring the origins of Kirby's many hats!
With the release of Kirby Star Allies for the Nintendo Switch, a lot of my Patrons and I have been really curious about just how ninja Ninja Kirby is. Does he "suck" pretty hard, or is Kirby's ninjitsu legit?
Nintendo is known for pulling inspiration from cultures all over the world but does it always do a good job? GG is here to investigate! Join us as we explore the cultural history behind Nintendo's "Mexican" Mario and the Sand Kingdom!
Legend of Zelda's Triforce has been a constant topic of Gaijin Goombah over the years, but Breath of the Wild has completely turned those theories on their head! But today, it seems he's FINALLY got the answer to just where in the heck the Triforce comes from in the culture of the real world!
A lot has happened to Hanzo in Overwatch recently. Sonic Arrow nerf, removal of Scatter Arrrow, some new rapid fire ability. But what Blizzard might not realize is the things they are removing is what makes Hanzo such a legit ninja in the first place! That and his dark past with his old clan the Shimada. How legit?
The new God of War is an amazing exploration of Norse Mythology. From the trailer we can see that this new setting is going to bring a ton of new characters and monsters. But, what do we know? Today GG is going to figure out what the game has in store for us all by exploring the history behind the games new setting.
Only old school fans will remember the anime Gegege no Kitaro, but this anime is well aware of the times. This anime has some TEETH when it comes to social commentary. Internet culture, YouTube, not even Logan Paul is safe!
Shantae, Half Genie Hero and her ninja costume DLC pack for Nintendo Switch and Steam might look as stereotypical as you can get, but what truths behind this adorable genie girls visage could their be? Is she 100% kunoichi, or just a crappy cosplayer?
We know everything about Fortnite by now, right? From the lore to the psychoanalysis of it's players, we've covered A LOT. Except, we haven't yet. One of the big lingering questions has been left unanswered, "Where IS Fortnite?" I don't mean the Island. Where in OUR WORLD is Fortnite?
"What are you, some kind of ninja?" Ever since Aizawa "Eraserhead" Shouta strung up Todoroki like a pinata in the hit anime, My Hero Academia, We've been wondering that very question. And after analyzing Aizawa's fighting technique, strategies, strengths, and weaknesses, you'll be AMAZED at how much the joyless and exhausted Aizawa sensei compares to the sneakiest warriors in the world, the shinobi!
Monster Hunter World is chalked full of amazing monster designs from the big nosed, butt winged T-Rex to a literally B-52 bombing dragon. But one monster in particular, the Odogaron, got my attention with it's cultural origins in one of the most terrifying yokai monster West Japan has ever seen!
E3 2018 for a lot of people was pretty average, but to us was a MASSIVE upset! Not one but THREE triple A games based around feudal Japan! Ghosts of Tsushima, Sekiro Shadows Die Twice, and Nioh 2! But is it possible their trailers gave more away than they should have? Breaking down the cultural references, we might have just discovered these games stories!
Pokemon has been around for YEARS! It has kept evolving and trying to keep things fresh. Except, I wonder, where does it get its inspiration? Today GG is going to show us what Pokemon has used in its research to keep its franchises ever growing. Theorists, I choose YOU!
Now more than ever it seems like anime has become more and more of a social commentary mouthpiece with shows like Darling in the Franxx, Golden Kamuy, Aggretsuko, and Gegege no Kitaro. Recently there's an interesting trend when it comes to how these show portray Japan's biggest social problem. Overworking and karoshi. But you may be surprised as to who's to blame!
Legend of Zelda has had some pretty crazy ninja in their game like the Sheikah and the Yiga clans, but how about THE ninja from Legend of Zelda? From Ocarina of Time, to Smash Bros, to Hyrule Warriors, how does Zelda... I mean Sheik stand up to the real life history and culture of true shinobi? You might be surprised!
The idea of "kawaii culture" has been a mainstay in anime and Japan itself for years now. But is the kawaii phenomena really so harmless? The anime yokai classic Gegege no Kitaro has always had a lot of social commentary in its episodes. But this one REALLY hits home...
Team Fortress 2's Spy has been requested for Which Ninja for a LONG time now, and it's easy to see why. A lot of his cosmetics definitely give him a shinobi vibe. But just how ninja is TF2's international man of mystery? And how closely related ARE ninja and our modern take on spies?
God of War 4 has been a monumental game for 2018 with it's deep character building and stunning visuals. But it left us with so many questions at the end. Especially when it comes to the fate of Kratos. However, looking at the cultural clues the game has given us, we may actually know EXACTLY what's going to happen to Kratos and Atreus for the next FIVE GAMES!
As My Hero Academia pushes hard into season three, Gaijin Goombah's been looking hard for an excuse to do another video teaching Japanese through anime/gaming. Much to everyone's surprise, he found it in the the most unexpected place in My Hero... Name puns!
When it comes to all of the ninja Power Rangers and their zords, there's one that people really love to joke about, the Frog Ninjazord. I mean, why have a frog when you could have a wolf, bear, or gorilla? But join Gaijin and special guest, the Black Ranger himself, Johnny Yong Bosch as they explain why when it comes to real ninja, nothing tops the toad!
Taiko no Tatsujin, or Taiko Drum Master here in the West, is making a glorious return on both the Nintendo Switch and Playstation 4. A cute and colorful rhythm game that's developed a cult following. However, I bet you DIDN"T know that not only does Taiko no Tatsujin teach you how to play REAL taiko, but also teaches about some of Japan's most important festivals!
Fortnite Battle Royale is a game Gaijin Goombah never thought he'd really ever talk about, but just a week or so back, Epic Games dropped the samurai Musha skin, and he can't help but wonder if samurai armor could REALLY hold up in an all out battle royale.
Luffy and the Straw Hat Pirates have been to some weird places in their travels in One Piece. But while their newest destination, Wano, seems to be just as crazy as every other country they've been, there's actually more "real world" inspiration than meets the eye!
When it comes to indie games, The Messenger seemed to rock EVERYONE'S socks off. Great gameplay, superb writing, but when it comes to the titular hero of the game, how does The Messenger stack up as a REAL ninja?
Mark of the Ninja Remastered is the PERFECT stealth platformer for the Nintendo Switch, PS4, Xbox, and Steam, and the very reason Gaijin started Which Ninja in the first place! But in retrospect, just how much does the game pull from true ninja culture? Is the Marked Ninja a true shinobi, or a tattooed faker?
We've talked about the anime Gegege no Kitaro a LOT on this channel with it's biting satire of Logan Paul, and the obsession in Japan of beauty and overworking. But with Halloween right around the corner, I want to talk about the five yokai monsters in this show that put "scary" movie monsters like Freddy or Jason to absolute SHAME!
Taki from Soulcalibur VI is one of the most well known ninja in ALL of fighting games. But just how authentic IS this gal when it comes to real life ninja history and culture? I mean with pups that big... Anyway, learn about some cool real life ninja facts though one of the most recognizable fight games in history!
There are SO MANY goblins in anime this fall. Goblin Slayer, That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime, and Overlord are cramming more greenskins than a D&D session. But seeing this trend made me think... What ARE goblins really? And are they as evil as fantasy makes them out to be? The answer may surprise you...
With the release of Pokemon Let's Go Pikachu and Eevee AND the announcement of the outrageous Detective Pikachu Movie, Gaijin Goombah decided it was time to break down one of the coolest Pokemon in existence. Charizard! But the origin of our big orange dragon maybe a lot more obscure than you realize!
Mortal Kombat seems plays fast and loose with a LOT of its use of Asian culture in it's games. Especially with Sub Zero's Lin Kuei clan and Scorpions Shirai-ryu clan. But after doing some cultural digging, it may not be as fiction as we thought!
With Super Smash Bros Ultimate right around the corner, everyone seems to be coming up with their own theories on the game. Especially the new big bad Galeem! With it's six angelic wings people have been saying it's a seraph angel. But what the heck really IS a seraph, and could Galeem be something far more evil?
We've done a lot of Culture in Anime videos over Gegege no Kitaro. From all kinds of social commentaries to the yokai themselves. But now, it seems this anime just called out YouTube ITSELF and laid out the hardest social commentary on internet culture I've ever seen...
Genji from Overwatch has been a hot item for Which Ninja for a long time. For months you've been asking us to cover him, and today, IT'S TIME! We're break down the good, the bad, and the unexpected of Genji seeing just how true-to-life of a ninja he is!
You guys have been asking for For Honor's Nobushi for over TWO YEARS now! So you know what? For my first Culture Shock of 2019, I'm going to make good on the promise I made back in 2017. Today we're breaking down the supremely BADASS Japanese origins behind Samurai's femme fatale, Nobushi!
Free to Play 3rd person shooter Warframe claims that "Ninja play Free". But based on the MANY requests made by YOU guys, I think it's time we look into the game, particularly the Ash Warframe, and see just how "ninja" these space shinobi are!
Afro Samurai is herald to African American culture in anime, and to this day is still one of the greats. And for Black History Month we wanted to break down the inspirations that make the series so unique. But there's far more to Japan's relationship with African people than culture. There was one man, a slave, that stood alongside the great unifier of Japan, Oda Nobunaga.
Spider-man has seen a HUGE resurgence as of late! And after Homecoming, Spiderman PS4, and with Far From Home coming fast, a LOT of people have asked whether or not our friendly neighborhood web-head is actually a ninja at his core. I didn't believe it, but boy was I wrong...
Pokemon Sword and Shield was an incredible surprise from Nintendo last week. Surprising more that the new Galar region is based on an upside down Britain! But just how accurate is the map? And what more can we learn about this new Pokemon world? You might be surprised at just how much a two minute trailer told!
At the turn of the 2000's Inuyasha stepped up and helped pave the way for anime in the U.S. and captured the hearts of people everywhere. Including myself! But looking back on the show as an adult and an analyst, I can't BELIEVE the cultural inspirations I missed! INCLUDING the two best bois themselves, Inuyasha and Sesshomaru and their connection to folklore yokai, inugami!
BOY I HOPE NO ONE CHECKS THE CALENDAR TODAY! After our video on Scorpion, a lot of you have requested we look into Sub Zero and the Lin Kuei connection to real life ninja history. Well, seems Mortal Kombat 11 gave us our answer in the bluntest way possible...
Ever since E3, we've been DYING to talk about Seiko, Shadows Die Twice. Everything from Sekiro's items, to his prosthetic tools, to even how he fights! But just how ninja IS the Lone Wolf? Do his items and gadgets reflect real life ninja? Or is the stab-happy Sekiro more samurai than shinobi?
Ever since the Power Ranger Which Ninja with Johnny Yong Bosch, we've had TONS of requests to cover the rest of the Ninja Sentai Kakurangers. But just how authentic are a group of chatty, color-coded, flashy "ninja" rangers compared to shinobi of history? Prepare to be surprised...
Yokai are EVERYWHERE in games and anime. Mario, Pokemon, Digimon, Animal Crossing, Pocky and Rocky, Inuyasha are ALL homes to these curious Japanese folklore creatures. But what ARE yokai? Where did they come from, and what do they mean to Japan. Today we're breaking down the FULL history of yokai for the soft launch of our new series, Yokai Watchers!
The anime GeGeGe no Kitaro has been absolutely SAVAGE when it comes to social commentary on YouTube and internet culture. But this one absolutely broke me. Through a yokai with an identity crisis, this anime broke down some of the biggest issues we YouTubers face.
On Which Ninja, we've looked at anime, movies, console and computer games... But today... We delve into the notorious world of visual novels to see if there is any sort of inspiration behind what are arguably some of the worst ninja to BOOT!
Sarazanmai is a deep anime about coming to terms with one's desires, secrets, and connecting relationships. BUT it also revolves around two of the most well known yokai of Japan. The Kappa and Kawauso. Today on Yokai Watchers we break down the lore behind these two folklore monsters to see what hints it can give us with Sarazanmai's insanely dense story!
Animal Crossing's Tom Nook has been called evil, greedy, and the worst capitalist in Nintendo's history. And now, he's in charge of Animal Crossings newest installation, New Horizons for the Switch. But what makes him so greedy? Let's look at his cultural inspiration to find out!
Final Fantasy 7's Yuffie has been the butt of many a ninja joke over the years since the games release. And with all the Final Fantasy 7 remake shown off at E3, a lot of you guys wanted to see just how bad a Shinobi Yuffie really is. ... But is she really so terrible?
The Fate series has no shortage of waifus of every shape and size. One of their most popular, Tamamo no Mae, seems like a kindhearted fox girl. But don't let her cute demenor fool you. Tamamo no Mae is pure evil, and the folklore behind her character tells us why!
With the release of Magic the Gathering's new set, Modern Horizons, ninja themed cards have returned to the grand daddy of all "children's card games". But what would you say if I told you that these high fantasy ninja were inspired by some of the oldest texts in this history of shinobi? ...Believe it!
Pokemon's Dunsparce is one of the oddest Pokemon I've researched. Love'm or hate'm for it, Dunsparce's appearance, moveset, and stats, make it one of the most illogical Pokemon to the community. But is Dunsparce so strange? Or is it's origin just shrouded in by another more mysterious creature of folklore?
The 2019 remake of Samurai Shodown heralds the return of one of gaming's most iconic ninja, Hattori Hanzo. But despite having the namesake of one of histories greatest shinobi, just how ninja IS Hanzo of Samurai Shodown? You might be surprised...
Demon Slayer has been an amazing ride of gorgeous visuals, driven characters, and the best imouto in anime, Nezuko. But there is far more to her and the rest of the anime's oni than you realize. An origin that dates back to 710 A.D. in Heian Period Japan...
Kami in Japan's Shinto religion have always been thought to be kind, benevolent, and giving. Turns out, they're actually a bunch of JERKS! Using Lord Arakawa from my favorite yokai themed RPG Onmyoji, let me show you how...
The Legend of Zelda, Link's Awakening had a LOT of weirdness to it. Featuring Goombas, Bloopers, Wart, and... Kirby? But the Mysterious Woods Raccoon screwed with my 10 year old brain the most. Little did I know that in 3 minutes of gameplay, I was introduced to EVERYTHING about Japan's most famous yokai...
Gaijin: *Fluffs tail* This fox girl can fit so much culture in it!
Think you know Promare and Fire Force? Come see the real life history behind these anime! The tough as nails, two-fisted peasant Edo fire fighting Hikeshi who fended the countries worst blazing disasters with their bare hands!
Halloween has been a thorn in Japan's side for a while, and the anime Gegege no Kitaro REALLY shows just how much the people disdain it. Is all this hate for the holiday justified? Or is there a bigger picture here?
A few months back, we looked into the folklore of Nezuko and Demon Slayer's concept of oni, but that was only the beginning! Today we're digging into every single antagonist oni and their own historical origins from Japan's early history!
With Pokemon Sword and Shield freshly released, I wanted to focus today's video on a gooey, goofy, fan favorite! Goodra and it's evolutionary line. While some claim it is the tyrannical French cryptid Lou Carcolh, I think it has an even GREATER cultural connection with one of Japan's oldest yokai monsters.
We all knew going in that Pokemon Sword and Shield’s Galar Region was little more than a mirrored UK. But where we have seen how Galar mirrors the UK geographically, what about it’s indigenous Pokemon? Today we’re breaking down the origins of our favorite Galar pokemon to see if Game Freak was truly inspired, or if they’re taking the mickey.
We're still riding the Pokemon Sword and Shield high with a breakdown of Sneasel and Weavile and their cultural origins with a well known weasel yokai in Japan!
Yes, I actually ate two year old ninja crackers for this one! It’s to prove the point that while anime and games like Naruto and Sekiro tend to present processed ninja food as some kind of magic medicine, it actually overshadows just how brilliant ninja were with their food on the go!
With Pokemon Sword and Shield's Isle of Armor and Crown Tundra announced, I've been digging hard through the Direct despite being sick looking for any cultural inspirations I could find. And gang, between the new regions, Kubfu, Urshifu, and Calyrex, I think I hit the motherload! Saddle up gang, cause I think we're going to PokeChina!
Monster Hunter World Iceborne reintroduces everyone's favorite electric pupper to much delight and fanfare. But did you know the good boy Zinogre has roots in one of the most terrifying yokai in Japan?
Ever wonder why Kotoko Iwanaga of In/Specter lost her leg and eye? We got the answer to that as well as a MOUNTAIN of kappa and other yokai folklore in our analysis of the anime In/Specter episode 1!
From video games old and new, to anime, to even modern mainstream media, the tengu seems to be EVERYWHERE! But what exactly are these avian yokai and what makes them so popular? Today, we're looking at their history, their rise in popularity, AND WHY THEY AREN'T FREAKING GOBLINS!
In a post Critical Roll world, Dungeons and Dragons has EXPLODED as one of the most popular forms of streaming entertainment. And like all popular media, it got NINJAS! But how legit are they? Today, let me show you the historical origins that built one of the key cast from the hit D&D Stream/Podcast, Greckles from the Unexpectables!
With everything going on with viruses, shortages, and so on, people have been really down. So today, I want to talk to you about an adorable little virus fighting yokai that has taken Japanese social media by STORM, and why it's so important!
After FINALLY digging hard into Nioh 2, I've come to discover that the game's done a good number of these yokai dirty! Today, we're looking at 5 yokai monsters from this game to discover their benevolent, super chill cultural counterparts!
With the announcement of Nintendo's newest multiplayer ninja battle royal brawler Ninjala, a lot of you guys asked me my thoughts on it's portrayal of these so-called "ninjas". While there is a bunch I will eventually get to, there's just one thing that I can't stop thinking about. That goofy Ninja Gum... And why it actually could make so much sense...
With the Digimon Adventure anime getting a reboot in 2020 and the game Digimon Survive coming not much later, I thought it was about time we broke open the surprisingly deep cultural inspirations that gave Digimon it's form. Starting with the most famous (or infamous) of ALL Digimon, Renamon!
With the advent of Predator Hunting Grounds being released a few days back, a LOT of viewers have been wondering just how "ninja" is Predator? I mean, they have a lot of the same weapons and tactics as historical shinobi, but can that alone make them true sci-fi ninja?
Today, we're breaking into the deep lore that surrounds Tom Nook and Redd's ongoing rivalry in Animal Crossing. But this isn't the first time tanuki and kitsune fought. Turns out the origins of this brutal rivalry is over 1000 years old! So let's see how Nintendo interprets it!
Spirited Away ranks up as not only my favorite Ghibli movie, but favorite movie of all time. Not just because of its beauty and story, but because of the INSANE amounts of Japanese Shinto concepts that created the film. So today, I’m going all out to pick out EVERY SINGLE cultural inspiration Spirited Away pulls from Japan’s extensive folklore!
Last time we looked into building an authentic ninja in Dungeons and Dragons using different archtypes, abilities, spells, and items. But there really is only one samurai. From Xanthar's Guide to Everything. Today, I want to break down this fighter archtype and not only if D&D's samurai's design really reflects who and what samurai were, but how to actually BEHAVE like a samurai in game!
Monster Hunter has brought with it some pretty unique creatures, but in my opinion, none more unique than Shara Ishvalda from Monster Hunter World Iceborne. From monster design, to attacks and behaviors, to even every piece of armor and weapons you make from Shara Ishvalda's parts. ALL OF IT has tremendous roots in Buddhism! And we're breaking down EVERY LAST inspiration IN DETAIL!
With Ninjala on Nintendo Switch FINALLY out, it's time to make good on my promise to see just how "ninja" these bubble-blowing kids are! Are we dealing with actual shinobi or pre-teen pretenders?
Today we’re tearing back into Monster Hunter World Iceborn just in time for the Alatreon update! Last time, we looked into the Buddhist origins of Shara Ishvalda, but you’ll be amazed at just how much it’s arms and armor teaches about Buddhism from all over the world!
Prince Zuko is a lot of things in Avatar the Last Airbender. Skilled fire bender, master martial artist, possessing the best arc in the series... But what of his infiltration of the Northern Water Tribe? Lake Laogai? The Boiling Rock? The Southern Raiders? To celebrate the series 12th anniversary of completion, we're going to take TWO entire episodes to explain just how "by the book" Zuko is at being a Fire Nation Shinobi!
With the release of SMITE's newest member to the Japanese Pantheon Tsukuyomi, it's time we revisit the god brawling MOBA and better explain why the kami of the moon is one of the biggest ponces in Shinto. With Which Ninja episodes on Jin from Ghost of Tsushima and Zuko from Avatar coming soon!
Can the Ghost of Tsushima REALLY be called a ninja? Strap into my longest Which Ninja ever as I break down why Jin Sakai the samurai might be the best one in popular media!
At long last it's time to have one more look into Prince Zuko from Avatar, The Last Airbender to see just how textbook ninja he is in season 3! Is he a perfect shinobi? Or does he have his faults? These answers and many more might shock you!
It should come as no surprise that Ghost of Tsushima is my game of the year hands down. But it's more than just Ghost Jin being a true shinobi no mono. While I take a break for my birthday, let me show you all why Ghost of Tsushima is the perfect "Japanese" game!
Ronnie "Oni" Edwards of Digressing and Sidequesting and I go on a quest to uncover all the unique Japanese aspects of both Kid Icarus and Kid Icarus Uprising in celebration for the return of one of Nintendo's oldest franchises made AWESOME!!!
Well, the Interview Episode of Gaijin Gamer should be out late this week. All I need to do is edit everything together. In the meantime, if you ever wanted to hear my real voice, or were just curious about how Ronnie and me put this all together, I present to you: The Japanicus Review Commentaricus... ....Ok I'll stop... Originally, this video was going to be an Easter Egg, but Ronnie gave me the OK to just flat out post this.
Today is Akiterra and my two year anniversary. I thought it would be nice to share with some of my viewers how we came to be, but also, what to expect when dating/being engaged to a true gamer girl.
With E3 coming to a close, I listened to a lot of people be opinionated... Well, now it's my turn.
I decided to make 'Sort of Podcasty" an ongoing thing because there are just some things I gotta get off my chest.
Uncensored! A little pet project of mine for a little while. Nothing professional, just fun. Highlighting my favorite moment in the Game Grumps series!!!
Gaijin Goomba and Akiterra give their impressions of Wreck It Ralph! ...Oh, and Gaijin digresses a bunch on something that only really bothers him.
Gaijin takes a break to talk about a few questions he's seen fairly often in emails and comments.
Working on the Okami episode has made me look back at the time when I was in Japan, and I think it's a good time to share it all with you.
I get my first fan mail ever today!!! So, I talk about it!
Aki and Gaijin make their own personal responses to the first episode of Troupes vs Women in video games. THESE ARE OPINIONS!!!!!! Has nothing to do with all the negativity and issues surrounding the show or Anita, just the first episode itself.
My personal feelings with this whole thing... Maybe I shouldn't say it, but I feel like I should.
A big thanks to Spoony for inspiring this tale of high flying adventure! Gaijin Goombah takes a break from video games, and talks about his greatest adventure in tabletop gaming! At least, as close to the story as I remember... But this is why I played D&D.
After all is said and done, who is REALLY to blame now? While working on the next Game Exchange and pilot episode for a new show, I wanted to give my two cents about everything that has happened since the beginning of On-Disk DLC to the XBone. Goombah Rage! Anything and everything for a young chestnut to rage about.
Gaijin Goombah and Language Automation, Inc. have come together to bring you a show that will shed light in various localization issues we take for granted. The Fumon Clan have exploded in number, and are causing mayhem all over the gaming worlds through the internet. It's up to the dynamic duo of Laizer and Gaijin Goombah to put down the threat of widespread torrent of ignorance and misunderstanding that the Fumon have unleashed.
As G.G. recovers from his sinus infection, and starts work on the next Game Exchange, he invites you to think about what retro games have inspired gamers to think and do, and how modern gaming may have diluted that.
The original hypocrisy that birthed Game Exchange. I'm still freaking sick of it...
LAIzer and Gaijin go in depth about how dire the situation with the Fumon is. And how the Fumon dabbling in localization could cause some big problems.
Learn how to not be forever alone!
Gaijin Goombah and LAIzer fight off the meddling Fumon to save the China sector of the video game world. While they clean up, they discuss the various localization issues that China faces today!
Gaijin Goombah takes a step back and personally explains his thoughts on the buzzword of gaming: nostalgia.
It's been 6 months coming, but I'm finally catching up to all my fan mail. Thank you SO MUCH GUYS!
After raging about Miku, I want to come back to the MANY good things that made me love Japan. Basically draw my life meets show and tell.
Just hitting the months mailbox and catching you guys up on what's going on.
Gaijin Goombah shares his knowledge of taiko from his time in Japan, even shows you his first performance!
I've had quite a bit to say about The Legend of Zelda in the last few years, but I think now, after a lot of thinking about the past, present, and future, I think I can come to a solid conclusion.
Gaijin and LAIzer track down the Fumon to the Middle East and Africa Gaming sector, only to find they're too late. What sort of trouble have the Fumon caused now?
For Valentines Day, G.G. and Aki tell the story of how they met by random chance!
So, you've finally gotten that once-in-a-lifetime chance of going to Japan, FINALLY! But, where IN Japan do you go? Osaka? Tokyo? Kyoto? We'll I've got you covered baby! I've seen the North and South of Japan, and here's my suggestions.
International censorship sucks. It sucks because artists are limited to the possible audience they can get, but freedom is a double edge sword. If you seriously are going to tell me that you believe in freedom of expression and choice, then tell a country who collectively doesn't want it in their country... you know THEIR CHOICE, that they are against freedoms, you're a hypocrite.
You guys made some good points! Let's talk about them!
Hundreds of Goombas die every day... But what thanks do they get for their suffering? Nothing. Nothing but injustice, discrimination, and total depreciation. You... Me... WE can change this...
With Spring FINALLY upon us, Gaijin recollects Hanami, one of his favorite times of year in Japan.
G.G. is so tired of hearing complaints about Samus that he literally can't sleep...
So... I thought some more about what I talked about a few months back...
So... Quick response...
In celebration of Mega May, I gush over my favorite video game, and explain why it doesn't deserve such a bad rap.
LAIzer and Gaijin reach the Latin America sector to fight off the Fumon. From there the duo discover the evil, but VERY subtle plan to cause mischief for Latin America's gaming market!
With all the talk about my voice poll, I wanted to finally archive my reasons why I work in the format that I do.
I turn 30 today... Let me ramble in my rocking chair why that changes my opinion of gaming and the gaming industry.
We still get riled up as a country over over-sexualization in video games. But is it simply for the benjamins? Or is there another reason...?
Sorry it's such a heavy topic guys, but it needs to be talked about...
It's been a long running argument that I think I've finally came to a decent conclusion.
Just another "Oh Japan" moment? THINK AGAIN! Gaijin has his own take on the interpretive imagery of the Viral Japanese anime music video ME!ME!ME! WARNING: There are a lot of censored boobs.
Gaijin's been throwing around a lot of Japanese terms in his latest videos. But what do they REALLY mean? And what does it mean for nerds and geeks worldwide?
Explaining the hypocrisy of sexuality and violence in mature rated games. Nope, I'm still not shutting up about it until something changes.
Well now that things are back to normal, Gaijin wanted to share some of his experiences whilst in Japan. So tell me... What do you get when you cross gigantic monsters with terrible singing?
Kickstarter has been an amazing way for developers and gamers to bring to life all sorts of new IPs and spiritual successors, but there's a big risk when Kickstarting games. Gaijin goes in depth in what he believes to be a hidden pitfall for both gamers and developers when it comes to Kickstarted games.
Square Enix has chosen Gaijin and Aki transverse the wild yet stunning world of FINAL FANTASY XIV, A Realm Reborn on PC in celebration of the expansion Heavensward! From the wild forests of Gridania to the neon glow of the Gold Saucer, our dynamic duo dive deep into this dynamic game. And, in the process, stumble upon a neat idea for a future Culture Shock video while analyzing the game. While this video was sponsored by Square Enix and FINAL FANTASY, the game really is solid and worth a look if you like MMO's.
Square Enix was so happy with the first video, they asked for one more video to sponsor! But now it's AKi's turn to try FINAL FANTASY XIV, A Realm Reborn as an adorable Miqo'te. Fair warning, there's lots of girlish squeeing in this episode as we cover some of the more cinematic elements of the game! Aki also drops her OWN teaser bomb talking about the ORIGINS OF THE CHOCOBO!
With all of this hullabaloo about Fatal Frame Lady of Black Water and the unlockable sexy costumes being taken out for the U.S release, is this really censorship of art? Or is there more going on here?
In the early days, RPGs both Eastern and Western were very similar, and created a very unified fanbase. But after looking through JRPGs like Xenoblade Chronicles X and Fallout 4, there's a growing rift between WRPGs and JRPGs. Why? Gaijin Goombah's got the answer.
Not much is known about Pokemon Sun and Pokemon Moon. However in this fast episode of Goombah's Real Talk, we discuss how just the title may have spoiled the entire plot of the game!
With the advent of games like Dead or Alive Xtreme 3, Senran Kagura, and other "fanservice" games, it makes me wonder, what really is fanservice? How does our gaming culture define it? What should it REALLY be?
Overwatch's Tracers butt is seeing a lot of controversy in what people want and what the devs want. Buncha people posting about it. It's 6am. Here's what I think. (___Y___) Butts. Goodnight all.
Gaijin reaches out to a long time Japanese friend and fellow gamer to discuss how Final Fantasy XV, a game being credited as innovative in the West, may actually be cliche and overdone in the East.
Gaijin and guest Akidearest sit down and discuss their history, definition, and in depth thoughts on a word that has haunted the video game and anime community for years... Weeaboo.
Gaijin gets personal with his story of how fandoms ruined anime for him for many years, and not only how he was able to get back in, but how you can keep yourself from the same fate.
Kill La Kill's Satsuki is a cold, hard, merciless, and cutthroat anime character. But if you only knew her hidden cultural identity, you might understand why.
"Is Anime Racist?" Has been debated for years now, but Gaijin want's to bring his own unique experience to the table in hopes of answering the question once and for all.
With a busy summer underway, Gaijin Goombah and Akiterra take a break to host the first of hopefully many Q&A videos! If you want to submit your own question, be sure to #AskGaijin on twitter! Your question might be next!
Overwatch has been in a lot of hot water lately with people claiming it's culturally appropriating several different groups. But if everything cultural were taken out of popular games like Overwatch, what would the real end result be? You might be surprised.
Kubo and the Two Strings is an AMAZING movie from Laika. Tons of cultural references, a fun and exciting adventure, and beautiful stop motion animation, but I bet you DIDN'T know it's likely a spiritual sequel to one of Japans oldest and well known folk stories!
Kubo and the Two Strings is yet another example of people becoming increasingly concerned about Hollywood white washing in movies. But was Kubo REALLY such a blatant example? Or was it so good at sticking to its Japanese roots that no one even noticed? LET"S FIND OUT!
Just got back from Japan, horrible jet lag and head cold, playing Overwatch, and I decide in a hazy NyQuil-fueled state to try and explain why I and so many other like me seem to never get enough of Japan in games and anime!
Godzilla is scary no doubt, but the message behind the movie is far, FAR more terrifying. Is it just another giant monster movie? Or is there something far more mortifying and terrible in Shin Godzilla?
Disney's Moana is finally out, and it's packed to the BRIM with Polynesian culture! But how accurate is it? Is Moana another Pocahontas, or do Maui, Moana, and Te Fiti have truth in their origin? The answer may surprise you!
Having seen the Nintendo Switch presentation in Japan, a LOT of us are hyped! However, I've been thinking a lot about WHY Nintendo made the jump to an all-in-one device. What is Nintendo competing with in this model? I think the answer might surprise you!
Gaijin Goombah and Joey the Anime Man dive head first into WTF is up with Japan's fetish with high school! So many Japanese games like Gal Gun focus so heavily on it. But why? Is it REALLY creepy, or is there a deeper reason behind it?
Big name anime like One Piece, Yuri on Ice, Fairy Tail, Mr. Osomatsu, and Assassination Classroom have been BANNED from being exported from Japan! The anime community is outraged and trying to understand why Avex Group would do such a thing! Are we going back to the dark ages, or is there some logic behind this ban?
Today marks the 6th anniversary of Japans most devastating natural disaster in history. The Tohoku Earthquake that rocked the entire northern half of Honshu. While Japan is rebuilding, it is FAR from done. I was actually living in Japan at the time and though I was safe from harm, the effects of the destruction was felt all over the country. Even where I lived. This is my story of what I saw, felt, and experienced as a foreigner living in Japan during this time.
The Death Note Netflix live action movie has got a LOT of people upset. and why wouldn't they? After movies like Dragonball Evolution, The Last Airbender, and the mixed feelings towards Ghost in the Shell, people feel like their favorite anime is getting culturally abused. But when it comes to Death Note, is it really going to be so terrible?
Mature content in video games has always been a public hot topic. And today's sponsored game Kamihime, which does have a NSFW version, got me thinking as to why some games get away with being mature and others don't. Is it governed by law, or by our own cultural perspectives? Gaijin Goombah breaks down the whys and hows with localization and censorship!
My Hero Academia has a ton of things going for it. Great animation, great story telling, and a full cast of wonderfully written characters. But it's message of individuality and risk vs reward has got to be one of the most important messages an anime set in Japanese high school can teach! Gaijin Goombah and Joey the Anime Man break down the deeper brilliance My Hero Academia brings to its audience!
You do you Logan. But don't do it at others expense. Especially those who are gone. Cause you have no idea how much harder you made it for foreigners in Japan.
It has been a long running question that MANY anime and gaming fans have been asking for years now. Shows like Dragonball, Pokemon, Yugioh, One Piece, and many more have been gained a MASSIVE following outside of Japan. That, with new distributors like Crunchyroll, Netflix, and Amazon, it seems like it's possible, but I think there are two REALLY BIG things that might be holding it back...
The Japanese yakuza are seen in games and movies as being hot-headed, brutal, and exceptionally antagonistic. But speaking from experience living next to them, what were they REALLY like? Gaijin Goombah's answer might surprise you...
My Hero Academia, Aggretsuko, and Darling in the Franxx are only just a few of the fantastic new show's that came out this year. And during my two week stay in Japan, imagine the thrill of picking up merch of these shows from the very "Mecca" of anime and games, Akihabara. But what started out as joy, quickly turned into disappointment, then fear...
Batman Ninja was something we were all stoked for, but when it finally came out most of us we're less than impressed. But is Batman Ninja really such a stinker? Or are we missing some context to make this anime movie great?
A lot of people have been asking for another story time video about Gaijin's experience in Japan, and with Halloween right around the corner, we got a good one. A tale of heart-pounding fight or flight... But not nearly what you'd expect...
Japan is known for a LOT of weird things, but Honensai or Honen Matsuri REALLY takes the cake! There seems to be a celebratory focus on what may appear to be crass on the surface. But what is Honensai REALLY about? Let's look past the western-made vulgarity, and see what this matsuri is REALLY about!