Just got home from a special annoncement over at Dentsu’s office. some major updates galore.

**UPDATE: Merchandisers list updated**

*EDIT* AFA website is up!

*some pics shamelessly ripped from naka-dashi.*

shamelessly pirated from naka-dashi

In this special annnouncement, there are a few new updates on serveral of the zones. First of all in the Mangaka zone, the management has managed to secure Shounen Jump 40th Anniversary World Tour as it’s final stop here! I used to be a shounen fan so i’ll be looking forward to seeing some archived works of my old favourites! In particular, forgotten favourites such as Flame of Recca and Black Cat! (Evil_overlord: wheres my JOJO?)

Shana is <3

Continuing on, the Anime Blockbuster also received an update. Popular series D.Gray Man, Gundam 00, Code Geass Lelouch of the Rebellion, Shakugan no Shana, Skip Beat and Domo kun are currently comfirmed gracing the event this AFA. I wonder if they will air the latest episode of Gundam 00 S2 on the same day (Sunday) as the Japanese airing timeslot as TBS at AFA.

Next up is an update which sorta shocked me. Akiba Town gets a major update this time round. Comfirmed guests include ALTER, Maxfactory, Goodsmile Company, Kotobukiya, Kaiyodo, Revoltech and Organic. These are the major players in the Figurine production line! I was thoroughly impressed when they even hinted some of the “limited release/first release” stuff that will be released on AFA. According to the management, Kotobukiya is also releasing a new Armored Core model kit only at AFA! This is very good news indeed! Other invited guests include local figurine/hobby shops such as La Tendo, Toys ‘N Toys, hobbyworks and KKNM.

This! Is! GUNDAMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMMM!

Following that, the major news of the day. First of all, Kunio Okawara will be making an appearance for the event. For those who don’t know him, he’s basically the father designer of the famous franchise Gundam. This is sorta a godsend for those who idolize and respect this world class creator. Respect indeed. (esp julis_firefocht. loolololol)

You WILL be listening.

The showstealer of the day was left for last. I was left breathless in a surprise short 3 sec movie clip at the end of the presentation, May’N, known for her performance in Macross Frontier as the singing voice of Sheryl Nome, will be gracing AFA ‘08 with her very own mini concert! Currently, more plans are going into the concert logistically as the management really want this to be a big success. This is May’N’s first overseas concert. In fact, this is her First Solo Concert Ever. Remember to bring the lightsticks cos she’ll be performing at least SEVEN SONGS! Entry fees are free!

(On a side note, it seems all the hardcore fanboys are ordering a copy of MAYn’s CD for signing at the event. anyone else interested in signing up?)

Can i has a breath now?

After the presentation, we had a brief Q&A session. Some interesting points were pointed out as well. Apparently there will be a changing area for cosplayers at the event site and entry fees are free for them too. In fact, there are special priveledges for people who join the event in costume. *hint hint* Some more interesting questions were answered as well, but oh wells, i’m not supposed to disclose some of the other things discussed there.

Well, given the rather massive turnout of fellow nerds/geeks/cool dues/0nes at the announcement event, im sure everyone is looking forwards to what looks to be a massive event later this year.
More news as soon as we can release it! Remember, Anime Festival Asia is a two day event held at Suntec City on 22nd and 23rd November 2008. Try not to forget, ok?