Higurashi Kai (2nd Season) - General Discussion

[kj1980]

Those who can read Japanese:
http://d.hatena.ne.jp/moonphase/20061206

For English-only members:
http://forums.animesuki.com/showpost.php?p=760046&postcount=1024



Ah, the most trusted source of info for upcoming anime, Moonphase!!!
C'mon, let it be Kyo-Ani!! Pretty, please~?



Info will be posted as more information are released. By now you should all know the term: "If MoonPhase doesn't know, no one knows." Hence, don't bother to ask incessant questions (i.e.: what chapters, is it a remake, etc. etc.) Speculations are of course, welcome.

[Dagger]

Has there been any indication of what part of the story this will cover? Just the chapter(s?) that were never animated? Or could it be a rehash of some kind? I'm afraid I'm a bit out of the loop when it comes to Higurashi. :heh:

[Supergrunch]

This is great news. I'd be happy if it were already animated arcs remade or new arcs...

[Gains]

If KyoAni takes it then we can rejoice.

Problem is how many episodes would it take to create a great Higurashi.

Considering the arcs that we know:
For remake, we have got 2 branches. Visual Novel (8 arcs) and PS2 (9 arcs?). 26 episodes=impossible. It would be just the same as DEEN.
Animating just Minagoroshi and Matsuribayashi, I think 12-14 episodes would not be enough but I don't know whether 24-26 episodes would be too long.
Or KyoAni (I wish) might use the Fumoffu way and did Higurashi Daybreak :heh:

My wishes:
Please no weird face contortions.
Please use music from the visual novels.
Please do the whole Meakashi Epilogue with Confession as the BGM.

Now, who would you want as Hanyuu's seiyuu? I'm dying to hear "Auauau~" in the anime.

[Supergrunch]

Now, who would you want as Hanyuu's seiyuu? I'm dying to hear "Auauau~" in the anime.
I'd imagine she already has one in the drama CD, and as far as I know all the seiyuus in that are the same as in the anime.

[Quajafrie]

My wishes:
Complete remake. 52 episodes for everything.
Please, replace that stupid crappy seiyuu for Keiichi with someone with a more 'fitting' voice.
Less focus on horror and more on characters and story.
No Studio DEEN.

[Sheba]

I just wanna see Hanyuu and hear "au au au", that's all. =)


Addendum: Who would you fit Keiichi more than the one we heard? I meant this question for those who have played the games and have a better insight of his personality.
All the other VAs were perfect as their characters imo.

[Misuzu]

Oh gosh! I'm almost finished watching the current series, and now I'm torn as to whether or not I should read about the un-animated chapters on the forums.

It'd be fantastic if they redid the whole series and made it longer and more fleshed out, though. I have loved watching this show, but I'm hesitant to recommend it, because I don't think I would enjoy it as much without the tips and such being posted at these forums.

Oh well. I'm excited about this no matter what. ^^

[Kisuke06]

Ah, it would be amazing if KyoAni animated it.~

I do hope that we get Minagoroshi-hen, Taraimawashi-hen, Tsukiotoshi-hen and Miotsukushi-hen. But I won't complain if we get just Minagoroshi-hen and Matsuribayashi-hen.

A complete remake would be nice too.

Well, let us wait~

[kj1980]

Now, who would you want as Hanyuu's seiyuu? I'm dying to hear "Auauau~" in the anime.

It's pretty much set that the voice for Hanyu is Hocha (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Horie_Yui). Well at least the advertisement voice for Higurashi Matsuri sounds very much like her.

Moe~. On one hand you have her saying "uguuu~" and now we can hope to hear her lovely voice saying "auauau~."


Please, replace that stupid crappy seiyuu for Keiichi with someone with a more 'fitting' voice.

Well it's too late for that. They've chosen Kira Yamato Hoshi Souichirou (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hoshi_Souichirou) ever since the first drama CD. Besides, you kinda get used to his voice - his voice is perfect for a prepubuscent teen undergoing the first stages of adolescence.

[Supergrunch]

What about Satoshi's seiyuu? I only realised when rewatching Meakashi-hen, but he sounds a bit too much like a girl...

[Sushi-Y]

C'mon, let it be Kyo-Ani!! Pretty, please~?
They did mention the possibility of animating Higurashi, but even if that's the case, considering Kyoani's 2007 schedule, it'll be pretty long wait.

Well, the fact they called it "second series" instead of "second season" is interesting too. Will it really be a remake, I wonder?

What about Satoshi's seiyuu? I only realised when rewatching Meakashi-hen, but he sounds a bit too much like a girl...
Satoshi is voiced by Kobayashi Yuu, after all.

[Ichy]

Oh God, I just read this in a thread @ 4-chan :D

I Cannot explain how happy it makes me. I wanted this even more than Nanoha StrikerS ^^

[kj1980]

What about Satoshi's seiyuu? I only realised when rewatching Meakashi-hen, but he sounds a bit too much like a girl...

Because Satoshi's voice was done by Kobayashi Yuu (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Yu_Kobayashi). In all fairness though, Yu-tan's is one of my seiyuus on my "watch-for" list.

But there is one thing I would really want: more scenes with the MILF, Akane-sama!

[Keriaku]

I hope they animate the new arcs from the PS2 games and maybe even the manga only arcs.

[lana3007]

I knew it! I just knew it! If Kanon and Negima got remakes, there would be no way in hell that Higurashi wouldn't get at least a continuation. Remake would probably be best, it will be so nice to see the first series with decent character design.

I doubt we will get Kyoto Animation though, that might be a bit too much to ask for. But hey if that does happen what are the bets that Tomakazu Sugita (SHnY's Kyon) will be the new voice for Keiichi?

[Ialdaboth]

OH YES !!

Please, let it be a 13-episodes series with Minagoroshi-hen and Matsuribayashi-hen. Miotsukushi-hen would be a nice bonus.

[Sorrow-K]

C'mon people. As much as we'd like, KyoAni can't do everything. Anyway, if they get the same director back, I have no qualms with this going to DEEN again. Higurashi's never been about the animation as it is the atmosphere. But, if it goes to a Madhouse or even a BONES, I certainly wouldn't complain.

Absolutely ideally, this would be a 10-13 episode animation of Minagoroshi-hen and Matsuribayashi-hen. I don't see the point in a total remake overhaul, KyoAni Kanon 2006 style. Higurashi only had two major flaws, IMO: animation and incomplete story. Everything else was minor... music (I agree, it wasn't outstanding) to even K1's seiyuu choice (I didn't like him either... nor Satoko.... but everyone else was golden), but none of these are enough to justify a total start-from-the-beginning-again.

The big question, IMO, isn't the "who's involved", but the dates. I think the quicker this happens, the better for all involved.

[Shiroth]

I'm a lil' shocked - though it all depends on what the plan for this is. Looking forward to hearing more news~

[Guido]

I wonder if they'll be animating the manga side-story arcs:

Onisarashi-hen or Yoigoshi-hen

Or the original chapter arcs featured in the PS2 game: Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Matsuri
Taraimawashi-hen
Tsukiotoshi-hen
Miotsukushi-hen

[Shuin4]

Yeah, it would be amazing if Kyo Ani did it, but that's extremely doubtful. I wouldn't even mind if J.C. Staff did it, but it's most likely going to be Studio DEEN, though it is possible a lot of fans told them they suck ass so they gave the rights to another studio. Even if it is DEEN, someone please give them some kind of budget, or hire better animators. That's really the only thing in Higurashi that needed to be greatly improved.

[Skyfall]

OMG this is absolutely great! I doubt this will be a complete remake, i think they might animate Minagoroshi-hen and Matsuribayashi-hen (tho i wouldn't mind if it were a complete remake- as long as they finish the story). Yea, it would be a wet dream if KyoAni would be doing this, but somehow i doubt this dream will come true:heh: . At any rate - these news are fantastic.

[FatPianoBoy]

This is easily the best news I've heard all week. And I even got a Wii today :heh:
Here's to hoping for Minagoroshi and Matsuribayashi. And much Hanyuu love :D

[theacefrehley]

Seriously

If this news is true it will be the same as saying:

"DEEN, scr** you. Are you amateurs or what? Let me show you how to do the things"

It's too soon, IMHO

If I were to choose I'd pick:

More 26 eps, covering Matsuribayashi, Minagoroshi, manga side stories (2 short) and game original scenarios (two of them, the third I heard is like a ending scenario replacing Matsuribayshi)

Since I don't have the slightest idea of the PS2 scenarios, I'd suppose they are not something sooooo big

But 14 for Minagoroshi and Matsuribayashi would be fine too

blee

[-EV-]

wohooooooooooo

[MrZombie]

This is great news! Hopefully we finally get Hanyuu, but since so little info has been released, we have no way of knowing what chapters it'll cover.

But really, what's up with the complaints about the voice actors? I thought the fit fine. Yeah, the animation wasn't that great, but I can live with that.

Hopefully major parts of the story won't be left out this time.

[Akuryou]

I personally thought Keiichi's seyuu was pretty decent and fitting. But Rena's and Shmion's were spetacular.

Back to point, heck yes!
This increadible piece of information is only comparable to Nanoha StrikerS, if not better. I hope it's a remake, since I've already spoilt myself with Minagoroshi-hen and Matsuribayashi-hen. But either are fine, as long as we get a good animation budget.

[Shiroth]

Whatever this plans to be, if its done by Kyoani - we know that they'll stick to the games original soundtracks. Yay for Dai lovelovelove~

[Keiichi no Hibi]

I personally thought Keiichi's seyuu was pretty decent and fitting. But Rena's and Shmion's were spetacular.

Amen on all counts. And, I might be the only one, but I personally liked the anime's music. That might have to do with the fact I've never heard any of the game music, but ah well.

Any continuation in ANY FORM will make me a very happy man as long as it's not really bad.

[chrno_the_sinner]

Well, I'm hoping that Minagoroshi-hen and Matsuribayashi-hen will be animated at least (26 episodes perhaps?). Thankfully, Minagoroshi comes with its own recap of the series thus far, so the first episode will likely deal with that. Of course, I hope the soon to be released epilouge will be animated as well, and maybe even the PS2 arcs.

[Keiichi no Hibi]

Well if we disclude the manga chapters and stick to the game ones (which I have yet to learn the names of e.e) there are the two fom the original eight that didn't get animated in the first run, and the three new ones in the PS2 release. SO, that's five chapters for this run as opposed to the first run's six, IF it goes for 26 episodes like the first one did, IF it happens at all.

Though I'd prefer 14 episodes or how many ever for the two originals that were left out, this seems a little possible too, I think. Or heck, 26 for the three PS2 ones and maybe onemanga one as a side story or something. With what information we have about it now and the remaining chapters, I guess the combinations are kinda endless, huh?

[Sorrow-K]

I personally thought Keiichi's seyuu was pretty decent and fitting. But Rena's and Shmion's were spetacular.You know, looking back, that's probably why a lot of people (myself included) are critical of K1 and Satoko's seiyuu: they weren't bad, they were just outshone. I mean, it's hard to hold your own when you're surrounded by Nakahara Mai, Tamura Yukari and Yukino Satsuki giving (what I thought was) one of her best performances, if not her best, of her fairly distinguished career.

If there's any flaws in the seiyuu cast, it's minor, and certainly not in need of any overhaul. If it comes down a choice between tweaking the seiyuu cast or making more important changes, such as music or even animation, I'd hope they'd go with the latter before even considering the former.

Edit: March 2007 is apparently the date. That's good timing, IMO. While it's still fresh in people's minds.

[lana3007]

You know, looking back, that's probably why a lot of people (myself included) are critical of K1 and Satoko's seiyuu: they weren't bad, they were just outshone. I mean, it's hard to hold your own when you're surrounded by Nakahara Mai, Tamura Yukari and Yukino Satsuki giving (what I thought was) one of her best performances, if not her best, of her fairly distinguished career.


Yeah, that's very true. Shion/Mion and Rena really took the gold as far as voice acting goes in Higurashi. Keiichi's voice isn't bad at all, it's just that whenever he screams or cries it's like his voice hits a certain decible that just makes me ears hurt.

[Archer]

The site has been updated:

http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/

[Sushi-Y]

The site has been updated:

http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/
Now it's a second season...

The fact that it's announced at the official site as a second season means it will most likely be handled by the same team, it also means that this will almost definitely be an adaptation of Minagoroshi and Matsuribayashi-hen.

...At least we already have all the TIPs and pieces done. :heh:

[Sheba]

Meh, KyoAni had its hands pretty full for the next year, right?

I wouldn't mind Mad House, IG Productions or Bones or even JC Staff doing it. As long as it is not Gainax (HAY LETZ TURN IT INTO SOMETHING OBSCURE WITH OBSCURE REFERENCES!) or Gonzo (HI BUDGET DROP AFTER THE THIRD EPISODE!).

[chrno_the_sinner]

Having DEEN animate more isn't exactly a bad thing. I'm sure they've learned their lesson through all the backlash they received about the "emo facials" and the cuts to the plot. Hopefully they'll get their act together. The fact that a second season was announced means that the first had to do relatively well right?

I just really hope this doesn't hinder the game translation project, because I've already bought the game and I'm probably two years away from being able to play it sans patch.

[Skyfall]

I'm fine with it as long as it is not CLAMP :heh: Oh, and the Rena pic on the site main page in waitress outfit = uuber kawaii :love:

[eggplant]

According to what's written on the Animate website (http://www.animate.tv/nf/detail.php?id=0000001060):

『ひぐらしのなく頃に』アニメ第２期が制作決定
2006年夏、アニメファンの話題をさらったTVアニメーション『ひぐらしのなく頃に』のセカンドシーズン が始動することが明らかになった。
セカンドシーズンは、TVアニメ版『ひぐらし』なりの「解答編」的な内容になるとの事で、原作版とはまた違 った展開が用意されている可能性がある。なお、メディアは未定。

The production for a second series of Higurashi no Naku Koro ni has been decided.

The second season for the TV animation Higurashi no Naku Koro ni has been announced.
The second season will most likely be an "answer chapter" to the Higurashi TV anime series, in which a plot development different from the original story is possible.
The media format (TV anime, OVA, etc) is unknown at this time.

Since Animate's subisidiary company, Frontier Works, was involved in the production of the first series, announcing the second series (season) on their website at this stage signifies the production staff is the same.

[Sheba]

The second season will most likely be an "answer chapter" to the Higurashi TV anime series, in which a plot development different from the original story is possible.


Please, guys, keep Hanyuu ;(

[theacefrehley]

The second season will most likely be an "answer chapter" to the Higurashi TV anime series, in which a plot development different from the original story is possible.
the media format (TV anime, OVA, etc) is unknown at this time.

DEEN again...
To me they were not that bad since the animation wasn't what I cared the most on this series...
I'd like to hear the original music, but that soundtrack is not the end of the world
I can bear it
And the differences original x anime I think the forum here could supply us hehheh

But don't make them distort the original story....please...

this way we would have 3 endings
game
game/PS2
anime

And who knows, maybe even the manga with its own...

[BakaOnna]

This is very good news, but I seriously hope they won't change the original story. Well... we'll just have to wait and see.

[Rasuberi]

au au au...


I was never hoping for a second season, nor expecting one, but this is good news that kept me going through what was otherwise a horrible day! (I read this before I left for school...)

Although I have little love for DEEN, and it appears although they are keeping the rights since info is up on the same page they were using, I trust them more than another studio taking it on out of nowhere. Except for KyoAni, but for that to have been even possible we'd have to wait till 2008-2009 I'd imagine. :heh: But I'd be afraid of how a studio like Madhouse, JC Staff, etc. would alter the story. Unless DEEN does that anyways...

But anyways! I hope they have a bigger budget, otherwise they shouldn't be doing another series right? Thankfully I should have read all the Higurashi Sound Novel chapters by the time this comes out, so it will be a bit more pleasing as I will understand what was left out.:) Edit: What WILL be left out. <3

[Hagges01]

this is the best new of the week

I just hope for an excelent serie again
oh my this is sooo good:D

[chrno_the_sinner]

Please, guys, keep Hanyuu ;(

Hanyuu is too integral to the plot to keep out. Otherwise, there'd be a mess of questions on our hands.

Plus, fans would boycott the series.

[kj1980]

I see alot of you guys talking about Hanyu. Have you guys all read the posts that we put up? If so, I'm really glad to see that our efforts did not go to waste!! Seeing you guys being able to get a sort of half-way experience as the gamers via those TIPS and Pieces makes me happy.

[Shiosai]

http://oyashirosama.com/web/special/ban/600oped.gif
this says it for me

[Thisguy]

http://oyashirosama.com/web/special/ban/600oped.gif
this says it for me
So is the worst news of week for me.
DEEN. DEEN. That says all.
If I hear 今千秋's gonna directing it again, it'll be the end of me watching it even before it's on-air.

Well, since one of most important theme of Higurashi is Trust and Forgiveness, I think I should follow that rule myself.
『ひぐらしのなく頃に』アニメ第２期が制作決定
2006年夏、アニメファンの話題をさらったTVアニメーション『ひぐらしのなく頃に』のセカンドシー ズン が始動することが明らかになった。
セカンドシーズンは、TVアニメ版『ひぐらし』なりの「解答編」的な内容になるとの事で、原作 版とはまた違 った展開が用意されている可能性がある。なお、メディアは未定。Now it looks slightly interesting, isn't it?
PS2 version prepared different "final chapter" and now Anime may have another "final", just like how things could have gone different in 52th piece.

[Anacone]

Very nice, unique story like this shouldn't be left in half way. Looking forward to it :) I'll watch it before I start to look information about dropped details. I haven't read all Tips and info about those yet. So I believe that I can enjoy it fully without worrying and comparing anime and game.

[Guardian Enzo]

Hmmm - I'm surpised to hear all the bashing of Keichi's seiyuu - I thought he was pretty decent...

[FatPianoBoy]

Hmmm - I'm surpised to hear all the bashing of Keichi's seiyuu - I thought he was pretty decent...

I thought he was more than decent, actually. Like was stated before, I think he just got outdone by the others :(


Original story arc for anime? I'd really like to see Minagoroshi and Matsuribayashi, though. Maybe they'll do all three? :D

No, probably not... :sad:

[Jinsoo]

O .O Probably the best news I've recieved all week. I do hope it'll be better in quality. Kyoani getting it would be pretty unbelievable, but I would totally just leak if they did :o But if it goes to the original animation team...eh~ I really do hope they just do a better job.

I want my Hanyuu~

[firelycan]

oh yes, tis very good XD
http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/926/0001higurashiseason2kv8.th.jpg (http://img169.imageshack.us/my.php?image=0001higurashiseason2kv8.jpg)

[David Johnston]

I knew it! I just knew it! If Kanon and Negima got remakes, there would be no way in hell that Higurashi wouldn't get at least a continuation. Remake would probably be best, it will be so nice to see the first series with decent character design.

I doubt we will get Kyoto Animation though, that might be a bit too much to ask for. But hey if that does happen what are the bets that Tomakazu Sugita (SHnY's Kyon) will be the new voice for Keiichi?

Well I'd rather a continuation that gets us to the actual end than a remake that peters out halfway through. And I'm no sure how well it would do if they just reran the same events with better animation and a few different lines.

[Kaioshin Sama]

If KyoAni takes it then we can rejoice.

Problem is how many episodes would it take to create a great Higurashi.

Considering the arcs that we know:
For remake, we have got 2 branches. Visual Novel (8 arcs) and PS2 (9 arcs?). 26 episodes=impossible. It would be just the same as DEEN.
Animating just Minagoroshi and Matsuribayashi, I think 12-14 episodes would not be enough but I don't know whether 24-26 episodes would be too long.
Or KyoAni (I wish) might use the Fumoffu way and did Higurashi Daybreak :heh:

My wishes:
Please no weird face contortions.
Please use music from the visual novels.
Please do the whole Meakashi Epilogue with Confession as the BGM.

Now, who would you want as Hanyuu's seiyuu? I'm dying to hear "Auauau~" in the anime.

If Kyoto Animation takes it proves to me for certain that all they can do is take other peoples work. They're officially the BASF of anime as far as I'm concerned. They don't make a lot of the stuff you buy, they make a lot of the stuff you buy better (well more pretty in this case). I'll never understand why everyone adores that company so much since if you took away all their source material they'd be out on the street do to having no original stories whatsover. They lack creativity on so many levels I just cannot call them a great company, though I still don't hate them like I do some others since they respect their source material (maybe because they don't have the creative staff to do it differently, then again maybe not, who knows) and do a good job at bringing things to life. Though Deen's not much better at creativity the point still stands. They are only as good as the source material made available them and they have a talent for making pretty series, that's really it. But hey if thats all it takes for other people then they must be great for them, me, I'll stick with Bones (Gorgeous and creative) and Sunrise (The core genus of Bones and a great and legendary company in its own right).

However if it is them and they do the full deal this time including Minagoroshi and Matsuribayashi, no complaints, it'll be pretty and it'll be done and a series like Higurashi needs to be don't right or it won't make sense in the end. The plot threads are too interwoven for any to be at all different from what the visual novel intended. Oh and Souichiro Hoshi needs to stop hissing whenever he gets a little emotional.

[Rasuberi]

I wouldn't say KyoAni lacks creativity. They input a lot of little things into their series in which you can tell it's their own. And I'm not talking about their distinctive (and amazing) animation... Not to mention, I simply admire people who take something and make it better.

But it's not very likely that Higurashi will be animated by them at all. Unless we get a remake 2008+, which I certainly wouldn't mind. But for now let's just wait for any more official information for whatever Higurashi 2007 will be.

[theacefrehley]

My opinion is, if you are going to make a version of something from other media (manga, game...), you have to be faithful, creativity here is not much welcomed to me. The chances of ruining it are high. Leave it for original work. So, in terms of adaptation, Kyoani deserves credits. They do not inovate that much (that's good) and make it pretty. That's enough

I think you are referring to the fact that Kyoani just do adaptations and not original stuff...

But we are talking about higurashi here. The creative work is done, no need for more.

Anyway, don't know why so much fuss, it won't be Kyoani that will do it... :D :D

[Deathkillz]

http://oyashirosama.com/web/special/ban/600oped.gif
this says it for me
whow...now this is great! :D
im guessing that it will probably be the answer arcs rather than a remake of the whole series...
more mystery whoooo ~ and i also hope that hanyu will show up ~ i want to see her moeness!

[FatPianoBoy]

My opinion is, if you are going to make a version of something from other media (manga, game...), you have to be faithful, creativity here is not much welcomed to me. The chances of ruining it are high. Leave it for original work.

See, I'm just the opposite. If I've already seen/read/played the original, I don't really need to see the exact same thing in a different format. It's pointless, really. There should be some creative liberties taken to keep it fresh for people who have already been through whatever it was based on. Granted, if it turns into a total rewrite (Love Hina and the first Negima), it's usually a bad thing. But when there's a good mix of original and additional material (H2G2 movie, Haruhi anime), FPB likes.

[theacefrehley]

See, I'm just the opposite. If I've already seen/read/played the original, I don't really need to see the exact same thing in a different format. It's pointless, really. There should be some creative liberties taken to keep it fresh for people who have already been through whatever it was based on. Granted, if it turns into a total rewrite (Love Hina and the first Negima), it's usually a bad thing. But when there's a good mix of original and additional material (H2G2 movie, Haruhi anime), FPB likes.

Of course I liked SuzuHaru
But in a general way in what they did there wasn't so much of innovation.
They followed the novel pretty closely and just picked some cues the novels left opened for obvious reasons (the music) to put something "new" (in fact they were only filling the deficiences of the media, since paper cannot contain music and an episode where Haruhi plays in a festival or a movie without music would be strange hehehe). And the original episode was so... bleh that it doesn't count hehehe


When I talk about creativity not being welcomed, I mean on the plot that is already stablished.
I don't know if you watched Chobits, but to me that was a terrible adaptation. They wasted time on silly stuff (original stuff) and rushed the real important parts, distorting the original plot.

About Higurashi;
They already have many hours of contents to work with. To me, there's no reason to change an arc like the ones that are already done. But if it is a totally separated arc, like the PS2 port, it is fine for me :D :D

[FatPianoBoy]

Of course I liked SuzuHaru
...
And the original episode was so... bleh that it doesn't count hehehe


See, I loved the original episode. I thought it was a great "break" from the all the fast-paced ZOMG! stuff and it portrayed the evolution of the characters' relationships in ways that the novels (as far as 'Snow Mountain Syndrome' anyway) did not.


When I talk about creativity not being welcomed, I mean on the plot that is already stablished.
I don't know if you watched Chobits, but to me that was a terrible adaptation. They wasted time on silly stuff (original stuff) and rushed the real important parts, distorting the original plot.


I did see Chobits, actually. I read most of the manga, too. My only real complaint with the anime adaptation was the ending and not enough Zima and Dita. The epic quest for pantsu had me rolling, and I don't usually laugh at that kind of stuff.


About Higurashi;
They already have many hours of contents to work with. To me, there's no reason to change an arc like the ones that are already done. But if it is a totally separated arc, like the PS2 port, it is fine for me :D :D

Which is also how I feel, in this case. I don't think there's a whole lot of room open for creative license with Higurashi, as it's very dependant on details.

[Ayu-ayu]

Well, it's dissapointing it's DEEN again (HiMusashi no Gundou Ni, here we come!) , but at least we'll get some closure.

My second biggest beef with DEEN after screwing up the animation so much was that they left it unfinished (and third would be for having Kenji Kawai, who *can* occassionally do a good soundtrack--he's certainly done ENOUGH of them at least @_@---do such a generic set of compositions for this series) What really gets me is that the first arc was actually pretty good in terms of animation and directing, yet they never returned to that benchmark of quality again.

Still, I really am annoyed they are still doing it, given how apathetic they seemed on the production for most of the original series. They really don't deserve the license anymore, I feel. But yeah, I'll still watch every episode, I'm sure. >_<; Auauau...

I'm glad to see some folks defending Keiichi, I thought he was fine. I'm surprised to see Satoko bagged on though, I thought it was one of Kanai Mika's best dramatic performances I've seen from her (and she's been in the industry a lonnnnng time now, heh). She usually plays more goofy characters though...and I often get her voice confused with Koorogi Satomi's on some roles, lol.

--I should qualify those first remarks by noting that I think Higurashi is perhaps the deepest story I've seen attempted as a TV anime adaptation. It's unfortunate the adaptation itself is inadequate, but I can't begrudge the fact it at least exposed me to this amazing work. :) And of course the voice acting way outshone the visuals....

[Kaioshin Sama]

Well, it's dissapointing it's DEEN again (HiMusashi no Gundou Ni, here we come!) , but at least we'll get some closure.

My second biggest beef with DEEN after screwing up the animation so much was that they left it unfinished (and third would be for having Kenji Kawai, who *can* occassionally do a good soundtrack--he's certainly done ENOUGH of them at least @_@---do such a generic set of compositions for this series) What really gets me is that the first arc was actually pretty good in terms of animation and directing, yet they never returned to that benchmark of quality again.

Still, I really am annoyed they are still doing it, given how apathetic they seemed on the production for most of the original series. They really don't deserve the license anymore, I feel. But yeah, I'll still watch every episode, I'm sure. >_<; Auauau...

I'm glad to see some folks defending Keiichi, I thought he was fine. I'm surprised to see Satoko bagged on though, I thought it was one of Kanai Mika's best dramatic performances I've seen from her (and she's been in the industry a lonnnnng time now, heh). She usually plays more goofy characters though...and I often get her voice confused with Koorogi Satomi's on some roles, lol.

--I should qualify those first remarks by noting that I think Higurashi is perhaps the deepest story I've seen attempted as a TV anime adaptation. It's unfortunate the adaptation itself is inadequate, but I can't begrudge the fact it at least exposed me to this amazing work. :) And of course the voice acting way outshone the visuals....

Koorogoi Satomi is May, WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Ahem, but on the animation do you mean you would prefer DEEN used the games deliberately chibiish style animation or that they did a better job with the fluidity of it? I know the character designs are wildly different from the game and look more proportioned too.

[Ayu-ayu]

Koorogoi Satomi is May, WOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO!

Ahem, but on the animation do you mean you would prefer DEEN used the games deliberately chibiish style animation or that they did a better job with the fluidity of it? I know the character designs are wildly different from the game and look more proportioned too.

Actually, in terms of design, I thought overall it was fine, and liked the character designs in general. I wouldn't expect the original cartoony style of the sound novels to translate well outside the original context, and I'm rather curious to see what the PS2 version turns out like.

But IMHO the animation itself took a huge downturn for the most part over most of the series after the Onikakushi arc (with a few notable exceptions, including, bizarrely, the water pistol showdown...which they seemed all too enthusiastic to animate well, while the final confrontation on the rooftop looked outsourced to some third-rate studio). Particularly, compare how Rena's Oyashiro-mode in the initial arc compares to any similar "scary" face in the other arcs. The ladder-shaking scene really was where it first started to get annoying for me...rather than really make Shion look scary, they used an awkward animation cycle that didn't match what she was saying and wasn't particularly creepy. In general, they switched from the subtlety of the first act to wildly distorted "emo-faces" that looked more just off-model than particularly threatening or appropriate, and to top it off the general production quality was really low, and a lot of the drawings looked rather weak as a result.

I suspect that the reason some parts look much better is becuase more of the sakuga was done in-house for those parts, in other words, someone in the studio cared enough about getting those scenes right that they took more responsibility over getting it done. The stuff that looks more rough or off-model is where they let more of the work go out-of-house, and the fact that they did this on so many important scenes is why I consider it a reflection of a possibly apathetic attitude at the studio ("Oh, a water fight! This is more fun to work on than this repetitive creepy stuff")...although that's probably also because they stretched themselves and their 3rd party houses thin already working simulatenously on other productions such as Simoun.

Perhaps their enthusiasm at the studio was also dampened when they realised they weren't going to be able to tell the whole story, and they thought they were stuck with a lemon as a result. Meanwhile, Simoun was their own baby, so it got more love.

[Kaioshin Sama]

Actually, in terms of design, I thought overall it was fine, and liked the character designs in general. I wouldn't expect the original cartoony style of the sound novels to translate well outside the original context, and I'm rather curious to see what the PS2 version turns out like.

But IMHO the animation itself took a huge downturn for the most part over most of the series after the Onikakushi arc (with a few notable exceptions, including, bizarrely, the water pistol showdown...which they seemed all too enthusiastic to animate well, while the final confrontation on the rooftop looked outsourced to some third-rate studio). Particularly, compare how Rena's Oyashiro-mode in the initial arc compares to any similar "scary" face in the other arcs. The ladder-shaking scene really was where it first started to get annoying for me...rather than really make Shion look scary, they used an awkward animation cycle that didn't match what she was saying and wasn't particularly creepy. In general, they switched from the subtlety of the first act to wildly distorted "emo-faces" that looked more just off-model than particularly threatening or appropriate, and to top it off the general production quality was really low, and a lot of the drawings looked rather weak as a result.

I suspect that the reason some parts look much better is becuase more of the sakuga was done in-house for those parts, in other words, someone in the studio cared enough about getting those scenes right that they took more responsibility over getting it done. The stuff that looks more rough or off-model is where they let more of the work go out-of-house, and the fact that they did this on so many important scenes is why I consider it a reflection of a possibly apathetic attitude at the studio ("Oh, a water fight! This is more fun to work on than this repetitive creepy stuff")...although that's probably also because they stretched themselves and their 3rd party houses thin already working simulatenously on other productions such as Simoun.

Perhaps their enthusiasm at the studio was also dampened when they realised they weren't going to be able to tell the whole story, and they thought they were stuck with a lemon as a result. Meanwhile, Simoun was their own baby, so it got more love.

Yeah I kind of wondered what was going on with that ladder scene. I actually had to rewind it to see if I saw what I thought I saw with the weird fidgeting animation and Satsuki Yukino's voice not matching up at all with the lip flap. Still don't know exactly what that was all about, but if it gets worse than that I'm kind of scared frankly.

[aliensporebomb]

Fantastic news - the animated season one is a bit incomplete
and leaves anyone who had never played the game probably
just as confused as you might imagine. "Huh?"

Perfect - a conclusion would be nice, I don't imagine there will
be a "remake" ala Kanon or Negima but you never know.

Still, the title hints strongly at a conclusion.

[sagematt]

If Kyoto Animation takes it proves to me for certain that all they can do is take other peoples work. They're officially the BASF of anime as far as I'm concerned. They don't make a lot of the stuff you buy, they make a lot of the stuff you buy better (well more pretty in this case)(...)

Uhhh, it seems someone posted your comment on 4chan: http://bin.4chan.org/a/res/1567651.html

[panzerfan]

Well, adoption is actually no easy feat...
and I rather define great as to excel in what you do, not so much in how much you do...

[Thisguy]

From Oricon Style News (http://www.oricon.co.jp/anime/news/40219/)今回も、アニメーション制作は第1期と同じくスタジオディーン。
監督などメインスタッフも第1期を踏襲。TranslatedStudio DEEN will be making it just like 1st series.
Main staffs, like director, will remain same, too.... It's done. ＼(＾o＾)／

[Shuin4]

So, this will be Minagoroshi? Good news, but how many episodes?

[Shiroth]

Not to sure if its just me, though the fact that Studio DEEN/the same team who worked on the first series are doing the second to be the best way around it. I spent yesterday rewatching the series (yes, 26 episodes in one go, best way to spend a new year), and i have a new style of love for this series - and that comes from the great job Studio DEEN did.

[dspr8_rugged]

I actually just finished the first series two weeks ago, and well, it is rather comforting to hear that a second one is coming out this year. :)

Though I have to say that animation was rather bad, despite almost every aspect of the show being great. I just wish that Studio DEEN would at least improve on it - even a bit.

[karumofin]

guys im sorry, but im really not that much a higurashi freak as you, ordering the games and such.
i just wat to see the END, how it goes on, i dont care about no remakes (even though i know some of the stuff thats been mutilated and its painfull)

[willem113]

Cant wait till this is fansubed.
The first season was one of the best animes i had seen in 2006.

[The Bloodlust Kid]

Now my question is, will it be as scary as Onikakushi? The first two arcs I would say is what put shitty Hollywood horrors to shame. But the rest felt like they were going down towards the path of a mystery than horror (well, maybe except Meakashi >_<)

[Akabane_Kun]

Oh yeah 2nd serie now thats a good new,lets all hope for DEEN to work harder in the drawing>_>,its probably an conclusion cuz the anime is going to be aired sow shortly if it was a remake then it would be in setember or close to that not in the begining of 2007(at least thats what i hope for).

[Klashikari]

Now my question is, will it be as scary as Onikakushi? The first two arcs I would say is what put shitty Hollywood horrors to shame. But the rest felt like they were going down towards the path of a mystery than horror (well, maybe except Meakashi >_<)

the last 2 arcs are most likely revelations, so much more actions and feelings based. (the creeps were most likely based on the theories, and the mystery, so you won't probably encounter such mood in the 2 last arcs)

Oh yeah 2nd serie now thats a good new,lets all hope for DEEN to work harder in the drawing>_> and put the original musics plz;)
They wouldn't have to work a lot for the chara design (not that it is bad, but it doesn't require a lot of works, when you compare it with F/SN, from the same staff), so it shouldn't be a problem (as long as they avoid some emo-distorsion faces/animations...)

but for the time being, it is most likely the content which is leaving a lot of questions... will they be able to cover "CORRECTLY" minagoroshi and matsuribayashi ? (or a original arc?) They will also have to change what they have let as an end of tsumihoroboshi...

[dspr8_rugged]

Now my question is, will it be as scary as Onikakushi? The first two arcs I would say is what put shitty Hollywood horrors to shame. But the rest felt like they were going down towards the path of a mystery than horror (well, maybe except Meakashi >_<)
Yeah, same observations, eh? :)

They wouldn't have to work a lot for the chara design (not that it is bad, but it doesn't require a lot of works, when you compare it with F/SN, from the same staff), so it shouldn't be a problem (as long as they avoid some emo-distorsion faces/animations...)
I so agree. At least they should lessen that or remove it at all. I mean, obviously, its purpose is to at least put a little scare to the viewers, but honestly, it doesn't - it turned me away instead. (read: Shion)

Well, Rena's facial distortions were still cute, IMO. :D

[Alohomora]

Higurashi's site is now updated! :)

http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/

[Klashikari]

Higurashi's site is now updated! :)

http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/

kuh... it's simply a banner contest (they want to renew the usual anime banner), which ends the 9th march ~~

[rogueblade]

Great news!
TBH, i didn't think DEEN did a bad job first time round. Granted, i've never played the games, but watching the Anime on it's own, i was able to follow it with fair ease most of the time. However, I would have said it needed another couple of episodes to include things that were in the TIPS (Much thanks to Sushi-Y, Kanji, and Lost Blue for all their hard work in those, and translating the last arc!), in order to enhance the story.
However, what the series really lacked was explanation. There seemed to be little explanation of what was going on in terms of the arcs/Rika's signicance in the proceedings, and what had to occur in order for the different events of each arc to happen. It seemed to me like all of that was kind of pushed into the ending moments of the last episode. Also, the arc with that guy from Tokyo meeting little Rika (Akasaka?), seemed incredibally random, without the TIPS. It probably would have been better for that to have been in the second season at the beggining, rather in the first season.
The animation wasn't that bad. Sure, it's not up to Kyoani's standard, but that's not saying it's a munter, either. The only qualm i have is the face-putty thing that goes on occasionally, and the odd distorted perspective shots of faces.

All in all, what i would like DEEN to do for this season is:

Higher quality animation
More explanation on events
A final conclusion.

[IchiKyo]

All in all, what i would like DEEN to do for this season is:

Higher quality animation
More explanation on events
A final conclusion.

I just thinking that they will work on the 7th and 8th Ark... And explain about 2nd and 3rd Ark... 9th is an PS2 Game Exclusivity?

[Klashikari]

I just thinking that they will work on the 7th and 8th Ark... And explain about 2nd and 3rd Ark... 9th is an PS2 Game Exclusivity?

heh?
the 2nd arc, watanagashi-hen was explained by the 5th, meakashi-hen
The third arc is like a "standalone" : it explains the link between rika's death and the hinamizawa great disaster.
Should they explain this, they would need to uncover the whole truth, which would be the 7th arc, Minagoroshi-hen.

as for the PS2 version, there isn't really a "9th" arc, they add 1 question arc, Taraimawashi-hen, and its answer counterpart, Tsukiotoshi-hen, and a third arc, Miotsukushi-hen which take the place of matsuribayashi-hen (since they didn't have the time to create it for the PS2, and Ryukishi07 decided to create a "true end" with this version)

Currently, we have no information about which arcs they will follow. they will most likely animate Minagoroshi-hen, but they could be able to create their own end, so an original arc as well. (that would be a third end)

[ayukanon45]

ok, whoever said less horror plot is a dumba55. come on, the games had a horror focused plot, well also suspense, and tahts what made it stand out. now, personally, if it doesnt include the same characters i aint watching. you cant have a new higjurashi, you have to use the same people!

[Arimfe]

While it'll be somewhere in between impossible and impossible for it to reach the heights of the games, I still think it'll be good. To be fair, I thought the first series was pretty good by itself after rewatching it a few times and I have high hopes the second one will be entertaining as well.
*crosses fingers for more ebil Rena USODA*

[reptar300]

So after the 26 episodes that have just passed there making another set of episodes to show the other arcs right?(sorry if this has been asked before but my jap sucks and im a bit confused)

[Chibi_Faerie]

Hey, I was just wondering... As I can't translate the pages, but has there been any mention of new opening and ending themes yet?? As much as I love the old ones I am curious if there will be some new ones.

[Myname]

My wishes:
Complete remake. 52 episodes for everything.
Please, replace that stupid crappy seiyuu for Keiichi with someone with a more 'fitting' voice.
Less focus on horror and more on characters and story.
No Studio DEEN.

This is getting sickening. Don't hate on a seiyuu just cause his other characters he voiced happened to be popular.

[Keiichi no Hibi]

I personally thought Kei's seiyuu was great o.o

And I don't know, Chibi Faerie, but if there ARE new ones they will be hard pressed to be as good as the first ones imo D:

[Chibi_Faerie]

I still loop the opening theme ^_^' It's like I'm waiting to see if they can top it... The ending theme I like, it's beautiful and sort of haunting, I just wish it had been done so you could hear what was being said better. That's the only aspect that sometimes pokes at the back of my mind. To be honest if they just did a tasteful remix the original songs I think that would be interesting too... ;)

Keiichi's Seiyuu was awesome, I liked all of them more or less.. I can't remember any actually annoying me at any point, Takano gives me the creeps but thats what she is supposed to do right...? :heh:

[Gains]

Hmm, on Keiichi's seiyuu I believe he's done good but sometimes how he says things seemed too weird, like her conversation with Shion in Watanagashi (after the ladder scene), the yelling part isn't quite logical even for anime and in that situation (before the magnificent laugh). Well, just like someone posted before, Rena and Mion/Shion's seiyuu is far superior in Higurashi and it might made other seiyuus feel somewhat "weaker".

Chibi_Faerie: How dare you say Takano is creepy :heh: her voice is what made me fall in love with her, especially the conversation in the car.

[Chibi_Faerie]

Gains: SHE IS O.o If I met her on the road on a dark and stormy night I think I'd run like heck in the opposite direction... Doesn't mean you can't love her though. Just remember her friend Tomitake Jirou dies frequently *nod nod*

To me the yelling part may be how the script was written and what was called for, so we can't really blame Keiichi's seiyuu on some things I think. At least that's how I see it.

[dspr8_rugged]

Souichiro Hoshi, isn't that bad, IMO. Just don't make the him cry. I mean, after hearing Kira Yamato crying in SEED... God that was the most horrible crying I've ever heard.

I do agree that the others stand out better than him. Satsuki Yukino and Mai Nakahara owns. :)

Simply put it, I have no problems with the VA selection. Just make the animation better...

[Richard 23]

What, exactly, was wrong about Keiichi's seiyuu? I thought everyone did great. The animators should've done as great a job as the actors!

A great series overall, that deserves a second! What? A second series coming soon? OMG!

[MarthX]

The Wiki says April and I know several people from this board monitor the wiki. Anyone got a link backing up that information? Every site I've seen simply says "2007"

[Aya Reiko]

The Wiki says April and I know several people from this board monitor the wiki. Anyone got a link backing up that information? Every site I've seen simply says "2007"

I've deleted the "April" from the article in question. Anyone wanna take bets before someone switches it back?

Honestly, I've also never seen any official info as to when the second season starts. And I've thoroughly scanned oyashirosama.com for it.

[Rias]

I've deleted the "April" from the article in question. Anyone wanna take bets before someone switches it back?

Honestly, I've also never seen any official info as to when the second season starts. And I've thoroughly scanned oyashirosama.com for it.

I havn't seen any solid info regarding when second season would start. Only thing that can somewhat be useful is that some people on 2ch predicted it would start in July, by considering Studio DEEN's schedule.

[monir]

Sites such as ANN and AniDB are reporting that the series will continue sometime in February. How accurate their source of information is another matter.

[Yuecchi]

Sites such as ANN and AniDB are reporting that the series will continue sometime in February. How accurate their source of information is another matter.

They're probably confusing the release date of the PS2 game with the date the series starts. But if I'm proven wrong, then I don't mind, since it means it's coming sooner.

[dspr8_rugged]

It's really hard when all of us are in the dark with regards to the real airdate of Season 2. :confused:

[Richard 23]

Dark? It is Higurashi, after all! ;-)

[Mirrinus]

Just a few days before multiple midterms, and I have unfortunately gotten myself hooked on Higurashi's storyline (I don't care much for the horror, really, but I love a good mystery). I've been ravenously reading the TIPS and stuff here today...

Anyway, I have no real complaints about the seiyuus, as I thought pretty much everyone was fitting. I'm no music buff, even for series that I'm familiar with, so the music escaped my notice. The animation style, sure, could use work, but that's not why I'm enjoying the series. I don't really mind too much if Studio DEEN does the second season. I just hope they do the 7th and 8th arc at last, and if that's all they're doing for a second season, then there should be no excuse for making them longer than just 4-5 episodes so that we can actually get all that juicy plot explanation in. I'm the opposite of FatPianoBoy: after reading a story, I get MORE excited to see it in a different format. It's the same deal with Suzumiya Haruhi's second season. ^_^

I think a good chunk of the complaints most people had of the first season was the lack of closure. You have to admit, almost nothing was answered to any significant satisfaction. Hopefully, the second season will provide enough of a conclusion to raise this anime up past its former flaws.

[dspr8_rugged]

Haha... that's a nice sig you have there. :P

[dKiWi]

Haha... that's a nice sig you have there. :P

I second that. Can u make more? One for Oba-chan will REALLY rock :D

[Mirrinus]

Too bad, already changed it :P I'll probably be changing sigs every week or two.

[BakaOnna]

Does anyone know if there's a release date yet? April? Summer? Fall?

[Icehawk]

If there was im sure it would be posted here within minutes if not hours of its unveiling. I wish it was coming in April, just like when the first season started but I doubt it, probably summer is more likely.

[Bloodseeker]

I still loop the opening theme ^_^' It's like I'm waiting to see if they can top it... The ending theme I like, it's beautiful and sort of haunting, I just wish it had been done so you could hear what was being said better. That's the only aspect that sometimes pokes at the back of my mind. To be honest if they just did a tasteful remix the original songs I think that would be interesting too... ;)

I'd be really surprised if they topped the first OP and ED. The ED is probably my favorite pure Engrish OP/ED (not that it has much competition... its probably in my top 10 favorite EDs overall), and the OP is in my top 3 overall. (next to GitS 2nd Gig and 4th FMA OP)

[BakaOnna]

I can read June 22nd on the official site. Can someone translate what it reads before that? Not the DVD 9 release date, since I understood that.
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/

[Li Jianliang]

June 22nd is for the Fan Disk release.

[Bloodseeker]

Too bad that it doesn't look like this is coming out in April. Between this and StrikerS premiering and Code Geass season one wrapping up, April was looking to be one hell of a month for anime. (it still looking like its going to be great, but that would have been like one of the best months for anime ever)

[Klashikari]

Official anime site has been updated recently :
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/news/kai.htm

It is confirmed : Higurashi no Naku Koro Kai will be released in July 2007.
According the Seiyuu list, Hori Yui will be on the boat, we can then safely assume Hanyuu will be in the party.

The director will be the same : Kon Chiaki
as for the Music, Kawai Kenji will stay the composer (let's hope he will not fail on the climatic events this time...)

The character designer will be the same : Sakai Kyuta
It is maybe a premature opinion, but the rough sheets appear to be more detailed than previously. until there are some trailer/teasers, we can hope for a character design/animation improvement.

however, there is a little surprise in this announce : a mysterious young woman appears at the very bottom of the character rough sheets, crudely labeled as "? ? ? ?"

it would be interesting if KJ, sushi, freakman and any other original game players/PS2 would voice their opinion about her identity.
i can't see anyone fitting that character... PS2 game character? original character for the anime?

[theacefrehley]

Official anime site has been updated recently :
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/news/kai.htm

It is confirmed : Higurashi no Naku Koro Kai will be released in July 2007.
According the Seiyuu list, Hori Yui will be on the boat, we can then safely assume Hanyuu will be in the party.

The director will be the same : Kon Chiaki
as for the Music, Kawai Kenji will stay the composer (let's hope he will not fail on the climatic events this time...)

The character designer will be the same : Sakai Kyuta
It is maybe a premature opinion, but the rough sheets appear to be more detailed than previously. until there are some trailer/teasers, we can hope for a character design/animation improvement.

however, there is a little surprise in this announce : a mysterious young woman appears at the very bottom of the character rough sheets, crudely labeled as "? ? ? ?"

it would be interesting if KJ, sushi, freakman and any other original game players/PS2 would voice their opinion about her identity.
i can't see anyone fitting that character... PS2 game character? original character for the anime?

What about this dude:

http://forums.animesuki.com/showpost.php?p=742250&postcount=40

The mysterious woman, that is, may come from this piece

[Klashikari]

i also thought about that woman, but this isn't really matching the situation.
despite her big contribution for [XXXXXX]'s plan/determination, she appears only at one part of the past.
i'm not really too fond of showing a "minor" character in such place :x (especially that she is shown, and not [XXXXXX] )

[Thisguy]

At first I thought about her too, but I had to ditch that idea because her expressions in rough sketch are far from what you might imagine from her.
...Am I the only one that see a similarity between that woman and Rena? her hairstyle in particular?

[theacefrehley]

At first I thought about her too, but I had to ditch that idea because her expressions in rough sketch are far from what you might imagine from her.
...Am I the only one that see a similarity between that woman and Rena? her hairstyle in particular?

What about Renas's Mother? Or Adult Rena?

I still think shes is the woman of that Piece, because, for example, Chie-sensei is always depicted as part of the secondary cast (she is in the staff list, she is even in the manual of the PS2 game :heh: :heh: ), but her influence in the story is faaaar less relevant than Akasaka or Ooishi, that are also in the secondary cast. So, why not that woman, that plays a big role in the whole mess?

[FatPianoBoy]

I seriously doubt it's either of those, as that woman can't be a day over thirty even after considering inherent Asian immortality. Also, the plot kinda prevents that from being a grown-up Rena... unless the groundhog finally gets everything worked out this time :heh:

I suppose she could be the woman from that piece, but there's really no information for or against that. The only data in the pictures is her saying "Shiranai" ("I don't know"), so we've got nothing to go on.

Everyone probably already knows, but the 'Kai' in the title means 'answer, solution, etc.'

[BakaOnna]

Yes! This is what I've been wanting for since they annouced a second season. Is it stated how many episodes there'll be?

[Klashikari]

no, and neither the arcs they will animate so... we will probably have to wait around paril/june for further information

[Shiroth]

July seems a good enough time for this to happen (yay for a Higurashi Summer). Very good news --- looking forward to hearing more: number of episodes/OP+ED.

Oh, and i'm very happy to hear that Kenji Kawai is back doing the music. I and many others have mentioned how the original games score works better, though that doesn't mean i don't enjoy Kenji's awesome score that i believe fits perfectly.

[Sushi-Y]

Rena-mama~ Can they make it more obvious than that? :heh:
But wait... Eh?

And the cast ????: Horie Yui... why even bother hiding? auauau~

Not sure why they bothered to do another character design sketch, although it seems like they fixed some of the proportions (the "chopstick legs", for example). Keiichi actually looks kinda cool.
Comparison:
Season 1 designs: http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/anime/index.htm (scroll down for the design sketches)
Season 2 designs: http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/news/kai.htm

But what's this thing about an anime original story?

Shion: 殺すwww

[Shiroth]

Not sure why they bothered to do another character design sketch, although it seems like they fixed some of the proportions (the "chopstick legs", for example). Keiichi actually looks kinda cool.
Heh, they'd probably get to many on them asking about changes. Though i'm glad nothing mjaor has taken place --- and yes, Keiichi is looking rather cool.

Thanks for the comparison links. & wow, the noises on the official site once you high-light a link still come out at you out of nowhere. :3

[Ichy]

No Sketch for... (you know who)? :D

[FatPianoBoy]

No Sketch for... (you know who)? :D

Guess not, but "it" was in a picture promoting the second season (the one with Mion and Rena doing a radio show), so I think "it" will probably be there ;)

[Bloodseeker]

But what's this thing about an anime original story?

There's going to be a story original to the anime? I've heard people say that 26 episodes is too long for the remaining two arcs... maybe they're going to use a new arc to fill up that extra space so that they don't have to draw the other two arcs out too much?

[Klashikari]

if they keep the same way how they animate and write the plot for the first season, 26 episodes is clearly too long.
but minagoroshi and matsuribayashi have enough material for 26 ep. (actually, the first season would be hell better with like 36 episodes instead of 26)

as for sushi-y comment, we don't know, this is a mere speculation, due the lack of identity of the last sketch character.

[Avisch]

The only new character design we got is for........


http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/news/img/kai-chara07.jpg

Takano? Flashback.

[blitz1/2]

The only new character design we got is for........


http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/news/img/kai-chara07.jpg

Takano? Flashback.



Rena coming back from future to terminate Keiichi?

[yakuri-moe]

Rena coming back from future to terminate Keiichi?
Hasta la vista, Casey! (???)

[Garet Linegod]

Rena-mama~ Can they make it more obvious than that? :heh:
But wait... Eh?

And the cast ????: Horie Yui... why even bother hiding? auauau~

Not sure why they bothered to do another character design sketch, although it seems like they fixed some of the proportions (the "chopstick legs", for example). Keiichi actually looks kinda cool.
Comparison:
Season 1 designs: http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/anime/index.htm (scroll down for the design sketches)
Season 2 designs: http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/news/kai.htm

But what's this thing about an anime original story?

Shion: 殺すwww

I also agree that the rough character design looks to be of Rena-mama (mainly from her hairstyle), as I've never seen a character like her in the original game nor in "Matsuri".

The anime original story sounds quite logical, as I imagine "Minagoroshi" and "Matsuribayashi" togther should take at least 14+ episodes, which is quite an odd number considering Japan's anime schedule system. So up comes the idea of creating anime original arcs (hence the appearance of "Rena-mama" possibly?). I seriously hope they don't stuff it up.... :heh:

[sasuke13]

Rena coming back from future to terminate Keiichi?

That really does look like an older Rena. It might have to do with something about the different diminsion things !_!:eyespin: Can't wait to see it and Hannyu!

[Rias]

I sure hope they replace Matsuribayashi with Miotsukishi instead...and include Saigoroshi at the end

[harukamae]

I didn't play the PS2 port, so I don't know if Miotsukushi-hen includes the Kakera-musubi, but I hope they find some way to incorporate some of that info in the anime.

[Klashikari]

Heh? kakera-musubi? you mean the album with You - Visionem im spiegel, hymn, when they cry, samsara, etc? oO

[harukamae]

Sorry, I might have said that wrong, I thought the "Putting the Pieces Together" thing from Matsuribayashi-hen is called Kakera-Musubi in Japanese.

[Klashikari]

meh, i can't tell if it means the same as the Little game of matsuribayashi (come to the think of it, Kakera means "piece" IIRC).

there is a high chance that they will put some flashbacks to explain some things : anyhow, they MUST do this, or they will screw BIG TIME the reasons of the culprit.

[blitz1/2]

Well at least with the new character designs, my friend won't say that the characters are off-proportioned. (He complains that arms and legs were too skinny in the first season.

[Eleutheria]

Too bad the ???? is wearing modern clothes, or I'd guess

Furude Ouka


Regarding the "new story", I don't think that's too much of a problem since the Higurashi world is ever ongoing. I'd sure like to see the ones the Ryukishi mentioned in the 52nd piece, though, i.e. the one where Takano falls head over heels for Tomitake, and the one where K1 macks every single girl >.>

[Regel]

My thoughts about ????:

Young Takano

[Shiroth]

I see that ANN are listing the second season to have the same OP & ED from the first --- is there any official announcement about this?

& god i hope so. Talk about the best OP & ED ever.

[MrZombie]

Well, I'll agree with you about the opening, I thought the ending was a little weak. The animation was very good, but I found the "English" signing to be rather poor, even though the lyrics were well done.

[bloodmoon0011]

I LOVE this anime so far, but I'm a bit confused. Can anyone tell me what's going on? What I mean is, after the first 5 for so episodes, it seems like the story has reset. I thought it was just a flashback, but then events that had already happened were done a different way, like when Keiichi finds out something important on the second or third episode, then finds it out again on the 6th in a different way. Can someone tell me what's happened? I think these are just different endings, like the endings to the movie Clue or something. No spoilers, PLEASE.

[Aoie_Emesai]

It's rather hard to tell you why those things are happening if we can't give you spoilers.

Try the Older Series Discussion for Higurashi, lots and lots of info there for you.

http://forums.animesuki.com/forumdisplay.php?f=55

[FatPianoBoy]

I LOVE this anime so far, but I'm a bit confused. Can anyone tell me what's going on? What I mean is, after the first 5 for so episodes, it seems like the story has reset. I thought it was just a flashback, but then events that had already happened were done a different way, like when Keiichi finds out something important on the second or third episode, then finds it out again on the 6th in a different way. Can someone tell me what's happened? I think these are just different endings, like the endings to the movie Clue or something. No spoilers, PLEASE.

No spoiler version:
Each chapter is a different scenario that portrays one possible outcome given the underlying circumstances. The key factors are always the same, so the trick is looking for things that happen differently and then trying to figure out why they happened that way versus the previous scenarios.

[eggplant]

According to this site (http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/04/23/681,1177333769,70718,0,0.html), Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai, which airs from July, will be 24 episodes long, including the following arcs:
Minagoroshi-hen
Matsuribayashi-hen
Yakusamashi-hen
Yakusamashi-hen will be an anime original arc, which will air prior to Minagoroshi-hen, according to Ryuukishi 07.

[blitz1/2]

According to this site (http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/04/23/681,1177333769,70718,0,0.html), Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai, which airs from July, will be 24 episodes long, including the following arcs:
Minagoroshi-hen
Matsuribayashi-hen
Yakusamashi-hen
Yakusamashi-hen will be an anime original arc, which will air prior to Minagoroshi-hen, according to Ryuukishi 07.

an epilogue arc?

[MrZombie]

Doesn't sound like it since he said it'll air before the game's seventh chapter. ;)

[Klashikari]

*lights some big candles* make it as a 26 ep season, makes it as a 26 ep season, makes it as a 26 ep season, ...
W00t, 24 episodes ! (2 less than predicted but XD). they wouldn't screw minagoroshi and matsuribayashi ! (8 episodes for each arc will probably solve the big fat flaws of the previous season)

aside of this good news, there is another one : like i though with the previous rough sheets, the character design have a major improvement.
the hair, and especially the eyes are pretty much more detailed. (on the other hand, Rika lost a bit of her moe part in the process XD)

sounds like their budget is finally decent XD

Edit : As i could understand with a loosy Babelfish translation of Ryukishi07's comment, it appears that Yakusamashi will be important for more insights with the concept of "worlds".
and it appears it will help linking both season, since the first end was really open, and would hardly fits with minagoroshi prologue.
Eggplant, or anyone who is able to read moon language can confirm this? :heh:

[FatPianoBoy]

24 episodes for three arcs? All of the original game arcs plus an anime original?

Eggplant, you just made my day :D

[harukamae]

I'm surprised Miotsukushi-hen isn't on that list, since it's supposed to be the "true ending" according to Wikipedia, but still, it's lookin' real good for season two! ^^

[Rias]

Sure gives me the feeling that Yakusamashi-hen = Kakeramusubi part of Matsuribayashi-hen...probably works better that way than the way Matsuribayashi-hen is orignally presented

[FatPianoBoy]

Random thought:
I guess Yakusamashi would be translated as 'Disaster Awakening'?

[theacefrehley]

Sure gives me the feeling that Yakusamashi-hen = Kakeramusubi part of Matsuribayashi-hen...probably works better that way than the way Matsuribayashi-hen is orignally presented

If it's something like this, it's good, but these pieces are kind of random...
I wonder how they'll manage to make a real episode with the pieces withouth making it look like they are giving out everything in a silver plate... (even though that's how it is in the sound novel...)

[Shiroth]

moetron just posted the same news eggplant gave:

Linky (http://www.moetron.com/2007/04/26/higurashi-no-naku-koro-ni-kai-3-arcs-revealed/)

[Mirrinus]

This is certainly good news. It feels good to know that the final acrs will be animated. I hope the new original arc ties up the many loose ends of the first series.

[TigerII]

So will this explain how each arc is connected. At first I thought it was just a retelling of the story. When I found out they are all connected and the time keeps getting reset, it blew my mind. Hopefully this season will explain it all.

[Sushi-Y]

The announcement of the new scenario is a surprise, but it makes sense. After all, it would be quite sudden to start a new season with Minagoroshi-hen, not to mention it will probably leave everyone except those who are truly familiar with the story clueless.

On the other hand, as a game vet, I sure don't want to see them cutting things out from the original arcs again just because of the new arc though.

Random thought:
I guess Yakusamashi would be translated as 'Disaster Awakening'?
More like "misfortune awakening".

[Supergrunch]

This is good news... maybe this first arc will act as a substitute for the Minagoroshi-hen prologue.

[Level E]

I wonder which characters will be in Yakusamashi... I'm guessing the main story for Yakusamashi will be focused on Rena though, since that new character looks too much like Rei-mama version.

I'm also guessing that maybe it'll start kinda like the beginning of Minagoroshi's prologue then flashing back to the other stories, as Rika-chama trying to recall what happened? That'll be a good way to reintroduce the other characters (besides the main cast) who play a major part in the Minagoroshi and Matsuribayashi Hen (mostly the adults). Otherwise having that bastard and his b*tch come back and Mr. Super Hero saving the day later won't have too much of an impact. I wonder if DEEN will keep the awesome lines during that fight? There's so many of them. ^o^ what did he say? ...this is nothing / So what? Care to tell me your pay? www. The way Ryukishi 07 executed those lines (while corny) was so freaking awesome. I'll be terribly disappointed if there's no Matrix end and Fumanai de!!! intro. Or the stand off scene with the two powers at the end of the intro of Matsuribayashi. And I hope they put in the Akuma no Kyakuhon in too... it's a good way to tie back to Tsumihoroboshi Hen. It would be nice to have Frederica Bernkastel added into the cast too, since "she" does have a part in Minagoroshi and the Pieces Puzzle. やっぱ未成年が飲むところ、ヤヴァイか。

*sigh* even with all the improvements I see from the links (new staff, better animation) just the horrid of knowing DEEN's credibility of keeping/executing key scenes has me... :(

I'm happy and have mix feeling at the same time with this news.

[Sushi-Y]

I wonder which characters will be in Yakusamashi... I'm guessing the main story for Yakusamashi will be focused on Rena though, since that new character looks too much like Rei-mama version.
Same here. I'm thinking some sort of flashback story.

Otherwise having that bastard and his b*tch come back and Mr. Super Hero saving the day later won't have too much of an impact.
Keiichi and his otaku army was just brilliant :heh:
...They'll probably cut that out though. RIP Kameda-kun. :(

I wonder if DEEN will keep the awesome lines during that fight? There's so many of them. ^o^ what did he say? ...this is nothing / So what? Care to tell me your pay? www. The way Ryukishi 07 executed those lines (while corny) was so freaking awesome. I'll be terribly disappointed if there's no Matrix end and Fumanai de!!! intro. Or the stand off scene with the two powers at the end of the intro of Matsuribayashi.
Matsuribayashi-hen was just a splurge of in-your-face action scenes. It was exhilarating just to read through them as long as you don't try to think about everything logically.
I totally went "kya--o(>ヮ<)o" when Shion and Kasai busted out their AK-47s. :heh:

But what shined the most for me was probably the awesomeness of the supporting cast. Akasaka was a given, but even Oishi, Tommy, and Iri got me squealing over their coolness. ^^;

*sigh* even with all the improvements I see from the links (new staff, better animation) just the horrid of knowing DEEN's credibility of keeping/executing key scenes has me... :(
The ending of Minagoroshi-hen and Takanon's recall of her past in Matsuribayashi are my biggest concerns.

The two scenarios have more memorable piano tracks than any other previous chapters too. I'll miss dai-san's "Live" (Minagoroshi-hen ending), "being" (Matsuribayashi-hen opening) and "ふたり。ひとり。" (Takano's flashback theme) for sure. :(

[dspr8_rugged]

Yeah, I've heard the news in another forum. I'm pretty much excited on how things will turn out for Season 2.

[Level E]

Keiichi and his otaku army was just brilliant :heh:
...They'll probably cut that out though. RIP Kameda-kun. :(

...

But what shined the most for me was probably the awesomeness of the supporting cast. Akasaka was a given, but even Oishi, Tommy, and Iri got me squealing over their coolness. ^^;

Too awesome for sure. The way Ryu-chan played with the fonts was shear genesis. Haha, if DEEN is able to pull off MAID in HEAVEN with the "This isn't just a pen" scene, I'll be m(_ _)m

At the very least they gotta keep the shotgun with Kasai's line when it all ends. And Mion's superness. カッチョィ～ 完全に少年漫画派だね、竜ちゃん :heh:

I wonder if they keep the graveyard scene with Oishi and Akane? There was so much closure to that scene.... probably not tho. =/


The ending of Minagoroshi-hen and Takanon's recall of her past in Tsumihoroboshi are my biggest concerns.

I'm really concerned about those scenes too... but the Minagoroshi-hen ending as is I'm not sure if they can even air it. It's has to be modified imo. いくら、ホラーでも小学生があんな事見せれないよね。　その前の仲間の処刑もちょっと．．．ね？テレビに刺 激過ぎると思うな．．． I know I was about to go destroy the world after that ending. :heh:

The two scenarios have more memorable piano tracks than any other previous chapters too. I'll miss dai-san's "Live" (Minagoroshi-hen ending), "being" (Matsuribayashi-hen opening) and "ふたり。ひとり。" (Takano's flashback theme) for sure. :(

I soon as I heard it's DEEN again, and notice the composer is still Kawai, I've given up hope for Dai's piano. It's so sad too... Kenji Kawai is a good composer but still. I don't care if the music in the anime turns out to be awesome. It's just not the same. T_T Along with the ones you mention: Gray, conviction, 一重, 虚... ok, I got to stop. Listening to that last one is too heart gripping.

sigh, I guess that means no you-destructive for Akasaka either.
Higurashi isn't Higurashi w/o Dai. No そら means no そらのむこう
I've got so attached to that song too...

[Sushi-Y]

I'm really concerned about those scenes too... but the Minagoroshi-hen ending as is I'm not sure if they can even air it.
They'll probably just do a lame-ified version of it with all the critical imagery omitted or shown indirectly (silhuettes, for example). Minagoroshi-hen does feature some pretty graphically intense scenes near the end, they'll probably just do something similar to what they did with Shion and Satoko at the end of Meakashi-hen.

[Eleutheria]

If they don't have some version of Sora no Mukou in Matsuri-bayashi hen I'll cry bloody murder.

[Shuin4]

I'm thinking the new arc may be like a prequel arc to show what happened to the characters before 1983

You know, like episode 1 would be about how Rena was almost raped by those guys and how she collapsed in her bathroom, etc. Episode 2 would be the Sonozakis and the explanation of how they were switched with the tattoo, episode 3 would be how Satoko was the one who pushed her parents off the overlook. It would basically tie up loose ends they missed, and other things they can't possibly add in Matsuribayashi.

[theacefrehley]

I'm thinking the new arc may be like a prequel arc to show what happened to the characters before 1983

You know, like episode 1 would be about how Rena was almost raped by those guys and how she collapsed in her bathroom, etc. Episode 2 would be the Sonozakis and the explanation of how they were switched with the tattoo, episode 3 would be how Satoko was the one who pushed her parents off the overlook. It would basically tie up loose ends they missed, and other things they can't possibly add in Matsuribayashi.

I agree
I think they'll just use some Matsuribayashi pieces that do not reveal too much (along with some info not included in the pieces) and then the demon's scipt to show that Tsumihoroboshi didn't end well

[chrno_the_sinner]

I'm thinking the new arc may be like a prequel arc to show what happened to the characters before 1983

You know, like episode 1 would be about how Rena was almost raped by those guys and how she collapsed in her bathroom, etc. Episode 2 would be the Sonozakis and the explanation of how they were switched with the tattoo, episode 3 would be how Satoko was the one who pushed her parents off the overlook. It would basically tie up loose ends they missed, and other things they can't possibly add in Matsuribayashi.

Wow. I can't believe I didn't realize they'd probably do that. I'd be less upset about the first series if that's what they do. I really hope that's the case.

[cyth]

Famitsu (http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/05/16/681,1179284154,71746,0,0.html?ref=rss) got some info about the opening and ending theme for the second series, I'm not completely sure if this has been posted yet:

Opening theme:
Naraku no Hana (奈落の花)
by Shimamiya Eiko (produced by I've Sound)

Ending theme:
Taishou-a (対象a)
by anNina (Annabel & bermei.inazawa) (produced by Voltage of Imagination)

Singles will go on sale on 2007/08/22 for 1260 en (incl. tax) each.

[theacefrehley]

Famitsu (http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/05/16/681,1179284154,71746,0,0.html?ref=rss) got some info about the opening and ending theme for the second series, I'm not completely sure if this has been posted yet:

Opening theme:
Naraku no Hana (奈落の花)
by Shimamiya Eiko (produced by I've Sound)

Ending theme:
Taishou-a (対象a)
by anNina (Annabel & bermei.inazawa) (produced by Voltage of Imagination)

Singles will go on sale on 2007/08/22 for 1260 en (incl. tax) each.
Great news
If it's I've, it's good

[harukamae]

Isn't I've Key's music company? Oh man...the only way this could get better is if "You" found its way into the BGM...

[frad113]

I've is not Key's company, they just did music for them. Here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I%27ve).

[Choo!]

Well, If themes have been assigned, it is definetly no hoax!

Im glad to hear that the Opening will be good, I loved the Older opening and the PS2 Openings also. I hope the second series comes out soon! I loved the first one.

Also, By request, I will order the singles when they come out and torrent them.

If anyone gets more info, please inform us!

[Avisch]

I agree
I think they'll just use some Matsuribayashi pieces that do not reveal too much (along with some info not included in the pieces) and then the demon's scipt to show that didn't end well

Yeah the pre-1983 story's would be really good. Especially is they opened the new series with Rena (as the first one put emphasis on Keichi).

For some reason I would like to see Akasaka in the moment were it reveals that Tsumihoroboshi has a bad end. Like a scene with him remembering Rika and all.

Yakusamashi-hen does hint at being the whole "explanation of why ____ happens" arc anyway.

http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/04/23/h-681_70718_h06.jpg.jpg

I don't think Shion wore this in the first season. It's likely her school uniform before she comes to Hinamizawa.
EDIT: Actually she does wear it in episode 16 but it's long sleeved.


Here's a larger image list of the season two character designs. (http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/04/23/681,1177333769,70718,0,0.html) Compared to the first season's (http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/anime/index.htm) the 2nd season's appear to have more focus on the eyes, as apparent as they have shots of some emotion sequences.

[theacefrehley]

Yeah the pre-1983 story's would be really good. Especially is they opened the new series with Rena (as the first one put emphasis on Keichi).

For some reason I would like to see Akasaka in the moment were it reveals that Tsumihoroboshi has a bad end. Like a scene with him remembering Rika and all.

Yakusamashi-hen does hint at being the whole "explanation of why ____ happens" arc anyway.

http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/04/23/h-681_70718_h06.jpg.jpg

I don't think Shion wore this in the first season. It's likely her school uniform before she comes to Hinamizawa.
EDIT: Actually she does wear it in episode 16 but it's long sleeved.


Here's a larger image list of the season two character designs. (http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/04/23/681,1177333769,70718,0,0.html) Compared to the first season's (http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/anime/index.htm) the 2nd season's appear to have more focus on the eyes, as apparent as they have shots of some emotion sequences.

The only problem is that in the anime, the characters don't look so good as in these drawings, that are really good... (the first season drawings are not bad, but in the anime...)

[theacefrehley]

Images from the second season

http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/05/22/681,1179831451,72090,0,0.html



:eek: :eek: :eek:

The best one:
http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/05/22/h-681_72090_h19.jpg.jpg

:heh::heh::heh:

http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/05/22/h-681_72090_h21.jpg.jpg
this one is for sure the "demon's script"

[Klashikari]

The quality of the chara design is definitavely better, good grief.
what i see :
-scrapped paper. probably related to the lockdown of hinamizawa after the disaster.

-Rika as Frederika. i assume this is the memories of Akasaka, and he probably told rika's story to Ooishi and co.

-calendar... might be a minagoroshi crisis (the 2 weeks)

-Rena is damn cute :love: (despite the previous chara design, she was already, but here... whewh *_* )

-Keiichi is really less creepy like this.

-Shion is finally going to school too ! nee-nee moments !

-2 screenshots about a woman. see my thoughts below

-i don't have a clue about who this guy is, but i don't think it is Okonogi

-Yay, keiichi cunning "must win" expression ! much more effective than season 1 (his brabery with Tomita and Okamura)

-Mion seems to have many "healthy' batsu game

-Nee-nee is on rampage. poor satoko :heh:

-Nipaah~ crits you for 9999. you dies from excessive exposition to absolute moe and kawaii-ness.

-...and it appears Nipaah~ was just a decoy XD

-Satoko fight-o !

-I thought it was chibi rena, but no, considering her seifuku. well... i think rena is even more a solid challenger against Rika's absolute moeness :love:

-Cie... i mean Chie-sensei heh? minagoroshi i assume?

-Huhu... Mion and Shion without any fancy outfit? sounds like they made a pretty fine plan in that batsu game. Rena doesn't seem to be present... so, this is in the original arc?

-Irie's Fetish ! hooray !

-as theacefrehley said, ooishi and akasaka in the demon script

-really old scrap book. Rena decided to reveal why she became mad to the policemen?

-Takano, but i don't see any hint, except maybe as a "flashback" about the screbooks

-THIS is the most mysterious screencap. who the hell is that girl?
it can't be satoko considering her body.
It should be rena, but i don't see in which event anyway. (probably new material here)

-Mion and Shion once again. no real hint here, but they aren't really cheerful.

-Watanagashi standards?

-once again : not hint about what's going on with satoko

-considering rika's expression, i think she is chatting with hanyuu

-the 2 lasts pic are definitely rena in tsumihoroboshi.

the comedy seem to be explosive here (more batsu game, w00t), without the really lame animation . (complete change with 2 screens, and the true introduction of irie's fetish :heh:)

also, there are hints about the new arc we can find here :
It appears that Yakusamashi-hen will be more a bridge between minagoroshi/matsuribayashi and the end of tsumihoroboshi : as we can see, There are few screencaps which involve "insane rena" with band aids on her neck.

the chance that "??? character" is Rena (instead of her mother) is way much more believable, considering the hair color, hair style, her expression while standing in a ravaged building (they might use the demon script as another complete arc, involving Rena as one of the few survivors. but i'm wondering why she would survive, considering that she does only in watanagashi/meakashi)


my only worry here is they might compress TOO MUCH information (while they weren't giving enough in season 1).


but that aside... i really can't wait ^__^

[harukamae]

-THIS is the most mysterious screencap. who the hell is that girl?
it can't be satoko considering her body.
It should be rena, but i don't see in which event anyway. (probably new material here)



Yeah what's up with this pic (the one with the folded legs and the needle and whatnot.) It's a lil creepy...

[theacefrehley]

who's the girl?
Isn't it obvious it is rika?
I saw a fanart that is just like this screenshot some (long) time ago

well, whatever...

[Klashikari]

Frankly, i don't think so.
if it isn't satoko, it can't be Rika.
pay attention to the forms and lengths of the legs, it can't be our loli duo (advanced puberty as i can see, so a young woman or a teenager, that's how i see them), but either Rena, S/Mion (which i really doubt), or another girl.

[kuchiki]

The screencaps look awesome. I can't wait :)

I hope a good fansub group picks the series up, else I'll have to wait a long while before I get to enjoy it.

[Sushi-Y]

Aside from the obvious "ooh that's a pretty nice boost in sakuga quality", I'm simply excited to see Kameda-kun and "K the magician of words" in there. :heh:

[Sheba]

Is it just me or the character design is trying to get closer to the PS2 game? Not like it is a bad thing, I like it.

Now here to hope it will be like this when it'll air...

[MarthX]

The screencaps look awesome. I can't wait :)

I hope a good fansub group picks the series up, else I'll have to wait a long while before I get to enjoy it.

I'm pretty sure Wind is subbing it.

[DizzyRoro]

I ringed up enough courage to join the forums after the excitement after seeing all these Higurashi kai pictures. >__<

http://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u110/Ryuuguu-Rena/h-681_72090_h02.jpg

Someone earlier talked about how this picture looks like it took place at Rena's trash heap (in the Pictures thread)... and if you look even closer, you can see that green border. They usually use those borders in scenes that are flashbacks/premonitions (Bat beating... Self-stabbing... Flashback to Keiichi's past...) It might be the 'missing' scene from Tsumihoroboshi-hen in which Rika visits Rena. And if it indeed is a flashback, then it would have to be in the future. Perhaps Yakusamashi-hen takes place in the future withhttp://i166.photobucket.com/albums/u110/Ryuuguu-Rena/h-681_72090_h08.jpg
'Future Rena' as the main character? Is it even possible? Did Rena survive in Tsumihoroboshi-hen (according to the end roll credits... I checked the TIPS but they didn't have it. Did Tsumihoroboshi-hen even have one? Or was it replaced by the Demon's Script?) , or perhaps this is from a different (yet seemingly similar) scenario...


Accursed theory-making! I love Higurashi.

[New/Old]

It might be the 'missing' scene from Tsumihoroboshi-hen in which Rika visits Rena. And if it indeed is a flashback, then it would have to be in the future. Perhaps Yakusamashi-hen takes place in the future with as the main character? Is it even possible? Did Rena survive in Tsumihoroboshi-hen (according to the end roll credits... I checked the TIPS but they didn't have it. Did Tsumihoroboshi-hen even have one? Or was it replaced by the Demon's Script?) , or perhaps this is from a different (yet seemingly similar) scenario...


I think that would be reasonable to believe. We already see glimpses of an older Akasaka and Oishi (though perhaps that could merely mean new details in the character design) and we even have a glimpse of Rena in her delusional state in Tsumihoroboshi-hen. I think it would reasonable to believe it could be a arc placed in the future.

[Klashikari]

that's what i was thinking.
but like i already stated : considering how Tsumihoroboshi ended (and how Minagoroshi stated, it would be quite hard for them to make sure that Rena survived.
(the ending scrolls had several paragraphs, but sadly, i can't understand it. i think it summaries what happened in tsumihoroboshi, though i can't say if it blatantly says the disaster killed everyone in hinamizawa)

[Level E]

Awesome. Kameda-kun comes into the story. w00t
There's Irie's reality marble. So hopefully Keiichi will have his ^^
The otaku army raise!

Yakusamashi Hen...
It seems like this new anime chapter will be a mix of Tatarigoroshi w/ Tsumihoroboshi with a slight twist... (I don't know why, but it kinda reminds me a part with "Mion" description of what happen in Yoigoshi) - I guess because both seem to be set in the future?

As for Rena surviving... I don't think it's too far of a stretch. In the actual Tsumihoroboshi... She died. But "what if" Kumamoto (or whatever the guy's name who called in the SWAT sniper team division #6 [YamaInu] - I think it was...) arrested her before Keiichi saved the day?

"What if" b/c of that she was detained in a more high profile place b/c of the severity of the crime she committed? Or she was taken to a mental hospital outside of the Hinamizawa area?

The thing is, in Higurashi it's easy to have very similar arcs with different outcomes. Watanagashi / Meakashi were like that. Yoigoshi Hen is based off a world where Rena successfully blew up the school. So, it's entirely possible to have an ending to the Tsumihoroboshi Hen where Rena survives.

I'm very excited for this anime now that I see it's seems more true to the Sound Novels. I now have hope that maybe Dai's wonderful piano might make it to the anime. *crosses fingers*

[cyth]

So the PV which was shown on RONDO ROBE 2007 is now available (http://www.famitsu.com/fwtv/?572915) on Famitsu as well (You'll need Windows Media Player).

[FatPianoBoy]

Gah... too much kanji moving too fast... majority of translation failed.

The music switch scared the crap out of me :heh:. That was probably the desired effect, though.
I guess they'll be using the first series' soundtrack along with a few new tracks. Good to hear (no pun intended :p).

Observations:
The anime original chapter appears to be set one year after the gas disaster, unless I misread/misunderstood.
Who's the little girl around the 59-second mark? レナの妹?
Starts airing in July :D
Keiichi = owned :heh:

[Klashikari]

geh... i dunno if it is me, but the PV is really choppy. (running on 239k/s)


The music switch scared the crap out of me :heh:. That was probably the desired effect, though.
agree. it was also really moving. (i think it would have suited pretty well the scene when keiichi fell from the bridge in tatarigoroshi, or most scenes of mad shion in meaka/watana)
I guess they'll be using the first series' soundtrack along with a few new tracks. Good to hear (no pun intended :p).some people won't be really happy that there won't be anything from this list ^^"
-feel
-嘘
-Birth and Death (FFS... the difference was huge for Hell and Heaven Fight aftermath BGM... i hope they will at least change it if there is a flash back of it.)
-ふたり。 ひとり。
-Assault Operation ( since they didn't even use 見えない何か に怯える夜 -2nd Edition-, i fear the most with the big brawl for Akasaka piece and the rest...)

i probably forgot other tracks (like thank and you). ~~

Observations:
The anime original chapter appears to be set one year after the gas disaster, unless I misread/misunderstood.i think this should be way later, or there is a continuous error, due the lockout duration in Himatsubushi and Demon Script.
also, Rena looks really too old for only 1 year later.
Who's the little girl around the 59-second mark? レナの妹?This is Satoko
Starts airing in July :D
Keiichi = owned :heh:well, it is too bad satoko didn't try to make k1 says "curry is XXX" :heh:

[grunty]

The PV collection is great. Hopefully the art and animation don't degrade in random moments like in the first season.

Since I've not played the games and only listened to the game OSTs seperately, I honestly don't know why everybody's complaining about Kawai's music - I can't imagine tracks like Matsuri get replaced by any of the game tracks I heard...

[Klashikari]

the problem with Kenji Kawaii is the lack of intensity in tracks. (well that's just me)
also, while the "creepy" music aren't that bad (for example, giwaku is pretty good), casual and childish tracks aren't really that moving. (Digital Network, from Question Arc is pretty much effective, Air Pizz works wonder too. OST jugyouchuu doesn't really compete well againt the former)

the biggest loss would be dai marvelous tracks i think (most of his piano melodious tracks, such like : thanks, iru, 陰, confession, you, そらのむこう, feel, etc.)

i guess this is only a matter of tastes. that doesn't mean that kenji kawaii tracks are bad. but they don't really give the same impression than the ones used for the novels.
and before you ask : i watched the anime before getting my hands on the novels, so i'm not stuck in "first impression of the original is always stronger than the next adaptation"

as for Matsuri, i think the three first tracks of the second column in the sound feature in himatsubushi compete quite well against Matsuri. (silver_moon and the 2 below it. WAV names : 7, 8 and GIWAKU2)

[grunty]

While I am sure the daily life scenes would work great with game music, I still can't imagine any of the psychodelic scenes have different music than Kawai's contributions (and tracks used in those scenes are THE ones that get me excited in any mystery show). Unless of course the CDs I heard ('thanks/you' or 'higurashi kai OST') ignored the majority of darker music used in the games (which I've not played so I wouldn't know).

Would you be able to score some episode of Higurashi (with both comedy and 'darkness') as it is with tracks from the game? Care to present such a score tracklisting for some episode? ;)

ps. perhaps I should take this to some music discussion thread. >_>

[Klashikari]

mah... not really too offtopic i think... meh we can also swap to the music thread yeah.

the original GAME OST is unfortunately not complete. most if not all track from question arcs aren't include, since they were from free source on the net.
several answer arcs tracks are also missing, like the great "assault operations".

what i could find on youtube about this type of video you asked:

Keiichi facing insane Rena (track from question arc of course)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=d0FA5sV9z4E

Keiichi and Satoko on the Bridge
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JuD96tXFeLQ

Keiichi trying to find the "bomb", but Rena spotted him. (before the music transition, in the novel, it was "utu" when keiichi was searching, then "祝祭" when Rena popped behind him)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgW9MSQkvk4
perfect music for "we don't have mluch time, damnit!"

Hell and Heaven Fight, in its glory
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jm9NSTSH1LI
note that this scene is extremely much longer in the novel. (this is probably one of the worst adaption in the anime : not only the animation, but also the dull and boring track which last for the COMPLETE scene, including the speech before the last strike...)

[grunty]

I digged out the fansubs to listen again and well, from those videos I'd only choose the bridge sequence over the anime version. It makes you feel for Satoko and I liked this heaps more than the anime trying to force a mystery mood on you. ^^

I completely don't -get- the pseudo happy action bit of "hell and heaven" video. It's kind of like, "hey we're in the middle of a serious situation so let's use a genki GANBARE song." It completely changes the way I 'feel' that scene and I don't like it.

But maybe that's just me, since you say the "main theme" is dull and boring, while I get goosebumps everytime I listen to it. :)

[Klashikari]

I completely don't -get- the pseudo happy action bit of "hell and heaven" video. It's kind of like, "hey we're in the middle of a serious situation so let's use a genki GANBARE song." It completely changes the way I 'feel' that scene and I don't like it.

that's actually the point. the fight turned into fun time, especially if we take into account Keiichi and Rena excitement.
the track used on the anime was completely off, not because it was different from the novel, but didn't match Keiichi and Rena's actions : they were talking just like the water guns game, and it was still the same while they were talking about the prize.

in fact, the anime track just turned the scene into useless drama, while it wasn't that "fight for your life". it turned into a GAME.

this is why the track failed really in the adaptation. (and i will avoid to summary what they actually say in the novel, considering that i'm using babelfish like translation. but facts are they are pretty much having fun during this fight)
read episode 26 thread (http://forums.animesuki.com/showthread.php?t=36496), especially comments from the players. sushi-Y and lostblue pretty much summaries the big problems with the fight.

[grunty]

And Rena was just having fun with that machete? I don't know what it was in the original, but music-aside, no matter how I look at it, Rena is serious with her machete in the anime. ;)

OK, I'm slowly losing my arguments so let me put it like this: I can't tell what it was SUPPOSED to be, I say it how I see/hear it. Perhaps more hate should go towards DEEN than Kawai's score?

[Klashikari]

And Rena was just having fun with that machete? I don't know what it was in the original, but music-aside, no matter how I look at it, Rena is serious with her machete in the anime. ;)
it is true she was getting serious, but on the other way, you can actully see that her insanity is slowly vanishing. especially that she reverted her usual eyes when keiichi was talking about her prize.

the fun part was only during the big thrilling fight. prior this, she was ready to kill anyone getting in her way.
but her killing intent becames quickly game excitement. (voices, facial expressions are pretty much proof for this)

as you can see, they never state about : i kill you, or kill me. they just put that silly matter aside, and was talking about : the one who knock down the other wins, and loser will have a punishment game.
it is true that it is hard to feel this that way, but it is basically the subtle message you can get from Rena behaviour and her approval about the wager.

and finally, when Keiichi was talking about rena's prize, Rena realised that everything she was doing was wrong (she didn't say so blatantly, but she wanted happiness after all), which was implying that it will never occur if Rena kills keiichi and/or execute her plans.


OK, I'm slowly losing my arguments. I can't tell what it was SUPPOSED to be, I say it how I see/hear it. Perhaps more hate should go towards DEEN than Kawai's score.well, that's what i was thinking even before getting the novels :heh:
i was wondering why Sushi-Y was that annoyed by the track used, untl i released that hell and heaven fight turned into a big brawl, with "letal weapon but who cares?".

but just like i said, kawai tracks aren't bad, but they don't really emphasis the mood of the characters. his tracks are much like discrete BGM.

however, the second season PV sounds like he will create some tracks more dynamic (especially they will include more punishment scenes, and kameda-kun :heh:)

[grunty]

Well... I still can't really agree, I still don't see why it's such a big deal. xD Not with the way its portrayed with the dialogue and visuals.

Rena is pretty much 'insane' in my eyes throughout the whole battle even when they talk about who's going to win what. The change to the no-rhythm version of "main theme", when Rena finally snaps out of it, also makes sense to me (and makes it more bitersweet rather than "yay everything's OK now!" in that video clip). ;)

BUT OK, I wanted to know why game fans hate the anime music, and I just learnt that. Thanks to you it makes more sense to me now. Hope more of you will be pleased with Kai. :)

[Kisuke06]

Nice trailer. DEEN was very criticized because of the animation in the first season, I hope they do a better job in this one.

[Klashikari]

here is a youtube link for those (like me) who can't have a proper result with famitsu trailer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWkVDIL9juo



I see... a cup of wine ! they didn't forget this detail !
seriously... girls cuteness skyrocketed in this trailer (rena and mion smiles and cheeks...horribly moe). budget improvement FTW (and probably angry fans mob complaints after the first season :heh:)
alright... keiichi is going really really berserk with games in season 2 *_*
solid proof that the woman is Rena (the scene involving her in the trailer is blatant : she is in her burned classroom, accompagned with some men, probably detectives/policemen)
interesting short shot on several trucks and soldiers from the army, during the great disaster.
aftermath of the school accident in tsumihoroboshi? or the disaster?
more scenes involving the mysterious (half) naked girl with a syringue
troubling scene : someone opens a door,and an utterly bright and wicked red light is surging from it. I don't have a single clue about what it might be.
Keiichi is devastated, Rena, Mion and Shion are worried. then, zoom on rika and satoko. probably from Minagoroshi
After the big zoom on Satoko, at 0:59 on youtube, you see her legs around a futon, and a faint and quick transparent red cloth at the top right. hanyuu? (it might be her long skirt)
4 people under sunset. the woman on the far left wears a suit. it is the same color as the one rena (old) is wearing. and if we take into account this picture (http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/05/22/h-681_72090_h21.jpg.jpg) of Ooishi, Akasaka, and the other investigator (kuma? i don't think so), it should be the four of them
Once again, keiichi seems to have lost someone important. i guess it is related to satoko, as it is hinted before.the end of the trailer indicates the first episode will be on the 6th july, right?
shouldn't it be the 11th july instead?

[grunty]

It apparently starts on the 6th on KBS.

From official site:

＜放送局＞
・KBS京都　 7/6（金）26:30～
・サンテレビ 7/9（月）26:10～
・チバテレビ 7/9（月）26:10～
・テレ玉　　　7/9（月）25:30～
・tvk　　 　　 7/14（土）25:30～
・AT-X　 　　7/11（水）より
　　　　　 　　（水） 9:30～、20:30～
　　　　　 　　（土）14:30～、24:30～

[theacefrehley]

wow

kinda of spoilerish this video...(at least we've got to see moeness at full :heh:)

But I still think the naked-girl with a syringe is Satoko or Rika:heh: from the chapters of minagoroshi I've read

[Klashikari]

Either satoko ("Vitamins"), or Rena (silly theory though : it might be the shot Rika was trying to give to her)

but it is really hard to determine which girl it is ~~ (well... 1 month and we will have the answer XD)

[Avisch]

Rika appears to be holding the wine. It might be the scene from Minagoroshi-hen where Rika is pondering with Hanyu about the possiblity of preventing a BAD END.

There are some scenes of what looks to be the Hinamizawa disaster (scenes of armed men storming a house)

And man that scene with Keichi was funny.......:)

[Ichy]

here is a youtube link for those (like me) who can't have a proper result with famitsu trailer

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWkVDIL9juo



I see... a cup of wine ! they didn't forget this detail !
seriously... girls cuteness skyrocketed in this trailer (rena and mion smiles and cheeks...horribly moe). budget improvement FTW (and probably angry fans mob complaints after the first season :heh:)
alright... keiichi is going really really berserk with games in season 2 *_*
solid proof that the woman is Rena (the scene involving her in the trailer is blatant : she is in her burned classroom, accompagned with some men, probably detectives/policemen)
interesting short shot on several trucks and soldiers from the army, during the great disaster.
aftermath of the school accident in tsumihoroboshi? or the disaster?
more scenes involving the mysterious (half) naked girl with a syringue
troubling scene : someone opens a door,and an utterly bright and wicked red light is surging from it. I don't have a single clue about what it might be.
Keiichi is devastated, Rena, Mion and Shion are worried. then, zoom on rika and satoko. probably from Minagoroshi
After the big zoom on Satoko, at 0:59 on youtube, you see her legs around a futon, and a faint and quick transparent red cloth at the top right. hanyuu? (it might be her long skirt)
4 people under sunset. the woman on the far left wears a suit. it is the same color as the one rena (old) is wearing. and if we take into account this picture (http://www.famitsu.com/anime/news/2007/05/22/h-681_72090_h21.jpg.jpg) of Ooishi, Akasaka, and the other investigator (kuma? i don't think so), it should be the four of them
Once again, keiichi seems to have lost someone important. i guess it is related to satoko, as it is hinted before.the end of the trailer indicates the first episode will be on the 6th july, right?
shouldn't it be the 11th july instead?

This post makes Ichy happy :D

[FatPianoBoy]

This is Satoko

The with the orange hair, who looks nothing like Satoko? :heh:

[Sushi-Y]

Yakusamashi Hen...
It seems like this new anime chapter will be a mix of Tatarigoroshi w/ Tsumihoroboshi with a slight twist... (I don't know why, but it kinda reminds me a part with "Mion" description of what happen in Yoigoshi) - I guess because both seem to be set in the future?
Yakusamashi-hen will serve as a "filler" for all the contents they missed in the first season, while still maintaining originality in terms of story and contents.
In other words, it's Ryukishi07-san wiping up the mess the anime crew made in the first season.

Gah... too much kanji moving too fast... majority of translation failed.
Nothing important, just the usual keywords being thrown around.
some people won't be really happy that there won't be anything from this list ^^"
-feel
-嘘
-Birth and Death (FFS... the difference was huge for Hell and Heaven Fight aftermath BGM... i hope they will at least change it if there is a flash back of it.)
-ふたり。 ひとり。
-Assault Operation ( since they didn't even use 見えない何か に怯える夜 -2nd Edition-, i fear the most with the big brawl for Akasaka piece and the rest...)
It looks pretty clear by now they're not going to use any of the game's musics, not even arrangements (ie. Fate).
I think it's a stupid choice, but that's just me.

BUT OK, I wanted to know why game fans hate the anime music, and I just learnt that. Thanks to you it makes more sense to me now. Hope more of you will be pleased with Kai. :)
Not to say the anime's tracks are bad, and it's perfectly likely that the game vets simply like the game scores more because they associate with our most memorable scenes better, but in general, I just find it unfortunate that the game tracks didn't make it to the anime because there are so many good ones here.

The with the orange hair, who looks nothing like Satoko? :heh:
It's the sunset lighting.

[dspr8_rugged]

The Kai trailer has made my day. I see that Studio DEEN has somewhat made improvements to character art and animation.

I seriously can't wait for July anymore...

[maymay]

Higurashi second season hadnt really hit me until i saw that trailer. That seriously made my day. and July 6th thats so soon!!

[Shion's Sanity]

July 6th thats so soon!!

I'll bet Kei and friends thought that once.O_O

[Graskell]

Quote:
Originally Posted by maymay
July 6th thats so soon!!

I'll bet Kei and friends thought that once.O_O
Good point. I'm just glad our June isn't that bad, and that I don't live in Hinamizawa.

On another, infinitely more topical note: I'm really looking forward to the second season.

[Shion's Sanity]

Yes, but if we lived in Hinamizawa, then we could meet all our favorite characters.*.*

I need more Higurashi friends on IM.;-;

[FatPianoBoy]

Yes, but if we lived in Hinamizawa, then we could all be brutally totured to an agonizing demise by our favorite characters.*.*


Fixed ;)
And if the lolis don't get you,

Takano
or the gas will.

[Shion's Sanity]

Sadly, can't check the spoiler.;-; I've already happened up too many spoilers as it is, a major one even on this board because it was poorly marked.;-; My fav. character never really does anything "psycho" in the first season. Then again, said character's never really alive long enough to get the chance.;-;

[FatPianoBoy]

Sadly, can't check the spoiler.;-; I've already happened up too many spoilers as it is, a major one even on this board because it was poorly marked.;-;

Yeah, don't open that one unless you've read the sound novel/don't care. I'd suspected it, but I didn't know for sure until I opened the wrong tag one day :sad:

[Shion's Sanity]

*hugs*

Aw;-;.

Same thing happened to me. Anyone here have IM?

[MrZombie]

If at the time I knew there'd be a second season I wouldn't have read the spoilers. At the time I couldn't stand now knowing what had happened.

[Shion's Sanity]

New screenshots are up on the site for the second season! Keep refreshing the page to see them all!

And just my luck, the only one with Tomitake has his camera covering just about all of his face, and he is with "her".>_<

[Klashikari]

http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict01.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict02.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict03.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict04.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict05.jpg

New pictures :
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict06.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict07.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict08.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict09.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict10.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict11.jpg
Angel Mort Tickets... bwahahaha, finally :heh:
Satoko looks pretty much ready for an ugly trap trial
again this syringe. there isn't really a lot of clue about who is using it.
Rena seems to have discovered something... not really that great
"future" ooishi too, as i can see.*GRUNT* even though it is less than 1 month, it is becoming a bit long XD
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict12.jpg

[FatPianoBoy]

June is going to be the longest month of our lives :sad:

And theirs... :heh:

[theacefrehley]

http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict01.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict02.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict03.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict04.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict05.jpg

New pictures :
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict06.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict07.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict08.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict09.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict10.jpg
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict11.jpg
Angel Mort Tickets... bwahahaha, finally :heh:
Satoko looks pretty much ready for an ugly trap trial
again this syringe. there isn't really a lot of clue about who is using it.
Rena seems to have discovered something... not really that great
"future" ooishi too, as i can see.*GRUNT* even though it is less than 1 month, it is becoming a bit long XD
http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/kai/img/kai-pict12.jpg

In the site there's a message saying that the pictures will randomly change:

表示のたびにランダムで画像が変わります。

It might be good to check it once in a while:D:D

[Shion's Sanity]

Just one good pic of Tomitake.;-; That's all I ask.

[FireChick]

I happen to be a fan of Studio DEEN. I loved how they did Shounen Onmyouji. You shouldn't hate them. At least they're doing the best they can to make a series good and popular. Like, take Fate/Stay Night for example. Even though I don't watch Fate/Stay Night or Higurashi, I think Studio DEEN did a good job on them. I REALLY LOVE how they did Shounen Onmyouji. They're also doing Shining Tears X Wind which I like. Oh! You all should see the art difference between the first season and the upcoming second season. Notice how they're so different. Higurashi II's art is similar to that of Shounen Onmyouji while Higurashi I is...well, I don't know. Sorry if I went REALLY off-topic here. Oh! For those who want to know Hanyuu's voice, it's Yui Horie according to ANN.

[grunty]

In the site there's a message saying that the pictures will randomly change:

表示のたびにランダムで画像が変わります。

It might be good to check it once in a while:D:D

They randomly show a set of 4 pics from the 5 new sets on every reload (kai-pict06-10.jpg), I do think that's what they meant...

[Klashikari]

I happen to be a fan of Studio DEEN. I loved how they did Shounen Onmyouji. You shouldn't hate them. At least they're doing the best they can to make a series good and popular. Like, take Fate/Stay Night for example. Even though I don't watch Fate/Stay Night or Higurashi, I think Studio DEEN did a good job on them.
No offense, but your statement is utterly biased.
you didn't watch higurashi, but you think they did a good job? at least, i would understand if you actually watch it, but that...
honestly, i would hardly say they did a good job, considering the horrible amount of butchered scenes, the lack of critical scenes and details, and the infamous donwhill animation.

the series isn't horrible : it is enjoyable.
but the result is way below "great" animes. hopefully, the story itself was enough to keep the anime interesting.
if it wasn't for the scenario, Higurashi would be famous for the... well, faces.

I REALLY LOVE how they did Shounen Onmyouji. They're also doing Shining Tears X Wind which I like. Oh! You all should see the art difference between the first season and the upcoming second season.that's what we were talking about. still, it is not really that great they only put that amount of efforts for the second season.
there isn't a lot of excuses for the mistakes they have done. (i would accept the problem if it was only a problem of content and the number of episodes, but did they have to use horrible distorded facial expressions? they were more like a horrible joke, than something creepy/scary)
Notice how they're so different. Higurashi II's art is similar to that of Shounen Onmyouji while Higurashi I is...well, I don't know. we noticed, that's why you see some relief in some of the comments we (at least, me) wrote.
that pretty much proves something was really wrong.

They randomly show a set of 4 pics from the 5 new sets on every reload (kai-pict06-10.jpg), I do think that's what they meant...

correct : this comment was in fact, for the "refresh" random sequence of the different pictures.

[FireChick]

Sorry. Me is so stupid.

[Miko Miko]

Wow them pictures are really something :)

God.. i cant wait :heh:

[Roll]

In the site there's a message saying that the pictures will randomly change:

表示のたびにランダムで画像が変わります。

It might be good to check it once in a while:D:D

Thanks fo the images! :D Love them xD

[eris_sama]

I was just thinking about Higurashi yesterday! So glad the second season will soon be available.
You know, I didn't notice the decline in animation in the first season since I didn't care much for the char designsm in the first place. But I was so absorbed by the story, mystery and violence, nothing else mattered.
Yea!

[Rias]

Hopefully the 2nd season would be better than the first one...with less butchered plots, drop in animation quality and such...

[cyth]

If I understand correctly from the announcement on oyashirosama.com, DVD vol.1 already got a release date. o_0 It's scheduled to be released on 21th september, containing two episodes. A total of 12 DVDs will be released month after month, and each limited edition DVD will have a short omake animation called Ura☆Higu (tentative title; I bet you can see where this is coming from :heh:).

[Shiosai]

Oyashirosama.com (http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/) updated their website but took down those season 2 shots

nice splash image though:
http://students.washington.edu/vegita/higu2splash.png

[Ichy]

Finally... Hanyuu! :D *cries manly tears*

[theacefrehley]

Oyashirosama.com (http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/) updated their website but took down those season 2 shots

nice splash image though:
http://students.washington.edu/vegita/higu2splash.png

I see so many omochikaeri's coming:heh:

[Avisch]

Oyashirosama.com (http://www.oyashirosama.com/web/) updated their website but took down those season 2 shots

nice splash image though:
http://students.washington.edu/vegita/higu2splash.png


INSTANT WIN!!!


Finally... Hanyuu! :D *cries manly tears*

Amen to that.

[chrno_the_sinner]

OMG Hanyuu is moe. Really moe. Really, REALLY moe!

I'm even more excited now.

[MrZombie]

I can't wait either, but you know she won't appear until Minagoroshi-hen, right? Even once it starts airing we'll have to wait a bit to finally see her.

[Kisuke06]

I can't wait either, but you know she won't appear until Minagoroshi-hen, right? Even once it starts airing we'll have to wait a bit to finally see her.

Ah, so the first arc that will air will be the new one(Yakusamashi-hen)?

[Klashikari]

yes, it has been confirmed.

[Mr Fist]

I'm still confused what the new chapter Yakusamashi-hen will offer.

I have heard it'll clear up any 'plot-holes' but which holes in the anime are we talking about here? Is it from the games TIPS or something like the missing 'doll' scene from Watanagashi-hen?

Sorry, long time Higurashi anime fan, first time poster in this forum...

[MrZombie]

Well yes actually, they left out a rather huge part of Tsumihoroboshi-hen that helps give you a better picture on what's really going on and various TIPs and the like.

[Trail]

I'll bet Kei and friends thought that once.O_O

rofl! Awesome

[Miko Miko]

i cant wait, lol

Hanyuu Looks Really Great!
:D

[Ultima_Rasengan05]

theres also a new main character added to the main cast in this second season yea?

[eggplant]

Just returned from today's Frontier Works event featuring a screening of Higurashi no Naku Koro ni Kai Episode 1.


Today's guests were Ryuukishi 07 (creator of the original doujin game and supervisor of the anime series), Nakahara Mai (Rena), and the duo anNina (artist for the ending song). Inoue Kikuko (Mion/Shion's mother) was present for the CLANNAD stage, but didn't appear in the Higurashi event.

For the second season, Ryuukishi 07 personally requested the producers to add the original Yakusamashi-hen prior to the two answer arcs, as to complement the abridged/missing plotlines from the first season.

The opening song, "Naraku no Hana" by Shimamiya Eiko, is a powerful song, but lacks the eerie atmosphere present in the first season. The opening sequence focuses on Rika and Hanyuu, probably a precursor of what to come. Interesting shots of Takano and Rika are worth noting.

The ending song. "Taishou a" by the duo anNina, is a luscious ballad. Although the female vocalist Annabel is half Argentinean, she doesn't sing in English (or Spanish for the matter), unlike the first ending song (which probably doesn't qualify as English anyways). For the ending sequence, Rika and Hanyuu caught my attention once again.


Episode 1 of the Yakusamashi arc is basically comic relief. The episode centers on the zombie tag (onigokko) scene at school, which is depicted quite true to the game.

We get to see some new scenes, such as:
Satoko inoculating herself with the serum/antidote (fanservice galore).
Rika drinking wine, disguised as grape juice.
Shion transferring to the same school as the gang, upon Satoshi's request to look over Satoko.
Rika talking to Hanyuu (not depicted).
Rika's recollection of the past.

The onigokko scene was so hilarious, I had trouble controlling myself. The nature of the schoolchildren's lies to lure Keiichi out of hiding, Rena's sex appeal, Keiichi's boner, Satoko and Rika's maid cosplay, Keiichi's swan suit, etc.

Topping it all was Irie's dramatic entrance, followed by the introduction of Takano and Ouishi Tomitake. Things start to take a turn for the dramatic towards the end.

In hindsight, the Yakusamashi-hen serves as the filler arc, interwining portions of the question arcs, and subtly adding hints which will lead up to the remaining two answer arcs.

The artwork for Episode 1 was stunningly amazing, not that I had any problems with the first season by Deen. The comedy-centered episode featured extensive SD shots. I just hope the artwork can remain consistent at this level for the remainder of the series.

Upon seeing Episode 1, any reservations I held for the second season was for naught.

[Klashikari]

^ whoa... that was really a very nice summary. thanks, eggplant, really informative as always :)

now the "naked" girl identity is revealed, and sounds like DEEN will actually have a gorgeous chara design to serve.

6th july is once again awfully long to wait :heh:

[MrZombie]

Whoa, that sounds incredible. I so can't wait.

[Rias]

It's great that they are plugging in the holes that was left out in season one, but it seems kinda weird that they are mixing Minagoroshi-hen elements in it also...

But I'm glad that they put zombie-tag (from Onikakushi-hen) back in, as it's an important element of the story...and that chapter was quite fun to read in the game.

[Shion's Sanity]

"Dramatic turn", huh...I fear the worst for my favorite photographer.;-;