Cooledtured Blog

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Frightful Festivities: Pre-Order Your Five Nights at Freddy’s Funko Pops Today!

Get ready for a spine-chilling holiday treat! Funko Pop is releasing a limited-edition series of Five Nights at Freddy’s figures just in time for the festivities. Pre-orders are now open exclusively at cooledtured.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Discovering the Hidden Beauty and Depth of Taiyō Matsumoto’s Tekkonkinkreet: A Tale of Unity and Struggle in a Vibrant Cityscape

The influence of a city is a phenomenal surrounding. Sometimes, I see a resonance and rhythm to it. Wherever, if given close attention, I can sense a vitality nearing consciousness or life of its own. I notice cheers and parades all around: causes and effects. Persisting about my little pastimes in my familiar haunts, I try to quietly yield and observe the outcome of nature’s endless war with the cracks in the concrete, the beauty in it all. Over time, I grow to distinguish relations between them: I learn they are one and I with them. Like the indirect light of the moon from the closest star to the ebb and rising of tides. Or the hue of plant leaves in every season.

My contentment, at times, relies on their courtships as they dance through their phases, calmly sifting less through their differences and embracing the unity and qualia of anticipation for that future next, which arrives into a present now, and fades into the past then. I see patterns and might unknowingly seek comfort in their background familiarity, influencing my thoughts quietly and creating subtle expectations within what I often take for granted. When out of balance, the pendulum swings in the goal to be still. To me, It’s the same as when Yakuza member Suzuki, aka Rat, says to Kimura: “Birth signals the arrival of death…most important, love your wife and child. Because all you need is love.”

It’s difficult to begin describing how beautiful, visually stunning and emotionally resonant Taiyō Mausumoto’s manga Tekkonkinkreet is. It’s almost ineffable for me. Adapted into anime by Studio 4°C and directed by visual effects artist Michael Arias, an anime of its caliber I don’t often find. You can almost tell from every frame that the film must have been a passion project for those involved, and it was. It surprises me with something new I hadn’t noticed before every time I’d watch it. The depth and nuance in the story and its characters are splendorous.

In the plot, all are consumed by a struggle to subdue and bend to their will the island of Treasure Town (with one exception of an old sage and homeless veteran named “Gramps”). Treasure Town is a fictional island where Matsumoto intended it to look like a place where old and new Tokyo of the 1980’s collide and mix with other Western and multinational influences. Located there is an amusement park called “Kiddie Kastle” run by the Yakuza. While Yakuza are vying for greater control of Treasure Town to expand and gentrify the area, increasing their wealth and power, there are many other groups intent on holding them at bay to remain secure their own little piece of Treasure Town turf. Some are just trying to keep familiar the only place they’ve ever known, and this is where our main characters come in.

Among the streets and living underneath the highway in an old run down Subaru 360 are the two homeless children protagonists, Black and White. We follow them as they live about the town subsisting on the Dickensian enterprise of pickpocketing. Their hard-knock life contrasts dramatically with the grand transitory cosmopolis they inhabit, and there is so much visual representation to emphasize this conflict between two very different existences. Treasure Town is seen as a place of persistent development while Black and White eke by within it, domiciled in an unmoved and broken down car. Despite their young struggle, they thrive in themselves by the power of their unity, imagination and dreams.

If you love exceptional anime that has lots of heart, Tekkonkinkreet is where it’s at. It won many awards for best art direction, best original story, best sound editing, and even a Japanese Academy Prize for best animated film. An interesting fact about the art direction (and what I think additionally makes Tekkonkinkreet a visual masterpiece) is that the majority of every frame was hand painted, only after that were the digital visual effects added to bring its immersive quality to life. And the character design animation aimed to hearken back to Matsumoto’s original manga in a way that is so unique and of its own. It arose at a unique time for manga and anime. There aren’t many anime like it, maybe a handful.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Pre-Order Now: Funko Pop! Ahsoka TV Series Collection Lands in October 2023!

Prepare to dive into the iconic Star Wars universe as Funko Pop! reveals the Ahsoka TV Series Collection, now open for pre-order and set to release in October 2023. This collection breathes life into beloved characters from the TV series, encapsulating the spirit of the Star Wars galaxy within detailed Funko Pop! figures.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Get Ready: BTS ‘Proof’ Funko Pops Available for Pre-Order!

Get ready to elevate your BTS Funko Pop! collection because the K-pop sensation is making a vinyl comeback! Funko Pop! has just unveiled a new series of figures featuring the members of BTS.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Tokyo Revengers Season 3: The Wait Is Over!

Anime enthusiasts, the day we’ve all been eagerly awaiting has finally arrived. Tokyo Revengers Season 3, and the anticipated Tenjiku Arc, are officially here, and it’s set to take us on another thrilling journey through time and gang warfare. In this article, we’re going to dig into the nitty-gritty of the release, what you can look forward to, and the buzz that’s building around this much-anticipated season.

Season 3 Kicks Off Today

The wait is over as Tokyo Revengers Season 3 premieres today, October 3, 2023. Fans from all corners of the globe are getting ready to reunite with Takemichi and his crew as they confront fresh challenges, formidable adversaries, and persist in their mission to rewrite history.

A Glimpse into the Future

Prior to today’s premiere, a trailer was released, giving fans a sneak peek into the action-packed season ahead. The trailer hints at intense battles, emotional confrontations, and the arrival of intriguing new characters like Izana Kurokawa and Kakucho. This is a clear indicator that Season 3 is shaping up to be a thrilling rollercoaster of excitement and drama.

The Tokyo Revengers Phenomenon

If you’re new to it, Tokyo Revengers has made a name for itself by expertly mixing action, drama, and supernatural twists. It’s all about Takemichi Hanagaki, who unexpectedly gains the power to travel back in time. His mission? To reshape history and safeguard the people he cares about. Season 2 had everyone at the edge of their seats, and the excitement for what’s in store next has been hard to contain.

Global Access for Fans

One of the most exciting developments for international fans is that Disney+ has secured exclusive international streaming rights for Tokyo Revengers Season 3. This means that fans worldwide can simultaneously enjoy the latest episodes as they’re released. Whether you’re in Tokyo or New York City, the adventures of Takemichi and his crew are now at your fingertips, accessible through Disney+ for global viewers and Hulu for U.S. fans.

So, as we embark on this new chapter of time-traveling delinquents, intense showdowns, and emotionally charged drama, make sure to mark your calendars and get ready for a season that’s bound to make a lasting impression in the world of anime. The third season of Tokyo Revengers has arrived, and the atmosphere is filled with anticipation!

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Detective Pikachu Returns': A Continuing Detective Adventure

Detective Pikachu Returns’: A Continuing Detective Adventure

An exciting day for Pokémon fans and mystery game enthusiasts as “Detective Pikachu Returns” finally comes to the gaming scene. This exclusive adventure, designed specifically for the Nintendo Switch, is bound to bring joy to players with its special mix of Pokémon enchantment and exciting detective challenges.

A Long-Awaited Sequel

On this special October 6th, we’re celebrating the arrival of the sequel, “Detective Pikachu Returns,” a follow-up to the beloved “Detective Pikachu.” The first game came out on the Nintendo 3DS back in 2016, and since the announcement of a sequel in 2019, fans have been eagerly counting down the days for the beloved coffee-loving detective’s comeback. “Detective Pikachu Returns” brings back Pikachu and his trusted partner Tim Goodman as they embark on a mission to solve a series of mysterious events in the bustling Ryme City. As players dive into this captivating world, they’ll uncover a lively scenery brimming with fascinating tales and intriguing personalities.

Solo Adventures Await

While “Detective Pikachu Returns” is packed with fun gameplay and an intriguing story, it focuses on solo adventures instead of a multiplayer experience. Gamers will find themselves deeply engrossed in an interactive story that blends character interactions, collecting clues, and exciting exploration. Unlike traditional Pokémon games, this title offers a more unique blend of story and puzzle solving, delivering an exciting single-player experience

A Peek into the Gameplay

As you embark on your journey with Pikachu and Tim Goodman, you will team up to investigate crime scenes, talk to witnesses, and gather evidence, allowing you to become a true detective. The game cleverly combines Pikachu’s conversations with Pokémon and Tim’s interactions with people, providing a smooth continuation of the original “Detective Pikachu” with familiar features and fresh opportunities brought by Pokémon from later generations.

An Exciting Addition

Apart from the exciting gameplay, “Detective Pikachu Returns’’ really shines with its amazing graphics and a mesmerizing soundtrack that truly pulls players into the heart of Ryme City. The dedication to recreating this bustling Pokémon-filled cityscape is truly praiseworthy, turning every moment of exploration into an exciting adventure just waiting to happen.

To mark the release on October 6, 2023, fans can look forward to heartwarming moments and thrilling investigations as they uncover the backstory of Detective Pikachu. With its heartfelt storyline, engaging gameplay, and the charming Detective Pikachu, this sequel promises to be a delightful addition to the Nintendo Switch collection. So, get ready for an unforgettable journey with Pikachu and Tim Goodman as they confront the unknown and celebrate the origins of Detective Pikachu.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Assassin’s Creed Mirage: A Return to Roots on October 5

Today, October 5, 2023, one of the most iconic video game franchises is back with a new release, Assassin’s Creed. With the release of Assassin’s Creed Mirage, Ubisoft Bordeaux takes us on a nostalgic journey, harking back to the series’ origins while introducing exciting new elements.

Available Consoles

Mirage is set to launch on various platforms, ensuring players across the gaming spectrum can partake in its captivating narrative. You can embark on this journey on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows PC, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S, and Amazon Luna. Additionally, iOS users with the iPhone 15 Pro models can join in the adventure in early 2024.

Basim’s Path to Brotherhood

Set against the backdrop of 9th-century Baghdad during the chaos of Samarra, Assassin’s Creed Mirage tells the captivating story of Basim Ibn Ishaq. Basim, first introduced in 2020’s Valhalla, undergoes a transformation from a humble street thief into a formidable member of the Assassin Brotherhood.

Stealth, Parkour, and ‘Black Box’ Missions

Mirage brings back the series’ signature elements, with a strong emphasis on stealth, parkour, and the return of the beloved “Black Box” mission design, reminiscent of titles like Unity and Syndicate. Players will once again have the freedom to explore their environment and find clever ways to eliminate their targets. It’s a nod to the franchise’s roots, delivering the immersive gameplay that fans have cherished for years.

Baghdad: A Compact World of Rich Detail

The game’s setting, 9th-century Baghdad, may be smaller in scale compared to recent titles, but it’s a world brimming with historical accuracy and vivid detail. Players will navigate four unique districts, including the Round City and the House of Wisdom, and even visit the iconic fortress headquarters of the Hidden Ones, Alamut. This historically accurate rendition promises to be a delight for history buffs and gaming enthusiasts alike.

Assassin’s Arsenal and ‘Assassin Focus’

Mirage equips players with a vast arsenal of weapons and tools, including the iconic Assassin Hidden Blade, smoke bombs, throwing knives, and poison darts. A new skill tree system allows for customization and upgrades, adding depth to the gameplay. Another exciting addition is the “Assassin Focus” ability, allowing players to eliminate multiple enemies simultaneously, a feature recharged through stealth assassinations.

As the game becomes available on Amazon Luna, PlayStation, Windows, Xbox, and iOS (for iPhone 15 Pro models), it’s clear that Assassin’s Creed Mirage is more than just another installment — it’s a return to the roots of storytelling and stealth that have defined this remarkable franchise.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

F for Fake Funko: How to Spot a Fake Funko POP!

Not all sellers offer legit Funko Pops. Some fans have even bought fake Funkos at conventions. If it’s valuable and collectible, counterfeiters are on it. Sometimes the most avid collectors have unknowingly bought one, later to find they’d been bamboozled. You need to know how to spot a fake Funko, and you’re in the right place to learn how.

Buyer Sword and Shield

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Saw X: A Fresh Slice of Horror for the Halloween Season

As the crisp autumn winds begin to rustle the leaves, horror enthusiasts worldwide are gearing up for a spine-tingling treat this Halloween season: the release of “Saw X.” Since its debut in 2004, this renowned franchise has been a big staple in the horror genre, and its tenth installment promises to bring new thrills and chills. Today, on September 29, 2023, we explore what fans can expect from this long-awaited release.

Setting the Stage: Saw’s Legacy

For nearly two decades, “Saw” has been synonymous with gruesome traps, moral dilemmas, and the enigmatic Jigsaw Killer, John Kramer. The franchise has kept us on the edge of our seats through nine films, each one more bizarre than the one before. It’s time to get ready for “Saw X,” a film that dares to forge new ground while honoring the films that preceded it.

A Dark Tale Between the Lines

“Saw X” introduces a narrative that bridges the gap between the first two films, offering a thrilling throwback to the franchise’s origins. John Kramer, portrayed by Tobin Bell, seeks an experimental cancer treatment in Mexico, only to fall victim to a fraudulent scheme preying on the desperate. Fueled by a newfound purpose, the notorious serial killer unleashes his signature horrors upon the con artists through devious traps.

A Hero in a World of Darkness

Director Kevin Greutert boldly declares that John Kramer will take on the role of the hero in this installment, a stark departure from previous films where he orchestrated sadistic games from the shadows. This shift in perspective promises to provide viewers with a deeper understanding of the infamous character and his motivations.

Exploring the Past: Amanda’s Enigma

“Saw X” also delves into the enigmatic relationship between John Kramer and his apprentice, Amanda Young, played by Shawnee Smith. With their backstory shrouded in mystery, this movie gives an interesting glance into Amanda’s past and how she came to be entangled with wicked Jigsaw.

A Change of Scenery and Unimaginable Horrors

While the Mexican setting adds an intriguing layer to the narrative, fans can rest assured that the heart of the movie remains within the nightmarish chambers of intricate traps and deadly puzzles. With each “Saw” film, audiences have come to expect new, gut-wrenching contraptions that push the boundaries of terror.

With the release of “Saw X” on September 29, 2023, horror fans have every reason to be optimistic about the movie releases for this fall season. This film promises a fresh perspective, a return to the franchise’s roots, and the relentless terror we’ve come to love. Get ready for a terrifying Halloween season with “Saw X”. Brace yourself for a bloody journey and prepare to face your fears.

POP-COOLEDTURED SPECIALIST

Castlevania: Nocturne — A Dark Reign Begins on Netflix

The long-awaite­d day has arrived for fans of the Netflix Castle­vania series. “Castlevania: Nocturne­” is finally here, premie­ring on September 28, 2023. This captivating anime­, inspired by the lege­ndary video game saga, guarantee­s to transport viewers back into the captivating re­alm of vampires and enchanting spells. Le­t’s delve into what this highly anticipated spinoff se­ries has in store for us.

A New Belmont Legacy

“Castlevania: Nocturne” takes us on a journey through the same dark universe as its predecessor. However, it catapults us over three centuries into the late 18th century during the tumultuous French Revolution. Here, we meet Richter Belmont, a descendant of the legendary Belmont clan. Richter, alongside a fearless group of vampire hunters and magic users, must confront a menacing vampire messiah and her forces, poised to plunge the world into eternal darkness. As the last hope for humanity, Richter is tasked with saving the world from a vampire apocalypse.

Release Date and Format

The day has arrived! “Castlevania: Nocturne” is now available for streaming on Netflix. The new season promises an engaging narrative spanning a total of eight episodes. Fans worldwide can simultaneously enjoy this dark fantasy adventure as it is now available to binge-watch on Netflix.

Returning and New Faces

In addition to Richter Be­lmont, the series also includes beloved characters from the original “Castlevania” series, such as Maria Renard and Anne­tte. The inclusion of these familiar faces guarantees an exciting mix of new and nostalgic elements in this thrilling adventure.

Behind the Scenes

The team responsible for “Castlevania: Nocturne­”, known as Powerhouse Animation Studios, will now be le­ading the show’s production once more, maintaining its distinctive visual style. The dire­ctors of the new season, Sam and Adam De­ats, guarantee that fans will experience the same level of animation and scene­-building excellence­ found in the original series.

Expect the Dark and Gory

For those familiar with the previous series, “Castlevania: Nocturne” is expected to continue the tradition of intense violence and dark themes. The trailer teases the bloody battles and emotional struggles of its characters, setting the tone for another mature and immersive adventure.

“Castlevania: Nocturne­” is poised to be an exciting new installment in the series, inviting us once again into the atmospheric and haunting world of its gothic re­alm. Viewers may anticipate an exciting story that delves into a different era of history with Richter Belmont as this season’s main character. A welcoming balance of nostalgia and new storytelling is ensured by the introduction of both new and familiar characters in the series. Behind the scenes, Powerhouse Animation Studios maintains the show’s distinctive visual style and commitment to quality. In “Castlevania: Nocturne­,” fans can expect an exploration of dark e­lements and a continuation of intense­ violence and mature the­mes. This promises another imme­rsive adventure for those­ who are willing to enter its shadowy world.