Claymore

I don't easily accept and start chasing series. A series, be it an anime or drama series, is quite a long affair of which requires you to catch every episode. I also wouldn't be bothered watching something from the middle, missing out on all the plot before where I've started, especially if I can't access the old episodes. I'd always be skeptical of what's popular - having a weird general impression that "the show everyone's talking about" is most probably just overrated until I actually watch it myself. To start stacking series means we'll end up with heaps of shows to download every week. In worst case scenario we end up restricting ourselves to the TV during their show times. I don't like schedules.

Come to think of it, I'm watching a lot less anime than I used to. It's pretty much just Bleach, Naruto and Death Note. Perfect time to check out for new, well-acclaimed series.

Then I'm introduced to "Claymore". Hot female warriors, anyone?

Plot Summary from Anime News Network: In a world where monsters called Yoma prey on humans and live among them in disguise, humanity's only hope is a new breed of warrior known as Claymores--silver-eyed girls who have willingly become half monster to destroy the predators. But the more the Claymores call on their supernatural strength, the closer they come to losing their human sides forever. (image: Clare, main character.)

After watching the released 9 episodes so far, I'll have to say its pretty decent. Not your typical shonen bish and bash violence. It's no-bullshit limbs and blood well-choreographed swordplay with some nudity and an interesting plot. Also, the animation is near movie-quality, contrary to animes who get away with terrible animation like Naruto, at least pre-Shippuden especially during the fillers. What else could I say? Hot females warriors. K go.

On World of Warcraft: GMs has announced that arena Season 1 ends June 12, which means it's most likely the date for arena titles and rewards to be bestowed upon the deserving. New Arena, honor rewards would also be made available. The official thread as follows: http://forums.worldofwarcraft.com/thread.html?topicId=106771822&sid=1

Due to our warlock having to deal with IRL issues and not renewing his account anytime soon, hopes of climbing the 3v3 ladder are slim. Hence I'm currently working on my 2v2 with my full focus on maintaining the top 25 spot for my Armored Netherdrake with my Paladin, Leonardo. Problem is, the nature of 2v2 combat inevitably means there would be counter-combos. It's hard to climb steadily unless we end up playing safe and avoiding certain combos. A Warrior/Pally for example, details aside, has too huge an advantage over a Rogue/Pally to make it worth the risk. Now that poisons are easily dispellable, it makes it much harder for rogues to control the game. Mathematically speaking, it is an impossible matchup assuming both teams are of equal standards.

I don't often bother about PvE news - but it's impressive to see guilds already killing Kael'Thalas. According to the feedback from those hardcore pve guilds themselves, the content is actually fun. I do feel kinda bad tho, as I sorta hoped deep down he doesn't die and just kinda bails out at 1% :). He was one of my favorite heroes back in WC3, along with Illidan who I hope doesn't die either. But then again, following the end of Frozen Throne, he should have been killed by Arthas already.

Here's my summary of World PvE Progression:
Serpentshrine Caverns cleared. (Lady Vashj slain)
Tempest Keep cleared. (Kael'Thalas slain)
Mount Hyjal 4/5 killed.
Black Temple 5 bosses killed.

Check out the boss kill videos at www.warcraftmovies.com

My respects to Nihilum guild for their astounding chain of world-first kills. PvE is not hard, but it sure requires each and every member to provide their full, professional commitment and prowess to the guild and much more.

I'll leave other topics for next. Going off to sleep, Ciao!

P.S. Check out this legendary female player recruiting post here.