How to Be an Otaku (Anime Geek)

Опубликовал Admin
22-10-2016, 02:45
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Anime, an animation style from Japan that has gained popularity in Western culture, has become well-known to most children and teens. Some people dislike it, but others enjoy it to the extent that they want to be considered an otaku - a slang term that has morphed to mean an anime geek in Western cultures. Some people are unsure of how to do so; however, if you really want to be an otaku, you'll learn how to be one with this article.

Steps

  1. Be aware of "otaku"'s origin. The word otaku carries an extremely negative connotation in Japan - it doesn't equate to simply calling someone a geek for knowing a lot about a subject. The term "otaku" in Japan is a derogatory term that implies that your obsession with something is such a problem that you don't have an outside life and you can't progress in the world due to it. For this reason, avoid using the term "otaku", and try to stick to more neutral terms such as "anime lover".
  2. Research. There are many different types of anime and manga out there. Make a list of anime and manga that you want to look at. What types of genres do you want to watch or read - romance? Action? Fantasy?
    • Unless you have friends who you trust not to play a prank on you, don't ask them for opinions on anime. They may send you something that freaks you out and causes you to give up on being an otaku!
  3. Watch or read what you picked out. When it comes to anime, most anime-watchers look down on those who watch dubbed anime, and sometimes anime is better with subtitles, but if it's something you enjoy, you shouldn't let others' opinions rule you. With manga, it's often said that some mangas are better than the anime versions, as certain parts of the manga often get cut out for time restrictions, so be sure to check out mangas as well as animes.
    • Don't only watch the mainstream animes, as anime is distorted by the fanbase. A lot of the best anime aren't the most popular, as with most things, so pursue it yourself. You may even find an anime to recommend to your friends!
  4. Talk to people like you. They are out there, and that's a promise. Find forums and fan sites where you can share your opinions, ask questions, read fanfiction, or see fan art.
    • Your school may be a good source for this. If your school is allowed to have clubs, you may find an anime club at your school that you can join.
    • A more expensive and time-consuming choice is to go to conventions such as Otaku-Con. They're often crowded and full of loud people, but the majority of people there will be interested in anime and manga, and you can strike up conversations easily - especially if you see someone with an amazing cosplay!
  5. Buy trinkets. These are absolutely necessary for any anime obsessor. It may be hard to find, but any given Sam's Goodies, Hot Topic, or Books-A-Million will have some stuff. Otherwise, finding the genuine Japanese trinkets can be rather difficult. There are plenty of websites, though, so simply Google "[anime] merchandise" you wish to purchase.
  6. Try making an anime music video (AMV). If you like an anime and have a video editing program, you can make an anime music video out of it and upload it to YouTube. It's a great way to share you favorite anime with other people. There are also AMV contests you can enter online as well as at conventions.
    • Keep in mind that you need to be careful about copyright laws. Your video may get pulled down for copyright infringement, so try to change the pitch of the music slightly and edit in effects.
  7. Try cosplaying. Cosplay is often seen as an art form, especially with extremely intricate cosplays! Pick a character that you like and gather the supplies needed to cosplay as that character. Remember, your cosplay doesn't have to be a masterpiece! It's fun to just dress up as a different character.
    • Many people cosplay at conventions. This is a good time to cosplay, as it makes you stand out as a fan of a certain anime.

Tips

  • It's a good idea to buy some merchandise from the anime you like. Check out online stores, as they often have some great items for not-too-high prices.
  • Try to take suggestions from people, even different genres. You never know what you'll like.
  • Try subscribing to a manga/anime magazine like Shojo Beat. Shojo Beat also has stuff about Japan's latest trends.
  • There are many online manga places, but it's suggested that you try to support the anime community by buying the manga, or, even better, attending some of the conventions.
  • Not everything on this list is something you have to do. For example, maybe you want to watch a lot of anime and read manga, but you don't want to cosplay or write fanfiction. That's great! You can be an anime lover and just not into everything . it does not mean you aren't doing it right. Saying there is a "right way" to be an anime lover means that it forces you to conform. If you love it, feel free to love it your own way!
  • Watch anime online. Once you find your first anime, you can type in "[anime name] episode 1", at these few sites: Veoh.com, YouTube.com, kissanime.com, or Crunchyroll.com. However, be aware that not all anime may be posted due to copyright laws, and sometimes the sites dedicated to watching anime can be rather slow due to the web traffic!
  • Create anime groups online and add (only) anime fans like you. The most effective group could be a WhatsApp group.

Warnings

  • Read the page "Not Be a Rabid Otaku" and follow its advice, otherwise you may end up annoying people.
  • Be careful in the anime community. Some people are interesting, but at times, you will run across the snobs or rude people. Don't let them deter you from being a fan.
  • Be noted, otakus are usually treated as freaks in Japan and that it is not "cool" or "awesome" to be one. Keep your power levels in check. Same goes for North America; don't expect to get dates or invited to parties because of your intimate Naruto knowledge.
  • If your friends aren't into manga and anime, then don't go on and on about it. You may love it, but that doesn't mean you have to inflict it on others who don't share your interests; you may turn them away.
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