Merge pull request #246 from kgpmask/january-newsletter

January 2024 Newsletter

src/newsletter_desc.json

@@ -59,5 +59,10 @@
 	"link":"2023-12-1",
 	"title" : "December 2023 Issue",
 	"desc" : "Enter the realm of fantasy and Imagination with our December's Newsletter. With anime introspections and a fun dialogue exchange, we have something for everyone who loves to dream."
+},
+{
+	"link":"2024-01-1",
+	"title" : "January 2024 Issue",
+	"desc" : "MN has not given me a description yet."
 }
 ]

templates/newsletters/2024-01-1/01#shangri-la-real-game.njk

@@ -0,0 +1,75 @@
+{# Ready for review #}
+<div class="page">
+	<div class="article-full">
+		<h2> What if Shangri-La was a real game? </h2>
+		<br/>
+		<div class="article-author">By: Varun Ponnekanti</div>
+		<br>
+		<div class="article-content">
+			<h3>Shangri-La Frontier (The Anime/Manga):</h3>
+
+			<p>Shangri-La Frontier: Crappy Game Hunter Challenges God-Tier Game is a Japanese anime series based on the Shangri-La Frontier manga series by Katarina and Ryosuke Fuji.</p>
+
+			<p>The anime takes place in an age where display-based games are considered retro and full-dive VR games have become the norm. The plot of the anime is about a second-year high school student, Hizutome Rakuro, who is interested in one thing only: finding "shitty games" and beating the crap out of them. His gaming skills are second to none, and no game is too bad for him to enjoy. So what happens when he's introduced to the new god-tier VR game Shangri-La Frontier?</p>
+
+			<center><img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/1-1.webp" alt="Birdhead guy looking somewhere" style="width: calc(min(700px, 60vw));"></center><br>
+
+			<h3>Shangri-La Frontier (The Game):</h3>
+			<p>Shangri-La Frontier is a god-tier game in an age of full-dive VR games, which you can play just using your mind. SLF is a MMORPG (massively multiplayer online role-playing game) that has a vast and beautiful open world. You have to make a character, pick a role for yourself, and delve into the massive world where you level up by killing monsters, can interact with other players and NPC's, and also experience quests and unique scenarios.</p>
+
+			<center><img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/1-2.webp" alt="Man customizing character" style="width: calc(min(700px, 60vw));"></center><br>
+
+			<p>The world of SLF is full of all kinds of monsters, and their level is usually balanced for specific areas. The monsters can be killed, and they would respawn in time. Each has the option to drop items or materials. There are seven unique monsters known as "The Seven Colossi," which can spawn anywhere at anytime, and killing them is permanent; they won't respawn. The story progresses if any player kills one of these seven unique monsters.</p>
+
+			<center><img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/1-3.webp" alt="Shadow Dog" style="width: calc(min(700px, 30vw));"></center><br>
+
+			<h3>The Assumption:</h3>
+			<p>Let us assume a company named Utopia is developing the game “Shangri-La Frontier” and also the full-dive VR headset with which we can play the game using just our minds. The VR headset can make you feel the sensations of touch, smell, and taste that you experience in the game. The introduction of a god-tier full-dive VR game coupled with an advanced VR headset would likely trigger an unprecedented level of anticipation and fascination across various communities.</p>
+
+			<p>Here's a glimpse of how people might react at different stages:</p>
+
+			<h4>Leaks and Rumors:</h4>
+			<p>Leaks about both the game and the VR headset would generate massive speculation and excitement. People would likely discuss the potential capabilities of the VR technology, the game's features, and the overall immersive experience. Some might question the realism of the leaks. But these leaks and rumors will only excite the gaming community and technology enthusiasts. The general public would not react much to the leaks.</p>
+
+			<center><img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/1-4.webp" alt="Hyped up VR guy" style="width: calc(min(700px, 60vw));"></center><br>
+
+			<h4>Trailer Release:</h4>
+			<p>The release of a trailer showcasing the game and the VR headset would likely create unprecedented levels of hype. Tech enthusiasts, VR specialists, and gamers would dissect every element, talking about the possible immersion and how it could potentially impact their gaming experiences.</p>
+
+			<p>The official trailer showcasing the vast and immersive virtual world would captivate audiences. Gamers would speculate on the game's mechanics, combat systems, quest variety, and the depth of player interaction within the VR environment. Tech enthusiasts and gamers would analyze the specifications of the VR headset, discussing its potential impact on the gaming and virtual reality industries.</p>
+
+			<center><img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/1-5.webp" alt="Trailer thumbnail" style="width: calc(min(700px, 60vw));"></center><br>
+
+			<h4>Pre-Release Period:</h4>
+			<p>The combination of an extraordinary game and cutting-edge VR hardware would lead to a pre-order frenzy. Consumers eager to be part of this groundbreaking experience might rush to secure both the game and the headset. Ahead of the game's release, players might begin forming guilds and alliances, preparing for the shared adventure. Online forums and social media platforms would see increased activity as players plan their in-game strategies.</p>
+
+			<p>Given the potential demand, discussions might arise about the availability of the VR headset, leading to concerns about shortages and the scalability of production.</p>S
+
+			<center><img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/1-6.webp" alt="Game poster" style="width: calc(min(700px, 60vw));"></center><br>
+
+			<h4>Release Day:</h4>
+			<p>On release day, anticipation would peak. Fans would eagerly line up at physical and virtual stores to get their hands on the game and the VR headset. Virtual launch events and live streams might accompany the release, generating more buzz. Launch day would mark the beginning of a new virtual world, with players eagerly logging in to explore, quest, trade, and compete in a fully immersive environment.</p>
+
+			Players diving into the game and testing the VR headset would share their initial impressions, praising the immersion, realism, and transformative experience. Reviews, videos, and social media posts would flood the internet.
+
+			<h4>Post-Release:</h4>
+			<p>More people would likely get pulled towards the game with time as the community grows. The game's community would likely remain active, with players sharing their in-game experiences, discoveries, and achievements. Players would join different guilds, which focus on different things, like killing unique monsters, exploring everything in the world, getting to know the lore and story of the world, or PvP.</p>
+
+			<h3>Impact on Gaming:</h3>
+
+			<ul>
+				<li>• The release of Shangri-La Frontier with the VR headset could mark a turning point in the gaming industry, influencing the development of VR technology and setting new standards for immersion and gameplay.</li>
+				<li>• Display-based games would likely continue to coexist with VR games. While VR experiences might become more popular, traditional games would still have a significant player base.</li>
+				<li>• A more varied selection of gaming alternatives could result from a more fragmented gaming market where users select between VR and non-VR experiences according to available gear and tastes.</li>
+			</ul>
+
+			<center><img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/1-7.webp" alt="Ready Player One" style="width: calc(min(700px, 60vw));"></center><br>
+
+			<h3>Conclusion</h3>
+
+			<p>Overall, the release and success of a game like Shangri-La Frontier would likely drive significant changes in the gaming industry, pushing boundaries and inspiring innovation across various aspects of game development, technology, and player experiences. But this is just speculation, and we don't know when we will get something like this in the future.</p>
+
+			<div class="article-end"></div>
+		</div>
+	</div>
+</div>

templates/newsletters/2024-01-1/02#how-ancient-legends-shape-anime.njk

@@ -0,0 +1,70 @@
+{# Ready for review #}
+<div class="page">
+	<div class="article-full">
+		<h2> Mythical Beginnings: How Ancient Legends Shape Anime </h2>
+		<br/>
+		<div class="article-author">By: Abhiraj Singh</div>
+		<br>
+		<div class="article-content">
+			<p> Japanese mythology is rich and diverse, being a blend of traditional Shintō beliefs, Buddhism, and local folk tales. From the creation of the islands by gods Izanagi and Izanami to legendary creatures like tengu and kappa, these stories have been shaping Japanese culture and traditions for centuries. They've introduced not only elements of mysticism but also moral and philosophical teachings that have helped shape society. Internationally renowned anime frequently taps into this wealth, marrying tradition with modernity. Japanese mythology doesn't just provide colorful characters and tales, but also intricate conflicts and moral dilemmas which become the canvas for many hit shows. </p>
+
+			<p>Some of the most acclaimed anime titles leverage these myths and legends to add depth and authenticity to their narratives. Examples include "The Tale of The Princess Kaguya," recounting the mysterious girl found inside a bamboo stalk, and "Pom Poko," where tanuki (legendary creatures from Japanese folklore) battle for survival against advancing urbanization. These productions not only captivate the audience but also offer a glimpse into traditional Japanese culture and values.</p>
+
+			<h3>Studio Ghibli: On the Wings of Legend</h3><br>
+
+			<p>Studio Ghibli isn't just a giant in the world of Japanese animation but also a master at translating national folklore onto the screen. Globally recognized for its visually stunning and deeply emotional films, the studio has long drawn inspiration from Japanese myths and legends, creating works that captivate audiences from all cultures.</p>
+
+			<p>One of the most mesmerizing examples of this ability is "The Tale of The Princess Kaguya." This story is based on one of the oldest Japanese folk tales titled "Taketori Monogatari" (The Bamboo Cutter's Tale). The legend speaks of a mysterious girl originating from the Lunar Kingdom, landing on Earth within a bamboo stalk. Ghibli, in its adaptation, skillfully blends elements of the original tale with contemporary themes of identity search and parenting challenges.</p>
+
+			<p>"Pom Poko" is another Ghibli flick that dives deep into Japanese folklore. The narrative focuses on the tanuki, creatures believed in Japanese legends to have shape-shifting abilities. In "Pom Poko," the tanuki utilize their talents to combat urban expansion threatening their habitat. While these films revolve around modern society's dilemmas, they use traditional legends as their storytelling medium.</p>
+
+			<p>"When Marnie was There" is another studio film drawing from Japanese tales of spirits and supernatural phenomena. While not as directly based on a specific myth as other Ghibli productions, it's imbued with the spirit of Japanese folklore, particularly in depicting relations between humans and spirits.</p>
+
+			<h3>Mononoke Hime: Ancient Spirits of the Forest in Anime</h3><br>
+
+			<p>"Mononoke Hime," also known as "Princess Mononoke," is one of the most revered films of Studio Ghibli, directed by the unparalleled Hayao Miyazaki. The movie is rich with references to Japanese legends and myths.</p>
+
+			<p>The character of Shishigami, also known as the Forest Spirit, stands out. It is a nod to the kami, spirits from the Shinto religion believed to inhabit various natural objects. In the film, Shishigami is depicted as a guardian of the forest, symbolizing balance in nature. Its ability to grant or take away life mirrors the believed power of kami. When the Forest Spirit loses its head, it becomes a force of destruction, emphasizing the notion that harming nature leads to chaos and devastation.</p>
+
+			<p>San, often referred to as Mononoke, is a human girl raised by wolves. Her strong bond with the wolves and her determination to protect the forest reflect traditional Japanese beliefs in the sanctity of nature and harmony between man and nature. Although San isn't a typical character from Japanese legends, her character is reminiscent of yōkai or obake, creatures capable of shape-shifting.</p>
+
+			<p>"Mononoke Hime" is filled with subtle references to Japanese folklore, from animal spirits defending the forest to Shinto rituals and practices. Through these elements, Miyazaki showcases the beauty and depth of Japanese culture and underscores the importance of coexisting with nature.</p>
+
+			<h3>Inuyasha: The Fabric of Japanese Mythology at the Heart of Anime</h3><br>
+
+			<p>The historical and spiritual context: "Inuyasha" is set in feudal Japan, a time replete with legends, spirits, and demons. The very character of Inuyasha, a half-demon (hanyō), is deeply rooted in Japanese folklore. Hanyōs are figures often found in folktales, offspring of a spirit and a human, suffering due to their dual heritage and sharing traits of both worlds.</p>
+
+			<p>The Shikon no Tama (Jewel of Four Souls) is a stone central to the anime's main plot. It's portrayed as a powerful artifact that enhances demons' powers and turns half-demons into full demons. In Japanese mythology, many such relics and talismans possess extraordinary powers. The Shikon no Tama references the Buddhist concept of the four souls (aramitama, nigimitama, sakimitama, and kushimitama) representing different spirit facets.</p>
+
+			<p>Throughout the anime, we encounter a plethora of demons and spirits. Examples like Shippō, a kitsune (fox demon), and Sesshōmaru, Inuyasha's elder brother and a full demon, are direct lifts from Japanese folklore. Kitsune are frequent characters in Japanese tales, being wise creatures with multiple tails. Another is Naraku, the series' main antagonist, whose name references Naraka (Sanskrit: नरक) that is the realm of hell in Indian religions. According to some schools of Hinduism, Jainism and Buddhism, Naraka is a place of torment.</p>
+
+			<h3>Land of Dragons and Legends: Japanese Mythology in "Dragon Ball"</h3><br>
+
+			<ul>
+				<li>• 
+					<p><b>Turtle Hermit and Kamehameha:</b> Master Roshi, also known as Turtle Hermit, employs a martial arts technique named Kamehameha, which translates to "Turtle Wave." While the technique isn't directly linked to Japanese mythology, the idea of an old sage or hermit teaching a younger hero is a recurrent theme in many Japanese legends.</p><br>
+				</li>
+
+				<li>• 
+					<p><b>Wukong and Son Goku:</b> The name of the main character, Goku, and his signature tail find their roots in the Chinese tale "Journey to the West." In this legend, the central character is Sun Wukong, the Monkey King, boasting immense strength and a tail. Like Wukong, Goku can ride on a cloud and wields a staff that can extend in length.</p><br>
+				</li>
+
+				<li>• 
+					<p><b>Yamcha and the Desert Bandit:</b> The character Yamcha is initially introduced as a desert bandit, referencing traditional Japanese stories of bandits and lone warriors. His companion, Puar, resembles Japanese mythological creatures called "bakeneko" - cat spirits.</p><br>
+				</li>
+
+				<li>• 
+					<p><b>Korin, the mysterious blue cat</b> residing at Korin Tower and one of the oldest, wisest, and most seasoned martial arts masters in the Dragon Ball world, draws from elements of Japanese culture and mythology. In Japan, cats are frequently seen as magical entities. For instance, the "maneki-neko" is a popular cat figure that waves one paw and is considered a luck-bringing talisman. Although Korin isn't a direct representation of the "maneki-neko," his wisdom and magical abilities align with how cats are often portrayed in Japanese culture.</p><br>
+				</li>
+			</ul>
+
+			<h3>Through the Eyes of the Gods: Mythological Echoes in the World of Anime</h3><br>
+
+			<p>Japanese mythology, filled with gods, spirits, and creatures, has for centuries influenced the stories and culture of the Land of the Rising Sun. Its presence in anime underscores not only the creativity of its creators but also a deep need to connect with roots and heritage. In a world where technology overshadows tradition, anime becomes a bridge connecting contemporary viewers to ancient legends, reminding them of the values, dreams, and fears of their ancestors.</p>
+
+			<p>However, it's not just nostalgia and respect for tradition that make anime draw from mythology. Mythological elements provide rich, multidimensional contexts that enrich stories and add depth to characters. Thanks to them, stories become universal, becoming equally important to a viewer in Tokyo as to one in Toronto. After all, regardless of culture or era, the desire to understand our past and connect with it is innate to every human being.</p>
+
+			<div class="article-end"></div>
+		</div>
+	</div>
+</div>

templates/newsletters/2024-01-1/03#zom-100.njk

@@ -0,0 +1,28 @@
+{# Ready for review #}
+<div class="page">
+	<div class="article-full">
+		<h2> Visual Representation of Zom 100: Bucket List of the Dead </h2>
+		<br/>
+		<div class="article-author">By: HRD</div>
+		<br>
+		<div class="article-content">
+
+			<center><img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/3-1.webp" alt="Zom 100 Poster" style="width: calc(min(400px, 50vw));"></center><br>
+
+			<p>The visual representation of Zom 100 is a unique and creative way of depicting the life of a zombie in a post-apocalyptic world. The series incorporates a combination of vibrant illustrations, dynamic animations, and upbeat music to create a contrast between the dark setting and the cheerful tone of the story. To enhance humor, horror, or action, the series also employs various visual elements such as exaggerated facial expressions, comic relief, gore, suspense, and fast-paced movements.</p>
+
+			<center><img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/3-2.webp" alt="Akira feels free" style="width: calc(min(700px, 60vw));"></center><br>
+
+			<p>Zom 100's unique visual style has had a significant impact on the anime industry, particularly in the genres of comedy, horror, and action. By infusing the zombie theme with a fresh perspective, the series has challenged the notion that zombies are merely mindless killing machines. Through its portrayal of zombies with personalities, emotions, dreams, and hobbies, Zom100 has made these creatures relatable and endearing to audiences. Moreover, the series has demonstrated that zombies can have exciting adventures in a perilous world and that they can form meaningful friendships and alliances that offer support and care.</p>
+
+			<div style="display: flex; flex-direction: row; flex-wrap: wrap; align-items: center; justify-content: center;">
+				<img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/3-3.webp" alt="Human lookin like zombie" style="width: calc(min(60vw, 350px)); margin: 5px;">
+				<img src="/assets/releases/2024-01-1/3-4.webp" alt="Terrified Akira" style="width: calc(min(60vw, 350px)); margin: 5px;">
+			</div>
+			<br>
+
+			<p>Anime series that havewith zombies or similar themes can take inspiration from the visual representation of Zom100. By doing so, they can create their own unique and appealing style and story. For instance, the visual representation of Zom100 can be used by other anime series to add more comedy, horror, or action to their plot, characters, and setting. It can also be used to explore various aspects and possibilities of the zombie theme, such as their origin, evolution, diversity, and morality. Additionally, the visual representation of Zom 100 can attract and engage a broader and more diverse audience that enjoys different genres and tastes.</p><br>
+			<div class="article-end"></div>
+		</div>
+	</div>
+</div>