OTAKU-VERSE ZERO: episode zero and some notes about that

Ok, here is episode zero of OTAKU-VERSE ZERO. 

So what the heck is OTAKU-VERSE ZERO? Well, this is a new weekly web show, “created for otaku all over the universe”, that I’m co-hosting alongside voice actress Yuu Asakawa. In episode zero, we just sit around and shoot the breeze, but future installments will see us running around various locations in Tokyo getting into trouble, blocking doorways, and causing assorted mischief in public. We’ve already shot the first six episodes and I’m going back to Japan next week to shoot another round.

So how did this come to be? Last summer, I was contacted out of the blue by a representative from Japanese “internet radio” channel K’z Station. Turns out they wanted to create their first English language production and were on the hunt for a host. The bulk of their content revolves around chat shows featuring comedians and voice actors, the notable exception being the popular SKE48 program hosted there. I was told I got the gig largely on the basis of my “Hot Tears of Shame” podcast, which is weird since I figured only about 10 people listened to it and episodes come out infrequently at best. But I guess this proves you never know who might be listening…

So far, the biggest difference between doing OVZ and other shows in Japan like Tokyo Eye or Eigo de Shabera Night is the sheer amount of freedom Yuu-san and myself are getting. Previously, I’ve had to work from weird scripts and copious direction, but this show -- even on location -- is pretty much improvised on the spot. As usual, I have no idea what I’m doing or saying, but at least I’m responsible for my own flopping around here.

Episode zero will be up for the next two weeks as part of the “getting to know you” phase. Episode one will go up on 11/29 with weekly updates thereafter. The show is being hosted by K'z Station on YouTube for now because, hey, it is the world's default video player. Please spread the news around about the show, link to it, like it, etc! Feedback is encouraged, so please send comments, suggestions, and requests to the gang at [email protected]. Thanks for your support!!!

Comments

[The Otakuologist]

Don't worry about floundering around out there. If your webcast is as good as the magazine I can pretty much guarantee that the otaku will follow. I know I will anyways.

Welcome to the webvideo verse!

[spm]

I have no problem promoting your show ONLY if you promise a typical "beach" episode with co-host in proper bathing attire.

kidding aside, the convo is pretty fluid. her english is really good and she's eye candy. you need a haircut, hippy.

would it be to much to ask to visit any studio with miniature cities waiting to be stomped?

beware of the stormtrooper!

[SurfPenguin]

I have to say that I rather enjoyed this. You're your usual excellent self, and your co-host is quite refreshing: She doesn't look like she's fresh out of the idol/model factory. I look forward to seeing the next episode!

[Thatonecritic.blogspot.com]

Wow. This is brilliant.

- I did not hear any swears. (something that has been irking me as of gaming or anime shows or podcasts as of late)
- It seems very humble. The way the two of you act allows me to connect well with what's going on. It's friendly. It's inviting.

Thank you for a wonderful episode.

[Patrick]

Thanks for letting me down easy with all them nice comments!