Otaku Culture

“The Animalization of Otaku Culture”
http://muse.jhu.edu/journals/mechademia/v002/2.lamarre.html

     This article deals in the evolution of Otaku Culture, from the Era of Ideals to the Era of Fiction and finally to the Era of Animals.  The Era of Ideals takes place during post-war Japan (1945-1970) where unitiy in rebuilding a country was the abundant feeling, with grand narratives, ideals and society being the norm.  Next came the Era of Fiction (1970-1945) where the grand narrative has broken down but still considered fiction.  Then came the Era of Animals (1995-present) and the grand narratives disappeared.

“Katawa Shoujo”
http://katawa-shoujo.com/about.php

     I have never played a dating-sim game, so Katawa Shoujo is very different yet somewhat interesting in that it deals with adolescents who are disabled.  Through narrative and dialogue choices, the player navigates the dating scene at a unique school, with the goal of narrowing his options and choosing one girl to be exclusive with - at least that is my impression, for I haven't played to the end yet.  This weekend I will try to finish the game and give a better review.