Robotech Companion is Back Online

It's been a while, but I finally got around to putting Robotech Companion back on the web. I cleaned up the site a little, got it working and all. Does it need a major redesign? Yeah, but it'll be some time before I get around to doing it. The important thing is that its back up. Now fans can read the FAQ and checkout the other goodies. Enjoy.

http://www.robotechcompanion.com/

Beta Fighter Masterpiece still a Go

The latest news directly from Tommy Yune on Space Station Liberty, is that the Beta Fighter will be produced for sure. The difference is that the Japanese will not be doing the production, due to current events read on other blogs. To summarize, the Masterpiece Alpha Fighters by Toynami were going to be reproduced by a Japanese company named Aoshima. This company wanted to enhance the Alphas and sell them in Japan under the Mospeada brand. However, Aoshima felt a need to have these toys out by Christmas in Japan. The factories they decided to use rush the production unbelievably that the toys came out ruined.

Ultimately, this is good news for Toynami and maybe even the production quality. Toynami will be sticking with the factory that produced all the masterpiece alpha fighter toys so far. They'll be able to keep their molds and control over the product.

Michael Bradley Working on LSB II CD

It was mentioned on Captain JLS' Odyssey III blog that Michael Bradley is getting to work on his new album for Robotech fans. Well, yesterday, Bradley updated his blog on his hard work to bring out an acoustic version of his tunes:

"Still working every day on the acoustic Robotech remake CD...it's a tough one. Much harder than the first fully produced and arranged Lonely Soldier Boy CD. I tried to keep it to one guitar/one voice (as I've said in previous blogs)...but I had to add another guitar here and there. The slower tunes work OK with the solo guitar, but the more up-tempo stuff needs help. So I gotta do what I gotta do. "Lonely Soldier Boy" is just one guitar...as is "The Way to Love"...which has turned into a slower tune. It's a nice mood. I like them a lot. I used a finger-picking style on both of those arrangements. It's really tough to perform, since that's not my style of playing...hopefully I pulled it off. This record is aimed at Robotech fans...and I know you guys are pretty forgiving (at least I hope)! Anyway, I don't have a release date as of yet...but I'm still hoping to get it out real soon."

For his full blog post: http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=64810710&blogID=337747422

Robotech Shadow Chronicles Keychains

Robotech feels pretty dead these days, so its almost an amazement to see new merchandise. Yeah, they're pretty minor, but wow a physical product.

I think the best one is the Shadow Chronicles REF logo keychain. The rest is alright. They got some patches too. It's just interesting to see something new for a change anyhow.

Check them out today:

http://www.robotech.com/store/viewcategory.php?id=7

Robotech RPG Coming 2008

Palladium Books released a new press release with brand new details about the upcoming Robotech RPG: The Shadow Chronicles.

Robotech® The Shadow Chronicles® RPG – January 2008
The artwork is assigned and being created, the cover is being tweaked, the research and note making continues, and bits of first draft writing are finished. Sorry, we cannot get this new RPG out before Christmas, but it WILL be released in January, 2008. The artwork is looking fantastic.

The role-playing game will pick up where the DVD movie begins. The return of the Robotech Expeditionary Force, the separation of the SDF-3 from the rest of the fleet, and everything else that is part of Robotech® The Shadow Chronicles®.

Mecha pilots and other fleet personnel O.C.C.s.
Key REF Mecha statted out and illustrated.
Invid statted out and illustrated.
Select spacecraft statted out and illustrated.
Other info and details (depending on space).
Fast playing RPG rules. Mega-Damage setting.
Earth post-Invid occupation, adventure ideas, new character sheets and more.
Cover by Apollo Okamura. Great art throughout.
Written by Kevin Siembieda.
Manga size; easy portability. (An 8½ x 11 deluxe edition may follow in the Spring or Summer of 2008. Additional Robotech sourcebooks to quickly follow.)
224 pages – $16.95 retail – Cat. No. 550. January release.

http://www.palladiumbooks.com/press/press2007-11e.html

Pre-Order at Palladium's online store: http://www.palladiumbooks.com/Merchant2/merchant.mvc?Screen=PROD&Store_Code=1001&Product_Code=550

RobotechCompanion.com is Currently Down

Robotech Companion (.com) is currently down at the moment due to webhost changes. I'm sorry for the downtime. It may be a while until I decide exactly what I'm going to do. My original webhost has decided to close down. Robotech Companion shall return.

If you need to get in touch with me, please leave your comment in this post. Thanks

Lonely Soldier Boy Midi

Happy Halloween to all. A great Robotech fan by the name of Donna has created a midi file of Lonely Soldier Boy. Midi files are old, but still great. Donna has done a great job with making this one so check it out!


http://www.robotechcompanion.com/waves/lonelysoldierboy.mid

RightStuf.com 40% off Funimation DVDs

It's that great time of the year again when rightstuf.com wants you to save money, some big bucks. Well, 40% off of Funimation DVDs means only one thing, Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles. You can use a special code to get 40% of either the original Shadow Chronicles release or the NEW 2-disc special edition of Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles coming out next month. This is off the already discounted price that Right Stuf offers.

40% off Funimation and AN Entertainment DVDs
Coupon Code: spooky
Expires: November 4, 2007 at 11:59 p.m. CDT

Special Edition Shadow Chronicles: http://www.rightstuf.com/cgi-bin/catalogmgr/RLCTsyIP9iEjGqj-cV/browse/item/75712/4/0/0

Regular Shadow Chronicles DVD: http://www.rightstuf.com/cgi-bin/catalogmgr/RLCTsyIP9iEjGqj-cV/browse/item/72415/4/0/0

Robotech Doom Project Nears Release

"Robotech DOOM Game project nears release!

This last Sunday, Oct. 7th, Lobo, (http://firstgen.no-ip.info/ ), officially announced the first beta release of the "Robotech: First Gen" game mod.

Robotech: First Gen is an "old-school" Robotech mod for the EDGE port of the Doom2 game engine. Modern ports like EDGE improve upon the original game engine by adding new feaures such as higher resolution graphics, GL, multiple sound format support and better mutliplayer architecture.

First Gen is a stand-alone game mod that does not require the original game data. Each release contains all you need to play. This is the latest fan-based Robotech game mod to have a release.

If Harmony Gold had licensed the Doom engine - this is what it would look like! Catch the announcement here:
http://edge.sourceforge.net/phpBB2/viewtopic.php?t=135 " - Galaxy Stranger

Related Links:
http://firstgen.no-ip.info/
http://mods.moddb.com/452/robotech-firstgen/
http://edge.sourceforge.net/

ANN Reports on the New Robotech RPG

Yup, it's finally as most people should know by now. Palladium is going full stream ahead with the Robotech: Shadow Chronicles RPG. Anime News Network has put together a very informative article that explains everything you could know about the release. Check it out

http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2007-09-27/robotech-returns-to-palladium-books

Thanks Chris for the news

Fan Blog: Studio MMG Back Better Than Ever

Studio MMG is known throughout for his impressive flash animations and art. Of course he used to be a very vocal part of the community. MadMapGuy has changed over the months along with his blog. He has moved away from the vocal group to a better creative side. MMG's new blog entitled Concept Central focuses on art concepts and ideas from science fiction and fantasy stories including Robotech.

The blog is already looking great with the Robotech art he has posted up. Check it out and don't judge on the past.

http://conceptcentral.blogspot.com/

Shadow Rising & Funimation deal LEAKED!

I'm not going to say a lot about this. I can say that it's hard to really know if this is for real or not. The leak seems unusual for Harmony Gold to hand over very important documents and information to someone who claims he's basically a stranger to Tommy and Steve. This may just be a hoax, but we'll see.

I am linking to the original post on RDF HQ for everyone. Expect this person's blog and other information to disappear from the face of the planet within a few days once Harmony Gold learns about this.

http://p081.ezboard.com/frdfhqcommunicationscenterfrm50.showMessage?topicID=23.topic

Benny R. Powell Interview by RT Companion

Benny R. Powell is the author of Academy Comic's Robotech: The Movie comic book released in 1996. He is best known for his time at Marvel Comics and his own independent comic studio, Bench Press Studios. I was fortunate enough to interview him about his career and his work on the Robotech Movie comic. Enjoy.

If you have any additional or followup questions for Mr. Powell, please submit them either by e-mail to me or comments of this blog. I will choose the best. Please submit them by the Friday the 21st of September 07.

Benny R. Powell Interview by Robotech Companion: http://www.robotechcompanion.com/interviews/bennypowell.htm

A!PoN's Tommy Yune Interview

This is a bit old. It was done either late 2006 or early 2007. However, I just came across it today and thought some fans would be interested in watching it. A!PoN, an anime podcast group, interviewed Tommy Yune about Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles, its production, and about himself. It took place after fans saw the film, so Tommy spoke more in-depth about why the film is the way it is. Anyhow, some people will find it interested, mostly casual fans.

A!PoN's Tommy Yune Interview: http://www.blip.tv/file/75543/

New Space Station Liberty Shows

Two shows not to miss
Sunday, September 9th at 7:00 p.m. Eastern/4:00 p.m. Pacific Time
Kevin McKeever will be coming on Space Station Liberty to talk about the Warner Brothers deal, Anime Bento, and upcoming Palladium's Robotech RPG. This should be the first time that Harmony Gold speaks out publicly about the live action film. It's not expected that Kevin will cough up much information, but should still be interesting.

Friday, September 14th at 10:00 p.m. Eastern/7:00 p.m. Pacific Time
Kevin Siembieda and Tommy Yune will be on Space Station Liberty to discuss in detail about the new upcoming Palladium's Robotech RPG book.

Remember that all fans are welcomed to join the live interactive podcast either through calling in or downloading the TalkShoe cilent to ask questions through text chat.

Space Station Liberty Podcast Show: http://www.talkshoe.com/talkshoe/web/talkCast.jsp?masterId=5988

The comprehensive guide on various methods of connecting to TalkShoe: http://terrania.us/talkshoe/

Let the Hype Begin: Robotech Live Action

The new fad has began, it's the fad of big Robots on the big screen. The success of Transformers has made a many interested in cashing in on a fad yet to be born. Rumor has it that Warner Bros. Pictures has licensed Robotech to create a full live action movie out of it. WB has chosen Maguire Entertainment led by Tobey Maguire to produce it for them. "We are very excited to bring 'Robotech' to the big screen," Maguire said. "There is a rich mythology that will be a great foundation for a sophisticated, smart and entertaining film." Drew Crevello from Supercool Hollywood BigTime Prods. is also producing. Craig Zahler will be writing the screenplay.

"Frank Agrama of rights-holder Harmony Gold will exec produce; Jason Netter will serve in a producer capacity. Matthew Reilly brought the project to Warners and is overseeing. Daniel Shafer brought the project to Maguire and will shepherd for the company."

What can a serious fan make of all this madness? Oh it won't be pretty. Robotech.com has already treated it like a silly joke through their news post: "OMG ROBOTECH LIVE ACTION MOVIE!!! Nawww..... could this grapevipe from The Hollywood Reporter and MovieWeb even be true?"

On a more serious note, it appears that this agreement to make a live action movie is extremely fresh and brand new. This means almost no time has gone into the production process or pre-production. A lot of problems will come and it'll take a couple of years to produce the movie. However, its extremely unlikely that the Robotech live action will see the light of day. Companies are known for buying license rights to cartoons, games, and merchandise without ever getting far. This is not Transformers whom had such huge super success with the Transformers cartoons and toys for over 20 years. Robotech does not have this kind of backing. Look at this quote: "Last month, Regency picked up 1980s Japanese anime series "Voltron"" See what I mean? Welcome to the fad of robot movies only created based solely on how well the Transformers live action movie did

The whole point of the articles is to create hype, a lot of hype to drive the production. You could believe that some changes made over at Robotech.com were done to pervent people like me shooting down everyone's hype. Harmony Gold has shown commitment to the Robotech brand and wants their core creations to be released. Shadow Chronicles was completely based on Harmony Gold keeping full control to allow the creativity freedom that Robotech should have. This won't be the case with this live action production. It's possible and likely that HG is treating the live action movie like their other third-party merchandise in where it doesn't really matter what happens to it. It's just more support for their core projects: Robotech Anime.

Hype is important from a marketing point of view, but all I say is that as loyal fans, don't be disappointed if the movie sucks or never comes out.

Long Live Robotech the cartoon.

News Articles:
http://www.hollywoodreporter.com/hr/content_display/news/e3i1f2de64a1d24bd5585bf89b0691d2011
http://www.movieweb.com/news/67/22567.php

Leave positive hype here: http://www.robotech.com/community/forum/read.php?id=1774514&forumid=31 As Harmony Gold would say, its important to make companies think their Robotech brand is fully supported by fans with no complaints and problems. Too bad we hardcore people aren't always happy. We're die-hard fans afterall.

Robotech Comic-Con Report

I figure that there will be people who want to know the latest facts but don't want to spend the time looking elsewhere. So here we go from what I know.

The new Robotech sequel to The Shadow Chronicles will be called "Robotech: Shadow Rising" They assume it will take two years for the new production to come out. There's not a lot of information about it yet. We do know that Steve and Tommy is working on the scripts and is in pre-production. Harmony Gold did show some kind of teaser trailer at Comic-Con for it though. This trailer should appear online at some point.

Robotech: The Shadow Chronciles DVD will be re-released this November as a Collector's Edition with two discs that will include a lot of extras such as first draft animation, outtakes, and other things. These first draft animation scenes seem interesting as Kevin attempt to say how they're not very family friendly...

On the Toynami front, the New Generation Beta Fighter will finally see release. It will be fully transformable and attach to the Alpha fighter. As well, New Generation Cyclones will finally be produced as well. Scott's Cyclone is the first and will be fully transformable with a Scott figurine. Both toys should be out this fall. The other cyclones will most likely be produced at some point.

Captain JLS posts a Anime News Network link on his site. A pretty good summary of the Robotech panel: http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/convention/2007/comic-con-international/harmony-gold-usa

I think that's about it. That's all the main facts we know at this time.

Fan: Robotech Genesis' Teaser Trailer

The fanfilm group named UEG has cotninued work on their project and is offering a new teaser trailer to fans:

"We are proud to present you our new teaser trailer. The teaser shows the amazing advance we made in the production of Robotech Genesis... Presented in High definition. And is a must see....
http://www.robotech.united-earth-group.com/

The High definition (HD) version of the trailer can be found in the "downloads" section (Robotech Genesis - Teaser Trailer)
http://www.robotech.united-earth-group.com/component/option,com_ionfiles/Itemid,301/

Visit our forums as well, and feel free to drop us your comment..
http://www.robotech.united-earth-group.com/component/option,com_fireboard/Itemid,307/ "

- Regards U.E.G july 2007

Destroy All Podcasts DX reviews Mospeada

The podcast by the name of "Destroy All Podcasts DX" has decided to review Genesis Climber Mospeada Anime series, which is the Japanese source for Robotech's third saga. There's lots of fans for both versions of Mospeada, so this review should be of interest.

You can listen to review of their 15th episode here: http://www.destroyallpodcastsdx.com

In other news, I finally got my copy of the Art of Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles. So, it was a month late, better than three months.

Destroy All Podcasts DX reviews SDC Southern Cross

A podcast by the name of "Destroy All Podcasts DX" has decided to review Super Dimension Cavalry: Southern Cross Anime series, which is the Japanese source for Robotech's second saga. I haven't listened to it yet, but it should be pretty interesting. There's not too many people who has seen the original version.

You can listen to review of their 14th episode here: http://www.destroyallpodcastsdx.com/

A New Era of Uncertainty

It's true I've been out of the loop since July 1st. It seems a lot of major things have happened in a very short time. In reality, it's been happening without our knowing it. Robotech as a whole has been slowing down and the activity has been dying. Robotech as a product is not regenerating like it should either. Shadow Chronicles was meant to, but as events unfold, this may not be the case.

If you read the post below this, Khyron Prime, the first fan I know of, has actually attacked Harmony Gold physically. Ok, it was a pie, but it was something unheard of. Beyond this fact is something more serious. In the Anime News Network article, it states that Tom Bateman along with Alan Letz no longer work for Harmony Gold. I don't know if they were fired or laid off, but this is important. Tom Bateman was a major part of the Robotech department for us fans. He was someone who truly believed in the Robotech series and the Robotech brand. He was a major link of true fan communication between us and the company. Tom also helped Shadow Chronicles be a better Robotech product than it might have been, even if people still didn't like the final result. Whatever you think, this will cause a major shift in the future of Robotech. I will greatly miss Tom as a fan-friendly member of Harmony Gold. Hopefully he will stick around in the fandom and be a strong influence for Robotech.

It's sad to say, but Robotech just isn't what it was. The TV series will always be great, but it's the community and the world around it that made it last. I been a fan for over 9 years, and I think the hardcore flame in me is slowly cooling off. I still love Robotech, but I'm saddened by the last year or two worth of it's life.

I will like to give notice to Captain JLS' blog: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/
He does a much better job at reporting common news and keeping up with things. JLS' video blogs are excellent as well.

I have decided to allow Captain JLS to take major coverage of popular and common news on his blog. He already does this and should continue to do a good job that he does. I will focus more on what he has missed and uncommon things. This does not mean my blog is dead. Please continue to send me your project news submissions and other things. I will continue to post about Robotech and the community. The only difference is that I will allow JLS to take the lead with the common news while I focus more on other articles in Robotech.

Let Robotech live. The fans is all it has.

Been Out of the Loop + Tommy, Khyron, & Pies

Well well. I been out of the loop on the web realm for over a week and the most action seemed to have happened then. Obviously the biggest news is Khyron Prime, but it's not that new now. It's about Tommy Yune, Khyron, and Pies. You have to watch it to believe it.

Anime News Network's Major report: http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/convention/2007/anime-expo/robotech's-tommy-yune-pied

Fan Creation: New Generation Wallpaper

ShaheenJ, a member from Robotech.com, has created a nice large Robotech wallpaper that is based around The New Generation. There is that one vehicle in bike mode that looks a lot like the Garland from Robotech: The Untold Story. Anyhow, good work!

Leave your comments at: http://www.robotech.com/community/forum/read.php?id=1729653&forumid=16

Ebay: Lot of Sentinels Book 4 Comics

It looks like Sentinel comics are in demand, the bid is up to 50 bucks on Sunday. I heard these issues are rare. So, if you're interested, heh heh. No I'm not the one selling these. Bid ends on the 27th. Thanks Bryan for the notice.

Ebay Auction of Book 4 Comics:
http://cgi.ebay.com/Lot-of-Robotech-The-Sentinels-Book-4_W0QQitemZ220123915765QQihZ012QQcategoryZ3979QQssPageNameZWDVWQQrdZ1QQcmdZViewItem

I found this guy is also selling a good lot of the the first Sentinels Book comics, the first 16 issues. There's only one bid on these, so I guess they're not as hard to get: http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?MfcISAPICommand=ViewItem&item=220123919021

Fan Creation: U.E.G.'s SDF-02

"We took an interesting direction, and designed the SDF-02 with the same structure as the SDF-01 , along with the aesthetics of the following armies of the southern cross ships...." - U.E.G.

A few other pictures including prototypes: http://www.robotech.united-earth-group.com/component/option,com_zoom/Itemid,266/catid,13/

U.E.G. welcomes comments here:
http://p081.ezboard.com/SDF2-Southern-cross-esthetics/frdfhqcommunicationscenterfrm35.showMessage?topicID=493.topic

Source page: http://www.robotech.united-earth-group.com/content/view/1285/283/

Space Station Liberty Interviews Greg Finley

Chris Meadows aka Robotech_Master will be interviewing Greg Finley on his live talk show podcast Space Station Liberty. Greg Finley is the voice actor for Captain Gloval and Commander Leonard along with his responsibility as a writer and dailogue director for the Robotech TV series! The interview will be recorded live, and will take place on Saturday, June 23rd at 9 p.m. Eastern/6 p.m. Pacific time. After Meadows completes his interview, Finley will take questions from the call-in audience, and questions can also be submitted via the contact form at http://terrania.us/emailme.htm

Space Station Liberty is the live call-in talk show hosted by Chris Meadows via the TalkShoe podcasting service. The focus of these shows is the Robotech universe and fandom. Guests and audience members may call in by ordinary telephone or Voice-Over-IP and participate in the discussion, as well as share comments by text-based chat. The show can be streamed live or downloaded as an mp3 podcast after recording ends. For more information on Space Station Liberty, see http://terrania.us/liberty/. For more information on TalkShoe, see http://www.talkshoe.com/

We ask all Robotech fans to come join us for these once in a life time chances to speak and listen to the creators of Robotech. You can listen live or download the show later. You really should download the TalkShoe cilent and join us in the chat cilent where you can talk to other Robotech fans, ask questions, and have the choice to call in to ask your very own questions to the guests.

Saturday, June 23rd at 9 p.m. Eastern/6 p.m. Pacific time
http://www.talkshoe.com/talkshoe/web/talkCast.jsp?masterId=5988

Thanks Kevin for the photo!

Fan Creation: Jpn Macross FanFilm Preview

MadMedGuy is at it again. He has created a preview of his next fanfilm creation. This time he returns back to the japanese Macross universe during the 2012 era. This relates to the japanese SDF Macross and not Robotech.

"I wanted to bridge the gap between the Macross television show and its music video sequel "Macross Flashback 2012". - MedMapGuy

Watch the Preview here: http://www.deviantart.com/deviation/57832657/

RDFUnderground.com Is Down

Justy is having some terrible issues with his web site. So, there won't be any new shows for a few days until his site is straighten out.

From Justy:
"I was upgrading the site today, and something horrible happened. Somehow, probably a bug with my FTP client or something, erased the entire website. It's gone. All gone. I'm going to try to get this fixed tonight, but if I don't, I just want to say that there will not be a new episode of the RDF Underground until I get the site back up and running, and everything fixed."

Good luck to Justy to get his page back together.

UPDATE: RDFUnderground.com is back online with its new format. I think it's still a bit under construction.

Fan Creation: Compliation of Robotech X-Plane Models

A couple of months ago, I showed off a youtube video of some 3D CG veritech models that 00lem00 had created and flew with his simulator program. Well, 00lem00 has put together a new video that is a compliation of a large number of Robotech planes he has constructed and flew in his flight sim. This includes the VF-1, Alpha, Logan, Condor, and a couple of others. Enjoy.

Japan: Custom Built Beta/Tread

It appears there are some Mospeada fans in Japan that really love the show. I'm pretty sure this is custom-made, based on one of the poster's translations. It would be so awesome if this kind of quality could be made for Robotech at a reasonable price. Enjoy.

View all pics here: http://l-point.web.infoseek.co.jp/cgi-bin/2mc/gallery/18th/1180198250/

Source: http://www.robotech.com/community/forum/read.php?id=1740120&forumid=23&pagenumber=2

Special thanks to Bryan

We do not need to be dependent

I started to comment on what Nenad had to say about things Harmony Gold should and shouldn't be doing. This was on the entry directly below this one. He mentioned about how they had to create sequels to keep Robotech alive. So, I started to rant on enough to make an entry about what I had to say about a bigger subject. The dependence on a company:

I would disagree on this thought process that we need Harmony Gold desperately. Let me explain what that means. There are so many people who live for Harmony Gold to update their web site, to produce material, to make proper sequels, and a lot more. People expect so much out of Robotech.com that it's sad. The web site is merely a corporate advertisement for their product. It doesn't have to have all this stuff people expect. That's just how Hollywood works. So, that's just the main thing. The other major thing is that people follow Harmony Gold's decisions on what's canon and what's not like a religious faith. I can understand it may be nice to know what the company is following for their background on what they create, but it has nothing to do with our own personal continuity. The fans are independent individuals who can actually decide what the canon is going to be for Robotech. There surely won't be one of them. It may not be official, but that doesn't matter. The drawback is that most products the company makes won't support your own continuity. Nothing new for Robotech.

My own continuity for Robotech is solely based on the TV series. Only the 85 eps. Everything else is alternative. I don't care what HG decides is or is not canon. If I don't believe the TV supports such, its not canon by me. However, it doesn't stop me from enjoying The Shadow Chronicles and create an alternative continuity makes it work with the show per say. Obviously, I want them to make all sequels to be solely based on the series. I hope they do. Either way, a lot of people get so hyped about official canon, but I haven't followed that since I realized the day that Robotech products typically conflicted with the 85 episodes.

You also don't need sequels to keep something alive. There are so many followers of discontinued or very inactive products out there. Robotech itself survived very well without a new animation. Yeah, it got some support through comics and minor production items, but it was alive through fans. There are many shows and other products that live on without a company backing it anymore. You may not be interested in the likes of Atari, the Commodore, and old computers, but there's a whole community that is. They completely survive through their own passion. No company supports them in any way. The most you get now is companies attempting to release retro game collections. Robotech has never had a problem of gaining brand new fans through the 85 episodes of the TV series. The novels were also a major source of new fans too. As long as people can get their hands on it, there will be a new wave. I became a Robotech fan when Cartoon Network aired the series. That's over 12 years after Robotech was fully supported by Harmony Gold. The comic series and RPG were the only things around. A lot of people in the community were passionate fans and kept Robotech going before and after that.

Robotech is owned by the fans to do what they wish with it. I understand people want new products, and that's great. You want Harmony Gold to produce high quality items. That would be great, but this is Robotech. We all like the TV series or the novels still. Don't we? We're still wasting time on this product called Robotech because of those items, huh? I guess that means Robotech survived 20 years because the fans kept it alive through those great creations. So, I tell you now. It's up to the fans to keep it going. There's nothing at all that stops you from putting effort into fan projects and community events. If you like what HG make, buy it, but take action to make your own stuff. Keep Robotech alive through your support of the fandom.

A few comments...

I don't know where to start. It seems that my blog has attracted the most angry Robotech fans on the planet. They're not just angry...they're ready to shoot up every person that comes near them. What the hell has happened??

Yeah, I know the hardcore community has already had major debates, flame wars, and some wackos, but come on. We're at an era where Robotech so dearly needs the fans to survive. The peak of our popularity of a community has come and gone. Why are we still attacking each other? I can completely agree and disagree with reasons to be upset with Harmony Gold. That's normal to attack the "company." However, the war between fans need to stop. We all love Robotech. We all have our own beliefs about it. We need to stay together and support each other.

Hey, some people didn't like that I even pointed out that MedMapGuy may leave. He's doing a lot more than some of the people who complain. He actually puts effort in creating fan art, fan films, and a pretty interesting blog. Some of you complain about my blog, but I don't see you trying to help me. I'm open to friendly support and suggestions. My blog is fully open for other people's content. However, no one ever cares to submit much. I give thanks to the very few who do. Robotech as a whole has really lost its active community. People don't give any sign of support much anymore. When there is some sign of life, it's hatred, not help. What the hell is wrong? I don't care if you think Harmony Gold ran Robotech into the ground. It doesn't change anything. You and I are still fans, aren't we? It's the responsibility of the community to keep Robotech alive for ourselves. We are the ones who will generate the excitement and draw. A company doesn't decide this. The consumers do. The fandom are the ones who make and break products. It doesn't even matter if the product is bad, the community can make itself happy through its own means.

So, I think we need to point our guns elsewhere and help unite the fans. We will disagree, but we are people. If you're a Robotech fan, then you should be welcomed with open arms no matter your beliefs. No, we may not get along, but harsh comments don't change people. There's also the matter that Harmony Gold and the fandom are two different entities. Don't get them confused. The fandom must continue to support itself within or face the reality that Robotech can no longer go on with or without a corporate backing. Don't let your hatred or loyalty to Harmony Gold stop you from putting the fandom first. We must stick together and help one another.

I ask you to be supportive, helpful, and friendly. We can all work together. Stop the hatred towards your fellow fan. Thanks.

Note: My blog is very flexible. I'm very open to new and additional ideas in a constructive matter. We can all work together to bring a new age to Robotech.

Space Station Liberty Next Show

Chris Meadows aka Robotech_Master will be hosting a Robotech discussion on his live talk show podcast Space Station Liberty. This episode will be about the recent news and reviews such as mobile game. The show will be recorded live, and will take place on Sunday, June 17th at 2 p.m. Eastern/11 p.m. Pacific time. After Meadows completes his own discussion, Chris will allow topics from the call-in audience, and statements can also be submitted via the contact form at http://terrania.us/emailme.htm

Space Station Liberty is the live call-in talk show hosted by Chris Meadows via the TalkShoe podcasting service. The focus of these shows is the Robotech universe and fandom. Guests and audience members may call in by ordinary telephone or Voice-Over-IP and participate in the discussion, as well as share comments by text-based chat. The show can be streamed live or downloaded as an mp3 podcast after recording ends. For more information on Space Station Liberty, see http://terrania.us/liberty . For more information on TalkShoe, see http://www.talkshoe.com/

Sunday, June 17th at 2 p.m. Eastern/11 p.m. Pacific time
http://www.talkshoe.com/talkshoe/web/talkCast.jsp?masterId=5988

MedMapGuy may leave Robotech fandom

Some of you know him by now, MedMapGuy creates Robotech fanart and fanfilms. It appears that he made some posts on Robotech.com's Production forum that got deleted due to his views on Shadow Chronicles. I think it was the final straw for him that he may plan to leave the fandom once and for all.

Show your support for him to stay or to be strong here: http://www.robotech.com/community/forum/read.php?id=1742841&forumid=16

Read what he has to say in his blog: http://robotechflash.blog.com/

Donations forbidden on Robotech Fan Projects?

A fan with the username of Seifrietti Weisse has been creating free hard copy versions of his Robotech fanfiction book with cover art by MedMapGuy for sometime. This is perfectly alright by Harmony Gold except when Seifrietti stated that donations were gladly welcome. Afterall, giving the guy a few bucks for all the time he put into HIS work should be alright. Seemingly it's not. In the Robotech.com thread that Seifrietti mentioned about taking donations, Steve Yun had to reply with:

"Free fan fiction is fine, but selling fanfiction using copyrighted characters is infringement. Sorry to be a wet blanket, but you need to stop taking any donations immediately."

This statement caused a slight uproar by fans since mere donations should be alright. I think we all understand that selling the work directly is illegal, but a donation for the author's time and effort should be alright. I guess we all know the rules now. Be careful.

Seifrietti Weisse's post with Steve's statement: http://www.robotech.com/community/forum/read.php?id=1741442&forumid=16

Art of The Shadow Chronicles Delayed?

Art of Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles book was meant to be released on June 15th, but I just got an e-mail from amazon saying otherwise...

"Unfortunately, the release date for the item(s) listed below has
changed, and we need to provide you with a new delivery estimate based on the new release date:

Tommy Yune (Author), Carl Macek (Foreword) "The Art of Robotech:
The Shadow Chronicles" [Paperback]
Estimated arrival date: 09/07/2007 - 09/08/2007"

I wonder what's going on. The company showed off the book at a convention and Harmony Gold got an official release date. This may just be an error on amazon's part, but I doubt it. At least we know delays and Robotech go hand in hand nowadays. Ah well...

UPDATE: The publisher of the Artbook has made an entry in their blog addressing the confusion. The book will be released by the end of June. Read it here: http://stonebridgepress.blogspot.com/2007/06/dont-fret-robotech-fans.html

Fan: MedMapGuy Seeks Writer

MedMapGuy writes:
"I'm currently looking for a writer who can help me plot, and punch up my fanfilm.

Details on the film:

Timeline: 2031, between Southern Cross/New Generation
Plot: Evacuation of Earth shortly after Invid Invasion

Any suggestions on how the film should go, or what scenes I can add, or what have you, please post suggestions here or email me at:

tephandchar@yahoo.com

I will greatly appreciate anyone's help. Please keep the fandom alive!

For more details:
http://robotechflash.blog.com "

If you can help out MedMapGuy, make sure you do. He deserves our support for his great fanfilms.

Fan Creation: First Half of Live Action Graphic Novel

Aaron, a robotech fan whos been producing his own live action Robotech comic, has finally completed the first half of his full installment. It's taken eight months of work to pull off, but it was worth it. Make sure you send him feedback and promote his work!

Checkout the film here: https://home.comcast.net/~aarondavidcole/index.htm

Leave your feedback here: http://robotechlagnovel.blogspot.com/

Space Station Liberty Hosts another Robotech Discussion

Chris Meadows aka Robotech_Master will be hosting a Robotech discussion on his live talk show podcast Space Station Liberty. This episode will be about the recent toy news and other things. The show will be recorded live, and will take place on Saturday, June 9th at 3 p.m. Eastern/12 p.m. Pacific time. After Meadows completes his own discussion, Chris will allow topics from the call-in audience, and statements can also be submitted via the contact form at http://terrania.us/emailme.htm

Space Station Liberty is the live call-in talk show hosted by Chris Meadows via the TalkShoe podcasting service. The focus of these shows is the Robotech universe and fandom. Guests and audience members may call in by ordinary telephone or Voice-Over-IP and participate in the discussion, as well as share comments by text-based chat. The show can be streamed live or downloaded as an mp3 podcast after recording ends. For more information on Space Station Liberty, see http://terrania.us/liberty . For more information on TalkShoe, see http://www.talkshoe.com

We ask all Robotech fans to come join us for these once in a life time chances to speak and listen to the creators of Robotech. You can listen live or download the show later. You really should download the TalkShoe cilent and join us in the chat cilent where you can talk to other Robotech fans, ask questions, and have the choice to call in to ask your very own questions to the guests.

Saturday, June 9th at 3 p.m. Eastern/12 p.m. Pacific time
http://www.talkshoe.com/talkshoe/web/talkCast.jsp?masterId=5988

Toynami Beta Fighter Toy will see Production

Special Thanks to Matt for this news:
"It was announced by Kevin McKeever on Saturday at Super-Con that the Beta will finally see production. Apparently there is going to be an agreement between Toynami and Aoshima regarding the production of the Beta. Toynami has loaned the Alpha and Beta molds to Aoshima which will be producing the Beta for Toynami and it will be way less than the projected $200 cost (my speculation based on similarly produced toys it will be $129). The Beta will plug into the Toynami produced Alphas. This is good news to all of us that have been waiting for a Beta."

Fan Input: Why are you still interested?

Now that I am back from my vacation and the semester is over, I can focus a bit more on my blog. How much? Who knows, heh heh. So, I figure I'll start off with a fan response entry. All you have to do is reply to my fan question in the comments. You do not need an account to leave a comment. Please be civilized and respect others.

The question is: What makes you still interested in the Robotech universe even that the whole brand has really slowed down in recent months?

My personal response: Robotech does indeed have it's up's and down's with either the official output or even the way the community is. I will always be interested in Robotech for hopefully ever. I love the Robotech TV series solely. I love the universe it creates, the characters, the stories, and all that. Yeah, you can only watch the show so many times, but having conversations about it never gets boring. One major driving force that keeps my interest is the fact that the TV series has never been fully understood for all the facts and concepts that it contains. People's interpertations of the data has always varied and no one has really attempted to create a "pure" collection of that information. It's very hard to begin with. The TV series leaves itself to personal interpertation as it is naturally vague to a degree. However, a lot of important facts are held within a few lines of dialogue here and there. This really allows Robotech to be forever discussed, anaylzed, and enjoyed. This alone has kept me a fan for years. Of course, it's that universe of Robotech that I love. However, I have never found a story to keep my interest in for as long as I have in Robotech. It's all thanks to the way Robotech was made. I just wish more fans had the same passion...

So, that's my answer. What's yours? Leave a comment to this entry with your answer. Please respect and do not criticize anyone's response. Thanks

Fan Creation: Cyclone Costume 1992

A Youtuber by the username of optimusspider has posted a home video of a real Cyclone Body Armor costume filmed in 1992. It looks like the costume is mostly made out of cardboard, and it is pretty impressive. Fan spirit of yesteryear should remain with us today. Be creative and keep Robotech alive!

Space Station Liberty Hosts Robotech Discussion

Chris Meadows aka Robotech_Master will be hosting a Robotech discussion on his live talk show podcast Space Station Liberty. This episode will be about what's been going on with Robotech lately along with fan discussion. The show will be recorded live, and will take place on Sunday, June 3rd at 5 p.m. Eastern/2 p.m. Pacific time. After Meadows completes his own discussion, Chris will allow topics from the call-in audience, and statements can also be submitted via the contact form at http://terrania.us/emailme.htm

Space Station Liberty is the live call-in talk show hosted by Chris Meadows via the TalkShoe podcasting service. The focus of these shows is the Robotech universe and fandom. Guests and audience members may call in by ordinary telephone or Voice-Over-IP and participate in the discussion, as well as share comments by text-based chat. The show can be streamed live or downloaded as an mp3 podcast after recording ends. For more information on Space Station Liberty, see http://terrania.us/liberty . For more information on TalkShoe, see http://www.talkshoe.com

We ask all Robotech fans to come join us for these once in a life time chances to speak and listen to the creators of Robotech. You can listen live or download the show later. You really should download the TalkShoe cilent and join us in the chat cilent where you can talk to other Robotech fans, ask questions, and have the choice to call in to ask your very own questions to the guests.

Sunday, June 3rd at 5 p.m. Eastern/2 p.m. Pacific time
http://www.talkshoe.com/talkshoe/web/talkCast.jsp?masterId=5988

Fan Creations: UEG continues with Awesome Screenshots

The United Earth Group project crew that are trying to produce their own fan made Robotech production, Robotech Genesis, has released some pretty awesome screenshots recently. The blueprint of the SDF-1 is extremely detailed and awesome. They have also released six screenshots of animation stills. It looks like they're really on track to something great. Check them out!

SDF-1 Blueprint: http://www.robotech.united-earth-group.com/images/zoom/RANEDR/SDF1-blueprint1.jpg

New Animation Screenshots: http://www.robotech.united-earth-group.com/component/option,com_zoom/Itemid,266/catid,10/

http://www.robotech.united-earth-group.com

Fan looking for RPG players

Someone by the username of "dead_as_dreams" is looking for Robotech RPG players to join a campaign on Fantasy Grounds. Check it out if it's any fun.

http://www.fantasygrounds.com

Original post: http://community.livejournal.com/robotech/21282.html

Fan: Robotech Smart Phone Customized

It looks like someone by the username of dodofly decided to try to deck out their PDA cellphone with Robotech sounds, videos, and more.

Robotech Shadow Chronicles RPG Delays

Well, it seems that maybe the Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles RPG Book will come in fall. However, there just doesn't seem to be a real official date yet. Palladium books is known for this and the more time they have, often the better. So, I wouldn't be concerned.

"Robotech® RPG: The Shadow Chronicles® – Fall (tentative), to be followed by sourcebooks. "

"They do report however: "Can we really get all these books out in 2007?

Probably not. Exactly how many are published will depend largely on the sales of recent releases, online products, and books released throughout the Summer.

While Palladium is doing much, much better than a year ago, we are not out of the woods nor working at full capacity.

Cash flow issues (translation: not enough money) continue to dog us, which is why the first 10 titles on the list, above, are tentative even though the manuscripts are sitting on my shelf. Likewise, there are a dozen key titles that need reprinting, but we don’t yet have the cash to print them.

February through May are always slow sales months for everyone in the RPG business. We’re hoping Summer (and Fall) sales rock, including the sale of specialty items offered only online (T-shirts, prints, greeting cards, etc.). If they sell, we can offer more product and do more reprints. The more we publish, the more money we make and the stronger we get, and that means we can publish more books. "

Read the full article here: http://www.palladiumbooks.com/press/press2007-05.html

Thanks Captain JLS

Roboblog Chronicles Episode 7.5

The Roboblog Chronicles continues with JLS responding to fan comments of episode 7.

The Roboblog Chronicles Episode 7.5: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/2007/05/roboblog-chronicles-episode-75-spots-of.html

Kevin McKeever gets Chinese Article related

A few weeks ago, Kevin McKeever needed a translator to translate the Chinese article written about Robotech during the Chinese Convention.

"In 2006, after three year’s fabrication, Shadow Chronicles, the latest episode of “Robotech”, was finished. It not only obtained a lot of appreciation from industry in Festival De Cannes, but also won the Best Animated Sci-Fi Feature of the International Horror and Sci-Fi Film Festival. This is really a huge success. Soon after the airing of the movie and the release of the DVD in North America, Golden Harmony decides to go to Hangzhou to promote it. Mr. Kevin, the representative of Shadow Chronicles’ marketing department, feels so excited when talking about his first trip to China."

Read the full article here: http://bankofkev.blog-city.com/kev_asks_for_help_and_his_readers_respond.htm

Two new Robotech.com Polls

It looks like Robotech.com has created two new Robotech polls for people to vote on and increase their points. First one is "Did you find the characters in Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles "too sexy?"" and the other is "Do you feel that anime today has become "too sexy?"" Uh yeah, not the best questions...

Sign in and vote here: http://www.robotech.com/community/poll/index.php?&PHPSESSID=60d5f1e98b9e02671cc91de871ca3f58

Captain JLS needs help on the RT CCG

Captain JLS needs your help in relation to the Robotech Collectible Card Game:

"So the other day I had an hour or so to kill and I finally cracked out my Robotech Collectible Card Game deck and tried to figure it out. However, much to my frustration, I found the included rule sheet entirely, ah, insufficient. I did a Google search to see if anyone had a clearer rule set, but I came up empty. If you have a clear diagram of play, or a fan-made FAQ, or something to help me figure this silly thing out, please e-mail me." - Captain JLS

If you can help him out, send an email to him at: jlswitzer@gmail.com

Roboblog Chronicles Episode 7

The Roboblog Chronicles continues with Episode 7. Captain JLS continues his discussion on the different versions of Robotech II: The Sentinels.

Roboblog Chronicles Episode 7: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/2007/05/roboblog-chronicles-episode-7.html

Yellow Dancer Live Concert July 1st!

Michael Bradley and Khristina K will be performing live in Long Beach, California on July 1st at The Rhythm Lounge near by Anime Expo. They will perform Robotech songs along with favorite rock tunes. So, make sure you check them out while you're in town! Michael Bradley is the singing voice of Lancer/Yellow Dancer from Robotech: The New Generation. If you haven't done so, make sure you buy a copy of his new CD Lonely Soldier Boy!

Michael's Blog
"RK Project, featuring Michael Bradley and Khristina K, will be performing adjacent to the Long Beach Convention Center during the weekend of Anime Expo in Long Beach, California. The performance will be on Sunday night, July 1...at a place called The Rhythm Lounge. The club is supposedly right down the street from the Convention, less than two minutes. We haven't even seen the place yet but here is their web address, if any of you guys want to check it out:

www.rhythm-lounge.com

Show time has yet to be determined...probably 7 or 8. There will be a cover charge for the show...wish we could do it for free, but the venue has to turn a profit. And there is a 21 or over age limit. Since this is not an official convention event, our manager took it upon himself to arrange the show...hoping to get some convention attendees to drop in. We'd all love to see you!

We're going to play all the old ROBOTECH (Lancer/Yellow Dancer) songs, including songs from ROBOTECH-THE MOVIE...some sung by Khristina K. Since we'll probably be playing at least three sets, we'll also be doing some of our favorite cover songs. The Police, U2, The Killers, Shania Twain, Avril Lavigne, Paul McCartney Led Zeppelin tunes...fairly wide range of rock music. Gonna be loud and fun!

We'd love to get as many ROBOTECH fans out there as we possibly could...so I hope some of you can make it. This will be the first time the band has performed some of these songs since Anime Expo in Anaheim a couple of years ago...so we're all real excited to do this event.

I'll probably be dropping by the ROBOTECH booth that afternoon to sign some CDs and say hello to some old friends...please drop by if you're around! I'm hoping to get Khristina K to come along for the signing thing...so, those of you who haven't met her can finally see who I've been talking about these past couple of years.

Anyway...as we get closer to the event, I'll have some more comments.

Drop me a line or an e-mail to let us know if you're going to make it or not...I'd love to hear from you!" - Michael Bradley

Reply to Michael's blog entry here: http://blog.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=blog.view&friendID=64810710&blogID=264460946&Mytoken=FAFA48BD-4816-4CF1-9A3B9FBBBE4485F473307374

Thanks Rhade!

IGN Reviews Robotech Mobile Game

It looks like I overlooked this one. IGN.com, one of the major video game reviewer sites, has reviewed Robotech: The New Generation Mobile Game that has been recently released.

"Developer Big Blue Bubble does some pretty smart stuff with Robotech, such as making sure the stages are long enough to provide some solid shooting action, but short enough for a mobile fix. The timing of the Invid craft is also nicely synced to your rate of fire. Nothing feels particularly mismatched -- as long as your ship is in the right place at the right time, you can blast an entire Invid formation and scoop up a fat combo bonus. There is also incentive to replay stages, as you unlock extra characters and Veritech while playing through the main story with Scott."

Read the full article here: http://wireless.ign.com/articles/786/786029p1.html

Fan Creation: 3D Cyclone Test

A youtuber by the username of leopazparada has created a 3D test video of a Cyclone in battloid. It's pretty short, but it's cool. Hopefully they'll develop a short video with it.

Robotech Mobile Game Released on Cingular Service

"AT&T Cingular, the largest wireless provider in the United States, now has Airborne Entertainment's new mobile game Robotech: The New Generation available for immediate download.

Customers can download the mobile game from the Cingular Mall through the following steps:

* Click Games
* Click Shop Games & Applications
* Wait for the browser to connect to Cingular's system
* Click Action/Adventure
* Click TV/Movie (or Shooters)

(The list of downloadable games might not in appear in alphabetical order, so you may need to scroll down a bit.)

Customers of other wireless providers need not worry as more carriers are on the way!"

source: http://www.robotech.com/news/viewarticle.php?id=315

Fan Creations: Enjoyable Robotech Polls

Quizfarm.com is a site that hosts user-created polls of all kinds. As one would guess, Robotech made it on there. A couple of years ago, I actually made a poll myself along with other fans. Thanks to Rhade for reminding me of the existence of these, I thought it would be of interest for people to re-discover these polls.

I think it would be fun if people will leave a comment on this entry telling us what kind of results they got on these polls:

What Robotech Alien Race Do You Belong To? (Made by me) http://quizfarm.com/test.php?q_id=153995

Which Robotech character are you most like? http://quizfarm.com/test.php?q_id=154450

Which "ROBOTECH: The Macross Saga" character are you most like?http://quizfarm.com/test.php?q_id=181828

Which Robotech Character Are You? http://quizfarm.com/test.php?q_id=125635

I would like to point out that the final results you recieve from the polls are individual percentages for each possible answer and are individually total out of 100%. Your results tell you how similar you are to each possible answer. I hope that makes some sense, enjoy!

The Roboblog Chronicles: Episode 6

Captain JLS continues his great series of Robotech videos with a discussion about Robotech II: The Sentinels. Come and learn something from the expert of Robotech comics.

The Roboblog Chronicles Episode 6: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/2007/05/roboblog-chronicles-episode-6.html

The Anime Network comes to Canada!

It seems that ADV Films' Anime Network, which is often a video on-demand service, will finally be arriving onto Canadian cable providers. Why is this somewhat exciting for Canadian fans? Robotech! Robotech should still be a part of the Anime Network service and so our series continues to spread.

Check out the full article here: http://moon-chase.blogspot.com/2007/05/breaking-news-advs-anime-network-is.html

Rightstuf.com 40% Sale of FUNimation DVDs

Rightstuf.com is having a major 40% sale of FUNimation DVDs which includes Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles. The sale is off the retail price that Rightstuf.com has listed, so this makes the DVD about 18 dollars. If it's off Rightstuf.com's price it would be a better deal. You may want to check it out just to be sure. You must use the coupon code below to get the discount as well.

Sale Information:
"From now until May 13, take 40% OFF the retail price of DVDs from FUNimation and AN Entertainment. (This includes pre-orders!)

How? Just use the following reusable coupon code when you check out through RightStuf.com:

Coupon Code: amplify
Expires: May 13, 2007 at 11:59 p.m. CDT"

Shadow Chronicles at Rightstuf.com (does not show sale price): http://www.rightstuf.com/cgi-bin/catalogmgr/5dRxu3F5tdvh0ZIrEj/browse/item/72415/4/0/0

http://www.rightstuf.com

Thanks Chris for the news

Fan-Made Robotech Audio Drama Search

A Robotech.com member named guybrush is looking for interest in a fan-made audio drama and voices for it.

"I was thinking of putting together a fanmade full cast audio drama based on Robotech. If I did so, who would be interested in doing voices?" - guybrush

If you're interested, reply here: http://www.robotech.com/community/forum/read.php?id=1729728&forumid=16

Roboblog Chronicles: Episode 5.5

As usual, Captain JLS has released his feedback episode along with explaining how and why he created his short Sentinels episode.

Check it all out here: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/2007/05/roboblog-chronicles-episode-55.html

Roboblog III: Chronicles Episode 5

Roboblog continues with Episode 5 as a fan-made episode of the Sentinels. Captain JLS made an attempt to create his own "low budget" version of Robotech II: The Sentinels Episode 6. It's pretty interesting with picture stills, music, and low voices. He spent some good time on it and it's worth a look.

Roboblog Chronicles Episode 5: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/2007/05/roboblog-chronicles-episode-5.html

Kevin McKeever in the Chinese Press

Kevin McKeever, the marketing head for Robotech at Harmony Gold, was a part of the Robotech Chinese panel during the recent convention. During the event, Kevin got to do a number of interviews for the Chinese press. He's looking for someone to translate the articles into english.

If you can help: http://bankofkev.blog-city.com/robotech_in_the_chinese_press.htm

Robotech Companion Returns

Finally, Robotech Companion, after a number of days being down, has finally been restored. It looks like my host had to redo his server from some lost. I believe everything is uploaded again and works. If you find any broken links, send me notice.

http://www.robotechcompanion.com

New Robotech.com Poll

Robotech.com has added a new poll to their web site. I believe it's based on a forum thread. The question this time is: "Which final episode from each generation was your favorite?"

Log in and vote on the new poll. We all know you want your points: http://www.robotech.com/community/poll/index.php?&PHPSESSID=09ce95d8323abbab8f79a80c30579ccf

Scifi.com Reviews Robotech Shadow Chronicles

It's been two months since Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles has been released. Sci-Fi Channel has actually decided to review the movie after all this time. Does it live up to their not so great feature movie collection? We'll see what they have to say.

"Fan reaction to Shadow Chronicles has been divided. It's the first significant completed Robotech project after years of failed, folded or flopped franchise spinoffs, so there's some reason to be happy just because it exists. But it's a sometimes shallow, sometimes confusing, sometimes redundant movie that retreads New Gen material, barely touches on or ignores most fan-favorite characters and leaves many questions (such as the ultimate fate of the SDF-3) wide open. Pro: It's a gorgeously animated movie, rich in layers and detail. Con: The ships and mecha are CGI, which annoys the purists who loved the original series' handmade look. "

Read the full article here: http://www.scifi.com/sfw/anime/sfw15674.html

Robotech Companion: Server is down

If anyone is wondering, it seems that the Robotech Companion web site's servers are down. My host seems to be completely down on all his sites. This also means my domain-based email addresses don't work either. I have no idea what's wrong and when it will be fixed. I hope pretty soon. So, keep an eye out. Luckily this news blog is on google. Too bad there's no news to report about really.

Update: It's slowly coming back. I'm hoping by tomorrow, Thursday May 3rd that my site will be back to normal.

Art of Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles Release Date

Robotech.com states that the Art of Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles Book will be released on June 15th.

"Now, all the art — both classic designs from Robotech's Japanese heritage and modern digital production techniques from The Shadow Chronicles — that went into putting Robotechnology and Protoculture on the screen has been collected into this stellar new full-color book from Stone Bridge Press. Everything fans seek in a film companion is right here:

- an inside look at the evolution of Robotech and the anime industry over three decades
- plot guides for the TV series and the movie
- in-depth character, mecha, and vessel profiles
- over 100 pages of concept art and production design
- detailed mecha and vessel statistics
- hundreds of full-color images, many never-before released
- a glossary of Robotech terms
- production commentary from director Tommy Yune
- foreword by original Robotech producer Carl Macek"

Pre-order your copy at Amazon.com for just $13.57: http://www.amazon.com/Art-Robotech-Chronicles-Tommy-Yune/dp/1933330295/ref=sr_1_4/002-1898370-3388829?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1177710600&sr=1-4

Roboblog III: Chronicles Epiosde 4.5

Captain JLS continues with Episode 4.5 to answer fans' comments from ep 4. Check it out as always: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/2007/04/roboblog-chronicles-episode-45.html

UGO's Chemisty 1001: Fantasy Substances

UGO.com created an article about fantasy substances that we all wished were real, and amazingly Protoculture made the list!

"Protoculture: Trying to nail down an exact definition of Protoculture is a bit dicey; the nearly mystical substance produced by space flowers in the Robotech universe is either a genetic modifier or a form of sentient life or a facilitator for telepathy...you know, one of those deals But one thing we do know is that it allows people to create and manipulate robotechnology, which means one thing: Giant robots. And brother, any substance that in some way makes it possible for us to possess and pilot our own giant robot is A-OK in our book. Sure, there are hallucinations and possible intergalactic war to follow but, hey...giant robots."

Everyone wants their giant robots, lol. Protoculture is so much more than that. Genetic-engineering, folding space, powering of huge spaceships, and more.

Find out what other substances made the list: http://www.ugo.com/ugo/html/article/?id=17206&sectionId=7

Thanks Darkwater

Robotech: New Generation Mobile Game Reviewed

WGWorld.com has reviewed the new Robotech: The New Generation Mobile Game for cellphones already. They seem to actually like the game enough to give it the Editor's Award.

"As you fly through the levels, the ship automatically fires so that you can solely concentrate on maneuvering to shoot down enemies, pick up power-ups and avoid attacks. To transform into the Battloid, you must pick up vials to fill up a transformation gauge, however, it need not be full in order to use. As long as you have any amount in the gauge, the Battloid can be used, but since your offensive and defensive capabilities increase when in this mode, it would be smart to save as much of the gauge as possible for when in Boss battles. Other power-ups include extra health, upgraded weapons, shields and extra ships."

Read the full review here: http://www.wgworld.com/site/article/robotech-new-generation

Robotech: New Generation Mobile Game this May!

It's taken some time, but the very first Robotech mobile game will be releasing this May 2007! If you're a Robotech fan, you're gonna wanna buy this game. It's going to be on cingular's network for sure and likely other carriers.

"The long-awaited mobile iteration of the perennial favorite anime series combines strategic behavior and character selection with classic top scrolling gameplay. Featuring 20 distinct levels, five environments and three playable VERITECH ALPHA fighter ships, Robotech: The New Generation is sure to engage the hard-core fan as well as the casual gamer."

Read the full article: http://www.robotech.com/news/viewarticle.php?id=313

Watch a preview of the game here: http://www.robotech.com/gallery/mmitem.php?id=316

Hero Factory releases New Generation CCG Deck

It's almost amazing that Hero Factory has somewhat actually completed their Collectible Card Game series by releasing decks for all three sagas. I really suggest you buy this one and the second saga deck, because these were almost not produced. Hero was about to give up renewing their license, but gave Robotech another chance. Support their CCG, even if you don't like the rules.

Hero Factory presents the New Generation deck that includes:
"Scott Bernard and his band of human freedom fighters against the Regess and the Invid horde. This kit incorporates new vessel and location cards and includes an updated playing sheet with rules and a deck for two players, all packaged in a full-color box!"

Order the New Generation CCG Deck here: http://www.robotech.com/store/viewproduct.php?id=290

For the rest of the collection: http://www.robotech.com/store/viewcategory.php?id=16

Robotech Shadow Chronicles RPG Update!

There's been some updates and news about the Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles RPG.
Here's what Palladium has to say:
"Sometimes things don’t materialize as quickly as you’d hope, and all you can do is keep working at it.

That has been the case with the Robotech® RPG license. Hammering out the final contract has had long delays for one reason or another, but we think we are finally on track. The current draft is in our hands and we hope to have a done deal soon!

Harmony Gold, USA is happy to be working with Palladium Books again, and the feeling is mutual. We can hardly wait to be doing Robotech® again.

We are tentatively shooting for an August release, but it could drop into the Fall. We will keep you posted.

We can let you in on the inside track with some of our plans for the new RPG series.

The first book will be Robotech® The Shadow Chronicles. We haven’t decided completely yet, but it may include a lot of the New Generation/Invid Invasion/Mospeada information, as Shadow Chronicles picks up where Invid Invasion leaves off.

It will be a 192-224 page “manga-sized” book. So will the subsequent supplements.

Price will be an irresistible $15.95 retail. You heard right, $15.95 because we want everybody to buy one without hesitation.

The Shadow Chronicles® RPG will probably be followed by the Macross-based sourcebook, followed by Southern Cross and new stuff.

Yes, we will be updating, correcting, and adding to the original books. These will not be reprints of our old titles.

I am also considering doing a deluxe collector’s, hardcover edition with some interior color pages, similar to what we did with Rifts® Ultimate Edition at the usual 8 1/2 x 11 format. If we did, it wouldn’t see publication until Fall or possibly early 2008. Everything is still in the planning and concept stage, so nothing is written in stone. Let us know what you think.

Summer or Fall "

source: http://www.palladiumbooks.com/press/press2007-04.html

Roboblog III: The Roboblog Chronicles Episode 4

Captain JLS continues the Roboblog Chronicles with why he believes selected New Generation characters will appear in the next Shadow Chronicles movie. There's also a little bit about how the next movie may be promoted.

Roboblog III: The Roboblog Chronicles Episode 4: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/2007/04/roboblog-chronicles-episode-4.html

Art of Shadow Chronicles Preview at A.P.E.

Stone Bridge Press will be at the Alternative Press Expo this weekend (April 21st and 22nd) in San Francisco, at Booth 427. A complete version of the forthcoming The Art of Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles will be on-hand at the Expo, along with prize drawings, glossy promo cards, and the array of books illuminating Asian culture.

If you happened to actually go and see the book, leave us some comments about it!

source: http://stonebridgepress.blogspot.com/2007/04/robotech-preview-at-ape-this-weekend.html

Space Station Liberty Interviews Jonathan Brands

Chris Meadows aka Robotech_Master will be interviewing Jonathan Brands on his live talk show podcast Space Station Liberty. Jonathan Brands is the brand manager for Robotech at Funimation; Harmony Gold's Tommy Yune will also be present. The interview will be recorded live, and will take place on Saturday, April 21th at 4 p.m. Eastern/1 p.m. Pacific time. After Meadows completes his interview, Brands will take questions from the call-in audience, and questions can also be submitted via the contact form at http://terrania.us/emailme.htm

Space Station Liberty is the live call-in talk show hosted by Chris Meadows via the TalkShoe podcasting service. The focus of these shows is the Robotech universe and fandom. Guests and audience members may call in by ordinary telephone or Voice-Over-IP and participate in the discussion, as well as share comments by text-based chat. The show can be streamed live or downloaded as an mp3 podcast after recording ends. For more information on Space Station Liberty, see http://terrania.us/liberty . For more information on TalkShoe, see http://www.talkshoe.com

We ask all Robotech fans to come join us for these once in a life time chances to speak and listen to the creators of Robotech. You can listen live or download the show later. You really should download the TalkShoe cilent and join us in the chat cilent where you can talk to other Robotech fans, ask questions, and have the choice to call in to ask your very own questions to the guests.

Saturday, April 21th at 4 p.m. Eastern/1 p.m. Pacific time
http://www.talkshoe.com/talkshoe/web/talkCast.jsp?masterId=5988

Robotech Shadow Chronicles Soundtrack on iTunes

You can now download Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles music soundtrack on Apple's iTune for the price of $9.99.

The soundtrack is 67 minutes, and features music composed by Scott Glasgow and performed by the Prague Symphony Orchestra. iTunes-purhcased tracks work in iTunes and on iPods.

iTune Store to buy (requires iTune software): http://phobos.apple.com/WebObjects/MZStore.woa/wa/viewAlbum?id=214011801&s=143441

Roboblog III: The Roboblog Chronicles Ep 3.5

You know the drill. Captain JLS responses to fan comments and questions from Episode 3 of Roboblog Chronicles.

Roboblog Chronicles Episode 3.5: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/2007/04/roboblog-chronicles-episode-35.html

Fan Creation: Destroid Legos

Yes, more legos! Another fan by the username of Ktorrek has created a Robotech Destroid out of legos. There's a little neat drawing of plans to construct one (above) and the final masterpiece out of legos. Of course, theres steps too. Ok, they're just funny steps to follow. Just check out his whole entry here: http://ktorrek.blogspot.com/2007/04/adventures-with-legos-part-1.html

Japan: Aoshima's Legioss is just Toynami's Alpha

It seems that the Legioss 1/48 transformable toy that was reported as a new mold by Aoshima appears to actually be the Toynami Masterpiece Alpha. This relates strictly to the Japanese release and Mospeada. Captain JLS reports:

This (http://toyboxdx.com/brog/?p=233) is the first time I've heard some particular details regarding the upcoming Aoshima 1/48 Legioss toys -- specifically, that they seem to have licensed the Toynami molds and are merely making their own improvements to them, most notably strengthening the joints (GOOD!). That would certainly explain the relatively short gap between their announcement earlier this month and the intended release date at the end of July. This actually makes the toys more intriguing to me; I'd love to pick one up now and do a side-by-side comparison.

Also interesting is the remark about the introduction of "new weapons" -- you mean weapons like the ones in the image Roger Harkavy sent me all those months back? Based on the description, signs point to "yes."

I ran the Yacolog article through Altavista's Babelfish (babel.altavista.com) to see if there are any other interesting details. It seems Aoshima will be showing these revised Masterpieces off at the 2007 Shizuoka Hobby Show next month, so we'll get to see the photographic evidence, the packaging, and any visual differences then.
--Jonathan

Check out his own article as well here: http://sdf5x.blogspot.com/2007/04/i-did-not-know-that.html

Robotech Goes Global Again

Kevin's big surprise was about how Robotech is going global again with new licensing deals and related. Tommy announced this during the Macek interview on Space Station Liberty. Now the details are here.:

With a franchise and top-selling animated series that spans over two decades, coupled with a resurgence of the series, Melissa Wohl, Vice President, Sales for Harmony Gold, announced today that company has officially re-launched the “Robotech” brand worldwide and as such as has already signed three new licensing and merchandising deals for the original “Robotech” animated series (85 half-hours) that debuted in 1985. Additionally, four new distribution deals for “Robotech: The Shadow Chronicles” (90-minute hi-def) recently released feature film based on the series, have been signed with more pending.

Read the full article here: http://www.robotech.com/news/viewarticle.php?id=311