Dot Bit Retro - My Own Crappy Game Review: A unique gaming experience with nostalgia and unique charm

"Dot Bit Retro - My Own Crappy Game": A unique short anime that combines nostalgia and modernity

"Dot Bit Retro - My Crappy Game" is a short anime that was released on the app "Anime Beans" on July 20, 2018. Although it is a short 10-episode series of 5 minutes each, it is a work that leaves a strong impression on viewers. As the original media of this anime is original to anime, the unique worldview of director Tetsuya Ishida and original author 326 (Mitsuru) is fully demonstrated. It was produced by Asura Film, and the copyright belongs to ©326/asurafilm.co.,ltd.

Story and Characters

The story of "Dot Bit Retro - My Own Kusoge" depicts the process of the main character, a boy, creating his own "kusoge". Kusoge is generally a slang term that refers to a "terrible game" or "uninteresting game", but this anime turns that concept on its head and depicts the importance of self-expression and creativity by having the main character create his own special game.

Although the protagonist's name is not specified, he is a typical otaku boy who is depicted as being absorbed in making games. His friends are also characters who have a strong interest in games and anime, and the protagonist's growth is depicted through his interactions with them. In particular, the protagonist's friend "Takashi" appears as an important character who supports him in making games.

Visuals and Music

The biggest feature of this anime is the fusion of visuals and music. It makes extensive use of pixel art and retro graphics, creating a nostalgic atmosphere reminiscent of games from the 80s and 90s. However, it also incorporates modern animation techniques, creating a unique worldview where nostalgia and newness intersect.

The music, too, ranges from retro chiptunes to modern electronic music, and together with the visual elements, it has the power to draw viewers in. In particular, the ending themes for each episode were chosen to reflect the protagonist's feelings, adding depth to the story.

Theme and Message

On the surface, "Dot Bit Retro - My Own Crappy Game" is a work about game creation, but there are deeper themes and messages hidden behind it. The process in which the protagonist creates his own "crappy game" symbolizes the importance of self-expression and creativity. It also depicts the importance of connection and understanding with others through interactions with friends.

Furthermore, this anime uses the term "kusoge" (bad game) to show that there is value in things that are generally considered "terrible." The protagonist's game creation is full of failures and setbacks, but he ultimately completes a special work that is unique to him, conveying to the audience the importance of finding "your own value."

From the director's and author's perspective

Director Tetsuya Ishida has worked on a number of unique anime works in the past, and among them, "Dot Bit Retro - My Own Crappy Game" is the work in which his individuality is most apparent. In an interview, Ishida said, "This work reflects my own feelings about game development," suggesting that he projected his own experiences and emotions onto the work.

The original author, 326 (Mitsuru), also has a deep love for games and anime, and the characters depicted from his perspective resonate with viewers. 326 stated on his blog that "this work is a homage to the games I was obsessed with as a child," and the worldview that combines nostalgia and newness can be said to have been born from his perspective.

Viewer reactions and ratings

"Dot Bit Retro - My Own Crappy Game" has been highly praised by viewers. In particular, the retro visuals and music have been highly praised, with many saying that it "feels nostalgic" and "feels new." The story and characters have also been highly praised, with comments such as "the protagonist's growth is moving" and "the portrayal of friendship really touches the heart."

On the other hand, some viewers felt that the story and character depth depicted in the short 5-minute length was not enough, with some saying, "I wish it had more episodes," or "I want to know more about the characters' backgrounds." However, overall, it can be said that this anime left a strong impression on viewers and gained many fans.

Recommendations and related works

For viewers who enjoyed "Dot Bit Retro - My Own Crappy Game", we also recommend the following works:

• Ping Pong the Animation : This film is also directed by Tetsuya Ishida and features unique visuals and deep themes. It is a coming-of-age story centered around table tennis, but it also explores the importance of friendship and self-expression.
• "Space Dandy" : A comedy anime set in space that combines a retro atmosphere with modern animation. It has many similarities with "Dot Bit Retro - My Own Crappy Game" in terms of visuals and music, so you'll enjoy it.
• Your Lie in April : A coming-of-age story with a music theme, the portrayal of the protagonist's growth and friendship is heartwarming. Like Dot Bit Retro, it portrays the importance of self-expression and creativity.

summary

"Dot Bit Retro - My Own Crappy Game" is a unique short anime that combines nostalgia and newness. The retro visuals and music, deep themes and messages, and the depiction of the protagonist's growth and friendship leave a strong impression on viewers. The unique worldview born from the perspective of director Tetsuya Ishida and original author 326 (Mitsuru) provides viewers with new emotions. Please watch this work and embark on a journey to find your own "crappy game".