I realize that not every gamer is cut out for the typical anime convention. While gaming and anime cultures are very closely related, I could see how some gamers wouldn’t find much appeal in a convention full of headbanded weirdos and $200 plastic figures. Lucky for you, Anime Matsuri isn’t your typical anime convention. Sure, there will still be those silly people with costumes running around. But there’s also something there for you there, my dear gamer. They call it Anime Matsuri’s Showdown Championships.
The above video (sexier, high-res version here) highlights some of the intense action of the 2007 event, though this year’s line up looks to be even more exciting. This international arcade fighting game tournament was a huge hit last year, and the folks at Anime Matsuri were kind enough to pass along the list of featured games for this year’s competition. Tourney classics like Marvel vs Capcom 2, Street Fighter III, Guilty Gear XX Accent Core, and Super Street Fighter 2 Turbo are joined by the freshly announced Melty Blood Act Cadenza v.B2 and yes… Tekken 6. That’s right, you may not have had a chance to get your hands on Tekken 6 yet, but you can be among the first to get your ass kicked in it!
If you’re not a championship-caliber gamer, you’ll be glad to know that AM’s Ninja Room will pack in tons of console gaming goodness and tourney action for the average gamer. And yes, Super Smash Bros. Brawl will be there. You’ll also want to check out the Planet Zero Arcade, which gives attendees full access to Japan’s hottest arcade cabinets.
Anime Matsuri takes place on March 21-23 at The Marriott Woodlands Waterway Hotel and Convention Center in The Woodlands, Texas. The fine folks at Japanator will be there to cover the event, as well as host a panel on their fine Web site.
C’mon – break your anime con virginity!
