Ultimate motherfuckin' Survivor Kaiji (http://www.veoh.com/videos/v136072189qJyYSr)! From the original manga by Nobuyuki Fukumoto "Gambling Apocalypse Kaiji", winner of the 1998 Kodansha Manga Award.

The author's writing in this series is pure genius. Fukumoto really has a keen grasp of human psychology and the human condition, and while his character design style may be a bit unorthodox and the medium he uses to convey his ideas nontraditional, they’re certainly not lacking in profundity. His favorite technique seems to be placing people in extreme situations in order to bring out their inner nature, to reveal the true heart of humanity by stripping away everything else and revealing the core essence of their being. The prime mechanism in he employs to accomplish that being the ephemeral gamble.

http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/6966/gamblevv1.jpg

16 episodes out so far and I've got to say, this series is awesome indeed.

Meh, it's looks alright. I'll check it out later.

This is really good, I never expected rock, papper and scissor might be turned into a game of intellect.
Thanks!

Yeah, many of the games Fukumoto invented for the series like Gentei Janken/E-Card are deceptively simplistic initially, but they're actually much more sophisticated when you analyze the full scope of the environment. Ones' initial impresison will only serve to betray them to the underlying complexity that is the true reality of the game, which most of the participants fail to realize.

More importantly, the games themselves are merely but a device to strip away the fecade and expose the true nature of man.

People that think this show is just about gambling are missing the mark.

I also highly recommend checking out his previous work, Mahjong Legend Akagi: The Genius Who Descended Into the Darkness (http://www.veoh.com/videos/v7875317xW6RqgF). While the ending is inconclusive since the manga is still ongoing, it's still an excellent series. It's a bit harder to follow due to heavy use of Japanese modern mahjong, which is a game similar to poker and rummy, but the basics of the game (http://ofb.net/~whuang/ugcs/gp/mahjong/mahjong.html) are simple to learn (you'll probably want to play the game after watching this series) and, as with Kaiji, the series is about much more than the game itself. I watched the series knowing nothing about mahjong at first and still enjoyed it. When I learned the game and re-watched it, it made it all that much better. Akagi is actually my favorite anime. I'm a big fan of the psychological drama/suspense series like these (Akagi, Kaiji, Death Note, Monster), and this one was the icing on the cake.

Watched all 16 episodes. I'm hooked. Do they air once a week?

Yeah. The show is currently being aired on Saturdays in Japan, then The-Triad (http://www.the-triad.org/) subs it and releases, usually a few days afterward. Triad is known for being the only fansub group that did Akagi, so this series was a logical pick for them. The series has been running for about 4 months now. There will be 26 episodes, so we're a little over halfway into it. There are already 2 completed Kaiji manga series and 1 in progress (of which no translation groups have take on), so I'm hoping those get animated as well.

Also check out the kick-ass soundtrack (http://www.gilheney.com/KaijiOST.rar) that just recently came out.

If you liked Kaiji, then you'll probably like it's predecessor, Akagi (http://www.veoh.com/videos/v7875317xW6RqgF). While Itou Kaiji stands in stark contrast to Akagi Shigeru, I liked this one a lot. It's good stuff.

Also this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=S3TMJHFhJPA)

Akagi (http://www.veoh.com/videos/v7875317xW6RqgF).
Might have to learn Mahjong for this one - I'm having trouble understanding most of the stuff that's happening.
I like it, though.

This (http://rapidshare.com/files/41554840/Akagi_Mahjong_Scoring_Charts.rar.html) should help a bit.

I'm on episode 3 now.

I quite like this. It avoids a lot of anime cliches; no androgynous leads, school children, robots, etc.

So far its also got the classic jap "the individual can't achieve anything, submit to the group!" thing as well.

Edited to add: http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/b/b6/24tv.jpg

I just got episodes 1 - 6, I will be telling you what I think in a short time. Stay attentive...

Might have to learn Mahjong for this one - I'm having trouble understanding most of the stuff that's happening.
I like it, though.

Also a good site (http://guide.riichi.nl/)

Ultimate motherfuckin' Survivor Kaiji (http://www.veoh.com/videos/v136072189qJyYSr)! From the original manga by Nobuyuki Fukumoto "Gambling Apocalypse Kaiji", winner of the 1998 Kodansha Manga Award.

The author's writing in this series is pure genius. Fukumoto really has a keen grasp of human psychology and the human condition, and while his character design style may be a bit unorthodox and the medium he uses to convey his ideas nontraditional, they’re certainly not lacking in profundity. His favorite technique seems to be placing people in extreme situations in order to bring out their inner nature, to reveal the true heart of humanity by stripping away everything else and revealing the core essence of their being. The prime mechanism in he employs to accomplish that being the ephemeral gamble.

http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/6966/gamblevv1.jpg

16 episodes out so far and I've got to say, this series is awesome indeed.

Dude do me a favour and list the Anime you like. Because everything you've suggested on these forums I've watched, and think is awesome. We seem to have similar taste.

http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/6966/gamblevv1.jpg


/r/ on that font pl0x.

Looooong Noses!

Looooong Noses!

Lulz

Great show.

Alright, just finished watching episode 14 and so far I think this series is fantastic. Exactly the type of stuff that keeps me intrigued throughout a show.

The gambling, and strategies are fun to watch ;P

Dude do me a favour and list the Anime you like. Because everything you've suggested on these forums I've watched, and think is awesome. We seem to have similar taste.

Akagi
Kaiji
Death Note
Monster
Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
Gankutsuoh
Ninja Scroll
Berserk
Grappler Baki
Gungrave
Samurai Champloo
Cowboy Bebop
Hellsing Ultimate OVA
Seirei no Moribito (Guardian of the Sacred Spirit)
Toki wo Kakeru Shoujo (The Girl Who Leapt Through Time)
Fullmetal Alchemist
Claymore
Black Lagoon
Code Geass
Hajime no Ippo
Trigun
Sayonara Zetsubou Sensei
Vampire Hunter D
Golgo 13: The Professional
Space Adventure Cobra
Crying Freeman
Fist of the North Star
Angel Cop
Riding Bean

/r/ on that font pl0x.

Shinigami font (http://main.deathgod.org/download/)

Second one down.

Deathnote was so much better with the cliffhangers.

But this, wow, it changed the way I see the world.

Wow.

I don't normally watch anime; but this is something else!

If you don't like the way the characters are drawn, well, neither do I. But just watch the first 2 - 3 episodes, you won't be able to stop after that.

The art in the manga is even worse. The animation studio actually improved on it.

Fukumoto has a rather odd style of art (which he himself calls 'terrible' :p), but that's really secondary as this is not a series one watches for the character art. The fact that his works have won awards and are best-sellers in spite of that is testament to the point - you can't draw good writing.

Watched the first 11 episodes.. Heh, I bet the idea that most people got from it was "don't trust anyone, it's either kill or get killed". The idea I got from it was "there are some good people around (Kaiji), don't let the assholes take the initiative, take action yourself - and don't put your destiny in the hands of people that haven't proven themselves".

I really like the character development through the series, really keeps you interested.

.;:'*F

.;:'*A

.;:'*G

Crap, I wish I could have gotten exo5 with a C-C-C-COMBO BREAKER!!!!

-NS

Ultimate motherfuckin' Survivor Kaiji (http://www.veoh.com/videos/v136072189qJyYSr)! From the original manga by Nobuyuki Fukumoto "Gambling Apocalypse Kaiji", winner of the 1998 Kodansha Manga Award.

The author's writing in this series is pure genius. Fukumoto really has a keen grasp of human psychology and the human condition, and while his character design style may be a bit unorthodox and the medium he uses to convey his ideas nontraditional, they’re certainly not lacking in profundity. His favorite technique seems to be placing people in extreme situations in order to bring out their inner nature, to reveal the true heart of humanity by stripping away everything else and revealing the core essence of their being. The prime mechanism in he employs to accomplish that being the ephemeral gamble.

http://img297.imageshack.us/img297/6966/gamblevv1.jpg

16 episodes out so far and I've got to say, this series is awesome indeed.

Too bad I'm not in university so i can use fancy language.

Too bad I'm not in university...

Neither am I.

...so i can use fancy language.

A fancy language like modern english.... Okay.

What about a dictionary? You can at least manage that much, right?

Of the languages, english is hardly fancy in particular.

We now return you to your regularly scheduled bong.

I like the way they are drawn.
Finished watching Akagi now, it ended a bit oddly.
The anime was a lot less dark than Kaiji, I did enjoy it though.

Akagi ends inconclusively since the manga is still ongoing. They might come back at a later point and make a second season/some OVAs. If so, then we have a possibility of seeing the sequel, "Ten"

The anime was a lot less dark than Kaiji, I did enjoy it though.

Akagi is dark as hell, it's just a slightly different approach.

Also, check out the 2 subbed episodes of it's predecessor, Legendary Gambler Tetsuya. [ 1 (http://www.crunchyroll.com/showmedia?id=56097) | 2 (http://www.crunchyroll.com/showmedia?id=195448) ].

Also check out the kick-ass soundtrack (http://www.gilheney.com/KaijiOST.rar) that just recently came out.

That's one thing the Japanese do best - soundtracks. Be it games, or anime, or whatever. Really atmospheric, appropriate and strong. Awesome stuff.

According to http://www.truepariah.net/, two live action movies based on the Akagi manga were released back in 1997.

Anyone know if they've been subbed and uploaded anywhere? I did a quick search and can't find shit.

There's a raw for the first movie on TPB, but it's rather mediocre. The anime is way better.

i havent watched anime since DBZ, yet I love this series. Thanks for sharing

just watched all 16 episodes on that website. Amazing show. Can't wait to see what happens with E Card. I love the psychology of the series, just cant stop watching...

just watched all 16 episodes on that website. Amazing show. Can't wait to see what happens with E Card. I love the psychology of the series, just cant stop watching...

Yeah, what sucks is I was looking for a new Anime to watch...I find this, and now I am looking for a new Anime to watch because this is on 16!!

Lord...why must I be impatient? Psychological animes like this and Death Note are very entertaining to me :P

You can also check out Liar Game (http://www.mysoju.com/liar-game), based on the manga of the same name.

It's a live-action J-drama, but it's along similar lines as Kaiji. I didn't care much for Kanzaki, the main character. Akiyama was cool as fuck though. The series is pretty neat.

You can also check out Liar Game (http://www.mysoju.com/liar-game), based on the manga of the same name.

It's a live-action J-drama, but it's along similar lines as Kaiji. I didn't care much for Kanzaki, the main character. Akiyama was cool as fuck though. The series is pretty neat.

I am a sucker for anything of this genre. I love the Japanese.

Now I'll never finish my English essay :(.

The Triad have just released ep. 17.

Drill drill drill....

Episode 18 is out.

Tonegawa is a fucking madman. This series excels exceptionally well at conveying the emotion of the situation. The illustration of the drill penetrating the eardrum made me cringe, and that's an extremely hard reaction to get out of me.

The illustration of the drill penetrating the eardrum made me cringe, and that's an extremely hard reaction to get out of me.

This. I was surprised as well.

I still liked the Espoir part the most.

*Zawa zawa zawa zawa!*

Does anyone know what the ending song to Akagi is called?
Not the one by Maximum the Hormone that they use in the first episodes, but the one they use later on.

If I was Kaiji, I would've bet 3cm, my other ear, my left eye and Tonegawa's arms all on the first hand.

You can also check out Liar Game (http://www.mysoju.com/liar-game), based on the manga of the same name.

It's a live-action J-drama, but it's along similar lines as Kaiji. I didn't care much for Kanzaki, the main character. Akiyama was cool as fuck though. The series is pretty neat.

Live action, BLAH! :P

Drill drill drill....

Episode 18 is out.

Tonegawa is a fucking madman. This series excels exceptionally well at conveying the emotion of the situation. The illustration of the drill penetrating the eardrum made me cringe, and that's an extremely hard reaction to get out of me.

Lol yeah, I just wish like all shows they could cut out so many explanations to catch up the slow...

Does anyone know what the ending song to Akagi is called?
Not the one by Maximum the Hormone that they use in the first episodes, but the one they use later on.

S.T.S. by The Animals. (http://downloads.khinsider.com/game-soundtracks/album/mahjong-legend-akagi-original-soundtrack/35-s.t.s.mp3)

"Silento this side."

Bad ass Fukumoto MADs:

Akagi - Red (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bUJy8vgI_z0)

Akagi + Kaiji TANK (http://youtube.com/watch?v=S3TMJHFhJPA)

Tenhou Toppa Akagi (http://youtube.com/watch?v=L3Uc4tM48Lc)

Another cool work in the psychological thriller/suspense genre to check out is this movie called Mind Hunters. I thought it was pretty cool, though it's not anime.

Alright, I watched 19 and it is getting good. I hope that Tonegawa gets a big, "FUCK YOU!" in the end :P

Episode 19 was great. Tonegawa is going to get owned.

I think Kaiji is just paranoid, besides the next challenge will probably be the same except the drill goes into his dick. :(

But is tonegawa really cheating?

I believe Tonegawa is, I think when he said he was starting to "feel" Kaiji's pulse it might of been a hint. Perhaps the drill mounted on his ear is monitoring it. But I wouldn't doubt that he also has the ability to read into peoples gestures at all. If Kaiji wins I wonder what kind of shit he'll make Tonegawa do other than apologize on his knees.

You can also check out Liar Game (http://www.mysoju.com/liar-game), based on the manga of the same name.

It's a live-action J-drama, but it's along similar lines as Kaiji. I didn't care much for Kanzaki, the main character. Akiyama was cool as fuck though. The series is pretty neat.

Just saw this show. It was far better than I expected. Starts out a bit slowly, but the last 2 episodes were epic.

I believe Tonegawa is, I think when he said he was starting to "feel" Kaiji's pulse it might of been a hint. Perhaps the drill mounted on his ear is monitoring it. But I wouldn't doubt that he also has the ability to read into peoples gestures at all. If Kaiji wins I wonder what kind of shit he'll make Tonegawa do other than apologize on his knees.

that, or he's just looking at how long Kaiji takes to decide what card to use...

that, or he's just looking at how long Kaiji takes to decide what card to use...

The show has been going to shit since the end of rock-paper-scissors, and now with the episodes 19/20 it has officially gone to shit.

What the hell are you talking about? Ep. 20 owned.

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/4778/gamblelp2.jpg

Just saw this show. It was far better than I expected. Starts out a bit slowly, but the last 2 episodes were epic.

What I love about these series' is the ability of some of these guys to actually figure out how to gain an advantage, and pull some awesome plan straight out of their ass.

<spoiler>
Like on the 'minority voting' game. I was all "that's pretty amazing" when that guy outlines his plan to form a team to make sure at least one of them gets through. And at the end, when that other guy says how he formed three teams with a false name that virtually guranteed him victory, I was in so much awe.
</spoiler>

I guess that's why I'm addicted to this genre.

Although Kaiji is getting kind of boring now. I've only continued watching this far on the strength of the Espoir segment.

What the hell are you talking about? Ep. 20 owned.

http://img244.imageshack.us/img244/4778/gamblelp2.jpg

Compared to Espoir, it was bullshit. I mean, Kaiji ****** *** his own ***, with Tonegawa suddenly becoming a retard? Come on. Kaiji could just as well get out of the game, guaranteed, and then sell his kidney or something.

What I love about these series' is the ability of some of these guys to actually figure out how to gain an advantage, and pull some awesome plan straight out of their ass.

<spoiler>
Like on the 'minority voting' game. I was all "that's pretty amazing" when that guy outlines his plan to form a team to make sure at least one of them gets through. And at the end, when that other guy says how he formed three teams with a false name that virtually guranteed him victory, I was in so much awe.
</spoiler>

I guess that's why I'm addicted to this genre.

Although Kaiji is getting kind of boring now. I've only continued watching this far on the strength of the Espoir segment.

Boring how? It seems you are more fixated on "strategy" then what the show is actually about...

The ability to conquer fear and to see past your own insecurities to win back your own life. THAT is epic, THAT is what we should be talking about, and THAT is why episode 20 was fucking awesome. The arrogance of Tonegawa and the chairman. To be bested by someone so inferior, a slave. I am guessing Dark_Magneto is the only one appreciating all the symbolism here.

Compared to Espoir, it was bullshit. I mean, Kaiji ****** *** his own ***, with Tonegawa suddenly becoming a retard? Come on. Kaiji could just as well get out of the game, guaranteed, and then sell his kidney or something.

Sell his kidney to who? You realize when he leaves this place he is basically going out with the money he came in with, which was nothing.

Tonegawa didn't become a retard either, simply he had a mishap in judgment thinking that Kaiji is like every other man he has seen in E card. Relying solely on his watch with fallible information, instead of his own instincts. That is arrogance. That is what cost him his humiliation and why the chairman's comments rang so true.

Tonegawa is a pro at analyzing people as the Brave Men Road arc clearly demonstrated, but he was just relying too much on his gimmick since he was told by the chairman to deliver an absolute victory and he underestimated Kaiji.

Boring how? It seems you are more fixated on "strategy" then what the show is actually about...

I couldn't give less of a shit what you think the show is 'actually about'.

I watch these programs to be entertained by what I find interesting, as does anyone. What I happen to find interesting is the strategy. How someone can turn the tables on an impossible situation with a stroke of genius.

It's why I loved Death Note, the Liar Game, Akagi to a degree and the Espoir arc. The 'human derby' was a complete crock of shit, and this E card thing... well I'm only on episode 28, so I can't really comment. Although looking at the replies in this thread it seems that something awesome does happen.

I couldn't give less of a shit what you think the show is 'actually about'.

I watch these programs to be entertained by what I find interesting, as does anyone. What I happen to find interesting is the strategy. How someone can turn the tables on an impossible situation with a stroke of genius.

It's why I loved Death Note, the Liar Game, Akagi to a degree and the Espoir arc. The 'human derby' was a complete crock of shit, and this E card thing... well I'm only on episode 28, so I can't really comment. Although looking at the replies in this thread it seems that something awesome does happen.

Only on episode 28? The show is currently on episode 20...

As for me telling you what the show is about? You yourself just said you only fixate on what entertains you, this means ignoring the obvious symbolism and traditional moral issues placed throughout Japanese Anime. I mean shit, are you trying to come off like a complete retard, or is that just your shtick?

I liked the human derby the most, especially the last part where everyone but Kaiji ended up dying.
It had a lot of good stuff in it, especially the narrating.

Only on episode 28? The show is currently on episode 20...

As for me telling you what the show is about? You yourself just said you only fixate on what entertains you, this means ignoring the obvious symbolism and traditional moral issues placed throughout Japanese Anime. I mean shit, are you trying to come off like a complete retard, or is that just your shtick?

You and I both know I meant 18. Pointing out typos doesn't make your point any stronger.

And because I don't find 'symbolism and traditional moral issues' more interesting than strategy and lateral thinking, that makes me a retard?
All this boils down to is that we have differing opinions on what's interesting or not in anime. I'm not criticising your opinion; I have no problem with you liking something different, so why are you criticising mine? I could say that I find the artwork and character animation interesting, and the story irrelevant. Would that make me a retard too?

Of course though, I'm talking to CarbonB and should probably have expected this reaction.

You and I both know I meant 18. Pointing out typos doesn't make your point any stronger.

Lol, DID I!?!?! DID I?!?!


And because I don't find 'symbolism and traditional moral issues' more interesting than strategy and lateral thinking, that makes me a retard?
All this boils down to is that we have differing opinions on what's interesting or not in anime. I'm not criticising your opinion; I have no problem with you liking something different, so why are you criticising mine? I could say that I find the artwork and character animation interesting, and the story irrelevant. Would that make me a retard too?

Of course though, I'm talking to CarbonB and should probably have expected this reaction.

Yes, you are allowed to watch Anime for anything you deem fit. If you want to download 400 episodes of Anime just to look at some tits, that's cool, that is your business.

However, this discussion is about the entirety of the show. Although yes the strategic point of view is what drives the show, that doesn't mean it solely encompasses everything. Which is why that is only a surface level topic, just talking about some of the strategy behind the games. That is all I was pointing out. I was dumbfounded by the fact that you only found the strategic part interesting and held no value in the obvious depths of emotion this Anime can churn up.

Fukumoto's stories are first and foremost about the nature of man. The gambling and strategy are the delivery mechanisms ans symbolism employed in which to to portray the drama. Personally, I enjoy both the deep insights into human behavior and metaphors as well as the tactics and strategies employed in specific gambling scenarios.

http://www.postimage.org/aVxNRTS-4bf322db36aab8c4d96d2f7dc16adb62.png

Another series I've been watching recently is Gambling Legend Tetsuya. It's an older series that came out several years before Akagi and deals more with the seedy underworld of mahjong and the game in particular, but it's pretty good. It's currently being subbed by k-profiler (http://k-profiler.com/).

Fukumoto's stories are first and foremost about the nature of man. The gambling and strategy are the delivery mechanisms ans symbolism employed in which to to portray the drama. Personally, I enjoy both the deep insights into human behavior and metaphors as well as the tactics and strategies employed in specific gambling scenarios.

http://www.postimage.org/aVxNRTS-4bf322db36aab8c4d96d2f7dc16adb62.png

Another series I've been watching recently is Gambling Legend Tetsuya. It's an older series that came out several years before Akagi and deals more with the seedy underworld of mahjong and the game in particular, but it's pretty good. It's currently being subbed by k-profiler (http://k-profiler.com/).

I watched these two Kung-Fu majhong movies and they were fucking funny as all hell. I will have to look them up and tell you :P That looks good too, I'll check it out.

Kaiji 21 is out.

As usual, Fukumoto's character dialogue is top-notch and enlightening.

http://www.postimage.org/aV1pecSA-4bf322db36aab8c4d96d2f7dc16adb62.jpg

According to Triad, next episode is supposed to be epic win.

22 is out, and thus concludes the E Card arc.

It greatly exceeded my expectations for this episode. Tons of character development in this ep. Kaiji becomes more Akagi-like and OMGWTFBBQ does Tonegawa ever prove he is GAR (http://www.urbandictionary.com/define.php?term=gar)!

SPOILERS!

The whole "genuine apology" barbecue thing was crazy!

http://www.postimage.org/aV1HgDF0-4bf322db36aab8c4d96d2f7dc16adb62.gif

Alright, watched 21 and 22 and I must say that 21 was more emotionally climactic when he won, and 22 seemed to be more of a setup for upcoming episodes.

Crazy times at the BBQ pit! I do NOT think I would do that, I probably would of escaped after trying to kill a few people.

just finished the espoir part good series so far. nice find.

Alright, watched 21 and 22 and I must say that 21 was more emotionally climactic when he won, and 22 seemed to be more of a setup for upcoming episodes.

Crazy times at the BBQ pit! I do NOT think I would do that, I probably would of escaped after trying to kill a few people.

Yep, the series have suddenly become good again.

I see what Kaiji's strategy was, but I'm surprised that Tonegawa played like that. I mean, if I was him, I would've made the Emperor my first card - just because it's such a stupid move. Tonegawa got too pressured by the high cost of the game, which I didn't expect of guy as good as him.

Good to see Kaiji finally becoming almost as bad as Akagi. I like it.

I see what Kaiji's strategy was, but I'm surprised that Tonegawa played like that. I mean, if I was him, I would've made the Emperor my first card - just because it's such a stupid move.

That's the reason he didn't play it. He thought Kaiji was taunting him into getting impatient and playing it as a first card, basically turning the first dealing into a coin flip. After thinking about it for a second, there's no way he'd play it first. He'd wait to see if Kaiji was bluffing or not since Kaiji could trip over himself by playing the slave, whereas the Emperor doesn't have to worry. Then there was the whole deal with the blood marks on the card, which caused even further hesitation and made the Emperor be reserved for later rounds. That was indeed a fine play by Kaiji.

Fukumoto's writing skills and ability to dramatize are godly. He could make a game of UNO gripping and intense.

http://img112.imageshack.us/img112/1064/1203289676182vn1.jpg

DESPAIR! KAIJI GETS REVERSED! HE DOESNT HAVE ANY MORE REDS AND HAS TO TRUST IN THE DECK. EVERY CARD IN HIS HAND IS A STEP TOWARDS DEATH!

Or Jenga.

http://img214.imageshack.us/img214/1870/1205031889283nj8.jpg

The further towards the bottom one draws, the greater the chances of the structure collapsing are. The same goes for draws from the middle when an edge block is drawn, or draws from the edge when the middle block has been drawn. In essence, you must be mindful of the center of gravity to avoid collapsing the tower.

But in doing so you leave the tower considerable stability for the opponent to work with, which will land you back in the same situation once they've drawn, with gradually decreasing chances of success.

This mean the most assured strategy is place your life on the line, and make the riskiest moves leaving the opponent no chance to counter.

It's a kill or be killed strategy which holds no quarter for cowards. The first to withdraw will buried beneath the rubble of their own cowardice.

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/3/34/Jenga.gif

"NOOOOOOOO!" screamed Kaiji. It was all over. He was crushed beneath that fatal block that he forgot to take care of. His plan of forcing it onto his opponent failed and came back around to destroy him.

"I failed." sobbed Kaiji.

"It's not that your plan failed." replied Akagi. "It was a good plan. Excellent, in fact. The only flaw is that you didn't take enough risk. If your draws aren't bold enough, you won't be able to force your oppnent into a corner".

If you want to classify tye types of blocks in Jenga, there are safe blocks and dangerous blocks. But in reality, it's not that simple. Sometimes you can't tell how much a block will compromise the structure. These blocks are 'noise'. So what I did was lightly bump the tower and noticed it's directional tendency - the points at which the weight were being distributed while it swayed. Thus, the "noise" become more clear to me. I then took the riskiest block that would not result in collapse."

"But that's insane!" exclaimed Kaiji. "If you made the slightest mistake in judging the structural integrity, the entire thing would have fallen! You would have died!"

"Exactly" replied Akagi. "And that insanity is precisely what won me the game. Each time I bumped the structure to test where the riskiest block I could possibly take was, it compromised the structure slightly, making it that much harder on you. You took safe block after safe block, trying to force the block of death on me. But what you failed to realize is I was prepared for death with every draw.

So you see, you'll only survive if you die, Kaiji-san. Let's go again, double or nothing."

That's the reason he didn't play it. He thought Kaiji was taunting him into getting impatient and playing it as a first card, basically turning the first dealing into a coin flip. After thinking about it for a second, there's no way he'd play it first. He'd wait to see if Kaiji was bluffing or not since Kaiji could trip over himself by playing the slave, whereas the Emperor doesn't have to worry. Then there was the whole deal with the blood marks on the card, which caused even further hesitation and made the Emperor be reserved for later rounds. That was indeed a fine play by Kaiji.


Exactly! The problem is, that the moves that he made made sense. But that's the problem - Tonegawa was thinking about his own moves, as opposed to the moves of his opponent. Kaiji understood the way of thinking of his opponent, and thus won. Tonegawa, on the other hand, acted exactly like he was expected to act - the correct way for him to play would've been to make the moves that completely defy logic and reason.

Great episode, can't wait for the next ones.

Exactly! The problem is, that the moves that he made made sense. But that's the problem - Tonegawa was thinking about his own moves, as opposed to the moves of his opponent. Kaiji understood the way of thinking of his opponent, and thus won. Tonegawa, on the other hand, acted exactly like he was expected to act - the correct way for him to play would've been to make the moves that completely defy logic and reason.

Great episode, can't wait for the next ones.

You understand though why that strategy would never be used by someone like Tonegawa right?

You understand though why that strategy would never be used by someone like Tonegawa right?

Not really.. I think he just lost his calmness because of the pressure and made the mistake that Kaiji was sure he'd make. Had he remained calm, he would've realised that Kaiji would not have made that bet without some plan in mind. Playing the emperor in the first few rounds when everything seemed fair would've been his best bet, since obviously Kaiji expected to get him into some trap that he needed time to set up.

One thing I've learned from Akagi and Kaiji, you see, is that you shouldn't let the high stakes affect your judgement.

The trap was that he noticed the trap. It was a double trap.

He noticed the fact that Kaiji switched a card out and then bled on them. He thought that he swapped out the slave for a citizen and marked 2 citizens, when he did exactly what should have happened if the whole bleeding on cards/residual blood thing was a mere accident and he had no strategy.

The trap was that he noticed the trap. It was a double trap.

He noticed the fact that Kaiji switched a card out and then bled on them. He thought that he swapped out the slave for a citizen and marked 2 citizens, when he did exactly what should have happened if the whole bleeding on cards/residual blood thing was a mere accident and he had no strategy.

Lol, I got that. That's why I'm saying that

a). He underestimated Kaiji
b). The right move would've been to stay calm, and play his own game without paying attention to the blood. Because what he did, was reduce his chances from at least 66% (play any of the first 3 cards) to 50% (either the blood was a trap, or it wasn't (double trap)).

Anyway, not a big deal. Awesome show.

Lol, I got that. That's why I'm saying that

a). He underestimated Kaiji
b). The right move would've been to stay calm, and play his own game without paying attention to the blood. Because what he did, was reduce his chances from at least 66% (play any of the first 3 cards) to 50% (either the blood was a trap, or it wasn't (double trap)).

Anyway, not a big deal. Awesome show.

I think the point was that he did, and would underestimate Kaiji.
After all he's built his whole life trampling on trash like Kaiji, how he could he not see through anything Kaiji tries to do?
The fact that he wasn't able to see Kaiji as first-rate even after being beaten by him once, is the reason Tonegawa lost. His own pride wouldn't allow it.

Lol, I got that. That's why I'm saying that

a). He underestimated Kaiji
b). The right move would've been to stay calm, and play his own game without paying attention to the blood. Because what he did, was reduce his chances from at least 66% (play any of the first 3 cards) to 50% (either the blood was a trap, or it wasn't (double trap)).

Anyway, not a big deal. Awesome show.

Not even the fact that he underestimated Kaiji, that was only one facet to the trap. It was also the fact that Tonegawa saw Kaiji as a snake. Assuming he would do something as devious as switching the cards. Which he didn't...

The plan was more than just one fold, and Tonegawa is too calculated of a player to make a rash decision like opening with the Emperor.

"I'll win and kill this kid!

http://www.postimage.org/aVfPyxS-4bf322db36aab8c4d96d2f7dc16adb62.gif

And survive!

I will!

There's nothing to fear!

I can win if I observe his mental tremors and measure his shades of gray!

I can use the Emperor when I deal second in the second or fourth rounds. Or I could continue to play Citizens and hope he kills himself off by dealing the Slave. That is the best way to win. There's no need to end the match in the first round.

No!

That's why I should deal it in the first round!

An ambush attack through his blind spot on a side route! I should use it in the first.

This will..."

If only he could deal the Emperor here, gambles would be so much easier!

No...

Matters are not that simple!

Lol, precisely. Having balls in a life or death gamble is more than rare.

Where is episode 23? Should have been out 3 days ago this is bs

Where is episode 23? Should have been out 3 days ago this is bs

Are you one of them people screaming "TRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADDDDD!!" in their comments?

Where is episode 23? Should have been out 3 days ago this is bs

I bet 23 win't come out for another week or so, and it then 24 will come a few days after. That seems to be the pattern with triad.

I bet 23 win't come out for another week or so, and it then 24 will come a few days after. That seems to be the pattern with triad.

They said it won't be released till September.

They said that several weeks back as a troll.

Are you one of them people screaming "TRRRRRIIIIIIIIIIAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAADDDDD!!" in their comments?

nope its not me

Episode 23 is out.

That was fucking retarded what if they open the side of the Kleenex box with the winning slip? Fucking retarded why doesn't he just leave and why would the chairman want to have a boring lottery draw like that it's pointless.

Yeah, his Tissue Box Raffle plan has so many holes it's ridiculous.

The blood loss is getting to him.

That was fucking retarded what if they open the side of the Kleenex box with the winning slip? Fucking retarded why doesn't he just leave and why would the chairman want to have a boring lottery draw like that it's pointless.

Trust me, I can easily see this explanation coming back as a ploy to entrap the Chairman.

Yeah, his Tissue Box Raffle plan has so many holes it's ridiculous.

The blood loss is getting to him.

The blood loss is getting to him, but... :P

Trust me, I can easily see this explanation coming back as a ploy to entrap the Chairman.



The blood loss is getting to him, but... :P

I think you're being overly protective of Kaiji at times :p

Trust me, I can easily see this explanation coming back as a ploy to entrap the Chairman.

Hah.

Let's just say that the Chairman is a bit more crafty than most people would suspect.

I think you're being overly protective of Kaiji at times :p

Lol, it was optimistic at best :P

Hah.

Let's just say that the Chairman is a bit more crafty than most people would suspect.

Oh definitely, I mean who could even come up with the idea of kneeling on a burning plate of steel?

I am now waiting for 24, since 23 really didn't do or say much...just set up episode 24.

Here's the device for the TBR gamble:

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/6972/rafflebt3.jpg

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/6898/tissueboxrafflede6.jpg

Here's the device for the TBR gamble:

http://img516.imageshack.us/img516/6972/rafflebt3.jpg

http://img525.imageshack.us/img525/6898/tissueboxrafflede6.jpg

What is it about the Japanese and cutting off appendages?

Ep 24 is out at www.the-triad.org
Downloading - I hope the Tissue Box game will be a good one.

Edit:
4 fingers seems a bit little for 80 million. He should've tried betting 5 fingers right away to keep some money in his pockets.
Seems like the gamble is finally getting started - now we just have to wait for episode 25.

Now how the hell in good conscience good you bet all five of your fingers? Fuuuuuck that! Four though? Cake walk...

By the way, I tried to play E-Card with 3 different people a few days back. And.. I won 3 times (I caught their Emperor with my slave 2 times on average, while they never caught mine).

It's a great game indeed, and it does take some skill, even if you play with nothing at stake.

By the way, I tried to play E-Card with 3 different people a few days back. And.. I won 3 times (I caught their Emperor with my slave 2 times on average, while they never caught mine).

It's a great game indeed, and it does take some skill, even if you play with nothing at stake.

Lame, put a punch to the jaw as a wager.

Lame, put a punch to the jaw as a wager.

Good idea :D

The point is that it is not completely random. A person who watched Kaiji and knows a bit about the psychology behind the game is more likely to win against an average person.

Good idea :D

The point is that it is not completely random. A person who watched Kaiji and knows a bit about the psychology behind the game is more likely to win against an average person.

Obviously it's not entirely random. It is however very different when you're playing no stakes/low stakes, since the humans act differently when their life's on the line - or something almost equally important.
I'll have to try playing it with some of my friends - it could be fun. I doubt any of them will agree to bet their fingers though.

Good idea :D

The point is that it is not completely random. A person who watched Kaiji and knows a bit about the psychology behind the game is more likely to win against an average person.

The point of the game was to test the character of the individual by putting them at their most fearful, the risk of losing their lives. The chance at facing death. Too bad you are in school, but something else needs to be at stake...

Obviously it's not entirely random. It is however very different when you're playing no stakes/low stakes, since the humans act differently when their life's on the line - or something almost equally important.
I'll have to try playing it with some of my friends - it could be fun. I doubt any of them will agree to bet their fingers though.

It would have to be a device rigged up, like a tazer on your side, and you would wager how many seconds it was turned on.

we don't need your clothes or to look good

http://www.postimage.org/Pq1NDlGA-4bf322db36aab8c4d96d2f7dc16adb62.jpg

Oh man, this guy's a bastard.

I see what he did there.

http://www.postimage.org/Pq1NDlGA-4bf322db36aab8c4d96d2f7dc16adb62.jpg

Oh man, this guy's a bastard.

I see what he did there.


Kaiji's probably going to lose his fingers.

Yep.

Sun Tsu once said, "If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.". Akagi never loses because he knows both, Kaiji won against Tonegawa because he knew enough about him to know he was first rate and would notice the marks on the cards, but he doesn't know hardly anything about the Chairman. Hell, he doesn't even know his name yet.

Remember the Chairman's stipulation that they wouldn't accept the lot if it were crumpled up, as it could be hidden? I think the chairman either crumpled the winning lot after Kaiji took his hand off of it or the fake lot on the side and then did something to the existing lot whereby he could identify it by touch. He deliberately drew a blank lot in the beginning. He wouldn't draw it on the first draw in order to give a thin illusion of fairness. He's acting like he's suprised that he didn't draw it, being a "king" and all, while at the same time creating an extremely tense atmosphere before revealing the lot that he drew it on the first take in order to put pressure on Kaiji and bask in his despair.

He's the type of person that believes death shouldn't be rushed - one should savor it like a fine wine and enoy it's aroma. He wouldn't finish him off in 1 shot. What he's doing now is just wringing every ounce of despair out of Kaiji that he can get before giving him the chop, enjoying him struggle at the end of a thin thread of hope, savoring the moment right before he cuts it and sends Kaiji falling straight to hell.

Kaiji commented that the Chairman was just fucking with him on the first draw, but he missed the mark. The Chairman was just setting the stage for his next draw, which will be where he pulls the winning lot.

"A second time wouldn't be good for you. You shouldn't let Kings like myself draw twice. If you give me a second chance, I wll draw it whether I want to or not!"

With this next draw, he will take Kaiji's fingers, his 20 million he had to cut his own ear off to gain, supply credit to the illusion he crafted that kings have super gambling powers over commoners as if the heavens themselves favor them, and plunge Kaiji into ultimate despair since he couldn't redeem himself or any of his fallen friends from the brave men road. The only thing Kaiji gains from gambling in the end is pain and more despair.

http://www.postimage.org/Pq1QLSUi-4bf322db36aab8c4d96d2f7dc16adb62.gif

That will be the end until we get a second season a couple years from now.

The next episode, Afterglow, is referring to the Chairman.

Those are my predictions.

Bored old rich men sure do have some interesting hobbies, don't they? :D

Certainly. I'm eager to see what the second season(if there's going to be one) will bring us.

I am apparently the only one not watching this great series. :(

-NS

Yep.

Sun Tsu once said, "If you know the enemy and know yourself, you need not fear the result of a hundred battles. If you know yourself but not the enemy, for every victory gained you will also suffer a defeat. If you know neither the enemy nor yourself, you will succumb in every battle.". Akagi never loses because he knows both, Kaiji won against Tonegawa because he knew enough about him to know he was first rate and would notice the marks on the cards, but he doesn't know hardly anything about the Chairman. Hell, he doesn't even know his name yet.

Remember the Chairman's stipulation that they wouldn't accept the lot if it were crumpled up, as it could be hidden? I think the chairman either crumpled the winning lot after Kaiji took his hand off of it or the fake lot on the side and then did something to the existing lot whereby he could identify it by touch. He deliberately drew a blank lot in the beginning. He wouldn't draw it on the first draw in order to give a thin illusion of fairness. He's acting like he's suprised that he didn't draw it, being a "king" and all, while at the same time creating an extremely tense atmosphere before revealing the lot that he drew it on the first take in order to put pressure on Kaiji and bask in his despair.

He's the type of person that believes death shouldn't be rushed - one should savor it like a fine wine and enoy it's aroma. He wouldn't finish him off in 1 shot. What he's doing now is just wringing every ounce of despair out of Kaiji that he can get before giving him the chop, enjoying him struggle at the end of a thin thread of hope, savoring the moment right before he cuts it and sends Kaiji falling straight to hell.

Kaiji commented that the Chairman was just fucking with him on the first draw, but he missed the mark. The Chairman was just setting the stage for his next draw, which will be where he pulls the winning lot.

"A second time wouldn't be good for you. You shouldn't let Kings like myself draw twice. If you give me a second chance, I wll draw it whether I want to or not!"

With this next draw, he will take Kaiji's fingers, his 20 million he had to cut his own ear off to gain, supply credit to the illusion he crafted that kings have super gambling powers over commoners as if the heavens themselves favor them, and plunge Kaiji into ultimate despair since he couldn't redeem himself or any of his fallen friends from the brave men road. The only thing Kaiji gains from gambling in the end is pain and more despair.

http://www.postimage.org/Pq1QLSUi-4bf322db36aab8c4d96d2f7dc16adb62.gif

That will be the end until we get a second season a couple years from now.

The next episode, Afterglow, is referring to the Chairman.

Those are my predictions.

Bored old rich men sure do have some interesting hobbies, don't they? :D

I think this thread needs more spoilers. :o

Forgive me if this is a stupid question, but when is episode 25 due out?

25 is already out.

We're waiting on 26 now.

I don't see 25

I don't see 25

http://www.the-triad.org/

I guess that's the end then. I hope there'll be a second season.

@TrueBudSmoker, if you don't like downloading them, you can find the episodes on www.crunchyroll.com

Kaiji 26 is out, and thus concludes the series until they make the second season, which has already been announced (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NU9lDCJrrr8), although no clues as to when yet.

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/7383/fallxi1.gif

In the end he loses everything, yet grows as a man. I liked how he strengthened his resolve and told them to do it and the "Don't give up and hope god will save you, only you can save yourself." message. Kaiji said it himself, he was reduced to praying. Anytime you're in a situation where all you can do is wish upon a star, you know you're fucked. "If God has any speck of mercy in him, he would chose me over this villain!".

Kaiji reached for the stars, but in doing so descended into the darkness of the gambling apocalypse where the light of stars never reach.

Kaiji 26 is out, and thus concludes the series until they make the second season, which has already been announced (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NU9lDCJrrr8), although no clues as to when yet.

http://img143.imageshack.us/img143/7383/fallxi1.gif

That was some GAR how he manned up at the end and told them to do it. In the end he loses everything, yet grows as a man. I like the "Don't give up and hope god will save you, only you can save yourself." message.[/color] Kaiji said it himself, he was reduced to praying: Anytime you're in a situation where all you can do is wish upon a star, you know you're fucked. "If God has any speck of mercy in him, he would chose me over this villain!". He was reaching for the stars, but he was in darkness in the depths of the gambling apocalypse, where the light of stars never reach.

And, let's face it, he doesn't know when to stop.

Yeah, he should have quit while he was ahead even though he felt obligated to vindicate everyone. Another important lesson.