Featured Matches - ISML 2011 Preliminary Period
Phase I, Day 1 — Round 1, Groups 1-8
Saginomiya Isumi (Hayate no Gotoku!) vs. Tainaka Ritsu (K-ON!)
vs. Chrome Dokuro (Katekyō Hitman Reborn!)
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Kicking off the ISML 2011 Preliminaries in style to the flurry of drum solos and crashing cymbals, Tainaka Ritsu makes her return to ISML after a one-year absence. Having missed the cut in ISML 2010, the Light Music Club president is hoping to redeem herself with a strong showing this year. Keeping up to the beat, though, is not going to be easy as she faces off against two individuals who not only wield abilities beyond the supernatural but also do not lack in the moe department. They are Saginomiya Isumi, the direction-challenged exorcist of the Hayate no Gotoku! franchise and Chrome Dokuro, the Mist Guardian of the Vongola Family. Like Ritsu, Chrome is looking to break into the Regular Season for her very first time whereas Isumi will be searching for a second appearance after ISML 2010. While the race has just begun and the path to the end is far and perilous, which one of these three girls will take the first step forward? |
Ayatsuji Tsukasa (Amagami SS) vs. Merry Nightmare (Yumekui Merry)
vs. Itsuwa (Toaru Majutsu no Index)
The search to find the first 16 girls to enter Regular season is on. This match consists of relatively new girls coming into ISML 2011, all unique in their own sense. Ayatsuji Tsukasa, although manipulative and cunning, is a kind class president who is willing to listen to anyone's problems and usually does jobs that students would not usually do. Merry Nightmare is a curious dream demon who has an unusual craving for doughnuts. Itsuwa is a shy girl who is usually seen treating Tōma whenever the opporunity arises for her. Each of these girls wishes to make a big impact in their very first match in ISML. Who will get the chance to become one step closer to entering the regular season? |
Yūno Arashiko (MM!) vs. Misaka Mikoto (Toaru Majutsu no Index)
vs. Last Order (Toaru Majutsu no Index)
Misaka Mikoto may not have won the Tiara last year, but she is still planning on making a big statement here today on why she should be one of the first sixteen girls to advance to the Regular Season. The problem is that she has to deal with one of her counterparts in her very first match: Last Order. Last Order plans on making a big statement herself, and what better way to do it that to defeat the second-place winner of ISML 2010. Do not forget about Yūno Arashiko, the shy yet strong androphobic girl. In the event of a possible split in votes, Arashiko can use this as her opportunity to step above her two opponents, which could be the biggest upset on Mikoto's part. When everything is said and done, which girl will come out victorious? |
Kawashima Ami (Toradora!) vs. Suigintō (Rozen Maiden)
vs. Charlotte Dunois (IS <Infinite Stratos>)
Although she did not do well last year, Kawashima Ami is still willing to challenge the odds and redeem herself in 2011. The 2009 Amethyst Necklace holder Suigintō is here once again in an attempt to reawaken the Rozen Maiden faction of the past. One of the relatively popular winter-series girls in ISML, Charlotte Dunois, is planning to be a dominant force this year. The French maiden will do her best to win today; however, with veterans such as Kawashima Ami and Suigintō, is Charlotte biting off more that she can chew? |
Suzumiya Haruhi (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu) vs. Kuroi Mato (Black ★ Rock Shooter)
vs. Inami Mahiru (WORKING!!)
Suzumiya Haruhi is ready to have another great year in 2011, but she needs to surpass two newcomers who have bright futures ahead of them. Kuroi Mato is a middle school girl willing to do whatever it takes to save a dear friend in need. Inami Mahiru is a high school girl who is trying to cure her androphobia so that she can spend time with her male friends without attacking them. Between a basketball player and a waitress, can the God overcome two girls who are moe in their own way? |
Nakano Azusa (K-ON!) vs. Shinku (Rozen Maiden)
vs. Amae Koromo (Saki)
It is a three-way no-holds barred fight involving three veterans from Japan's Anime Saimoe Tournament (AST). Fresh from successfully claiming the AST 2010 crown back in mid-October last year and representing the K-ON! franchise is Nakano Azusa, but not to be underestimated is Saki's Amae Koromo, who rode on the wave of support that propelled two Saki representatives (the other being Haramura Nodoka) to the semifinals of AST 2010. Also lurking in the background is Shinku, a dual semi-finalist from AST 2005 and 2007, whose strong Rozen faction support gave us a total of 4 Rozen Dolls in this year's Preliminaries despite absence of any new material other than the manga. With equally strong support backing up our three contestants, will Azusa be able to follow up with her last year's achievements, or can Ryūmonbuchi High School's mahjong ace hand her opponents a combination of despair and slow defeat? Or will both end up serving tea to the Fifth Rozen doll? |
Thanks to Kiopi and Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase I, Day 2 — Round 1, Groups 9-16
Ichinose Kotomi (CLANNAD) vs. Victorique de Blois (GOSICK)
vs. Laura Bodewig (IS <Infinite Stratos>)
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A girl who's only wish was to be a "good girl" that would make her parents proud. A girl who is trapped in a tower and reclusive, thus not knowing anything about social contact. A girl who's assumed purpose was to fight, yet ended up as a failure. These three girls have a dark and melancholic past, but they will continue to keep on fighting for what they believe is right and see the truth that would hopefully be revealed to them. Right now, these three girls would have to cast aside their doubts and differences in order to reach for the spot that could be rightfully theirs. Will it be the soft-spoken violinist, Ichinose Kotomi, the mystery solver, Victorique de Blois, or the German valkyrie, Laura Bodewig? |
Isurugi Mio (MM!) vs. Amakusa Shino (Seitokai Yakuindomo)
vs. Tōsaka Rin (Fate/stay night)
Despite being unable to reach the top 16 as a result of her final match last year, Tōsaka Rin is looking forward to return to the regular season, and maybe even make it back to the postseason. As a leader of both her family and a powerful servant, she will have to contend with two new challengers who are also leaders in their own way. Amakusa Shino may lead a student council, but she still has time to let her imagination run wild for almost everyone to see. Isurugi Mio on the other hand leads a volunteer help club which tries to cure fears or other problems. She is dedicated to a point where she will use whatever methods she believes is necessary to help that person. Will the veteran start the preliminaries off on the right foot, or will one of the new challengers make a statement that they want to be part of the regular season? |
Akaba Chizuru (Seitokai no Ichizon) vs. Haruna (Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?)
vs. Akemi Homura (Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica)
Observing our today's three contestants closely, it can be said that no match-up can get any stranger than having a mahō shōjo, "masō" shōjo and a student council secretary all in the same arena. With the current hype over Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica and its dark twist on the magical girl genre, all eyes are on Homura to deliver the goods. However, self-proclaimed genius, Haruna isn't going take all this lying down as she ups the ante by staking it all on her magical chainsaw "Mystletainn" and the popularity of the zombie-parody series, Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?. Not to be outdone though is Hekiyou Academy's student council secretary, Akaba Chizuru but with only the light novels and manga to go on, she'd be hard press to eke out a victory over her two more high-profile rivals. So will it be a showdown between our two new "magical girls" or can Chizuru steal the show with her womanly charms and some subtle "brainwashing"? |
Ryūgū Rena (Higurashi no Naku Koro ni) vs. Suiseiseki (Rozen Maiden)
vs. Yamada Aoi (WORKING!!)
Probably the most surprising matchup that can happen in the first round of the preliminary period, Ryūgū Rena and Suiseiseki find each other not only in the same group, but also in the same match. The last time that these two veterans squared off, Rena was able to capture the victory, making the rivalry between the two 2-1. However, that was an exhibition match. Now, it is for right to claim a spot for the new season, and both veterans would have to do whatever it takes to win. Instead of taking out each other, maybe they should worry about one of the most dangerous girls in ISML, Yamada Aoi, who was been known to use every single arsenal she can to unexpectedly make it to the top. If neither of them may attention soon, Aoi may topple over them when they are not noticing. Will the heated rivalry between Higurashi and Rozen Maiden continue, or will it be overshadowed by an upset win for Aoi? |
Thanks to hinakatbklyn, Kiopi, and Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase I, Day 3 — Round 2, Groups 1-8
Lucy Heartfilia (Fairy Tail, 0 pts) vs. Nakamura Yuri (Angel Beats!, 4 pts)
vs. Suzumiya Haruhi (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu, 4 pts)
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When fans got their first look at Angel Beats!'s Nakamura Yuri, many were excited and intrigued by her. There were a few fans, however, who felt that the leader of the SSS Brigade bore a strong resemblance to the leader of the SOS Brigade, Suzumiya Haruhi. Appearances aside, it was clear that these two were on a collision course; Haruhi is a goddess, and Yurippe and gods have not been on good terms. With both brigade leaders coming off of Day-1 wins, either girl will control their own destiny with a win... unless Lucy Heartfilia can claim an upset. A disappointing third-place finish on Day 1 means that the Fairy Tail Guild member's chances of winning the group are slim, but a victory today could still lead her to a 'happily ever after.' |
Shinku (Rozen Maiden, 2pts) vs. Charlotte Dunois (IS <Infinite Stratos>, 4pts)
vs. Nymph (Sora no Otoshimono, 4pts)
After failing to get the better of Nakano Azusa in her previous match, Shinku now finds herself sandwiched between two characters embodying the superiority of futuristic technology. Hailing from France, newcomer Charlotte Dunois drew first blood in her debut match by sweeping aside Kawashima Ami and Suigintō in convincing fashion. Even then, one should also not underestimate the threat posed by Nymph, another Round 1 winner who is currently enjoying newfound popularity boost attributed to the second season of Sora no Otoshimono. The petite Electronic Warfare Angeloid was able to triumph over the White Devil, Takamachi Nanoha, with a 605 vote advantage, an outcome that was totally unimaginable one year ago. In a battle of science versus magic, old versus new, which one of these three girls will be the last one standing? |
Illyasviel von Einzbern (Fate/stay night, 2pts)
vs. Nagato Yuki (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu, 4pts)
vs. Kirishima Shōko (Baka to Test to Shōkanjū, 4 pts)
After a relatively easy first match, group favorite and ISML veteran Nagato Yuki now faced by two formidable opponents. The valedictorian newcomer isn't a pushover here. Shōko proved that by winning her match by quite a margin, such an impressive performance by the newcomer. The other opponent is none other than Illyasviel von Einzbern, who scored enough points last year to grant her an automatic spot in the preliminaries. This match could be crucial for determining the winner of this group. Will the humanoid interface cruise past this match, or Illya triumph over her opponents, or Shōko pulling the biggest upset in this round? |
Shana (Shakugan no Shana, 4pts) vs. Erza Scarlet (Fairy Tail, 2pts)
vs. Aragaki Ayase (Ore no Imōto, 4pts)
Five groups will decide which contestant would be knocked out in the running to qualify first in Regular season. All eyes on focused Shana and Aragaki Ayase, both of whom won in their respective groups. Shana proves once again what a dominant force she is in ISML. Ayase did well in her first match and plans to start a winning streak, even if she has take down a major veteran in order to achieve her goal. Although not able to fight for a chance to be in the Regular Season, Erza Scarlet can still be a major factor and wall to climb. As these three girls continue their way into making it into the regular season, can the flame haze spell doom for the newcomers, or will they be the first one's this year to put out the fire and proceed to the next round? |
Ika-Musume (Shinryaku! Ika Musume, 4pts) vs. Celty Sturluson (Durarara!!, 0pts)
vs. Kiriya Nozomi (Mayoi Neko Overrun!, 4pts)
W trzecim dniu eliminacji zawodniczki są już świadome, na co stać ich konkurencję. Jednak na pytanie, która z nich jest najlepsza, odpowiedzieć może tylko bezpośrednia konfrontacja. Ika-Musume i Kiriya Nozomi podejmują wyzwanie mając na swoim koncie już po jednym zwycięstwie, Celty Sturluson musi natomiast podnieść się po bolesnej porażce w starciu z Katsurą Hinagiku. Nie sposób przewidzieć, jak zakończy się to spotkanie kałamarnicy, zagubionego kota i wróżki. W poprzedniej rundzie Ika-Musume i Kiriya Nozomi uzyskały przecież podobną liczbę głosów, a Celty Sturluson chce pokazać na co ją stać, gdy nie ma w grupie zdobywczyni tiary. |
Thanks to amdrag, Cytrus, Kiopi, MindSaber, and Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase I, Day 4 — Round 2, Groups 9-16
Fate Testarossa (Mahō Shōjo Lyrical Nanoha, 4 pts)
vs. Kanzaki Kaori (Toaru Majutsu no Index, 0 pts)
vs. Kōsaka Kirino (Ore no Imōto, 4 pts)
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This is one match that many of our voters cannot miss. Despite the lack of material for her, Fate Testarossa came out with a very impressive score over her two opponents, having the second highest voting score from the group. The 2008 tiara maiden proved her worth in ISML and showed that she will not back down any challenge. What Fate may have to look out for is Kōsaka Kirino, who is not only second from the nomination list but also the one with the highest vote count of their group. With the high heat and momentum coming from this cute little sister, Kirino sends out the message that she is ready for anything to come after her in ISML. One should not forget about Kanzaki Kaori, the one who lurks far away and is ready to strike at any given moment. With an interesting Toaru Majutsu no Index heat wave coming from the previous round, Kaori may be able to ride on the wave and scare a major win for her series. When all the magic, swords, and visual novels come to a halt, which one of these girls will preside over the two? |
Furukawa Nagisa (CLANNAD, 4 pts) vs. Shiina (Angel Beats!, 2 pts)
vs. Suiseiseki (Rozen Maiden, 4 pts)
A close-call win for Nagisa means that she is now one step closer to be one of the first sixteen people to make it to the Regular Season. The Dango Daikazoku fan is willing to do her very best to have fun with her friends in ISML. Even so, Suiseiseki does not wish to be out of the loop just yet. With an impressive win from her rival and a newcomer, Suiseiseki is working to regain the strength that her series had two years ago. Although these two girls are fighting for right to quickly gain a spot this year, maybe they should not ignore Shiina. With an impressive win from her comrade-in-arms Iwasawa Asami two days ago, maybe it is about time for Shiina to unleash her true strength in this match. When this match is over, will our voters receive drawings of dangos, cute robotic animals, or plants and roses? |
Yui (Angel Beats!, 4 pts) vs. Akaba Chizuru (Seitokai no Ichizon, 0 pts)
vs. Saber (Fate/stay night, 4 pts)
In a group in which anything can happen, it does not get any better than this. Yui came off with an impressive win in her last match, knocking out two major veterans out of the race to the top. Today, she has to face two more prominent veterans who are hoping to quickly make it to regular season. Despite losing her match, Akaba Chizuru will continue to show no sign on mercy to anyone in her path to Regular Season. In her last match, Saber dominated her group over two newcomers, showing that she would not pull any punches just because her opponents are new to ISML. Will the Girls Dead Monster lead singer be able to pull off another victory, will the cunning Secretary make sure things go her way, or will the high-classed swordswoman make her opponents fall to her once more? |
Thanks to Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase I, Day 5 — Round 3, Groups 1-8
Nakano Azusa (K-ON!, 8 pts) vs. Charlotte Dunois (IS <Infinite Stratos>, 8 pts)
vs. Segawa Izumi (Hayate no Gotoku!, 2 pts)
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A preliminary round? It could possibly be what the future finals of ISML would look like. Nakano Azusa and Charlotte Dunois, two bright young contenders, are the remaining girls in their group to have a perfect score in hand. So much is at stake, and it is not during the finals of the first preliminary period. One small wrong move would spell the beginning of the end of one of these girls. The 2010 AST Champion is looking to put away her potential opponent with her guitar and music. The French rising contender will do whatever to takes to take out a powerful foe with her charm and beauty. In the midst of this heat, Segawa Izumi is planning to get a surprising win here, which could ultimately be the biggest upset victory in her part. The heat is on in a match that can alter who stays and who gets sent packing back home. Who will come out victorious after everything is said and done? |
Iwasawa Asami (Angel Beats!, 6 pts)
vs. Elucia de Lute Irma (Kami nomi zo Shiru Sekai, 8 pts)
vs. Ayatsuji Tsukasa (Amagami SS, 2 pts)
After a loss from Merry Nightmare, Elucia de Lute Irma should be glad that things are going in her direction thus far. The Lost Soul hunter has maded her previous matches look easy, but today, things might get a little bit sticky. One of her opponents is none other than Iwasawa Asami, the one who knocked Merry out of the competition with an impressive score. At this rate, the former Girls Dead Monster leader may send another hard-working girl out of the race to make it quickly to the first sixteen spots. Ayatsuji Tsukasa wishes not to be ignored. Although the class representative is not doing too well, a win from her would definitely send a message everyone in her group. What will the outcome be in this clash of three contenders? |
Lucy Heartfilia (Fairy Tail, 0 pts) vs. Kuroi Mato (Black ★ Rock Shooter, 6 pts)
vs. Index L. Prohibitorum (Toaru Majutsu no Index, 6 pts)
Chuck the rulebook out the window. This group potentially shows that anything can happen in ISML. Kuroi Mato scored a major victory over veteran Maria. The middle school basketball player proved that she will not be intimidated by a powerful veteran like Maria. Her next match may prove a challenge, as she is facing Index L. Prohibitorum. Although her competition was easy, Index proved that she still have some strength on her to take out anyone that she sees as prey. Even though Lucy Heartfilia has not been scoring any wins as of yet, it is only a matter of time until she does the impossible, and this match may provide the opportunity that she needs to pull off a grand victory. Will the spirit summoner take home the victory, will the rock shooter wreck everything in her path, or will the magical run make sure that the results will be in her favor? |
Suigintō (Rozen Maiden, 4 pts) vs. Shinku (Rozen Maiden, 2 pts)
vs. Takamachi Nanoha (Mahō Shōjo Lyrical Nanoha, 4 pts)
No match description available. |
Thanks to Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase I, Day 6 — Round 3, Groups 9-16
Alice (Pandora Hearts, 0 pts) vs. Izumi Konata (Lucky ☆ Star, 8 pts)
vs. Kotobuki Tsumugi (K-ON!, 8 pts)
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What could possibly be the final showdown of Group 10 has begun. Here, Izumi Konata and Kotobuki Tsumugi will square off to see who will be first person to make it to Regular Season. For Tsumugi, this means a lot to her. She was not able to have tea and cake with her friends last year, but this year looks quite promising to her, after having been able to defeat Sanzen'in Nagi. Konata wishes to make another major performance back in ISML. With everything going her way thus far, she certainly does not want to lose anytime soon and continue her winning streak. Despite not being able to muster up wins yet, Alice is still looking for that one opportunity to surprise her competition, and it may happen here. Which girl will be able to make a clear statement as to who is the more dominate female in Group 10? |
Sonohara Anri (Durarara!!, 2 pts) vs. Fujibayashi Kyō (CLANNAD, 8 pts)
vs. Fate Testarossa (Mahō Shōjo Lyrical Nanoha, 6 pts)
It is an early clash between two members of the Elite 7 for a chance to make it in Regular Season. Fate Testarossa had quite a tough match a few days ago, but she cannot be sullen about it just yet. If Fate wishes to continue her pursuit to the top, she must win this match no matter what the cost is. The road is not easy, for she has to face a good friend of hers in order to do so: Fujibayashi Kyō. Kyō was quite sad that Fate was unable to make it to post-season last year. She may give this match to her, but, as of now, it is every girl for herself. While these two are fighting each other, Sonohara Anri could possibly slip in and garnish a win for herself while the two ot them are not looking. Either way, there will be tears shed in this match when it is over. |
Thanks to Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase I, Day 7 — Round 4, Groups 1-8
Elucia de Lute Irma (Kami nomi zo Shiru Sekai, 12 pts)
vs. Merry Nightmare (Yumekui Merry, 10 pts)
vs. Akiyama Mio (K-ON!, 12 pts)
[ Show more... ]
The last leg of the race for the Regular Season is on and open to our Top 3 contestants in this final Group 1 match. Leading the pack is Akiyama Mio who has demonstrated impressive play so far, thus cementing her reputation as the winner of the ISML 2010 Tiara and being regarded as the contender to beat by both veterans and new hopefuls alike. Among those new hopefuls is the clumsy demon girl Elucia de Lute Irma who just narrowly survived a 12-vote scare from Angel Beats!'s Iwasawa Asami in the previous round to remain undefeated. Down but not out is Merry Nightmare who, despite being one-win short, still has one more chance at making it to the Regulars, provided that she finishes at no less than first place above her other two opponents. Will Mio continue her solid grip on the ISML playing field, or will Elsie be the first to end Mio's winning streak this year? Can Merry erase the shame of her loss which may haunt her dreams for many matches to come? |
Suzumiya Haruhi (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu, 12 pts)
vs. Index Librorum Prohibitorum (Toaru Majutsu no Index, 10 pts)
vs. Maria (Hayate no Gotoku!, 8 pts)
We have reached the final round of Phase I and, for today's challengers, the battle is on to see who will be among the first to reach the regular season. Haruhi may look like a normal high school girl on the outside, but she can decide the fate of the world and not even know it. Her ability to reach the postseason each year has earned her a spot in the regular season the following year. This time she has to win her preliminary matches in order to reach the regular season. Maria spends her time as a maid at an estate and uses her intelligence and other abilities to serve her master. When angry, her aura alone is enough to strike fear into whoever she meets. She has also previously spent some time in the regular season. Unlike Haruhi, she already knows how to reach the regular season as a result of winning her preliminary matches each year. Index may look like a nun with a temper on the outside, but she has the ability to access an encylopedia of magic. She spent the previous year in the prelliminaries, but was unable to reach the regular season. All three challengers have a chance to reach the regular season, yet their only concern right now is to win today's match and earn themselves a spot in the regular season. Which one will it be? |
Ika-Musume (Shinryaku! Ika Musume, 12pts)
vs. Katsura Hinagiku (Hayate no Gotoku!, 12pts)
vs. Shiomiya Shiori (Kami nomi zo Shiru Sekai, 8pts)
The final Group 5 battle for a spot in the Regular Season ends with a face-off between our invading cephalopod, Ika-Musume and ISML 2009's champion, Katsura Hinagiku. While both have remained undefeated so far, Hinagiku has been aggressive in showing the winning appetite that made her a force to be reckoned with in previous ISML editions. The ball is now in Ika Musume's court to prove that as the future ruler over the human race, she is capable of pulling out all the stops; tentacles, ink and sea smarts to overcome this hurdle. While out of the competition and preferring to be seated in a quiet secluded area of the library with a book in hand, Shiomiya Shiori is not to be counted out as she will still be around playing spoiler to her other two rivals. So which one of these two will be among the firsts to take the honor of making it into this year's ISML 2011? |
Ikaros (Sora no Otoshimono, 10 pts)
vs. Misaka Mikoto (Toaru Majutsu no Index, 12 pts)
vs. Tainaka Ritsu (K-ON!, 10 pts)
With the way things are going right now, it does not look like anything can stop the electricity flowing in Misaka Mikoto's body as she attempts to quickly advance to Regular Season. The two main girls that are in her way are Ikaros and Tainaka Ritsu, and both are ready to give it their all to win this bout. The Ace of Tokiwadai Mikoto is making it pretty clear that she is not too threatened about her competition. With the continuation of her dominating wins, Mikoto is ready to give it her all at any time. The Alpha warrior Ikaros and the drummer Ritsu know of her strength, yet the are willing to put their bodies on the line for this one chance to make it to the top. The similar thing about the two competitors is that both of them lost to Last Order of the same series. Will this loss be their fuel for victory or the premonition of their demise. A win from either of these three girls will automatically guarantee them a spot in Regular season. Which girl shall claim it? |
Shinonono Hōki (IS <Infinite Stratos>, 12 pts)
vs. Shana (Shakugan no Shana, 12 pts)
vs. Saten Ruiko (Toaru Majutsu no Index, 10 pts)
The new and popular winter season series, IS <Infinite Stratos> has made quite an impression in this year's ISML, with girls such as Charlotte Dunois, Huang Lingyin, and the girl in this match, Shinonono Hōki. Hōki has made quite a name for herself for defeating all of her opponents by a relatively close margin. While luck may be on her side, is it enough to overcome one of the most powerful divas in ISML history: the Flame Haze Shana. Shana literally burned, destroyed, and dominated her competition with such ease that one has to wonder when her burning moment would disappear like smoke. Hōki is willing to do everything in her power to defeat Shana. Do not count Saten Ruiko out of the picture. A win from either of the three would give the winner a spot on Regular Season. After coming so far, Ruiko does not want this grand opportunity to be wasted in front of her. Which of these girls will have the last say after all of this is said and done? |
Hirasawa Ui (K-ON!, 12 pts)
vs. Huang Lingyin (IS <Infinite Stratos>, 12 pts)
vs. Aisaka Taiga (Toradora!, 12 pts)
With all three girls having a perfect score, there is but one solution: to defeat their two opponents to make it to the top. Hirasawa Ui may have not been such a dominating figure had it not been for the second season of her series. With this, her popularity grew, allowing her to defeat strong veterans that one would think that she would have no chance of winning to. Making her way into Regular season as well is Huang Lingyin. From her popular series, Lingyin is looking to make a statement for herself, as she is the underdog coming into this match. A win form her could create a major boost for her friends and make Infinite Stratos a force to be recognized with. The problem that these two have to face is not each other, but the third girl in this match: Aisaka Taiga. If you want someone who could perform the impossible, there is no one better to research than her. Taiga has never backed down from any challenge in front of her, and this match is no exception. Can the pure-of-heart sister Ui win this match and be reunited with her friends in Regular Season, will the Chinese maiden Lingyin prove the dominance of her series, or will the palmtop tiger sweep both of them away and make this match easy for her? |
Nakano Azusa (K-ON!, 12 pts) vs. Suigintō (Rozen Maiden, 6 pts)
vs. Nymph (Sora no Otoshimono, 10 pts)
After three matches, Nakano Azusa now tops the Group 4 standings with 12 points and a win will put her firmly in the Regular Season. However, complacency is one vice that she can ill-afford as losing her grip on the checkered flag right now will put her at risk of not only leveling the ground in favor of Nymph, but also for Charlotte Dunois and Takamachi Nanoha who are both involved in their own fights in an adjacent battlefield. Should the worst of the worst ever come to pass, Azusa would find her fate resting in the hands of the Mecury Lamp, Suigintō and this is one prospect that Azusa would want to avoid at all cost. As for Nymph, overcoming the AST 2010 champion is still not yet a guarantee of a free ticket, the irony being that the person most worthy of receiving the prize is decided not only by one but two ongoing matches involving a multitude of intricate conditions. So in a tangled web of tactical maneuvering and strategic play, can Azusa hammer in an outright win or can Nymph fulfill the necessary conditions required to move to the Regulars? Or will the role of playmaker fall onto Suigintō's lap? |
Nagato Yuki (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu, 12 pts)
vs. Kuronuma Sawako (Kimi ni Todoke, 4 pts)
vs. Kasugano Sora (Yosuga no Sora, 12 pts)
For two of these girls, it is the chance to become a part of the main tournament. For one of them, it is to show off the last remaining pride of her series. The fight is on as Nagato Yuki and Kasugano Sora battle for the chance to be in Regular Season. Yuki has shown time and time again why she deserves to be in Regular Season. Having the highest vote count in every round in her group, it is not a surprise why she is considered one of the Elite 7. The dark horse that roams around this group is Kasugano Sora. Despite fear of her series burdening her, Sora has been on a roll with relatively high scoring wins. As of now, she does look like a favorable force to be reckoned with come regular season. The final person in this match is Kuronuma Sawako. Although it is the end of the road for her, her role in this match is the most crucial. Sawako can cause one of her opponents to her downfall, which is not what either of them want. Which girl shall win this round and claim a place in Regular Season? |
Thanks to hinakatbklyn, Kiopi, and Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase I, Day 8 — Round 4, Groups 9-16
Tōsaka Rin (Fate/stay night, 12pts)
vs. Tachibana Kanade (Angel Beats!, 12pts)
vs. Sengoku Nadeko (Bakemonogatari, 12pts)
[ Show more... ]
Mystery abounds in another showdown between three, likely Regular Season competitors. While they may not have had the most focus on airtime in their respective series, they have certainly garnered worthy attention in the aftermath. There is the feisty mage who has become a trademark of the tsundere type, the quiet and mysterious purple-haired wonder who seems poised to rise above those before her in her own character-type and be a major contender for the tiara, and the shy snake who became the very definition of the imouto-type. Be that as it may, only one will be able to live up to her character type's strengths and forge her own identity in the Regular Season. So which will be destined as the epitome of her type? In every ISML edition, there will always be a new face who will rise up to challenge the old guard. Last year, we had Akiyama Mio. This year, the baton has been passed to Tachibana Kanade, who has shown that she is up to the task by managing a 6,209 vote average over three victorious matches, the highest ever in this year's Preliminaries. Interestingly enough, this final round match is Kanade's first run-in with two ISML veterans. Going up against her are ISML 2010's 13th and 17th ranked players, Sengoku Nadeko and Tōsaka Rin, both of whom are also undefeated in their own respective matches so far. While not as impressive performance-wise, Nadeko and Rin do still have their core support and will definitely not go down without a fight. Can Kanade grab this opportunity to make her declaration of challenge to all for the rest of ISML 2011 or will the veteran side prove that experience triumphs over youth? |
Asahina Mikuru (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu, 12 pts)
vs. Victorique de Blois (GOSICK, 12 pts)
vs. Hirasawa Yui (K-ON!, 12 pts)
With all three girls having a perfect score, it was only a matter of time before these three were to square off in the finals of the Preliminary round. Time traveler Asahina Mikuru was delighted when she heard that her friends Yuki and Haruhi were able to advance to Regular Season. As the weakest girl of the three, it is up to her to try her hardest so that she can reunite with her friends in the main round. A similar story can be heard from guitarist and vocalist Hirasawa Yui. The hugging and celebration for Mio and Azusa's victories have only increased her adrenalin, making her wish to be with her friends as soon as possible. In order for Mikuru and Yui to do this, they must defeat each other in hopes that one of them will be on top. A wild card factor that may decide the outcome of this match is mystery-solver Victorique de Blois. Although she is alone and on her own in ISML, all she needs to do is carefully construct the chaos to her favor, which will allow her to win the match. Everything hangs within the balance of this match. Only one girl can come out of this alive. Will Mikuru and Yui reunite with their friends, or will Victorique rise above them and make it to the top? |
Eucliwood Hellscythe (Kore wa Zombie Desu ka?, 12 pts)
vs. Sakagami Tomoyo (CLANNAD, 12 pts),
vs. C.C. (Code Geass, 12 pts)
Surprisingly enough, these three quiet and somewhat liberal girls managed to find each other in the final round with perfect scores. By the time the match begins, all hell will break loose. Sakagami Tomoyo is looking to maintain her place as one of the first sixteen girls to advance to theRegular Season. This student council member is willing to do whatever it takes to make it to the top, no matter what the obstacles are in front of her. Another veteran willing to make another grand entrance to the Regular Season is C.C. Although known as a witch, she has not use any of her powers to make it seem as if her opponents are easy game to her. In this match, she may need to go all out if she is willing to do whatever it takes to get to the Regular Season. In the midst of all of this is one of the most popular characters in the winter series: the necromancer Eucliwood Hellscythe. Out of these three girls, Eucliwood has done outstandingly well, besting both of these girls in vote counts in every match. Now that she has to take on true veterans, it is only a matter of time before things go very rough on the newcomers. After all of the spells, kicks, and commands, only one girl will remain standing. As if fated from the beginning of Group 11, the three contenders for the prized position for qualification to the regular season must face off in a deadly triple-threat. All three of them are formidable girls who have ways of getting what they want in differing methods, connected by their ability to get physical when needed: the silent, silver-haired necromancer who fears her own powers; the compelling school president living in repentance for a youth stained in shame; and the immortal witch living on a final hope to right the wrongs she has seen transpire. Salvation will only come for one of these three. Who will it be--the one who can resurrect the dead, the indomitable president with the kick that defies the universe, or the immortal one? Whoever emerges from this showdown triumphant will have shown death-defying determination and earned the right to be a contender for the hallowed tiara. |
Kōsaka Kirino (Ore no Imōto, 12 pts)
vs. Kaname Madoka (Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica, 2 pts)
vs. Fujibayashi Kyō (CLANNAD, 12 pts)
Things are heating up as the first preliminary phase draws to a close. In this group, two girls will square off to determine who will proceed to the Regular Season. In one corner is Kōsaka Kirino, the cute little sister that many of our competitors have been keeping an eye on. Kirino ripped through her competition with ease, even making Elite 7 Fate Testerossa seem like nothing to her. Maybe she will get her just desserts today, as she faces yet another powerful member of the Elite 7 in the other corner: Fujibayashi Kyō. Kyō has been waiting for this moment for a while. After a hard-fought victory with Fate, she is willing to take revenge for her sister by taking out the second most-nominated contestant of ISML. In the midst of all of this is Kaname Madoka. Although she is unable to join in the first Preliminary phrase, she can still be quite a dangerous competitor. With the recent airing or her series, maybe she can muster enough votes to defeat both of them. After this hard-fought bout, who will be the next person to advance to the Regular Season? This face-off could well be a matter of how the two vying for the precious qualification can keep their tempers in check, as well as how the reluctant competitor weighs into the equation. Kirino is accustomed to getting what she wants, when she wants with her academic, sporting, and modeling prowess. But she finds herself facing someone who is just as formidable in those respects in Kyō, who is the type that will make things happen when no one else is willing to take the first step. Madoka, whose ISML debut has been the complete opposite, still finds herself unable to take that first step and has had things happen to her instead. Perhaps this time, the votes she garners will be a factor in the showdown of the tantrums. The classy, yet spoiled, upstart versus the refined, yet fiery regular, with the reluctant one in the middle: who will emerge victorious from this merciless battle? |
Yamada Aoi (WORKING!!, 0 pts)
vs. Furukawa Nagisa (CLANNAD, 12 pts)
vs. Hiiragi Kagami (Lucky ☆ Star, 12 pts)
As things are going right now, Hiiragi Kagami should have no trouble advancing from this match. With beauty, brains, and brawn, it is not a surprise why voters consider her as a member of the Elite 7. Still, one should not underestimate the kindness and compassion of Furukawa Nagisa. Nagisa has been trying her hardest to get past the many conflicts in order to obtain the result that she has. Nagisa would like things to be solved nicely and peacefully, but it cannot be so, as it is only every woman for herself at this point. Yamada Aoi seems to having trouble getting her engine running, as the girls from her series are not doing as well as they could. If Aoi wishes to prove that her team still has it, she must make the upset win that would surprise everyone. Who shall be the one that will swiftly make it to the Regular Season? |
Senjōgahara Hitagi (Bakemonogatari, 12 pts)
vs. Shiina Mafuyu (Seitokai no Ichizon, 12 pts)
vs. Gokō Ruri (Kuroneko) (Ore no Imōto, 12 pts)
The match that everyone has been waiting for has arrived. The most nominated girl this year, Gokō Ruri, will take on the second and third most nominated girls in 2010: Senjōgahara Hitagi and Shiina Mafuyu, respectively. Ruri's series has been very impressive this year; with three of its four representatives scoring big wins in every match, it is no wonder why people consider them a dangerous faction. Ruri plans to take everything into her own hands and make things go her way. These two veterans will have to do whatever it takes to not only surpass each other, but to surpass Ruri. Hiragi has made some major improvements despite arriving close to last in last year's Double Elimination. Hitagi will have to use every method in her arsenal to make sure that this time she wins this bout. Mafuyu should not be looked down upon, as she preformed significantly well during her 2010 career. She plans to take a step to the next level, and the only way to do that is to arrive first in this match when everything is said and done. There is only enough room for one of these girls; who will it be? |
Thanks to Kiopi, Last Sinner, and Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase II, Day 1 — Round 1, Brackets A-H
Merry Nightmare (Yumekui Merry) vs. Ryūgū Rena (Higurashi no Naku Koro ni)
[ Show more... ]
An interesting clash between a newcomer and a veteran can be seen here. Merry Nightmare, the doughnut-loving dream-demon, tries her best to play hero and save others who are possessed by evil demons. On a regular occasion, she is a curious girl who gets excited over the simplest of things while exploring the city. She also tries to think of the well-being of her friends and attempts to solve problems by any means necessary. Ryūgū Rena is a lively eccentric school girl who talks about things that she feels are cute. This is merely a facade to hide her gloomy past and the darkness within her. For that, she ensures that everyone around her is happy by placing her friends' safety over her own. Will Rena be able to take Merry home, or will Merry be the one to send Rena back from where she came? |
Busujima Saeko (Highschool of the Dead) vs. Isurugi Mio (MM!)
Leaders in their own way, Busujima Saeko and Isurugi Mio will square off for the right to be in the Regular Season. Saeko is a beautiful, well-mannered, and well-respected swordswoman. With the art of the sword in hand, it is not surprising that she is the president of the kendo club. Amid the crisis of the city, Saeko handles many of the situations with a calm voice and a clear head. Out of the group, she can be described as the guardian who assures safety and makes sure no one turns into one of "them." On the other hand, Mio is an irrational girl who usually solves things via contests or violence. Despite her nature, she runs a Secondary Volunteer Club which attempts to help fellow students solve their problems. Mio has a very caring personality; she usually does everything with good intentions, despite the results that follow. She will do anything to fix anyone's problems. When this match is over, which girl will rise over her competitor? |
Kiriya Nozomi (Mayoi Neko Overrun!) vs. Sendō Erika (Fortune Arterial)
Both Nozomi and Erika merely wish to have a great day, every day in school. None of them want to have their secrets revealed, especially to their friends. Despite her nekomimi hairstye, Kiriya Nozomi is not a cat girl; she is a child who was sent to a facility that gathers orphans with potential. Due to her extreme Intelligence and athleticism, it is not surprising that her disappearance creates an uproar in the facility. Nozomi wants to go to a regular school and do normal things with her friends, not stay confined in a building where she believes that she is the cause of misfortune to others. Sendō Erika is a vampire girl who still lives in the human world. Since she does not wish to frighten others, she tries to hide her vampire nature. Because her mother believes that humans and vampires cannot coexist, Erika wishes to prove her mother wrong by going to school as a normal high school student and eventually becoming student council vice president. These two girls have been pursuing their dreams out of fear. Will there be any comfort by the time their match is over? |
Ibuki Fūko (CLANNAD) vs. Akaba Chizuru (Seitokai no Ichizon)
In ISML 2010, two series caught much attention from voters during the Preliminary Phase. CLANNAD grabbed the headlines by managing to send all of its nominated candidates to the Regular Season while the quartet of Seitokai no Ichizon waltzed past the Preliminary Phase with ease. However, things have drastically changed since last year. CLANAND is no longer a faction to be feared as all of its nominated girls, including ISML veterans Kyō and Tomoyo, failed to advance to the Regular Season through Phase 1. Similarly, Hekiyou Academy's student council also fell short of repeating their strong performance from last year, which raises questions about its ability to mount another serious challenge for the Post Season. Is this really the beginning of the end for both? Now that Phase 2 commences, this round is probably an opportunity for both series to turn around their fortunes. While Fūko and Chizuru are not the strongest participants from each faction, achieving victory from this round could create momentum for strong performances in the remaining matches. Can the secretary of Hekiyou Academy's student council earn the title of “Fūko Master” in time before tasting the bitterness of the "starfish cake?" One thing is certain. Both CLANNAD and Seitokai no Ichizon cannot afford to lose this match. |
Thanks to Cassiopeia and Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase II, Day 2 — Round 1, Brackets I-P
Kanzaki Kaori (Toaru Majutsu no Index)
vs. Akemi Homura (Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica)
[ Show more... ]
Round 2 of Preliminary Phase 2 showcases some mouthwatering clashes and there is no doubt that one of those matches is this one. Kanzaki Kaori failed to even appear in the Preliminary Phase last year, but she is determined to join the likes of "Railgun" this time around. With more screen time from Toaru Majutsu no Index II, qualifying for the Regular Season is no longer "Mission Impossible" for the former priestess of Amakusa Catholics. The first obstacle that she will have to overcome is the girl who is willing to risk everything to save her beloved friend. On paper, her mission does not seem to be that difficult. Kaname Madoka’s shocking defeats at the hands of Kaori and Hecate have been defining examples in a string of disappointing performances from Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica. However, all hope has not been shattered for Madoka fans as Homura is prepared to save her ISML career. This match could bring out the best in "Homerun-chan" that we have not seen yet, since she is determined to avenge her best friend’s loss. Due to the recent developments in the series, Homura seems to be gaining more ground in ISML as she was narrowly defeated by Holo in the last match of Phase 1. Unfortunately, the mysterious magical girl will not get a chance to repeat the match to change the outcome. Will Homura-chan receive the upper hand in the clash between magical girl and magician in her trademark “Homu Homu” fashion, or will Kaori add more grief to the soul gem instead? |
Furude Rika (Higurashi no Naku Koro ni) vs. Rose (Dragon Crisis!)
Furude Rika has been one of the major icons in the history of Saimoe tournaments. Considering the fact that she is the 2007 AST Champion and one of the participants in the first ISML Double Elimination, one might assume that she would have a steady fan base backing her up in the many years to come. But just last year, her rank plummeted from fourth to last place. With new anime series being released every season, could it be that time has finally run out for Rika? She does not want to believe it, and in order to prove everyone wrong, she has to return to the Regular Season by any means necessary. Rose blocks her way to reach that goal as one of the fresh newcomers from the 2011 winter season. While Rose did not do so well in Preliminary Period Phase 1, she has the chance to make it there once again in this phase by taking advantage of Rika's weakened state. Not only that, but she has the infamous Kugimiya fan base to support her with its utmost power. Is it about time for Rika to step down and give her place to Rose, or will Rika prove that she still has it in her to fight for the Regular Season? |
Ichinose Kotomi (CLANNAD) vs. Nanasaki Ai (Amagami SS)
Ichinose Kotomi is an intelligent girl who is usually seen inside a library reading to her heart's content. Despite this intelligence, she lacks social skills and has a hard time interacting with other people. With the help of her friends, she is now able to express herself better and be more active than before. Nanasaki Ai, too, is a hard-working girl who often hones her swimming skills in the school's swimming pool. Sometimes, she overworks herself because she tries too hard to join the school's official swimming team and over thinks the reasons behind her failure. With the help of her friends, she is able to calm down and contemplate over matters before making any irrational comments. Friendship is what binds these two together. When it breaks, which one will advance forward while the other recedes? |
Kushieda Minori (Toradora!) vs. Hiiragi Tsukasa (Lucky ☆ Star)
With both of their friends acquiring their places in this year's Regular Season, Kushieda Minori and Hiiragi Tsukasa do not want to be left out. Witnessing both Hiiragi Kagami and Izumi Konata's advancement to the Regular Season only makes Tsukasa, the remaining member of Lucky ☆ Star, wish to join her friends more. The three of them have been together in the Regular Season since the start of ISML, so it may feel awkward for Tsukasa if she does not make it in this year. Even so, with a relatively easy win for Kagami and a surprising win from Konata, Tsukasa is willing to do everything she can to be with them once more. Minori also wishes to be with her friend, Aisaka Taiga, whenever possible. The two of them have been together for so long that Taiga is dependent on Minori whenever she has personal problems. Minori deeply cares about Taiga and wants to make sure that she has fun every day. Which one of these girls will be able to keep their promises of being together in ISML? |
Kinomoto Sakura (Cardcaptor Sakura) vs. Lucy Heartfilia (Fairy Tail)
In more ways than one, our two players today have more in common than meets the eye. Both Cardcaptor Kinomoto Sakura and Celestial Spirit mage Lucy Heartfilia employ summoning magic through the use of magically imbued mediums from which they call out spirits to aid them in various tasks. For the former, it is through the use of Clow Cards, whereas for the latter, her summoning items come in the forms of keys, which open up gates to the spirit world. As they progress through various hardships in their respective universes, both mature in strength and proficiency in their field of magic. But more importantly, both possess personalities that strongly care for and empathize with the spirits contracted to them. As stated in one of the above series, love makes the spirit stronger, so which of our two young lasses today will have the stronger spirit? |
Thanks to Cassiopeia, Kiopi, and Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase II, Day 3 — Round 2
Kirishima Shōko (Baka to Test to Shōkanjū) vs. Konjiki no Yami (To LOVE-Ru)
[ Show more... ]
At first glance, you would think our next two challengers enjoy being violent all the time. However, the few who are lucky enough to get close to these two have realized that they have hidden personalities as well. Kirishima Shōko, a newcomer to ISML, is more than willing to support her friends. The problem is that she can also use extreme measures to support her boyfriend or her other friends even if they don't want her help. Only those who have the patience to support Shōko when she needs it the most know that she has a nice side as well. Konjiki no Yami, a Regular Season veteran, previously lived her life without any friends and lived only to fight. Only a chance encounter with her closest friend and fellow ISML challenger Yuuki Mikan helped her become less hostile and make a few more friends. Both of these challengers have to be ruthless to have a possibility at reaching the final round of Phase II and increase their chances of reaching the Regular Season. Does Shōko have the weapons and the determination to beat her opponent, or will Yami use her battle skills and experience to eliminate her opponent and anyone else who stands in her way? |
Ikaros (Sora no Otoshimono) vs. Merry Nightmare (Yumekui Merry)
The road continues to become more challenging as the semi-finals of the Preliminary series continue. Ikaros and Merry Nightmare are still attempting to gain a spot in the Regular Season. The first-generation angel Ikaros will do whatever she can to make it to the top. Ikaros tries her best to live a normal life on Earth and forget about the dangerous being that she was in the past. When the situation calls for it, she will unleash her power for those whom she cares about. Dream Eater Merry Nightmare will do everything in her power to succeed. Merry has been alone for so long after losing her way. When she began her stay with humans on Earth, she finally felt at ease as she searched for a way back home. Like Ikaros, Merry will do everything she can to make sure none of her friends are sad or hurt. These two, modern-day Valkyries will fight in order to continue to the final round of the second Preliminary Phase. Who will be the the one to stand over the other to claim the victory? |
Aragaki Ayase (Ore no Imōto) vs. Tainaka Ritsu (K-ON!)
Two highly popular series will finally clash for the first time. Aragaki Ayase is a good-natured and well-mannered middle school girl. Ayase attempts to get people on the "right" path when she considers their current path "wrong." Only through the help of her friend's brother is she able to be open about people's hobbies and interests. Tainaka Ritsu is an outgoing and energetic high school student. She always finds a way to make projects and events livelier and sillier than they should be. Despite the good or bad results of her nature, Ritsu does everything with the best of intentions. Which of these two girls will be one step closer to making it to the Regular Season in this period? |
Asahina Mikuru (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu)
vs. Kuroi Mato (Black ★ Rock Shooter)
An easy win for the time traveler Asahina Mikuru made her reunion with her friends in the Regular Season that much closer. The SOS Brigade members have been inseparable in every Regular Season, and it will feel awkward if she does not join the Regular Season this year. Kuroi Mato stands in her way, and she is not easy to push away. Mato has shown some amazing performances with veterans in the first Preliminary Phase, defeating Maria and nearly beating Index. This is probably her toughest match yet, as she has yet been able to defeat someone of Mikuru's status. Can Mikuru blast her opponent away with her signature Mikuru Beam, or will Mato send her to a different dimension with her rock shooter? |
Sakagami Tomoyo (CLANNAD) vs. Maria (Hayate no Gotoku!)
This has not been a good start for either of these series. Normally at this point, one would already see at least two representatives of CLANNAD and Hayate no Gotoku! already set for the Regular Season. For Sakagami Tomoyo and Maria to rely on the second and possibly third Preliminary rounds to advance to the Regular Season shows the decline in popularity of both shows. In order to regain the pride of their series, they must win this match at any cost. Elite 7-member Tomoyo is looking to make a major comeback after a surprising loss to Eucliwood Hellscythe. The silver maiden under the moonlight will literally do anything to regain her place in the Regular Season. Prodigy and maid Maria will need to take things to a different level if she does not want to lose here. The war between CLANNAD and Hayate no Gotoku! begins in Bracket K. Which one of these veterans will come out the winner? |
Sengoku Nadeko (Bakemonogatari)
vs. Akemi Homura (Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica)
After a much needed victory, Akemi Homura needs to shift gears if she wants to defeat a member of the Top 16, Sengoku Nadeko. Despite not having any new material, Nadeko is still coming out strong and ready for the Regular Season once again. This may be an easy match for her, but snakes can sometimes intimidate the wrong species. With the recent development in her series, Homura continues to become stronger with each passing minute. She needs to know if the power that she has harnessed is enough to bring her to the Regular Season, and what better way to test this strength than to a member of the Top 16? Can Homura use her power efficiently to defeat her opponent, or will Nadeko re-introduce the fate of her friend to her? Having squandered the opportunity to gain early entry into the Regular Season in Phase I of the Preliminaries, Sengoku Nadeko now capitalizes on a relatively easier draw this time around by crushing Taneshima Poplar with a 2,956 vote advantage. This bodes ill for Akemi Homura who, despite having emerged victorious over Kanzaki Kaori, is clearly in dire need of raising her game by leaps and bounds if she is to keep her hopes of participating in ISML 2011 alive. While recent developments to Homura's character in the Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica series may have brought some much needed boost in strength, it comes off a little too late as her previous rounds' results have shown in comparison to her other rivals. Even with such a handicap, Akemi Homura is clearly not one to back down from a challenge, driven by unyielding determination and a "never say die" attitude. So as the second round of the Phase II Preliminaries kicks off, will Sengoku Nadeko continue her seemingly inexorable advance, or can Homura finally achieve the level of play that she has been seeking for so long? |
Thanks to hinakatbklyn, Kiopi, and Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase II, Day 4 — Round 3
Fujibayashi Kyō (CLANNAD) vs. Holo (Spice and Wolf)
[ Show more... ]
Fujibayashi Kyō and Holo have fought in some of the greatest matches in all of the moe tournaments, but the one match that dwarfed them all was against each other. In the final round of Korean Best Moe 2008, these two illustrious maidens fought in what is now possibly considered as the greatest match in moe history. At a record-breaking 13,037 votes, the highest amount of votes in a one-on-one match, Holo defeated Kyō by a mere 31 votes in order to become the 2008 Korean Best Moe Champion. Fast forward to the present time, and Kyō and Holo again find themselves desperate to make it to the Regular Season by any means necessary. With the decline in popularity for CLANNAD, Kyō may be weak enough for Holo's victory and advance. Kyō will have to take out every thick, hard-cover translation book that she has if she is going to move on beyond this match. For the right to return to the main stage, will the wise wolf cleverly navigate this obstacle, or will the older twin resort to her strength and force her way past her opponent? |
Sakagami Tomoyo (CLANNAD) vs. Sanzen'in Nagi (Hayate no Gotoku!)
The war between CLANNAD and Hayate no Gotoku! will end with this match. The stake could not be any higher: the ability to return to the Regular Season once more. Things are not looking good for either of these girls, for each has lost her strength from the previous year. For Sakagami Tomoyo to fall because of an up and rising newcomer and for Sanzen'in Nagi to lose to another long-time veteran, could it be that their time is up? Neither of the girls wish this, and they have to prove once more that they are capable of standing against their individual opponents in this year's ISML. Can the student council president gather enough support to participate in the Regular Season, or will the rich otaku find a way out of this mess and shrewdly arrive at the Regular Season without a fight? |
Thanks to Momento10 for contributing today's match previews.
Phase III, Day 1 — Round 1
Fate Testarossa (Mahō Shōjo Lyrical Nanoha)
vs. Shiomiya Shiori (Kami nomi zo Shiru Sekai)
vs. Yūno Arashiko (MM!)
vs. Akemi Homura (Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica)
vs. Shiina Mafuyu (Seitokai no Ichizon)
vs. Erza Scarlet (Fairy Tail)
vs. Alice (Pandora Hearts)
vs. Haibara Ai (Detective Conan)
[ Show more... ]
At this point, it is only a matter of survival. One false move will be the end of their ISML careers. The all-powerful Fate Testarossa may not be so powerful anymore. After an upset loss from newcomer Seraphim, Fate cannot afford to underestimate anyone else who is new to ISML. The quiet one, Shiomiya Shiori, always keeps her comments to herself with a book in hand. If she wants to make it to ISML, she needs to step up to the plate and be more aggressive, for the quiet ones are usually the first to get chewed and spit out. The one who tries her best, Yūno Arashiko, needs to help herself first before helping others. With her senior as one of the possible contenders to advance to ISML via this phase, Arashiko does not want to be left out, for she usually needs her in order to get through the day. The one who fights in the shadows, Akemi Homura, is possibly the only girl from her series who has the potential to represent Puella Magi Madoka ☆ Magica in ISML. Homura will have to take out every weapon in her arsenal and wipe out as many contestants as possible so that she is not one of the first few to say goodbye to ISML for good. The soft-spoken Shiina Mafuyu should not have a problem with advancing because she was ranked relatively high last year. However, like Fate, now is not a good time to underestimate anyone because everyone has equal chances of passing and failing. The serious one Erza Scarlet may need to rethink her game plan. Having fluctuating results in both phases, Erza cannot afford to have her strength fluctuate anymore. Alice, the cynical one, has no time to fool around and eat meat. She has more than enough time to celebrate after she makes it into the Regular Season. Until then, Alice needs to come up with a plan that will allow her to continue onto the next round with the minimal amount of votes required. With her change of heart, Haibara Ai is probably the weakest member in this group. Despite this, anything can happen in ISML, so there is a silver thread of hope for her as well as other potentially weak members. The question is whether or not she can reach for that shred of hope and proceed to the next round with everyone else. At the end of day, few will remain, and the rest will be eliminated from the competition for good. Which of these girls will advance; which will be the first to fall? |
Thanks to Momento10 for contributing today's match preview.
Phase III, Day 2 — Round 2
Kushieda Minori (Toradora!)
vs. Isurugi Mio (MM!)
vs. Hiiragi Tsukasa (Lucky ☆ Star)
vs. Shiina (Angel Beats!)
vs. Sanzen'in Nagi (Hayate no Gotoku!)
vs. Busujima Saeko (Highschool of the Dead)
vs. Furude Rika (Higurashi no Naku Koro ni)
vs. Sakurano Kurimu (Seitokai no Ichizon)
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There is no time for tears and sorrow for those who have left. The only option is to continue forward in the struggle to stay on top. The energetic and athletic Kushieda Minori is one step closer to reunion with Aisaka Taiga. In order for her to do so, she needs to continue her pace while having a decent score to move onto the final round. Second Volunteer Club president Isurugi Mio barely made it past the cut-off mark, but this win allows her to continue onto the next phase. With a match-up as tight as this, she cannot afford any more close call matches. The light-headed Hiiragi Tsukasa had a very strong performance against her group. This proves that a veteran like her still has it, despite not having much material over the past few years. Quiet Shiina did very well in her performance against her group. If she can continue this pace, we may be able to see her in the Regular Season. Sanzen'in Nagi, the rich otaku, proved her worth and dominated over her contenders. The 2010 Double Elimination participant does not want her glory from the past to disappear so soon. Noble Busujima Saeko luckily finds herself in the competition, despite having a poor performance in the previous phase. Lady Luck may not continue to fight with her anymore, so she has to put everything that she has into this match or face elimination. The all-knowing Furude Rika managed to make it to the next round. She needs to do whatever she can to continue to the final phase to make up for her lackluster performance. Cute student council president, Sakurano Kurimu, is looking to continue her momentum after a powerful performance in her group. Neither one of these competitors wishes to leave home anytime soon, but there is not enough room for all of them in the Regular Season. After all is said and done, which of these contestants will move onto the next round, and which will be sent packing their belongings and go home? |
Thanks to Momento10 for contributing today's match preview.
Phase III, Day 3 — Round 3
Hirasawa Ui (K-ON!)
vs. Hiiragi Tsukasa (Lucky☆Star)
vs. Fate Testarossa (Mahō Shōjo Lyrical Nanoha)
vs. Cecilia Alcott (IS <Infinite Stratos>)
vs. Illyasviel von Einzbern (Fate/stay night)
vs. Yūki Mikan (To LOVE-Ru)
vs. Index L. Prohibitorum (Toaru Majutsu no Index)
vs. Nakagawa Kanon (Kami nomi zo Shiru Sekai)
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The fourth quarter; the last inning; the final stretch. From here on out, the contestants are either in or out for good, and veterans such as Hiiragi Tsukasa and Fate Testarossa cannot make any small mistakes. One wrong move for either of them could mean the end of their 2011 careers. Girls who know the general ropes around this tournament—Hirasawa Ui, Illyasviel von Einzbern, Yūki Mikan, and Index L. Prohibitorum, for example—need to step up to the plate if they wish to make it to the Regular Season. For a newcomer, like Cecilia Alcott or Nakagawa Kanon, a victory would allow her a first taste of ISML. Only three of these girls are allowed to enter the Regular Season, and it will be a fight to the death to see who will obtain those three seats. Out of these eight girls who are marvelous in their own ways, which of them shall obtain the ultimate roller coaster experience known as ISML? |
Thanks to Momento10 for contributing today's match preview.
Seeding Phase, Day 1
No match previews were submitted in this round.
Seeding Phase, Day 2
No match previews were submitted in this round.
Seeding Phase, Day 3
Tachibana Kanade (Angel Beats!)
vs. Nakano Azusa (K-ON!)
vs. Shana (Shakugan no Shana)
vs. Akiyama Mio (K-ON!)
vs. Katsura Hinagiku (Hayate no Gotoku!)
vs. Aisaka Taiga (Toradora!)
vs. Nagato Yuki (Suzumiya Haruhi no Yūutsu)
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While only a seeding match, today's match-up is of particular interest as our seven contestants for today have been either runner-ups or champions at some point in Saimoe circuit history, and no less than four of them are dual title holders. Furthermore, this will be the last seeding match before the Regular Season begins. First among the four is Shana, who became dual title holder by becoming the 2007 Korea Super Best Moe Champion and 2008 Chinese Saimoe Co-champion (alongside C.C. of Code Geass). This feat was to be repeated again in 2009 when Korea Best Moe (KBM) 2007 Champion Katsura Hinagiku captured the International Saimoe (ISML) 2009 Tiara. It was also in that very same year that Aisaka Taiga captured the Japan Saimoe (AST) 2009 and KBM 2009 crown by defeating Hirasawa Yui and Hiiragi Kagami, respectively. Akiyama Mio followed suit in the footsteps of Taiga the very next year in ISML 2010, as well as KBM 2010. Also joining in are AST 2010 winner, Nakano Azusa, and runner-ups from ISML 2008 and KBM 2010, Nagato Yuki and Tachibana Kanade. While slightly over a month has passed since the Preliminaries started, Tachibana Kanade has shaken up the hierarchy of power by scoring large victories that none of her rivals are able to match. This will be the perfect opportunity for her to assess where she stands among the elites. Nonetheless, old favorites die hard and a brutal fight is to be expected for every single vote as our contestants jockey for choice positions to kick-start the Regulars. And so, let the match begin! |
Thanks to Kiopi for contributing today's match preview.