The Sacred Blacksmith: Complete Collection

[WTK]

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91ZGie1fPdL._AA1500_.jpg

http://ecx.images-amazon.com/images/I/91Ugvug4qIL._AA1500_.jpg

Mock-up Booklet
http://blog.funimation.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/sbmock_flat.jpg

The Sacred Blacksmith: Complete Collection due out on 1/25/11. | Trailer (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pj12APDUY-g)
Part 1 (Episodes 1-13) comprises of a collectible rigid hard box containing 2 slim DVD cases with reversible covers and a premium item. The collector box will have room to include the 2 slim DVD cases in Part 2. (all 4 slims will fit in to the collector box) The concept is very much similar to the Volume 1 Starter Boxes released several years ago. The SRP for this would be $5 more or $64.98 – retailers will likely price this at $43 to $52 – (cause who pays full retail?)

This will be a First Printing Limited Edition. After we have sold through all the allocated units of the first printing with the rigid box and premium– that’s it. We will then start to offer Part 1 for $59.98 SPR with a cardstock box and 2 slim DVDs- our current packaging. (retailers will likely price this at $40 to $48.)
Sacred Blacksmith – The premium item will be an 32 page art booklet with a centerfold.
Contains episodes 1-12.

Special Features: Episode Previews, Textless Opening Song, Textless Closing Song, Trailers.

Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.
In regards to the regular edition
** Note: This regular edition does not contain the rigid box and premium item included with the limited edition, and will not ship until after the limited edition has sold out.

[WTK]

This looks good. It's nothing too unexpected from what I have seen out there. I already have this pre-ordered. I'm curious of what the specs of this will include.

[Fencedude]

Oh Shi...Cecily's pissed!

Waiting for BD though.

[JmfSilentHill89]

I want the blu ray as well. I'm wondering what the extra stuff will be in this release, since it's only a 1-parter. It would still be great if they decided to do a chipboard set. I really don't care about any extras (keychains or other stuff of that ilk).

[angelx03]

A pissed Cecily makes this a GOOD cover, am I right? :cool:

[Ingraman]

I like the cover, but I'll be passing on the release in both DVD and BD forms...

[cress2000]

I kind of pre-ordered this in a hurry as filler to get free shipping on an order at TRSI and completely forgot there was the possibility of a BD version. Ah well, at least it looks very nice.

[Suwako Moriya]

Wow! Now that's a cover I can approve. Although I would have liked to have Lisa on it. Maybe, she'll be on another side.

[Suwako Moriya]

Oh Shi...Cecily's pissed!

Waiting for BD though.

Clearly she's demanding a BD release as well. Or I could be wrong. Either way, I'm also of a "wait for BD" mindset.

[Zombie_Punk]

I rather enjoy it. Simple but it works. I'm going to be waiting on it to see what the new packaging thing is and to see how blu-ray is involved.

[EyeOfPain]

Oh Shi...Cecily's pissed!

Yeah, but considering her skill, she's not that threatening.

I'm real iffy about this series itself, not even going into the DVD vs. BD thing.

[Dack Ralter]

That's a pretty nice cover. I like. I should probably wait for BD, but ah well.

[Jackle]

This is a really nice cover. Not getting it for a while though.

[Doom86]

Looks very good. I'll definitely get this eventually.

[Stratosblitz]

Looks nice. A likely addition to the collection, but yet another here possibly holding out for Blu.

[The Great Bear]

Waiting for BD though.

Same here. I wish this was one where they'd do simultaneous BD release, but sadly that doesn't happen in every case.

[Damius]

Nice cover, I hope they will release a BD.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

Oh Shi...Cecily's pissed!

Waiting for BD though.
Pissed but still cute. :)

I think I'll wait for the BD as well.

[akcoll99]

I like it, especially the font for the show's title. Very excited to finally get this on DVD...

[Buckeye]

I am quite surprised with the choice of cover, but it looks great. Certainly was looking for a happy Cecily, but a mid-battle Cecily is great.

[TheGreenMan]

Nice cover, but it needs more Aria.

[TheInfiniteAbyss]

Very nice cover... makes me to want to at least consider gettting it.

[Draneor]

Artwork is OK. I would have preferred FUNimation go with something cuter or the novelist artwork. Instead, it looks like they decided to mash-up a couple images from various DVD covers. :(

[Edit] Like this one (http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/images/B002PL5F1G/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=561958&s=dvd) or Maid Cecily (http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/images/B002PL5F1Q/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=561958&s=dvd).

Oh Shi...Cecily's pissed!

That's because Lisa isn't on the cover.

[Fencedude]

Oh Shi...Cecily's pissed!

That's because Lisa isn't on the cover.

More like because Aria isn't.

*looks again*

Oh lame, she isn't even on there in the other sense of how she could be on there. Laaaaaaaaaame

[SleepyDog]

I am quite surprised with the choice of cover, but it looks great. Certainly was looking for a happy Cecily, but a mid-battle Cecily is great.

Artwork is OK. I would have preferred FUNimation go with something cuter or the novelist artwork. Instead, it looks like they decided to mash-up a couple images from various DVD covers. :(

Since I haven't seen the show yet, how appropriately does this cover fit within the flow of events and feature characters?

Based on the number of good things I've read about the show and upon the attractive character designs, I'm probably going to get this series when it arrives, in DVD format.

[Draneor]

More like because Aria isn't.

Well, Luke took her place. In any case, I still think the cover of the third volume, with Lisa and Cecily, is the best. Instead, FUNi edited Cecily out of the first cover (http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/images/B002PL5F0W/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=561958&s=dvd) and edited everyone but Cecily out of the sixth. (http://www.amazon.co.jp/gp/product/images/B002PL5F2A/ref=dp_image_0?ie=UTF8&n=561958&s=dvd)

[HitokiriShadow]

Since I haven't seen the show yet, how appropriately does this cover fit within the flow of events and feature characters?


It displays the two main characters prominently. Cecily is the main/lead character, while Luke is the secondary main. But those two are only marginally more important than Aria and Lisa, who most people here like vastly more. It would have been better to include all four, but the cover being used, with just those two characters, is perfectly appropriate for the show.

[doubleO7]

Looks good. I'll be getting this (although I haven't decided yet if I'll get the DVD or wait for the BD).

[bci110]

The cover looks fine to me. I'll be getting the DVDs since I don't have a Blu-ray player :bigsmile: .

[SleepyDog]

Since I haven't seen the show yet, how appropriately does this cover fit within the flow of events and feature characters?


It displays the two main characters prominently. Cecily is the main/lead character, while Luke is the secondary main. But those two are only marginally more important than Aria and Lisa, who most people here like vastly more. It would have been better to include all four, but the cover being used, with just those two characters, is perfectly appropriate for the show.

Ah, thanks for the insight into all the debating here. :bowsmiley: Now I'm looking forward even more to the show's release to meet the missing pair.

[njchobitsfan]

I would get the BD, so awaiting I will do.

[WTK]

Slightly enlarged and more clear cover art added to the first post...

[WTK]

...
Part 1 (Episodes 1-13) comprises of a collectible rigid hard box containing 2 slim DVD cases with reversible covers and a premium item. The collector box will have room to include the 2 slim DVD cases in Part 2. (all 4 slims will fit in to the collector box) The concept is very much similar to the Volume 1 Starter Boxes released several years ago. The SRP for this would be $5 more or $64.98 – retailers will likely price this at $43 to $52 – (cause who pays full retail?)

This will be a First Printing Limited Edition. After we have sold through all the allocated units of the first printing with the rigid box and premium– that’s it. We will then start to offer Part 1 for $59.98 SPR with a cardstock box and 2 slim DVDs- our current packaging. (retailers will likely price this at $40 to $48.)
Sacred Blacksmith – The premium item will be an 32 page art booklet with a centerfold.

[WTK]

And it looks we may have a mock of this booklet...

http://blog.funimation.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/sbmock_flat.jpg

[angelx03]

Oh ho ho ho ho!!! Why do I have to be poor?!! :cry:

[BalmungHHQ]

FUNi has caught me hook, line, and sinker.

I wasn't planning to get this, but you can count me in now.

[cress2000]

I suddenly feel less bad about my hastiness in pre-ordering.

[Stratosblitz]

Sounds like very nice packaging/extra. I'm certainly not one to say "BD or bust" though I prefer the option...in this case I would likely be quite happy supporting a solid DVD offering like this at/near release.

[Damius]

On paper it's only 5$ more but this kind of extra make me double dip (if we ever have a BD)...so in reality it's quite more than 5$.

[joelgundam01]

Nice! I'll be picking this one up on day one.

[bci110]

And it looks we may have a mock of this booklet...

http://blog.funimation.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/sbmock_flat.jpg

Looks like it'll be a nice companion to the Sacred Blacksmith Official Complete Book that I own.

[hissatsu]

Didn't care for this show, but I have to admit that looks very nice. I hope we see similar things for other shows. And fixing certain other (@#$%ED) issues.

Of course only selfish fansub watchers care about physical extras... ;P

[Renzo]

Wow, looks nice! The show doesn't really interest me that much (plus I have read a lot of lackluster reviews) but...so many pretty extras! :beatingheart: Must...resist...

[njchobitsfan]

And it looks we may have a mock of this booklet...

http://blog.funimation.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/10/sbmock_flat.jpg

Great Gorge! That's sweet! (I guess NIS is influencing their bigger brother). Looks like I'm buying this now :beatingheart:

[Ingraman]

The book looks pretty good, but I don't want the show. It's still a no-buy.

[akcoll99]

I already have this pre-ordered but that booklet is the icing on the cake. Very nice!

[Shirou Emiya]

Hmm this series looks awesome, I'll probably rent it first and the buy it once there's a cheap box set.

[Fenris21]

Just pre-ordered this.

I really dig the box cover and I like having the art booklet as an extra. But I'm not sure why Funimation isn't sparing the embarrassment of including a "centerfold" with it. I like the show and all, but it's not like I watch it simply for the fanservice. :sweat:

In any case, I'm looking forward to it.

[ExcelGenerations]

WOW this one looks superb!

[Richard J.]

Of course only selfish fansub watchers care about physical extras... ;PWas that sarcasm or a serious statement? My detector isn't working.

Either way, yeah, you get a lot of BS "I'd buy anime if" statements from the fansub leeches (note: not all fansub watchers are true leeches but there are MANY who are.) but there are also many fans who really did want to see this return to the past of awesome with releases. Personally, I've always felt like we fans lost something when Funi stopped doing art boxes and physical extras (what few they did.)

Regardless, this seems like a net win for fans/consumers so I give it a thumbs up.

I like the show and all, but it's not like I watch it simply for the fanservice. :sweat:I watch it for the articles, er the blacksmithing. ;)

Yeah, there's plenty of reasons to like the show outside of fanservice but pay the devil his due. I was on the fence on this one but now I'm pretty much auto-budgeting for it and Phantom. I want to encourage the return to nice art boxes and physical extras.

And the centerfold. . . yes. Do want. Very. Much.

[KudosForce]

The triumphant return of physical bonuses (also known as "Feelies") is much appreciated, as I have a penchant for this sort of thing. ;) Of course, if the series in question has extras in the digital department as well (interviews with the Japanese crew would be enough, really, considering the times we're going through), that makes it all worthwhile. I can let it slide if I like the series enough, though.

With that said, I might try out this adaptation, along with the manga edition (whose French release is out here, in Canuck-land).

Also, yes, that centerfold is pretty nice. :bowsmiley:

[Otakuman1]

Howdy all!

Ive seen the booklet & its really nice.

Cover art looks good.

May pick up the set & pay the extra 5 bucks.

See ya!

[SleepyDog]

...
Part 1 (Episodes 1-13) comprises of a collectible rigid hard box containing 2 slim DVD cases with reversible covers and a premium item. The collector box will have room to include the 2 slim DVD cases in Part 2. (all 4 slims will fit in to the collector box) The concept is very much similar to the Volume 1 Starter Boxes released several years ago. The SRP for this would be $5 more or $64.98 – retailers will likely price this at $43 to $52 – (cause who pays full retail?)
Sacred Blacksmith – The premium item will be an 32 page art booklet with a centerfold.

This is exactly the kind of premium treatment to incline me toward purchasing a show I'm on the fence about as it aligns with my collector interests--an attractive hard box to hold all the eventual volumes and a substantial accompanying art book. I like the look of that mock-up booklet!

I, too, sense some impact of NIS America's recent foray into attractive animé releases aimed at the collecting personality.

[Fawul]

I wasn't really interested in this before but I am after seeing this.

I hope Funi sticks with this packaging trend.

[Dissonance]

Yup, I'm leaning towards buying this much earlier than planned so that I can get my hands on the box and that sweet, sweet art booklet. It's the kind of extra that hits my weakspot for massive damage, with lots of artwork to, uh, "appreciate".

[Damius]

It would be interesting to have a vote asking. Did the new packaging/extras made you buy this release?

[bci110]

It would be interesting to have a vote asking. Did the new packaging/extras made you buy this release?

No. I watched this series when it aired last year and loved it so I was going to buy it even if it was a "barebone" release.

[Damius]

It would be interesting to have a vote asking. Did the new packaging/extras made you buy this release?

No. I watched this series when it aired last year and loved it so I was going to buy it even if it was a "barebone" release.

I would have bought it anyway, but I was planning to wait for the BD, not anymore.

[Richard J.]

It would be interesting to have a vote asking. Did the new packaging/extras made you buy this release?I was already thinking about buying it but wasn't sure until the announcement, my plan was if I decided to get it to wait for a while due to budget issues. So the feelies induced me to want to buy it sooner rather than later and yeah, I guess to buy it period. (I've watched a little on Hulu and so far I liked it but not as much as some of the other new titles coming. My budget and time has gotten too tight to get everything I want and there are several series I'm behind on getting like Code Geass R2 and Gundam 00, which Bandai might actually finish releasing before I die of old age.)

Still, I'd likely have gotten it eventually even without the art book. It's just, I like feelies! A lot! So they encourage me to reorganize my list of priorities.

Hell, I'd love to buy some of NISA's stuff but sub-only = no sale for me, period, exceptions currently not happening. (Maybe for Hell Girl seasons 2 and 3 down the road.) Some of the other companies are coming out with some good stuff too but basically either too high of a price or no dub make them undesirable to me.

[WTK]

It would be interesting to have a vote asking. Did the new packaging/extras made you buy this release?
Nope. I was planning on buying this anyways.

[ilmaestro]

Watched it while it was airing, really enjoyed it but would have been on the fence about buying a DVD version. Will definitely be buying now.

[WTK]

Contains episodes 1-12.

Special Features: Episode Previews, Textless Opening Song, Textless Closing Song, Trailers.

Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.

[einhorn303]

Contains episodes 1-12.

Special Features: Episode Previews, Textless Opening Song, Textless Closing Song, Trailers.

Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.

So no real on-disc special features at all? (Unless the episode previews are more than I think)

So much for a more premium release.

[memyselfandi]

I would say that the packaging changes are making me more likely to get this release earlier and give it a higher priority over other releases I may want to purchase which are released in the same time window.

I do like having my collection look nice on it's shelves, (I have considered making my own artboxes for series which haven't had one but lack of anything resembling skill or talent have meant that this has never gone passed the theoretical flight of fancy) ... at times I would gives this a higher weighting over on disk extras as I tend to only watch those once, if that.

[Ingraman]

Contains episodes 1-12.

Special Features: Episode Previews, Textless Opening Song, Textless Closing Song, Trailers.

Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.

So no real special features at all? (Unless the episode previews are more than I think)

So much for a more premium release.

Heh... You get the book with pretty pictures!

When the show aired, were the next-episode trailers not attached to the episodes themselves? Anyone recall what extras were on the Japanese disc release?

[Kouji Tamino]

Contains episodes 1-12.

Special Features: Episode Previews, Textless Opening Song, Textless Closing Song, Trailers.

Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.

So no real special features at all? (Unless the episode previews are more than I think)

So much for a more premium release.

You can't license what doesn't exist... unless, of course, you're suggesting FUNimation pull Japanese Special Features from thin air. They could have made some English language ones, but they may not have had the time or money and I know not everyone cares for those.

[Damius]

Contains episodes 1-12.

Special Features: Episode Previews, Textless Opening Song, Textless Closing Song, Trailers.

Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.

So no real special features at all? (Unless the episode previews are more than I think)

So much for a more premium release.

Yeah, I would have hope to have more extras...

[Damius]

Contains episodes 1-12.

Special Features: Episode Previews, Textless Opening Song, Textless Closing Song, Trailers.

Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.

So no real special features at all? (Unless the episode previews are more than I think)

So much for a more premium release.

You can't license what doesn't exist... unless, of course, you're suggesting FUNimation pull Japanese Special Features from thin air. They could have made some English language ones, but they may not have had the time or money and I know not everyone cares for those.

Oh, so there were not extras on the Japanese release? That explains it then.

[Suwako Moriya]

So no real special features at all? (Unless the episode previews are more than I think)

The Sacred Blacksmith is one of those series where the actual airing never included any of the previews. However on the official Japanese site, there are previews for each episode including episode 1. Which show an assortment of screen caps from the episode in question.

It's possible that those previews may have be ended up on the home video release. Or alternatively they may have created a new set of previews for the home video version of the series and attached them to the episodes.

[bci110]

Contains episodes 1-12.

Special Features: Episode Previews, Textless Opening Song, Textless Closing Song, Trailers.

Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.

So no real special features at all? (Unless the episode previews are more than I think)

So much for a more premium release.

Heh... You get the book with pretty pictures!

There you go :P - and I own the artbook/episode guide for SB so the add-on that FUNi is including with the release will just be a nice supplement to the book.

[einhorn303]

Edited my post to read "on-disc extras," which is more precisely what I meant.

I figured the next-episode previews were like that, since it seems to be getting more and more common, but that's still pretty basic and should come standard.

If the R2 release was as barren I can't really complain. They could have maybe had a digitized version of the setting guides that CDJapan lists. But I'll have to withhold my judgement for now.

[HitokiriShadow]

When the show aired, were the next-episode trailers not attached to the episodes themselves? Anyone recall what extras were on the Japanese disc release?

Based on the CD Japan listings, there were no on-disc extras at all (which is very unusual, usually there's at least *something* even if only episode commentary tracks). Just first press slip-covers, and 'setting guides' or a chapter of newly-written story by the original author, depending on the volume.

[Buckeye]

Contains episodes 1-12.

Special Features: Episode Previews, Textless Opening Song, Textless Closing Song, Trailers.

Spoken Languages: English, Japanese, English subtitles.

So no real special features at all? (Unless the episode previews are more than I think)

So much for a more premium release.

Heh... You get the book with pretty pictures!

When the show aired, were the next-episode trailers not attached to the episodes themselves? Anyone recall what extras were on the Japanese disc release?
If anything, that book added on by itself makes it premium. And if there are no extras on the Japanese release, then ther isn't really anything Funi can do about that.

[einhorn303]

Yeah, I can't fault Funi for not providing something that doesn't exist. I must apologize to them for thinking so curtly. And the solicitations for Black Butler and Phantom look like a real step up in terms of extras.


If anything, that book added on by itself makes it premium. And if there are no extras on the Japanese release, then ther isn't really anything Funi can do about that.

I think the way I look at R1 releases is that the most desirable content is anything that involves translation to English, since that's something that can't be imported or gotten with any R2 version. Like, you could probably see the same artwork in the Japanese artbook.

[magicalgirlj]

looks nice, a possible rental for me

[Ingraman]

Heh... You get the book with pretty pictures!

When the show aired, were the next-episode trailers not attached to the episodes themselves? Anyone recall what extras were on the Japanese disc release?
If anything, that book added on by itself makes it premium. And if there are no extras on the Japanese release, then ther isn't really anything Funi can do about that.

Yeah, I agree with your comment about both the book, and Funi's lack of ability to add things that don't exist. I loved NISA's Toradora! sets for both their outsized boxes and books.

I'm still not going to buy Blacksmith, though ("premium" release or even when it makes it to SAVE status). I liked the art/character designs, but thought that the plot wasn't terribly interesting. ^_^

[WTK]

Enlarged 3D cover art added to the first post...

[WTK]

Flat cover art added to the first (also used as the artwork for the reg release)...

[WTK]

via TRSI (http://www.rightstuf.com/rssite/main/news/individual/?ForumThreadName=FT0000001947&Offset=0&ReturnTo=Archive)
Gift With Purchase: Pre-Order Sacred Blacksmith L.E., Receive Fan Towel
Posted on: Monday, December 6,2010

Pre-order the Sacred Blacksmith Limited Edition Complete DVD Series (http://www.rightstuf.com/i/fun08865), and while supplies last, also receive a collectible fan towel. This collection is scheduled for release January 25, 2011, so place your order today!

All customers who have already pre-ordered this collection will automatically receive the towel.

Check out the item listing (http://www.rightstuf.com/i/fun08865) to view the series trailer plus an exclusive 2 minute clip!
While supplies last, customers ordering this Sacred Blacksmith limited edition set will also receive an exclusive 11" x 17" fan towel featuring Cecily!

http://www.rightstuf.com/cms/action/ItemDescription?ItemDescriptionTypeName=ALTERNATE_ IMAGE_1&ItemName=fun08865&LanguageIsoName=en

[Daichi]

That's not revealing in the slightest.

[BalmungHHQ]

Holy wow... so I'm getting a nice towel without even knowing it (I already preordred the set)... awesome... :nosebleed:

Thanks you FUNi and Rightstuf :bowsmiley:

[WTK]

Holy wow... so I'm getting a nice towel without even knowing it (I already preordred the set)... awesome... :nosebleed:

Thanks you FUNi and Rightstuf :bowsmiley:
Same for me. It's definitely a pleasant surprise.

[EmperorBrandon]

So is this a TRSI-exclusive item? Guess I really need to get to ordering this immediately.

[WTK]

So is this a TRSI-exclusive item? Guess I really need to get to ordering this immediately.
It seems it may be. RACS may offer it, but outside that it's not very likely.

[cress2000]

While supplies last, customers ordering this Sacred Blacksmith limited edition set will also receive an exclusive 11" x 17" fan towel featuring Cecily!

I likey. Since I'm going in blind I really hope I like the show itself.

[EmperorBrandon]

I likey. Since I'm going in blind I really hope I like the show itself.

You can watched the first two dubbed episodes of FUNimation's video site if you want to try it out (or all of it subtitled).

[joelgundam01]

Holy wow... so I'm getting a nice towel without even knowing it (I already preordred the set)... awesome... :nosebleed:

Thanks you FUNi and Rightstuf :bowsmiley:
Same for me. It's definitely a pleasant surprise.

Same here! It's a nice added bonus.

[Hayate Kurogane]

Holy wow... so I'm getting a nice towel without even knowing it (I already preordred the set)... awesome... :nosebleed:

Thanks you FUNi and Rightstuf :bowsmiley:
Same for me. It's definitely a pleasant surprise.

Same here! It's nice added bonus.

Same here too, though I'd settle for just knowing the DVD content not going to be poorly modified in any way as we've seen happening to a number of releases that entered production in proximity to this series.

[WTK]

So is this a TRSI-exclusive item? Guess I really need to get to ordering this immediately.
It seems it may be. RACS may offer it, but outside that it's not very likely.
It's confirmed (http://blog.funimation.com/2010/12/sacred-blacksmith-limited-edition-towel-right-stuf/) to be an TRSI exclusive.

[Hayate Kurogane]

So is this a TRSI-exclusive item? Guess I really need to get to ordering this immediately.
It seems it may be. RACS may offer it, but outside that it's not very likely.
It's confirmed (http://blog.funimation.com/2010/12/sacred-blacksmith-limited-edition-towel-right-stuf/) to be an TRSI exclusive.

Yeah, but you know that's not going to stop Robert from ordering a bunch of them to resell.

[Ingraman]

Was she bustied up just for this picture? Well, it's been a while since I last saw any of the animation. The Funi logo at the bottom kinda detracts from the image.

The towel still can't get me to buy this series...

[psychopuppet]

While supplies last, customers ordering this Sacred Blacksmith limited edition set will also receive an exclusive 11" x 17" fan towel featuring Cecily!

I was happy with the artbox and artbook so this makes me right giddy.

So I take it Rightstuf will just add it to existing pre-orders with the next
orders page updates? I don't think I've ordered anything that had something added later on.

[Hayate Kurogane]

While supplies last, customers ordering this Sacred Blacksmith limited edition set will also receive an exclusive 11" x 17" fan towel featuring Cecily!

I was happy with the artbox and artbook so this makes me right giddy.

So I take it Rightstuf will just add it to existing pre-orders with the next
orders page updates? I don't think I've ordered anything that had something added later on.

Yes, that's how they generally handle such things.

[Betenoire]

So is this a TRSI-exclusive item? Guess I really need to get to ordering this immediately.
It seems it may be. RACS may offer it, but outside that it's not very likely.
It's confirmed (http://blog.funimation.com/2010/12/sacred-blacksmith-limited-edition-towel-right-stuf/) to be an TRSI exclusive.

Yeah, but you know that's not going to stop Robert from ordering a bunch of them to resell.

And complaining that the towel at TRSI is a sign of what is wrong with the R1 industry. :devil:

[Damius]

Holy wow... so I'm getting a nice towel without even knowing it (I already preordred the set)... awesome... :nosebleed:

Thanks you FUNi and Rightstuf :bowsmiley:
Same for me. It's definitely a pleasant surprise.

Same here! It's nice added bonus.

Indeed. It will be my first ever towel!

[Damius]

So is this a TRSI-exclusive item? Guess I really need to get to ordering this immediately.
It seems it may be. RACS may offer it, but outside that it's not very likely.
It's confirmed (http://blog.funimation.com/2010/12/sacred-blacksmith-limited-edition-towel-right-stuf/) to be an TRSI exclusive.

Oh! Great!! Thanks TRSI!!!

[hikaru004]

So is this a TRSI-exclusive item? Guess I really need to get to ordering this immediately.
It seems it may be. RACS may offer it, but outside that it's not very likely.
It's confirmed (http://blog.funimation.com/2010/12/sacred-blacksmith-limited-edition-towel-right-stuf/) to be an TRSI exclusive.

Yeah, but you know that's not going to stop Robert from ordering a bunch of them to resell.

And complaining that the towel at TRSI is a sign of what is wrong with the R1 industry. :devil:

I'll cheer Robert on for this one.

I see that the series is promoted to live up to the rep of the "sacred breastplate". :P

[cress2000]

I likey. Since I'm going in blind I really hope I like the show itself.

You can watched the first two dubbed episodes of FUNimation's video site if you want to try it out (or all of it subtitled).

Yeah, I just checked out the dub streams. Looks like it's one of those shows that could take a few more episodes for me to really get into. I like fantasy stuff, so I'll keep my pre-order.

[njchobitsfan]

Holy wow... so I'm getting a nice towel without even knowing it (I already preordred the set)... awesome... :nosebleed:

Thanks you FUNi and Rightstuf :bowsmiley:
Same for me. It's definitely a pleasant surprise.

Same here! It's nice added bonus.

Indeed. It will be my first ever towel!

Same here :nosebleed:

[EmperorBrandon]

It's confirmed (http://blog.funimation.com/2010/12/sacred-blacksmith-limited-edition-towel-right-stuf/) to be an TRSI exclusive.

So, I wonder, just how limited this exclusive might be? Are we certain to get if we order while the bold notice is still up on Right Stuf's listing? Just placed my order since it's convenient to do so now, with Midori Days (which I've always been curious to try) being heavily discounted and adding up to free shipping.

[WTK]

It's confirmed (http://blog.funimation.com/2010/12/sacred-blacksmith-limited-edition-towel-right-stuf/) to be an TRSI exclusive.

So, I wonder, just how limited this exclusive might be? Are we certain to get if we order while the bold notice is still up on Right Stuf's listing? Just placed my order since it's convenient to do so now, with Midori Days (which I've always been curious to try) being heavily discounted and adding up to free shipping.
These bonus add-ons typically don't run out before the release date. However you would never know (if the demand for this is high). I believe the mouse pad for Linebarrels of Iron Part 1 ran out perhaps before the street date.

[Betenoire]

Holy wow... so I'm getting a nice towel without even knowing it (I already preordred the set)... awesome... :nosebleed:

Thanks you FUNi and Rightstuf :bowsmiley:
Same for me. It's definitely a pleasant surprise.

Same here! It's nice added bonus.

Indeed. It will be my first ever towel!

Same here :nosebleed:

Really? How do you two dry off after showering/bathing then?

Or are you the crowd people joke about when it comes to hygiene?

:P

[pachinko parlor]

Towel no longer on listing. Oh well. :cry:

[WTK]

Towel no longer on listing. Oh well. :cry:
So it didn't even last a month. It's definitely one of the faster ones (to sell out) that I have seen in the last few years.

[EmperorBrandon]

Towel no longer on listing. Oh well. :cry:

Well, I guess it did sell out fast enough for them (almost a month before release). I'm glad I got to ordering it as soon as I could.

[Damius]

Towel no longer on listing. Oh well. :cry:
So it didn't even last a month. It's definitely one of the faster ones (to sell out) that I have seen in the last few years.

I wonder how many they had. Now I don't regret at all to pre-ordered that on day 1.

[njchobitsfan]

Towel no longer on listing. Oh well. :cry:
So it didn't even last a month. It's definitely one of the faster ones (to sell out) that I have seen in the last few years.

I wonder how many they had. Now I don't regret at all to pre-ordered that on day 1.

Same here :)

[Richard J.]

Wow, the towel is gone already? Glad I sent a fast pre-order. Supposedly I've got one coming to me. :)

I love pre-order premiums. They should do more of them and fewer convention extras. (Biased desire, I usually can't make cons!)

This will be my first anime art towel. A few more useful household items and I'll be able to fully furnish my otaku lair.

[bored@lazy]

I've had this preordered since day 1 but my trsi order was never updated to mention the bonus towel... Is that the same for everyone else or does their order specifically mention it?

[EmperorBrandon]

I've had this preordered since day 1 but my trsi order was never updated to mention the bonus towel... Is that the same for everyone else or does their order specifically mention it?

My order specifically mentions it:
1 of SACRED BLACKSMITH TOWEL PROMO

I placed my order after the towel was announced, though.

[Damius]

I've had this preordered since day 1 but my trsi order was never updated to mention the bonus towel... Is that the same for everyone else or does their order specifically mention it?

It doesn't and I placed my order day 1.

[WTK]

I've had this preordered since day 1 but my trsi order was never updated to mention the bonus towel... Is that the same for everyone else or does their order specifically mention it?
I have gotten an explanation from DLK less a week ago:
This is a problem because there is an auto-insert of the special towel on there. Once the product ships, this will reappear. We're working on this issue, but as long as you see it in your open orders you'll be fine.

[cress2000]

Guess I should be even more glad that I pre-ordered during the last FUNi sale.

[bored@lazy]

I have gotten an explanation from DLK less a week ago:
This is a problem because there is an auto-insert of the special towel on there. Once the product ships, this will reappear. We're working on this issue, but as long as you see it in your open orders you'll be fine.

Thanks, but doesn't second line sort of contradict the first? DLK says it'll appear on the order when it ships, but also says it should appear in "open orders"... Unless I'm simply misunderstanding him?

[joelgundam01]

I have gotten an explanation from DLK less a week ago:
This is a problem because there is an auto-insert of the special towel on there. Once the product ships, this will reappear. We're working on this issue, but as long as you see it in your open orders you'll be fine.

Thanks, but doesn't second line sort of contradict the first? DLK says it'll appear on the order when it ships, but also says it should appear in "open orders"... Unless I'm simply misunderstanding him?

I also read it the same as you did. However, the line can be read in a couple ways.

Remember, this was a direct response to WTK, so it's possible that the last line was directed at him regarding the DVD set.

[WTK]

I have gotten an explanation from DLK less a week ago:
This is a problem because there is an auto-insert of the special towel on there. Once the product ships, this will reappear. We're working on this issue, but as long as you see it in your open orders you'll be fine.

Thanks, but doesn't second line sort of contradict the first? DLK says it'll appear on the order when it ships, but also says it should appear in "open orders"... Unless I'm simply misunderstanding him?

I also read it the same as you did. However, the line can be read in a couple ways.

Remember, this was a direct response to WTK, so it's possible that the last line was directed at him regarding the DVD set.
I had asked the listing back then no longer have the "On Order from Manufacturer" text blurb toward the top of the product listing after the towel promo started. It looks like it had to do something with the item number. I guess if you don't feel conformable, you can always email him directly.

[Buckeye]

Towel no longer on listing. Oh well. :cry:
That sure was fast. I was tempted by it, but was not a big priority for me to get.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

Towel no longer on listing. Oh well. :cry:
That sure was fast. I was tempted by it, but was not a big priority for me to get.
Maybe if the series gets a BD release they may do the towel thing again but I doubt it. The towel was nice but the the show that matters and I may pick up the set during the next studio sale.

[Damius]

I had asked the listing back then no longer have the "On Order from Manufacturer" text blurb toward the top of the product listing after the towel promo started. It looks like it had to do something with the item number. I guess if you don't feel conformable, you can always email him directly.

At this time, do you see the text blurb on the top of the page or not?

[WTK]

I had asked the listing back then no longer have the "On Order from Manufacturer" text blurb toward the top of the product listing after the towel promo started. It looks like it had to do something with the item number. I guess if you don't feel conformable, you can always email him directly.

At this time, do you see the text blurb on the top of the page or not?
Yes.
This item appears on the following order:


Order number: xxxxxxxx, order placed on: Oct 14 2010, item status: On Order From Manufacturer, more information

[Damius]

Ok thanks...so I'm good.

[Daimao Raki]

I want this so bad.

[psychopuppet]

I emailed CS about the towel since it did not show up on my order page and got this response.

Although we cannot guarantee that you will receive the promotional towel that is to come with item number FUN08865 - Sacred Blacksmith DVD Complete Series (Hyb) Limited Edition, your order has been noted to include this promotional item.

The reason that we cannot guarantee you will receive the towel is because we don't know for sure how many of these items we will receive.

[Damius]

I emailed CS about the towel since it did not show up on my order page and got this response.

Although we cannot guarantee that you will receive the promotional towel that is to come with item number FUN08865 - Sacred Blacksmith DVD Complete Series (Hyb) Limited Edition, your order has been noted to include this promotional item.

The reason that we cannot guarantee you will receive the towel is because we don't know for sure how many of these items we will receive.

Just by curiosity, when did you place your order?

[psychopuppet]

I emailed CS about the towel since it did not show up on my order page and got this response.

Although we cannot guarantee that you will receive the promotional towel that is to come with item number FUN08865 - Sacred Blacksmith DVD Complete Series (Hyb) Limited Edition, your order has been noted to include this promotional item.

The reason that we cannot guarantee you will receive the towel is because we don't know for sure how many of these items we will receive.

Just by curiosity, when did you place your order?

It was October 21st .

[Damius]

I emailed CS about the towel since it did not show up on my order page and got this response.

Although we cannot guarantee that you will receive the promotional towel that is to come with item number FUN08865 - Sacred Blacksmith DVD Complete Series (Hyb) Limited Edition, your order has been noted to include this promotional item.

The reason that we cannot guarantee you will receive the towel is because we don't know for sure how many of these items we will receive.

Just by curiosity, when did you place your order?

It was October 21st .

Ok. Thanks. Mine was done the 22nd...

[lcummins]

My order doesn't show the towel either... I called CS today and was told there was a note to include the towel with my order, but it just doesn't show up in the order. I placed my order on October 15th.

[bored@lazy]

I emailed DLK the other day and the towel magically appeared on my order the next day. :P

[Damius]

I emailed DLK the other day and the towel magically appeared on my order the next day. :P

I think I'll do the same.

[bored@lazy]

I emailed DLK the other day and the towel magically appeared on my order the next day. :P

I think I'll do the same.

I just hope he doesn't get annoyed with a bunch of people contacting him about a towel... :P

[TheLaughingMan]

Strangely, my order mentions it and it's already reserved to boot...! (the towel, well...the boxset too of course!)

[cress2000]

Strangely, my order mentions it and it's already reserved to boot...! (the towel, well...the boxset too of course!)

Huh, mine isn't yet. Maybe after tonight's system update. Not too surprising since TRSI seems to ship most things about three weeks before street date.

EDIT: Still "On Order"...

[Damius]

Well, I sent an e-mail to DLK, I made my order October 22nd, he answered:

Your order was placed before the promotion began, so the towel data is included as a comment on the order. Rest assured, you will get one.

[Talyn]

While the towel is a neat idea... it's not like an end of the world thing for me. I already have enough goodies I'll never use from collections in the past... I hope to pick the set up during the next Funi sale if I'm not already bankrupt from everything else I need vs. want...

[joelgundam01]

Well, I sent an e-mail to DLK, I made my order October 22nd, he answered:

Your order was placed before the promotion began, so the towel data is included as a comment on the order. Rest assured, you will get one.

It looks like I'm also safe then. I made my order on 11/1, which was also before the promotion started.

[Richard J.]

While the towel is a neat idea... it's not like an end of the world thing for me. I already have enough goodies I'll never use from collections in the past... I hope to pick the set up during the next Funi sale if I'm not already bankrupt from everything else I need vs. want...Think of the goodies as investments. One day, some crazy otaku will want them and then, on that day, you shall reap a fine reward for your service to our Funi Overlords.

*****

Heh, as long as you aren't really going bankrupt, get what you want and let yourself enjoy it. One of the greatest disservices people do to themselves is forcing themselves to accentuate the negative all the time. Embrace that which makes you happy and just grin.

I mean, we're all dead in 2012 right? Dang Mayans and their calendar.

[Talyn]

Think of the goodies as investments. One day, some crazy otaku will want them and then, on that day, you shall reap a fine reward for your service to our Funi Overlords.

*****

Heh, as long as you aren't really going bankrupt, get what you want and let yourself enjoy it. One of the greatest disservices people do to themselves is forcing themselves to accentuate the negative all the time. Embrace that which makes you happy and just grin.

I mean, we're all dead in 2012 right? Dang Mayans and their calendar.


Oh I do...I just think my tastes for the extra stuff has changed. I'm not knocking anyone who likes the stuff; I'd just like to see Funi really consider the audience for their series. It's kinda like the whole idea of collecting toy figures and never opening them... I dont wanna make money of it, I want to use them. The Lucky Star t-shirts, the God Panties, etc... I mean, really?... I know it's good to see things like this coming back for LE's. I'm not being negative, just more realistic for what I'd like to see in the LE's... We've all got different tastes, so to each their own... Anywho... *moving on*

[ooga]

Think of the goodies as investments. One day, some crazy otaku will want them and then, on that day, you shall reap a fine reward for your service to our Funi Overlords.

*****

Heh, as long as you aren't really going bankrupt, get what you want and let yourself enjoy it. One of the greatest disservices people do to themselves is forcing themselves to accentuate the negative all the time. Embrace that which makes you happy and just grin.

I mean, we're all dead in 2012 right? Dang Mayans and their calendar.


Oh I do...I just think my tastes for the extra stuff has changed. I'm not knocking anyone who likes the stuff; I'd just like to see Funi really consider the audience for their series. It's kinda like the whole idea of collecting toy figures and never opening them... I dont wanna make money of it, I want to use them. The Lucky Star t-shirts, the God Panties, etc... I mean, really?... I know it's good to see things like this coming back for LE's. I'm not being negative, just more realistic for what I'd like to see in the LE's... We've all got different tastes, so to each their own... Anywho... *moving on*

Say what you will but the Hellsing blood pack was the best LE packin ever! :P

[lcummins]

I'd love to see them do more collector coins like they did for Spice and Wolf, and Slayers. Or something more "collectible" similar to those, which can't be obtained anywhere else.

[SleepyDog]

... I hope to pick the set up during the next Funi sale if I'm not already bankrupt from everything else I need vs. want...

Need vs. want in terms of animé? Is there a difference? ;) Or is it that need means "purchase now regardless of price" and want means "wait for a sale"?

[Talyn]

Or is it that need means "purchase now regardless of price" and want means "wait for a sale"?

This! :sd:

[akcoll99]

Say what you will but the Hellsing blood pack was the best LE packin ever! :P

I remember the girl I was dating at the time couldn't stop laughing about the bloodpack when that came out. She thought it was the most absurd thing ever, though I always liked it. I guess it's a good thing we weren't dating when the Shuffle "God" panties came out then, she would have died laughing... :sweat:

[WTK]

Quick Snapshots (artbox alternate side and info/spec sheet embedded below):


Thinpak 1 - Exterior (http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/1953/thinpak1exterior.jpg)
Thinpak 1 - Interior (http://img221.imageshack.us/img221/4311/thinpak1interior.jpg)
Thinpak 2 - Exterior (http://img96.imageshack.us/img96/1958/thinpak2exterior.jpg)
Thinpak 2 - Interior (http://img155.imageshack.us/img155/7927/thinpak2interior.jpg)
Spacer - Side 1 (http://img51.imageshack.us/img51/9312/spacerside1.jpg)
Spacer - Side 2 (http://img145.imageshack.us/img145/8087/spacerside2.jpg)
http://img831.imageshack.us/img831/8499/artboxalternateside.jpg

http://img207.imageshack.us/img207/3295/infosheet.jpg

[WTK]

Quick Snapshots (artbox alternate side and info/spec sheet embedded below):
No major artwork used on the disc arts. The artbook is quite nice. The bonus towel was all right, but the coloring feels kind of faint.

Overall the packaging on this LE release was really good. You get series artwork on the various packaging material everywhere you look.

[Damius]

Overall the packaging on this LE release was really good. You get series artwork on the various packaging material everywhere you look.

That's really good! Thanks for the pics! Too bad the towel is not as good as it could have been...

[TheLaughingMan]

That looks great. As always thanks for the pics WTK!

[Draneor]

"From the creator of Shuffle" is extremely misleading. At least one staff member (Suzuki Masashi--series composition) worked on both anime, but anime studios--with few exceptions--are not responsible for the majority of the creativity in a property--the original authors are. At least, be accurate if that's the connection they are going with.

Also, what's the point of advertising that you can watch the video online on the back of the DVD you presumably bought?

[james_039]

Also, what's the point of advertising that you can watch the video online on the back of the DVD you presumably bought?

That always cracked me up, the part about, "You should be watching funimation.com/[show]"

Hmm, best to follow their own advice, I should definitely log in and watch that instead of buying it. ;)

[EmperorBrandon]

"From the creator of Shuffle" is extremely misleading. At least one staff member (Suzuki Masashi--series composition) worked on both anime, but anime studios--with few exceptions--are not responsible for the majority of the creativity in a property--the original authors are.

They don't even really share the same animation studio or director even. Suzuki Masashi for series composition is the only significant credit shared between both. He's the head writer, but yeah, he's only adapting, and very different material at that, so it's a pretty dumb connection to make.

[cress2000]

I just got mine, towel and all (ordered Oct 15th; well before the promotion). I'm quite fine with my towel, actually. I think It looks very good from a couple feet away. Can't post any pics since I'm kind of stuck with only a PS3 to browse the web at the moment.

[Hayate Kurogane]

"From the creator of Shuffle" is extremely misleading. At least one staff member (Suzuki Masashi--series composition) worked on both anime, but anime studios--with few exceptions--are not responsible for the majority of the creativity in a property--the original authors are.

They don't even really share the same animation studio or director even. Suzuki Masashi for series composition is the only significant credit shared between both. He's the head writer, but yeah, he's only adapting, and very different material at that, so it's a pretty dumb connection to make.

Hey, loose connections worked for CPM, so why not? Hey, it's marketing! Vaguely incorrect and misleading statements are the rule, not the exception!

[Fencedude]

"From the creator of Shuffle" is extremely misleading. At least one staff member (Suzuki Masashi--series composition) worked on both anime, but anime studios--with few exceptions--are not responsible for the majority of the creativity in a property--the original authors are.

They don't even really share the same animation studio or director even. Suzuki Masashi for series composition is the only significant credit shared between both. He's the head writer, but yeah, he's only adapting, and very different material at that, so it's a pretty dumb connection to make.

Hey, loose connections worked for CPM, so why not? Hey, it's marketing! Vaguely incorrect and misleading statements are the rule, not the exception!

This is especially strange because its not like its hard to make better connections, lets see:

From the Director of: Linebarrels of Iron, Pokemon (!)
From the Animation Studio behind Ergo Proxy

[ooga]

Quick Snapshots (artbox alternate side and info/spec sheet embedded below):


Damit WTK!!! I was going to cancel my preorder at Amazon and those pics you posted made me reconsider my decision. Can you post some pics of the book? That will really make me change my mind.

[EmperorBrandon]

This is especially strange because its not like its hard to make better connections, lets see:

From the Director of: Linebarrels of Iron, Pokemon (!)
From the Animation Studio behind Ergo Proxy

Samurai Champloo, as well, on the animation studio angle. I'm surprised they didn't try that since that seems fairly "mainstream". Shuffle did apparently sell well for them, though...

[Draneor]

Hey, loose connections worked for CPM, so why not? Hey, it's marketing! Vaguely incorrect and misleading statements are the rule, not the exception!

I think marketing works best when it's, you know, true.

[Fencedude]

Hey, loose connections worked for CPM, so why not? Hey, it's marketing! Vaguely incorrect and misleading statements are the rule, not the exception!

I think marketing works best when it's, you know, true.

Thats terribly naive of you.

[Talyn]

Hey, loose connections worked for CPM, so why not? Hey, it's marketing! Vaguely incorrect and misleading statements are the rule, not the exception!

I think marketing works best when it's, you know, true.

Suddenly I'm remembering "100 panty shots in 30 seconds".....:sd: Seriously though....marketing is applying whatever pull you can get ffrom whatever aspect you can tie it to and relate it to your audience. Truth in marketing is only as far as you can throw it...

[Prede]

Well I dig this cover. I like the way the characters are placed on it. Will get this show eventually...

[Jeremy J.]

I really, really want to get this. The release is so well done. The only problem is that I've heard the show is garbage. Is it really as bad as people make it out to be?

[WTK]

Quick Snapshots (artbox alternate side and info/spec sheet embedded below):


Damit WTK!!! I was going to cancel my preorder at Amazon and those pics you posted made me reconsider my decision. Can you post some pics of the book? That will really make me change my mind.
The booklet is fantastic. I will try to get a few pics here by sometime tomorrow.

[Fudce]

OK - the images of this are very misleading. The artbook looked nice in the picture and it's just a small cheaply stapled book (more like a catalogue of art than an artbook).

Also what's with the spacewaste? If you're gonna use an artbox big enough to hold two regular DVD cases - USE two regular DVD cases, not just thinpaks. Padding half of the box out with a spacer just isn't cricket.

[Draneor]

OK - the images of this are very misleading. The artbook looked nice in the picture and it's just a small cheaply stapled book (more like a catalogue of art than an artbook).

Also what's with the spacewaste? If you're gonna use an artbox big enough to hold two regular DVD cases - USE two regular DVD cases, not just thinpaks. Padding half of the box out with a spacer just isn't cricket.

That does not sound good. While I'll reserve judgement until I get my own copy, it sounds like FUNimation may have pretended to put out a premium release but actually half-assed it. If this is the case, certainly, I may avoid paying for the premium in the future.

[Fudce]

I don't have my camera to hand, but I can describe what's in the box (and the box itself)

The box itself isn't bad. It's about as big as an ADV 4disc thinpak, with the thickness of a good ADV artbox. Pretty standard makeup with artwork on two sides. Inside you have two regular Funi thinkpaks which are likely the same ones as from their non-LE version, and the artbook looks and feels very similar to a PS2 game manual (only with slightly better paper).

The rest of it is made up by the spacer, which is the same width as the two thinpaks together. It has artwork on the sides, but just text on the spines. It's just light card folded into a box.

[bored@lazy]

The rest of it is made up by the spacer, which is the same width as the two thinpaks together. It has artwork on the sides, but just text on the spines. It's just light card folded into a box.

Why the hell would they have a spacer for a 2 disc set? I though the artbook would cover the rest of the space that the discs didn't... Either way $5 extra for a set containing a hard chipboard box and an art booklet is still worth it for me.

[psychopuppet]

Just got mine and the towel in the mail today. It seems like the book was meant to be put inside of the spacer box ,but for some reason was not. Everything looks quite nice and really like the artbox. Will be going the LE route for all of the series that have them that I want when a Funimation sale pops up.

[ooga]

Quick Snapshots (artbox alternate side and info/spec sheet embedded below):


Damit WTK!!! I was going to cancel my preorder at Amazon and those pics you posted made me reconsider my decision. Can you post some pics of the book? That will really make me change my mind.
The booklet is fantastic. I will try to get a few pics here by sometime tomorrow.

Thanks WTK. I have cancelled my preorder for the moment. Will place it again if that booklet is as drool-worthy as I would imagine it is.

[tigeress02]

Just got mine and the towel in the mail today. It seems like the book was meant to be put inside of the spacer box ,but for some reason was not. Everything looks quite nice and really like the artbox. Will be going the LE route for all of the series that have them that I want when a Funimation sale pops up.Got mine today as well. I actually stuck the towel inside the spacer box. I'm iffy on the art book, but I was mostly looking forward to the box so I'm good.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

If anyone can could you post pictures of the towel and/or book? I'm curious how the towel looks when laid out.

[WTK]

Quick Snapshots (artbox alternate side and info/spec sheet embedded below):


Damit WTK!!! I was going to cancel my preorder at Amazon and those pics you posted made me reconsider my decision. Can you post some pics of the book? That will really make me change my mind.
The booklet is fantastic. I will try to get a few pics here by sometime tomorrow.

Thanks WTK. I have cancelled my preorder for the moment. Will place it again if that booklet is as drool-worthy as I would imagine it is.
I did a quick make-shift collage: LINK (http://img257.imageshack.us/img257/6870/artbookcroppedsmall.jpg). The resolution isn't great, but it should give you an idea what it's like.

[WTK]

The rest of it is made up by the spacer, which is the same width as the two thinpaks together. It has artwork on the sides, but just text on the spines. It's just light card folded into a box.

Why the hell would they have a spacer for a 2 disc set? I though the artbook would cover the rest of the space that the discs didn't... Either way $5 extra for a set containing a hard chipboard box and an art booklet is still worth it for me.
The only thing I can think of is to keep the size consistency of the other LEs (Black Butler and Phantom thus far). It's not the end of the world for me as turn my artbox the other way anyways when it's on the shelf.

[EmperorBrandon]

I just got this in today, and looking through the artbook, I'm really quite happy with it. The most interesting thing to me is there's a few pages at the beginning with artwork from the original novel illustrator Luna (really like his style), which I wasn't really expecting (thought it would be only in the anime style, which I like too though). Love his illustration of Charlotte's group, particularly with the sexy Doris there. Really happy FUNi got to include an extra like this.

[Dissonance]

While I would have gone crazy for a NISA-style hardback book, the extra was always advertised as a "booklet", bringing to mind something less extravagant. And for a $5 premium, I wasn't expecting too much. I have no issue with paying that for the boxes alone.

Thanks for all the pictures, WTK. It's just a matter of time before my resolve weakens...

[Senku]

I just got mine, towel and all (ordered Oct 15th; well before the promotion). I'm quite fine with my towel, actually. I think It looks very good from a couple feet away. Can't post any pics since I'm kind of stuck with only a PS3 to browse the web at the moment.

At first, I was going to be disappointed by the print job. But then I felt the towel, and it can honest to goodness be used as an actual hand towel! (go figure) The only other towel I have to compare with is my huge Louise towel, and that was definitely made to be looked at; not to be used as a towel (regularly). So overall, I liked this extra.

The Box is nice, and the character art booklet is very good. Someday I may pry out that Cecily pin-up, but not anytime soon.

As for the spacewaster, yeah it was made to take up space; and you can't really throw it away 'cause there's nothing else to put in the box; but it can hold the booklet just fine. (and it can probably hold the towel too) So it's not really a negative for me. Plus I didn't think Funi was going to use the old standard DVD cases to take up space anyway.

Overall, I'm pretty happy with Funi's first foray back onto the collectors scene.

[bci110]

I just got this in today, and looking through the artbook, I'm really quite happy with it. The most interesting thing to me is there's a few pages at the beginning with artwork from the original novel illustrator Luna (really like his style), which I wasn't really expecting (thought it would be only in the anime style, which I like too though). Love his illustration of Charlotte's group, particularly with the sexy Doris there. Really happy FUNi got to include an extra like this.

I got mine today (technically it came yesterday but I had to pick it up at the post office since they don't leave packages at the apartments anymore) and I also like the structure of the booklet. I kind of wish that they put the Luna artwork in the Episode Guide/Official Complete Book, but I am glad the FUNi managed to display the works on the booklet as there were a couple of them that I particularly like. (The Aria illustration was my favorite).

A good set overall, and I was able to removed the back cover without damaging the box. So right there that's a winner in my book :P .

[bci110]

The rest of it is made up by the spacer, which is the same width as the two thinpaks together. It has artwork on the sides, but just text on the spines. It's just light card folded into a box.

Why the hell would they have a spacer for a 2 disc set? I though the artbook would cover the rest of the space that the discs didn't... Either way $5 extra for a set containing a hard chipboard box and an art booklet is still worth it for me.

Well yeah, that's what the spacer is for. It even says on the spine "The Art of The Sacred Blacksmith" so I would guess that the spacer is used to store the booklet.

[HitokiriShadow]

The rest of it is made up by the spacer, which is the same width as the two thinpaks together. It has artwork on the sides, but just text on the spines. It's just light card folded into a box.

Why the hell would they have a spacer for a 2 disc set?

It seems like Funi is making just one box size for everything. So rather than make different sized boxes for one and two set shows, they all have the same sized box. Obviously, this poses a bit of a problem for one cour shows.... though I guess it also works out well for doing a DVD/BD combo set like Ga-Rei zero. I guess they determined that its cheaper for them to create all boxes the same size and make those space fillers when rather needed than to deal with multiple types of boxes.

[Orihimes_Boyfriend]

The rest of it is made up by the spacer, which is the same width as the two thinpaks together. It has artwork on the sides, but just text on the spines. It's just light card folded into a box.

Why the hell would they have a spacer for a 2 disc set?

It seems like Funi is making just one box size for everything. So rather than make different sized boxes for one and two set shows, they all have the same sized box. Obviously, this poses a bit of a problem for one cour shows.... though I guess it also works out well for doing a DVD/BD combo set like Ga-Rei zero. I guess they determined that its cheaper for them to create all boxes the same size and make those space fillers when rather needed than to deal with multiple types of boxes.
Well it would also leave room if and when they grab second seasons of a show. Like what they are doing with shows like Phantom. To me it seems like they are doing what Sony did when they released the Blood+ box set.

[Whoomp]

The rest of it is made up by the spacer, which is the same width as the two thinpaks together. It has artwork on the sides, but just text on the spines. It's just light card folded into a box.

Why the hell would they have a spacer for a 2 disc set?

It seems like Funi is making just one box size for everything. So rather than make different sized boxes for one and two set shows, they all have the same sized box. Obviously, this poses a bit of a problem for one cour shows.... though I guess it also works out well for doing a DVD/BD combo set like Ga-Rei zero. I guess they determined that its cheaper for them to create all boxes the same size and make those space fillers when rather needed than to deal with multiple types of boxes.
Makes you wonder why they didn't just go with regularly sized dvd-cases as that would fully fill out the box.

[Richard J.]

Makes you wonder why they didn't just go with regularly sized dvd-cases as that would fully fill out the box.Maybe they already paid for the thinpacks?

Looking forward to my order arriving. It still hasn't though. Sad panda.

[Kouji Tamino]

It seems like Funi is making just one box size for everything. So rather than make different sized boxes for one and two set shows, they all have the same sized box. Obviously, this poses a bit of a problem for one cour shows.... though I guess it also works out well for doing a DVD/BD combo set like Ga-Rei zero. I guess they determined that its cheaper for them to create all boxes the same size and make those space fillers when rather needed than to deal with multiple types of boxes.
Makes you wonder why they didn't just go with regularly sized dvd-cases as that would fully fill out the box.[/QUOTE]

1. There wouldn't be enough room for the booklet.
2. It means that they would have to use them for the 'regular edition' release as well, since the only difference between the two is the box and bonus item.

[WTK]

For the video visual: Hey, Nice Package! (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MlSZFoDw10o) is now up.

EDIT...and for those who missed out on the bonus towel, there is a contest @ FUNi Blog (http://blog.funimation.com/2011/01/hey-nice-package-the-sacred-blacksmith/)

[Shsway]

Shuffle did apparently sell well for them, though...

Good to hear, because I LOVED Shuffle. :catgirl: But yeah, misleading is misleading.

This release is just hot stuff. I'm gonna have to order my copy soon...

[WTK]

Regular Edition - Back Slip/Insert

http://cdn3a.dvdempire.org/products/94/1557394bh.jpg