I'm still in early stages of my introduction to weird literature no doubt, I've only gotten a taste of Arthur Machen, Lovecraft, Robert W. Chambers, Edgar Allan Poe, Algernon Blackwood, Laird Barron and Tanith Lee. I am well aware there are countless more.

But I have to say, none of these works were quite like the first four stories of The King in Yellow. Don't get me wrong, I do not criticise, if anything more power to them (I only couldn't bring myself to go through the works of Tanith Lee. Again not a criticism of any kind, I just haven't found a work from "New Weird" that appeals to me I guess, but of course I am open to suggestions).

I am in search of more subtle and psychologically-heavy works of weird like that of KIY. works whose primary concern is not necessarily unfathomable alien artifacts or overt supernatural phenomena, but the encounter with the weird itself, alteration of one's perception of the world and focus on more abstract concerns like beauty, truth, and revelation, hovering at the threshold between insanity and enlightenment. Where the weird is used to heighten such themes, rather than being the primary subject itself.

Just as as short anecdotal example, I love how in Chambers' weird works, the change and the encounter with weird is always subtle at first, and if it does escalate it is never reasonably material but psychologically thrilling. But in Machen's works, it feels more like a material story where the psychological aspect is slightly weaker and the material consequences and the "weird itself" are of paramount value.

I may be completely off and I would be more than delighted to remedy my ignorance. If you guys could perhaps recommend me some works (from any genre or in any format), or offer a perspective that might change the way I'm approaching the genre, I would greatly appreciate it.

I'm still in early stages of my introduction to weird literature no doubt, I've only gotten a taste of Arthur Machen, Lovecraft, Robert W. Chambers, Edgar Allan Poe, Algernon Blackwood, Laird Barron and Tanith Lee. I am well aware there are countless more.

But I have to say, none of these works were quite like the first four stories of The King in Yellow. Don't get me wrong, I do not criticise, if anything more power to them (I only couldn't bring myself to go through the works of Tanith Lee. Again not a criticism of any kind, I just haven't found a work from "New Weird" that appeals to me I guess, but of course I am open to suggestions).

I am in search of more subtle and psychologically-heavy works of weird like that of KIY. works whose primary concern is not necessarily unfathomable alien artifacts or overt supernatural phenomena, but the encounter with the weird itself, alteration of one's perception of the world and focus on more abstract concerns like beauty, truth, and revelation, hovering at the threshold between insanity and enlightenment. Where the weird is used to heighten such themes, rather than being the primary subject itself.

Just as as short anecdotal example, I love how in Chambers' weird works, the change and the encounter with weird is always subtle at first, and if it does escalate it is never reasonably material but psychologically thrilling. But in Machen's works, it feels more like a material story where the psychological aspect is slightly weaker and the material consequences and the "weird itself" are of paramount value.

I may be completely off and I would be more than delighted to remedy my ignorance. If you guys could perhaps recommend me some works (from any genre or in any format), or offer a perspective that might change the way I'm approaching the genre, I would greatly appreciate it.

So I bought it and currently it is charging. I've created a Kobo account and connected it to it. Now what would you guys recommend me to do:

1. Are there specifics you think I should fiddle with, maybe a beta feature or smt

2. Should I install KOReader etc are there apps or plugins you recommend?

Since figuring these kinda stuff require some on hands experience I wanted to get your opinion. Any advice is welcome!

I’m looking to buy my first ereader, and designwise and honestly, just overall vibe/ecosystem-wise, Kobo Libra Colour really appeals to me.

That said, I keep seeing people online mention that the screen contrast is noticeably worse than something like a Kindle Paperwhite. I have astigmatism, so comfortable and easy reading is pretty important to me, and I’m a little worried the lower contrast might cause more eye strain.

For those of you who have actually used a Libra Colour, especially if you’ve also used a Paperwhite: how noticeable is the difference in day to day reading? Is the Libra Colour significantly harder to read or do you feel like the contrast issue gets a bit overblown online?

I really want to like the Libra Colour, but I also don’t want to prioritize design/features over basic reading comfort. Would love to hear your experiences.

Hey everyone! I'm kind of stuck between Kobo Libra Colour and Kindle Paperwhite Signature, well I guess its more like being stuck between color and black and white. I wouldnt mind buying a black and white Kobo as well if you guys recommend it:

I wanted to ask you guys, how durable are these ereaders? Like if I dont have a screen protector would that be a huge deal? I am extremely new to the ecosystem and for now can only buy one ebook reader, I was originally going for Kobo for the Color but people claim Kindle Paperwhite is like the holy grail of Kindles when it comes to convenience (like 1 12 week battery life and very good contrast).

How has been your experience are you satisfied with your purchase? Any kind of guidance and/or first hand experience would greatly be appreciated.

I'm kind of stuck between Kobo Libra Colour and Kindle Paperwhite Signature. I wanted to ask you guys, how durable are kindles? Like if I dont have a screen protector would that be a huge deal? I am extremely new to the ecosystem and for now can only buy one ebook reader, I was originally going for Kobo for the Color but people claim Kindle Paperwhite is like the holy grail of Kindles when it comes to convenience (like 1 12 week battery life and very good contrast). How has been your experience are you satisfied with your purchase?

¡Hola a todos!

Estoy considerando mudarme a Uruguay demostrando ingresos pasivos, aprender español mientras vivo allí y, si todo sale bien, establecerme de forma permanente.

Por lo que he investigado, Uruguay parece ser un país bastante seguro y tranquilo, aunque las estadísticas de delincuencia me generan algunas dudas. ¿Qué tan expuesto o en riesgo estaría un extranjero que llega completamente solo? ¿Hay zonas, situaciones o precauciones específicas que debería tener en cuenta?

Mi intención es integrarme de verdad: aprender el idioma, adaptarme a las costumbres locales, vestirme de una manera discreta y no llamar innecesariamente la atención. Quiero convivir con respeto y no comportarme como alguien que espera que el país se adapte a él.

Lo único que busco es vivir en un país libre, tranquilo, alejado de guerras y con pocos riesgos de grandes desastres naturales, trabajar o vivir de mis ingresos de forma legal y pagar los impuestos que correspondan.

Muchas gracias por cualquier consejo u opinión.

¡Hola a todos!

Estoy considerando mudarme a Uruguay demostrando ingresos pasivos, aprender español mientras vivo allí y, si todo sale bien, establecerme de forma permanente.

Por lo que he investigado, Uruguay parece ser un país bastante seguro y tranquilo, aunque las estadísticas de delincuencia me generan algunas dudas. ¿Qué tan expuesto o en riesgo estaría un extranjero que llega completamente solo? ¿Hay zonas, situaciones o precauciones específicas que debería tener en cuenta?

Mi intención es integrarme de verdad: aprender el idioma, adaptarme a las costumbres locales, vestirme de una manera discreta y no llamar innecesariamente la atención. Quiero convivir con respeto y no comportarme como alguien que espera que el país se adapte a él.

Lo único que busco es vivir en un país libre, tranquilo, alejado de guerras y con pocos riesgos de grandes desastres naturales, trabajar o vivir de mis ingresos de forma legal y pagar los impuestos que correspondan.

Muchas gracias por cualquier consejo u opinión.

¡Hola a todos!

Estoy considerando mudarme a Uruguay demostrando ingresos pasivos, aprender español mientras vivo allí y, si todo sale bien, establecerme de forma permanente.

Por lo que he investigado, Uruguay parece ser un país bastante seguro y tranquilo, aunque las estadísticas de delincuencia me generan algunas dudas. ¿Qué tan expuesto o en riesgo estaría un extranjero que llega completamente solo? ¿Hay zonas, situaciones o precauciones específicas que debería tener en cuenta?

Mi intención es integrarme de verdad: aprender el idioma, adaptarme a las costumbres locales, vestirme de una manera discreta y no llamar innecesariamente la atención. Quiero convivir con respeto y no comportarme como alguien que espera que el país se adapte a él.

Lo único que busco es vivir en un país libre, tranquilo, alejado de guerras y con pocos riesgos de grandes desastres naturales, trabajar o vivir de mis ingresos de forma legal y pagar los impuestos que correspondan.

Muchas gracias por cualquier consejo u opinión.

Hi everyone! I used to work as a software engineer, but I left my job about six months ago to focus on developing myself in the arts. I expect to have a portfolio within the next year.

What kinds of immigration pathways are generally available for people pursuing an artistic career? I have enough savings to cover roughly two to three years of living expenses without earning any income, and I also have an amount of passive income.

I’m looking for countries where I could get a vise via living primarily on passive income or move to while searching for work in the art field. Which countries would be the best options visa-wise? I've found Uruguay but I personally would prefer a more conveniently located country I guess, though moving is ultimately my absolute goal.

Unfortunately, there are no S&B or Golden Curry roux boxes available in my country, but I found this curry spice blend with the ingredients listed above. Would you recommend using it to make Japanese curry?

Ingredients: Turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cumin, cardamom, ginger, paprika, red pepper flakes, fenugreek, black pepper, orange peel powder, nutmeg, garlic powder, onion powder, star anise, fennel powder, cloves, allspice, bay leaf powder, and thyme.

Unfortunately, there are no S&B or Golden Curry roux boxes available in my country, but I found this curry spice blend with the ingredients listed above. Would you recommend using it to make Japanese curry?

Ingredients: Turmeric, coriander, cinnamon, cumin, cardamom, ginger, paprika, red pepper flakes, fenugreek, black pepper, orange peel powder, nutmeg, garlic powder, onion powder, star anise, fennel powder, cloves, allspice, bay leaf powder, and thyme.

Long post ahead, but a very important one for me, also you would have the opportunity to rip me apart so please enjoy!

Hey everyone,

I’m a former software/AI engineer and I’m now thinking about changing careers and getting into digital entertainment. I’ve saved enough money to support myself, even if I go with my Japan plan.

Right now, I’m basically trying to find reasons not to learn Japanese, move there, and study there. I want to explain my plan and the other options I’m considering, and I’d really appreciate honest opinions.

You can be as negative and brutal as you want. I know some people on Reddit enjoy destroying unrealistic plans, so feel free to go all in.

1) Japan

My current plan is to go to a language school in Japan starting in April next year. By then, I’ll probably be around N4 for sure, and maybe close to N3. I would also be using this time to improve my creative skills although the time is limited and I will be self taught so I'm not sure how effective it would be.

I’m thinking of studying at the language school for around one to one and a half years, and then applying to a senmon gakkō.

The two schools I’ve looked into are Japan Electronics College and Tokyo Animation College. From what I understand, graduating from these kinds of schools can also give international students some time to look for a job afterward (6+6 months).

I’d probably choose a CG-related course. Their programs seem to include a mix of 2D art, 3D modelling, animation, and other production skills. They also seem to have some connections with companies in the industry.

While studying, I’d like to work part-time for maybe ten hours a week and spend the rest of my time studying, improving my portfolio, going to job fairs, networking, and trying to get any kind of real experience.

I’d honestly be fine starting as an underpaid junior or assistant. My goal would be to eventually get an underpaid full-time job at a Japanese entertainment company, preferably in games, animation, or something related. At the beginning, I wouldn’t care too much about the salary as long as the job gives me experience and qualifies me for a work visa.

After that, I imagine there are two possible outcomes.

Either I enjoy living in Japan, manage to find work, and try to stay there long-term.

Or I can’t find a job, or realize Japan isn’t for me, and return home.

I currently live in a developing country. There is a growing interest in Asian games, animation, and entertainment here especially within the newer generation, but there are almost no proper schools or institutions teaching these things.

So one possibility is that if I return, I could eventually start some kind of school, training program, or studio. I will be one of the few people in my country with actual knowledge of Japanese production methods and workflows.

There are some indie projects coming out here, but because very few people have real industry experience, most of them stay at a pretty low level. Maybe there could be an opportunity to help improve that.

Of course, the downside is that I would have spent a big part of my savings without any guarantee of building a stable career.

2) Singapore

My second option is to go to MAGES Institute in Singapore and study concept art and game art for one year.

The main issue is the price. One year there costs around 2.5 times more than one year of language school or vocational school in Japan.

So it’s much more expensive, even though the program is shorter.

From what I’ve found, the school also doesn’t give me a clear path to stay and look for work after graduation. Unless I somehow find a job while studying, which seems unlikely since I’d still be a beginner, I would probably just return home after finishing the course.

3) Stay home and self-study ( or Go 3D with a local school )

My third option is to stay in my country and go the self-taught route.

I already bought Marc Brunet’s Art School program. I could treat it like a full-time job for a year, study from nine to five, and focus completely on building a strong portfolio. After that, I could try to join indie projects or apply for entry-level work.

Financially, this is probably the safest option, but it also feels like the most uncertain.

I could also go full 3D. There is also a local 3D art and animation course I could take. It costs around $2,500 and includes nine months of classes, four days a week, plus a three-month internship. I could use this program to build a portfolio and go to Europe for institutions like Future Games in Poland or Sweden etc. but again these are more 3D related specific routes.

The problem is that the local industry is almost dead. Most of the available work is either low-quality mobile games or children’s shows, and I honestly have no interest in either of those. Also if I do go to Europe I will only have the work wisa for the country I went to so for example if I were to go to Belgium or Poland I would have to look for jobs in those countries and that is compared to Japan is an extremely limited pool.

So, how unrealistic is the Japan plan?

I know studying in Japan doesn’t guarantee a job. I know the entertainment industry is competitive, salaries can be bad, working conditions can be rough, and being a foreigner changing careers as a beginner makes everything harder.

At the same time, I’m really frustrated because I can’t choose between these options. The indecision is stopping me from fully committing to any of them and making good use of my time. I also have to make the decision this month since admissions for all these options are drawing near.

Obviously, I’m not going to make a major life decision based on one Reddit comment. But I’d really like to hear from people who are natives, or have experience with Japan, vocational schools, immigration, or the entertainment industry. Any of these would help me tremendously, sometimes its the wisdom of a stranger that lights the way.

Any thoughts, criticism, or personal experiences would be appreciated.

Long post ahead, but a very important one for me, also you would have the opportunity to rip me apart so please enjoy!

Hey everyone,

I’m a former software/AI engineer and I’m now thinking about changing careers and getting into digital entertainment. I’ve saved enough money to support myself, even if I go with my Japan plan.

Right now, I’m basically trying to find reasons not to learn Japanese, move there, and study there. I want to explain my plan and the other options I’m considering, and I’d really appreciate honest opinions.

You can be as negative and brutal as you want. I know some people on Reddit enjoy destroying unrealistic plans, so feel free to go all in.

1) Japan

My current plan is to go to a language school in Japan starting in April next year. By then, I’ll probably be around N4 for sure, and maybe close to N3. I would also be using this time to improve my creative skills although the time is limited and I will be self taught so I'm not sure how effective it would be.

I’m thinking of studying at the language school for around one to one and a half years, and then applying to a senmon gakkō.

The two schools I’ve looked into are Japan Electronics College and Tokyo Animation College. From what I understand, graduating from these kinds of schools can also give international students some time to look for a job afterward (6+6 months).

I’d probably choose a CG-related course. Their programs seem to include a mix of 2D art, 3D modelling, animation, and other production skills. They also seem to have some connections with companies in the industry.

While studying, I’d like to work part-time for maybe ten hours a week and spend the rest of my time studying, improving my portfolio, going to job fairs, networking, and trying to get any kind of real experience.

I’d honestly be fine starting as an underpaid junior or assistant. My goal would be to eventually get an underpaid full-time job at a Japanese entertainment company, preferably in games, animation, or something related. At the beginning, I wouldn’t care too much about the salary as long as the job gives me experience and qualifies me for a work visa.

After that, I imagine there are two possible outcomes.

Either I enjoy living in Japan, manage to find work, and try to stay there long-term.

Or I can’t find a job, or realize Japan isn’t for me, and return home.

I currently live in a developing country. There is a growing interest in Asian games, animation, and entertainment here especially within the newer generation, but there are almost no proper schools or institutions teaching these things.

So one possibility is that if I return, I could eventually start some kind of school, training program, or studio. I will be one of the few people in my country with actual knowledge of Japanese production methods and workflows.

There are some indie projects coming out here, but because very few people have real industry experience, most of them stay at a pretty low level. Maybe there could be an opportunity to help improve that.

Of course, the downside is that I would have spent a big part of my savings without any guarantee of building a stable career.

2) Singapore

My second option is to go to MAGES Institute in Singapore and study concept art and game art for one year.

The main issue is the price. One year there costs around 2.5 times more than one year of language school or vocational school in Japan.

So it’s much more expensive, even though the program is shorter.

From what I’ve found, the school also doesn’t give me a clear path to stay and look for work after graduation. Unless I somehow find a job while studying, which seems unlikely since I’d still be a beginner, I would probably just return home after finishing the course.

3) Stay home and self-study ( or Go 3D with a local school )

My third option is to stay in my country and go the self-taught route.

I already bought Marc Brunet’s Art School program. I could treat it like a full-time job for a year, study from nine to five, and focus completely on building a strong portfolio. After that, I could try to join indie projects or apply for entry-level work.

Financially, this is probably the safest option, but it also feels like the most uncertain.

I could also go full 3D. There is also a local 3D art and animation course I could take. It costs around $2,500 and includes nine months of classes, four days a week, plus a three-month internship. I could use this program to build a portfolio and go to Europe for institutions like Future Games in Poland or Sweden etc. but again these are more 3D related specific routes.

The problem is that the local industry is almost dead. Most of the available work is either low-quality mobile games or children’s shows, and I honestly have no interest in either of those. Also if I do go to Europe I will only have the work wisa for the country I went to so for example if I were to go to Belgium or Poland I would have to look for jobs in those countries and that is compared to Japan is an extremely limited pool.

So, how unrealistic is the Japan plan?

I know studying in Japan doesn’t guarantee a job. I know the entertainment industry is competitive, salaries can be bad, working conditions can be rough, and being a foreigner changing careers as a beginner makes everything harder.

At the same time, I’m really frustrated because I can’t choose between these options. The indecision is stopping me from fully committing to any of them and making good use of my time. I also have to make the decision this month since admissions for all these options are drawing near.

Obviously, I’m not going to make a major life decision based on one Reddit comment. But I’d really like to hear from people who are natives, or have experience with Japan, vocational schools, immigration, or the entertainment industry. Any of these would help me tremendously, sometimes its the wisdom of a stranger that lights the way.

Any thoughts, criticism, or personal experiences would be appreciated.

Long post ahead, but a very important one for me, also you would have the opportunity to rip me apart so please enjoy!

Hey everyone,

I’m a former software/AI engineer and I’m now thinking about changing careers and getting into digital entertainment. I’ve saved enough money to support myself, even if I go with my Japan plan.

Right now, I’m basically trying to find reasons not to learn Japanese, move there, and study there. I want to explain my plan and the other options I’m considering, and I’d really appreciate honest opinions.

You can be as negative and brutal as you want. I know some people on Reddit enjoy destroying unrealistic plans, so feel free to go all in.

1) Japan

My current plan is to go to a language school in Japan starting in April next year. By then, I’ll probably be around N4 for sure, and maybe close to N3. I would also be using this time to improve my creative skills although the time is limited and I will be self taught so I'm not sure how effective it would be.

I’m thinking of studying at the language school for around one to one and a half years, and then applying to a senmon gakkō.

The two schools I’ve looked into are Japan Electronics College and Tokyo Animation College. From what I understand, graduating from these kinds of schools can also give international students some time to look for a job afterward (6+6 months).

I’d probably choose a CG-related course. Their programs seem to include a mix of 2D art, 3D modelling, animation, and other production skills. They also seem to have some connections with companies in the industry.

While studying, I’d like to work part-time for maybe ten hours a week and spend the rest of my time studying, improving my portfolio, going to job fairs, networking, and trying to get any kind of real experience.

I’d honestly be fine starting as an underpaid junior or assistant. My goal would be to eventually get an underpaid full-time job at a Japanese entertainment company, preferably in games, animation, or something related. At the beginning, I wouldn’t care too much about the salary as long as the job gives me experience and qualifies me for a work visa.

After that, I imagine there are two possible outcomes.

Either I enjoy living in Japan, manage to find work, and try to stay there long-term.

Or I can’t find a job, or realize Japan isn’t for me, and return home.

I currently live in a developing country. There is a growing interest in Asian games, animation, and entertainment here especially within the newer generation, but there are almost no proper schools or institutions teaching these things.

So one possibility is that if I return, I could eventually start some kind of school, training program, or studio. I will be one of the few people in my country with actual knowledge of Japanese production methods and workflows.

There are some indie projects coming out here, but because very few people have real industry experience, most of them stay at a pretty low level. Maybe there could be an opportunity to help improve that.

Of course, the downside is that I would have spent a big part of my savings without any guarantee of building a stable career.

2) Singapore

My second option is to go to MAGES Institute in Singapore and study concept art and game art for one year.

The main issue is the price. One year there costs around 2.5 times more than one year of language school or vocational school in Japan.

So it’s much more expensive, even though the program is shorter.

From what I’ve found, the school also doesn’t give me a clear path to stay and look for work after graduation. Unless I somehow find a job while studying, which seems unlikely since I’d still be a beginner, I would probably just return home after finishing the course.

3) Stay home and self-study ( or Go 3D with a local school )

My third option is to stay in my country and go the self-taught route.

I already bought Marc Brunet’s Art School program. I could treat it like a full-time job for a year, study from nine to five, and focus completely on building a strong portfolio. After that, I could try to join indie projects or apply for entry-level work.

Financially, this is probably the safest option, but it also feels like the most uncertain.

I could also go full 3D. There is also a local 3D art and animation course I could take. It costs around $2,500 and includes nine months of classes, four days a week, plus a three-month internship. I could use this program to build a portfolio and go to Europe for institutions like Future Games in Poland or Sweden etc. but again these are more 3D related specific routes.

The problem is that the local industry is almost dead. Most of the available work is either low-quality mobile games or children’s shows, and I honestly have no interest in either of those. Also if I do go to Europe I will only have the work wisa for the country I went to so for example if I were to go to Belgium or Poland I would have to look for jobs in those countries and that is compared to Japan is an extremely limited pool.

So, how unrealistic is the Japan plan?

I know studying in Japan doesn’t guarantee a job. I know the entertainment industry is competitive, salaries can be bad, working conditions can be rough, and being a foreigner changing careers as a beginner makes everything harder.

At the same time, I’m really frustrated because I can’t choose between these options. The indecision is stopping me from fully committing to any of them and making good use of my time. I also have to make the decision this month since admissions for all these options are drawing near.

Obviously, I’m not going to make a major life decision based on one Reddit comment. But I’d really like to hear from people who are natives, or have experience with Japan, vocational schools, immigration, or the entertainment industry. Any of these would help me tremendously, sometimes its the wisdom of a stranger that lights the way.

Any thoughts, criticism, or personal experiences would be appreciated.

Long post ahead, but a very important one for me, also you would have the opportunity to rip me apart so please enjoy!

Hey everyone,

I’m a former software/AI engineer and I’m now thinking about changing careers and getting into digital entertainment. I’ve saved enough money to support myself, even if I go with my Japan plan.

Right now, I’m basically trying to find reasons not to learn Japanese, move there, and study there. I want to explain my plan and the other options I’m considering, and I’d really appreciate honest opinions.

You can be as negative and brutal as you want. I know some people on Reddit enjoy destroying unrealistic plans, so feel free to go all in.

1) Japan

My current plan is to go to a language school in Japan starting in April next year. By then, I’ll probably be around N4 for sure, and maybe close to N3. I would also be using this time to improve my creative skills although the time is limited and I will be self taught so I'm not sure how effective it would be.

I’m thinking of studying at the language school for around one to one and a half years, and then applying to a senmon gakkō.

The two schools I’ve looked into are Japan Electronics College and Tokyo Animation College. From what I understand, graduating from these kinds of schools can also give international students some time to look for a job afterward (6+6 months).

I’d probably choose a CG-related course. Their programs seem to include a mix of 2D art, 3D modelling, animation, and other production skills. They also seem to have some connections with companies in the industry.

While studying, I’d like to work part-time for maybe ten hours a week and spend the rest of my time studying, improving my portfolio, going to job fairs, networking, and trying to get any kind of real experience.

I’d honestly be fine starting as an underpaid junior or assistant. My goal would be to eventually get an underpaid full-time job at a Japanese entertainment company, preferably in games, animation, or something related. At the beginning, I wouldn’t care too much about the salary as long as the job gives me experience and qualifies me for a work visa.

After that, I imagine there are two possible outcomes.

Either I enjoy living in Japan, manage to find work, and try to stay there long-term.

Or I can’t find a job, or realize Japan isn’t for me, and return home.

I currently live in a developing country. There is a growing interest in Asian games, animation, and entertainment here especially within the newer generation, but there are almost no proper schools or institutions teaching these things.

So one possibility is that if I return, I could eventually start some kind of school, training program, or studio. I will be one of the few people in my country with actual knowledge of Japanese production methods and workflows.

There are some indie projects coming out here, but because very few people have real industry experience, most of them stay at a pretty low level. Maybe there could be an opportunity to help improve that.

Of course, the downside is that I would have spent a big part of my savings without any guarantee of building a stable career.

2) Singapore

My second option is to go to MAGES Institute in Singapore and study concept art and game art for one year.

The main issue is the price. One year there costs around 2.5 times more than one year of language school or vocational school in Japan.

So it’s much more expensive, even though the program is shorter.

From what I’ve found, the school also doesn’t give me a clear path to stay and look for work after graduation. Unless I somehow find a job while studying, which seems unlikely since I’d still be a beginner, I would probably just return home after finishing the course.

3) Stay home and self-study ( or Go 3D with a local school )

My third option is to stay in my country and go the self-taught route.

I already bought Marc Brunet’s Art School program. I could treat it like a full-time job for a year, study from nine to five, and focus completely on building a strong portfolio. After that, I could try to join indie projects or apply for entry-level work.

Financially, this is probably the safest option, but it also feels like the most uncertain.

I could also go full 3D. There is also a local 3D art and animation course I could take. It costs around $2,500 and includes nine months of classes, four days a week, plus a three-month internship. I could use this program to build a portfolio and go to Europe for institutions like Future Games in Poland or Sweden etc. but again these are more 3D related specific routes.

The problem is that the local industry is almost dead. Most of the available work is either low-quality mobile games or children’s shows, and I honestly have no interest in either of those. Also if I do go to Europe I will only have the work wisa for the country I went to so for example if I were to go to Belgium or Poland I would have to look for jobs in those countries and that is compared to Japan is an extremely limited pool.

So, how unrealistic is the Japan plan?

I know studying in Japan doesn’t guarantee a job. I know the entertainment industry is competitive, salaries can be bad, working conditions can be rough, and being a foreigner changing careers as a beginner makes everything harder.

At the same time, I’m really frustrated because I can’t choose between these options. The indecision is stopping me from fully committing to any of them and making good use of my time. I also have to make the decision this month since admissions for all these options are drawing near.

Obviously, I’m not going to make a major life decision based on one Reddit comment. But I’d really like to hear from people who have experience with Japan, vocational schools, immigration, or the entertainment industry. Any of these would help me tremendously, sometimes its the wisdom of a stranger that lights the way.

Any thoughts, criticism, or personal experiences would be appreciated.

Hey everyone! I think Japanese curry might genuinely be my all time favorite food. I don’t know how to explain it. I just completely fell in love with it.

Unfortunately, where I live, we don’t have access to those magical curry roux blocks, so I have to make everything from scratch. I’ve tried a few recipes online, and while they were really good, they still didn’t taste quite like the curry I had in Japan.

How would you guys make it from scratch? I feel like most online tutorials are missing something. Maybe it’s just a skill issue on my side, but I’d really love to hear from people who grew up eating it or get to enjoy this deliciousness regularly. Any secret ingredients, techniques,recipes, prayers... I’m willing to do just about anything to get another taste of that little piece of heaven.

Hey everyone! I think Japanese curry might genuinely be my all time favorite food. I don’t know how to explain it. I just completely fell in love with it.

Unfortunately, where I live, we don’t have access to those magical curry roux blocks, so I have to make everything from scratch. I’ve tried a few recipes online, and while they were really good, they still didn’t taste quite like the curry I had in Japan.

How would you guys make it from scratch? I feel like most online tutorials are missing something. Maybe it’s just a skill issue on my side, but I’d really love to hear from people who grew up eating it or get to enjoy this deliciousness regularly. Any secret ingredients, techniques,recipes, prayers...I’m willing to do just about anything to get another taste of that little piece of heaven.

I’ve recently started getting interested in learning 2D art and animation, but I’ve noticed that there seem to be far fewer comprehensive resources for 2D animation compared to 3D.

I wasn’t especially interested in 2D animation before, but my family and I traveled to Japan last month, and I was completely blown away by the 2D animation and artwork I saw there. It genuinely made me want to learn how to create animation myself.

I’d especially love to study an anime or East Asian-inspired style, although I’m also open to learning Western animation techniques since I know the fundamentals are probably similar.

Does anyone have recommendations for structured, comprehensive courses, programs, or learning paths? I’m not just looking for a few isolated tutorials-I’d really like something that teaches the fundamentals step by step, such as drawing, movement, timing, posing, storyboarding, and the full animation process. I really don't know how to start it seems a bit overwhelming.

Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Hi everyone,

I’m considering studying CG animation in Tokyo, mainly at Japan Electronics College or Tokyo Animation College.

Has anyone heard of these schools, studied there, or met any graduates? I’m trying to figure out whether these schools are actually worth the time and tuition.

My Japanese will be close to N1 level, so I don’t think language would be a major problem when following classes or attending job interviews. However, I’m not sure how realistic it is for an international graduate to find work in Japan’s gaming or animation industry.

From what I understand, after graduating from a government supported senmon gakkō, international students who have not found a job may be able to change to the Designated Activities – Continued Job Hunting status, or 特定活動・継続就職活動. This usually allows you to stay for another six months, with the possibility of extending it once, giving you up to one year to look for a job.

How does this process work in practice for senmon gakkō graduates? Do these schools actually provide recommendation letters, company introductions, interview support, and meaningful help with finding employment?

I’d really appreciate hearing from anyone who studied CG or animation or simply at a senmon gakkō in Japan, works in the industry, or knows anything about these two schools.

Do you think this path makes sense, or focus on building a strong portfolio and applying for jobs directly but if i do that i would have to delay everything for a year or two which i dont really want.