And so, we are here at the end of 2021. It has been an interesting one, to say the least. While I commend 2021 as a year that has driven me to personal success and kicking new goals – in my day-to-day job, The Otaku’s Study and in my general welling – the trials and tribulations associated with it have undoubtedly impacted many people.
The recent surges in COVID-19 cases here in Australia are troubling, with 21,151 cases discovered on 30 Dec in New South Wales and thousands in other Australian states. While there is an indication that things will be going full steam ahead for the time being, to varying degrees depending on where you live, there is always a lingering possibility that things could surge out of control and we end up in another extended lockdown that takes weeks or even months to get out of. As we enter 2022, I implore everyone to stay as safe as they can – get their booster shots when they can – and do everything they can to ride out what is hopefully the tail end of this pandemic.
With so many releases in the anime, gaming, manga, performing arts, and visual novel spaces in-store for 2022, there is a lot to be excited about going into next year! As always, I look forward to bringing you up-to-date news and reviews for as much as I can next year, and I endeavour to be much more timely about it than I was in 2021.
Of course, some questions need to be asked, such as…
- Will CyberPunk 2077 ever make it to the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X|S?
- What is the next journey to the Warrior of Light in Final Fantasy XIV?, and
- What spin-off game awaits Neptune and the CPU Goddesses in the Neptunia franchise in 2022?
I want to take this time to thank everyone who has read The Otaku’s Study this year and the many people I have collaborated, interviewed and engaged with.
The Otaku’s Study is still in a transitory period to ensure a better balance of my schedule and resources, to ensure it can keep going for the next fifteen years without compromising quality. I am excited to bring you new series, new ideas, and detailed reviews/commentary in 2022.
May you and your loved ones have a Happy New Year! May 2022 be full of endless happiness, ear-ringing laughter, memorable moments, and enjoyable moments enjoying the otaku niches you love.
