• The photo above is a backdrop taken from the last anime I watched. Can you tell what it is just by the background? Check your answer, plus tons more photos, at a new Tumblr, AnimeBackgrounds. 

• The Japan Society hosted a discussion between two experts on modern Japanese culture about the definition of “otaku.” It’s fascinating how the two have almost polar opposite definitions of what it means to be otaku.

• Meanwhile, Artemis wrote an insightful post about how many fans are reluctant to call themselves otaku. You already know how I feel about the identity, but in the comments, I put in my two cents about why.

• Zoe told me about this potential cosplay reality TV show on SyFy, and we’re in agreement that it’s either going to be amazing or terrible.

• If you’ve ever found yourself saying, “I don’t have the body for cosplay,” think again. Do what talented cosplayers do and use makeup to transform from a human beings into a 3D version of your favorite 2D character. In a slightly not-safe-for-work example, I was amazed by this cosplay cleavage tutorial!

• Lawrence Brenner (the guy who filmed my panel) shared some panels he shot at PAX about gaming and the transgender community. Here’s a discussion of trans characters, and here’s industry insiders talking about what it’s like to be trans in the gaming world.

• Finally, “newspaper reporter” is the worst job of 2013. Is anyone surprised? I would like to point out that the job of “Internet reporter” is still pretty cool.