Anime Streaming Spree: Crunchy, FUNi, Naruto

At this point, I don't see how anyone could possibly keep up with Crunchyroll's online licensing frenzy: just this week, they announced they would begin streaming Black Jack, Cat Man, Glass Maiden (Crystal Blaze), Shangri-La and the 2nd Corda D'oro anime. Not to mention all their other recent acquisitions, which I couldn't be arsed to cover.

You'd think that FUNimation would be up for the challenge; but not quite. They do make decent spammers, if that's any consolation. And, to be fair, they have just announced two additional titles they are streaming as of today, thanks to a new agreement with GDH-aka-Gonzo. Namely The Tower of Druaga and Blassreiter, both with English subtitles (they're pretty late to the party with these). Optionally, users can also download them at $1.99 per episode.

By the way, FUNi had already licensed both these titles, along with others, for old-school DVD release in late 2009.

And finally Naruto: Viz has announced that episode 101of Naruto Shippuuden will be streamed on the official website on the same day that it airs in Japan, on March 26. So they're joining the "simulcast club", it seems. Color me unimpressed.