I ask for little, but today I must enact our ancient covenant and beg you, our readers, for some guidance. May my plea be heard!

My brother and I Was Ben co-conspirator Gary is leaving Japan in a few weeks, and he has promised to buy me anything my heart desires. Unfortunately, I know little of Japanese pop culture trash. Any recommendations would be greatly appreciated. Here are a few things I’m interested in, just to give you an idea as to what I’m into.

Violence – I dig the Japanese crime scene, though I can only imagine such things are a little hard to come by. As you can see from my previous post, I’ve been enjoying the Pinky Violence, and anything related to knife-wielding girls in hot pants is certainly welcome. Also, bear-fighting bad boy Riki Takeuchi has dropped an album called Ma-Tsu-Ri, and that or any other Yakuza-inspired offering would be greatly appreciated. You don’t think they make Riki Takeuchi body pillows do you?

Fighting Game Memorabilia – Possibly one of the more convenient items on the list, I would like some memento devoted to a fighting game. I have no idea what might be available, but the stranger the better. If I was sure it would play on North American systems, Gary would be bringing home Tatsunoko vs. Capcom without fail. Gatchaman for the win.

Manga – I’d be interested in seeing small press stuff, really niche items, or whacked-out versions of North American properties.

Vending Machine Swag – I don’t even care what the fuck he gets. Hell, I’m tempted to get him to throw coins at that Marvel machine until a lil’ Ben Grimm pops out.

Kaiju – If there’s one thing Gary is definitely bringing home, it’s something Godzilla-related. Last year he got me a Godzilla statue and an Godzilla lighter that roars when sparked up, both of which I cherish. He had a hard time finding me Godzilla merchandise last time, but since then he’s found an entire store devoted to such delights, and now I’m spoiled for choice, though I am intrigued by that Godzilla costume built for G.I. Joes.

Once again, if I’m missing the latest must-have item, please let me know in the comments below. Thanks!