Almost none of the streets in Japan have names, and even when they do, civil planners are pretty haphazard about putting up signs to let you know what they are. As a result, it’s hard to get anywhere in a car without a GPS system guiding you.
But after enough time behind the wheel, you might find yourself getting bored of the default voice chirping out you to “make a right turn in 30 meters.” So if you’re feeling a little burned out on your navigation system, or nabi as it’s known in Japan, now might be the time to update it with the voice of Evangelion’s Asuka, Attack on Titan’s Arumin, or one of dozens of other available anime characters.
On its website, GPS provider Maplus promises “More fun, more pleasure on your navigation life.” We’re not sure we’d call our connection to digital maps a “navigation life,” but there’s no denying the playful spirit behind its Voice Actor Navi series.
Compatible with the company’s Maplus for Smartphone app, Voice Actor Navi currently has a roster of 34 voice actors, ranging from industry veterans to up-and-coming talent. On September 22, Yuko Minaguchi, the voice of Sailor Saturn, fashionable judo girl Yawara, and Nene Anegasaki from smash hit dating simulator LovePlus joined the crew.
This isn’t a way for fading stars to milk a few last bits of revenue out of their dying careers, either. The voices behind some of the industry’s most popular characters are involved, such as Aoi Yuki (Madoka Magica’s Madoka), Ayako Kawasumi (Fate’s Saber), Yuko Miyamura (Evangelion’s Asuka), and Marina Inoue (Attack on Titan’s Armin).
▼ And just look at how happy Madoka and Asuka are! We’re sure no tragedy would ever strike with them tagging along on our outings.
If you’d prefer a masculine voice telling you which way to go, you can choose from Shuichi Ikeda (Gundam’s Char), Tomokazu Sugita (Gintama’s Gintoki), Hikaru Midorikawa (Fushigi Yuugi’s Tamahome), and Tomokazu Seki (G Gundam’s Domon).
▼ “Do you seriously think you’ve got what it takes to keep up with my directions?”
Samples for all of them, plus cast members from Azumanga Daioh, Ranma 1/2, High School of the Dead, and Cardcaptor Sakura can be listened to here on the Voice Actor Navigation website.
Prices range from 315 to 1,000 yen (US$2.90-$9.30), depending on how extensive of a package you want. Let’s be honest, though. If you’re the kind of fan who wants your favorite character’s voice keeping you company on long drives, this isn’t the time you’re going to be worrying about saving a few bucks.
Sources: Response, Hachima Kikou, Maplus
Insert images: Aikotoba, Comic Vine, Maplus
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