DWToyspot

A Comparison of Candy

2012-02-07T00:25:00.000-08:00

After reading through various literature online on how to achieve a candy gloss effect, i decided to do a trusty spoon comparison and see for myself how the effect varies across different paints. (and hey.. its fun to airbrush spoons :) )

In particular, i had read about how its not advisable to spray transparent colors over AlClad chrome. Being the stubborn bugger I am and encouraged by the label on the bottle of Alclad transparent red (which says basically to spray Alclad's clear coat on Alclad's high shine range before spraying clear colors), i decided to try it myself.

First I primed several spoons with Tamiya Fine Surface 1200. (spraycan)

Then i airbrushed black on the various spoons.
Heres some details for those who like technical details
Alclad was airbrushed with 2 fine mist coats @ 12psi
Tamaya Enamel Black and Gaia Pure black mixed with a 1:2 paint/thinner ratio and airbrushed at 18psi.

Since i am using a crappy camera on my Iphone4 to take all the pics.. so I better provide comments on the actual results.

Results: Alclad Gloss Black Base gave the most reflective and glossiest finish, followed by Tamiya enamel black. Gaia notes pure black finish was slightly flat..

Here are the upclose shots

After waiting 24hrs for them to dry.. i mist coated Alclad Chrome on all 3. again at 12 psi

Results are quite intuitive... the Glossiest Black base resulted in the shiniest chrome (as already commented by various other online sources.. ). Result of this is that the next time i want to go for the a chrome look with most bling.. i will use Alclad Gloss black base as the undercoat...

Anyways .. here are the upclose shots

Next I sprayed Alclad Transparent Red over all 3.. (again at 12 psi blah blah)

For the spoon with Alclad Gloss black base, i actually coated half the spoon with Alclad Clear Base (1 mist, 1 slightly wet coat) before airburshing on the Alclad Transparent Red.So to answer the whether the Clear base affects the shininess of the Alclad chrome.. the answer is YES (unfortunately). The chrome effect dulls a fair bit after the clear base is applied. However..the end result after applying the transparent red is that the area which has the clear base looks "brighter" then the area without.. hmmm

heres a pic of the spoon upclose. Although quite hard to see the difference since I am not using a fancy DSLR :P

Here are the other 2 close- ups...

Then I decided to compare all these Alclad with some good ole Gaia paints... I primed .. undercoated a few more spoons.. Whhiicchhh I forgot to take pictures of (DOH!!)... but heres the end result

Upclose... (for some funny reason.. Gaia Clear red on Starlight SL doesnt like to be photographed..i tried a few times.cant get a good pic..so pardon the slightly blurry one)

Result?? Using Gaia Clear Red over Gaia Starlight Silver actually provides more "depth" to the candy red versus using Gaia Clear Red over Alclad Chrome. Using Gaia Clear Red over Alclad Chrome gives a "colder" more metallic feeling to the candy red... hard to explain in words.. think depth versus shine (those who are into car detailing will know what i mean)

Last bit?? A look at Gaia Clear vs Alclad Clears

Above 2 effects are my favourites..
using Gaia clear reds gives a lighted more candy color
using Alclad transparent red gives a dark deep reddish hue color
I think there are different uses for both colors and hopefully i will be able to do a model using these colors soon...

Well thats it... I had fun doing this spoon test. If you want to see the colors yourself and factor in more variables I encourage you to go ahead ..grab a few spoons and try it.. Its fun and you'll learn thru the process...

Cheers
Surge

PS:No Spoons were hurt in the course of this comparison :P

Thank you: DWToySpot Toy Sale @ CSC FleaMarket (7th Nov 2010)

2010-11-10T20:32:00.000-08:00

Our booth was located at China Square Central 2nd floor right outside Pasttimes toy shop near the escalator down to TnT.

We had a fantastic sale of PVC figures, Yamato Macross, nendoroids, figmas, resin kits,designer vinyl , HotToys and many other misc brand sales last sunday at CSC Fleamart. Many got their items at great prices. Sorry to those who came a little late and the item you wanted was already gone....

Response was great and thanks to all from hardwarezone forum who came down to support us.
DWtoyspot would also like to extend our thanks to customers who bought from us.

Look out for our next booth sales at CSC. Check back here as we will post details of future sales before the sale day so that more of you can get these great bargains.

Cheers
Surge

DWToySpot Toy Sale @ CSC FleaMarket (7th Nov 2010)

2010-11-02T22:44:00.000-07:00

Hi Folks

DwToyspot will be having a big PVC sale at CSC flea market this Sunday! (7th Nov 2010)
It will start at noon and end at 5.30pm. All PVCs are direct sales from collectors so expect hard to find items and good prices

We will be located on the 2nd floor outside Pasttime toy shop. (Up from the escalator from TnT side)

Feel free to come down and have a look

Cheers
Surge

*Update 6 Nov 2010

Heres a quick update folks.
For those still undecided on whether to come down and have a look, heres revealing more items that will be more sale tomorrow.

Macross Quedlan-Rau Max & Miria (will throw in both Max & Miria pilot figures which are rare)
Macross VF-1A DYRL Max
Macross YF-19 (First Issue) & Fold Booster and Fast Pack (latest reissue)
Yamato Macross Zero 1/60 SV-51y Nora
Yamato Macross Zero 1/60 VF-0A (June 2010 Reissue)
Project Squadt- Halloween Skelsuit (Chipp & Gohst set)
Megahouse Mospeada Ride Armors- Ley (Rand)
EVA Seat of the Soul (one pair)
Joe Ledbetter Pink Teeter
Joe Ledbetter Tiger Dunny
otobukiya 4 Leaves Minamoto Chizuru
Yamato Creators' Labo - Shunya Yamashita #012 Non-Non
Yamato Creators' Labo - Shunya Yamashita #014 Arisa (another color)
Griffon Enterprise Diformate Illustrator Arrangement Saber Armor Ver.
Kaiyodo Fate/Stay Night - Revoltech Saber Alter
Kaiyodo Fate/Stay Night - Revoltech Saber Lily
Yamato VF-1S Roy Focker's Unit Special Weathering Ver. (re-issue)
Yamato VF-1A Low Visibility ver.
Yamato Macross Display Stand - Black
Yamato Macross Display Stand - Black
Yamato Macross Display Stand - Black
Orchid Seed Al Azif - Demon Bane
Yamato Amanda Werner - Niθ Illustrate Ver.
Alphamax Haruka Nogizaka - Sexy Lingerie ver. 1/6 Cold Cast
Max Factory Kousaka Tamaki
Wave Nodocchi
E2046 Resin Cast Kit Eve (2 pcs available)
E2046 Resin Cast Kit Gianna
Gift Saber
Max Factory Figma Saber Armour ver.
E2046 Resin Cast Kit Dip Mou

And this is not even the full list... so do come down and have a look

Cheers and see you there!
Surge

Here is some of the goodies you can expect to find on that day. There are lots more, so come down and check it out for yourself!
[B]
Mecha[/B]
Yamato MMB Hyper Armored Block HAB-0003 T-Rex (Camouflage Ver. Limited Ed)
GX-41B Black Reideen

[B]Figma[/B]
Lyrical Shoujo Nanoha StrikerS Nanoha Barrier Jacket Version
Lyrical Shoujo Nanoha StrikerS Hayate Yagami (Knight Armour Version)
Lyrical Shoujo Nanoha StrikerS Shamal (Knight ver)
Lyrical Shoujo Nanoha StrikerS Vita (Knight Ver)

[B]Nendoroid[/B]
Nendoroid 10 Nagato Yuki
Nendoroid 97 Snow Miku [Wonder Festival 2010]

Revoltech 21 GR-2

[B]PVCs[/B]
Alter Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS – Yagami Hayate 1/7 PVC Figure
Alter Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS - Fate T Harlaown (Sonic Form) 1/7 PVC Figure
Alter Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS -Takamachi Nanoha 1/7 PVC Figure
Alter Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS – Signum
Megahouse Excellent Model Clare 1/8 PVC Figure

OraDora set
1/7 Resinya Ami Kawashima PVC
1/7 Resinya Minori Kushieda PVC
1/7 Resinya Taiga Aisaka PVC

Uplark Mio
1/8 Mio Akiyama PVC

GSC Shiki
1/7 Shiki Ryougi Garan no Dou PVC

Banpresto Lucky Star x Macross Frontier Figures, Set G

Vinyl
Project Squadt CHIPP S003 [HALLOWEEN SKELSUIT
Project Squadt GOHST S002 [HALLOWEEN SKELSUIT]
Project Squadt KENNY WONG X FERG COPPERHEAD18
Project Squadt K11 [Midnight SPIKE and SPOT]
Touma GID Bone Fang Wolf

WonderFest 2010 Summer Coverage - PVC Figures

2010-07-25T11:03:00.000-07:00

And of course we have to cover PVC figures. These miniature works of art are sure to tug at your heartstrings... ENJOY :)

Name: Love Is War Hatsune Miku
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Vocaloid
Scale: 1/8

Name: Black Gold Saw Anime Ver.
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Black Rock Shooter
Scale: 1/8

Name: Tohsaka Rin
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Fate/Stay Night ~Unlimited Blade Works~
Scale: 1/7

Name: Saber Alter ~Iron Hammer of the Terrible King “Hiou Tetsui” Vortigern~
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Fate/Stay Night
Scale: 1/7

Name: Kanbaru Suruga
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Bakemonogatari
Scale: 1/8

Name: Hanekawa Tsubasa
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Bakemonogatari
Scale: 1/8

Name: Nakamura Yuri
Company: Good Smile Company
Scale: 1/8
Series: Angel Beats!

Name: Tenshi
Company: Good Smile Company
Scale: 1/8
Series: Angel Beats!

Name: ActSta Fate Testarossa
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha The Movie 1st
Scale: 1/8

Name: Hatsune Miku Tony Ver.
Company: Max Factory
Scale: 1/7
Series: Vocaloid
Release Date: January 2011

Name: Hatsune Miku Append Ver.
Company: Max Factory
Series: Vocaloid

Name: Kotobuki Tsumugi
Company: Max Factory
Scale: 1/7
Series: K-ON!

Name: Lily
Company: Phat Company
Scale: 1/8
Series: Vocaloid
Release Date: November 2010

Name: Kohsaka Tamaki
Company: Gift
Scale: 1/4
Series: To Heart2

Name: Tamura Hiyori Gym Suit Ver.
Company: FREEing
Scale: 1/4
Series: Lucky Star
Release Date: January 2011
Retail Price: 14,800 Yen

Name: Takamachi Nanoha
Company: FREEing
Series: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha The Movie 1st
Scale: 1/8

Name: Fate Testarossa
Company: FREEing
Series: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha The Movie 1st
Scale: 1/8

Name: Fate Testarossa Plain Clothes Ver.
Company: Alter
Scale: 1/7
Series: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha The Movie 1st

Name: Takamachi Vivio
Company: Alter
Scale: 1/7
Series: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha Vivid
Release Date: 2011

Name: Tainaka Ritsu
Company: Alter
Scale: 1/8
Series: K-ON!

Name: Saten Ruiko
Company: Alter
Scale: 1/8
Series: To Aru Kagaku no Railgun
Release Date: December 2010
Retail Price: 7,140 Yen

Name: Senjougahara Hitagi
Company: Alter
Scale: 1/8
Series: Bakemonogatari

Name: Dizzy
Company: Alter
Scale: 1/8
Series: Guilty Gear XX A Core

Name: Houmei
Company: Alter
Scale: 1/8
Series: Shining Wind
Release Date: 2011

Name: Kinoshita Hideyoshi
Company: Alter
Scale: 1/8
Series: Baka To Test To Shokanju
Release Date: December 2010
Retail Price: 7,140 Yen

Name: Yuri Lowell
Company: Altair (Alter)
Scale: 1/8
Series: Tales of Vesperia
Release Date: December 2010

Name: Mina Tepes
Company: Kotobukiya
Series: Dance In The Vampire Bund
Scale: 1/6

Name: Sorami Kanata
Company: Kotobukiya
Series: So-Ra-No-Wo-To
Scale: 1/8

Name: Alicia Melchiott
Company: Kotobukiya
Series: Valkyria Chronicles
Scale: 1/8

Name: Kohsaka Tamaki Dragon Chronicles Warrior Ver.
Company: Kotobukiya
Series: To Heart 2

Name: Yuzuhara Konomi Dragon Chronicles Witch Ver.
Company: Kotobukiya
Series: To Heart 2

Name: Phantom EX Xecty
Company: Kotobukiya
Series: Shining Wind

Name: Fujibayashi Kyou
Company: Kotobukiya
Series: Clannad

Name: Ignis of the Endless Winter
Company: Orchid Seed
Series: Jingai Makyo
Scale: 1/7

Name: Nanako
Company: Orchid Seed
Series: To Heart2
Scale: 1/7

Name: Aizawa Nao
Company: Orchid Seed
Series: Comic Aun
Scale: 1/7

Name: Nishikawa Chiharu
Company: Orchid Seed
Series: Comic Kairakuten Naruco Hanaharu Cover Art
Scale: 1/7

Name: Zisca
Company: Orchid Seed
Series: Brandish
Scale: 1/7
Release Date: 2010

Name: Erina
Company: Orchid Seed
Series: Honey Blonde
Scale: 1/7

Name: Princess Bitch
Company: Orchid Seed
Series: F.S ISM
Scale: 1/7
Release Date: -
Retail Price: -
Note: -

Name: Alfin
Company: Orchid Seed
Series: Shining Force Feather
Scale: 1/7
Release Date: October 2010

Name: Serizawa Fumino
Company: MegaHouse
Series: Mayoi Neko Overrun!
Scale: 1/8
Release Date: November 2010

Name: Hattori Junko Ninja Suit Ver.
Company: Hobby Japan/GSC
Series: Queen’s Gate – Ichiban Ushiro no Daimaou
Scale: 1/8

Name: Yagyu Jubei
Company: Hobby Japan/MegaHouse
Series: Queen’s Gate – Hyakka Ryoran
Scale: 1/8
Release Date: January 2011
Retail Price: 7,980 Yen

Name: Eas
Company: Alpha Omega
Series: Pretty Cure Fresh!
Scale: 1/8
Release Date: 2010

Name: Eris
Company: CM’s Corporation
Series: Asobi ni Ikuyo

Name: Takamachi Nanoha
Company: Cospa
Series: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha The Movie 1st
Retail Price: 12,800 Yen

Cheers
Surge

WonderFest 2010 Summer Coverage - Figma

2010-07-25T10:51:00.000-07:00

Continuing the coverage of WonderFest 2010 Summer with Figmas
Lots of good stuff coming up. Start saving now :)

Name: Figma Kousaka Kirino
Company: Max Factory
Series: Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai

Name: Figma Shameimaru Aya
Company: Max Factory
Series: Touhou Project

Name: Figma Senjougahara Hitagi
Company: Max Factory
Series: Bakemonogatari
Release Date: January 2011

Name: Figma Araragi Koyomi
Company: Max Factory
Series: Bakemonogatari
Release Date: February 2011

Name: Figma Erio Mondial Barrier Jacket Ver.
Company: Max Factory
Series: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS
Release Date: December 2010

Name: Figma Caro Ru Lushe Barrier Jacket Ver.
Company: Max Factory
Series: Mahou Shoujo Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS
Release Date: January 2011

Name: Figma Makise Kurisu
Company: Max Factory
Series: Steins;Gate
Release Date: December 2010

Name: Figma Suzumiya Haruhi Disappearance Ver.
Company: Max Factory
Series: Suzumiya Haruhi no Shoshitsu
Release Date: November 2010

Name: Figma Miyafuji Yoshika
Company: Max Factory
Series: Strike Witches

Name: Figma Metis
Company: Max Factory
Series: Persona 3 FES
Release Date: November 2010

Name: Figma Black Gold Saw
Company: Max Factory
Series: Black Rock Shooter

Name: Figma KOS-MOS Ver. 4
Company: Max Factory
Series: Xenosaga III
Release Date: January 2011
Retail Price: 4,500 Yen

Name: Figma Michael Jackson Thriller Ver.
Company: Max Factory
Series: Thriller
Retail Price: 2,800 Yen

Name: Figma Misaka Mikoto
Company: Max Factory
Series: To Aru Majutsu no Index

Name: Figma Kamen Rider Dragon Knight
Company: Max Factory
Series: Kamen Rider Dragon Knigh
Release Date: November 2010
Retail Price: 3,200 Yen

Name: Figma Kamen Rider Wing Knight
Company: Max Factory
Series: Kamen Rider Dragon Knight
Release Date: December 2010
Retail Price: 3,200 yen

Cheers
Surge

WonderFest 2010 Summer Coverage - Nendoroids

2010-07-25T10:20:00.000-07:00

WonderFest really is an event many collectors look forward to. This year's WonderFest 2010 Summer is being held at Makuhari Messe International Exhibition Hall and the organizers are targeting a mind boggling 42,000 pax to attend.

Heres some coverage on this year's WonderFest Summer event. Kumo really did a good job on his blog, so to not spoil it ( and save me tons of work.. here it is :P )

As usual I will start with Nendoroids since they're always my favorite.

Name: Nendoroid Dead Master
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Black Rock Shooter

Name: Nendoroid Kinoshita Hideyoshi
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Baka To Test To Shokanju

Name: Nendoroid Noumi Kudryavka
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Little Busters!
Release Date: 2011
Retail Price: 4,200 Yen

Name: Nendoroid Sherlock Shellingford
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Tantei Opera Milky Holmes
Release Date: December 2010

Name: Nendoroid Suzumiya Haruhi Disappearance Ver.
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Suzumiya Haruhi no Shoshitsu
Release Date: December 2010
Retail Price: 3,500 Yen

Name: Nendoroid Nagato Yuki Disappearance Ver.
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Suzumiya Haruhi no Shoshitsu
Release Date: November 2010
Retail Price: 3,500 Yen

Name: Nendoroid Hirasawa Ui
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: K-ON!

Name: Nendoroid Saber Plain Clothes Ver.
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Fate/Stay Night

Name: Nendoroid Lynette Bishop
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Strike Witches

Name: Nendoroid Makise Kurisu
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Steins;Gate
Release Date: December 2010

Name: Nendoroid Arch Bishop
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Ragnarok Online

Name: Nendoroid Asakura Nemu
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Da Capo

Name: Nendoroid Flandre Scarlet
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Touhou Project

Name: Nendoroid Hatsune Miku Paw Laboratory Ver.
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Vocaloid

Name: Nendoroid Puchi K-ON! #01
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: K-ON!

Name: Nendoroid Jiei-tan
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Magical Marine Pixel Maritan

Name: Nendoroid Army-san
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Magical Marine Pixel Maritan

Name: Nendoroid Haru-chan
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: NHK News Watch 9

Name: Nendoroid Kousaka Kirino
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai

Name: Nendoroid Gokou Ruri
Company: Good Smile Company
Series: Ore no Imouto ga Konnani Kawaii Wake ga Nai

Name: Nendoroid Tomoe
Company: FREEing
Series: Queen’s Blade

Credits:WCLOUDX Blog (the credit really goes to Kumo.. i basically just cut and pasted)

Cheers
Surge

Fewture ExGokin ENERGER 1969

2010-07-24T01:48:00.000-07:00

Just announced from Fewture , Energer 1969 will join the ranks of the EXGokin series.
Frankly speaking, I am not very excited at this release though. Although the ExGokin range is a great line, its come to a point where i wish Fewture had some other liceases to make rather then just Mazingers..

But anyways, this mecha doesn't look too bad. I like the gold trimming. The articulated bike ramp on its back is ok.

Overall, it feels and looks like the other mazinger releases and I just can't get excited about it. This plus the lack of accessories (it only comes with 4 hands, stand and small bike) means I'll probably save the 300 dollars for something else.

Specifications
Material:Die-Cast, PVC , ABS , POM
Height:23cm
Expected Release date: March 2011
RRSP: 19,800Yen (~SGD$310)

Credits:
http://artstorm.co.jp/exgokin_energer1969.html
http://ga.sbcr.jp/mgangu/015299/
Cheers
Surge

Nendoroid Snow Miku and K-On Live Stage Ver from PlayAsia

2010-07-23T12:32:00.001-07:00

Hi Folks

*Update 24 July 12pm: Whoa...thats fast.. Within a time I posted and 12pm... snow miku has been sold out at PlayAsia... Hope those who wanted managed to get one...

Well, i was watching for nendoroid snow miku at PlayAsia and was surprised to see it for sale for USD$69.90.
Good deal so I grabbed 2. Playasia limits it to maximum 2 per customer. I believe stocks maybe limited so you may want to get yours fast if you want 1.

Check it out HERE

Also available is the Nendoroid K-ON! Akiyama Mio & Tainaka Ritsu Live ver Set for US$ 149.00 (~206.68 SGD). Not too shabby

Check this one out here
Hope you enjoyed the deals :)
Cheers
Surge

First Look: Nendoroid Ayasaki Hayate & Katsuragi Hinagiku

2010-07-14T07:57:00.000-07:00

What you are seeing is a preview scan featuring the upcoming “Nendoroid Katsuragi Hinagiku” and “Nendoroid Ayasaki Hayate” from Hayate no Gotoku by Max Factory.

It looks like Hinagiku is scheduled for November 2010 release and Hayate is scheduled for December 2010 release. Prices should be the usual nendo prices (~3500Yen +/-)

Credits: gits_sacs from SGCollect Forums

Cheers
Surge

Update: Vocaloid Racing Nendoroid Petit Set

2010-07-13T11:23:00.000-07:00

Just a quick update. MikaTan updated her blog with more pics of the upcoming Racing Vocaloids. Thats when I realised that the set is a set of Petits and not full size nendoroids...sad :(
I wish they were full size nendos... but they're still cute though..

This nendoroid petit will only be available from Nico Chokuhan. There will be 2 different version of the set; A Normal Set for 3,500 Yen and A Sponsor Set for 4,500 Yen.

The only difference between the 2 sets is that the Sponsor version comes with GSR stickers and a Sponsor Card.

Reservations already opened and both versions is scheduled for November 2010 release. Each person can order up to 5 sets each.

Credits: Mikatan's Blog
Cheers
Surge

Vocaloid Characters Nendoroid - Racing Miku, Luka, Rin

2010-07-12T06:26:00.000-07:00

Hi folks

Heres some preview pics of racing versions of Rin, Miku, Luka from the Vocaloid series.
Racing Miku (No. #109) was announced sometime in March and these preview pics show that there will be more to follow.

Nice.. I live the designs of the racing suits and the xtra accessories... can't wait for Rin and Luka, though I'll probably have to pay a pretty penny for them too since like Racing Miku , Rin and Luka will probably have some sort of "sponsoring package" too :P

Super kawaiii :)

14 July 2010: Please note there is an UPDATE to this particular post. Check out the update HERE

Of course I also like THIS...REAL LIFE RACING MIKU...EVEN MORE KAWAIII!! :)

Credits:
Gits_SAC from SGcollect forums
http://supergt.goodsmileracing.com/
Cheers
Surge

Sneak Peak: Nendoroid Saber Full Action Version

2010-06-18T21:45:00.000-07:00

Hi Folks

Mikatan recently posted some pics of possibly the the upcoming nendoroid of Saber from Fate/Stay Night. This will be a normal version Saber. The last time Saber was released in this form was Nendoroid 002 which was a Wonderfest 2006 exclusive. That however had the funny faces. Since then, fans of saber have been waiting for a nendoroid of Saber in her "normal" form for a looongg time.. at least I have. This release probably is because of the Fate StayNight: Unlimited Blade Works movie.

Anyways..It loooks great!... hope it gets released soon.
Meanwhile.. drool at the pics

At first I thought the following were advance prototype pics of Saber Alter because of the color.... but then i realized that are just proto pics for the above :P

Credits:http://ameblo.jp/gsc-mikatan/page-2.html#main
Cheers
Surge

Toy Hunting in Hong Kong Mongkok area

2010-06-07T04:08:00.000-07:00

Hi Folks

As promised, heres a short post of some general tips when Toy shopping in Hong Kong.
For this post, theres a map and some details of the shops I went in Mongkok area since that is where i bought most of my stuff. I went to Causeway Bay too but found it rather lacking compared to Mongkok.

I had found a few online guides regarding toy shopping in HK. I found it was tedious to bring along a few printed text descriptions on the places to visit and having to try to correlate some maps of the particular shop to a bigger HK tourist map i had . So it thought fitting everything onto 1 image so that it is easy for you to print out and bring along with you would be good.

Heres a map i created from modifying google maps. Feel free to leave comment to point out other good toy shops/areas in the maps so that I can add it in.

Richmund Commercial Building (B1, Lvl 1 ,2 ,3)
Most PVC figures among other locations.
Shops open rather late. Go after 5pm

CTMA Center (B1, Lvl 1-3)
Good Miz of stuff
B1 only opens after 4pm. Lvl 1-3 slightly earlier
Checkout the HotToys flagship store on Lvl 2

Animate
Right across the street from CTMA Center
on the 2nd floor
Retail store so everything is arranged nicely :)

Sino Center (B2, B1, lvl 1-3, lvl 4, lvl 7, lvl 9)
Largest Concentration of stuff
Some shops are tucked away at the higher floors(lvl 3 and abovce) among normal offices.. so try to explore. Get access to the higher floors via the staircase. I tried the lift when I was there but it was $%^& slow.

Heres a few general tips for toy shopping in HK

1) Remember. The toy shops only open AFTER around 4pm. Go any earlier and you only can stand outside the shops and drool. lolz.
2) Best days to go are WEEKdays. Weekends are damn crowded.. both in terms of toy shops and generally pple on the streets
3) There ARE FAKES in HK. Keep your eye open and check carefully b4 buying.
4) Some of the stuff on display are 2nd hand pieces which people leave with the shops to sell. If the prices seem really good, you can check with the shopkeepers if the item is 2nd hand. These pieces are normally displayed outside the shop in big display cases. Common sight in Richmund Commercial Bldg and CauseWay Bay Center.

Hope this was helpful.

Cheers
Surge

May 2010 Hong Kong Trip

2010-05-28T11:25:00.001-07:00

Hi Folks

Long long time since you've seen a post from me. I blame my hectic work schedule and general laziness :P Anyways, just came back from Hong Kong a few days ago and I thought it would be good to share some of my buys from this great place.

Basically what you see here are bought from the Mongkok area in HK. I did visit the causeway bay area shops but found there were more treasures in Mongkok. I got from stuff from

Sino Center
CTMA Center
Richmund Building

Anyways.. enough talk.. here are my buys.

Had to pack everything into a box and check-in this carton.. lucky I brought minimal luggage over...
This carton weighed in at around 10kg :P

Had to hand carry some stuff too as the carton couldn't fit everything...

Heres everything unpacked... problem is...where am i going to store them... :P

And here is a breakdown of the toys and where i got them

From the left- top down.. we have

Most Wanted GDX-01 Gaiking
Most Wanted GDX-02 Raiking
Most Wanted GDX-03 Balking
Got all 3 from CTMA Basement 2 at a steal. I could have bought the GDX-C01 GAIKING COMPLETE BOXSET if i wanted but the shopkeeper advised (and showed me) that the gold accents on the separate boxes were brighter. Besides the brighter gold accents, the boxset and separate boxes are totally similar.The three robots combines to form Great Gaiking (image courtesy of Most Wanted official page as I haven't opened mine yet)

Next we have (left to right_ top down)
Nendoroid Sumomo Akihime+Nintendo DS game of Nanatsuiro Drops (Sino Center 2nd Flr)
Kaiyodo Revoltech Danboard Mini Amazon.co.jp Box Version (Sino Center 3rd Flr)
CMS Brave Gokin 27 Linebarrels Mode B (CTMA 2nd Flr)
Yamato Planetry Robot Danguard Ace [Plated Version] (CTMA 2 Flr)

And finally (top down)
Bandai Soul of Chogokin GX-41B Black Raideen (Sino Center 3 Flr)
Mysterious Black Box (more on this later)
Megahouse Deformer SRW Alteisen (CTMA 2nd Flr)
Megahouse Deformer SRW Weibritter (CTMA 2nd Flr)

So what is in that stupid black box??!!!??
It is actually the best buy of my whole trip.... A painted resin figure of Gurren Lagann in its final form
TENGA TOPPA GURREN LAGANN!!!
I always wanted this figure. The original one from Volks was a pre-painted cold cast statue and cost a BOMB. E2046 also had a pre-painted resin figure but costed a bomb also and has long since sold out.
So when i saw this at Richmund Building, my eyes lit up instantly and I knew I had to get it. Admitedly the paintwork is probably not up to par to Volks or E2046 standard, but for the price I was getting it for.. I had no complains. And the guy was airbrushed this did quite a nice job IMHO.

These are some pics I took of the figure when i was in the shop.
I still have to use contact adhesive to join the main parts together for mine (it is still a kit).
I Love this figure :D

On the whole, it was a fulfilling and very enjoyable experience toy hunting in Hong Kong. There was lots to see and buy and the price was Great! I spent slightly less then HKD4000 (~SGD$720) for all the toys you see above.

Will try to do a post with maps, descriptions and general tips when toy hunting in HK soon.

Until then

Cheers
Surge

Nendoroid Feena

2010-03-03T20:04:00.000-08:00

I thought the first post i would make after my month long hiatus would be one of my favourite lines. A Nendoroid from GSC =) A little bit late since this was announced by GSC in early Feb, but better late then never rite.. :P

Feena comes from Yoake Mae yori Ruriiro na, a fictional series centering on a princess from a kingdom on the moon who lives with a family on Earth for a time. It began as a Japanese adult visual novel video game developed by August and was followed by a PlayStation 2 adaptation developed by Aria. A manga and a 12-episode anime based on the series, called Yoake Mae yori Ruriiro na: Crescent Love came after that.

Feena is basically Princess Feena Fam Earthlight from the Kingdom of Sphere on Earth's moon. in the series it was decided that she was to live on Earth in a homestay with the family of the primary secretary to the president of the United Nations so as to get more knowledgeable of Earth in order to better prepare herself for her succession as the Kingdom of Sphere's next queen.

The nendoroid comes complete with 3 expressions:a smiling face, a eyes closed face and an elegant smiling face. Also included are her staff, and a sunflower apparently staple items from the series.

I must say, I like this Nendoroid alot. From the colors to the intricately sculpted dress, it is a must have for nendo collectors (like me). The tiny tiara on her head just rounds off the nendo so well.

Sad to say it is an exclusive (all the nice ones are arent they..), and is only sold at Sofmap stores all over Japan and sofmap.com. So get your internet trudging shoes on and scour the internet for where to get yours.

Product Details

Product Name Nendoroid Feena (ねんどろいどふぃーな)
Series Yoake Mae yori Ruriiro na
Manufacturer Good Smile Company
Category Nendoroid
Price 3500Yen (~SGD$55)
Release Date 2010/06
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - approx 10cm(H)
Sculptor JUN(E.V.)
Cooperation Nendoron
Sold At Sofmap stores all over Japan and sofmap.com (Japanese only)

Credits: http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2814/Nendoroid+Feena.html
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I'am Back!!

2010-03-03T19:38:00.000-08:00

Hi Folks

Most of you must be wondering where the hell i went as there were no updates for almost the whole month of February. Fact is i was swamped in Feb with Chinese New Year and then a business trip which I had to make to the US. Just got back the day before and am now catching up on what I have missed over the past month. Lots of catching up to do so give me a little time and you will have your updates coming back very soon =)

Cheers
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WonderFest 2010 Winter Coverage - Figmas, Revoltech

2010-02-07T05:41:00.000-08:00

Here are the Figmas and action figures showcased at this year's Wonderfest 2010 Winter show. Will keep updating this post as I find more.
You can refer HERE for the other stuff that we are covering (nendoroids, posable figures etc)

MaxFactory Figma

Revoltech - Fraulein

Revoltech - Queens Blade

Credits:Hobbystock blog, Dengekionline, Akiba hobby
Cheers
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WonderFest 2010 Winter Coverage - PVC Figures

2010-02-06T22:55:00.000-08:00

Here are the PVC figures showcased at this year's Wonderfest 2010 Winter show. Will keep updating this post as I find more.
You can refer HERE for the other stuff that we are covering (nendoroids, posable figures etc)

Alter

Good Smile Company GIFT
Kotobukiya Megahouse
Altair (from Alter. new line for male chars)Resinya

Credits:HobbyStock Blog,Akiba Hobby
Cheers
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WonderFest 2010 Winter Coverage - Nendoroid

2010-02-06T22:20:00.000-08:00

As promised, here are the Nendoroids showcased at this year's Wonderfest 2010 Winter show. Will keep updating this post as I find more pics of nendos at WF.
You can refer HERE for the other stuff that we are covering (PVCs, posable figures etc)

Enough Talk.. ON to the Nendos =)
Credits:http://blog.hobbystock.jp/report/2010/02/tp0312.html
Cheers
Surge

WonderFest 2010 Winter Coverage

2010-02-06T22:04:00.000-08:00

This year's Wonder Festival 2010 Winter (WonderFest 2010 Winter) happens today (7th Feb 2010) at Makuhari Messe International Convention Complex. Previous years it was held at Tokyo Big Sight but due to the ugly escalator incident some time back, it probably will not be held there again.

Anyways, here are some early preview pics of the great stuff being showcased at WF2010. I will keep updating the post as I find more pics , so check back to this post for the links

Here are the various posts
WF2010 Winter Coverage - Nendoroids
WF2010 Winter Coverage - PVC Figures
WF2010 Winter Coverage - Figmas, Revoltech

More to come shortly as I arrange the pics

Cheers
Surge

Nendoroid Azusa Nakano

2010-02-01T22:24:00.001-08:00

Cute as a button Azusa Nakano from the K-ON is scheduled to be released as a nendoroid May 2010.

Azusa comes with her guitar, it's amp as well as "Azunyan #2" - the cat that appeared in one of the side stories. 3 expressions are also included: a smiling face, an embarrassed face and a confused face. The best accessory however, has got to be the cat ears. Wearing them and matching with the 'cat paw" hands, Azusa is too cute for words.

Being one of the most popular characters in K-On, Azusa needs no introduction. Being nendorised just makes her all the more cute. A definite must have for any K-On fan and nendo collector.

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia.They ship internationally.

*3 Feb 2010: Pre-orders for this have opened on online japanese sites.As many of you know there was a mad rush to PO due to limited stock (K-on licensing issue..blah blah). Anyways it seemed they POs have opened again due to GSC announcing a 2nd release. Singapore shops have also opened pre-orders for this. A word of caution though, stocks are still limited and prone to stock cuts STILL(from a reliable source). The local pre-orders will probably close early once they have met their quota limit. Therefore pre-order while you still can. don't say I didnt warn you.... :P

Product Details

Product Name Nendoroid Azusa Nakano (ねんどろいどなかのあずさ)
Series K-ON!
Manufacturer Good Smile Company
Category Nendoroid
Price 3500Yen (~SGD$54)
Release Date 2010/05
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale -- approx 10cm(H)
Sculptor Yukiwo Ageta (Max Factory)
Cooperation Nendoron

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2798/Nendoroid+Azusa+Nakano.html
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Yamato Creators’ Labo - Tsukasa Bullet Compact Hog

2010-01-31T07:14:00.000-08:00

Yamato is going to release this PVC of Tsukasa Bullet Compact Hog which is based on an illustration by Tsukasa Jun ( 司淳 ).

Now honestly, I normally skip past the Creator's Labo line... which is weird since the line focused on female figures which more often then not were wielding nice big weapons. I don't know, although they were AFFs, they just rubbed on the wrong way.. maybe because they had this "dark" element to them which I didn't like.

Now I am not saying This particular figure doesn't have this dark element but as I was researching for other figures it just caught my eye. Its just the detailing on this figure looks simply awesome and even through all the black, you can see the attention to detail that went into this figure.

I won't say much more.. have a look yourself. I think its one of those figure that you either love or really hate....

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally and offer free shipping to Singapore.

Specs
Item name : Creators’ Labo #024 Tsukasa Bullet Compact Hog
Original : Tsukasa Bullet 2007 Calendar
Dimensions : non scale, approx height 18.5cm(H)
Specifications:Pre-painted PVC Figure
Release Date : June 2010
Price : 10,800Yen (~SGD$168)
Sculpted by: G.O. (Cerberus Project TM)

Credits:http://www.amiami.com/shop/?set=english&vgForm=ProductInfo&sku=FIG-MOE-1572&template=default/product/e_display.html
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Alter ToHeart2 - Ilfa 1/8 PVC Figure

2010-01-31T06:18:00.000-08:00

Scheduled for release June 2010 is the Ilfa ( シルファ ) 1/8 PVC figure from the ToHeart2 series published by Leaf/AQUAPLUS.

In the series, Ilfa is acutally an experimental maid robot from Kurusugawa Electronics,and the body is customized from the mass-produced HMX-16 'Leon'. She has 2 younger sisters, Milfa (lolz..what a name) and Silfa. Silfa was released as a PVC late last year from Alter.

To me, Ilfa really looks like the earlier release from Alter of Silfa and theres nothing wrong with that since they are supposed to be sisters anyway. However this means that unless you are a ToHeart2 fan, a casual collector probably won't want to get Silfa if they already have Silfa.

That being said Ilfa carries all the good points from Silfa such as a rich color scheme, good detailing and innocent faced backed up with her pose.

Summary?? Get if you are a fan or if you missed Silfa :)

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia.They ship internationally.

Specs
Item name : Ilfa
Original : ToHeart2
Dimensions : 1/8 scale, approx height 19.5cm(H)
Specifications:Pre-painted PVC Figure
Release Date : June 2010
Price : 6800Yen (~SGD$104)

Credits:http://www.hobbystock.jp/item/view/HBY-GCF-00003374
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Nendoroid Sakuya Izayoi

2010-01-31T05:49:00.000-08:00

Yet another cute Nendoroid from Touhou Project is going to released from Good Smile Company. Scheduled to be released in May 2010 for 3,000 yen is Nendoroid No.105 Izayoi Sakuya ( 十六夜咲夜 ) .

She comes with 3 expression parts, a tea set and a knife as accessories. I especially like the hand part which allows the nendo to cross her arms.. really cute. Seems like the Nendos from Touhou project all have pretty nice sculpts. As they are from the game so there are LOTs more characters which can be nendorised (see here for complete list). I guess that's both good and bad news for nendo collectors.

Still bearing the Touhou Project CURSE, this Nendoroid is also an online stores exclusive availible at these stores ;

NicoNico Chokuhan: （http://niconico.qt.shopserve.jp/）
Animate: （http://www.animate.co.jp/）
Gamers: （http://www.anibro.jp/）
Toranoana: （http://www.toranoana.jp/）

No access to getting them from there? Get them from your favorite proxy service or store that ships outside Japan. I actually use Otacute and find them pretty good.

Product Details

Product Name Nendoroid Sakuya Izayoi (ねんどろいどいざよいさくや)
Series Touhou Project
Manufacturer Good Smile Company
Category Nendoroid
Price 3000Yen (~SGD$46)
Release Date 2010/05
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure, not to scale, stand included, approx 10cm(H)
Sculptor JUN（E.V.
Cooperation Nendoron

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2797/Nendoroid+Sakuya+Izayoi.html
Cheers
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Maxfactory K-ON! - Figma Tsumugi Kotobuki (Uniform ver.)

2010-01-30T23:51:00.000-08:00

Rounding up the quartet from the anime series 'K-ON' comes the long-awaited figma of the keyboardist from Sakura High's music club, Tsumugi Kotobuki.

This figma includes
* 3 expressions : A smiling face, a delighted face and a mesmerized expression
* Keyboard with stand
* Various hand parts are included, including poses from her performances.

Not much introduction is required for K-On fans as they would be expecting Tsumugi anyway. This is her in her standard school uniform and most would just get her to complete the group from the first part of K-On. After Tsumugi there's really only Azusa left and that would be another hot favourtie that would be snapped up.

Product Details

Product Name figma Tsumugi Kotobuki: Uniform ver. (ふぃぐまあきやまみおせいふくver.)
Series K-ON!
Manufacturer Max Factory
Category figma
Price 2800Yen (~SGD$43)
Release Date 2010/04
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure, not to scale, approx 13.5cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory
Released by Max Factory
Distributed by Good Smile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2795/figma+Tsumugi+Kotobuki+Uniform+ver.html
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MaxFactory Touhou Project - Figma Kirisame Marisa

2010-01-30T23:35:00.000-08:00

Following from Reimu's being Figmatised, we had all expected Marisa to become a Figma sooner or later. So here she is...Max Factory is going to release the figma Kirisame Maris from Touhou Project in April 2010.

This figma comes with
* 3 interchangeable faces : A smiling face, a shouting face and a grinning face
* Her magic item, a mini-Hakkero is included with hand parts to hold it
* Marisa's witch's broom, a tea cup and her spellbook.
* Special leg parts allowing her to ride on her broom are also included

A nice figma i would say. I am still considering whether to get Marisa since I did order Reimu...hmmmzzz... there is a small hitch though

Following the irritating trait of all the other Touhou products, this figma Kirisame Marisa is going to be an online exclusive. So either you try ordering through these stores (which typically only sell within japan)
* NicoNico Chokuhan: （http://niconico.qt.shopserve.jp/）
* Animate: （http://www.animate.co.jp/）
* Gamers: （http://www.anibro.jp/）
* Toranoana: （http://www.toranoana.jp/）

Or you can get your favorite proxy service to purchase one.

Product Details

Product Name figma Kirisame Marisa (ふぃぐまきりさめまりさ)
Series Touhou Project
Manufacturer Max Factory
Category figma
Price 2800Yen (~SGD$43)
Release Date 2010/04
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure, not to scale, approx 13.5cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory
Released by Max Factory
Distributed by Good Smile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2796/figma+Kirisame+Marisa.html
Cheers
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GSC Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StikerS - Teana Lanster Actsta 1/8 Action Figure

2010-01-30T21:34:00.000-08:00

2nd figure from the Actsta line is Teana Lanster from the anime Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS . (darn I was hoping they'll do another character.. anyways..) Scheduled to be released June 2010 for 9800Yen.

Teana comes with 3 expressions, as well as hair parts to let her hair down so that you can display her as she looked after the StrikerS series. Also included is her device 'Cross Mirage' in four different forms.

Overall, the figure still reminds me of a BIG figma rather then a PVC figure that is poseable. It just does not have the detailing that good PVC figures have. That being said this series seems to have lots of play value with the posability and the accessories included. However it doesnt seem to have caught on yet. Maybe if GSC releases some more popular characters. Who knows.. we'll have to wait and see.

Get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Product Details

Product Name actsta: Teana Lanster (あくすたてぃあな・らんすたー)
Series Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StikerS
Manufacturer Good Smile Company
Category actsta
Price 9800Yen (~SGD$152)
Release Date 2010/06
Sculptor Good Smile Company and Liquid Stone
Specifications Complete painted ABS&PVC poseable figure, 1/8th scale approx 19cm(H)

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2790/actsta+Teana+Lanster.html
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MaxFactory Character Vocal Series 02 - Rin Kagamine -Nuclear Fusion 1/8 PVC Figure

2010-01-30T21:04:00.000-08:00

This figure is a result of a collaboration between the popular illustrator Nagimiso and Max Factory. Heres a look at the illustration
This more mature looking Rin was originally drawn for the PV of the song 'Nuclear Fusion (Hard-R.K.mix)'. i would say this PVC figure captures the feel of the illustration well. That hard rocker, wild, gothic feel all rolled into one. The facial expression on Rin is perfect, with her half frown and the "I dun give a F*ck" eyes". The colors are also simply fantastic with the splashes of color and darker base, reminds you of a abstract art painting...

However what really impresses me is the level of detail on this figure. Just look at the detail on your gothic outfit, frills.. folds.. ribbons, to the intricately sculpted mechanical guitar and even the futuristic base she stands upon. Absolutely fantastic.

Whether you are a fan of the original illustration or not this would looks great displayed on your shelf.

Get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally and offer free shipping to Singapore.

Product Details

Product Name Rin Kagamine -Nuclear Fusion- (かがみねりん　ろしんゆうかい)
Series Character Vocal Series 02: Rin Kagamine
Manufacturer Max Factory
Category PVC
Price 9800Yen (~SGD$152)
Release Date 2010/08
Specifications Painted PVC figure, 1/8th scale, approx 21cm(H)
Sculptor Shining Wizard @ Sawachika (Max Factory)
Released by Max Factory
Distributed by Good Smile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2791/Rin+Kagamine+-Nuclear+Fusion-.html
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Freeing Please Teacher! - Mizuho Kazami 1/4 PVC Figure

2010-01-26T06:28:00.000-08:00

Sorry for the delay in posting the new figures that came out recently. Work has been a maniac and hardly having any time to breathe precludes the time for me to sit in the office and post :P
Anyways, no more excuses so heres a figure from Freeing. A nice sexy one at that.

From the anime Please Teacher! comes a PVC figure of the beautiful teacher and possibly alien, Mizuho Kazami.

Definitely not a figure for the kids, Mizuho is dripping with sex appeal. Her ultra mini skirt, black stocking and super tight UNBUTTONED white shirt is the stuff of dreams [wet dreams :) ] The pose is sculpted naturally and no noticeable "stiffness" is seen. The facial expression is ok though a little bland. Highlight of the figure is of course the cast off feature which allows you to remove her clothes. Whats underneath is also nice with her undergarments detailed very nicely.

Accessories include a desk, chair as well as a pointer. The desk is the standard flimsy kind that you get with nendoroid sets though and looks clean and brand new. Would have been nice if it was more rugged like an actual classroom desk with doodles and scruff marks.

Overall this is a very nice bishojo figure. Only thing is that it makes me wonder WHY MY school teachers didn't look like this.... lolz

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Product Details

Product Name Mizuho Kazami (かざみみずほ)
Series Please Teacher!
Manufacturer FREEing
Category PVC
Price 14,800Yen
Release Date 2010/06
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/4th scale - approximately 40cm(H) (including desk)
Released by FREEing
Distributed by Good Smile Company
Planning/Sculpting/Design FREEing

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2783/Mizuho+Kazami.html
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MaxFactory Figma K-On - Mio Akiyama (School Uniform ver.)

2010-01-24T22:35:00.000-08:00

Joining the ever growing number of 'K-ON' merchandise , comes a Figma Mio Akiyama. Mio is the bassist from Sakura High's music club, also famous for her striped pantsu (watch the anime to understand why.. lolz ). MaxFactory has scheduled to release this Figma Feb 2010 at a rrp of 2800Yen.

Mio comes with 3 expressions , a smiling face, a frightened face and an embarrassed face. Also included is a very nice model of her bass guitar. The guitar even has a strap and case so you can store the guitar away. A very nice touch.

Fans of K-On would no doubt grab this to complete the band. For casual collectors short of a long hairs schoolgirl in uniform, this is as good as any other. The guitar makes this Figma a special draw.

You can get yours HERE at PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Product Details

Product Name figma Mio Akiyama: School Uniform ver. (ふぃぐまあきやまみおせいふくver.)
Series K-ON
Manufacturer Max Factory
Category figma
Price 2800Yen (~SGD$43)
Release Date 2010/02
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure, not to scale, approx 13.5cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory
Released by Max Factory
Distributed by Good Smile Company

Credits: http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2781/figma+Mio+Akiyama+School+Uniform+ver.html
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GSC Fate Stay Night - Saber ~Triumphant Excalibur~ 1/7 PVC Figure

2010-01-24T20:30:00.000-08:00

Phew..Just came back from a trip and I noticed a few new items out from GSC and even a new website design. :P

Well, this particular PVC is expected as we have seen prototypes are various shows and previews from Mika-Tan before.

Ramping up for the upcoming movie of 'Fate/Stay night' comes this 1/7th scale figure of Saber.
Saber is sculpted in a dynamic leaping forward pose ,striking down with her sword 'Excalibur. Since she is held up only by 1 leg, I hope GSC reinforced that leg to prevent any leaning of the figure. I do like the pose though and would probably find a slain monster to serve as fodder for Saber when displaying her :)

Detailiing on the figure is fantastic, with etching on the armor and Excalibur sharp and clean. Nice shading on her skirt armor to give the figure depth. Best of all is that two separate swords are included: the standard Excalibur, as well as 'Invisible Air', which makes use of clear plastic to truly make it seem more like an invisible sword. This is really the icing on the cake for this figure and rounds it off nicely.

I already have a few Saber figures and was planning on skipping this release. However after looking at it further, i believe this will be a great figure. So adding this to my collection.

Have a look at the pics and decide if you want to snag one too.

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally and offer free shipping to Singapore.

Product Details

Product Name Saber ~Triumphant Excalibur~ (せいばーやくそくされたしょうりのけん（えくすかりばー）)
Series Fate/stay night
Manufacturer Good Smile Company
Category PVC
Price 9800Yen
Release Date 2010/07
Specifications Painted PVC figure, 1/7th scale, approx 25cm(H)
Sculptor Hironori Tokunaga
Cooperation Takayuki Kawahara

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2780/Saber+Triumphant+Excalibur.html
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GSC X MaxFactory WonderFest 2010 Exclusives - PVC, Nendoroids, Figmas, Vinyl

2010-01-18T04:21:00.000-08:00

GoodSmile Company has officially announced a slew of exclusive items that are going to be released in conjunction with Wonderfest 2010 and as online exclusives. Most of the exclusives will be first released in “Wonderful Hobby Life for You 11″at WF2010[Winter] on February 07, 2010. Online pre-orders will start at Good Smile Online Shop from February 08 – 13, 2010, and items will be released on June 2010.

They have really come up with a great lineup this time and I'm sure many collectors will be scrambling to get their hands on them. Collectors outside of japan will of course expect to pay through their noses again for these beauties. (sigh.. I am one of these poor souls)

Well.. as usual we start off with my favorite... NENDOROIDS.

Nendoroid Snow Miku

To commemorate the snow sculpture of 'Snow Miku' to be erected at the 61st Sapporo Snow Festival, comes a Nendoroid of Snow Miku. YES!!.. not a nendoroid petit but a "full sized "nendoroid!!

I simply love this nendoroid. When news of the nendoroid petit snow miku was released, I had wished that they made a full sized nendoroid of snow miku. Now my prayers had been answered..Well sort of.. since this is an exclusive...

The design on this nendo is simply fantastic. The ends of her long twin-tail hair is made from clear plastic with snowflakes printed into her hair. This matched perfectly with her ice blue outfit with parts coated with a glimmering silver coating. An absolutely beautiful nendo i would say.

In addition to Wonderfest 2010 and online, Snow Miku will also be solded at the 61st Sapporo Snow Festival (5th February - 11th February). If any of you are lucky enough to be at the right place at the right time.. try to grab one :)

Specs

Product name Nendoroid Snow Miku (ねんどろいどゆきみく)
Series Character Vocal Series 01: Miku Hatsune
Price 3,000Yen
Release Date 2010/02
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - stand included - approx 10cm(H)
Sculptor Yukiwo Ageta (Max Factory) Cooperation Nendoron
Sapporo Winter Festival/Wonder Festival 2010 Limited Edition Product

Nendoroid K-ON! Mio and Ritsu: Live Stage Set

From the current hit anime'K-ON' comes these Nendoroids of the K-ON club's bassist 'Mio Akiyama' and drummer 'Ritsu Tainaka' wearing the outfits from the Sakura High Festival performance.

Both of them comes with two separate expressions, Nendoroid sized instruments and a mike stand. To round it off ,a di:stage to recreate their live performance is also included.

I wonder is this anime accurate?? Down to Mio's pantsu.... :P

Specs

Product name Nendoroid K-ON! Mio and Ritsu: Live Stage Set (ねんどろいどけいおん！みお＆りつらいぶすてーじせっと)
Series K-ON!
Price 8,000Yen
Release Date 2010/02
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figures - approx 10cm(H)
Sculptors Mio by Yukiwo Ageta and Ritsu by Maruhige
Cooperation Nendoron
Wonder Festival 2010 Limited Edition Product

Saber Lily ~Golden Caliburn~ 1/7 PVC Figure

Riding on the popularity of the previous figure 'Saber Lily ~Distant Avalon~, GSC milks us again with this version. Saber is back again wearing less armor, and wearing a white flowing dress . Facial expression has also been altered from fierce stern face to a subtle smile. (slightly scary in a ghostly kind of way)

Instead of holding Avalon in her left hand, now she is holding Caliburn's scabbard. Scabbard is nicely detailed and in certain angles seem to match Caliburn better then the bulky Avalon.

I personally prefer the original Saber Lily ~Distant Avalon~. To me this version just makes Saber looks "naked". And somehow that just strikes the wrong chord with me.

It is still a nice PVC though, and die hard Saber fans will snap this up anyway.

Specs

Product name Saber Lily ~Golden Caliburn~ (セイバー・りりぃ～しょうりすべきおうごんのけん（かりばーん）～)
Series Fate/unlimited codes
Price 9,000Yen
Release Date 2010/02
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/7th scale - approx 23cm(H)
Sculptor Takayuki Kawahara
Wonder Festival 2010 Limited Edition Product

Figma Ui Hirasawa: School Uniform ver.

Following closely behind her older sister, comes a figma of Ui Hirasawa to continue the K-ON figma series!

Three expressions are included: A simple smiling face, another smiling face with an open mouth, and a worried face - all of which can be used with her older sister Yui's figma as well. Her schoolbag and castanets are also included.

Lolz.. basically Yui with different hair :) Another chaser for K-On fans.

Specs

Product name figma Ui Hirasawa: School Uniform ver. (ふぃぐまひらさわういせいふくver.) Series K-ON!
Price 2,500Yen
Release Date 2010/02
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - approx 13.5cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory Sold by Max Factory
Distributor Good Smile Company
Wonder Festival 2010 Limited Edition Product

Other exclusives include sets of Sailor uniforma and Miko outfits for the FREEing 1/4 Scale Lucky Star PVC Figures. 4000Yen (excluding the figures)
and also this soft vinyl toy of Tomokazu Seki - Aztecaser . he's apparently a pro wrestler. From Maxfactory @ 3500Yen.

Thats all folks... a nice lot. Now the trouble is getting your hands on them :P

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/top/eng/
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MaxFactory Figma - Yomi Isayama , Kagome Higurashi , Yui Hirasawa: School Uniform ver.

2010-01-14T19:11:00.000-08:00

A flurry of Figmas have been announced on GSC's website the past few days. Being the lazy ass that I am, I decided to lump them together and just do 1 post :P

We start off with Yomi!
From the popular anime Ga-Rei: Zero comes a figma of Yomi Isayama, the agent from the supernatural disaster prevention agency.

Yomi comes with her sword 'Shishio', cellphone and an iron.. yes an iron. Apparently its an anti-spirit weapon lolz.. She also comes with exchangeable pony-tail parts to recreate her in her transformed form. Three face parts are included - smiling face, a scowling face , sinister dark smiling face.

Get Yomi HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Specs

Product name figma Yomi Isayama (ふぃぐまいさやまよみ)
Series Ga-Rei: Zero
Price 2,800Yen (~SGD$42)
Release Date 2010/05
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - approx 14cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory
Sold by Max Factory
Distributor Good Smile Company

and we move on to Kagome!!

From hugely popular manga/anime series , Inuyasha comes a figma of the heroine, Kagome Higurashi.

This figma only comes with 2 facial expressions (smiling and stern face) and her bow, six arrows and quiver. I would like liked more accessories for her, like maybe her huge schoolbag brimming with her textbooks or even a small Shikon jewel...

Hope more inuyasha characters are figmatised [or even better.. Nendorised.. :) ] with more accessories.

Get Kagome HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally

Specs

Product name figma Kagome Higurashi (ふぃぐま　ひぐらしかごめ)
Series Inuyasha
Price 2,500Yen (~SGD$38)
Release Date 2010/04
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - approx 13.5cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory
Sold by Max Factory
Distributor Good Smile Company

and lastly we have Figma Yui Hirasawa: School Uniform ver. I can imagine K-On fans jumping up and down already... :P

From the popular anime 'K-ON' comes the long-awaited figma of Sakura High School's music club's guitarist, Yui Hirasawa!

This figma would come with
* Two expressions are included: a beaming smile perfect for Yui, along with a more tense smile that she often showed in the anime.
* A blank face and stickers are also included, allowing you to recreate another expression for yourself.
* Her beloved guitar which she nicknamed 'Giita' is included along with a guitar strap - and even a guitar case.

K-On fans should snap this up.. though getting her sister Ui would take considerable more effort.... (more on this later)

Get Yui Here from PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Specs

Product name figma Yui Hirasawa: School Uniform ver. (ふぃぐまひらさわゆいせいふくver.)
Series K-ON!
Price 2,800Yen (~SGD$42)
Release Date 2010/01
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - approx 13.5cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory
Sold by Max Factory
Distributor Good Smile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/top/eng
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Kotobukiya D-Style Mobile Police Patlabor - Mobile Police Patlabor AV-98 Ingram 1 Partially Painted Plastic Kit

2010-01-14T07:27:00.000-08:00

Kotobukiya is going to release a Super-Deformed version of Patlabor AV-98 Ingram 1 as a plastic model kit. This will be the first in Kotobukiya’s new D-Style series of deformed mecha.Expected to be released May 2010 for a rrp of 1500Yen, this cute little guy looks absolutely Fantastic.

The kit would come with the Revolver Cannon, Stun Stick, shield. Featuring tamp printing and multi-color plastic, this is great news for folks like myself who know nuts about painting kits. For a SD model kit, this touts having a wide range of articulation which is a definite plus allowing you to pose the completed figure.

I must say I simply Love this kit. The Ingram looks so good super deformed and actually looks like someone just zapped a full sized version with a shrinking ray =)
Hopefully the kit would be easy to put together and hold together well.

Looking forward to this...

Specs
Item name :
D-Style Mobile Police Patlabor AV-98 Ingram 1
Manufacturer : Kotobukiya
Original : Mobile Police Patlabor
Specifications: Partially Painted Plastic Model Kit -Non Scale - approx 10.5cm(H)
Release Date : May 2010
Recommended Price: 1500YEN (~SGD$2)

Credits:http://www.amiami.com/shop/shop?vgForm=ProductInfo&sku=TOY-RBT-1054&template=e_review.html&set=english
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Kotobukiya Shining Wind - Xecty Eve 1/8 PVC Figure

2010-01-14T05:55:00.000-08:00

From the PS2 action role-playing game developed by Nextech and Amusement Vision and published by Segam Kotobukiya is going to release the Xecty Eve ( ゼクティ・イヴ ) 1/8 PVC figure form the “Shining” game series “Shining Wind”.

Clad in red , with horns and a huge scythe, I find this rendition of Xecty looks even better then the earlier Military Version. The red and white colors give the figure a bold/strong feeling and coupled this with that wicked looking scythe elevates Xecty to AFF status. Closer inspection also reveals some fine detailing on the figure, like the ruffles on her coat in the waist area and the metal looking eyelets that the laces go through on her arms. Facial expression though bland but does add to the stoic feel of the whole figure. I would have liked that the eyes portray a more piercing stare but.. oh well..

A nice figure to add to your collection whether you are a Shining Wind fans or just love beautiful females with huge weapons (AFFs). This will be released in May 2010 for a rrp of 6,800Yen.

Get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Specs
Product name Xecty Eve
Series Shining Wind
Price 6,800 Yen (~SGD$105)
Release Date 2010/03
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/8th scale - approximately 20cm(H)
Sculptor Hirotoshi Nakamura

Credits:http://www.amiami.com/shop/shop?vgForm=ProductInfo&sku=FIG-MOE-1527&template=e_review.html&set=english
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Bandai SOC GX-53 Daitarn 3

2010-01-12T23:27:00.000-08:00

Long anticipated by fans of old school Super Robot Animes, Daitarn 3 will join Bandai's Soul of Chogokin series. Standing at 25cm tall, Daitarn is scheduled to be released April 2010 for a recommended retail price of 19,800Yen (~SGD$308).

Daitarn 3 will be a combiner consisting of Daifighter, Daitank & Mach Patrol. Each component is touted to replicate transformation from the anime with Mach Patrol being able to transform between place and car mode too. This chogokin would come with a wealth of accessories including the memorable Daitarn Fan.

The transformation, accessories and being a combiner definitely makes this something SOC lovers (like myself) is looking forward to.

The pre-order for this has already opened at a number of local shops. PO price is around SGD$210.

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Comiket 77 Coverage - Nendoroids & Figmas

2009-12-29T19:18:00.001-08:00

I thought I would do a short coverage on the ongoing Comiket 77.
Otherwise known as the Comic Market (コミックマーケット), Comiket is the world's largest handmade comic book fair. Held twice a year in Tokyo , once in August, and once in December. These are referred to typically as Summer Comiket and Winter Comiket respectively.

The current ongoing one would be a Winter Comiket running from December 29 to 31st 2009.

This coverage will just focus on Nendoroids and Figmas.

We will of course start off with my fave.. Nendoroids :)

Black Rock Shooter nendoroid..NICE!! price and release date TBA

Azusa. K-On Fans would be so happy. Expected in May 2010.. ~nyan~
The Highly anticipated pair from Nanoha... Iam waiting for their release myself :)
Nendoroid Puchi Bakemonogatari #02
Fate Stay Night nendo petits... cute..but i still prefer full sized
"Touhou Nendoroid Petit Chapter Project" Release Date TBA Price TBA
Seems to be a gift online shop exclusive... Reimu from Touhou project

Thats a wrap for nendoroids. We move on to figmas

Figma Kirisame Marisa ..a skinny marisa lolz...expected April 2010

very nice looking Rider from Fate Stay Night. Expected in May 2010
Kagome from Inuyasha! Omg... hope they release Inuyasha himself. Love this series
Isayama Yomi from Ga-Rei -ZeroNo idea who he is.. and judging by the looks of him..dun give a crap either...lolz

Credits:
http://blog.hobbystock.jp/report/2009/12/tp0291.html
http://akibahobby.net/2009/12/c77_photo.html
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Nendoroid Petit Snow Miku

2009-12-28T07:38:00.000-08:00

Straight from Mika-tan's blog, I saw this absolutely beautiful version of Nendoroid Petit Miku. Looks like this Snow Miku will be packaged with the VOCALOID SEASON COLLECTION ～SNOW SONGS～ CD. Nendoroid petit Snow Miku will be an *Animate & Amazon Online limited item.

GSC should release official information about this soon, so stay tuned here for more details.
Too bad its a Nendoroid Petit and not a full sized (oooHhh.. oxymoron here) nendoroid. But i simply love the design of this Snow Miku and she maybe my first Nendoroid petit :)

*UPDATE : GOOD NEWS FOR ALL!!.. OTACUTE will be taking pre-orders from this starting from 4 Jan 2010 , 12pm(JST). Heard that stocks are really LIMITED.. so prepare to camp there if you want to get one :)

*Update 29 Dec 09: GSC has released official information on this Snow Songs CD and the cute Nendoroid Petit that comes with it.

Bad news is that within 3 hours of opening for pre-order on amazon japan it has SOLD OUT! I will keep my eyes open and post here in the off chance on where you can get your hands on one. Wish me Luck :)

This set of VOCALOID songs based on the theme of winter ballads have been taken from Niconico Douga. The set includes songs from doriko, who climbed up the Oricon Daily ranking charts all the way to rank 12, as well as 19's Sound Factory, who are already closing on a country-wide album release, as well as many others to make it the best collection of songs this winter.

Of course included is a newly designed Winter version of Miku's Petite Nendoroid with the color scheme designed by Mikatan.. nice design sense she has...

Only 10,000 sets will be available.

Track Listing

1) Snow Piece　-　19's Sound Factory feat. Miku Hatsune
2) Winter Alice　-　doriko feat. Miku Hatsune
3) Hitohira no　-　Noripii feat. Miku Hatsune
4) Fuyu no Seiza　-　Captain Mirai feat.Rin Kagamine
5) Chillyditty Of February　-　DARS feat.KAITO
6) soundless voice -　Hitoshizuku P feat.Len Kagamine
7) White Lights　-　Haura P feat.Miku Hatsune
8) Yuki Usagi　-　OSTER project feat.MEIKO
9) Kimibun -　40mP feat.Miku Hatsune
10) Tsunaida Te -　mikuru396 feat.Miku Hatsune
11) Fuyu no Mahou - Studio IIG feat.Miku Hatsune
12) Fuyu no Sakura - SixteenRemix 　AVTechNO! feat.Luca Megurine

Specs

Product name VOCALOID SEASON COLLECTION ~SNOW SONGS~ & Nendoroid Petite: Snow Miku Set (ぼーかろいどしーずんこれくしょん～すのーそんぐす～　ねんどろいどぷちゆきみくせっと)
Series VOCALOID SEASON COLLECTION ~NOW SONGS~
Release Date 2010/02
Price 2000yen
Specifications CD & Petite Nendoroid Set (Limited to 10000 sets)
Sculptor Nendoroid
Colouring Design Mikatan
Sold at amazon.co.jp & animate stores
Sold by/Distributor Good Smile Company

Credits:http://ameblo.jp/gsc-mikatan
http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2769/VOCALOID+SEASON+COLLECTION+SNOW+SONGS+Nendoroid+Petite+Snow+Miku+Set.html
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Maxfactory - BLACK ROCK SHOOTER(Black Blade ver. ) 1/8 PVC Figure

2009-12-25T21:14:00.000-08:00

Fans of Black Rock Shooter rejoice! Good Smile Company is going to release yet another Black Rock Shooter 1/8 PVC figure. This time they have done away with the huge gun/Rock Cannon (which was the best part imho..) and replaced it was a tiny black blade. Voila, you have BLACK ROCK SHOOTER(Black Blade ver. ) standing at 23cm tall with a rrp of 6800Yen.

The new BRS is significantly cheaper then the original BRS which had retailed for 9800Yen (3000Yen roughly translates to SGD$46).

Another notable difference is removing her jacket with her free hand and stands on a much more compact base compared to before. overall I still think the original BRS looks more"complete" and better then this version. Having Rock Cannon and wearing her jacket had added a certain flair which i feel is now lacking in BRS-Black Blade Ver. Oh well, you could settle for 2nd best if you really can't get your hands on the first i guess.

I will pass on this just like I passed on the original BRS. I'am no lolicon :)
Too bad she is so "flat" and I really prefer my females more busty. I would grab this PVC if only it was more voluptuous. Maybe they would make a 'matured version" later??? lolz.. one can hope :P

Meanwhile you can get your BRS~Blade HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Specs

Product name BLACK ROCK SHOOTER: Black Blade ver. (ぶらっく★ろっくしゅーたーぶらっくぶれーどばーじょん)
Series BLACK ROCK SHOOTER
Price 6,800Yen (~SGD$104)
Release Date 2010/04
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/8th scale - approx 23cm(H)
Sculptor Akeji
Distributor Good Smile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2817/BLACK+ROCK+SHOOTER%3A+Black+Blade+ver..html
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Nendoroid Sanae Kochiya

2009-12-25T20:30:00.000-08:00

Scheduled for release April 2010 is the third Nendoroid in the Touhou collection - Sanae Kotiya, the priestess of Moriya Shrine.

Sanae is sculpted wearing her blue and white priestess outfit, as well as her snake and a frog-shaped trademark hair accessories. I like the print pattern on her skirt and colors of this nendoroid. This nendoroid comes with a standard face, a smiling face and a totally kawaii worried face . Also included is her wand(stick???) that Mikos use to complete the picture.

Just like the other Touhou Nendoroid, this nendoroid is limited to be sold in the selected
stores.

NicoNico Chokuhan: （http://niconico.qt.shopserve.jp/）
Animate: （http://www.animate.co.jp/）
Gamers: （http://www.broccoli.co.jp/gamers/）
Toranoana: （http://www.toranoana.jp/）

A bit more trouble to get your hands on one, but considering how cute Sanae is... Well worth the effort :)

Or you can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Specs

Product name Nendoroid Sanae Kochiya (ねんどろいどこちやさなえ)
Series Touhou Project
Price 3,000Yen(~SGD$46)
Release Date 2010/04
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - stand included - approx 10cm(H)
Sculptor Yaruo (LAUGH)
Sculpting Assistance Nendoron
Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2816/Nendoroid+Sanae+Kochiya.html
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MaxFactory Figma Ga-Rei: Zero - Kagura Tsuchimiya

2009-12-25T20:08:00.000-08:00

MaxFactory is going to release a Figma of the heroine of the popular anime Ga-Rei: Zero , Kagura Tsuchimiya. Scheduled for release April 2010 at a rrp of 2800Yen this figma has been long anticipated by Ga-Rei:Zero fans.

This figma comes with 3 faces (normal face, shouting face and laughing face), a cellphone and various hand parks to hold it. Weapons include 'Michael #12' is included, as well as the weapon used in the last episode, Dokkosho.

This figma would be just another jap schoolgirl in her uniform if not for the included chain parts that can be attached to 'Michael #12' allowing recreation of various action scenes. Though just a simple chain, it does add a certain "oophm" factor to this Figma.

With quite a nice character design , a big sword and the chain to round it off... This Figma might be worth getting.

You can get yours HERE at PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Specs

Product name figma Kagura Tsuchimiya (ふぃぐま　つちみやかぐら)
Series Ga-Rei: Zero
Price 2,800Yen (~SGD$43)
Release Date 2010/04
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - approx 13.5cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory
Sold by Max Factory
Distributor Good Smile Company
Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2814/figma+Kagura+Tsuchimiya.html

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Medicos Entertainment JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure - Crazy Diamond Action Figure

2009-12-22T07:18:00.000-08:00

From Medicos Entertainment’s Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure line comes an action figure of Crazy Diamond.Scheduled to be released in March 2010 at a rrp of 3500Yen, i decided to post this as I thought it looks pretty cool.

This figure is based on the original manga image, seems to be well detailed and articulated. Also included is a dizzying array of of option parts, such as a shouting head, 11 option hands , a speech baloon that reads "Dorararararararararatsu!" , a rifle bullet and the blood stained glass used in the climactic final battle. Thats good value for 3500Yen :)

I think the character design looks good and particularly love the hand which allows crazy diamond to hold various objects between his fingertips (see pics below).

Maybe getting this just for kicks... :)

Get yours HERE at PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Specs

Product name Super Action Statue JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure Part 4 13. Crazy Diamond
Series JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
Price 3,500Yen (~SGD$54)
Release Date 2010/03
Specifications Pre-painted Poseable Figure- PVC/ABS -approx 17cm(H)
Sculptor PROGRESS
Maker Medicos Entertainment

Credits:http://www.amiami.com/shop/shop?vgForm=ProductInfo&sku=FIG-IPN-0964&template=e_review.html&set=english

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Alter Saki - Yuki Kataoka 1/8 PVC Figure

2009-12-21T22:34:00.000-08:00

From Saki the anime/manga series revolving the competitive world of mahjong, comes a PVC figure of Yuki Kataoka a a member of the mahjong club. I have been wanting to watch this anime for some time as I am a mahjong fan myself, unfortunately I never got around to it.

Yuki comes with the Cat-Snake Seamy and her favourite food taco and a taco paper bad as accessories. The facial expression and pose of this figure catches a lively, bouncy girl image nicely. Coupled with the white and baby blue uniform the figure just screams FRESH... :)

perhaps this will appeal to lolicons or fans of the Saki series, but to me its just a young girl in jap school uniform. Pass for me :P I prefer my females more "mature" and with bigger.... eyes... :)

Specs
Item name : Yuki Kataoka
Original : Saki
Dimensions : 1/8 scale, approx height 18cm(H)
Specifications:Pre-painted PVC Figure
Release Date : May 2010
Price : 6800Yen (~SGD$104)
Sculpted by: Eriko (Kogyo new house)

Credits:http://www.amiami.com/shop/?set=english&vgForm=ProductInfo&sku=FIG-MOE-1484&template=default/product/e_display.html
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Alter Rance VI -Collapse of Zeth - Masou Shizuka 1/8 PVC Figure

2009-12-21T20:05:00.000-08:00

Pic courtesy of Rance VI Jap Official Page

For the long running Rance Series, specifically Rance VI -Collapse of Zeth is a 1/8 PVC figure of Shizuka Masou. Rance is a series of Japan-exclusive eroge computer role-playing games by Alice Soft that has lasted already for 20 years, making it one of the longest running adult themed games ever.

Shizuka is has well sculpted by Alter with her form-fitting dress and cute magician's hat (which is removable). Shading has also been very well done on this figure with the colors on her cloak and also bottom giving a certain depth to the figure. I am normally not a fan of green and at first glance was thinking if that the figure would look perfect with a white dress. However the colors sort of grow on you and is actually accurate to the game character design. Facial expression is ok , nothing special but at least it does with her pose. The half turned pose is not something i like since it does sometime make it difficult to find a good angle to pose the figure. In this case, its not so bad and again the nicely done shading adds that feeling of movement and depth.

Sadly no other accessories are included besides the removable hat and the base. A few accessories would have been nice.

Overall a nicely sculpted female figure that you may consider for your collection.

Specs
Item name : Masou Shizuka
Original : Rance Series
Dimensions : 1/8 scale, approx height 21cm(H) (with cap)
Specifications:Pre-painted PVC Figure
Release Date : May 2010
Price : 6800Yen (~SGD$104)
Sculpted by: Eriko (Kogyo new house)

Credits:http://www.amiami.com/shop/shop?vgForm=ProductInfo&sku=FIG-MOE-1483&template=e_review.html&set=english
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Gift Touhou Project - Reimu Hakurei 1/8 PVC Figure

2009-12-18T22:51:00.000-08:00

Tired.. so I'am going to make this short and sweet.

1/8 PVC Figure of Reimu Hakurei from Touhou Project to be released by Gift March 2010. Original design was from a garage kit by Kitsutefu.

This seems to be an Japan online store exclusive so you probably have to buy through a proxy. Alternatively AmiAmi seems to be stocking this so you can get yours from them.

I find the nendoroid of Reimu much nicer and cuter then this PVC so I'am going to give this a miss.

Specs

Product name Reimu Hakurei (はくれいれいむ)
Series Touhou Project
Price 7,140Yen (~SGD$110)
Release Date 2010/03
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/8th scale - approx 20cm(H)
Sculptor Kitsukefu
Sold by Gift
Distributor Goodsmile Company
Sold at Niconico Chokuhan - Amiami - animate stores - GAMERS - Tora no Ana stores

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2806/Reimu+Hakurei.html
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Kotobukiya HoiHoi-san Legacy - Combat-san Model Kit

2009-12-17T06:46:00.000-08:00

Kotobukiya must have heard my whining in my post on HoiHoi-San (Heavy Duty Fighter Ver) , cos they have Finally announced COMBAT-San. Combat-San will closely follow the Heavy duty ver of HoiHoi-San and be released in April 2010. For those who watched the OVA, Combat-san is HoiHoi-San rival and is supposed to be a more advanced version made by a rival company. Combat-San's mission is to destroy HoiHoi-San though she always fails miserably. :)

This kit of combat-san comes pre-painted like HoiHoi-San in white and blue scheme. Combat-San also features the same exchangeable inner face system which allows her eyes to look left and right(see pic below) The kit includes a rapid rifle and 2 arm stun-guns for weapons.

I can't wait to get my hands on combat-san to pair up with HoiHoi-San :)

Nuff said.. get off your lazy ass and PO yours ASAP :)

Specs
Item name : Combat-san
Manufacturer : Kotobukiya
Original : Ichigeki Sacchu!! HoiHoi-san Legacy
Specifications: Plastic building model kit - 1:1 scale - approx 13cm(H)
Release Date : Apr 2010
Recommended Price: 3,000YEN (~SGD$46)

Credits:http://www.amiami.com/shop/?set=english&vgForm=ProductInfo&sku=FIG-MOE-1475&template=default/product/e_display.html

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MaxFactory Figma Urusei Yatsura - Lum

2009-12-17T02:49:00.000-08:00

From the manga Urusei Yatsura comes a Figma of Lum, the main heroine. Scheduled to be released March 2010 for 2500Yen. I have no idea whatsoever of Lum or Urusei Yatsura since I have never read the manga, so this will be just a bikini clad Figma to me :P

Lum is sculpted wearing a tiger-striped bikini and comes with 3 faces ; normal, cross-eyed and crazy bitch look... I like the her crazed look and when paired with lightening accessory which can me attached to her hand, actually looks pretty cool.

Also included is a really cute little boy "Ten-Chan" who apparently is Lum's cousin. Ten Chan is really a blob of cuteness and MaxFactory has included an additional stand attachment so he can be posed to be flying around Lum(see pics below). Again extremely cute and cool side-by-side with Lum

I normally would not get Figmas of bikini clad females characters that I am not familiar with, however Lum just might make me have an exception. The pairing with Ten-chan could be too cute to resist :)

Specs

Product name figma Lum (ふぃぐま　らむ)
Series Urusei Yatsura
Price 2,500Yen (~SGD$39)
Release Date 2010/03
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - approx 14cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory
Sold by Max Factory
Distributor Good Smile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2798/figma+Lum.html
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MaxFactory Figma Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS - Subaru Nakajima (Barrier Jacket Ver. )

2009-12-17T02:29:00.000-08:00

Continuing with the cast of the Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha series (specifically the 3 season StrikerS) , Maxfactory will be releasing a figma Subaru Nakajima , March 2010.

This Figma includes

The 'Revolver Knuckle' that attaches to her left arm is included, allowing you to reenact the final battle scene.
Effect parts allowing you to recreate the various effects of her magical attacks are included for those intense battle scenes.
3 faces - A bright smiling face, an expression with gritted teeth, as well as the shouting face when she awakened her power as a cyborg are all included.

This figma is pretty standard with the previous releases from Nanoha series, with various accessories and close to anime accurate color/sculpt. Subaru has the added advantage of being able to "hide" her figma joints under those elbow and knee pads and the only onlys apparent are those at her groin.

Nanoha fans looking to complete the cast from the Nanoha series will jump on this and hope that they will release Teana ,Caro Ru Lushe and Erio soon (though we haven't seen any news or protos of these figures)

Also a good alternative for folks who couldnt afford the ActSta version of Subaru :)

Specs

Product name figma Subaru Nakajima: Barrier Jacket ver. (ふぃぐま　すばる・なかじま　ばりあじゃけっとばーじょん)
Series Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha StrikerS
Price 2,800Yen (~SGD$43)
Release Date 2010/03
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - approx 14cm(H)
Sculptor Masaki Asai - Max Factory
Sold by Max Factory
Distributor Good Smile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2799/figma+Subaru+Nakajima%3A+Barrier+Jacket+ver..html
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Freeing Sengoku Rance - Senhime 1/5 PVC Figure

2009-12-17T02:02:00.000-08:00

From the Rance series of Japan-exclusive eroge PC RPG by Alice Soft specifically 'Sengoku Rance' comes a huge PVC figure of the violent princess of the Tokugawa family, 'Senhime'.

Somehow the pose seems to make Senhime seem demure and shy, couple this with the ambiguous facial expression a bishojo figure image is portrayed rather then a violent warring princess. The colors also seem rather bland and unexciting as they look muted and flat. Detailing is average and nothing really spectacular.

A slight consolation for some would be that the figure features a cast-off gimmick and her armor can be striped leaving her only in her pantsu :)

Overall , i would skip this figure as there are much better renditions out there (think Alter)

Specs

Product name Senhime (せんひめ)
Series Sengoku Rance
Price 12,800 yen (~SGD$199)
Release Date 2010/04
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/5 scale - approximately 35cm(H) (halberd included) Planning/Production/Sold By FREEing
Distributor Goodsmile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2801/Senhime.html
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Penguin Parade Shin Koihime Musou - Sousou (Karin) 1/8 PVC Figure

2009-12-15T18:24:00.001-08:00

Based on Koihime Musō: Doki Otome Darake no Sangokushi Engi, a Japanese adult visual novel and Strategy Game based on the classic Chinese novel Romance of the Three Kingdoms comes this 1/8th scale PVC figure of Sousou (Karin).

This figure is made by Penguin Parade and to be distributed by GSC. I'm not familiar with Penguin Parade so I do not have any previous reference point for their quality and detailing of PVC figures. The figure comes sculpted with her weapon 'Zetsu' held behind her back and has a cast off feature for her breast.

I like the color scheme of this figure. The dark navy blue with her blonde hair and dirty white leggings/shirt trimmings looks fantastic. However the color seems to be the only good thing about this figure. The figure does not have much detailing and closer inspection reveals imperfections in both painting and sculpting of the figure. The facial expression also leaves much to be desired as SouSou eyes looks like stickers as they are bland and lifeless... :( The base also looks bland and boring. Would have been better if they had provided perhaps a dark mahagony like wood base or even a sleek mirror/glass base.

Lolicons may take to this figure though quality of the figure would be a concern. I'll skip on this figure. There are other much better ARFs (Armed Female Figures) to choose from...

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally.

Specs

Product name Sousou (Karin) (そうそう（かりん）)
Series Shin Koihime Musou
Price 8,190Yen
Release Date 2010/05
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/8 scale - approximately 20cm(H)
Sculptor HOKUSOH
Production/Sold By Penguin Parade
Distributor Goodsmile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2793/Sousou+%28Karin%29.html
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Nendoroid Tsumugi Kotobuki

2009-12-15T18:00:00.000-08:00

Completing the original quartet from K-ON is the nendorised form of Tsumugi Kotobuki. Tsumugi is the K-ON club's keyboard player, although not as "hot" as the other band members (like MIO, Azunyan) she does have her own fan following.

This Nendoroid comes with a bevy of accessories we've come to expect from nendos of K-On. These include

3 Facial expressions- a smiling face, a giggling face, and confused blank face.
Her keyboard,
A tea-set
'Radish eyebrows' (As shown in the final episode of the anime)

Tsumugi just rounds off the cast of K-On and any K-on fan would defitnitely get this to complete the set (though most would argue theres still Azunyan). Nice touch of the tea-set to be included though from the pics ,I don't think they are as detailed as RE-Ment miniatures...

Displayed together, the 4 nendos of K-On rival the set from Lucky Star and I dare say looks even better due to the cool looking musical instruments :)

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationallly

Specs

Product name Nendoroid Tsumugi Kotobuki (ねんどろいどことぶきつむぎ)
Series K-ON!
Price 3,500Yen (~SGD$54)
Release Date 2010/04
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - stand included - approx 10cm(H) height
Sculptor Endo Kazuyoshi
Sculpting Assistance Nendoron

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2792/Nendoroid+Tsumugi+Kotobuki.html
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MaxFactory Character Vocal Series 01 - Miku Hatsune VN02 mix 1/8 PVC Figure

2009-12-10T02:21:00.000-08:00

Recently seen at WonderFest 2009 is this really cool cybernetic rendition of Miku Hatsune. This is a result from a collaboration between the popular illustrator Nagimiso and Max Factory and was originally illustrated by Nagimiso as a character for the VN02mix of Miku Hatsune's original song 'moon'.

Miku really seems to be everywhere... nendos, tons of pvcs and even Chogokin versions. Miku fever really has hit. :) Well on to this particular figure...

I like the color scheme on this figure. The glossy white and highlights the figure nicely though I think if the 'swirls" on the base was a different color.. maybe blue.... it would look nicer. The flying pose seems nice but it is a real space guzzler mainly due to Miku's "flying" hair. Facial expression does seem abit bland and dead. Not sure if this is intentional since she is supposed to be sort of like an android...

Seems like I'am griping alot about this figure but in fact I think its pretty NICE. Definitely would be a nice display piece and detailing looks really fine. Overall this is a nice figure , and I can't resist it when you combine Babes and Mecha :P

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally and offer free shipping to Singapore.

Specs

Product name Miku Hatsune VN02 mix (はつねみくぶいえぬぜろつー　みっくす)
Series Character Vocal Series 01: Miku Hatsune
Price 12,800 Yen (~SGD$202)
Release Date 2010/06
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/8th scale - approximately 27cm(H)
Sculptor Shining Wizard @ Sawachika (Max Factory)
Sold by Max Factory
Distributor Goodsmile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2788/Miku+Hatsune+VN02+mix.html
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Kotobukiya Ichigeki Sacchu!! HoiHoi-san Legacy - HoiHoi-san (Heavy Duty Fighter Ver)

2009-12-04T01:13:00.000-08:00

The super cute HoiHoi-San is BACK!! This time with cool with new parts and a different color scheme. Kotobukiya will be releasing another version of HoiHoi-San in March 2010. I am sure this is because of the terrific reception that the original HoiHoi-San kit received. [I bought 2 :) ]

The kit (which will come pre-painted) will include
2 new Option faces (Unhappy Face & Laughing Face)
1 new hair option part (Braids)
3 new weapons(Insecticide, HoiHoi Hammer , Heavy-Use Gun)

I totally love the character design of HoiHoi-San so I'm happy another version is coming out. Though I'am not too hot over the new color scheme, the new hair and weapons more then make up for it! The braided hair is a great new touch and the weapons are an absolute dream. just look at that fantastic minigun...

I love it... I will definitely get 1.. [or maybe 2 ?? :) ]
Now.. WHERE IS COMBAT-SAN??!!??? lolz

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally and offer free shipping to Singapore.

Specs
Item name : HoiHoi-san (Heavy Duty Fighter Ver.)
Manufacturer : Kotobukiya
Scale : 1/1
Original : Ichigeki Sacchu!! HoiHoi-san Legacy
Release Date : Mar 2010
Recommended Price: 3,800YEN (~SGD$59)

Credits:http://www.amiami.com/shop/?set=english&vgForm=ProductInfo&sku=FIG-MOE-1435&template=default/product/e_display.html

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UpLark K-ON! - Mio Akiyama 1/8 PVC Figure

2009-12-04T00:17:00.000-08:00

Manufactured by Uplark and to be distributed by GoodSmile Company is this 1/8 scale figure of Mio Akiyama from the hit anime K-ON.

Mio is sculpted wearing the wearing the Gothic dress designed by Sawako-sensei, that she wore on her first stage performance at the school festival. The figure also comes with a replaceable facial expression which depicts Mio being embarrassed.

I must say the sculpt of this figure is done very well. I especially like the translucent effect of her underskirt (is it called that?? or is the word petticoat??.. hmmmzz) , and the detailing on her guitar which by the way looks like its got 4 realistic guitar strings stringed on. Her embarrassed face expression is really spot on and makes you just want to comfort her..lolz . Color wise , the black slighted glossy look of her outfit seems nice and provides a slight contrast to a more matte hair.

I do find though that her feet are positioned weirdly and it looks like she sprained her right ankle. :P

Overall I've not much experience with UpLark figures so I'll wait and see how is the quality of this figure. K-On fans would naturally snap this up :), and maybe certain Gothic lovers , though her outfits is not really outlandishly gothic.

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally and offer free shipping to Singapore.

Anyways.. enjoy the pics.

Specs

Product name Mio Akiyama (あきやまみお)
Series K-ON!
Price 8,190Yen (~SGD$128)
Release Date 2010/03
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/8th scale - approximately 20cm(H)
Sculptor Mio Akiyama by Mesuka (UPLARK)/Base by Ani (UPLARK)
Sold by UPLARK
Distributor Goodsmile Company

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2782/Mio+Akiyama.html
http://ameblo.jp/gsc-mikatan/entry-10401962520.html
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DWToySpot Anime Festival Asia Video Coverage

2009-11-27T20:11:00.000-08:00

Hi Folks

There are the vidoe compliations Zinc7373 put together when he visited AFA09 on Sunday. Quite late I know, but these things take time. :P Here they are for your viewing pleasure.

Direct links
1 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=90aKQbM1OS U

2 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dhKwKQimGcY

3 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xI0e8gl1Yo8

4 - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X79RQNT041s

Remember these videos are always availible on the DWToySpot Video channel. So check back there for other great videos as well.

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Nendoroid Fate Testarossa: The MOVIE 1st Ver.

2009-11-27T03:29:00.000-08:00

As we have seen from the preview pics, GSC is going to release Fate Testarossa from 'Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha The MOVIE 1st'. This nendoroid is as anticipated or even more so then the earlier announcement of Nanoha.

Fate is decked out in a new design barrier jacket from the movie. She comes with 3 facial expressions : (stoic , serious and a closed eyes face). Other accessories include her device, Bardiche in both axe form and scythe form. Her familiar Arf is also included in dog form rounding up the nice plethora of accessories.

Fate looks simply adorable in nendo form and the sculpt is one of the nicest among the nendos out there. Colors are nice with her yellow hair contrasting with her dark outfit. The large complement of accesories for this nendo also adds alot to the value of this toy.

That being said, Nanoha fans would gobble this one up even if its a half melted mound of plastic :P A must get for me too since I like the series and love what that have done for this nendo.

Specs

Product name Nendoroid Fate Testarossa: The MOVIE 1st Ver. (ねんどろいどふぇいと・てすたろっさざむーびーふぁーすとばーじょん)
Series Magical Girl Lyrical Nanoha The MOVIE 1st
Price 3,500 Yen
Release Date 2010/03
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC posable figure - not to scale - stand included - approx 10cm(H)
Sculptor Yaruo (LOUGH)
Assistance Nendoron

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2772/Nendoroid+Fate+Testarossa%3A+The+MOVIE+1st+Ver..html
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Nendoroid Mimi USA

2009-11-24T20:22:00.000-08:00

next to be released from Kodomo No Jikan is Mimi USA. Scheduled for release March 2010, Mimi would complete the trio from the series. mimi comes with a total of 3 interchangable faces, a knapsack and what looks like a pushout set (teddy bear, smiley face) which you can attach to the figure.

Mimi is sculpted with her characteristic twin pigtails and glasses in sort of a babydoll outfit.
Seems to be this nendo would be very top heavy due to her hair and would definitely topple over without the included stand.

Although cute, I don't find anything special about this particular nendo and may give it a miss.

You can get yours HERE from PlayAsia. They ship internationally and offer free shipping to Singapore.

Specs Product name Nendoroid Mimi USA
Series Kodomo no Jikan
Price 3,500 Yen (~SGD$54)
Release Date 2010/03
Specifications Painted ABS&PVC figure - not to scale - stand included - approx 10cm(H)

Credits:http://www.goodsmile.info/detail/eng/2766/Nendoroid.html
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Kotobukiya Dead or Alive Xtreme2 Venus on the beach series - Kasumi 1/6 PVC Figure

2009-11-24T04:16:00.000-08:00

From Kotobukiya comes a 1/6 scale PVC figure of Haze. Normally I would just take a passing glance at bikini clad bishoujo figures , admire their beauty and move on. However this figure's facial sculpt (YES.. i said FACIAL Sculpt) look really good and drew me in to have a second look. Closer examination revealed I was rite and the facial expression on this figure looks really good. Kind of a mix between innocence and CFM [figure this one out for yourself :P]

Scheduled to released march 2010 at for 8800Yen, this would be a great addition to any bikini babe fan's collection.

Specs
Product name Kasumi
Series DEAD OR ALIVE Xtreme 2
Price 8,800 Yen (~SGD$137)
Release Date 2010/03
Specifications Painted PVC figure - 1/6 scale - approx 19.5cm(H)

Credits:http://www.hobbystock.jp/item/view/HBY-GCF-00003233
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First Look: Bandai/Disney Fireball - Drossel Chogokin Figure

2009-11-23T06:38:00.001-08:00

Heres some latest pics of Bandai's Drossel who is going to join us very soon as a Chogokin. From the 12 part Fireball anime, Drossel has one of the nicest female mecha design I've ever seen (the only other one i like is Eve from Wall-E).

This is scheduled to be released Feb 2010 at a rrp of 8000Yen (~SGD$124) .I do know the pre-orders for this a local shops have been open for some time now and the PO price of SGD$90 for the Hong Kong ver is more then reasonable.

Till then, enjoy these preview pics

Credits:Gits_sac from SGcollect forums
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