New Release Photo Review: POP Sailing Again LIMITED - Nami Crimin ver

POP Sailing Again LIMITED - Nami Crimin ver has been released last 20th of December along with the POPs Official Guidebook. Here are some early shots of one of the retail release (thanks to http://blog.livedoor.jp) and Nami looks so sexy as she was in the official promo images. 

This figure is a limited edition that comes only with the said guidebook. No word yet if this will be later sold separately without the book. But why not get her without the it. I think its nice for a POP collector to have that guidebook. She's still available on most online hobby shops so get her while you can. Limited editions like these has a little or no chance of being re-released not to mention it's price value skyrocketing as the stocks get lower. Mine will be arriving at our doorstep soon :)

Check out these photos below to help you decide if you also wanted one. I already covered the unboxing earlier on the Facebook page for you to see the guidebook. 

Official Photos: POP LIMITED Sadie-chan

POP LIMITED Sadie-chan has already appeared as a shop exclusive at the Megatrea Shop. They will start accepting preorders for this product starting 11th of January 2013, Friday at 13:00 (JST). Priced for 8,820 yen including tax and shipping. Release date is on June 2013. It is limited for Japan only, but it will probably be available on some re-seller that ships outside Japan at higher prices. I wonder why MegaHouse decided to make this a limited edition.

Up until now, I'm still having a mixed feeling about this POP. I love the painting details, the hair, the face and costume design, but there's something about the sculpt that I don't like, specially in the rib cage part. It looks like some elastic bent rubber. The breast is also weirdly shaped and I find that the arms are kind of long and thin. Totally out of proportion and I don't find her sexy. If this was a regular release, I might consider getting her, but being limited, I think it's not worth the price. I'll probably skip this one.

POP Sailing Again - Nami is going to be Re-released... Again

Along with the preorder announcement for POP Sailing Again - Trafalgar Law, MegaHouse also announces a re-release of POP Sailing Again - Nami. This will be the third release of this particular version of Sailing Again Nami. Does this mean MegaHouse is going to release all the POP Sailing Again Strawhats three times?

Preorders starts at the same time as POP Sailing Again - Trafalgar Law which will be on 9th of January 2013, Wednesday at 18:00 (JST). For those who doesn't have her yet, this is another chance for you. I'm not yet sure if the price will be exactly the same as the previous releases though, but I will keep you updated.

You can check out my personal documented experience and photo gallery of this product here

Update (2013-05-23): Re-release date has been moved from May 2013 to June 2013.

POP Sailing Again - Trafalgar Law Preorder Announcement

Preorders schedule has been announced for POP Sailing Again - Trafalgar Law. It is going to be on the 9th of January 2013, Wednesday at 18:00 (JST). Not so suprising since it was earlier announced that this is to be released on May 2013 for 8,400 yen during the Jump Festa 2013 event.

What's surprises me is that they are releasing Law this early in this appearance even if it isn't shown in the anime yet. But probably before May, he would appear in the anime so this will coincide with that surge of popularity. Well this guy is already popular before and even more now that he is looking badass awesome. A must get for me and for every fan of Trafalgar Law.

Figuarts ZERO - Boa Hancock (Battle ver.) and Sogeking (Battle ver.) Preorder Announcement

January preorder announcement for Figuarts ZERO has been lifted and it is going to be Boa Hancock (Battle ver) and Usopp as Sogeking (Battle ver.). Preorder starts on 8th of January, Tuesday at 16:00 (JST). These two figures were shown earlier during the Jump Festa 2013 event. I thought Bandai is going to hold their Battle ver series until all the Figuarts ZERO that were shown during the Tamashii Nation 2012 event has been released.

I was always waiting for Sogeking ever since it was revealed during the prevously held events and now he is going to be released with a nice phoenix flame effect parts. Boa Hancock is a surprise because there are already four or five versions of Figuarts ZERO Boa Hancock. I guess every Boa Hancock figure is a money maker for all figure manufacturers. In fact, this is going to be on my "must get" list. Love that outfit and those effect parts.

Below are the release date and pricing details

Figuarts ZERO - Boa Hancock (Battle ver.)

• Price: 3,990 yen
• Release: April 2013

Figuarts ZERO - Sogeking (Battle ver.)

• Price: 3,990 yen
• Release: April 2013

Update (2013-01-08): Preorders are now open at Amiami (Hancock | Sogeking), HLJ (Hancock | Sogeking) and Hobby Search (Hancock | Sogeking).

Update (2013-04-03): Official Release Dates

• Figuarts ZERO - Boa Hancock (Battle ver.): 27th of April 2013
• Figuarts ZERO - Sogeking (Battle ver.): 20th of April 2013

Jump Festa 2013 - One Piece Bandai Tamashii Nations

Bandai Tamashii Nations were also present at Jump Festa 2013 which was held last weekend, December 22-23 (Saturday and Sunday) at Makuhari Messe Convention Center in Japan bringing us excitements with their products. And as usual, my interest were drawn by their One Piece Figuarts ZERO line-up. Below are the photos of Bandai Tamashii Nations One Piece merchandise.

Jump Festa 2013 - One Piece MegaHouse

Jump Festa 2013 was just held last weekend, December 22-23 (Saturday and Sunday) at Makuhari Messe Convention Center in Japan. It was another surprising event for MegaHouse's POPs as they unleashed some new figure prototypes, show the painted/completed ones and made some announcements about prices and release dates. They also brought some non-POP One Piece MegaHouse products there, so let's gawk at these photos below.

Celebrating Christmas with POP Sailing Again Straw Hat Crew

It's almost time for Christmas. My favorite time of the year. I would like to take this opportunity to thank you all for following and supporting my blog as well as my Facebook page. So in return, I'll give you these nice shots I made with my POP Sailing Again Straw Hat crew in front of our little Christmas tree. As you can see, POP SA Franky is missing since it isn't released yet. Hopefully he will make it next Christmas.

This post has been setup for you to be able to download and use the photos as wallpapers on your PCs or on your HDTVs. I made 16:9 and 4:3 desktop aspect ratios so you can download whatever is best suited for you.

Merry Christmas to All :)

Official Photos: Figuarts ZERO - Ain (Officer Costume ver.)

Bandai is is really keeping up with their Figuarts ZERO Film Z releases. Unfortunately, most of them are Premium Bandai Web exclusives like those Film Z Battle Costume ver. Adding to those exclusive figures is this Figuarts ZERO - Ain (Officer Costume ver.). This is the second Figuarts ZERO of Ain. She is wearing her officer costume this time unlike the one released earlier. A Toei Animation Online Shop and Mekke Shueisha Shopping Plaza exclusive, which means that outside Japan, it is going to be about twice the original price.

Set to be released on July 2013 for 2,940 yen. It is already available for preorder on those online shops so if you happen to be staying in Japan (and can read/understand Japanese websites), you can visit those sites and order up. Otherwise, you will have to find seller that will ship outside Japan but that will cost you. 

For me, I'll just see my chances of getting her after the release date. I'd like to find out first if it is worth the price and the trouble or not. Like I said, it is going to be the around twice the original price outside Japan, which is actually about the same price as an average POP. Who knows, MegaHouse might release better POP version of her, then that would probably be worth every penny.

New Release Photo Review: Figuarts ZERO - Ain

Released at the same date as Figuarts ZERO - Monkey D. Luffy (Film Z Kessen Costume ver), Figuarts ZERO - Ain was also made available by Bandai last Saturday, 15th of December 2012, and here are some early images taken from one of the retail release.

Same as my impression as the Figuarts ZERO - Monkey D. Luffy (Film Z Kessen Costume ver), Ain is also looking pretty nice. Well she isn't as gorgeously looking as on the promo images (as those images were post processed), but she looks close enough. Paint application is finely done. It also comes with a translucent red base stand, it seems like all the Film Z Figuarts ZEROs will have the same. As for a Figuarts ZERO, the quality of this one is quite acceptable.

Ain retails for 2,625 yen, and like Luffy, I also didn't preordered this one before, but she is going to be on my display shelf soon. If you are also interestedI, this figure still available on major online stores.

New Release Photo Review: Figuarts ZERO - Monkey D. Luffy (Film Z Kessen Costume ver)

The Figuarts ZERO - Monkey D. Luffy (Film Z Kessen Costume ver) has been released last Saturday, 15th of December 2012, along with Figuarts ZERO - Ain, and here are some early images taken from one of the retail release. For me, it's looking good and really not bad for a Figuarts ZERO.

The mold has some imperfections, but believe me, I've seen worst. The paint is done nicely and there's not much very obvious paint issues visible. It comes with a translucent red base stand this time unlike other One Piece Figuarts ZEROs which comes with translucent black base stands.

I didn't preorder this earlier because I'm kind of worried about the outcome of the retail release, but now I'm thinking of getting this one some time soon. Not a bad addition to anyone's Figuarts ZERO collection. It is retailed for 2,310 yen, and is still available on most hobby shops. 

Official Photos: ArtFX+ Wonder Woman (The New 52 Edition)

The sixth addition to the ArtFX+ Justice League (The New 52 Editions) is the one and only female heroine Wonder Woman and Kotobukiya just released the official images of the painted prototype. A teaser photo of her was shown two days ago on Kotobukiya's Facebook page so her revelation was expected. As it turns out, her looks isn't very much appealing to me.

A non-painted sculpt was revealed previously during the SDCC 2012, so I'm not too surprised about the sculpt but the paint colors aren't exactly what I have in mind. Those red and blue isn't as striking as the other figures on this line-up. It looks dull. The face isn't very feminine, somehow lifeless and looks odd on some angles.

The chest part is also a disappointment because Wonder Woman is known to be a busty heroine. Overall looks can be acceptable, but she the only jewel in the Justice League so she is supposed to look way better than this. The thing is that, if you're going to collect all of them (The New 52 Editions), you'll have to include her in your list. Well she isn't too bad actually, it's just that this isn't what I expected her looks to be like. I hope Kotobukiya would do some fine changes on her before the release. 

Scheduled for June 2013 release in the US, probably a May 2013 release in Japan. Till that time, here's hoping that Kotobukiya would consider some adjustments, making her look much better.

Figuarts ZERO Film Z Battle Costume ver Preorders

The exact preorder date for Figuarts ZERO Film Z Battle Costume ver has been lifted and it will be on the 15th 14th of December 2012. No exact timing schedule yet, but I assume that it will be at the same usual time at 16:00 (JST).

It was announced earlier that it will be sold in sets on three (Luffy/Chopper/Franky set, Zoro/Robin/Brook set, and Sanji/Nami/Usopp set) with pricing details for each set. But now, Bandai has released the pricing details for each figure. See the individual pricing details below.

Figuarts ZERO - Monkey D. Luffy (Film Z Battle Costume ver)
Price: 2,520 yen

Figuarts ZERO - Tony Tony Chopper (Film Z Battle Costume ver)
Price: 1,890 yen

Figuarts ZERO - Franky (Film Z Battle Costume ver)
Price: 4,725 yen

Figuarts ZERO - Roronoa Zoro (Film Z Battle Costume ver)
Price: 2,835 yen

Figuarts ZERO - Nico Robin (Film Z Battle Costume ver)
Price: 2,835 yen

Figuarts ZERO - Brook (Film Z Battle Costume ver)
Price: 4,200 yen

Figuarts ZERO - Sanji (Film Z Battle Costume ver)
Price: 2,835 yen

Figuarts ZERO - Nami (Film Z Battle Costume ver)
Price: 2,835 yen

Figuarts ZERO - Usopp (Film Z Battle Costume ver)
Price: 3,570 yen

I'm not sure if these will be sold individually, but it is a huge possibility. Maybe on the release date. We'll find out about that later on. This is a good news for those who are not planning to get them all but a few specific figures only. But for now, what is certain is that preorders will be in sets of three.

Update: It turns out that these Figuarts ZEROs are Premium Bandai Web Exclusive, which means that the price will be about twice as the original price outside Japan. I guess I won't be seeing any of these figures in my shelf. I will just have to wait for the POP Film Z versions then :)

Official Photos: MG 1/100 RX-93 Nu Gundam Ver. Ka

The official photos and box art of the MG 1/100 RX-93 Nu Gundam Ver. Ka has been released. As a common feature to all ver. Ka boxes, the design is just a simple white background with a CGI graphic of the model. We've already seen a lot of images of this model and it's a really looking sharp and very detailed version of the Amuro Ray's famous mobile suit as redesigned by Hajime Katoki. The model itself though just an MG, its details are actually very PG-ish. Nice to see that Bandai's technology has gotten very far to be able produce a highly detailed and awesome model kit such as this.

This kit will be available for purchase on 15th of this month (December), 2012 for 7,350 yen. Preorders are available now on most hobby stores. I guess I have to find a way to squeeze my tight budget and get this one even if I still have a lot of un-assembled model kits.

Official Photos: POP Edition-Z - Tony Tony Chopper

The official photos of POP Edition-Z - Tony Tony Chopper has been released as soon as preorders for this figure opens. Chopper looks very cute even if his face looks so kinda serious. His pirate hat can be removed and can be replaced with either Chopper's original pink hat, or a blue bandana with white polka dots that covers his head just like Zoro's.

A very interesting design of Chopper, and even if you are not going for the complete Mugiwaras in Edition-Z, this is still worth getting as his price won't hurt your wallet that much. Especially for Chopper lover's out there.

This figure retails for 3,255 yen and will be released on April 2013. As I mentioned, preorders starts today and it is now available at Amiami, HLJ, and Hobby Search.

Update (2013-04-16): Release date of POP Edition-Z - Tony Tony Chopper has been moved from late-April 2013 to early-May 2013

New Release Photo Review: POP Sailing Again - Tony Tony Chopper (Kung Fu Point ver)

The second form of Chopper under the POP Sailing Again series was just released last Friday, 30th of November 2012. For those who hasn't received his copy yet, and for those who are still undecided of getting this figure, here are some photos taken from a retail release of this figure for you to view (courtesy of blog.livedoor.jp).

POP Edition-Z - Tony Tony Chopper Preorder Announcement

POP Edition-Z - Tony Tony Chopper has been announced as a December preorder. As announced during the Megahobby EXPO Autumn 2012 event last Sunday, it is scheduled to be released on April 2013 for 3,255 yen. Preorders will start next week, Wednesday, 5th of December 2012 at 18:00 (JST). This is the first POP character to be released on Edition-Z. So if you're planning on collecting the Film Z characters designs in POP form like me, better get this one first. Hopefully, MegaHouse will release all the Mugiwaras in Edition-Z.

Megahobby EXPO Autumn 2012 - MegaHouse One Piece

MegaHobby EXPO was held last Sunday, 25th of November 2012. As always, MegaHouse was there bringing their One Piece merchandise for exhibit. But what is brings the most excitement and set the event on fire are the new POPs announced. Yes, MegaHouse has finally heard our voices and bring us a lot of good characters that we have been always requesting to be released.

You have probably seen the photos of these new POP's already flooding the internet. Thanks to a lot of sites that brings us these photos on the day of the event and even more photos after. So here are some high quality photos that I gathered to share with you. Let's see 'em all again and discuss of each one along the way.

Official Photos: Figuarts ZERO - Tony Tony Chopper (7-Eleven Limited)

A 7-Eleven Limited version of  Figuarts ZERO - Tony Tony Chopper is to be released November 27, 2012 for 1,470 yen. I believe this version is called "Hey guys, I bought this something fun ver". What a very long name to call this version.

Anyway, it is based on Tony Tony Chopper (New World ver.) but this time, he is holding a riceball on his right hand and a bag (of riceballs, probably) on his left hand. This is the one that they have exhibited during the Tamashii Nation 2012 event that is among with Chopper's Seven Transformation Stage.

As this is a limited edition specifically for 7-Eleven, this can only be purchased exclusively from Premium BANDAI Web shop. But you can always check on some other stores that may offer this item.

Sanji/Nami/Usopp - Figuarts ZERO Film Z Battle Costume ver

Completing the three sets of Figuarts ZERO One Piece Film Z Battle Costume versions of the Mugiwaras is this Sanji/Nami/Usopp set. This third installment of three set figure will be released on July 2013 for 9,240 yen. following the first two sets, Luffy/Chopper/Franky set (May 2013) and Zoro/Robin/Brook set (June 2013).

All the figures on this third set seems to be packed with details. Sanji has a removable coat as well, same as Zoro. Nami is sexy as ever, even with those armors. And Usopp is looking really funny but with a lot of small details. The problem with these Figuarts ZEROs is that, the more the details are, the more paint issues the final versions will suffer. But let's hope not in these awesome designs. Crossed fingers for that.

To wrap up, here is the summary of the three sets (click the links for the official photos).

Luffy/Chopper/Franky set

• Price: 8,505 yen
• Release Date: May 2013

Zoro/Robin/Brook set

• Price: 9,240 yen
• Release Date: June 2013

Sanji/Nami/Usopp set

• Price: 9,240 yen
• Release Date: July 2013

Preorders starts on mid-December 2012 for all three sets so keep an eye on this site for the announcement of the exact date and time.

Zoro/Robin/Brook - Figuarts ZERO Film Z Battle Costume ver

Following my previous post about these new Figuarts ZERO One Piece Film Z Battle Costume versions of the Mugiwaras, here is the Zoro/Robin/Brook set. This set will be released on June 2013 for 9,240 yen. A month later than Luffy/Chopper/Franky set. Preorders starts on mid-December 2012 for all three sets. Details and official photos for the third set Sanji/Nami/Usopp can be found here.

As the figures from the first set are, the figures on this second set is looking really amazing. Zoro has a removable coat, Robin looks very pretty and sexy and Brook looks funny in this pose and outfit. The details were nice in this photos so hopefully, it won't look bad on the finished product.

Luffy/Chopper/Franky - Figuarts ZERO Film Z Battle Costume ver

The official photos of Figuarts ZERO One Piece Film Z Battle Costume ver has finally been released by Bandai on their Tamashii Nations official website. I've been waiting for this since it's really so hard to look at those blurry photos from the Tamashii Nation 2012 event. As announced earlier, these figures will be sold in sets of three, so that makes three sets for the nine Mugiwaras, and all will be available for preorder on mid-December 2012. This is a big move for Bandai to release Figuarts ZERO's in sets of three. I'm actually interested on how the packaging and box art for these sets. Will the three figures be in individual boxes, or one huge box?

First off is the Luffy/Chopper/Franky set. This set will be released on May 2013 for 8,505 yen. The figures on this set are all looking fantastic and nicely detailed, but hopefully they would all look the same on the final mass produced releases. The other two sets are Zoro/Robin/ Brook set and Sanji/Nami/Usopp set (follow the link for the details and official photos).

For me, though they all very tempting to be preordered, I'll try to hold back a little because I'm more interested on the POP versions. But who knows, I might end up getting all Film Z versions of both the Figuarts ZERO and POP.

POP Sailing Again - Usopp

A fellow POP collector requested that I do a photoshoot of my POP Sailing Again - Usopp. I guess I'll just have to feature this first before the previously released ones. So now I'm presenting one of my recent POP acquisition, the sniper of the Strawhats from Syrup village, Usopp. This is my 15th POP and my 9th from Sailing Again series. And being under the POP Sailing Again class, Usopp is depicted in his appearance after the two year time-skip.

Gunpla EXPO World Tour Japan 2012

22nd of November, Gunpla EXPO World Tour has just went back to it's home in Japan, and as expected there are lot of new announcements from Bandai. New release announcements such as MG 1/100 Sinanju Stein, a variation of the Sinanju to be released of February 2013. MG 1/100 Aile Strike Gundam HD Kai/Remaster, a new update MG version to correspond with those recent MG Gundam SEED releases, scheduled as Spring 2013 Release.

They also got a planned new RG which is RG 1/144 Destiny Gundam. It seems that Bandai is really serious in this product line. A fully colored MG 1/100 Tallgeese which looks fantastic. New Gundam AGE MG Kits. An HG 1/144 Blue Frame Astray Second Revise, also for 2013 release, and so much more.

New Release Photo Review: Figuarts ZERO - Benn Beckman

Following my post about Figuarts ZERO - Shanks (Showdown at the Summit ver.), Figuarts ZERO - Benn Beckman has officially been released as well by Bandai last Saturday, 17th of November 2012. Here are some early shots (courtesy of blog.livedoor.jp) for us to view what the retail release looked like.

Benn Beckman here may not look as great as the Shanks retail release, but this one is also looking good. In comparison with the promotion images, it does not look perfectly the same but it looks close enough (considering that those promo images were post processed). Though you won't see much paint application issues, I didn't like the way the facial hair was done. And also the shape of the jaw is a little too edgy. It isn't very obvious when he is wearing his cape though, so it can be forgiven since I'll always be displaying him with his cape.

Talking about his cape, this one gives life to this figure. I love how the patterns was done and the shading given to it. It would look nice it you have a mirror at the back of your display shelf. The hair does not have much detail, just plainly colored grey, I say the Grandline Men version is better with respect to the detailing of the hair.

Same as my thoughts with Figuarts ZERO - Shanks (Showdown at the Summit ver.), I am pretty satisfied with the outcome of this figure and this one has the right to be a part of anyone's Figuarts ZERO collection, along with Shanks and Yasopp. Just don't compare this figure with the POP version or this one would loose its appeal.

New Release Photo Review: Figuarts ZERO - Shanks (Showdown at the Summit ver.)

Figuarts ZERO - Shanks (Showdown at the Summit ver.) has officially been released by Bandai last Saturday, 17th of November 2012, along with Figuarts ZERO - Benn Beckman. It has reached most retail shops a day earlier though, ensuring that it will be available on the official release date.

So here are the early shots from one of the retail release (courtesy of blog.livedoor.jp) and surprisingly, it does not disappoint as compared to some recent Figuarts ZERO releases. It looks like Bandai finally heard the criticisms of many collectors regarding their releases.

Shanks here looks awesomely nice! It may not look as perfect as the promotional images released earlier but this figure looks really close. The figure molding and paint application was done satisfactorily. I was worried that they might screw up the red-hair, the eyes and the facial hair, but those were done nicely. It may not be perfect but I am truly satisfied with the outcome of this figure judging from the Figuarts ZERO standards. It beats the first version of Figuarts ZERO Shanks.

I'm glad that Bandai did not messed up one of the most iconic character in One Piece in his appearance in Marineford. I hope most of the retail releases, if not better, will look the same as this one. I can't wait to get mine.

At Last, Yui Takamura In A Plugsuit

Finally, Yui Takamura in a plugsuit. There's a lot of Yui Takamura and Muv-Luv Alternative figures out there but almost all of them are half-naked and in sexy pose. While this Kotobukiya's Yui Takamura is still looking sexy, she is wearing a cool plugsuit which is her main costume while piloting a mecha. The plugsuit seems to be very tight as you can almost see the overall shape of her body. She comes with a Katana and a nice diorama styled base. There are also plans for Cryska Barchenowa and Inia Sestina, both in plugsuits following this figure so I believe that these three would look really nice together.

She will be up for preorder on the 20th of November but information for price and release date yet.

Altina Mel Sylphis Is So "Kawaii"

As some of you may have noticed, aside from being a huge One Piece fan, I'm also a sucker for cute female figures. I also happened to be a fan of Tony Taka's illustrations. And for me, this Kotobukiya's 1/8 scaled figure of Altina Mel Sylphis from Shing Blade is so "kawaii". Though I don't have much knowledge about this character, she still catches my attention because of her cute lovely face and and costume design. The simple blue/white color motif fits her perfectly and her smiling face and blown away hair is really cool to look at. This figure is really as sight for sore eyes.

She is slated to be released April 2013 at a retail price of 6,800 yen. Not so expensive for a really adorable figure. Preorders are now available at Amiami, HLJ and Hobby Search. Hope I still have enough budget for her.

KOS-MOS Hits The Beach Once Again

Alter's KOS-MOS Swimsuit ver is getting a re-release. I don't usually fall in-love easily with swimsuit figures but she is absolutely gorgeous. She isn't like any other ordinary swimsuit anime figures since she is kind of non-human. As you can see she is covered with these sort of out of this world thingies that makes up the upper part of the swimsuit. The full shape of her breasts are very much defined in this swimsuit as its is opened on the middle part.

The translucent hair also gotten my attention as well as the facial features. All in all, she is going to be a great addition to my collection (I hope my wallet allows me). Oh, and I forgot to mention that she is scaled as 1/6, approximately 300mm tall, so she is going to be a towering figure next to my mostly 1/8 scaled figures. I shouldn't miss this one as these kind of swimsuit design does not come too often. You should get her too.

This figure is already on its second release which will be on April 2013 for 8,800 yen. Preorders are now available at Amiami, HLJ and Hobby Search.

New Release Photo Review: POP LIMITED - Rob Lucci ver 1.5

POP LIMITED - Rob Lucci ver 1.5 has been released last Wednesday, 7th of November 2012, and here are some of the photos from one of the final retail releases. As expected, MegaHouse didn't disappoint the fans on this release. As we already knew, this is a much improved version of the original Neo-6 (denoted by the title "ver. 1.5") and the figure totally justifies.

Also below, there are some images on how the new ver 1.5 compares to the original Neo-6, so you can much more appreciate the changes and improvements done on this revision. As this figure is limited, only a few stores offered it, but if you happened to be able to make a preorder, it should arrive at your doorstep anytime soon. For those who wasn't able to preorder but still interested on getting one, you can still be able to purchase from some stores albeit a higher than standard price. Well it is still much cheaper than the original Neo though.

As for me, I shall receive my copy from Otacute probably by next week :)

Official Photos: ArtFX+ Batman (The New 52 Edition)

Finally! Kotobukiya heard their fans screaming to release ArtFX+ Batman (The New 52 Edition). I always thought that they were saving him for last, but surprisingly, here he is, gotten past Wonder Woman and Cyborg.

These official images were just revealed from from Kotobukiya's Facebook page, and Batman's design is totally stunning. I can't really express how much excitement I felt the first time I saw these images. The cape looks cool, nice golden utility belt, the chest emblem stands out and the whole body armor is pretty much detailed. The face is just alright though, but Kotobukiya's sculptor Goutaro Takeuchi (aka Atelier Bamboo) put much of effort pleasing Batman fans on this figure. Though I believe there's still a lot of Batman hardcore fans who won't be pleased with this design. In my opinion, this figure really fits in well with the rest of the New 52 editions, which left us waiting for Wonder Woman and Cyborg. This is the best all the New 52 releases so far, worth the long wait and doesn't disappoint. Well it should be, cause it's Batman.

According to Kotobukiya's Facebook page, this will be released on May 2013, but that will be in the US. It must be an April 2013 release in Japan.

Update: Preorders are now open at Amiami

Figuarts ZERO - X Drake and Basil Hawkins Preorder Announcements

Bandai is really in a rush! To empty our wallets, that is. They just announced that Figuarts ZERO - X Drake and Basil Hawkins will be available for preorder this coming Monday, 12th of November 2012 at 16:00 (JST). These two figures has been announced earlier for March 2013 release, but I never thought that preorders will be offered this early.

Somehow I think that Bandai knew what other manufacturers are up to and they are trying to offer preorders as early as possible before new product announcements are made. Yes, I'm looking at you MegaHouse. It's possible that there will be Supernovas and Film Z on POP's line-up which will be shown on the upcoming MegaHobby EXPO 2012 Autumn event, since they already have an upcoming Kidd and Killer, and there will definitely be some Film Z POP editions.

Back to the figures, these two are looking awesome (as most Figuarts ZERO promo images are). Figuarts ZERO - X Drake is wielding his sword pointing upwards with his four-bladed axe on his right hand. The cape is blown away nicely and his boots looks awesomely detailed, I hope they can do the same on the retail releases. Figuarts ZERO - Basil Hawkins on the other hand looks cool with his straw voodoo dolls coming out of his left arm. This left arm can be replaced with an alternate arm without those dolls but holding a card. I would love to preorder these two but I'm worried about the outcome of the final retail product. I'll better wait for the release availability before getting these two. And besides, MegaHouse might announce these two characters on their POP line-up. If that happens, I might end up not getting these Figuarts ZEROs.

As mentioned, to be released on March 2013 with the following prices

Figuarts ZERO - X Drake

Price: 3,675 yen

Figuarts ZERO - Basil Hawkins

Price: 3,360 yen

Update: Preorders are now available at Amiami [ Drake | Hawkins ], and Hobby Search  [ Drake | Hawkins ].

Official Photos: GEM Gundam SEED - Kira Yamato

Joining the previously released G.E.M. Athrun Zala and RAH DX G.A. NEO Lacus Clyne, Kira Yamato's GEM treatment is finally here and ready to be preordered today. We saw him the first time in unpainted prototype stage at Wonder Festival 2012 Summer. Now we can see the fully completed figure in these official photos. He comes with his droid bird Tori, which can be placed either on his shoulder or on his palms. He can be display in pair with either Lacus Clyne or Atrun Zala with hands reaching out for each other.

Based on these images, it seems that he does not come with an alternate non-stretched left arm so there is no way you can display him without looking like he's trying to reach something. Anyway, this is the best figure of Kira Yamato that I have seen so far and as a huge fan of the Gundam SEED series, this one should join my collection.

An April 2013 Release for 7,665 Yen. Preorders for this figure starts today, 8th of November 2012 and it is now available on Amiami, HLJ, Hobby Search and Otacute

Official Photos: POP Neo-EX LIMITED - Marshall D. Teach ver. 1.5

The official photos of POP Neo-EX LIMITED - Marshall D. Teach ver. 1.5 has finally been released. From what I see, there are a lot improvements done as compared to the original DX. The first thing that you will notice are the eyes, it is now round unlike before which is kind of squinting. It seems that the head is a totally new sculpt while while retaining most of the features of the original, much as what they did with Rob Lucci ver 1.5 and Portgas D. Ace ver 1.5. The sailor hat is now larger. There isn't any noticeable changes on the sculpt of the body but it has now better color tone and overall paint application are much more detailed.

This is indeed new a and improved version of Teach and its still worth getting even if you do own the original DX, specially if you are a fan of a nicely detailed figure. A really nice companion to POP Neo-DX - Shiliew which will be available for preorder a few hours from now.

Preorders for POP Neo-EX LIMITED - Marshall D. Teach ver. 1.5 will start tomorrow, 8th of November 2012 and will be released on April 2013. No pricing details yet.

Update: Retails for the price of 8,925 yen (inclusive of tax)

Update: Preorders are now open at Animarket, Amiami, HLJ, Hobby Search and Otacute

POP Neo-DX - Ghost Princess Perhona

It is quite a while since the last time I featured one from my collection. And since the POP Sailing Again - Perhona is about to be released this coming January, I better feature my lovely POP Neo-DX - Ghost Princess Perona (or Perhona as written in the box) first before the newer version arrives.

This is the fifth addition to my POP collection and my second Neo-DX. As all the characters under the Neo-DX class, Perhona's design in this figure is based on her pre time-skip appearance, and as I have mentioned a newer Perhona under the Sailing Again class will be released which is then based on her post time-skip appearance. But that newer version doesn't mean its better than this Neo-DX. Both versions are really pretty awesome and their designs are totally different from each other.

Figuarts ZERO One Piece Film Z Battle Costume ver Preorder Schedule

This is crazy! It seems like Bandai is in a hurry to release all the Figuarts ZERO One Piece Film Z Battle Costume ver. I just got a news and from what I understand is that they will start accepting preorders on not one, not two, but all the nine Mugiwaras on mid-December. And what's crazier is that they will release them in sets of three. How that sounds to you? Is this a good news or bad news? See the set and pricing details below.

Figuarts ZERO Film Z Battle Costume ver - Luffy, Chopper, Franky set
Price: 8,505 yen

Figuarts ZERO Film Z Battle Costume ver - Zoro, Robin, Brook set
Price: 9,240 yen

Figuarts ZERO Film Z Battle Costume ver - Sanji, Nami, Usopp set
Price: 9,240 yen

This is also still not very clear to me, but keep an eye on this site for more detailed info in the future. You can also follow my Facebook page for updates.

Official Photos: POP Neo-DX - Shiliew

Here are the official photos of the most famous member of the Blackbeard Pirates, POP Neo-DX - Shiliew. We already have seen a lot of photos of this figure but in these images, it looks like he will come with alternate right and left arms, to display him differently.

And if you're into collecting Blackbeard Pirates, a newer version of POP Marshall D. Teach will also be coming as well. They would look really nice together. No photos of him yet though.

No price and release date yet but preorder information has been released earlier and can be found here.

Update: Release date is mid February 2013

Update: Retails for the price of 8,925 yen (inclusive of tax)

Update: Preorders are now open at HLJ, Hobby Search, Amiami, Animarket and Otacute at their own discounted prices.

Official Photos: POP Neo-EX LIMITED - Boa Hancock ver. Blue

After much speculations from fans, official images of POP Neo-EX LIMITED - Boa Hancock ver. Blue has been finally released. And much to many collectors dismay (specially to the owners of the original), she is just a alternate/recolor of POP Neo-DX Boa Hancock with an additional winking eye alternate face. I'm not sure if there are some other slight improvements made on the sculpt, but based on these photos, it is basically the same. It's just like what they did with Luffy JF Special, only with lesser new parts. MegaHouse probably would like to get the most out of this famous POP.

For those who have missed the original red color (like me), this was still a good news. This blue colored dress is based from the manga chapter 598, where Boa Hancock is wearing the same dress but in blue (remained red in the anime) during the time when he met with Luffy after the two year time-skip. So this can be regarded as the post time-skip version of Boa Hancock.

So much for wishing a different non-swimsuit Boa Hancock. I hope we can still see a completely new Boa Hancock like the Marine Ford version and with Salome some time in the future.

No price and release date yet but preorder information has been released earlier and can be found here.

Update: Release date is late March 2013

Update: Retails for the price of 7,350 yen (inclusive of tax)

Update: Preorders are now open at HLJ, Hobby Search, Amiami, Animarket and Otacute at their own discounted prices.

Official Photos: Figuarts ZERO - Jewelry Bonney and Killer

Less than two hours left before preorders for Figuarts ZERO - Jewelry Bonney and Killer starts, but before that, take a close look at these official photos of the two figure. These photos might help you decide if you're still arguing with yourself whether to join the preorder battle on the Japanese market or not. These photos looks really nice, but it does not mean that the final retail version would look just as nice. Recent Figuarts ZERO releases are hit or miss specially on the One Piece product line. So let's hope that these two will not suffer a poor quality as some others and stay as much as they look like in the photos.

Jewelry Bonney has an alternate head option with a different expression and an alternate left arm. Her sailor hat is removable and can be used on both heads. For Killer, I noticed that he is a lot taller than Figuarts ZERO - Eustass Kidd as shown in the photo below. Is that accurate? I understand that these Figuarts ZERO are not scaled so no point arguing in this matter, but since you would normally display Killer side by side with his Captain, it might not look appropriate, unless Killer is really this much taller than Kidd.

To be released on February 2013, these figures priced for 2,940 yen each. Preorder details can be found here

Update: Preorders are now open at Amiami [ Bonney | Killer ], Hobby Search [ Bonney | Killer ] and Hobbylink Japan [ Bonney | Killer ].

POP November 2012 Preorder Announcements

The November POP preorders has been lifted and we are getting not one but three exciting POP announcements. First off is POP Neo-DX - Shiliew, this wasn't much of a surprise since this is the only remaining fully completed figure that was shown from Chara Hobby 2012.

The second one, POP Neo-EX LIMITED Boa Hancock ver. Blue was a surprise since none of use knew this one coming. As the name implies, she is a limited edition and only few stores will offer this figure. No available photos of this figure yet so we're not sure if this is only a recolor of the previous DX Boa Hancock or a completely new sculpt. This is the one I'm totally excited for since I missed the previous release.

And the last but not least, POP Neo-EX LIMITED Marshall D. Teach "Bleackbeard" ver. 1.5. This is a limited edition as well and also not photo yet. This is probably a release decision to coincide with the release of DX Shiliew. They should have made this release strategy with Rob Lucci ver. 1.5 by releasing Kalifa as well :) ...(wishful thinking).

Below are the preorder schedules

November 7, 2012 at 18:00 (JST)

• POP Neo-DX - Shiliew
• POP Neo-EX LIMITED Boa Hancock ver. Blue

November 8, 2012 (timing unknown)

• POP Neo-EX LIMITED Marshall D. Teach "Bleackbeard" ver. 1.5

No price and release dates yet for any of these three POPs and as I have mentioned, no available photos for Hancock and Teach yet. For Shiliew, only the photos from Chara Hobby 2012 event are available so just check 'em out below. I will post the official photos of these three figures as soon as it is made available.

As for POP Sailing Again - Franky, no word from it yet but since it is the onely remaining prototype that was shown from the events earlier, we might get to see him fully completed in the upcoming MegaHobby EXPO 2012 Autumn event this coming 25th of November. And if it is indeed fully completed at that time, it is safe to say that it will be the next preorder to be announced.

Tamashii Nation 2012 - Figuarts ZERO

There were so many Bandai collectibles that we're shown at the recent Tamashii Nation 2012 event but my eyes are always on the lookout for Figuarts ZEROs since I have been collecting this product line. Though this product line is made for One Piece, other series are very much welcome. But I'm just disappointed that some figures that were shown earlier were not released yet. I'm talking about Naruto's Akatsukis, Bleach's Gin and One Piece's Soge King, Ryuma, Zeff and Dr. Hiluluk. Are these cancelled products?

This year they shown some other non-One Piece Figuarts ZEROs, but what excites me the most is the Dragonball Z. They also showed some new Tiger & Bunny which earlier releases were web exclusives. There are also some limited edition recolors of Sheryl Nome and Ranka Lee of Macross Frontier, and some new anime series that I don't know about yet. I hope these product line will continue and not just a show-off.

One Piece Figuarts ZEROs are on a separate post. Check 'em out here.

Figuarts ZERO - Jewelry Bonney and Killer Preorders

As announced earlier, Figuarts ZERO - Jewelry Bonney and Figuarts ZERO - Killer will be available for preorder on Thursday, 1st of November 2012 at 16:00 (JST). These two figures will then be released on February 2013, and will be followed by Figuarts ZERO - X Drake and Figuarts ZERO - Basil Hawkins on March 2013. So preorders for the latter two is expected to begin by next month. No official photos of Bonney and Killer yet so just check on these photos from the Tamashii Nation 2012 event.

Tamashii Nation 2012 - One Piece Figuarts ZERO

Tamashii Nation 2012 event has already come to an end yesterday and there were lots of surprises and new figures to look forward to. Unfortunately, some figures were marked "Do not photograph" like these new One Piece Figuarts ZEROs. But apparently, some true One Piece fans uses their pirate instincts and took these shots which made its way to the internet. Event organizers cannot contain the excitement of these avid fans as they break the rules.

I have waited too long till they release the official photos of these, but it seems that they aren't showing these officially to the web anytime soon. So I'll take this opportunity to get these literally "stolen shots" and show them to you.

Being stolen shots, these photos aren't so clear and some are totally blurry, so please forgive me. But at least you can have a good idea on how these figures look like and quench your anxiety. But once the official photos of these figures were made available, I'll make sure to post those here on this site. So for now, let's take a look of the photos, shall we...

Tamashii Nation 2012 Preview

It's almost time for the Tamashii Nation 2012 event. But yesterday, the preview has been showed to the public and there are already lots of figures to be excited for so I'll give you some early photos. There will be more photos to come as the main event opens. Be sure to check back this site for more.

Tamashii Nation 2012 - New One Piece Figuarts ZERO Line-up

Four days to go until the Tamashii Nation 2012 event. All fans, including me, are excited to see what new products there is to see during the event. And to tease us, they announced some new One Piece Figuarts ZEROs that they will be showing on the event.

As I posted earlier, it seems that there will be a wave of Supernovas. Then from these line-up, a series of Baroque works characters. And what surprises me are the two character/character-design that aren't shown the anime yet, Trafalgar Law (Shichibukai ver.) and Caesar Crown. Spoilers for those who are not following the manga. There is also a flashback character, Makino with Luffy.

Designs from Film Z were already expected to be coming to all the Mugiwaras, but Chopper's Seven Transformation Stage series is also something new to look forward to. I was actually thinking of slowing down a little in collecting Figuarts ZEROs, but these character announcements gets me excited again.

Just a Quick Visit at La Tendo Shop, Singapore - 30th of September 2012

About two weeks ago, 30th of September to be exact, I had a chance to drop by at the Funan, Digital Life Mall and had visit La Tendo Shop. I also took this opportunity to take some photos of the items they have in their showcases.

La Tendo shop is one of my favorite hobby shop in Singapore. They have a wide variety of products in their store and best of all, they had a lot of showcases of figures on display. They also have an online shop but it isn't as automated as other huge online shops, you have to contact them through e-mail if you want to know about a product status, whether it is available or how much it cost. Well at least you can have a good listings of what products they can offer to you.

D.P.C.F. Uzumaki Naruto is Now Ready to Summon and be Summoned

Just about a month ago, Plex released the early stage prototype photos of this D.P.C.F. Naruto. I am surprised that they are now presenting us these completed prototype images, release information and pricing.  A mid-December release for 7,980 yen (tax-included). The paint application is absolutely nice, it actually accentuates all the fine details of the sculpt. You can now appreciate and see how much details were given on this figure. It seems that the pole that was used to elevate him was made of metal and doesn't look like a part of the figure anymore. I just hope it can be covered with some cloud/smoke-like effect just like in the concept art. 

I also love the how the scroll encircles around him but I'm a little worried that it might sag down after sometime if there would be nothing to support it. And another thing that bothers me is the hair, it seems to be lacking in detail. But anyway, this is still one of the best pre time-skip Naruto figure that I have ever seen. I can't wait to see the other members of Team 7, if they would be translated into figure that is. My only problem is that, this is another December release and my budget for figure collecting is already fully exhausted for that month. I hope I can still get him sometime later after its release.

No preorder details yet but I will update you as soon as this information is available.

Update: Preorders are now open at Amiami, HLJ, Hobby Search and Nippon-Yasan

GSC - Leonmitchelli Galette des Rois

Leonmitchelli Galette des Rois is another one of those very awesome looking 1/8 scaled figures from Good Smile Company. Believe me, I know nothing about this character yet, nor the anime Dog Days. All I know is that it is on my "going to watch" list and it's currently on its second season. But what actually makes this figure interesting for me is that it got a lot of amazing details, the pose and facial expression looks simply fantastic, and the armor on the arms and legs has a realistic metallic finish. Even if you're not a fan of the character and the anime, your attention will easily be drawn to it, if it is a part of someone's collection. And that what makes me want to have it.

There's a lot of GSC character figures that I know nothing about, but seeing some of them for the first time, makes me wanna search information about that character and watch the anime (or play the game if it is). In this case, Dog Days will probably be on my next to watch list. But whether I would love the anime or not, I will surely be getting this figure.

To be released on April 2013 with a price tag of 10,800 yen (tax included), pricey isn't it? But Amiami, Hobby Search and HLJ are now accepting preorders at a very good deal.

Update (2013-04-22): Release date has been moved to May 2013.

Update (2013-05-23): Release date has been moved to July 2013.