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 FIGURE SPECS東宝30㎝シリーズ 酒井ゆうじ造形コレクション ゴジラ(2002) 嵐の中の攻防 JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: MAY 2019 SERIES: TOHO 30CM SERIES YUJI SAKAI MODELING COLLECTION MATERIAL: VINYL FROM: “GODZILLA X MECHAGODZILLA” (2002) HEIGHT (HEAD): 11.25 INCHES / 28.5 CM HEIGHT (TAIL): 13.375 INCHES / 33.9 CM WIDTH: (FOOTSPAN) 8.75 INCHES / 22.2 CM LENGTH: (DIAGONALLY FROM LEFT FOOT TO TAIL) 13 INCHES / 33 CM FIGURE WEIGHT: 1LB, 5 OZ / 595 G REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI The Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla (2002) “Attack in the Storm” vinyl figure was announced early in 2019 and was released late April / Early May 2019. It was an international release and came in both Standard and Ric Exclusive versions. The latter of which came with a light gimmick that illuminated the dorsal spines. That Standard Version went for $220 at Hobby Search and $238 from the North American Shonen-Ric as X-Plus website. The Ric Exclusive commanded a price of ¥27,000 (about $250 USD). It stands 11.25 inches tall from the top of the head down to the shelf. The upraised tail needs 13.375 inches of clearance. It’s length from head to tail can’t be calculated easily, but going by its footprint, and how much space it needs on the shelf, it’s about 15 inches from the left foot to the tip of the right leaning tail. Being a vinyl, it’s lightweight and comes in at just over a pound. Yet, has a pleasant “heft” to it when handled. For a hollow vinyl, it feels somewhat solid and sturdy.  The sculpt is based on Godzilla’s appearance in the 2002 film Godzilla Against Mechagodzilla or, as it’s more properly known as in Japan, Godzilla x Mechagodzilla. Master sculptor, Yuji Sakai, usually models his Godzilla sculpts after precise moments in a film. And in this case, I’m led to believe it’s Maser cannon attack scene in the rain which opens the film. Hence the phrase “Battle in the Storm” or “Attack and Defense in the Storm” added to the name of this release. Although, after rewatching the beginning of the movie, I could not find this exact pose. THE BOX
The box is quite large for a Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection figure. It’s 16 inches tall by 16 inches wide and has a depth of 9 inches. Inside, the figure is wire-tied to a concave, form-fitting plastic shell which, I’m pleased to report, is actually deep enough to keep the figure’s toes a good distance away from the inside of the lid. (This is often a problem in previous releases and results in figures arriving with scraped toes — booties or no booties.) The figure’s tail comes as a separate piece which you will need to attach by softening the butt with a hair dryer (do NOT soften the tail). When you can easily squeeze the butt hole (:P), you can then insert the tail with a twist. The tail is sculpted above the “ground” and so will need the included tail base to support it while it stands. SCULPT The 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Godzilla 2002 is without a doubt one of the very best releases from X-Plus this year. Definitely on of the first home runs of 2019. This figure is RIDICULOUSLY AWESOME. And I have to say it yet again: it literally looks like it walked right out of the movie. It’s like they just shrank the suit down to fit on the shelf. I’m literally at a loss for words. I mean, just look at it.  The head sculpt has a great likeness from all angles. And he looks pissed as hell. Especially from the front. POSEYuji Sakai not only captured the appearance of this suit in this sculpt, but also the spirit of its movement. The position of the arms definitely have a Tom Kitagawa feel to them. And even though this figure is simply standing, there feels like there is a lot going on. Sometimes it almost seems like the figure is moving.
Next of note is the position of the tail. It curves to the figure’s right and then swoops straight up. The tip of the tail has a contrasting curve which makes it feel like it’s just been lifted. Very dynamic. JOINTS & SEAMSAdding to the excellence of this release is the fact that it appears virtually seamless. Sure, if you look for seams, you’ll find some. There’s one above the left bicep, one in front of the right elbow and one below each of the knees. But they’re practically invisible. Even the tail connection has a perfect and snug fit. PAINT JOBLike all X-Plus Yuji Sakai Godzilla vinyls, this figure has a base coat of a deep, rich black which is noticeably darker than the off black or asphalt black of most non-Sakai X-Plus figures. This gives the figure more “contrast” when looking at it in any situation. (It also makes it hard to photograph.) Now what we usually like to see next is some level of highlights with some kind of dry brushing with a slightly lighter black. This gives the figure more depth, more visual interest and — I don’t know, it somehow makes it seem more real, or more worth the price tag. Alas, as was said, this figure has none. However, if you think about it, a lack of highlights is actually what is needed here for the figure to fulfill its role as a representative of Godzilla’s appearance during the movie’s opening Maser battle. This scene was shot in the rain, at night. There wasn’t enough light to allow any earthy scoffs on the skin show on camera.  Even the dorsal spines give little contrast with very subdued color not very far off in range as compared to the black skin. What color is there is slanted toward the cool, blue end of the color spectrum to reproduce it’s nightly appearance. By the way, I fracking LOVE the subdued color. It looks far more realistic than the often over-cranked ashy whites on other X-Plus Godzilla figures.  The paint (or decals) on the eyes do a fair enough job of capturing this suit’s unique eye design. Thankfully, the teeth are not a toyish, stark white. Instead they are a very dirty bone color. They do seem to be a little messy with the red from the gums though. In this super close-up (above) you see very clearly how the red intrudes over the tops of the teeth. Now you can’t really see this much detail with the naked eye, but with the gums just visible, the teeth have somewhat of a bloody color, almost as if he just tore into some prey. And that’s something we never see Godzilla do. So I do wish the reds would have been toned down a bit here.  Fantastic attention to detail on the claws – especially on the feet. The saturated dirty bone color – almost looks like a mustard color – are brushed onto only the higher elevations of each “toe”. The deep grooves in the sculpt which form the nearer you get to the body evade the claw paint and create dark ridges. Looks better than most X-Plus toes. It has a wildly movie-accurate sculpt and captures the personality of this Godzilla all the way. SIZEThe Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2002, like all of the Sakai entries, are a tad shorter than their full-blooded 30cm Series brothers. The top of the head is 11.5 inches high and the figure’s overenthusiastic tail climbs up to over 13 and a quarter inches. FOOTPRINT / ON THE SHELFYou’ll need 8.75 inches of shelf space to fit the footspan of this vinyl. From the outer edge of the left foot to the space below the tip of the tail is 13 inches. Again, the high-rise tail may be of some concern to collectors with low shelves. You’ll need about 13 and a half inches of vertical space. Overall, though, I’d say this figure takes ‘the usual’ amount of space which a 30cm Series entry would demand. You may be limited with your front viewing angle though since this tail may get in the way of his nearest neighbor. RIC EXCLUSIVE VERSION The Ric Exclusive version of this vinyl came with a light gimmick. By connecting a small battery box to the back of the leg, you can make Godzilla’s fins glow white. As usual, I tend to prefer the Standard Versions as the color and quality of the dorsal spines always seem to be better. The only photo I have to demonstrate the light-up is the official X-Plus production photo. But note that this pic recreates the light with Photoshop and therefore is not visually accurate. And all other reviews I’ve seen on this figure show only the Standard Version. SIZE COMPARISONS Here is a size comparison with other figures from the 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection (L to R): Godzilla 1954, Godzilla 1989 Osaka Landing Version, Godzilla 1991 Hokkaido Landing Version and the new Godzilla 2002 on the far right.  And more Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection figures (L to R): Godzilla 1992 Tanzawa Advance Version, Godzilla 2001, Godzilla 2002 and (Shin) Godzilla 2016 Fourth Form.  The 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection figures come up a little short (only up to 27.5cm). The newer 30cm Series Favorite Sculptors Line also comes up short the same exact way. Figures from both series don’t quite reach the same height as other figures in the 30cm Series. So, it only seems natural to display the Sakai’s and the FSL’s on their own shelf. Pictured here (L to R): Favorite Sculptors line Godzilla 1962, Godzilla 1964, Godzilla 1999 Ver. 2, Godzilla 2001 and up front, Varan. Note: the Godzilla 1999 Ver. 2 is technically not a part of the Favorite Sculptors Line. But it may as well be. It suffers from falling short of other 30cm Series figures the same way that FSL figures do. It just came out before that series name was created. Also note that the FSL Godzilla 2001 is actually a part of the Large Monster Series. I have no idea why.  You may be tempted to display your new Yuji Sakai Godzilla 2002 with your 30cm Series Kiryu 2002. After all they come from the same movie. And, while they are both technically in the same (30cm Series), the figure comes up a little short. You could try placing your Godzilla 2002 nearer the front of the shelf and your Kiryu figure further back nearer the wall to at least make them appear to size up.  We have the same issue for you Millennium collectors. The new Yuji Sakai Godzilla 2002 is a tad lower in height than the previously released 30cm Series Godzilla 2003. But since one is looking down and the other looking up, the difference in size isn’t so apparent. SUMMARY The 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2002 “Battle in the Storm” vinyl figure by X-Plus is a home run. And it’s one of the best releases in 2019. It has a wildly movie-accurate sculpt and captures the personality of this Godzilla all the way. If you grabbed this one on preorder, then good for you! If not, it will be a little hard to get on the aftermarket, but it will be well worth it. MORE INFORMATION
X-TRAS    By John Stanowski Originally posted August 18th, 2019 on Kaiju Addicts.
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 STAR ACE KONG: SKULL ISLAND FIGHTING VERSION ON DISPLAY AT G-FEST IN CHICAGO. PHOTO: SAM TORRES. A New Kong: Skull Island Vinyl with more Dynamic Sculpt is on the wayStar Ace and X-Plus have been working on a Kong V2 for almost a year now and it’s finally been made public. The unpainted prototype of the Star Ace Kong: Skull Island “Fighting Version” was first revealed at the Shanghai CCG Expo 2019 last week. X-Plus ‘showrunner’, Gee Okamoto, flew to Chicago and today revealed the painted prototype at the Summit Kaiju panel at G-Fest. This new fighting version features Kong in a more dynamic pose with his arms outstretched and a gaping mouth in full roar revealing exquisite detail on the teeth and fangs. Also new is Kong’s stance. While the original’s feet stood side by side, the new version has one leg further back from the other. Here’s hoping this thing is well balanced.
SIZE The figure will be the same size as the original Star Ace Kong: Skull Island vinyl which was released last summer. And it will display perfectly alongside your X-Plus 30cm Series figures.  PHOTO: X-PLUS Star Ace, a subsidiary of X-Plus, will again be the one to put the figure out. But know that this is totally produced by Gee Okamoto and X-Plus. HOW MUCH? WHERE CAN I GET IT? It’s still very early to discuss this, but it’s probably safe to say that the price will be at least comparable to the Kong V1 release. Please realize, though, that the figure’s outstretched hands means that it will come in a larger box which could very well affect the cost. Star Ace is still currently providing their releases to Diamond Comic Distributors for the North American market. If nothing changes by the time this fighting-pose Kong gets released, then you will be able to get one from your local comic shop as well as through the usual online shops. None of this confirmed yet so please stay tuned. Now that X-Plus has their own U.S. based web store it would be nice if collectors could order directly from there. I’ll work hard to get the facts as soon as I can. No word yet on the possibility of a deluxe version. WHEN? Nothing is confirmed yet, but Star Ace and X-Plus hope to get the figure out by the end of the year. BEHIND-THE-SCENES Here are a few photos from X-Plus of the unpainted prototype. The light clay color makes it easier to see some of the detail which the painted version is hiding.
 PHOTO: X-PLUS  A WORD ON THE ORIGINAL If you’re new around here and missed the news, here is some information on the original release. The first Star Ace Kong: Skull Island vinyl figure was released last summer and features a badass pose taken straight from the Apocalypse Now-esque shot from Kong: Skull Island where he first faces off a swarm of army choppers. A Deluxe Version came with a closed left hand which held onto a downed chopper from another scene. It also included a base with Skull Island motif. The original has long SOLD OUT at Star Ace. But some stock still remains at scattered online stores and shops. If you prefer the original ‘pissed off’ Kong, or if you are an X-Plus / Legendary completist, you should grab one while you can. RELATED By John Stanowski Originally posted July 13th, 2019 on Kaiju Addicts.
 FIGURE SPECS「キングコング：髑髏島の巨神」 コング ソフビ スタチュー スタンダード版 JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: OCTOBER 2018 NORTH AMERICA ORIGINAL RELEASE: NOVEMBER 2018 BRAND: RELEASED BY STAR ACE, BUT PRODUCED BY X-PLUS SERIES: NO SERIES AFFILIATION BUT IS COMPARABLE TO TOHO 30CM SERIES MATERIAL: VINYL FROM: “KONG: SKULL ISLAND” (2017) HEIGHT (OFF BASE): ABOUT 12 INCHES / 30.4 CM WIDTH (HAND TO HAND): ABOUT 7.75 INCHES / 19.6 CM FIGURE WEIGHT: 15 OZ / 425 G REVIEW AND PHOTOS, UNLESS OTHERWISE NOTED: © JOHN STANOWSKI KONG: SKULL ISLAND AND ALL RELATED CHARACTERS AND ELEMENTS © WARNER BROS. ENTERTAINMENT, INC. This is the long-awaited Kong Skull Island Vinyl Figure by Star Ace, a subsidiary of X-Plus. The sculpt was produced by X-Plus. It stands at 12 inches tall, weighs in at just under a pound and is a mostly movie-accurate representation of the giant ape from Kong: Skull Island (2017). It was released in Japan in October 2018 and it will reach stores in the United States in mid November 2018. It is X-Plus’ fifth vinyl based on a Legendary Pictures movie monster and the third vinyl based on a titan from the Monsterverse. (See the Size Comparison section for photos of the others.) There are two versions of this release. The EX (or “regular/standard”) features Kong with an open left hand and no accessories. The DX (or deluxe version) features the same sculpt with the exception of the left hand being closed to wrap around a helicopter as well as an island base for it to stand on. This review features the Standard Version. THE BOX
The Star Ace Kong comes in a blind, brown box. Unlike X-Plus boxes, this one opens with a flip lid on the top and has its color cover art printed directly on the front. With a keen eye, though, you will notice elements common to X-Plus box covers such as the thin, grunge border and the offset halo effect on the image of the figure. Note that the walls of this box are extremely thin. It could be easily crumbled. Please store it safely, assuming you get one dent and wrinkle free. Despite the thin box, your figure is very securely protected on the inside. It’s packaged more like a 1/6 scale figure than an X-Plus vinyl. Kong is seated in a plastic shell which comes with a plastic lid which also wraps around all four sides thus increasing its strength. Also, unlike an X-Plus, Kong is not wire-tied to the plastic since the lid keeps him securely in place. Kong’s pose, though simple, breaks the glass on the Badass Scale. SCULPT The Star Ace Kong Skull Island Vinyl Figure sports an awesome, mostly movie-accurate sculpt of the giant ape from the movie. Three things that stand out the most to me are its apparently expertly captured proportions and gait, expressive, familiar face and intricately detailed fur which looks far better in person than I was expecting. HEAD SCULPT I’ve compared the head sculpt to several photos from the film and, yes, I did find minor details with my admittedly untrained eye which could have been tweaked. I also find the face a little more “grown-up” than the one I saw in some scenes of the movie. But in the sculptor’s defense, Kong’s face seemed to fluctuate between adolescent and adult in the movie. This sculpt seems based on the latter. It seems super expressive from almost every angle projecting anger, confidence, curiosity, thoughtfulness and power.  FEET What can I say? They’re feet. I have no comment, but thought you might like to see them. POSEKong stands in a seemingly idle museum pose taken straight from the movie. And yet, the level of expression in this sculpt seems so dynamic at the same time. Kong’s pose, though simple, breaks the glass on the Badass Scale.
Kong’s gait from the movie is EXPERTLY captured in this pose. This is a work of vinyl art. BALANCE Despite giving a little wobble when first placed down, this vinyl quickly stabilizes and stands firm. It does not appear to be easily unbalanced with heavy-footed traffic passing by the collection or even a sudden jolt to the shelves. Kong stands steady and proud. JOINTS & SEAMSThe only lines of note on this figure are the joints at the ankles which definitely leave a gap in the sculpt. But because they are so low, they’re not overly obvious. And they are completely invisible when looking at the figure from a higher angle. There are traces of seams above both biceps and around the base of the trapezius muscles and base of the neck. These are covered over with paint in such a way as to make them hardly noticeable. PAINT JOB For something as uncomplicated as a giant, furry ape, Star Ace / X-Plus did a fantastic job bringing life to Kong’s fur. While it’s hard to see in this photo, Kong’s coat has just the right amount of darks and highlights over it main medium brown paint scheme. Even harder to see, even with your own eyes, are scattered accents that almost appear greenish brown. I’m not sure if these are meant as hairy highlights or if they are meant to represent the jungle debris that matted in his fur (as was purposely added by the CGI crew at Lucasfilm). Either way, they add a subtle top layer of detail in Kong’s paint apps.
BRIGHT FACE Kong’s face, hands, feet and chest are treated with an off black with a very definite blueish tinge. I’ve seen this tinge on actual apes before, but didn’t really notice it in the movie. Either way, this shade seems far too bright to be movie-accurate. Despite this, I am mostly reluctant to complain about most of these areas since it seems these areas wouldn’t stand out as much had they been darker. The face is made even lighter with generous amounts of highlights made with an even lighter shade. I’m of the opinion that his face is far too light because of this and was immediately very disappointed with it when I first opened the box. I’ve since gotten used to it. The amazing sculpt, pose and perceived attitude just washed the negativity away. Mostly… BRIGHT BUTT There is one area that has me totally perplexed. And, that would be Kong’s butt. The same shades used on his face, chest, hands and feet were actually applied, over the fur, on Kong’s ass. ????? Hate to say it, but this is a glaring error. Kong’s butt is brown just like his arms and legs. But Star Ace has him looking like he just sat on a kaiju-sized bench with wet paint. What they hell were they thinking? Thankfully this error faces the wall on the shelf.  PIERCING EYES Let’s get back to some sorely needed good news. Kong’s fiery, orange eyes look fantastic! They’ve no doubt used decals here since each one is a mere 3/16 of an inch wide. They are coated with a shiny gloss to bring even more life to them.  CHEST Kong’s chest is painted with the same light, off black as his other bare skin areas and it feathers into the brown fur very, very well. Excellent work. His trademark skullcrawler scars seem to be in the right proportion but, I feel, are given too much focus with the starkly light lines of paint. The scars are noticeably brighter than was seen on the prototype we were teased with for over a year (below).   In the above photo you can see Kong: Skull Island director, Jordan Vogt-Roberts, at X-Plus headquarters in Osaka holding the prototype. Note the much more reserved coloring on the scars. I can’t help but wonder if he is the reason for the brighter colors on the end product. Last year, Vogt-Roberts replied to a tweet made by Kyle Yount (Kaijucast) which showed the figure. His response: “This is awesome. But please make his chest scars more pronounced via discoloration…” It looks like X-Plus kowtowed to Jordan’s advice. But, despite being a little toyish, I’ve grown to like it. I knew Kong had scars but never really appreciated how cool they were until I got this vinyl.  FOOTPRINT / ON THE SHELFAt 12 inches tall, the Star Ace Kong takes up only 7.75 inches at his widest and hardly any room at all in depth. This vinyl may be off the charts with its badassery but it’s extremely modest when it comes to taking up space on the shelf. His footprint will barely leave a mark even in the most crowded collections. SIZE COMPARISONSNow, let’s take a look at the Star Ace Kong with a myriad of X-Plus vinyls and other figures you may have in your collection.  At the time of this writing, the most likely companion for your new Star Ace Kong Skull Island Vinyl Statue is the 30cm Series Godzilla 2014 (review) by X-Plus. They look FANTASTIC paired together on the shelf. The standard version of Godzilla seems to closely match the demeanor of Kong making for a good visual match in your display.  The X-Plus Godzilla 2014 stands at 12.75 inches (32.3 cm) against Kong’s 12 inches (30.5 cm). It seems only fitting that Kong should be shorter seeing as how this version of the giant ape is actually much, much smaller than this Godzilla. But note that even at this slight disadvantage, Kong’s arms already dwarfs Godzilla’s.  The fierce 30cm Series Godzilla 2014 Roar Version (review) is slightly taller at 13 inches (33 cm). Kong still pairs with it nicely. Although, Kong seems pretty unimpressed by Godzilla’s roaring head.  Kong is slightly taller than your NECA Godzilla 2014 24-Inch Head-to-Tail figure. Even so, it’s still comparable in size and presence and they will look good together on the shelf.  The Star Ace Kong stands here with X-Plus’ two entries from Legendary’s Pacific Rim (2013). The Large Monster Series Leatherback and the Large Monster Series Knifehead. You are probably accustomed to Large Monster Series vinyls being only 25cm tall, as am I. But these two behemoths really do have the size and mass of 30cm Series figures. And so, they look GREAT next to Kong.  And here is Kong with two figures from the Toho 30cm Series: Godzilla 1964 (review) and Godzilla 1968. Kong is actually standard 30cm Series height and so will fit in nicely with any figures you may have from that series. DELUXE VERSIONThe DX version of the Star Ace Kong Skull Island Vinyl Statue comes with two awesome extras and one modification of the sculpt.  A round base with Skull Island motif will raise your Kong vinyl to new heights. This vinyl deserves to be put up on a pedestal. And, now you’ve got one! Also included is a separate, mangled helicopter which can be inserted into Kong’s re-sculpted left hand. X-Plus had earlier indicated that this chopper would be permanently affixed to Kong’s hand, but we know know that isn’t the case. Kong’s hand looks just fine on its own if you elect to not use the extra piece.  PHOTO: © 2017 WARNER BROS.ENTERTAINMENT INC., LEGENDARY PICTURES PRODUCTIONS, LLC AND TENCENT PICTURES. The Deluxe Version is a virtual snapshot right out of the movie! You can see a lot of promotional photos of both versions, including close-ups of the base and helicopter. SUMMARYDespite a couple of annoying painting issues, the Star Ace Kong Skull Island Vinyl Figure is one helluva collectible! With minimum seams, intricate textures and a sculpt and pose that feels so alive, this Kong is truly an exciting addition to any X-Plus collection. I hope it’s successful run secures places for future Monsterverse vinyls from Star Ace and X-Plus. MORE INFORMATION
X-TRAS    By John Stanowski Originally posted October 19th, 2018 on Kaiju Addicts.
 FIGURE SPECS東宝30㎝シリーズ 酒井ゆうじ造形コレクション ゴジラ(2016) JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: OCTOBER 2018 SERIES: 30CM SERIES YUJI SAKAI MODELING COLLECTION MATERIAL: VINYL FROM: “SHIN GODZILLA” (2016) HEIGHT (HEAD): ABOUT 11.5 INCHES / 29.21 CM HEIGHT (TAIL): ABOUT 16 INCHES / 40.6 CM LENGTH: (WITH RAISED TAIL) ABOUT 17.25 INCHES / 43.8 CM FIGURE WEIGHT: 1 LB, 9 OZ / 708.7 G REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI The Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla (2016) vinyl statue by X-Plus has an amazing, movie-accurate sculpt based on the monster from Shin Godzilla (2016). It is 11.5 inches tall (from the head) and has a massive tail which reaches 17.25 inches up into the air. Released in October 2018, it was available in both Standard and Ric Exclusive versions. The sculpt was first revealed by Yuji Sakai at Winter Wonder Festival 2017 in Chiba, Japan. A limited run resin kit soon followed. Finally, Mr. Sakai teamed up with X-Plus to produce his latest creation in vinyl. X-Plus sold a Ric Boy exclusive version molded in red, translucent vinyl. A standard version made from opaque red vinyl was available in retail stores. NOTE: This review will feature the Ric Exclusive version although the Standard Version will make appearances below for comparison. THE BOX
Because of the figure’s massive tail, it comes in a massive box measuring 19 inches high, 15.25 inches wide and 8.5 inches deep. This box is the usual 30cm Series design. Plain, brown, blind box with flip lid and full color artwork on the front. Inside the figure is wire-tied in two pieces in a plastic shell. One arm and one foot come wrapped in plastic. It’s important to be very careful when removing this plastic from the arm as this piece is very thin. Try to find the edge of the tape holding it on instead of just tugging on it. PUTTING IT TOGETHERNew and First-time X-Plus Collectors: if this is your first X-Plus, watch Rich Eso‘s video on how to attach tails. For the rest of us: the tail flange isn’t round this time and has several angles to it. It’s almost shaped like a diamond. While this makes it more difficult to attach the tail, it does make for a more snug fit. And considering how anxious gravity is to get closer with the tail, the connection won’t be as prone to pulling away and open as on the Large Monster Series versions.  The figure comes with a tail base which is required to make the figure stand straighter. Although the base isn’t really needed at all if you don’t mind the figure leaning back slightly. If you are displaying this figure from the front, you probably wouldn’t even notice this backward lean.  I’ve already heard from some collectors that they don’t believe that this base is high enough and wish it were taller. I’m inclined to agree. It seems the figure would look a little better if its head were pushed forward just a little more. But it doesn’t look bad the way that it is now. Also, this does seem to be the height intended by Mr. Sakai from the very beginning based on this early shot of the sculpt in progress. (Honestly, though, I have no idea why the bottom of the tail isn’t just resting on the floor. Realistically, something that big probably isn’t easily lifted off the ground.) This Godzilla design has a wide range of new textures, ridges, Giger-esque strands and bony details which are all expertly captured on this vinyl. SCULPTAnd, here it is…  The Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2016 is a ridiculously movie-accurate collectible and is no doubt the most picture perfect among the three Shin Godzilla Fourth Form figures put out by X-Plus so far. It follows the Toho Large Monster Series Godzilla 2016 (click here for review) and the Gigantic Series Shin Godzilla. I’m gonna say it! …it literally looks like it walked right out of the movie. Don’t believe me? Look here. This Godzilla design has a wide range of new textures, ridges, Giger-esque strands and bony details which are all expertly captured on this vinyl. Because of all of these intersecting patterns and textures, Yuji Sakai’s signature “sculptorly” quality seems to be absent, or at the very least, hard to see. To me, that’s a good thing. HEAD SCULPT I haven’t compared it to the movie yet, but the head sculpt looks spot on from every angle. This head sculpt makes X-Plus’ two great previous attempts pale in comparison. I don’t know how to say it. This just looks right! A couple of oddities I’ve noticed though: the eyes don’t quite line up with each other; one being lower than the other. I thought I was just struck with dumb luck again until I noticed that the same is true for my standard version as well. What are the odds that I got two duds? I’m guessing that this must have been intentional for some reason. Also, the bottom jaw piece seems to be a sort of hit or miss and was easily misaligned in the factory. The jaw on my Ric is slightly crooked while the jaw on the Standard is just fine. I’m not much bothered by it since I can’t really notice it except in close-up photos. POSEThe 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Shin Godzilla stands in the monster’s signature pose. This is how he looked in over 90% of his appearances as the fourth form kaiju. While this may not be as exciting as the dynamic pose on the Gigantic Series version, I find this one preferable since this is shaped the same as the standard image of Shin Godzilla burned into all of our brains.
The tail runs back and then swings full up into the air, making only two slight curves on both its X and Y axes. The movement captured in the pose of the tail is visible in only half of the angles. From certain other angles, it appears to be going up into the air in a straight line which doesn’t look as exciting. When displaying your Sakai Shin, try to angle it so that you can see some curves from the front of your shelves. An added bonus to this pose is that, from the front, you can see the tail hovering in the background behind the head just as was seen so many times in the movie. JOINTS & SEAMS STANDARD VERSION (LEFT) WITH THE RIC EXCLUSIVE VERSION (RIGHT). The Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection (Shin) Godzilla 2016 is made up of “at least” ten parts. And, unfortunately, some of their panty lines are showing. In the photo above, we have the Standard Version on the left and the Ric Exclusive version on the right. (Please excuse the fact that the tail hasn’t been attached to the Standard. I’m selling this figure to a friend and I don’t want to violate it any more than I have to before he gets it.) On the Standard version, you can clearly see where some of those pieces meet. Specifically at the tops of the arms and at the top of the legs. Now this isn’t anything new and, as X-Plus collectors, we’re completely used to this. These are, after all, vinyls. BADASS vinyls, but vinyls nonetheless. Joints like this are common. Curiously, these same lines aren’t as visible on the Ric Boy exclusive version. This is possibly due to them blending in more because of the translucent vinyl. So, despite what you see in the photo above, the seams are still there, just not as obvious. PAINT JOBThis is where I will describe the differences between the Ric Exclusive Version and the Standard version since they involve the figure’s colors and appearance. Instead of molding this figure in black and filling in “the cracks” with red (to replicate Shin Godzilla’s fission glows from the movie), X-Plus has repeated what they did instead with the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla. Both versions are molded in red. Black paint is then applied on most of the body, careful not to cover over the red in the deep recesses of the skin texture and on the base of the fins. I thought this was ingenious when I saw it applied to the 25cm version. And it’s (mostly) just as impressive this time around as well. The one problem with both, is that I feel they weren’t as liberal with the black paint as they should have been. This has resulted in more red being allowed to show through than was seen in the movie. The technique was used much more effectively on the Large Monster Series version. I can’t help but think that Mr. Sakai, who has a lot to say about how this vinyl was produced, prefers it the way that it was done this time around. I don’t feel this is overly detrimental to this release. I will admit that I’m overly forgiving because I’m just so glad to have this ultimate (to me) Shin Godzilla figure on my shelf. However, not all figures come out of the factory paint stations the same way. Results may vary. Making sure that all figures get covered in black the same way and leave the same amount of red behind to shine through isn’t likely as these are done by hand. You may find that your figure has a bit more (or less!) red showing through on the chest or on a leg than you’ve seen in this review or in other photos. One thing that concerns me is that with this painting technique, mismatches can occur more frequently between the body and the tail. Luckily, my Ric looks just fine.  STANDARD VERSION (LEFT), RIC EXCLUSIVE VERSION (RIGHT). NOTE THAT TAIL IS NOT ATTACHED ON THE STANDARD. So, what’s the difference? From a distance, there is no none. Even when you step closer, both appear pretty much comparable. But the difference starts to show when the figure is right in front of you. The Standard Version is molded in solid, opaque red vinyl. You can’t see through it. The light hits the surface of the vinyl and reflects back into your eye. These reds are brighter and, well, redder. There also seems to be more “contrast” and hard edges where red meets black. Technically speaking, the Standard kind of seems to be the more accurate between the two. And, the bright red kind of implies that it’s glowing. But for that to work, it really depends on how you look at it. You have to sort of imagine it that way. The Ric Exclusive version is made of translucent, almost clear, vinyl. It’s tinted red but is clear enough for light to hit the surface of the vinyl, pass through it, and bounce back off of an interior coating of reflective silver paint. The reds seem deeper on the Ric. And many light effects are possible when you light the figure different ways, or simply hold it in front of you and move it around.  The red on the Ric also seems more organic. There is less of a hard edge where red meets black and so seems more organic. The effect is truly amazing. On a side note, this is the one benefit to having the X-Plus Ric vinyl over the original Yuji Sakai resin kit. (That and the fact that you don’t have to assemble nor paint it.) The one possible downside is that, unlike the Standard Version, the black paint is a bit thinner in certain areas (notably the neck and chest) thus making the figure look overall redder than it should be. Besides the reflective light effect on the Ric, light can also pass through the figure entirely. You could see a sudden glow from certain angles if you place your figure in front of a lamp or by a window (although we don’t condone that. Sunlight bad!) Plus, you will more often see light passing through the dorsal fins.  Here is a shot with a standing flashlight behind the figure (not in it) shining the light clear through the figure. This should already be giving you ideas… INSTALLING LIGHTS IN THE RIC Yes, you can stuff the Ric Boy with LED strips. Depending on how many you use, it should look amazing. The only problem is that I believe that the back fins are over a double layer of vinyl, so light from the inside may not transmit through the back. Personally, I’m sold on the Ric. It’s really fucking amazing. Early production photos simply didn’t capture the magic. And seeing it in person is a real treat. Don’t take this as me knocking the Standard. I’ve already said that I feel it actually wins when it comes to looking more movie accurate. The sculpt is still stunning and anyone lucky enough to get their hands on one should more more than satisfied with it. Plus — and this is a big one — the regular opaque vinyl on the Standard Version is stronger and far less prone to deformation in hot weather. And, when you have a heavy, long ass tail going up in the air, that is a major consideration.  HEAD The teeth are painted in a reserved, boney, off-white which, thank god, don’t obnoxiously stick out as they do on so many other X-Plus figures. They look fantastic. The eyes are particularly impressive. They are probably too toyishly white, but that’s necessary in this case. The diameter of eye is merely one sixteenth of an inch! And not enough half that space is taken up by a tiny stark black pupil. I’d love to know how the accomplished this. Such a super fine detail. The result are tiny eyes that, despite their small size, manage to pierce their way into view.  TAIL Unlike the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla, the “bony” area at the tip of the tail is painted with a tan that doesn’t really stand out. It blends in more and doesn’t call attention to itself. This is good in a way in that this area doesn’t stick out like it did before. On the other hand, it’s a little hard to see the “face” in the sculpt. You can compare yourself by looking at the photos above and below to see the tail on the Large Monster Series version.  SIZEAgain, this vinyl is about 11.5 inches high from the head to the floor and about 16 inches high from the tip of the upraised tail to the floor. The size of the main body is comparable mostly to the rest of the 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection, the Large Monster Series Favorite Sculptors Line and also about a third of the full 30cm Series. See the size comparisons below for more information. FOOTPRINT / ON THE SHELFObviously, the tail on this vinyl will have something to say about where you can display it. For the most part, it curves up at a steep angle and stops about 16 inches above the shelf. The second half of the tail also curves to the figure’s right side. Hopefully your shelves are high and deep enough to fit him in. SIZE COMPARISONSIt’s time for a ton of size comparisons, starting with the most obvious.  No doubt, the most important size comparison is one with the Toho Large Monster Series (Shin) Godzilla 2016 (Review). While the new Yuji Sakai version is almost a head taller, the figures, overall, feel around about the same overall size. While we’re at it, let’s take a closer look at both since both of these figures since they are so similar. If you have neither, hopefully this will help you decide which one to hunt down.  LARGE MONSTER SERIES SHIN GODZILLA (LEFT) WITH THE YUJI SAKAI MODELING COLLECTION SHIN GODZILLA (RIGHT). While the Yuji Sakai (right) clearly has a superior sculpt, the Large Monster Series, aka 25cm Series, version is absolutely acceptable. The most notable difference being that the 25cm version is a tad shorter, leans forward more and has slightly more visible seams. OTHER SHIN VINYLS  Here is what your new Yuji Sakai Shin Godzilla Fourth Form will look like beside the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla Second Form (left) and the 30cm Series Shin Godzilla Third Form. These two are really meant to display and scale with the Gigantic Series Shin Godzilla so keeping all three of these on the same shelf may be a little odd. But, if you’re not a scale freak, don’t sweat it. YUJI SAKAI MODELING COLLECTION  This new Yuji Sakai Shin Godzilla scales very well with other figures in the line like the Yuji Sakai Godzilla 2001 (click for review) (left) and the Yuji Sakai Godzilla 1991 (right). YUJI SAKAI MODELING COLLECTION GODZILLA 1954  Here is Shin head-to-head with the Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 1954, the design it is likely based on (paying homage to, updated from, etc.) The most notable characteristics common to both are the mushroom cloud-shaped heads, the position of the arms and the grossly expansive jugular notch at the top of the chest. (Funny how the last feature was — no doubt — just clumsy suit making and yet it is celebrated on the 2016 design.) 30CM SERIES  While technically in the 30cm Series, this Shin Godzilla is obviously shorter, but won’t look terrible at all on display with other 30’s in your collection. It’s seen here with the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1964 (click for review) and the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 2014 Roar Version (click for review). 30CM SERIES “SHORTIES”  If you’re worried about the 30cm Series Shin Godzilla being a little on the short side, don’t be. About a full third of this series is just as short. It’s seen here with fellow shorties 30cm Series Godzilla 1984 (click for review) and Godzilla 1968. BTW, the Godzilla 1984 pictured above is the North American (Diamond) Reissue which stands a little taller than the original Japanese release. FAVORITE SCULPTORS LINE  t turns out that the new Yuji Sakai Shin Godzilla, which is short for the 30cm Series, scales well with the Favorite Sculptors Line. Seen here is the FSL Godzilla 2001 and the FSL Godzilla 1962. REAL WORLD COMPARISON  Finally, here is a shot for those of you who have yet to splurge on your first X-Plus figure. What? You don’t do blu rays? Huh? Stream? What, you stream everything? …Millennials. (shakes head). 😛 RIC BOY EXCLUSIVEAs already stated, the Ric Exclusive version is made in clear, translucent vinyl and painted silver on the inside allowing light to play off the surface of the figure. There is no LED light gimmick and no extra mini figure. You simply get a figure with more organic paint apps. SUMMARYThe Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2016 is a fantastic take on Shin Godzilla and ranks at the highest end of the movie accuracy scale. If realism is your thing, then this vinyl is a grand prize winner. It’s upraised tail makes it a little difficult to display but it doesn’t care, and rightly so. The pose is right out of the movie and isn’t that what really matters? It has super intricate textures, sculpting and ultra fine details rarely found on mere toys. This feels more like an official maquette from the Toho SPFX department than a collectible. I’m almost afraid TOHO will be banging on my door trying to take it back! This vinyl is a tribute to Mr. Sakai’s superior sculpting skills and X-Plus’ masterful execution. If you are able to add this piece to your collection, you will not be disappointed. MORE INFORMATIONX-TRAS  By John Stanowski Originally posted October 14th, 2018 on Kaiju Addicts.
Full Review: Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2001 Vinyl Figure By X-Plus12/30/2017  FIGURE SPECS東宝30CMシリーズ 酒井ゆうじ造形コレクション ゴジラ2001「ゴジラ・モスラ・キングギドラ 大怪獣総攻撃」 JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: FEB-MAR 2017 NORTH AMERICAN (DIAMOND) REISSUE: JUNE 2017 SERIES: TOHO 30CM SERIES YUJI SAKAI MODELING COLLECTION MATERIAL: VINYL FROM: “GODZILLA, MOTHRA AND KING GHIDORAH: GIANT MONSTERS ALL-OUT ATTACK” (2001) ゴジラVSデストロイア HEIGHT: 10.875 INCHES / 27.6 CM WIDTH: (TOE TO TOE) 8 INCHES / 20.3 CM LENGTH (RIGHT FOOT TO TIP OF TAIL): 15.75 INCHES / 40 CM FIGURE WEIGHT: 1 LB 1OZ / 482 G REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI GODZILLA: TM & © TOHO CO.,LTD. The Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2001 vinyl figure by X-Plus was first announced in late 2015. It was released in Japan in late February / early March, 2016. It was re-issued by X-Plus for the United States and Canada in June 2017. This figure is based on Godzilla’s appearance in the 2001 Shusuke Kaneko film, Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack, the third movie in the Millennium Series. It was sculpted by renowned Godzilla sculptor, Yuji Sakai. It is the fourth in the Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection. It follows the 30cm Series Godzilla 1989 (Osaka Landing), Godzilla 1991 (Hokkaido Version) and the Gigantic Series Godzilla 2000. THE BOX The 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2001 comes in a plain box (14.25″ x 8.5″ x 13″) with color art only on the cover. Note: the North American (Diamond) Reissue of this figure uses the same box with the exception of the PX (Previews Exclusive) logo added to the front. Inside, the figure is wired into a form-fitting plastic shell. It comes in two pieces: the main body and a tail piece which you must attach. (Watch Rich Eso’s video on how to attach tails the right way.) TAIL BASE
Like most of the Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection, this figure comes with a tail base which it will need in order to stand properly. I really don’t understand Mr. Sakai’s constant need to have his Goji sculpts with their tails up in the air. I would love to be able to pick his figures up and put them down without having to worry about lining up the tail stand first. If you’re not one to handle your figures frequently, then this really shouldn’t be an issue for you.
If you choose to not use the base (or loose it) the figure will still display well from the front as seen in the photo above on the left. Side view is another story though, as you can see in the photo above on the right. SCULPTAnd, here it is. It’s practically a masterpiece. X-Plus’ two previous attempts (in modern times – post 2009) at this suit had both fallen short on movie accuracy to varying degrees. While this sculpt is not completely movie accurate in all areas either (more on that later), it’s very, very close. And, it’s off the charts when it comes to its ability to capture the essence of the GMK suit.  If you ask me, this one right here is the ultimate X-Plus GMK — for those who prefer movie accuracy — to own. There may be some competition for it when the “vinylized” MM28 sculpt comes out in 2018, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. We’re talking about THIS guy right now.  HEAD SCULPT This is one of the areas where this figure really shines. Mr. Sakai did a fantastic job reproducing Godzilla’s head from every angle. No small feat, especially in the world of X-Plus. The head on the 30cm Series Godzilla 2001 was sort of bloated and soft. And the head on the Large Monster Series Godzilla 2001, though better, seems too thin from the front. This Sakai here though… FIVE stars!  New collectors will find that the skin textures on this figure are an intricate playground for your eyes and tactile senses. More experienced collectors may find that this figure has a … “sculptor-ly” quality about it. Not on the intricate details like the face and claws, but on wide patches of skin. The skin texture may come off as being too intricate and too deep when comparing it to the suit used in the movie. I don’t think you should let that bother you though. All of the Sakai figures are like that, and you get used it pretty quickly.  The dorsal spines on Godzilla 2001 are totally unique to this one suit. And their bony, coral-like design is absolutely nailed on this figure. And an expertly added rough texture makes them look even better. EXCEPTIONS TO MOVIE ACCURACY As I wrote earlier, this sculpt is really close to being movie accurate and, currently, no other X-Plus GMK can match it. But if you want to nitpick, there are a couple of areas where it strays from the original suit. The thighs stand out the most. They are overly muscular with bulging top quads down the front center of each leg. This area is generally smooth and roundish all around on the actual suit. The chest on the figure also seems to be a tad ‘chiseled’ compared to the usually flat chest on the suit. (Ironically, the original 30cm Series Godzilla 2001, which is considered a bit on the inferior side, gets both of these areas right.) But even with these two liberties taken by the sculptor, the 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2001 is currently still second to none when it comes to looking like the “real” thing. If you ask me, this one right here is the ultimate X-Plus GMK — for those who prefer movie accuracy — to own. POSEApart from the tail, this figure stands face front, arms at sides and legs spread in a pretty standard pose. That’s the way I like it! The figure stands in a neutral way allowing you to get sucked into all of the crazy good detail. The tail, on the other hand, is kind of radical in it’s sweeping curl up along the figure’s right side. If you view the figure from the front, you’ll see that the tail is almost totally pulled to one side. This may cause a little congestion with a neighboring figure on the shelf. Though I don’t have any trouble with it, even though my figures are packed in tight on display.
JOINTS & SEAMSThe only free joints on this figure is where you connect the tail and below the knees. All three connections are well hidden. Apart from that, it’s other parts are virtually seamless. PAINT JOBThis figure has the usual asphalt black applied over the main body. Like other figures in the Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection, it’s base coat seems to have a richer quality to it. Apart from a touch of lighter black drybrushed onto the chest, it really has no more highlights. But for some reason this doesn’t need them. This thing looks stellar just the way it is. Perhaps because of the way the light plays on it’s deeper textures. Instead of the usual bony tans, the claws are painted a sort of blueish gray which feather well into the feet and well enough on the claws. The most impressive work can be found on the dorsal spines where an off-white (with almost a tinge of blue) expertly feather into the dull black where each bony plate meets the back. Very, very well done. The individually sculpted teeth are individually painted in an off tartar white. A reserved deep, dark red coats the mouth and skillfully fills the space between each tooth. Godzilla’s dead white eyes are sprayed with an off white which does not rush to meet the edges of the skin. This creates a sort of faux shadow look which gives each eye more depth. (It was most likely the easiest way for them to get painted in the factory. Regardless, what you get looks pretty damn cool. The most impressive work can be found on the dorsal spines where an off-white (with almost a tinge of blue) expertly feather into the dull black where each bony plate meets the back. SIZEThe most important thing I could say about this figure’s size is that, compared to the bulk of the Toho 30cm Series, it comes up short at only 27.6cm (10.8 inches). Because of this, it does look smaller all around. But, if you are collecting other figures from the Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection, you’ll find that it fits right in with the rest of the figures. All I can suggest is realize that you now collect 30cm figures and 27.5cm figures. Keep them on their own separate shelves and they’ll look great. If you already also collect the Large Monster Series, you know what I mean. FOOTPRINT / ON THE SHELF As you can see from the photo, and as already mentioned, this GMK has a swooping tail which takes up a lot of space on the figure’s right side. Fortunately, that tail also rises up just enough to let you slip the standard tail of another Sakai below it. So if you do it right, you won’t have a lot of unusable dead space next to this guy. SIZE COMPARISONS THE SAKAIS This GMK fits perfectly in scale with the rest of the Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection vinyls: the Godzilla 1989 Osaka Landing Version, the Godzilla 1991 Hokkaido Version, Godzilla 2001 and the Godzilla 1992 Tanzawa March Version. Unlike most other figures in the Toho 30cm Series, these are actually reach up only as much as 27.5cm tall. If you don’t like zig zags in your X-Plus skyline, just do what I do and display the Sakai’s on their own shelf.  THE GMK’S The newer Yuji Sakai Godzilla 2001 is the clear winner when it comes to matching the suit in the movie. The Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 2001 on the left has some issues, but I’m still glad I have one! On the right is the original Large Monster Series Godzilla 2001 (which came out in 2010). It has a far better sculpt than the 30cm version. But, both of them can’t even touch that Sakai in the middle.  The Sakai GMK is a lightweight nothing when compared to the mass of the Gigantic Series Godzilla 2001. But it does have accuracy on its side. The Gigantic’s stylized approach can’t even come close to the accuracy on the Sakai.  Here is an essential size comparison with the Large Monster Series King Ghidorah 2001. Even though they are about the same height, the KG is actually from a smaller scale. But, seeing as how the Sakai Godzilla 2001 is a couple of centimeters short for its series, it’s a good-looking match for this KG.  Technically, the Large Monster Series King Ghidorah 2001 should be paired with the Large Monster Series GMK on the left. But, yeah, I’m pretty sure he’s lookin’ a little small to be a good match. The so-called 30cm Series GMK on the right looks like a better match. I suppose this means the new King Ghidorah falls into that newer category of figures which are a bit too large for the line — just like the Large Monsters Series Godzilla 1995, Destoroyah and Shin Godzilla. But getting back on track, if you are lucky enough to have purchased the somewhat recently released GMK King Ghidorah from Japan, your Sakai GMK Godzilla will make a great companion for it.  Quick size comparison with some other figures which new and potential X-Plus collectors may have around the house: the S.H. MonsterArts Godzilla 2001 and the 8-inch Bandai.  And, finally here’s a size comparison with a blu ray disc for those who have yet to obtain anything seen above. I hope this shot gives you a good feel for the size of this awesome vinyl. RIC BOY EXCLUSIVEA Shounen Ric Exclusive version was available with light-up fins. SUMMARYThe Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2001 is, in my opinion, one of the best vinyls X-Plus has to offer. It’s very close to movie accuracy and succeeds brilliantly in properly capturing the look of that suit where so many other figures have failed. Its amazing sculpt will quickly cancel out any beef you have with the tail base or it’s unruly tail (which may make it a little difficult for it to coexist on the shelf). MORE INFORMATIONX-TRAS    By John Stanowski Originally posted December 30th, 2017 on Kaiju Addicts.
 FIGURE SPECS東宝30㎝シリーズ スーパーメカゴジラ ショウネンリック限定商品 JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: JULY 2017 NORTH AMERICAN (DIAMOND) REISSUE: MARCH 2018 SERIES: TOHO 30CM SERIES MATERIAL: VINYL FROM: “GODZILLA VS. MECHAGODZILLA” (1993) ゴジラVSメカゴジラ HEIGHT: 14.125 INCHES / 35.8 CM WIDTH: (TOE TO TOE) 6.75 INCHES / 17.1 CM LENGTH (TOES TO TIP OF TAIL): 10.25 INCHES / 17.14 CM FIGURE WEIGHT: (STANDARD) 1 LB, 3 OZ / 623 G, (RIC) 1 LB, 822 OZ REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI GODZILLA: TM & © TOHO CO.,LTD. The Toho 30cm Series Mechagodzilla 1993 東宝30㎝シリーズ メカゴジラ and it’s Ric Exclusive version, the 30cm Series Super Mechagodzilla 東宝30㎝シリーズ スーパーメカゴジラ ショウネンリック限定商品, were released by X-Plus in Japan in July 2017. (UPDATE: This figure was reissued (without Garuda) for the North American market (through Diamond Distributors) in March 2018.) I first found out about this figure two years ago in October of 2015 during an interview with Gee Okamoto from X-Plus. It’s been a hell of a long wait. And, if you ask me, well worth that wait. These figures are fantastic, movie-accurate sculpts based on the suit’s appearance in 1993’s Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla. (Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla II for those of you going by the English titles.) A SIGNIFICANT RELEASE What’s particularly exciting about this release is that it’s the last Mechagodzilla needed to represent all versions of this giant robot in X-Plus’ 30cm Series. It follows Mechagodzilla 1974, Mechagodzilla 1975, Kiryu 2002 Heavy Arms Real Master Collection (and vinyl version), Kiryu 2003 and Kiryu 2003 Heavy Arms version. That’s it! We’ve got ’em all now. The Ric version of this figure comes with Garuda. Finally, the figure is huge at a little over 14 inches tall (as it should be). Now, let’s take a good long look at this glorious bastard. THE BOX The first thing you notice about these boxes are their size. They’re big! (And, there’s a reason for that. But, we’ll get to that.) On the left is the box for the Standard Version (san Garuda). It sports new, full color box art. On the right is the box for the Ric Boy Exclusive Version and boasts the name “Super Mechagodzilla” because this one comes with Garuda. It has mostly monochromatic artwork which uses a fine screened halftone to add some touches of gray. The Ric box probably doesn’t need the full color treatment since you can order them from X-Plus direct only and there’s no need for them to try to catch your eye on a store shelf. Inside, both figures are wired into a plastic shell. Both come with tail stands. And the Ric has comes with Garuda (separate) wired into it’s own cavity. CAREFUL When untwisting the wires, take note that one of the ankles is wired in. I didn’t notice that at first and almost yanked it out of the shell before untwisting it. PUTTING IT TOGETHERTAIL IS ALREADY ATTACHED Like the subhead says: the tail is already attached. But you will have to pull out the included tail base and find that sweet spot that lets the figure stand flat on both feet.  FEET ARE NOT MEANT TO BE EVEN At some point you’ll notice that the toes on your shiny, new Mechagodzilla are not flush. They are not meant to be so there’s no need to mess with the legs. They’re glued and can not be adjusted. ADDING GARUDA TO THE RIC As already mentioned, Garuda comes as a separate piece with the Ric Exclusive version. The Gun turrents are permanently in the down position so as to hang over Mechagodzilla’s shoulders.
There are two pegs on the underside of Garuda which match up with two holes on MG’s back. It’s a fairly simple procedure to attach the ship. Just make sure that it’s all the way on snugly. And be careful also not to press Garuda to hard when attaching it. SCULPT The Toho 30cm Series Mechagodzilla 1993 has an amazing, movie-accurate sculpt. The Garuda piece which comes with the RIC is equally awesome. I can’t help wondering how it’s humanly possible to sculpt these without the aid of a computer. Maybe they used one, who knows? Either way, this figure looks so good it’s as if they took the suit and shrank it down for your shelf.
Mechagodzilla’s signature 1990’s-style curves and soft edges are fantastically reproduced on this figure. Click on the above photos for a closer look at each.
The head is well sculpted and unmistakenly MG’93. The individually sculpted teeth perfectly interlock and just looks FREAKING FANTASTIC. What’s especially impressive is that they are lined up perfectly even when articulated the jaw. The eyes are made of plastic and have a line pattern molded on the inside. They look FANTASTIC. Plate lines are etched into the back and sides of the head and are a nice touch. I should point out, though, that they stand out more in the above photo because of the sharpening applied in Photoshop. In person, they’re much more subtle.  The head looks good, and displays well, from every angle. The head can rotate left and right. The jaw can open and close. The shoulders can rotate along the Y axis and the wrists can move as well. POSE
The pose is standard and just the way I like it. One thing to note is that the left foot is slightly back behind the the right. Other than that, each side is a mirror image of the other. That is, until you start playing with the articulation… ARTICULATION
JOINTS & SEAMSSince “seams” are already built into the actual suits when it comes to robots like Mechagodzilla, they’re very rarely a concern on the X-Plus figures. The only area where I noticed a join was around the knees and over the knee caps. While the pieces above and below this join fit perfectly, there are hairline gaps on my Standard figure. Doesn’t look that bad though. Other than that, there is virtually no visible evidence that this figure was put together from smaller parts. As for joints, there are several, they move, and you already know about them. PAINT JOBThe paint apps on the figure are very simple. Damn near all of Mechagodzilla’s body is coated in a silver which is shiny enough to look like metal, yet matte enough to prevent reflections and specular hot spots. From what I could see from the movie and its various lighting conditions, X-Plus got this coat of paint mostly right. COOL SILVER I should point out that this base silver coat leans toward the cooler side of the color spectrum. By ‘cool’, I mean that this color isn’t completely neutral but rather comes off… well, cool. It’s has a super slight tinge of blue in it as opposed to the ‘warm’ grays on both the Showa and Millennium Mechagodzillas. You will notice this difference on the shelf. IT’S PAINTED SIMPLY, BUT ACCURATELY The one possible complaint one might have is that it seems too simple, even though actual suit was similarly simple. There is shadowing lightly sprayed on edges in the segments of the neck and tail as well as various other areas. The thrusters on the back and rear legs are sprayed in with black which features out to meet the bright metal on the outside, giving it the burnt… well, that burnt thruster look. The bottoms of the feet are sprayed black with the same feathering. Strong black paint apps occur at the back of the knees, waist, wrists and elbows adding nice details. I just wish there were more. But we can’t go beyond how the actual suit looked. I do, though, think that the kneecaps could have benefited greatly with some of that shadowing. The eyes are made of ABS plastic which is tinted in a yellowy orange. There is a fine line pattern sculpted into the eyes on the inside which naturally create their own highlight and shadow pattern. Overall, the paint job is pretty basic, but also pretty movie-accurate. It was a long wait and I’m stoked to finally have this guy on my shelf. Its release fills a piece of the void in X-Plus’ Heisei line-up. And, I just can’t recommend this figure enough. FOOTPRINT / ON THE SHELFAt a little over 14 inches tall, this figure is taller than most 30cm Series figures. However, it keeps to itself on the shelf. This figure doesn’t reach out with an overly wide stance nor demand room behind it with a long and winding tail. It has a relatively small overall footprint on the shelf. This is good news since his most likely shelf buddies, the 30cm Series Battra Larva and Space Godzilla, are true shelf hogs. SIZE The Toho 30cm Series Mechagodzilla (1993) and SuperMechagodzilla is BIG. The figure stands at just a little over 14 inches tall. Needless to say, the size is first thing you’ll notice about this new figure. That and how much taller he is than other figures in the line. It almost seems like a mistake– but it’s not. MG was a BIG guy in this movie and he did indeed tower over Godzilla. So, scale freaks, rejoice! If you’re not nitpicky about accurate scale and prefer your 30’s to be flush at the top, this size discrepancy may not work out for you. SIZE COMPARISONS 30CM SERIES Here is the new figure beside its two closest Godzilla relatives: the 30cm Series Godzilla 1992 on the left, and the 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 on the right. Click those linked names above to see my full reviews of each.  30CM MECHAGODZILLAS As mentioned earlier, X-Plus’ line of Mechagodzilla figures in the 30cm Series is now complete. Since the 30cm Series Mechagodzilla 1974 and Mechagodzilla 1975 are the same height, I chose to compare this new guy with only the latter. As for the all 5 variations available for Kiryu, I chose the 30cm Series Kiryu 2003 here to represent them all. If you’re only collecting Mechagodzilla’s, this zigzag skyline of metal heads may bother you. But remember, MG 75 and Kiryu are both around 50 meters tall whereas MG 1993 is almost twice as tall if you go by the movies.  HEISEI MONSTERS Here is a size comparison with the Toho 30cm Series Battra Larva and the Toho 30cm Series Space Godzilla. If the Heisei era is your thing, we now have three figures in this line that harken back to the 1990’s. And if size and scale isn’t an issue for you, X-Plus’ Large Monster Series also offers Biollante and Destoroyah.  This new Mechagodzilla clearly doesn’t accurately scale with the Toho Large Monster Series Destoroyah. But if your collection is a mixed bag of sizes and scales, you’ll probably agree that they do look good together. Together both are sure to impress with their huge mass and presence. (Don’t let this pic fool you. Both of these guys are pretty big and demand attention.)  For those looking for ways to squeeze even more Heisei goodness onto their shelves, the Diamond Select Fire Rodan (1993) vinyl bank can make an okay stand-in until X-Plus decides to get one to us.  Casual fans may think this Rodan is far to small to match, but actually, it should be even smaller. Rodan wasn’t very big in Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla (1993). The detail on this Rodan sculpt is a little soft, and it’s paint apps don’t even come close to X-Plus standards. It’s up to you whether this guy is welcome to buddy up with this new MG. They’re both from the same movie.  RECENT RELEASES Here is a size comparison with recent X-Plus releases. As you can see, this new Mechagodzilla is taller than even the 30cm Series Godzilla 2014! (This was recently released as a Diamond Reissue). Also in this shot from the Toho Large Monsters (left to right): Titanosaurus, Gabara and Hedorah.
Here’s a real world comparison of the figure with a bluray disc on the left, and with the S.H. MonsterArts version of Mechagodzilla 1993 on the right. RIC BOY EXCLUSIVE The Shounen RIC Exclusive ショウネンリック限定版 version of this figure comes with an in-scale Garuda ガルーダ which attaches to the back. Attaching Garuda to the figure is not an option as there is no ‘replacement’ back piece to cover the raw back (as you can see in the photos in the Putting It Together section of this review. Note, too, that Garuda’s main cannons are fixed in the down position, so there’s no chance of displaying both the figure and the ship separately. If you do ever tire of seeing this ship strapped to MG’s back, you can, of course, remove it. As long as you have the figure facing front on the shelf, no one would ever know his back was bare. WATCH THOSE CANNONS The main guns are made of vinyl which is unfortunate since we all know what happens when vinyl gets warm. Hopefully, over time, these big guns will not start to droop.  As for the ship itself, it looks amazing. It’s a shame that most of this detail will likely be facing your back wall. But it’s guns will always been seen no matter which angle you display it at. Garuda is painted in a combination of silver and white. The silver is a warm shade and you can see the difference between it and the cool silver on the main figure. SUMMARYThe Toho 30cm Series Mechagodzilla 1993 and the 30cm Series Super Mechagodzilla (RIC) are both amazing, movie-accurate vinyl versions of the original MG suit. Its size is impressive at a little over 14 inches tall which gives it a bit more shelf “presence” over other figures in the line. Despite being larger, it’s really in scale with the other figures, and that warms my scale freak heart. It’s paint apps seem simple but actually do a great job of representing the colors of this giant robot right from the movie. It was a long wait and I’m stoked to finally have this guy on my shelf. Its release fills a piece of the void in X-Plus’ Heisei line-up. And, I just can’t recommend this figure enough. MORE INFORMATION
X-TRAS     By John Stanowski Originally posted September 2nd, 2017 on Kaiju Addicts.
 FIGURE SPECSJAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: NOT RELEASED IN JAPAN. NORTH AMERICAN (DIAMOND) ORIGINAL RELEASE: AUGUST 2017. SERIES: KAIJU 12IN SERIES (30CM SERIES) MATERIAL: VINYL FROM: “GODZILLA 2000: MILLENNIUM” (1999) ゴジラ2000 ミレニアム HEIGHT (HEAD TO FLOOR): 10.125 INCHES / 25.7 CM HEIGHT (FINS TO FLOOR): 11 INCHES / 27.9 CM WIDTH: (TOE TO TOE AT ANGLE) 8 INCHES / 20.3 CM LENGTH (NOSE TO TIP OF TAIL): 21.5 INCHES / 54.6 CM REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI GODZILLA: TM & © TOHO CO.,LTD. A CURIOUS RELEASE We first learned about what would eventually be named the Godzilla Kaiju 12in Series Godzilla 1999 (2000) Version 2 vinyl figure by X-Plus in July 2016. It was on display at Diamond Distributor‘s booth at San Diego Comic-Con. Collectors pointed out that this figure originally appeared as a KOC resin kit, and later a vinyl, which came out around the same time as the movie did. What’s curious about this vinyl is, it was never released in Japan by X-Plus. I assumed it would show up as a Japanese release at some point before we got it here in North America, but that never happened. This is pretty interesting. Might we get more surprises like this? So, what we have here is a first. The U.S. and Canada get this special release and Japan does not. At least not yet. Perhaps it will show up on the Japanese X-Plus site at some point. Either way, we have it NOW so let’s focus on that. This North American Release arrived in stores on August 23, 2017. It has a suggested retail price of $160 and you can order one of these right now at your local comic store. QUICK SIDENOTE I originally dismissed this figure. X-Plus had already put out a proper 30cm Series Godzilla 1999 (2000) and I was more than happy with that one. Plus, this new one looked a bit stylized to me. Perhaps I thought that way because of its dynamic pose and bright fins. It was hard to tell since we’ve had only one photo to stare at for over a full year. Also, on not only my mind but many others’, was the drastic step the figure is taking. It looked like a prime candidate for Vinyl Topple Syndrome. As it turns out, this figure looks really, really good. And, its balance is totally solid. To help you decide whether or not you need this guy on your shelf, I present this review.  THE BOX
The first thing you notice about the box is its lively new cover art. On it, the figure is called “Godzilla 1999 Ver. 2” although the full name from Diamond has been “Godzilla 1999 2K Millennium Ver. 2” for the past year. Next thing to notice is its height. At 18 inches, it’s much taller than the average X-Plus box. Open it and you’ll see why. Rather than placing the tail joint near the “butt”, X-Plus decided to have a 7-inch portion of the tail already permanently attached to the body. Since the dorsal fins are not in the way, I can only assume this was done to help keep the figure sturdy with it’s drastic footspan. (It does.) The figure and an additional tail piece, which you must insert, come wired in a plastic shell. The fins on this figure seems to have a bit more room than the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1999 (original release) does. So if you order this figure in the cold winter, there will be less of a chance for getting one with broken fins. PUTTING IT TOGETHER Putting the tail on this guy is ridiculously easy compared to other figures.  Since the joint is about 7 inches away from the body, the female end is a lot smaller. And the male end on the smaller tail piece doesn’t have the usual, flimsy “suction-cup” flange which is often prone to coiling in on itself when attaching. As usual, get your hairdryer and heat up the hole on the main body. KEEP THE TAIL COOL so that it remains hard. When the hole on the body softens up from the heat, just insert the tail and twist. The round joint makes twisting easier. I was able to get this tail on very quickly and with no trouble at all. SCULPT The 12in Series Godzilla 1999 Version 2 vinyl figure by X-Plus sports a fantastic sculpt leaning heavily toward the movie accurate side of the dial. It’s dramatic pose, though, makes it somewhat difficult to really tell if it could be said to look like it walked right out of the movie. What is clear is that every detail, if not accurate, it completely represented on this figure. Each dorsal fin is comparable to a fin on the original 30cm Series Godzilla 1999. The paths of the textures and even each bump on the face is all there. When comparing this figure to photos, it’s the same thing. All of the details, even the smaller one we never pay attention to, are there. It’s very clear that the sculptor had good reference material and went above and beyond to capture every detail. He accomplished this without having the opportunity to get to know this suit and have this (then) new design burn into his brain with repeat viewings of the movie over a period of years. (This figure came out shortly after the movie was released.)  HEAD SCULPT The head on this figure is fan-fucking-tastic! As I mentioned before, each of those bumps on his snout correlates to bumps on the actual suit. And the proportions and sizes look perfect as well. Although the tongue is not individually sculpted, it certainly gives the appearance of being a separate piece. The teeth, which ARE individually sculpted look …fan-fucking-tastic! I’m totally impressed with these incisors and think this may be one of my favorite set of choppers from X-Plus. Not shown here: the roof of the mouth has a series of deep, radiating ridges. It’s good to know there is detail waiting to be discovered on this figure, even when it’s not out in the open.  Every angle of the head sculpt looks fantastic. Although the front view makes him look a little drunk in the eyes. But you can see the intentional Godzilla 1962 influence on the design here especially. The top of the head and the “eyebrows” seem a bit too large and high. The original 1999 release wins here. LITTLE DETAILS Do you see that little bulge in the skin right under the jaw on the right pic? That bulge would appear whenever the mouth opened wide on the suit. I think it’s fantastic that the sculptor took the time to capture such a small detail.  TEXTURES The sculpted details on the chest match the suit and, in my opinion, actually appear to have received more attention than those on the original 30cm Series Godzilla 1999 release. While the lighter paint and subtle highlights play a part in making it seem that way, the details really are more chiselled and sharp on this Version 2.  DORSAL FINS The sculpting of the dorsal fins is incredible and perfectly capture the new look from this suit. But, there is more going on here than you may think when casually looking. While not completely perfect matches, almost each and every spike follows each and every turn and angle from the spikes on the actual suit. This is insane attention to detail! (Just for the record, the original Godzilla 1999 release also deserves some praise for this.) I have to say, the “personality” of the suit movement and suit actor Tom Kitagawa is captured really well in this pose when you view it from the front. POSEThe 12in Series Godzilla 1999 Version 2 is posed in a braced and forceful forward march. It’s body leans heavily forward and, perhaps most notably, the right leg is reaching far back with the ankle in the air. It reminds me of when Godzilla comes out of the ocean and advances onto the beach before get attacked by the JSDF and also the scene where he advanced toward Orga later in the city. I have to say, the “personality” of the suit movement and suit actor Tom Kitagawa is captured really well in this pose when you view it from the front. That’s the kind of detail that’s sometimes harder to capture than actual physical details. I almost get the sense of movie-accurate movement when looking at this from the front.
This figure’s best angle is the forward right angle as seen in the production shot we’ve been looking at for a year. This angle, though, will cause the tip of the tail to poke the back wall making it slightly more difficult to fit on a smaller shelf. The forward left angle also looks great, and here the tail will curve out of the way of the back wall. Also from this angle, more of the chest and front of the figure is visible making an almost picture perfect angle good enough for a movie poster. The left flank of this figure is also a great choice. But the full on right flank is crap because of that backward angled leg lining up with the slanted body. Almost every rear angle looks great but they’re not good for anything other than toy photography since no one will pose this guy facing the wall. I do particularly like the full-on back view of this figure. The combination of the figure’s pose and it’s sweeping tail just looks cool as hell. THE LEANA by-product of this pose, and the first of three minor complaints of mine, is the drastic forward lean seen from about a third of the angles of view. From some views, Godzilla looks like he’s tilted at some near-impossible angles. Impossible, that is, unless he’s about to fall to the ground. I think that it’s just an “illusion”. This position is totally plausible when marching forward like this. Think of an olympic track and field runner first sprinting forward in a race. His whole body is slanted even more forward than Godzilla here. But I can see how it would bother some. One might say, ‘well, don’t display him at any of those angles’. And, I’ll say it now since it has to be said. But it would be nice if we didn’t have to avoid these sides of the figure. On the bright side, this pose is very dynamic and that’s not something we X-Plus collectors are used to getting. And this dynamic pose really does a good job of capturing the essence of this suit’s movement. The first thing you’ll notice about the this new Ver. 2 vinyl is it’s lighter greenish-black base coat. This is one of the many things that sets it apart from the original 30cm Series Godzilla 1999, which made no attempt to acknowledge the greenish shades of the Godzilla 2000 suit in its paint apps. JOINTS & SEAMSThere are obvious seams above both biceps and below both knees. Seams are commonly found in these locations on many X-Plus figures. It’s just that all four seem to be more visible than usual on this figure, possibly due to the lighter paint apps. Click on the photos from the Pose Section for larger views to see these. The is a nearly invisible seam running around the right ankle. You’d have to actually look for it to see it. Since the upper half of the tail comes already attached to the body, there is no gap at all near the butt like we’re used to seeing. The actual tail joint, being halfway down the tail is totally invisible, hidden within a ridge in the sculpt. PAINT JOB The first thing you’ll notice about the this new Ver. 2 vinyl is it’s lighter greenish-black base coat. This is one of the many things that sets it apart from the original 30cm Series Godzilla 1999, which made no attempt to acknowledge the greenish shades of the Godzilla 2000 suit in its paint apps. (You can see the original figure in the size comparison section below.) So which figure has it right? While the suit was technically a dark green, we barely got to see this in the movie. The only time I can recall seeing the green actually showing up in the film was during Godzilla’s first encounter with the flying meteorite. This was shot at the Toho “pool” and was straight photography whereas most of the other day shots containing Godzilla were so badly composited (and color corrected) against actual locations that he wound up looking like he had the traditional charcoal black color. (There was, though, some effort to show the green in the one CGI shot of Godzilla swimming under water.) Dusty, subtle highlights cover the higher elevations of the skin textures and this is, as always, a really nice touch. The next thing that stands out is the intensity of the magenta/purple dorsal fins. They’re kind of on the bright side. A bit too bright to be movie accurate. I do recall the fins actually looking the same as this figure in a few shots of the night scene where Godzilla confronts Orga. But other than those, the fins tended to appear to have a much more reserved color. So, yeah, this figure is a bit on the flashy side. The paint used on the fins is somewhat metallic and because of that, they’re pretty “shiny”. Perhaps if they were a bit duller, they would appear more movie-accurate. The attention-getting color of these fins is my second minor peeve with this figure. Though I have to admit, they don’t offend all of the time. In darker light they look just fine. They may look a bit crazy in my photos, but remember that I’m blasting them with two huge lights. The figure will look a lot better on your shelf with normal light. Godzilla’s teeth are a (to me) perfect shade of tartar, dirty white and look much better than the overly pearly whites on the original 1999 figure. The eyes are a definite improvement over the original figure as far as contrast and visibility goes. But, I actually prefer the cloudy eyes on the original. Overall, this figure will stand out on your shelf with its lighter, greener skin and flashy fins. As collector Leslie Chambers first pointed out, the Ver. 2 may be a good stand-in for a Godzilla vs. Megaguirus vinyl. SIZEMy third concern about this figure is that, for all intents and purposes, it’s short.  At first glance, this new G2K figure seems significantly shorter than it’s predecessor, the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1999. But it looses a lot of height because of it’s forward leaning pose. That fact does not console, though, for at the end of the day, on the shelf, it “looks” shorter.  If it makes you feel any better, it’s actually almost the same size as the first version when you lay them down on their sides. Here, the figures line up almost perfectly in height. So, “technically”, this figure is a good match for the 30cm Series. But, if you still can’t get around that, just remember that the 30cm Series Godzilla 1984, 1968 and 2004 are also short. SIZE COMPARISONS If you’re going to let this visually shorter figure bother you, consider placing him on a different shelf. Here, the Ver. 2 is flanked by the Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 1989 and Godzilla 2001. This line is notorious for being too short for the 30cm Series. Some collectors, like myself, choose to display them on their own shelf where they can line up perfectly with one another. The Ver. 2 is, visually, a good match. And, it’s not the only one…  Several recent Toho Large Monster Series figures are far too tall for their line. The Large Monster Series Godzilla 1995 (left), Destoroyah (not shown) and Shin Godzilla 2016 Fourth Form actually line up well with the Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection, and our new guy here, Godzilla 1999 Ver. 2. If you don’t already have a “27.5cm” shelf, perhaps now is the time to start one.  For you Godzilla 2000 super fans, a group shot with the Gigantic Series Godzilla 2000 and the 30cm Series version. FOOTPRINT Godzilla is posed into one large arc, curling slightly inward on its left side. The tail swinging to the left helps the figure keep perfect balance, despite it’s wide step. It also makes it easier to get this guy closer to the back wall. A GOOD STAND-IN FOR GODZILLA VS. MEGAGUIRUS?As collector Leslie Chambers first pointed out, the Ver. 2 may be a good stand-in for a Godzilla vs. Megaguirus vinyl. Think of it. How likely is it at this point that X-Plus will put out a (Megaguirus) MireGoji figure? You could take this Ver. 2 and use it as a stand-in. The same suit was used for Godzilla vs. Megaguirus after a few minor tweaks. And, unless you’re a super detail freak, you probably wouldn’t even know the difference. Well, I wouldn’t anyway. What most anyone could notice, though, is that the second movie featured what appeared to be more of a greenish Godzilla. As I mentioned earlier, the 1999 suit was definitely dark green. But due to an abundance of poor composite work, and a lot of night shots, most the green simply got lost. However, Godzilla vs. Megaguirus is packed with straight, in-camera cinematography shot on the sound stage under mostly bright lights. Because of this, we tend to think of MireGoji’s second movie as being greener. And the Ver. 2 vinyl is definitely greener. Plus, it’s my guess that we’re more likely to get a new Megaguirus vinyl from X-Plus than a new MireGoji Godzilla. And, if and when that happens, you’ll already be prepared to pose the Ver. 2 beside it! SUMMARYThe 12in Series Godzilla 1999 Ver. 2 Previews Exclusive vinyl figure does have a few issues. It’s short. The fins are a bit too vibrant. And its marching pose makes him appear to be leaning from several angles. But it ain’t all bad. This figure has a movie-accurate sculpt which skillfully incorporates little details casual viewers aren’t even aware of (including me!). It has a fantastic, dynamic pose which accurately captures the spirit of Tom Kitagawa and the G2K suit. Having spent time with this figure for this review, I can’t imagine not having it on my shelves. It may not be the best. But, it’s certainly no where even near the worst. Plus, it makes for a great stand-in for a Godzilla vs. Megaguirus Godzilla. It’s definitely a keeper and worth getting. WHERE TO GET ONE(Note this sections information is not valid now but is included as it was part of the review.) As of this writing, the 12in Series Godzilla 1999 Ver. 2 vinyl figure has just now been released. Now is the time to grab one. So far this figure is a North American release only. You probably won’t find any from Japanese stores unless they find their way over there via the gray market. This figure is a Previews Exclusive and available only from authorized Diamond Comics Distributors retailers. To find one you need look no further than your local comic book store. There not likely to be in stock when you get there, but they can certainly order one for you. Keep in mind that this figure is not the only Godzilla 1999 figure Diamond ever released. So to avoid confusion, tell the guy behind the counter that you want the GODZILLA 12IN SER GODZILLA 1999 2K MILLENNIUM VER PX FIG. Even better, give them the current Item Code which is AUG162829. If you’re not up for a two to three week wait, you can order one online from a mess of online retailers. MORE INFORMATIONX-TRAS By John Stanowski Originally posted August 27th, 2017 on Kaiju Addicts.
 FIGURE SPECS東宝30㎝シリーズ 「ゴジラ1995」 JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: APRIL 2017 SERIES: TOHO 30CM SERIES MATERIAL: VINYL FROM: “GODZILLA VS. DESTOROYAH” (1995) ゴジラVSデストロイア HEIGHT: 12.875 INCHES / 32.7 CM WIDTH: (TOE TO TOE) 9 INCHES / 22.8 CM LENGTH (NOSE TO TIP OF TAIL): 20.375 INCHES / 51.7 CM FIGURE WEIGHT: 2 LBS / 907 G REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI GODZILLA: TM & © TOHO CO.,LTD. The Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 vinyl figure by X-Plus was first revealed at the Miyazawa Model Exhibition (a private industry event) in late 2016. Pre-orders for the figure opened February 3, 2017 and ended on February 19, 2017. The figure was released in April 2017. The average price for the Standard Version was about $190. The RIC Exclusive version of this figure came with a mini Oxygen Destroyer and sold for ¥25,920 (about $232). This release marks the first time X-Plus has put out an original 30cm Series Heisei Godzilla original sculpt (Not Sakai) since 2013 with the release of the 30cm Series Godzilla 1984. Also consider that we haven’t seen ANY other X-Plus original 30cm Godzilla’s after 2013 besides the two versions of the Godzilla 2014 figure. Yes, it’s been a long, long time but X-Plus is back with bang. The new 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 is f’n AMAZING. It has a fantastic movie-accurate (mostly) sculpt based on the suit used in Godzilla vs. Destoroyah (1995). At almost 13 inches tall, it stands higher than most other figures in the series. It also has quite a bit of heft to it making it “feel” more expensive than it already is. It employs translucent vinyl and painting tricks to reproduce Godzilla’s fission glows without the use of any actual light. It’s an awesome effect which was also used on X-Plus’ two previous (modern) DesuGoji figures. In my opinion, this 30cm Series version is X-Plus’ finest attempt at capturing the look of Burning Godzilla in vinyl. I feel that it is THE must-have version if you’re all about wanting something that looked like it walked out of the movie. While the Gigantic Series version is considered by many to be a flagship X-Plus figure because of it’s size and dynamic ferocity, it is heavily stylized. This new 30cm Series version, though, is very carefully modeled after what we actually saw in the movie; and it mostly succeeds. If I could save only one from a fire, I’d save the 30. So far, the 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 is a big hit with collectors — and rightly so. Now, let’s open that box! THE BOX
The Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 vinyl figure by X-Plus comes in the standard brown blind box design with full color art glued to the cover. As expected, the box is a bit larger than we’re used to. (Its dimensions are roughly 16″ x 14″ x 9″ / 40.6cm x 35.5cm x 22.8cm.) Inside, the figure is fastened into an open plastic shell with several annoying wire ties, each of which needs to be undone or cut before the figure can step out. Extra precautions in the form of plastic booties and gloves help to keep the fragile paint on the claws safe from scratches. A frequent complaint with X-Plus packaging is the close proximity between the left toes and the inside of the cover. Any impacts on the covers get transferred to those toes and potentially cause nicks in the paint. I’m pleased to report that in the case of this guy here, those toes are kept well enough away from the inside of the box. The tail comes in a separate piece and is fastened and taped in beside the figure. TWO LEFT FEET? DON’T PANIC  Right out of the box it may appear that your new figure has two left feet, the right foot awkwardly mimicking the angle of the left. Don’t fret. The foot rotates under the knee and it can be adjusted with a slight twist. That foot may have settled to the left when placed in the box, or possibly was intentionally rotated to make more room in the box. Either way, you can fix it easily. PUTTING IT TOGETHER The tail must be connected by you. The best way to do that is to heat the butt end of the tail (left) with a hair dryer until it can be squeezed as easily as a sponge. Heat makes vinyl soft and pliable. Cold temperatures do just the opposite; they make vinyl figures hard. You want the tail’s flange (suction cup / right) to be hard so that it will easily pop into the soft body end of the tail. After it’s connected, let it cool and the figure will promptly firm up. EASY ASSEMBLY I have to say that this was one of the easiest X-Plus tails I’ve ever attached. It popped right in. A welcome change after the challenging tail on the Large Monster Series Titanosaurus from last month. That was one of the hardest tails I’ve ever dealt with. SCULPT And, here it is: the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1995. I think it’s one of the best figures to come out in a while. As mentioned earlier, this figure is carefully sculpted to be as movie-accurate as possible. I think it’s damn near perfect. There are some exceptions, though, which I’ll get to further down in this review. For now, I just need to say that “THIS is the one.” This is X-Plus’ best go at bringing us the next best thing to owning the actual suit shrunken down to 13 inches. At least in vinyl (currently). It’s funny — even though I only just received this figure, I feel like it’s been around for a while. I suppose that’s because the Gigantic Series and Large Monster Series (Daikaiju Series) versions have already been in my collection for some time now. This new 30cm Series version, though, is what I always wished the other two were. Is there room for three X-Plus Burning Godzilla‘s in your collection? Hell, yeah. You need that Large Monster Series version to go with the Large Monster Series Destoroyah and the rest of your Large Monster Series vinyls. And, you sure as shit still need that powerful Gigantic Series figure that captures and projects the spirit of the 1995 design so well. If you don’t yet have any of these, and accuracy is your thing, then this new 30cm Series figure is the best one for you.  Back to that fantastic likeness. The badassery and doppelgänger looks above are sure to win you over. To check the accuracy of the sculpt, I compared the figure to the Godzilla vs. Destoroyah bluray. I frequently paused the movie and compared what I saw on the television to the figure in front of me. Damn near every time I saw a perfect (or a good enough to make me happy) match.  I tried to find little details and compare those as well. And that’s where I very pleasantly surprised. For example, DesuGoji’s corner canines every so slightly project down further than the rest of his double-rowed teeth. That small detail is present on the figure and in just the right amount. I also noticed the horizontal rings on Godzilla’s neck curving over his throat, meeting the vertical tendons on either side. Again, just the right proportions, depth and just everything. One detail from the figure that I could not find in the movie is the way the snout sort of angles upward, the same way your four fingers do, unconvincingly, in a sock puppet. The Large Monster Series version also does this. I don’t understand why they have a problem with this. The top of the snout should be level with Godzilla’s forehead. Also, the details on the front of the snout seem a little… soft. Nothing at all like the botch job on the Large Monster Series version. And, thankfully it’s really only noticeable on the 30cm Series version in close-up photos. Despite these two minor nitpicks, I feel that this head has a great sculpt and manages to capture Godzilla’s power and anger with that FIERCE roar pose and those piercing, yet still somehow lifeless and unnerving eyes.  The head sculpt looks fantastic from all angles. This is unmistakably Godzilla 1995’s face from any direction. …this 30cm Series version is X-Plus’ finest attempt at capturing the real look of Burning Godzilla in vinyl. POSEAs usual, X-Plus has sculpted Godzilla in a pleases-all, standard museum pose. If you’re one to over-analyze your figures, you may find an ever so slight series of twists and turns, like a sea snake propelling itself through the water. This is most easily seen from a rear view (see below) or from the top. Though you may not see this fluid twisting from the front, it does cause his head to veer to the right and his arms to the left; particularly the left arm. Nice touch.
The X-Plus 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 will look great on your shelf facing forward or turned slightly to either side. And if you display it in a central, open space, know that it’s going to look good all around. JOINTS & SEAMSFor the most part, this figure’s moveable joints and glued seams hardly bring any attention to themselves. The one obvious offender is where both arms attach to the body just above the biceps. There’s a glaring case of tight-string-around-the-finger there. The left arm isn’t quite as bad as the right. SOFT HANDS What’s particularly interesting with the arms and hands, is that even though they are separate pieces and have no use for the softer translucent vinyl used on the main body (for the fiery patch effect), they are kind of soft. You can easily bend the hands and forearms. DO NOT TRY THIS if your figure is cold and firm. I don’t want you busting off a finger because I mentioned it. The tail joint, which you connect, and the other tail joint you may not have known was there (already connected in the box) are nearly perfectly hidden between the ridged segments sculpted into the figure. LEGS ROTATE Both legs have loose joints below the flab of each knee. They can be rotated, or even removed. Folds in the sculpt over the figure’s left knee, though, restrict any movement. The right knee has total freedom. This is good to know in case you notice that foot may be a little off rotation. Know that you can easily correct it.  There’s a zig-zag of a seam running up and down vertically on both sides of the head, just behind the ears. You’re not likely to notice this from a distance. But I bring it up now because so many of my close-up photos show it clearly. You’ll barely notice it when it’s in front of you. PAINT JOBThe Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 vinyl figure has a base coat of a dusty, asphalt black. All X-Plus figures start here and this shade looks realistic, reserved and not toyish at all as you would find on many lesser brands. HIGHLIGHTS Usually, X-Plus brings new meaning to the word “subtle” when it comes to brushing on highlights over the black skin, often leaving you wishing for more. I’m pleased to see that they were significantly more liberal with the highlights which are abundant on the figure’s back behind the arms, the legs and the sides of the tail. These highlights are still extremely subtle and often won’t be noticed consciously unless you take a closer look.  FIERY PATCHES As for the most obvious color scheme literally screaming on this figure: fiery patches set the figure ablaze with vibrant orange and yellow paint applications. These bright colors are meant to be a reflective light alternative to reproducing the intense fission glows which plagued Godzilla in the film. In other words, they set out to make the figure look like it is ablaze with light under the skin, without actually using any light gimmick. This technique only goes so far and can appear to be merely paint in some lighting conditions. But to give the effect that extra push, X-Plus ingeniously employed translucent (or perhaps even fully clear) vinyl on the chest, belly and legs. Bright yellow paint was applied ON THE INSIDE of the figure, leave the clear vinyl to refract light on the outside. Reddish / orange “shadowing” was sprayed around the edges to help create a gradation of color and faux light. The black skin color was then applied on the outside and forked into spikes as it meets the burning patch areas. Because the vinyl is clear, the black spikes can appear almost as if they are “floating” over the brighter colors. Fortunately this seem mostly in close-up photos. To the naked eye, the effect looks great.  DORSAL FINS The dorsal fins on the back are molded in orange-tinted clear vinyl which easily allows back light sources make them appear to glow. If you have this guy by an open window or in front of a lamp, you can expect the fins to come alive. [ NOTE: in the photo above I have a flashlight beside the figure making the fins appear to light-up. To be clear: there IN NO LIGHT GIMMICK included with this figure. A light gimmick was added to the smaller Large Monster Series version of the ’95 and wasn’t particularly successful. ]  TOO BRIGHT? The fiery fission patches on this new 30cm Series version are a LOT brighter than I was expecting. I have to say I prefer the colors on the Large Monster Series version. As for the dorsal fins, they are equally overly bright on the new 30 as compared to the 25 (which seems like they’re darker than they should be). I think a color in between the two would have been perfect. 30 FIXES A GOOF ON THE 25 It’s interesting to note that the translucent orange runs in the dorsal fins much lower on the Large Monster Series version. On the 30cm Series version, they abruptly stop after only four big fins. Don’t worry. X-Plus isn’t skimping. The 30cm version here has it right. This is how it actually appeared in the movie. (Looks like someone took a design liberty on that 25.) GREY FINS The rest of the smaller dorsal fins which run along the tail are not painted in the usual ashy white. Instead, they’re gray; almost a metallic, bluish gray. It looks like the same color they used on the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1984 Shinjuku Decisive Battle Version with nighttime paint scheme. I’m not saying that’s good or bad. I only care if it’s accurate. And I can’t tell from watching the movie. Accurate or no, it looks good. Usually the dorsal fins are painted with too stark a white (for me). This looks good!  HOLD ON THERE… NOT SURE THAT’S RIGHT Okay, now this bit here bugs me. This patch on the belly does not match what we see in most of the movie. The belly of the 30cm Series version here is ablaze with this mostly vertical, upside down spearhead of yellow and orange. It should appear as a more horizontal, sort of Superman emblem / Mazinger Z chest piece sort of shape. It’s shaped that way on the Gigantic Series and Large Monster Series versions. It even looks that way on the Yuji Sakai’s new Godzilla 1995 resin sculpt AND the S.H.MonsterArts. (And, of course, 98% of the movie.) Since this patch follows the boundaries of the sculpt, this leads me to wonder if there’s something off about the sculpt itself. I was all ready to complain a LOT more about this until I finished re-watching Godzilla vs. Destoroyah. The fiery fission glow on the belly does indeed resemble this shape right after Godzilla attempts to revive Junior and during Destoroyah’s second attack in its adult form. But this is only for a few shots. That leaves us with a little consistency issue here. The presence of this configuration on the belly sets this figure up to be how Godzilla appeared right before his meltdown, and yet there is none of the damage (mostly seen on his left shoulder) from Destoroyah’s powerful “Laser Horn” attacks which occurred a few scenes back. I find it curious that X-Plus got so much on this figure right only to slip up here.  EYES The second most attention getting paint app are the figure’s piercing eyes. Each black pupil is surrounded by a light orange iris which is framed in a thin strip of black. Together they float above darker orange sclera (whites). These eyes are insanely well done. I don’t know how it was accomplished but it looks they must be some form of decals. And they’re also kinda of shiny when hit with the light, almost like there was a clear sheet of plastic over them. However it was done, the end effect is hypnotic. My only complaint here is the the “whites” are too light. They appeared much darker in the movie, allowing the irises in the center to stand out more.  TEETH Always impressive on most X-Plus figures: individually sculpted teeth individually painted with super precision. It really looks like the teeth are coming up out of the gums. The inside of the mouth and tongue are painted in a reserved, un-toy-like off red. I know I keep bringing up that “un-toy-like” thing, but that’s so important. Using reserved colors make them look more lifelike and more… adult. The fiery fission patches on this new 30cm Series version are a LOT brighter than I was expecting. SIZEIt’s BIG. At 12.875 inches tall, this new figure is a little tall for the series and it can easily see over the heads of most of the other figures. Yet it still fits in well with the rest of the series. Be prepared to be blown away by its size and mass (and its weight, too!) FOOTPRINT / ON THE SHELF It’s over 20 and a quarter inches long from nose to tail. You can take away a couple of inches if you go by toes to tail. Its tail has only slight curves on the X-axis which makes it reach nearly straight back making this one a definite shelf hog. If your shelves aren’t at least 18 inches deep, you have to place this guy down at an angle. SIZE COMPARISONS The Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 is taller than the 30cm Series Godzilla 1954, which was the tallest for years. But, the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 2014 Roaring Version is still the reigning height champion; it beats the new ’95 literally by a hair. A hair!  HEISEI 30’S The Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 can see over the heads of all other 30cm Series Heisei Godzilla’s. From left to right: Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1984 (North American Diamond Reissue based on the Japanese release of the Nighttime paint scheme version), Godzilla 1989 and Godzilla 1992.  SHOWAS This new Burning Godzilla is also taller than all of the 30cm Series Showa figures. Seen here are the 30cm Series Godzilla 1962 and Godzilla 1964.  THE SAKAI’S We all know that the Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection figures are actually in some unsaid “27.5cm Series” so it’s no surprise that this extra tall 30cm X-Plus original sculpt towers over them.  HEISEI HEAVEN The 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 joins the X-Plus roster during a time where the Heisei series continues to get lots of love. On the left: last year’s release of the 30cm Series Battra Larva. On the right: the 30cm Series Space Godzilla (1994), which has been out for quite a while but can look the new Burning Godzilla right in the eye, and still wins out when it comes to bulk. And there’s more on the way. The Toho 30cm Series Mechagodzilla II (1993) has just been announced (4/2017). Your Heisei shelf is about to get crowded. That’s a good thing.  BURNING G’S Here is the new 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 beside the Large Monster Series version which came out in September 2015. Keep in mind that both figures are on the tall side for each of their series and that the Large Monster Series version is about a “head” taller than most other figures in that line. 
If, though, you are anal about scale and insist on having these two together, you could place the Big D further back in the shelf for a fake, “farther-away-look” which would explain the inaccurate scaling. ….know what I mean?  FIRE HAZZARD Here are all of X-Plus’ modern Burning Godzilla pieces including the Large Monster Series version (left) and the Gigantic Series (center). In the front, stands the S.H.MonsterArts version.  COMPARISON WITH RECENT RELEASES If you’re new to X-Plus and have been jumping on the recent releases: here’s a size comparison for you. Left to right: 30cm Series Godzilla 2004, Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla (Standard) and the Large Monster Series Titanosaurus.  REAL WORLD COMPARISON Don’t have any X-Plus yet? Here’s a real world comparison with something you probably have on hand: the Godzilla vs. Destoroyah Blu ray. RIC BOY EXCLUSIVE The RIC Boy exclusive version of this figure comes with a mini, 1/6 scale Oxygen Destroyer. This is the third time the oxygen destroyer was offered as an extra. The first came in a closed state, all clean and new as seen in the movie that started it all. It came with the 30cm Series Godzilla 1954 monochrome version.  A dark and grungy open version was offered with the very first release of the Gigantic Series Godzilla 1995. This version comes in a slightly opened state. It’s metal skin comes with a chrome-plated “look” and it’s “glass” is tinted green. It’s meant to match the image of the Oxygen Destroyer in the computer generated opening sequence of Godzilla vs. Destoroyah. Like the two previous versions which came before it, it’s made of ABS plastic and employs real metal in the four rods. RIC Exclusive versions can be purchased only directly from X-Plus. If you order yours from any other store, you won’t be getting this mini replica. SUMMARY The Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1995 vinyl figure by X-Plus totally blew me away. I’ve been wishing X-Plus would make this one for a long time now. And now that it’s in front of me, it does not disappoint. It came out a lot better than I expected it would. I’m really, really happy with it. It’s a fantastic take on the ’95 suit and it’s extra height and heft are great bonuses. To me, it’s (almost) perfect. If you have your eye on this figure, look for one NOW. You will LOVE it. Based on the way things have been going, it’s very likely it will be reissued for North America (through Diamond Distributors) at some point. But, who knows when and how long you’d have to wait? MORE INFORMATION
X-TRAS   By John Stanowski Originally posted April 28th, 2017 on Kaiju Addicts.
 FIGURE SPECS東宝30シリーズ 「ラドン（1964版）」 JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: 2012 DIAMOND REISSUE: JUNE 2016 SERIES: TOHO 30CM SERIES MATERIAL: VINYL FROM: “GHIDORAH, THE THREE-HEADED MONSTER” (1964) 三大怪獣 地球最大の決戦. HEIGHT: 12.25 INCHES / 31 CM WIDTH: (WING TIP TO WING TIP) 23.75 INCHES / 60.3 CM REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI The Toho 30cm Series Rodan 1964 vinyl figure by X-Plus really does look like it literally flew out of the movie and onto your shelf. It’s based on Rodan’s second film appearance as seen in Ghidorah, The Three-Headed Monster, 三大怪獣 地球最大の決戦 (1964). What makes this a monster of a figure is its nearly two-foot-long wingspan. It stands in perfect scale with his buddy, the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1964. And it is a marvel of sculpting, texture and paint. It was originally released in Japan way back in 2012. It was reissued for the North American market (through Diamond Distributors) in June 2016 as the Godzilla Kaiju 12in Series Rodan 1964 giving collectors who missed out another chance at grabbing this amazing vinyl. This review was made with the 2016 North American (Diamond) Reissue. THE BOX Rodan’s monster of a box is 24″x15.5″x6.5″. Shipping should always be a consideration when ordering this figure since its box is two feet long. Place that in a shipping box and you’ve got a large shipping bill. But I think the treasure you get to open on a very big Box Day is more than worth it!  The box flips open to reveal the figure, fully assembled, seated in an open plastic tray. You’ll have to remove some wire ties to free it. Before you do, just check the tips of both wings to first make sure the paint didn’t get scuffed in transit. SCULPT The sculpt of the Toho 30cm Series Rodan 1964 by X-Plus is a marvel. Not only does it reproduce a miniature mirror image of the suit used in Ghidorah: The Three-Headed Monster, but it’s attention to small details is astounding. I suppose the feature that stands out the most is the expert reproduction of the creases and folds in the wings. If you watch the movie with this figure in front of you, I’m sure you’ll agree that it’s a dead ringer for the suit. But keep in mind there were 2 Rodans in that film: the suit and a flying puppet which unfortunately didn’t match up perfectly with the former. This figure is based on the suit.  The detail in texture continues on the back with a rough surface sculpted into the upper wings and upper back.  The head sculpt looks perfect from every angle.  Here’s a closer look at that rough texture in the upper wings and back.  And those individually sculpted chest spikes don’t fail at drawing the eye. The Toho 30cm Series Rodan 1964 really does look like it literally flew out of the movie and onto your shelf. POSE Nothing fancy going on here and that’s just as it should be. Just a standard Rodan pose. This guy is looking forward with both wings spread full out to each side, just like the movie. JOINTS & SEAMS This figure has no articulated joints and, as far as I can tell, is made up of ten pieces. It comes completely assembled and the meeting places of all ten of its parts are practically invisible. I think it’s a good idea to know where these pieces are so that when you pick it up, you’ll know if you’re tugging on a glue seam or not. The head and neck are one piece, and it’s connection to the main body is practically invisible. The two horns atop the head are separate pieces. The main body runs from the shoulders, down to the knees. It does not extend to the wings. The wings are attached and glued right up on the sides of the main body. While no seams can be detected from the front, you can certainly see them from the back. The back usually faces the wall, so no problem there. Each wing comes in two pieces and the connections occur right down the middle. You probably want to avoid grabbing this figure by the head/neck or by a wing. The feet are attached and glued right at the knees. These seams are completely camouflaged by the creases in the sculpt. Overall, this figure ranks pretty high when it comes to hiding its seams. PAINT JOB For a mass produced figure, the paint job on this figure is Top Notch! Rodan has a base color of a dark, warm brown with only occasional super subtle highlights here and there. What makes this presentation is the reddish, light brown on the front and back of the wings which are expertly feathered into the brown near the “arms” at the top. In addition, a slighter darker light brown dances around the various crinkles and folds in the wing membrane. And this looks FANTASTIC! Islands of contrasting color detail spring up on Rodan’s horns, beak, claws, toes and individually painted chest spikes. The gradations of color from bony white to brown on the horns and beak looks amazing. And, most impressively, they did not skimp out on the “toes”. They could have just quickly feathered the bone white of the toes to the brown in the feet, but instead took the time to feather it from light bone to dark bone on just the toes themselves. There is a distinct change to brown matching the sculpt where the skin begins. Just fantastic work. This Rodan scales perfectly with the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1964. Each figure looks fantastic on its own. But when you get these together, it’s awesome overload. SIZE The Toho 30cm Series Rodan is BIG. At twelve and a quarter inches tall, it’s not much taller than any other figure in the 30cm Series. But it’s nearly two-foot wingspan makes him wider than three figures in a row. Because of this, it has a LOT of “presence”. FOOTPRINT / ON THE SHELFAgain, that two-foot wingspan! Rodan takes up less than 5 inches from front to back. But those wings make it take up the space of three figures side by side. It would be a good idea to place this figure near the rear of your shelf, allowing one or even two other neighbors to stand in front of the wings. This idea gets even better when you consider that other figures could help prevent Rodan from a tumble later one. See the Caution section for more on that. SIZE COMPARISONS The very first size comparison needs to be, without a doubt, Rodan’s buddy from Ghidorah, The Three-Headed Monster. This Rodan scales perfectly with the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1964. Each figure looks fantastic on its own. But when you get these together, it’s awesome overload.  Here is a size comparison of Rodan with other figures which were licensed for North America early in 2016. Keep in mind that Rodan in the rear and so may appear smaller than it would be in a side by side comparison. Shown are (left to right): Baragon 1965, Anguirus 1968, Gigan 1972 and Titanosaurus. All four of these figures were originally released in Japan as part of the Toho 30cm Series and reissued in North America (through Diamond) as the Godzilla Kaiju 12in Series. Same thing / different series name. Point is, if you jumped on the chance to get these reissues early last year, this group here represents what you could have accomplished. RIC BOY EXCLUSIVEThe original 2012 RIC Boy release of this figure came with mini Flying Rodan figure which you can see below. The North American (Diamond) Reissue did not come with this extra piece.  CAUTIONUnfortunately, this figure is prone to falling. This is a sad possibility with any X-Plus vinyl with skinny legs. When the temperature is higher, the vinyl gets softer and the feet and ankles tends to give under the figure’s weight. You should take care to keep Rodan near the back of the shelf when placed up high. This usually isn’t a problem since that’s where he needs to be anyway because of his large wings. Keep in mind that this figure is so perfectly balanced that it is able to stand on its own without any help from the wings. In fact, the tips of both wings are well over the ground. The key here is prevention. I’ve found the best thing you could do to keep Rodan on his feet, is to place him directly behind a sturdy shelf buddy.  By chance, the Toho 30cm Series Baragon 1965 makes an absolutely perfect shelf buddy. You can slip Baragon’s tail under Rodan’s wing (near the body). There is more than enough room for this. Then slide Baragon back until his back is touching Rodan’s wing. Don’t leave any space there. If you leave space, you’re still allowing Rodan to slowly lean forward. By making contact with the two figures, you are preventing any warping in Rodan’s feet from happening in the first place.  The same thing can be accomplished with the Toho 30cm Series Gigan 1972. There is more than enough room for his tail to reach under Rodan’s wing.  If you’re hurting for space, you could use both. This Rodan ain’t goin’ anywhere! BUT WHAT ABOUT GODZILLA 1964? At first I didn’t think using the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1964 would even work. I thought his tail was just too large and I never even thought to try it. Well, what the hell, I tried it and it DOES work! You can have both 1964 figures “locked” together in such a way that Rodan is completely supported. The one problem is that you are limited to a very specific arrangement. And it’s this:  This is the only way Rodan’s wing will fit over Godzilla’s tail. So, no face-off here. They’re on the same team, standing shoulder to shoulder staring down King Ghidorah. What’s good about it is that the one curve under the wing almost seems to lock into place. You have to “find” this spot. Make sure while you maneuver the figures, that Rodan’s feet are flat on the floor. Also, luckily, one of Godzilla’s dorsal fins should meet Rodan’s wing for even more support. If you want to give this a go, here are some close-ups of how I did it:
SUMMARYThe Toho 30cm Series Rodan 1964 vinyl figure by X-Plus really is an amazing collectible. The sculpt is super accurate to the suit used in Ghidorah: The Three-Headed Monster and it makes for the perfect companion piece to the 30cm Series Godzilla 1964. It also adds a lot of variety to your shelves with it’s near two-foot wingspan. The details and textures in the sculpt are stellar as are the reserved and realistic paint applications. I really don’t know why I waited so long to grab this figure. Thanks to X-Plus and Diamond, I was able to pick one up at a great price. I really can’t imagine having this figure around now that I have it. The figure has tons of presence and makes for a literally “big” Box Day! MORE INFORMATIONX-TRASNOTE: From here down, photos may be sweetened in Photoshop to over dramatize the figure a bit beyond reality.       By John Stanowski Originally posted March 12th, 2017 on Kaiju Addicts.
 FIGURE SPECS東宝30CMシリーズ 「ゴジラ（1992版） JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: 2011 NORTH AMERICAN REISSUE (DIAMOND): NOVEMBER 2016 SERIES: TOHO 30CM SERIES MATERIAL: VINYL FROM: “GODZILLA VS. MOTHRA” (1992) ゴジラVSモスラ HEIGHT (HEAD): 12.125 INCHES / 30.79 CM WIDTH: (TOE TO TOE) 9.25 INCHES / 23.49 CM APPROX. LENGTH: 16 INCHES / 40.6 CM FIGURE WEIGHT: 1 LBS, 6 OZ / 623 G ARTICULATION: NONE REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI GODZILLA: TM & © TOHO CO.,LTD. The Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1992 is based on the Heisei film, Godzilla vs. Mothra. X-Plus first released this figure in 2011, very early on in the modern run of accurate vinyls which had a slow start around 2009. This was X-Plus’ very first Heisei Godzilla figure in the 30cm Series. I had to dish out $500 for this figure in the aftermarket back in 2013. But new collectors will get a way better deal than I did. Five years after this figure’s debut, it’s set to be re-issued for the first time, but only for the North American market. Sorry, Japan! Diamond Distributors will release it in late November 2016. It has a suggested retail price of only $160. But you will find retailers selling it for less. (You lucky bastards.) This figure is known for not having the most accurate sculpt, but it does have other stellar qualities instead. THE BOX Like all 30cm Series figures, this figure arrives in a no frills, garage kit style, brown box. A separate, color cover is glued onto the lid. BIG BOX This box is very noticeably larger than the usual 30cm Series box. In fact, it’s so big, you could open it and put a standard 30cm Series box inside it and have room to spare. Keep in mind that shipping is going to be just a little bit higher for this one. DIAMOND REISSUE The Diamond Reissue box will look the same with the one exception of the PX Exclusive logo added to the cover art. ADDING THE TAIL When you first remove the figure from the box, you’ll find that the tail is separate and must be attached by you. Use a hairdryer on the hole on the body to make the vinyl soft. You’ll want to give this one an extra blast of heat because the tail hole is up high and the figure’s legs may get in your way. It’s been three years since I had to assemble mine and I really don’t remember how easy or difficult it was. SCULPT And there it is. The Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1992 may have a couple of accuracy issues, but holy shit, does that thing look good. I’ve always considered it a good all around, general representative of the Heisei series. I just like damn near everything about it. This sculpt exudes a strong sense of “power” while at the same time seeming relaxed and unimpressed by any rockets, missiles or maser beams headed its way.  The two main features which seem off to me are the face and the neck. All of the details seem to be in the right places as far as I can tell. Yet, still, the face seems not quite accurate from certain views. The front and front 3/4 angles seem… okay but that snout appears a little fat from the side view. I don’t know. I’m not an expert that knows every nook and cranny of every suit so I really shouldn’t be talking about this. Look the photos and judge for yourself. Now, putting aside an overreaching need for picture perfect accuracy, this portrait just screams Heisei Godzilla and is a good all around representative of that series. And it looks pretty badass. The horizontal “ribbing” on the neck flanked by two vertical tendons (?) are right for this suit but the detail is a little overly pronounced. Again, not an issue to most casual collectors. TEETH The signature double rows of teeth are really done really, really well here. Each tooth is individually sculpted as they should be for such a pricey figure. And the tongue isn’t simply a raised part of the lower jaw but it also individually sculpted and glued in. Even though it lays flat over the floor of the mouth, it’s still clearly a separate piece with incredible detailing. Also, you may not notice right away, but the roof of the mouth has waves of articulate ridges. Incredible work. This is why I collect X-Plus.  I hate to be repetitive, but for the benefit of those seeing X-Plus for the first time: the skin texturing in the sculpt is nothing short of incredible. It’s like they gave separate attention to every single “tree bark” groove, bump, crease and fold.  As usual, X-Plus focuses a ton of attention to each and every individually sculpted dorsal fin. Their shapes, arrangement and even the occasional stray reaching too far to one side like wayward teeth are faithfully reproduced in this sculpt.  The attention to fin detail runs down the back, over the tail joint and runs all the way down the tail. This sculpt exudes a strong sense of “power” while at the same time seeming relaxed and unimpressed by any rockets, missiles or maser beams headed its way. POSEThis figure looks GREAT from almost any angle. The side and quarter angle views are particularly cool as f**k! I’m not crazy about the front on view but I usually never am, with any of the figures. But that’s just me.
JOINTS & SEAMS[ A joint is where two pieces connect and have not been glued and can still move. Tails are joints even though they are not intended to articulate. A seam is a meeting of two different pieces which have been glued and painted over yet can still be seen. ] This figure is made up of at least 8 different parts. Yet, it reveals virtually no seams at all. The arms attach to the figure right above the biceps. A noticeable “crease” can be seen here, luckily, the actual suit also had these creases. Both lower legs attach to the figure below each knee, but you wouldn’t know it by how it looks. I had to look very hard to even find a seam. The back piece which has the dorsal fins is expertly fitted and attached. No sign of a connection at the back of the lower jaw either. It’s only at the tail joint where any line can be easily seen. And even there, the seam is hidden in the sculpted ridges of the tail. It also helps that the connection is up high on the figure and has both legs helping to shield it from view. Five Stars for hiding virtually any evidence of its assembly! PAINT JOBI am using the original 2011 release of this figure so, future proud Diamond Reissue owners, take note: it’s been 5 years. Your newer figure may have slight paint differences. As for this original: The figure has the usual, reserved, dusty, realistic, off black. No toyish, shiny blacks here. There are very, very subtle highlights over the feet, chest and neck. And while not a paint application, the figure’s rough skin is a virtual playground for lights and shadows which help to complicate it’s appearance, in a good way.  The dorsal fins are painted with what I consider to be too stark of a white. Often, with dorsal fins, claws and teeth, X-Plus will use colors which are too bright to be overly realistic. And in the case of this Godzilla 1992 figure, they’re even brighter. Despite this, the application is excellent. The tips of the fins are all white, with the off black skin color filling the flank of each fin, and feathering up to the base of each fin spike. Multiple rows of minor fins (more bumps) traverse the tail and are, again, expertly painted. The whites may be too white, but they are well done. This is still a high end vinyl collectible for sure. CLAWS The figure’s 16 claws are painted in a dark, off tan which is only slightly glossy. Be careful with these, the paint on X-Plus toes is easy to scrape. It’s an expensive figure and should be treated as such.  MOUTH The mouth has a base of a very unsaturated, off pink and completely avoids looking gaudy like lesser vinyl lines. Each individually sculpted to tooth is individually painted in an off white. The result is fucking incredible, especially with this guys double row of teeth. This kind of attention has always been one of X-Plus’ biggest selling points. EYES Each eye has a large, black pupil surrounded by a yellow iris. To say that they’re piercing is almost an understatement. This figure looks GREAT from almost any angle. The side and quarter angle views are particularly cool as f**k! FOOTPRINT / ON THE SHELF The X-Plus 30cm Series Godzilla 1992 is a little over 12 inches tall and about 16 inches long. It takes up pretty much the same room as most 30cm Series Godzilla figures. The end of the tail curves hard to the figure’s right making it easier to fit the figure on the shelf. SIZE COMPARISONS THE ’92’S Here is the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1992 beside the Toho 30cm Series Battra Larva, also from 1992’s Godzilla vs. Mothra. But, wait. Godzilla fan and X-Plus collector, Jessica Etchells, had told me that all of the water scenes during the Heisei series used the suits from the directly previous film. That means the battle at sea with Battra was done with the Godzilla 1991 suit!  And here is the 30cm Godzilla 1992 with the only other Heisei villain in the whole of the 30cm Series, the Toho 30cm Series Space Godzilla (1994).  Here is a size comparison with the ’92’s closest X-Plus relative, the Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1989. (I’m not including the Sakai series as blood relatives since they’re so much smaller, but a comparison with the Sakai ’91 is coming up). For the longest time, if you wanted X-Plus 30cm Series Heisei Godzilla figures in your collection, these two were all you could get. That’s since changed with the arrival of Godzilla 1984. Aren’t we about due for another?  THE GODZILLAS A size comparison with other Toho 30cm Series Godzillas: Godzilla 2014, 1984 (1985), 1999 (2000) and 2004. Every one of the figures in the photo above will be re-issued in North America (Diamond Reissues). One will come out each month starting now thru Summer 2017.  RECENT RELEASES Here is the 30cm Series Godzilla 1992 surrounded by X-Plus Kaiju recently released in Japan and in North America. (Left to right): Titanosaurus, Rodan 1964, Mechagodzilla (Kiryu) 2003, Mechagodzilla 1975 and Gigan 2004.  The final size comparison which needs to be made is with the upcoming Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 1992. They represent the same suit after all. Unfortunately we can’t make that comparison because the figure hasn’t even been made yet. So, here to stand in for the new ’92 is the Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 1991. You can bet the new ’92’s height will be comparable to this one. As a bonus, the pose on the new ’92 is almost the same as this ’91. I still don’t understand why X-Plus is including these new Yuji Sakai vinyls in the 30cm Series when they’re so short. But what they lack in height they more than make up for in accuracy. (I just keep them displayed separately.) SUMMARYThe Toho 30cm Series Godzilla 1992 is one of the few Heisei entries in the series. While a few details push it the bottom of that short list when it comes to being completely movie accurate, its size and sense of power has no match. There will be a lot of comparisons when the Yuji Sakai version comes out. Despite what will be said, this figure will always have to look down to see the Sakai. It has an amazing sculpt, pose and paint apps (despite the fins being a bit too stark). And when you get the larger than usual X-Plus box in the mail, you’ll have to fight the urge to bow to this king. MORE INFORMATIONX-TRAS    By John Stanowski Originally posted November 12th, 2016 on Kaiju Addicts.
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Author/AboutJohn Stanowski
Owner/Blogger of Kaiju Addicts, a premiere X-Plus and figure related website. Kaiju Addicts is a guide to collecting X-Plus Godzilla/Kaiju vinyls. It is site that is a web portal featuring all things X-Plus including his own written figure reviews, news, release schedules as well as content from other collectors and reviewers. Kaiju Addicts Reviews and Original photos by John Stanowski, do not copy and reuse without permission. Photos are NOT to be used for selling. Kaiju Addicts also posts content from other reviewers and user submitted photos which are copyrighted by their owners and can not be copied without permission. All articles on this page are
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