東宝大怪獣シリーズ 「アンギラス（1968年版）」

JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: LATE 2012

​FIRST JAPAN REISSUE: EARLY 2015

​SECOND JAPAN REISSUE: EARLY 2018

​NORTH AMERICAN (DIAMOND) REISSUE: EXPECTED JUNE 2018

​SERIES: LARGE MONSTER SERIES

​MATERIAL: VINYL

​FROM: “DESTROY ALL MONSTERS” (1968)

​HEIGHT (HEAD): ABOUT 6 INCHES / 15.24 CM

​LENGTH: (WITH CURVED TAIL) ABOUT 14 INCHES / 35.5 CM

FIGURE WEIGHT: X LBS, X OZ / X G

​REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI

​The Toho Large Monster Series Angurius 1968 was first released in Japan in 2012. It was reissued there twice more; once in 2015 and again in early 2018. That last one was scheduled to be released this month (April 2018) and was no doubt produced at the same time as it’s fourth reissue, one for North America. One might argue they are a part of the same reissue since they were probably made at the same time. Although, we’re still waiting on word of this vinyl’s arrival here in the U.S.

So, let me be clear on this: this vinyl is coming to America any time now. You can preorder one from your local comic shop. Ask the guy behind the counter to search for it by the Diamond Distributors item code: AUG178399.

It’s because of this U.S./Canada release that I’m putting this review out now. I’ve always meant to make one, but now seems like the most appropriate time.

Also, since we may have more new X-Plus collectors here than usual, I’d like to talk about the series it comes from. It’s part of the Large Monster Series. This is the literal machine translation for its true name: the Daikaiju Series. You’ll also see it referred to as The 25cm Series (slang).

As for its size: I’ll discuss that further down in the Size and Size Comparison sections.

The Large Monster Series Anguirus 1968 vinyl figure comes in the typical Large Monster Series window box. All of these boxes have the exact same art on them. You have to rely on the figure itself (behind the clear plastic) and a small black sticker providing the name of the figure down near the bottom of the front.

Like the 30cm Series, the figure is wired into a clear plastic shell. And, you will need to attach the tail as it comes as a separate piece. Remember: keep the tail cool and hard and blast the figures butt with a hair dryer to make it soft enough to allow the tail to be inserted. Just be very careful with those individually sculpted spikes on the tail. They can hurt!

Now, out of the box, what you have is a super, movie-accurate vinyl of Anguirus as he appeared in the 1968 Showa classic, Destroy All Monsters.

Part of what makes this sculpt such a faithful reproduction of the original monster suit is it’s individually sculpted horns, spikes, teeth and tongue! It’s intricate and detailed skin texture finally sets this over the top when compared to average, lower-end non-stylized vinyls.

Here’s a closer look at some of those details. Individually sculpted teeth are a standard feature on all X-Plus figures. As you can see care was taken to make the tongue a separate piece and suspend it above the floor of the mouth. This is fucking outstanding work!

​The head sculpt remains faithful to the movie suit from all angles.

​As for the pose, it’s pretty standard (again, just the way I like it!). Anguirus is standing (half-standing?) on all fours in his typical fashion.

In fact, this is a good excuse to again bring up how X-Plus strives so hard to give you a sculpt so faithful to the movie. You can see in the photos below (especially the side views) how it was designed to be worn by a suit actor.

Quick refresher: Joints are the meeting of two pieces that interconnect and are free to rotate, even if the sculpt prevents doing that easily.

A seam is where two pieces meet without a full round joint. You usually see seams on the sides of the dorsal fins on Godzilla vinyls, or around lower jaws. However, the lines left behind on joints are often referred to as seams.

So, let’s just go with seams here. Yes, the Large Monster Series Anguirus has them. You’ll find them around every leg and at the base of the neck. This is very common with X-Plus “crawlers” and can be found even on this figure’s bigger 30cm Series cousin.

While this may be unsightly to some, remember that this is a vinyl. And, that’s how vinyls are traditionally made. I feel if you let yourself slip into the “vinyl figure mindset”, these seams will bother you less. Hell, just take a step back and look at the thing as a whole. This thing is fucking sexy!

While X-Plus attempts to duplicate the paint apps from the original release on subsequent reissues, there can sometimes be minor tweaks. For this review, I am using the first Japanese reissue to describe it.

Anguirus has base coat of a dull brown. One might call it a dark brown, but it’s devoid of any saturation so I will stick with “dull”. And when I say that, I mean it in a good way. Dull = reserved and ≠ toyish. This figure is far from having toyish colors.

Affecting its overall “tint” is a very generous amount of lighter color highlights over the skin on the legs, neck and belly. This kicks the visual interest up a few notches. The extra detail in hue applied to the higher elevations of the skin texture really make this thing shine.

The spikes on the back are painted a very, dull boneish, tan and it’s PERFECT. And, now here is one of the places where this figure excels. Each individually sculpted spike is individually painted, and expertly so. If you look at it from above, the back plates are dark brown and the light hues of the spikes come down to meet the back with precision. (Skip down to the photo in the “Footprint Section” to see what I’m talking about. It’s the very next pic in this review.)

I have no clue how I would paint this let alone having it done on a mass scale at a factory. Excellent work. Same goes for the paint being expertly and precisely applied to each, individual tooth.

​The Toho Large Monster Series Angurius 1968 comes from a series where typical figures, like Godzilla, stand at about 25cm or just under 10 inches tall. It’s a little difficult to appreciate this figure’s size with the dimensions I’m about to give.

For example, at the highest point, Anguirus reach up about 6 inches from the tip of his crown of horns to the floor. The dimensions you really need to look at, though, are those for length since this guy is a crawler on all fours.

It’s longest dimension is about 14.5 inches from the front left paw to the tip of the tail. But that tail is making an abrupt curve. If it were laying out straight, then this figure would have a length of something more like 20 inches! That’s about 12 inches for the tail and another 8 from the butt to the nose.

Anguirus’ curved tail makes it a lot easier to fit on the shelf. If you have it facing completely forward, then you only need about a foot of shelf space in front of the back wall. By displaying him at an angle, you can make it work on even thinner shelves.

The tail, which makes a hard right turn could possibly make it difficult to display figures nearby. But the way I see it, the curves tail makes a space to hug around another figure. The Large Monster Series Godzilla 1968 is able to stand quite close to Anguirus’ right side.

Possibly the most significant size comparison would be with the Toho 30cm Series Anguirus 1968, especially for new X-Plus collectors who have been relying on North American reissues to fill their shelves.

So, yeah. It’s smaller. But it’s supposed to be smaller. The Large Monster Series is a smaller, less expensive line. But it has excellent quality that sometimes even exceeds the quality and accuracy of the 30cm Series. You can fit more in the same space. And they are a big step up from S.H. MonsterArts and Revoltech, common gateway drugs leading to X-Plus.

​If you are looking for only one X-Plus Anguirus 1968 for your collection, then you probably want to consider the 30 since it stands half a head higher and is about 15% longer.

However, if, like me, you collect BOTH sizes, then YES, you DO need this smaller Large Monster Series Anguirus in your collection.

It’s a vital component to a complete (or partial) X-Plus Destroy All Monsters line-up on your shelves. You can’t do that with 30’s. King Ghidorah and Kumonga are not likely to get 30cm versions because of their size.

Now, here is the first real and relevant size comparison. The Large Monster Series Godzilla 1968 is the figure most likely to pair with this Anguirus. They scale with each other very well.

This Anguirus is dwarfed by the Large Monster Series King Ghidorah 1968. But he is supposed to be dwarfed. If you are a stickler for proper scaling, you’ll be pleased. This is how both were sized in relation to each other in the movie.

​Here is the Large Monster Series Anguirus with a large grouping of other figures from that series. Everything you see here scales very well with everything else.

This is a just a sample of what awaits those of you who have been, up until now, been collecting only 30cm Series figures. There are many kaiju in this series that haven’t shown up in the 30cm Series yet. And many are not likely to because they would be too large.

​Finally, for those prospective X-Plus collectors who haven’t taken the plunge yet: a real world size comparison with a blu ray disc.

​The Toho Large Monster Series Anguirus 1968 (or its upcoming North American reissue, the Godzilla Kaiju 8in Series Anguirus 1968) is an awesome, high quality, movie accurate reproduction of the kaiju suit used in the movie. It’s picture perfect sculpt and paint apps make it an excellent Anguirus collectible. And, again, it is a vital component to a complete X-Plus Destroy All Monsters lineup. It’s also a great addition to a new and growing 25cm Series collection.

If you’re not collecting the Large Monster Series and you already have the 30, then, no, you don’t need it. But, if you plan to take advantage of all the awesome 25cm Series reissues coming to the U.S. through Diamond Distributors this year (and next), then, YES, you DO need one!

By John Stanowski Originally posted April 28th, 2018 on Kaiju Addicts.

​In this second installment of a new series, Kaiju Addicts talks with Mike Ross about his X-Plus collection.

WHY DO YOU LIKE TO COLLECT X-PLUS?
You know, there are so many brands out there. My first ever Godzilla toy was the 1985 12-inch imperial figure. I eventually moved up the ranks and got myself into Bandai. I didn’t think anything could ever top Bandai when it comes to detail. Then, X-Plus came along. And, the game changed.

I am absolutely in love with the brand. X-Plus puts out the most detailed Kaiju figures out there in the current market.

WHEN AND HOW DID YOU START COLLECTING X-PLUS VINYLS?
I want to say I started collecting X-Plus in 2012, I believe. My best friend Joe Astalfa (RIP) introduced me to the line when I went over to his house one day. I was like “Wow, these things are amazing!”.

So, I went on eBay one day and started looking up X-Plus figures until I saw one that caught my eye. It was the Large Monster Series Godzilla 1971 Godzilla Ric Boy. I bought the figure, received it in the mail, and fell in love with it.

Ever since then, I’ve been buying X-Plus. No regrets.

HOW MANY VINYLS ARE IN YOUR COLLECTION?
Too many! I’m at the 100+ mark in my X-Plus collection. There will be more added into it, because the world is not enough!

WHICH X-PLUS SERIES DO YOU COLLECT? (SIZE)
Honestly, I collect each and every series: the 25cm Series, the 30 cm Series, the Gigantics — you name it. If they produce a good figure, I’m gonna buy it, no matter the size.

DO YOU HAVE A FOCUS WHEN IT COMES TO SHOWA, HEISEI, MILLENNIUM, ETC?
No, not really. I enjoy all the monsters and each era, so anything that is released I will purchase.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE FAVORITE X-PLUS VINYLS AND WHY?

​When you have so many X-Plus figures, it’s really hard to choose which ones are your most favorites. But I have to say my top three would be:

First, The Gigantic Series Shin Godzilla. This is probably my ABSOLUTE favorite in my X-Plus collection. X-Plus totally NAILED this figure! I couldn’t be any happier.

Next, the 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Godzilla 1991 Hokkaido version. The 89/91 design is my ALL TIME favorite Godzilla. So when I received this, I was utterly pleased. The pose, the eyes, everything about this figure is perfect to me.

Finally, the Large Monster Series Godzilla 1971 RIC BOY Version. What can I say? You never forget your first X-Plus!

Non-Godzilla honorable mentions: Biollante, 30cm Titanosaurus, the 30cm Series Gargantuas, and Destoroyah.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE INTERESTED IN STARTING AN X-PLUS COLLECTION?
Two things: Have space and have a good job, because these figures will kill your wallet and take up all the space in your home.

For someone who is an addict, like myself, I know first-hand what it is like to be running out of space. It seems X-Plus comes out with a new figure every month, AND Diamond is releasing the reissued figures on top of that.

The hobby is expensive, so be prepared! 🙂

SELECTED SHOTS FROM MIKE’S COLLECTION

By John Stanowski Originally posted April 27th, 2018 on Kaiju Addicts.

WHY DO YOU LIKE TO COLLECT X-PLUS?
I think it really boils down to the fact that they are willing to make figures of certain kaiju that other companies are not willing to do, like the Gargantuas, the entire Destroy All Monsters roster and much, much more.

I also love the meticulous detail that goes into each and every figure they make. They’ve had their ups and downs over the years, but I think X-Plus has been a brand that I’ve consistently been happy with since I started collecting their figures.

WHEN AND HOW DID YOU START COLLECTING X-PLUS VINYLS?
I began collecting X-Plus in the Spring of 2012. It started out from curiosity. I had just gotten back into collecting not too long before then, and I was buying figures left and right. I knew of X-Plus from over the years, but I was unaware of their newer 30cm and 25cm figure lines. I saw the 25cm Gigan 1972 in stock at Hobby Search one day and decided to give it a shot. I think it’s safe to say that the rest is history.

HOW MANY VINYLS ARE IN YOUR COLLECTION?
Hmm… Let me think. In total, with preorders included, I have at least 43 X-Plus figures in my collection. It’s funny. When I first started buying into X-Plus, I intended to stick to a small few. Oops!

WHICH X-PLUS SERIES DO YOU COLLECT? (SIZE)
I’ll buy from any series. I have no specific preference. Gigantic Series, 30cm Series, Large Monster Series, DefoReal and Tokusatsu Museum figures. As long as they make a great looking figure, I’ll buy it regardless what series it is in.

DO YOU HAVE A FOCUS WHEN IT COMES TO SHOWA, HEISEI, MILLENNIUM, ETC?
I think Showa, a bit of Millennium and anything post-2014 are my main focuses when it comes to X-Plus. Since I have plenty of S.H. MonsterArts figures from the Heisei era, my desire for X-Plus figures from that series is not so high. However, there’s always exceptions, like Biollante.

WHAT ARE YOUR TOP THREE FAVORITE X-PLUS VINYLS AND WHY?
My top three favorites have to be the Gigantic Series Shin-Godzilla, the Gigantic Series Burning Godzilla and the Toho Large Monsters Series Biollante.

They are incredible figures and add a dominating presence to one’s collection. I love them! Plus, they were all “holy grail” items for me at one time. So, I don’t think I will have the heart to part with any of them.

WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE INTERESTED IN STARTING AN X-PLUS COLLECTION?
To any budding X-Plus collector: I advise them to be very mindful with their spending. It is way too easy to become addicted to this brand. Don’t be a completist, because that would be financial suicide! Plus, it’s so easy to run out of space very quickly.

Buy what you really like. With that being said, if you do in fact have the money and space for ALL X-Plus figures, then go nuts!

By John Stanowski Originally posted April 15th, 2018 on Kaiju Addicts.

​東宝大怪獣シリーズ
「キングギドラ（2001年版）」

​JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: APRIL 2017

SERIES: TOHO LARGE MONSTER SERIES

​MATERIAL: VINYL

​FROM: “GODZILLA, MOTHRA AND KING GHIDORAH: GIANT MONSTERS ALL-OUT ATTACK” (2001)
ゴジラ・モスラ・キングギドラ 大怪獣総攻撃

​HEIGHT: 11.5 INCHES / 29.21 CM

​WINGSPAN: 23.25 INCHES / 59 CM

​LENGTH (NOSES TO TIP OF TAILS): 19.5 INCHES / 49.5 CM

​LENGTH (TOES TO TIP OF TAILS): 15.5 INCHES / 39.37 CM

​FIGURE WEIGHT: 2.375 LBS. / 1077.28 G

​REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI

​KING GHIDORAH, GODZILLA: TM & © TOHO CO.,LTD.

The Toho Large Monster Series King Ghidorah (2001) is a truly fantastic new addition to X-Plus‘ Daikaiju Series (25cm Series).

It’s very movie-accurate sculpt is based on the suit’s appearance in the 2001 film, Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack, or as we all like to call it, GMK.

This figure was up for preorder in February 2017 and later released in late April 2017. The average price for a Standard figure was about $213. The Ric Boy version (which came with a layer of glitter) sold for $266.

This monster design is a pretty significant deviation from the King Ghidorahs of old. It still, of course, has all of the familiar characteristics of the three-headed, golden dragon. But, those features have been dwarfed into a somewhat smaller monster.

I was never very fond of this new design because of the shorter necks, thinner ankles, etc. But, on the day I got this figure in front of me and saw all of the details and design intricacies that I didn’t see in the movie, I converted. I really dig this design.

For a Large Monster Series figure, the box is huge. It’s 17 inches tall, 10.25 inches on the side and a whopping 28 inches across the front.

It sports the usual monochromatic line art which all of the larger blind boxes have. Pictured here is the box for the Standard Version. The RIC version is the same but with the addition of the yellow, circular RIC sticker in one corner.

Like the new and improved packaging for the King Ghidorah 1968, this figure comes sandwiched in a firm styrofoam shell. The tail piece is stored on the outside of one of the sides.

The main body is securely stored on the inside. The figure is wrapped inside a large plastic bag. Be mindful of the spikes on the tips of the wings when you pull this bag off. Some of these spikes may have impaled the bag so be sure you don’t tug hard when removing it.

WINGS
Unlike its predecessor, the King Ghidorah 1968, this figure comes with the wings already permanently attached. This is a welcome change since the wings on the ’68 can sometimes pop out when handling the figure.

TAIL
The tails come as a separate piece which you must connect. But, check this out: the usual “suction cup” and hole approach is out the window. Instead, you just touch the tail to the body and it pops in place, held by magnets. Tail assembly has never been easier.

The tail seems, at first, to do a good job of staying in place — even when you pick the figure up. But, there’s no guarantee it won’t fall off. Swift movement, bumping the tails against another figure or wandering pets could disengage the connection. Very often when I pick the figure up and put it back down, the tail falls off because they hit the shelf before the feet did.

Also, the joint isn’t that snug and can often wiggle in place. The degree to which this happens probably varies by each figure.

This connection does do its job when the figure is simply standing on the shelf. But it could come tumbling off when the figure is handled. If this bothers you, a dab of superglue on the butt might do the trick.

​And here it is.

The Toho Large Monster Series King Ghidorah 2001 is a f**king WORK OF ART.

It has a fantastic, movie-accurate sculpt. And on top of that, jaw-dropping fine details and truly stellar paint apps.

The official X-Plus photos really don’t do this figure’s good looks justice. You have to see it in front of you to truly appreciate all it has to offer.

SCALES
One of the first things you notice is the incredible, intricate work done on the scale texture. Literally each and every one of them is sculpted to appear as if they were actually individual pieces. The tips are raised, often with space under them. Like I said in my Ghidorah ’68 review, no idea how they pulled this guy out of the mold. This is just amazing work.

SPIKES
A series of fine individually sculpted spikes run down the backs of each neck. (They’re pretty pointy and can hurt if you grab them.)

I was surprised to see what these spikes do next. After running down each neck, they grow and form three toothy ridges on the figure’s back. This detail isn’t really visible in the movie; at least, not that I can recall. So, this X-Plus figure gave me a bonus lesson on the details of the suit.

WINGS
The wings look great and seem to match what’s in the movie. There’s a lot less going on in the wing membrane wrinkle department compared to the 1968 suit and figure. This can make them seem a little plain, especially to someone who has had the ’68 on their shelf for the past year or so. But the 2001 wings are smaller and so their digits are closer together creating adequate visual interest.

Each digit runs through the membrane and ends with a spike. You’ll have to be very careful with these since they can be snapped off rather easily. Not so much because they are overly fragile, but more because they’re at the ends of this figure’s widespread wings. Imagine opening an umbrella while standing in a closet. The spikes on your umbrella are going to hit something for sure. So always keep this in mind when picking this figure up.

As for their material, I assume they are made of ABS plastic just like King Ghidorah 1968 and both Mothra’s. X-Plus’ website says the body and tail are made of PVC but doesn’t mention the wings at all.

​HEADS
The head sculpts with their stubby snouts look accurate enough. And there’s a lot going on on each one. The bumps and wrinkles on the top of each head make one think of a snarling dog, making this guy a little bit meaner than he came off as in the movie. All three sets of three horns match the suit well and are in good proportion. The three-pronged bony plates (whiskers?) on the sides of the heads is very accurate when compared with photos.

Each mouth is filled with individually sculpted teeth. And, rather than simply being a cheap bump on the bottom of the mouth, each tongue is also individually sculpted. X-Plus does not skimp!

TAILS
Each tail has just as much intricacy and detail as does the front of the figure. The same attention to detail for each scale runs all the way down to each flared club of spikes at the ends. Also impressive is the way the sculptor accurately captured the way a foam and rubber tail would crease when it’s bent. Truly fantastic attention to detail here.

​The Toho Large Monster Series King Ghidorah 2001 Version is posed in a standard, museum stance which accurately depicts the limited mobility of the suit and avoids any artistic exaggeration of movement.

The “personality” of position for each head is done exceptionally well. When you look at it, you could almost see the exact awkward puppeteering of each head bobbing up and down making them come off lighter in weight than they should.

All of this, combined with the excellent sculpt, make this figure even more a dead ringer for the real thing.

​Super-detailed scales always make joints prone to noticeable gaps and, unfortunately, this new Ghidorah is no exception. The biggest offender on this figure is the tail joint.

The scales on this joint do fit together well across the joint. The problem is, though, that the tail does not have a super snug fit. This leaves a nasty gap. See the gap in the photo above? That can be closed, but another gap opens on the other side. It’s like the inside of the tail, where the magnets are, isn’t completely flat.

As I mentioned earlier in this review, though, not all figures seem to be the same so yours may look better.

Either way, this joint is in the back of the figure and you’re not likely to see it when your figure is standing on your shelf.

There is a line of lifted scales at the base of each neck where each connection is made. These aren’t very noticeable though unless the light hits them in a very specific way. They usually not noticed in casual viewing.

​The Toho Large Monster Series King Ghidorah already has so much going for it. And on top of that it has five star paint work.

It’s base coat is comprised of a metallic gold which isn’t too shiny nor too dull. It has a sort of dirty gold quality to it. Even without any added shadows or highlights, it would still look fantastic because of the way light interacts with the color as well as the intricate details on the scale texture.

But fantastic isn’t enough because X-Plus added dark brown shadowing in the creases on the main body and a sort of bronze along all of the spike on the back of the necks down to the tips of the tails.

As is the norm with X-Plus’ paint applications, this figure has a reserved, deep red inside the mouth and the individually sculpted teeth are individually painted.

Once again, I’m stunned by the quality of the work done on the eyes. King Ghidorah’s eyes are straight red and outlined in black with black pupils. Even though the irises are so large, care was taken to still add white to the tiny, tiny space remaining.

​The Large Monster Series (Daikaiju Series) usually makes one think of figures reaching up only to ten inches at best small enough almost to stand on your hand. But now and then comes a figure so big that it looks like it belongs to the 30cm Series. The Toho Large Monster Series is on of those.

Part of the reason is this figure really is scaled larger than most of the other figures in the line. All of the vinyls based on the MM28 GMK kits are. This oversizing isn’t new. The Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla Fourth Form, Godzilla 1995 and Destoroyah are all too big for the line they’re in. (Though not large enough for the 30cm Series).

If this bothers you, just look at it the way I do: There’s a secret scale in between the two lines averaging 27.5cm for a Godzilla. I just try to keep them separate as if they were their own line. Bonus is, the entirety of the 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection is also in this range.

This King Ghidorah requires more room than usual. Probably the most significant thing you’ll need to deal with is the wingspan which is a little over 23 inches!

Next, the twin tails reach straight back. Sorry, there are no shelf-friendly curls to help you squeeze him closer to the wall on the shelf. They reach back 15 and a half inches from the front toes. Make that 19.5 inches if you go by the tips of the tails to the tips of the noses. But those heads really aren’t a part of this figures footprint since they don’t come into contact with the shelf.

To sum up: this larger-than-usual figure reaches out with limbs and such in all four directions making it a certified shelf hog. But, as I’ve been saying for years now… it’s a good problem to have. This thing is big and beautiful.

THE GUARDIANS OF EARTH
As many of you already know, the Toho Large Monster Series King Ghidorah 2001 by X-Plus uses a sculpt from the MonsterMaker 28 (MM28) resin kit. The recently released Favorite Sculptors Line Large Monster Series Mothra 2001 and Baragon 2001 set are also from MM28 kits. All three are meant to scale with each other.

Origins aside, here’s a size comparison of all three. King Ghidorah may look too big for the bunch, but it is as it should be. Both Mothra and Baragon were shorties in 2001’s Godzilla, Mothra and King Ghidorah: Giant Monsters All-Out Attack.

Also resurrected from MM28, the Favorite Sculptors Line Large Monster Series Godzilla 2001 will be released soon, so you’ll be able to own a complete GMK kaiju line-up.

WITH GODZILLA 2001 FIGURES
The Favorite Sculptors Line Godzilla 2001 mentioned above isn’t your only option for pairing with this King Ghidorah. On the left is the Large Monster Series Godzilla 2001 (review) which came out eight (!) years ago. It scales fairly well with KG. They are, after all, from the same line. But, it is a tad under in height compared to the Favorite Sculptors line version.

On the right is the Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 2001 (review) which you are more likely to already have on your shelf since it’s a more recent release and has also been reissued in North America through Diamond Distributors.

This one is technically part of the 30cm Series. However, as we all know, all of the figures in the Yuji Sakai Modeling collection are too short for that line. Seeing as how this Sakai figure is the same height as the upcoming Favorite Sculptors Line version, it scales just fine with this King Ghidorah.

KING GHIDORAH 1968
Here’s a size comparison with the KG that started the current rush of Ghidorahs we’ve been getting from X-Plus, the Toho Large Monster Series King Ghidorah 1968 (review). You can see more of this figure at my review at the last link. And, you can still grab one from me at Flossie’s, too.

WITH SHOWA LARGE MONSTER SERIES FIGURES
Here is a comparison with other 25cm Series figures: (left to right) Large Monster Series Godzilla 1968 (my first review!), Godzilla 1966, Mechagodzilla 1975 and Jet Jaguar (review).

​WITH REAL WORLD OBJECT
Don’t have any X-Plus figures yet? Here’s a size comparison with a blu-ray disc to give you an idea of how “big” it is.

​A RIC exclusive version of this figure was available to purchase direct from X-Plus. It’s extra feature was a spattering of glitter which I assume was to reproduce King Ghidorah’s look after a dying Mothra transferred all of her life energy into the beaten and inanimate dragon.

It’s likely that this detail isn’t photographed easily as you can see in the above Standard / Ric side-by-side photo provided by collector, Jim Cirronella.

The Toho Large Monster Series King Ghidorah 2001 vinyl figure by X-Plus has a fantastic, movie-accurate sculpt, a dazzling spread of seemingly individually sculpted scales, an insanely awesome paint job (which you really do need to see in person to fully appreciate) and an amazing “presence” on the shelf.

The one (big) downside is a tail overly willing to disconnect and fall off during handling. This isn’t a problem, though, when it’s just standing on your shelf looking pretty. And, it is one helluva beaut!

Overall, this vinyl really is a knock out. I feel it’s probably the best Large Monster Series vinyl of 2017, and also a contender for best X-Plus vinyl overall for 2017.

By John Stanowski Originally posted March 4th, 2018​ on Kaiju Addicts.

Kyle Yount from the KaijuCast sat down to a video conference with Gee Okamoto, the man in charge of X-Plus‘ vinyl department, and presented him with questions gathered from the X-Plus Kaiju Collectors Facebook Group.

And WOAH! did he get some very interesting answers! Watch the video to see what’s going on with Frankenstein, King Kong, the anime Godzilla, some upcoming Gigantic Series figures — that are NOT Godzillas! — and a lot more.

If you aren’t already listening to Kyle’s KaijuCast podcast, get tuned in at KaijuCast.com. It’s also available on iTunes.

By John Stanowski Originally posted January 26th, 2018 on Kaiju Addicts.

Today at Super Festival in Japan, X-Plus showcased painted prototypes of their upcoming Star Wars Holochess figures. These were first revealed in 2017 (although this is the first time I’m reporting about them here on KaijuAddicts.com).

All eight creatures from the holographic chess game (Dejarik) as seen onboard the Millennium Falcon in the original Star Wars (1977) will be made available from X-Plus.

X-Plus seems to have had access to detailed images of each character. These materials are still somewhat fresh since each creature was recreated at Phil Tippet Studios for their encore appearance in Star Wars: The Force Awakens (2015).

The original rubber puppets had degraded over the past 40 years. But Phil and his team were able to scan them using a process called photogrammetry to create accurate new 3D models which were then 3D printed, cast, and molded in silicone to be animated, again by hand, for the new trilogy. An original armature used for “Mr. Big” (that guy in the lower right of the photo) was used to scale the new puppets to the same size as those made in the 70’s.

This process no doubt provided more than ample source material for X-Plus to recreate them, yet again, in vinyl.

​These new vinyls are not 1:1 scale as seen in the movies but, instead, appear to be nearer the size of the actual puppets.

According to the placards on the table, X-Plus will release two a month starting in April and ending in July. You can see the order in which they’ll be released in the photo. The top right and lower right are expected to be released in April. Then, going right to left, the next two. Then the next two, etc.

No word on price yet. But since we’re looking at an April release, pre-orders (along with more information) should be coming around fairly soon.

Let’s hope that this new direction or X-Plus is successful. Who knows? Perhaps this could prompt them to pursue a line of proper Star Wars creatures like TaunTauns, Dewbacks, Wampa Ice Creatures and Rancors. Can you freaking imagine that? Fingers crossed!

​By John Stanowski Originally posted January 7th, 2018​ on Kaiju Addicts.

​大怪獣シリーズ ウルトラマン編 「油獣 ペスター」

​JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: MARCH 2010

​JAPAN WONDER FESTIVAL SOFT VERSION: JULY 2011

​SERIES: LARGE MONSTER SERIES

​MATERIAL: VINYL

​FROM: “ULTRAMAN” (1966-1967)
ウルトラマン

​HEIGHT: 9.5 INCHES / 24.13 CM

​WIDTH: (HAND TO HAND) 13.25 INCHES / 33.6 CM

​DEPTH (FRONT TO BACK): ABOUT 3 INCHES / 7.62 CM

​REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI

​PESTAR: © TSUBURAYA PRODUCTIONS

The Large Monster Series Pestar vinyl figure by X-Plus was released in early 2010. It was later reissued as a Wonder Festival exclusive soft version in July 2011.

It’s based on the oil-eating menace, Pestar which was featured in episode 13 (titled Oil S.O.S. / オイルSOS) of the original Ultraman television series which first aired in 1966.

This interesting monster was unique in that the suit required two actors to move it’s many “limbs”.

X-Plus has done an amazing job reproducing this kaiju in vinyl for the starry-eyed collector.

The Large Monster Series Pestar comes packaged in a wider than usual window box but with the usual Ultraman box art. The design is a little retro and I just know that if my 8-year-old self ever got to see this box, I would probably burst with excitement. At least Big John gets to have one!

The figure is saddled into a form-fitting plastic shell and tied securely in place with the same wires as other X-Plus releases.

You’ll note the long, thin, black sticker on the lower right corner of the window. This sticker indicates that this is a RIC Exclusive version. (More on that later!)

The Large Monster Series Pestar by X-Plus has an incredibly screen accurate sculpt which faithfully reproduces the giant oil-eating double-starfish from Ultraman’s very first year on screen.

​Even those unfamiliar with this kaiju can appreciate the level of detail in the sculpt depicting the radiating ridges reaching out from the monsters two stomachs. The tendency of this suit to fold and buckle is also captured very well. Together, these two details do well to separate this high-end collectible from mere toys.

The tiny head sculpt, three-quarters of an inch wide and two inches from ear tip to ear tip is done remarkably well. When I look at it, I can almost see it move; quivering as it gulps up the barrels of oil from the episode. When that happens, you know they got it right!

One thing which X-Plus did not do correctly is the appearance of the surface of both stomachs. Those are the light bluish-greenish patches in the center of each “star”.

In the show, these areas were puffy and smooth; almost like inflated pool toys. Yet the figure sports a dramatic, rocky texture far more dramatic than the actual suit had.

I think this actually makes the figure look more impressive even though it does noticeably deviate from being screen accurate.

And, check this out! The back texture is a marvel of detail. I actually never realized that Pestar’s back looked like this until I got my hands on this figure.

While it may seem easy enough to sculpt by merely etching the patterned grooves, note that each shape is individually sculpted into a bevel. This must have been a laborious process for the one who sculpted it. Judging by how well it was done, it must have been a labor of love.

​X-Plus opted for a museum pose for this figure. It stands with both hands spread out to the sides as was frequently seen in the episode. But it was just as frequently seen bending forward and sideways, creating awkward buckles in the suit. While I’m sure X-Plus could have pulled it off a sculpt which realistically captured those buckles, I’m glad they went for this more standard — and grand — look.

​Holy hell, yes, there are seams all over this thing. Each pair of legs is a separate piece of vinyl. They join with the upper body pieces by zig-zagging along the bottom edge of each stomach. The neck is molding with the figure’s upper left side body, and finally the head is also a separate piece.

Despite these five separate pieces being joined together, you will not notice them, or even see them without looking for them.

​The paint apps on the X-Plus Pestar are a collection of primarily three reserved and unsaturated colors. But here lies the second detour from accuracy. The outer edge of each “star” is colored with a dirty, mustardy hue. The suit actually sported a lighter, more vivid yellowish color in that area. But like the rough, textured surface of the stomachs not matching the suit, this color actually looks better on the shelf.

Slits below the hands on both sides of the figure are painted a coral-like off-white with light mustard highlights drybrushed over top. You can get a look at these in the Footprint Section below.

The Large Monster Series Pestar has a profile and footprint very similar to all of X-Plus’ Rodan figures. It’s very wide, demanding twice the side space of other figures. Yet, it’s pretty slim from the side view. This figure is barely 3 inches from nose to back.

There’s no need to worry about space on the shelf though. This figure is well suited to standing at the back of the shelf behind other figures, blocking view of the back wall.

It’s overly wide shape will actually add a welcome bit of variety to your Ultra shelf.

​Here is a size comparison of the Large Monster Series Pestar and the Large Monster Series Ultraman A-Type Fighting Pose vinyl which came out came at the end of 2015.

For an accurate pairing, you’ll need an A-Type Ultraman so that it matches the episode. As for the two being in scale, it’s hard to tell. In the episode, Pestar was already downed by a Science Patrol VTOL jet and only had one exchange with Ultraman, and that was while this monster was already flat on the ground.

It’s probably safe to say that any Large Monster Series Ultraman figure will be a tad too large for a perfect fit. This is, unfortunately, how it is with the entire series. I’ve never understood why X-Plus made the Ultraman figures slightly larger than the Kaiju.

​Here is a size comparison with other Ultraman Kaiju also from the original 1966-1967 series. On the left is the Large Monster Series Gesura (which came out around Dec. 2015 – January 2016) and the Large Monster Series Gabora (I believe this may be the “Reborn” version).

​Pestar scales well with the Large Monster Series Red King Reborn Version (released in September 2011) and the original release of the Large Monster Series Bemular Reborn (from December 2010).

​If you’ve no Ultra Kaiju, here’s a comparison with the Large Monster Series Godzilla 1968 and the Large Monster Series Godzilla 1966.

​Finally a comparison with the Large Monster Series Ebirah and the Large Monster Series Titanosaurus.

Here is a real world size comparison for those who have none of the figures above. Here, Pester stands beside the Ultraman bluray set.

​The Ric Boy Exclusive version comes with a mini oil tank form the oil refinery scene. Unlike extra pieces from most of the Large Monster Series Godzilla figures, this tank is pretty much in scale with the figure itself. And that is a HUGE plus in my book.

While it looks like a simple piece, it manages to reproduce almost exactly how the tanks in the episode appeared. This tank in particular was specifically taken from the scene where Bemular shoots his fire beam at tank No. 8.

The Large Monster Series Pestar vinyl figure by X-Plus is an amazing replica of the giant double-starfish from the premiere season of the long-running series Ultraman.

Despite liberties taken with one texture and one color, it shines, and is an amazing collectible and keepsake from the series. It will look amazing with the rest of your X-Plus Ultraman collection.

By John Stanowski Originally posted December 31st, 2017​ on Kaiju Addicts.

​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 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.)

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.

​And, 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.

​Apart 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.

The 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.

​This 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 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.

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.

​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.

​A Shounen Ric Exclusive version was available with light-up fins.

​The 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).

​By John Stanowski Originally posted December 30th, 2017​ on Kaiju Addicts.

​東宝大怪獣シリーズ 「シン・ゴジラ」 STANDARD AND 少年リック限定版

​JAPAN ORIGINAL RELEASE: FIRST BATCH: LATE DECEMBER 2016, SECOND BATCH: LATE JANUARY 2017

​SERIES: LARGE MONSTER SERIES

​MATERIAL: VINYL

​FROM: “SHIN GODZILLA” (2016)

HEIGHT (STANDARD): 10.125 INCHES / 25.71 CM

​HEIGHT (RIC): 10.625 INCHES / 26.98 CM

​WIDTH: (FOOT TO FOOT) 6.375 INCHES / 16.19 CM

​LENGTH: (NOSE TO TAIL) 22.375 INCHES / 59.3 CM

​LENGTH: (TOES TO TAIL) 19.75 INCHES / 50.1 CM

FIGURE WEIGHT: 1 LBS, 7 OZ / 652 G

​REVIEW AND PHOTOS: © JOHN STANOWSKI

​The Toho Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla (東宝大怪獣シリーズ 「シン・ゴジラ」) by X-Plus is based on Godzilla’s fourth form appearance in the 2016 film, Shin Godzilla (シン・ゴジラ), also sometimes called by its earlier title, Godzilla Resurgence.

X-Plus was late to the game on this one. One by one, Shin Godzilla toys, vinyls and kits showed up from companies like Bandai, Kaiyodo and more. In the end, X-Plus came through when they revealed their version at Summer Wonder Festival in July 2016. The figure officially went up for preorder in October 2016.

There is both a Standard Version with red highlights and a RIC Exclusive version with both red and purple highlights which also came with an alternate head with the mouth sculpted wide open.

Shortly after the preorder window opened, something unexpected happened. The response to this figure was so great that they had cap orders very early and then offer a second batch.

The first batch was released in late December 2016. Second batch figures arrived in late January 2017.

I will be reviewing both versions of this figure.

The Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla comes in a tall blind box with monochromatic box art printed directed on the lid. To celebrate this significant release, the art is reversed making it stand out as something special.

The box is both taller and wider, yet thinner, than the usual Large Monster Series boxes and even the 30cm Series boxes. The extra height (to accommodate the long tail) adds extra space between the main body and the inside of the box providing more protection than usual.

Pictured here is the box for the Standard Version. You’ll know the RIC Exclusive version by spotting the round yellow RIC sticker added to the front.

The RIC version also comes in its own shipper (case), so if you see an online auction with a box with simple writing on the side, that’s a RIC.

As usual, inside the figure rests in a plastic shell in two pieces: body and tail. Both are tied in with wires. There is plenty of room between the figure and the inside of the box to keep it safe.

SEATBELTS AND BOOTIES
The main body, tail piece and in the case of RIC Boys, the alternate head are each completely wrapped in plastic so nothing is going to get rubbed the wrong way. They also used more wire ties than usual.

The main body has three wires holding it in. Make sure you untwist all of them. When I unboxed mine, I didn’t notice one wire around the foot and was confused when I tried to free it from the plastic shell. The tail piece also has three wires. If you got the RIC, the alternate head has one wire.

If you’re pretty sure you won’t be reselling, consider skipping all the aggravation of untwisting and just use a pair of wire cutters.

Each foot has plastic booties taped on very securely. You may not want to try to just pull them off because they’re wrapped securely around the ankles. Either look for the edge of the tape or try to cut them off.

ATTACHING THE TAIL
To attach, make sure the tail piece is good and firm. If it isn’t, place it in the refrigerator so that it will stiffen up. Now heat up the end of the tail already attached to the body with a blowdryer to make it soft. When you are able to squeeze the tail like it was foam, it’s time to get the rest of the tail out of the fridge and attach it. The connection is mostly round, so if you push and twist like I do, it should be fairly easy. And, there are no fins to get in your way.

​SWITCHING HEADS
If you have the RIC, then you have a second, alternate head sculpted with a wide open mouth for roaring or spewing atomic breath and ray. Right out of the box, your RIC will come with the Standard, closed-mouth head already on the figure. To switch heads, first grab a hair dryer heat the figure all around the base of the neck.

(And, DON’T tell me you don’t have a hair dryer. Single? Bald? Perfectly fine with using a towel on your head? Fine. But, you’re an X-Plus collector now. Buy the damn hairdryer already!)

After you’ve warmed and softened the neck, carefully pull the head off. If it’s not coming off, then heat it up for real this time and stop messing around. Make it squishy. Is it off yet? Okay.

Now just pop the new head on. It may help if you stick it in the fridge for a few minutes to make it hard. As you can see from the photos above, the joint isn’t round at all and has two soft “corners”. You won’t be able to twist this one on, so make sure the head is cool and stiff, and the body hole is squishy soft.

After the new head is attached, sit back and admire your work. And, if no one is around… go ahead, make a Godzilla noise.

The Toho Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla is another home run from X-Plus. It sports a fantastic, movie-accurate sculpt and they did it without any CG info. Good old fashioned sculpt by hand. Wow. Not that I would mind a figure based on CG data, but X-Plus seems to be doing just fine without it.

I mean, DAMN! Would you just look at that?

HEAD
The head sculpt looks great despite the sculptor not having a chance to “get to know” this new design with years of viewings.

It may look a little.. “sculpty” in this photo but remember this is a super close-up. The actual head is smaller than a golf ball.

THE TEETH
Holy crap! Look at those teeth! Yeah, they look a bit rounded in this pic but, again, this is a super close-up. Those teeth are super tiny. And each one is INDIVIDUALLY SCULPTED! Another fine example of X-Plus quality.

Again, the head looks just right from all angles. (I really need a new way to say that. I say the same thing in every review. But, it’s true.)

Like this new, unhingled, super wide mouth or not, X-Plus did a great job of capturing it in this vinyl.

​TEXTURE
No tree bark texture here. Shin Godzilla’s new skin reminds me of multiple layers of hardened lava with glowing red still active in the cracks. X-Plus did a fantastic job of reproducing them here.

DETAILS REVEALED IN THE FEET
The feet are sculpted to look just as they do in the movie but reveal new details we didn’t notice in the theater. A series of tiny claws break the skin on the tops of the feet like afterthoughts or rogue offshoots. This feature is in tune with Godzilla’s mixed-up new body which is following a new set of blueprints being used for the first time combining genetic building instructions from multiple animals all mashed together into one monstrosity.

This is yet another example of X-Plus giving you so much screen accuracy that you actually learn something from the figure which you may have missed from the movie.

THE TAIL
The rows of Giger-like, rib cagey, boney patterns in Shin Godzilla’s tail are expertly sculpted on the figure. This is impressive considering its girth is about as wide as your finger.

​THE FACE
In case you’re wondering: yes, “the face” is present on this figure. You can just make out what appears to be an eye socket and boney jaw on the one side of the tail.

​This figure is posed to faithfully reproduce Shin’s stance in the movie. Even the tail’s distinct personality of movement is perfectly captured.

The only possible liberty X-Plus may have taken is with the head’s slight turn to the right, no doubt to make it a little more interesting. I seem to recall that this zombie-like Godzilla couldn’t even be bothered to turn his head when he wasn’t spewing radioactive fire and beams.

It could be said that truly capturing an authentic pose is just as important as getting the details in the sculpt right. X-Plus did both.

​I was a little disappointed that such a momentous release came with as many visible seams as it did. It probably couldn’t be helped, though. The sculpt sort of dictates where you can and can’t make the connections.

LEGS
The biggest offenders on this figure are just above the thighs. Usually, X-Plus takes care to make the upper legs on the same piece of vinyl as the main body. This allows them to hide joints just below the knees, usually under a bulge of Goji fat. For some reason, though, they felt they had to put them right where the legs meet the body.

There was an opportunity to hide some of this joint in the crease of the skin bumps and folds. Despite this, these lines still show.

ARMS
Other obvious seams are visible right above the biceps. The arms connect there and are not glued. There is some wiggle room available but I’m sure that wasn’t intended to be taken advantage of since there is a triangular peak at the joint making it very difficult to rotate the arms. Just leave them alone.

NECK
On the RIC, since the head can be removed and swapped, there is a line running along the base of the neck. Half of this line in concealed behind Shin’s bulging sternum. Since the Standard version does not have interchangeable heads, the joint is damn near completely hidden behind the paint (another plus for Team Standard!)

TAIL JOINT
Of course, there is a small gap where the tail attaches; there always is. This connection is placed specifically along a ridge in the sculpt; a common practice with X-Plus. But Shin’s long and heavy tail just can’t resist the pull of gravity making for a wider than usual gap on the top of the tail joint.

This problem is more common — and severe — on the RIC version since the top layer of the tail, on both sides of the joint, is made with translucent vinyl which is typically softer and weaker than regular vinyl.

The entire tail is actually made up of about four different pieces which are glued and completely concealed. You’d never know it unless you looked.

It would have been far better for the tail if the entire thing came already glued in one piece and had to be connected at the butt. There would be no gappy joint and the whole thing would have been a lot more sturdier.

Thing is, the already large Shin Godzilla box would need to be even larger to accommodate that arrangement. Also, the tail flange (suction cup) which came already attached and glued to the body is far too close to the flanges from the legs. There’s probably some congestion going on inside the main body at that point.

Finally, a particularly obnoxious gap occurs in the back of the mouth on the alternate “roaring” head which comes with the RIC. The translucent piece which serves as the interior of the mouth ends just short of reaching the roof of the mouth. Thankfully, you can’t see this from normal viewing angles.

Usually, I’m one to be put off by obvious seams, but surprisingly they’re just not bothering me that much. I’m just so happy to finally have both versions of this figure on my shelf. Also, remember, this figure is still a vinyl. And, vinyls come with lines. Most of the time, X-Plus is able to do a better job of hiding them.

I was very curious how X-Plus was going to tackle the red glows emitting from the deep cracks all over Shin Godzilla’s body. What they, and other toy makers, did is kind of ingenious.

THE STANDARD
The standard Shin Godzilla is molded completely in red vinyl. So, it was really more a matter of “not” painting the red areas to achieve the right look. When they added the black color, they were able to avoid getting it in the cracks so that the red could still be seen. The end result is very well done.

All over the main body are traces of red in the lower elevations of the sculpt. The effect is particularly awesome on the tail and back.

On the back, there is a sea of red at the base of the dorsal fins which runs all the way down the top of the tail down to the gross, crusty tip (which we’ll get to later).

There are deep reds also visible along each main fold in the tail which come and go in a sort of venetian blinds effect. When looked at from the figure’s front, the red disappears. When seen from behind, the reds become more prominent. From the side, they’re just right.

THE RIC
The main body of the RIC exclusive version is also molded in red.

But the whole back dorsal fin section, a strip along the top of the entire tail, the tip of the tail and the neck are all molded in translucent vinyl with a coat of see-through light purple sprayed on the outside. INside, these pieces are sprayed with an opaque white to help make the translucent parts brighter on the outside.

​THE BLACK
Having applied the black paint onto red vinyl gives the color a warmer-than-X-Plus-usual shade resulting in a rich black (a blacker black) giving the figure a bit of a burned look.

EYES
The tiny eyes on this thing are perfectly painted with a tiny, perfectly round dab of white. And over that, a pin point of black for the pupils. This is insane, very impressive paint detail.

The eyes on the alternate (roaring) head for the RIC are painted in a shiny, metallic silver reproducing the protective shields which appear when Godzilla fired his breath in the movie. When held near a light, they reflect a tiny point of specular reflection. Crazy awesome detail!

TEETH
The individually sculpted teeth are, of course, individually painted as well, and expertly so. A super subtle, feathered strip of the red vinyl is left near the gum area and each tiny tooth is painted a dirty, bone white.

CLAWS
Each main claw on the feet is painted a tannish, dirty white which expertly feathers into the black nearer the body. The same precision used on the teeth are used for the tiny, rogue claws splintering out behind the main claws. The same color is applied on the hand claws, but with less precision.

As usual, I find the paint apps on the claws to be far too “bright” to look accurate and/or realistic. I wish X-Plus would start making these darker.

THE TAILS
The tip of the tail on the Standard version looks truly gross and organic. The lower elevations of the boney sculpt are bright red with the higher areas of the sculpt made to appear a dirty, boney white.

It seems like they actually painted the red on rather than let the red-molded vinyl show through. Either that, or, they just applied a layer of gloss over it all.

It may look sloppy in this super close-up. But with the naked eye, the effects added with the paint look amazing.

As for that RIC tail: it gets most of its color from the translucent vinyl it’s made of. It’s tinted a light purple and there are sprays of red added, I think, from the outside. It’s not as impressive as the tip on the Standard, but does a fair job of implying a glowing tail using only the refraction of the clear vinyl and reflected light from the room.

JUST ADD LIGHT
On a related note regarding appearance, the translucent vinyl on the RIC version, and even the red vinyl from the Standard, can be made to glow with the insertion of lights inside the figure.

It’s not designed to do this, but countless X-Plus collectors have had a go at this with fantastic results.

At over 10 inches tall, this figure is significantly larger than other figures in the Large Monster Series which typically rise to only the nine and a quarter inch mark. It is the fifth figure to break the scale rule after the Large Monster Series Godzilla 1995, Destoroyah, Leatherback and Knifehead (Pacific Rim).

On the shelf, it looks more at home with the figures from the Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection (which are too short for 30’s).

Basically, if you don’t have the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla yet, and want an idea of its size: it basically comes in somewhere between the 30’s and the 25’s… and it won’t really “fit in” with either of those series. But it’s totally complimentary to the Sakai’s and the tall 25’s.

DAMN, THAT TAIL!
Shin Godzilla is 19 3/4 inches long from the toes to the tip of the tail, and over 22 1/4 inches long from the nose to the tip of the tail.

If you could unravel the tail and lay it out straight, it would be about TWO FEET LONG from the back of the legs to the tip! Thankfully, its curvy pose from the movie shortens that up a bit. Despite this, it still takes up the same space, if not more, than a 30cm Godzilla.

​LARGE MONSTER SERIES (25CM SERIES)
The Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla is significantly taller than most other figures in the Large Monster Series. If you’re a stickler for scale, you might justify it’s extra height by remembering that Shin is the tallest Godzilla so far.

With (left) Large Monster Series Godzilla 1973 and (right) Godzilla 1989.

​30CM SERIES
If you collect strictly 30’s but want to make an exception for this figure, here’s a look at how it sizes up.

(Left): 30cm Series Godzilla 1992 and 30cm Series Godzilla 1999 (2000).

YUJI SAKAI MODELING COLLECTION
Ironically, this new figure best fits in with the Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection. Those figures are known to be shorter than normal 30’s and usually average about 27.5cm.

Shin isn’t the only tall 25. The Large Monster Series Godzilla 1995 is also very tall for the line and also looks good with the Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection. The Large Monster Series Destoroyah is even large, but is in scale with the 25cm Godzilla 1995.

So, if you’re one to keep your 30’s, Sakai’s and 25’s separate on the shelf, you might want to consider adding Shin here, along with G’95 and Destoroyah to the mix.

Seen here: (left) Toho 30cm Series Yuji Sakai Modeling Collection Godzilla 1989 Osaka Landing Version and Godzilla 1991 Hokkaido Version.

​REAL WORLD COMPARISON
Here’s the new Shin with the Japanese Shin Godzilla bluray release. If you don’t already have any X-Plus figures, this disc will give you a good feel for the figure’s size.

The Toho Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla (Fourth Form) is an amazing vinyl replica of the newest Godzilla from the silver screen. It has an incredible movie-accurate sculpt and has a ton of presence despite being from X-Plus’ smaller line. The red fission glows are reproduced ingeniously and it just looks fantastic.

The figure suffers from having more seams than most other figures, and the RIC can have a noticeable gap in the tail joint. Despite this, it’s one hell of a figure.

At over 22 inches long, it’s has descent shelf “presence” and is an exciting new addition to the X-Plus line and it’s ready to get your collection up-to-date with the latest craze from Japan, Shin Godzilla.

I don’t think I’ve ever seen another X-Plus figure get this amount of attention. Just look at all of those links. There’s a wealth of second opinions, insights, etc. available from other reviewers. So, dig in.

• VIDEO: Gojira851 Reviews the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla (Standard) by X-Plus.
• VIDEO: Rich Eso Reviews the X-Plus Shin Godzilla; Standard and RIC.
• VIDEO: SymbioticLegion Unboxes and Reviews the X-Plus Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla.
• VIDEO: Heisenberg Reviews both versions of the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla by X-Plus.
• VIDEO: Wotafa/ヲタファ Reviews the X-Plus Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla Ric… and sings, too (Japanese).
• VIDEO: Leslie Chambers Reviews the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla Standard Vinyl by X-Plus.
• VIDEO: Rubi Gamingx Unboxes and Shows the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla Ric Vinyl by X-Plus.
• VIDEO: Superturtle12 Reviews the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla RIC and adds some light!
• VIDEO: Diego Doom Reviews the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla Standard version vinyl figure.
• VIDEO: GodzillaFanFreaks Reviews the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla Fourth Form vinyl figure by X-Plus.
• VIDEO: Atomic Vinyl Reviews weights the good and the bad of the Large Monster Series Shin Godzilla 4th Form.

​By John Stanowski Originally posted September 16th, 2017​ on Kaiju Addicts.

​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 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.

TAIL 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.

​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 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…

Since “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.

​The 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.

At 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.

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.

​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.

​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.

​The 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.

​By John Stanowski Originally posted September 2nd, 2017​ on Kaiju Addicts.