Chouseishin Gransazer Magi Arts Sazer Tarius

 Chouseishin Gransazer was quite an anomaly among tokusatsu series during the early to mid-2000s. Before the Japanese entertainment industry largely consolidated the genre around Super Sentai and Kamen Rider, there were several unique outliers, with Gransazer being one of the most notable. Its premise was particularly fascinating: a large ensemble of heroes themed around the Western zodiac constellations. In many ways, it felt like Super Sentai blended with the mythological flavor of Saint Seiya.

Following the release of the modest Plamatea plastic model kit of the main protagonist, Sazer Tarius, the character is now receiving a fully articulated action figure from Magi Arts. Scheduled for release in October 2026, the figure will be sold for 8,800 yen.

For a non-Bandai action figure, the asking price is surprisingly affordable. This appears to reflect Magi Arts' commitment to supporting the franchise with an extensive lineup of releases. Based on the promotional images, I would not expect the quality of Sazer Tarius to differ significantly from what collectors have come to expect from the SHF lineup.

While I do not remember much about the Gransazer series itself, I still appreciate its ambitious and unconventional approach to the tokusatsu genre. Even as someone who is not a dedicated tokusatsu fan, I am tempted to pick up this rendition of Sazer Tarius. Not only is he the main protagonist, but he also represents the Sagittarius constellation, which happens to be my own zodiac sign. As such, he would make a fitting addition alongside my Saint Cloth Myth Sagittarius Aiolos and other related collectibles.

Warhammer 40k Joytoy 1/18 Vulkan He’stan

 

One might be slightly disappointed that this release isn’t the Primarch Vulkan himself, but it remains an excellent addition to the Salamanders faction. Among the recent wave of named Space Marine elite releases in Joytoy Warhammer 40k portfolio, Vulkan He’stan joins the lineup. Scheduled for release in August 2026, the JoyToy 1/18 scale Vulkan He’stan will retail for around 75 USD.

Sharing the name of the Salamanders’ Primarch, Vulkan He’stan is a former 4th Company Captain who was elevated to the rank of Forgefather, one of the most prestigious positions within the Chapter. In this role, he is entrusted with recovering the relics of Primarch Vulkan, a sacred duty tied to the hope of the Primarch’s eventual return. Through this quest, He’stan has recovered several of Vulkan’s relics, most notably the Spear of Vulkan.

Vulkan He’stan is arguably one of the most striking Salamanders Space Marine figures released by JoyToy to date. Given his prestigious role, he comes equipped with impressive wargear such as the Spear of Vulkan, making him a standout centerpiece for any Salamanders collection and a fitting addition while awaiting the eventual release of Primarch Vulkan.

I’m very likely to pick this one up, especially since I already have Adrax Agatone and Salamanders remain one of my favorite Space Marine Chapters.

Hokuto No Ken SHF Kenshiro

 

After many manufacturers have taken a shot at this legendary series, Tamashii Nations has finally joined the world of Fist of the North Star. As expected, the first release is none other than the invincible successor of Hokuto Shinken himself, Kenshiro, arriving as an SHF action figure. Scheduled for release in November 2026, SHF Kenshiro will retail for 9,500 yen.

SHF Kenshiro comes with accessories similar to previous Kenshiro figures. Since he is primarily a martial artist character, the essentials are expressive faceplates and multiple hand variants. However, this version seems to lean more heavily into fierce and aggressive facial expressions, helping it stand apart from earlier releases. For collectors who missed previous Kenshiro figures, this SHF release looks like an excellent alternative. While it may not necessarily become the definitive rendition of Kenshiro, the SHF line remains a dependable middle-ground option in terms of quality, articulation, and affordability.

Given the enduring popularity of Fist of the North Star, it would not be surprising to see other iconic characters especially Raoh receive their own SHF releases in the future.

Warhammer 40k Joytoy 1/18 Salamanders Assault Intercessors Sergeant Krajax Review

Another action figure from my JoyToy 40k collection makes its way to the review table, and this time it’s the Assault Intercessor Sergeant, squad leader of a Space Marine unit. I might not have made it obvious before, but Salamanders are actually one of my favorite Space Marine chapters. Their reputation for being among the most humane of the Imperium’s superhuman warriors really stands out. In the grimdark darkness of the far future, having even a shred of decency and compassion toward humanity is a rare and underappreciated trait.

The Salamanders Assault Intercessor comes with relatively basic accessories, featuring a Thunder Hammer and a mini-flamer as its main armament. For a Space Marine sergeant especially an assault variant, I would have expected additional survivability options, such as a storm shield, which feels like a missed opportunity by JoyToy. That said, Salamanders are one of those chapters I’m always willing to invest a bit more in for my collection, so it would have been nice to see a “tankier” weapon loadout included

Into the fire, Unto the anvil!

Final Fight Storm Collectibles Mike Haggar

 

Final Fight finally gets some long-overdue love from the premium action figure market, and leading the charge is none other than Metro City’s strongest mayor himself. Mike Haggar joins the lineup from Storm Collectibles, bringing his classic arcade presence into roughly 1/12 scale form. Scheduled for Q4 2026, this figure is priced at around 75 USD.

Haggar is one of the core playable characters in the Final Fight series, appearing throughout its main entries as the towering former pro wrestler turned mayor of Metro City. When the Mad Gear Gang kidnaps his daughter Jessica, he takes the law into his own hands, beating the criminal organization down personally. In gameplay terms, Haggar is the archetypal power character: slow, heavy, and brutally effective, built around grapples, throws, and pure physical dominance. Even if you usually gravitate toward faster characters like Guy or Cody, Haggar remains one of the most satisfying picks simply because nothing beats piling-driving gang members across the screen.

As expected from Storm Collectibles, this Mike Haggar figure delivers strong sculpt work and articulation, staying faithful to his arcade-era design. The package also includes a solid range of accessories that go beyond standard figure releases, including props that let you recreate key in-game moments such as the time bomb game-over scenario.

Overall, this is shaping up to be one of the strongest pieces of Final Fight merchandise to date. If Storm Collectibles continues this line properly, a follow-up with Cody seems almost inevitable, and a Guy release preferably based on his Alpha 3 design at some point and would complete the core trio in a very satisfying way.

Tenku Senki Shurato Yolopark AMK Pro Karura-O Reiga

After Yasha-O Gai, Yolopark returns once again to the Shurato series, this time bringing the Hachibushu Karura-O Reiga into its AMK Pro lineup. With this release, Yolopark moves one step closer to completing a full lineup from Tenku Senki Shurato. The AMK Pro Karura-O Reiga is scheduled for a Q3 2026 release and will retail at approximately 65 USD.

In the Shurato series, Reiga is one of the more flamboyant members of the Hachibushu, a group of devoted warriors empowered by Shakti to protect Lady Vishnu and Tenkūkai. Despite his playful and lighthearted demeanor, Reiga is still a fully capable warrior who fights with seriousness when the situation demands it. He wields the Shakti known as Karura-O, derived from the mythological Garuda, the divine mount of Lord Vishnu in Hindu mythology. Compared to other Hachibushu members, Karura-O Reiga stands out for his wider range of techniques, particularly through his twin-ring chakram weapons.

As with previous releases, I expect Yolopark to deliver strong quality with Karura-O Reiga, continuing the solid work seen in earlier Shurato figures. I’m also looking forward to Ten-O Hyuga, my personal favorite among the Hachibushu, even though he appears to be the last releases for Shurato protagonist lineup.

Claymore Revoltech Clare

Given the long dormancy of the IP and the fact that Claymore was never one of the biggest shonen hits, I honestly did not expect Kaiyodo to revisit the series through their Revoltech lineup. For the initial release, they are naturally starting with the main heroine, Clare. Scheduled for release in November 2026, Revoltech Clare will retail for 9,000 yen SRP.

In the world of Claymore, pale-featured young women enhanced with superhuman abilities are tasked with hunting man-eating demons. These warriors, known as Claymores, operate under a mysterious organization that controls their existence. The story follows Clare, who is considered one of the weakest among them. Despite her limitations, she eventually becomes one of the most important figures in the dark and brutal world of Claymore.

Perhaps it is just a coincidence that Kaiyodo decided to revisit this dormant franchise around the same time I re-read the series last November, but it is still a very welcome surprise. Claymore never really received a strong line of merchandise despite being a solid grimdark fantasy series with a dedicated fanbase. Unfortunately, the manga’s later pacing issues and the anime adaptation’s divergence from the original ending prevented it from reaching the same mainstream success as some of its contemporaries.

What makes this announcement even more exciting is that Kaiyodo is not stopping with Clare alone, as they are also releasing Theresa in the same Revoltech lineup. It genuinely feels like the company has regained some creative momentum lately, with their recent releases showing far more variety and ambition. With renewed interest in the franchise, perhaps there is even a chance for a proper Claymore anime reboot someday, especially considering the late-2000s adaptation never covered the manga’s actual finale.

Warhammer 40k Joytoy 1/18 Imperial Fist MkIII Breacher Squad Sergeant

 

Among my sizable Joytoy 40K collection, this is the first time I’m reviewing a Horus Heresy–related figure on an individual basis. Although the Imperial Fists have never particularly stood out to me, I somehow ended up with a fairly large collection from this First Founding chapter. From that lineup, I’ve decided to take a closer look at the Mk III Breacher Squad Sergeant from the Horus Heresy era.

By the time Joytoy began producing figures from the Horus Heresy setting, their overall product quality had noticeably improved. This Mk III Sergeant, in particular, has fewer playability issues, especially when it comes to swapping parts when compared to earlier releases. While it may appear to be one of the more generic Joytoy 40K figures at first glance, the Breacher Sergeant comes with a solid selection of weapon accessories, making it a good value for its price.

The Mk III Space Marine armor is one of the most iconic designs associated with the Horus Heresy period. Known for its reinforced plating, this armor pattern offers enhanced defensive capabilities at the cost of reduced mobility. Even so, it suits the Imperial Fists perfectly, given their specialization in siege warfare and fortified combat, particularly in their bitter rivalry with the Iron Warriors.

Trails in the Sky Revoltech Estelle Bright

 

 Kaiyodo has been especially active with its anime portfolio lately through the Revoltech lineup. Not long after Adol Christin from Ys joined the series, Estelle Bright, the main heroine of Trails in the Sky, quickly followed reuniting the Ys vs. Kiseki duo once again. Scheduled for release in December 2026, Revoltech Estelle Bright will retail for 11,000 yen.

This Revoltech release clearly coincides with renewed attention on Trails in the Sky, especially with Good Smile Company also contributing its share of merchandise. While the accessories are largely similar to her Nendoroid counterpart, it’s worth noting that this marks Estelle’s first 1/12 scale action figure—long overdue for the lead heroine of one of Nihon Falcom’s most beloved JRPG series. There’s also a good chance that Joshua Bright will follow to accompany her.

I’ve been wanting to get back into the Trails series myself, but with a growing backlog, I still need to figure out where I can fit the time in.

Snail Shell RPG-EX 06 Adventurer Snail

 

This might be my first post covering products from Snail Shell, but I’ve been following their releases from the sidelines for quite some time. While their lineup often leans into more risqué territory, their craftsmanship consistently stands out as top-tier. Their latest addition to the RPG series has now arrived: the RPG-EX06 “Adventurer Snail.” Slated for a Q4 2026 release, this figure will retail for 448 RMB.

Girls Frontline 2 Exilium Animester 1/12 HK416 Speed Star

 

One of the most anticipated Girls’ Frontline collectibles is finally up for preorder: the HK416 “Klukai” action figure. Based on her GFL2 Speedstar skin, this “golden child” of the franchise brings something fresh to the table in Animester’s latest rendition. Notably, this will be the only Klukai figure so far to feature her signature futuristic motorbike from Girls’ Frontline 2, though the bike itself will be sold separately as a model kit. Both are scheduled for Q3 2026, with the Animester Klukai figure priced at 299 RMB and the motorbike at 238 RMB.

Warhammer 40k Joytoy 1/18 Primarch Corvus Corax

 

 Following the release of Jaghatai Khan earlier this year, Joytoy has unveiled another Primarch for its growing Warhammer 40K lineup. This time, it’s none other than Corvus Corax of the Raven Guard joining the fray. Scheduled for a June 2026 release, the Primarch Corvus Corax figure will retail for $120.

It’s been around three years since Joytoy began producing Primarchs for their 40K series, which remains the standout tier of the lineup. Corvus Corax is almost certain to meet expectations, and one particularly welcome feature is his detachable winged backpack, making it much easier to display him alongside his brothers without taking up excessive space.

With Corax’s arrival, only five Primarchs remain to receive action figure rendition by Joytoy: Fulgrim, Ferrus Manus, Vulkan, Konrad Curze, and Lorgar Aurelian. Personally, Fulgrim, Vulkan, and Curze are must-haves, but based on Joytoy’s past release patterns, Lorgar seems like a likely next candidate—especially given his history with Corax.

In the Warhammer 40K universe, Corvus Corax is one of the more reserved Primarchs, a trait that carries over into his combat doctrine and that of the Raven Guard. Known for their guerrilla warfare tactics, they specialize in precise decapitation strikes delivered either with lightning speed or near-perfect stealth. While Corax may not be the most prominent Primarch, his wargear looks particularly impressive in Joytoy’s rendition, offering more playability and weapon options compared to many of his brothers.

Warhammer 40k Joytoy 1/18 Kappic Eagle Tempestus Scion I Review

 

Another addition from my Joytoy collection that I recently had the chance to review. During its limited run a couple of years ago, Joytoy built a respectable portfolio for the Astra Militarum faction, including the Tempestus Scions. For this elite subfaction of the Imperium, Joytoy chose the Kappic Eagles as their representative unit. Beyond being some of the finest baseline human soldiers in the Warhammer 40K setting, the Kappic Eagles are especially known for their precision airdrop assaults and surgical strike capabilities.

The first Kappic Eagles Tempestus figure I reviewed is the standard Tempestus Scion trooper, equipped with a hot-shot lasgun. As part of an elite Militarum unit, these “hot-shot” weapons deliver significantly more stopping power than those used by regular guardsmen, well-suited to the high-risk operations Tempestus Scions are deployed into, and in some cases even capable of bringing down Space Marines with concentrated fire.

Joytoy’s rendition of the Tempestus Scion is excellent in terms of sculpt and overall presence, though it does fall short in modularity. This makes posing the figure a bit more effortful than expected. Even so, it remains one of the better Astra Militarum action figure interpretations in recent years—especially considering Joytoy’s slower output amid the ongoing global situation.

Hoping that I do have opportunity to review my Kappic Eagle kill team in the future.

Zeta Gundam Robot Spirits Super Gundam Anime Ver

 

Something has been making me wonder lately: why did Bandai decide to make their new Robot Spirits release for Zeta Gundam less accessible? Zeta Gundam was one of the most successful mainstream Gundam series, helping cement the franchise’s longevity over several decades. Yet, it seems Bandai now considers the series “a thing of the past,” as the Robot Spirits lineup for Zeta Gundam has become largely P-Bandai exclusive, including the recent Super Gundam entry. Scheduled for September 2026, the Robot Spirits Super Gundam Anime Ver will be sold for 14,000 yen.

While the Gundam Mk-II was available as a regular Tamashii Nation release, the same cannot be said for Super Gundam, even the G-Defensor is locked behind P-Bandai. What makes the Robot Spirits Super Gundam stand out is that it showcases the true tactical flexibility of the G-Defensor on the Mk-II, rather than just being a simple weapon backpack as Gundam video games usually portray it—often because it is relegated to a support character’s unit.

Personally, I wouldn’t mind picking up some Zeta Gundam Robot Spirits if the price is right, and I’m actually eyeing the Marasai, which I hope will get a regular release.

Metal Gear Solid 3 Revoltech Naked Snake Sneaking Suit ver

 

With the release of the Metal Gear Solid 3: Snake Eater remake last year, it was only a matter of time before new merchandise followed for one of the most beloved entries in the Metal Gear series. This time, we’re getting a new collectible for Big Boss courtesy of Kaiyodo. Naked Snake better known as Big Boss is receiving the Revoltech treatment based on his appearance in MGS3, specifically his Sneaking Suit outfit. Scheduled for release in February 2027, the Revoltech Naked Snake Sneaking Suit Ver. will retail for 11,000 yen.

This version of Naked Snake comes equipped with a solid assault loadout fitting for Big Boss. Accessories include an AK-47 assault rifle, a silenced pistol, and a combat knife for recreating his iconic CQC moments. The figure also features a face sculpt depicting Snake before he receives his iconic eyepatch, reflecting his appearance during the early events of MGS3.

Personally, Big Boss has always been my favorite character from the Metal Gear series, much like many other fans, thanks to his charisma and legendary achievements within the MGS universe. Given that prototypes for characters like Revolver Ocelot and The Boss have been circulating for some time, there’s a good chance Kaiyodo will follow up with them in the future.

That said, I still hope we’ll eventually see the return of a Peace Walker-era Big Boss figure someday as well.

Megaman X Hiya Toys 1/12 Falcon Armor X

Hiyatoys is moving fast with the Megaman X series. After announcing releases for X and Zero, the third entry in their Megaman X action figure lineup is none other than X in Falcon Armor! Falcon Armor is undoubtedly one of X’s most popular designs, and Hiyatoys has delivered a superb rendition. Scheduled for Q1 2027, the figure will be sold for $66 USD.

What makes Hiyatoys’ Falcon Armor particularly special is that it is based on the Megaman X6 version and comes with the Z-Saber. Many recent figures of X’s Falcon Armor are based on the X5 design, but Hiyatoys took a different approach, showing that they truly understand the IP they are working with and certainly deserve attention for it.

Falcon Armor itself holds a unique place in the Megaman X series because apart from its sleek design, it is the armor that granted X the greatest freedom of movement. With its additional wings, X can fly long distances, avoid hazards, and even deal minor damage to enemies on collision thanks to the flight barrier. It’s a shame that X6 nerfed this ability, portraying the armor as battle-damaged, but visually it remains one of the most iconic armors in X’s arsenal.

I’ve always had a personal attachment to Falcon Armor, ever since owning Bandai’s early 2000s toy rendition. It left a lasting impression on me, and it may even become a subject for a future post in my Vintage Toys series.

Warhammer 40k Joytoy - 1/18 Ultramarine w/ Assault Cannon Review

I’m slowly clearing the backlog of my JoyToy collection reviews, though at this pace it doesn’t seem like it will end anytime soon. This time, I’m taking a look at one of my Space Marine Terminators: the Ultramarines Terminator with Assault Cannon.

The Terminator Armor series is one of the stronger entries in JoyToy’s Warhammer 40K lineup in terms of overall value. Thanks to the characteristically bulky design of Terminator armor, limitations in articulation are far less noticeable. The heavy proportions actually work in the figure’s favor, making it feel solid and imposing rather than restricted.

On the battlefield, the Assault Cannon variant provides invaluable fire support for a Terminator squad. Terminators are essentially heavy juggernauts, frontline units that carve their way forward through sheer durability rather than mobility. In open combat, the Assault Cannon’s high rate of fire is devastating, easily mowing down lightly armored threats in a role somewhat comparable to a Heavy Bolter.

In the Space Hulk card game I own, however, the Assault Cannon Terminator isn’t always the optimal choice against Genestealers. Mechanically, it functions like a Bolter unit with triple attack dice. In theory, that means it can eliminate up to three Genestealers in a lucky roll but with 50% odds, it can just as easily backfire. It’s powerful, but far from foolproof.

Hopefully, I’ll be able to complete my First Founding Terminator collection eventually, just as I did with my Intercessor Marines. At the moment, I am still weighing my options for the Raven Guard and Space Wolves Terminator Candidate , so the hunt continues.

Animester x Bilibili 1/12 22 & 33 Action Figure Set

Some rather unusual offerings from Animester: an action figure set dedicated to Bilibili! While this platform might not be well-known outside China, Bilibili is a major social media platform in China specializing in anime and pop culture. Its influence is strong enough for the hobby industry to release tribute products. Animester is presenting action figures for the Bilibili mascots 22 & 33, featuring a futuristic theme simply dubbed Bainianji (拜年记), or the CNY anniversary version. Scheduled for Q4 2026, the figures will be available in several options: Action Figure only for 348 RMB, Action Figure & Motorcycle set for 528 RMB, and the full 22 & 33 set for 1056 RMB.

This is definitely a premium product from the Chinese hobby industry — hobby figures over 500 RMB are still rare in China. Given the unusually high price, it’s unlikely these products will reach many overseas collectors, even if the quality is unquestionable. Personally, the futuristic motorcycle rider caught my attention, though the price is beyond my budget.

This isn’t the first time I’ve encountered Bilibili mascot crossovers. The Final Gear series previously featured a collaboration unit with Bilibili 22 & 33: a Bomber mecha, a heavily modified CN-exclusive grunt unit. If Bilibili and the Chinese hobby industry continue to thrive, I expect we’ll see more products for 22 & 33 in the future.

As a parting gift, here’s a reference for the Bilibili 22 & 33 crossover unit in Final Gear.

Shurato Yolopark AMK Pro Yasha O Gai

The third Yolopark AMK Pro release for Shurato is here! After Ryoma received his turn last time, this one is reserved for the antagonist side: Yasha O Gai. While fans are still waiting for the protagonist Hachibushu, Yolopark made the right move by reuniting Shurato’s best friend and rival so quickly. Scheduled for Q2 2026, AMK Pro Yasha O Gai will retail for $60 USD.

Yasha O Gai was Shurato’s childhood friend and martial arts partner before they were transported into Tenkukai. Later, Shurato discovered that Yasha had been kidnapped by another entity and turned evil. Among the Hachibushu, Gai is the only one who remains antagonistic until the end of the series, when he ultimately sacrifices his power to Shurato, allowing him to wield God Brahma’s power. While Shurato is a flawed adaptation of Hindu lore, Yasha O Gai still serves as a strong and memorable antagonist.

Like Ryoma, Gai comes with two body frames: one for his casual outfit and another for his armored form. While KidsLogic released a rendition of Yasha O Gai years ago, Yolopark is the clear choice for the best playability. Even if it doesn’t feature the die-cast armor gimmick of the SCM line, Yolopark delivers superior articulation and quality, making it feel more like a proper action figure.

Warhammer 40k Joytoy - 1/18 Allarus Custodian Osyr Archimaxes

I’m finally back to posting Joytoy Warhammer 40k reviews now that I’ve settled into my new place and I’m kicking things off with a figure from the Adeptus Custodes! I’ve never been a Custodes person, but I somehow keep accumulating them as part of my Joytoy 40k collection. The figure in this review is my first Custodes model from Joytoy: the Allarus Custodian.

Originally, I only planned to get one Custodes figure to represent Kitten from the Text-to-Speech 40k fan series. However, my first Custodian ended up being the Allarus Custodian with Power Axe. Instead of the iconic “banana-head” look, this model represents the Terminator Armor equivalent of the Adeptus Custodes, a tankier version of the Imperium’s most elite protectors.

As with many Joytoy Warhammer 40k figures, the sculpt on the Allarus Custodian is excellent, just as you’d expect. However, don’t expect great playability from this one. Like many of Joytoy’s bulkier figures, it suffers from limited articulation, which makes posing and dynamic display a bit more challenging.