Dune (Frank Herbert Novel)

A year after watching the newest adaptation of Dune, I finally picked up Frank Herbert’s original novel, which had been sitting in my e-book reader for nearly a decade. As expected, the experience turned out to be quite different from watching the movie, but it was also much more rewarding in many ways. I decided to read it partly as personal preparation for the upcoming Dune movie and partly as my first step toward exploring the complete six-book series, which is widely regarded as one of the most influential science-fiction series of the 20th century.

Nikke Hyperbody Scarlet Black Shadow

One of the long-awaited Nikke action figures has finally arrived! It has been quite some time since Figma Scarlet was released, and at long last, her alter ego, Scarlet: Black Shadow, is getting a Hyper Body release. I think Nikke’s momentum in 2026 has slowed down quite a bit, which may explain the delay in Scarlet: Black Shadow’s release. This is quite a contrast to the breakneck momentum the franchise had in 2024 and 2025, when it was even starting to leave Mihoyo behind in terms of figure releases. Scheduled for September 2027 release, Hyper Body Scarlet: Black Shadow will be sold for 16,900 Yen.

Scarlet: Black Shadow represents Scarlet’s original persona in the Nikke series and one of the five legendary Nikkes of the Goddess Squad. In her original incarnation, Scarlet was a ruthless and highly efficient machine dedicated to taking down Raptures, wielding her signature blades with enough power to bring down even massive enemies. Seeing this version of Scarlet alongside her carefree, drunken personality in the current Nikke setting can certainly be quite amusing.

As a premium Nikke collectible, however, Hyper Body Scarlet: Black Shadow does not seem to fully capture the dynamic nature of her original incarnation. The articulation appears somewhat limited, making it difficult to recreate some of the more fluid and aggressive poses that the legendary Nikke is known for.

Interestingly, there is apparently also a Chinese model kit of Scarlet: Black Shadow in development. That could become a major point of comparison once both products are available, particularly in terms of articulation, sculpt, and overall value.

Gundam Seed Freedom Metal Robot Spirits Z’Gok

As part of the Gundam SEED campaign, Athrun Zala’s Zgok from the SEED Freedom movie is finally getting another release in the form of Metal Robot Spirits. As expected, it will be a P-Bandai exclusive and comes with additional accessories to recreate several memorable moments from the movie’s underrated MVP. Scheduled for December 2026 release, Metal Robot Spirits Zgok will be sold for 19,000 Yen.

For a 19,000 Yen P-Bandai Robot Spirits release, SEED Freedom Zgok certainly has plenty to offer. The articulation is superb, as expected from Bandai, while the effect parts are also quite well done. However, the apparent lack of modularity with Infinite Justice Gundam could be a major turn-off for some SEED fans like me, considering one of the Zgok’s biggest selling points is its modular armor concealing a Gundam underneath.

Interestingly, Bandai is also releasing the Cavalier Ifrit support unit around the same time as the MRS Zgok, priced at 17,000 Yen. This means fans who want the complete setup will have to spend 36,000 Yen in total, which puts the combination in the same general price range as some Soul of Chogokin releases.

I suppose Bandai is confident that the SEED franchise still has enough dedicated fans willing to spend that much to make the set commercially viable. Given the renewed attention toward SEED Freedom, I would not be surprised if another iteration of SEED Freedom Infinite Justice follows in the near future.

Gaogaigar Plamatea Gai Shishioh

Gaogaigar, being the most popular and final commercially released Yuusha series, has received a generous number of mecha products over the years. However, this marks the first time in a long while that the main protagonist, Gai Shishioh, has received a noteworthy product. Of all the possible product lines, Gai Shishioh has ended up being released as Plamatea. Scheduled for April 2027 release, Plamatea Gai Shishioh will be sold for 8,900 Yen.

Naturally, for the first Gai Shishioh figure in such a long time, it makes sense to start with his Cyborg Guy form from the main TV series. I suppose Evoluder Guy could follow if this product proves successful enough. I originally expected Tamashii Nations to be the first to release Gai Shishioh as an S.H.Figuarts, but Goodsmile got there first, and the end result looks quite satisfying even if the accessories are relatively limited.

Plamatea Gai Shishioh is certainly worth considering for Yuusha fans looking for a physical representation of the King of Braves protagonist to display alongside their Gaogaigar mecha, whether model kits or die-cast figures.

September-October 2026 Loot

 

Quite a wallet-busting haul this time, as I had the bad timing of several heavyweight collectibles arriving right in the middle of an unfortunate transition period for me. There were plenty of high-quality hauls across these two months, and the overall pattern remains the same: a combination of mecha model kits and plamo, with a side of waifu figures.

If I had to point out several noteworthy things from this haul, I think it is finally time for me to rein in my Kotobukiya model kit acquisitions. My backlog has piled up considerably, no matter how appealing their products continue to be, and at this point I really need to start clearing some of them before adding more.

The best of the lot is no doubt the SAMG Rex Kaiser D7, which proved to be worth far more than its price would suggest. It is also an interesting contrast to the MRS EX-S Gundam, whose SRP is only slightly lower. I think this is also my first time getting two JoyToy Primarchs in a single batch, with Jaghatai and Corax making a significant dent in my wallet.

Getting Klukai’s 1/7 Summer Figure in this batch was also pretty nice timing, since I had only recently obtained her summer skin in Exilium as well. Last but not least, I also picked up some Sluban Robot brick models, which caught my interest because they have some really cool designs, especially considering they were released long after the SMC series.

My primary worry with this haul, however, is what comes next. There is another batch of heavy hitters incoming, which is rather inconvenient considering that I am currently in the middle of transitioning to another job. Needless to say, the timing could hardly be worse for my wallet.

Fate/Grand Order Plamatea Mash Kyrielight Ortinax Black Barrel Ver

After years of Fate/Grand Order, the eggplant kouhai Mash Kyrielight has received plenty of merchandise, including several based on her Ortinax equipment. As part of the game's 11th anniversary celebration, however, Good Smile Company has unveiled what may be the definitive version of her upgraded loadout. Joining the Plamatea model kit lineup, Mash Kyrielight finally receives her Ortinax equipped with the formidable Black Barrel. Scheduled for release in April 2027, the Plamatea Mash Kyrielight Ortinax Black Barrel Ver. will be sold for 17,800 yen.

This is not the first time Mash has been depicted with the Black Barrel. Earlier in 2026, Aniplex released a ConoFig based on the same appearance. Even so, I think the Plamatea kit offers better overall value. Despite being in a similar price range, it provides full articulation and customization options that a fixed-pose figure simply cannot match.

The Ortinax Black Barrel is one of Mash's most impressive loadouts, making a memorable debut during Lostbelt No. 6 before largely fading into the background afterward. The Ortinax armor itself is also a solid mecha musume design with a nice balance of mechanical detail and character aesthetics. That said, I have mixed feelings about it because of my overwhelmingly negative gameplay experience. Mash's mandatory deployment in several Lostbelt battles often forced me to field of my strongest DPS Servants in severely gimped setup, and I never really enjoyed using her Ortinax kit due to its restrictive and self-centered playstyle.

Putting gameplay aside, this is easily one of the best Mash Kyrielight Ortinax collectibles currently available in terms of value. Considering a comparable figma release would likely be around 30,000 yen if it is ever released.

Warhammer 40k Joytoy 1/18 Master Lazarus Review

 

Given my sizable collection of JoyToy Warhammer 40K figures, I have been trying to do monthly reviews to work through my backlog. However, due to one thing or another, I somehow overlooked this commitment for the past two months. Regardless, I am making amends by ensuring I do not miss this month's slot, and the figure who happens to get the turn is Master Lazarus of the Dark Angels.

For a named Dark Angels character action figure, I managed to get Master Lazarus quite cheaply back then. These days, I would imagine spending around $50 to get a copy, given the drastic effects of inflation and price adjustments. Overall, JoyToy's Master Lazarus represents the company's mid-period Warhammer 40K releases, when they had begun refining the proportions of their Space Marines to better live up to their price point. Master Lazarus benefited from this upgraded body sculpt while still retaining a relatively affordable price.

I do not know as much about Master Lazarus compared to some of the other Dark Angels characters, but he is one of the notable Primaris representatives of this First Founding Chapter and a character who is steadily rising in prominence. I look forward to seeing this guy make another appearance when I eventually review Chapter Master Azrael.

Monster Hunter Nendoroid Rathalos

Goodsmile Company is finally returning to the Monster Hunter series after years of a dry spell. After releasing a series of Hunters in various armor sets, they have now decided to shift their focus toward the iconic monsters from the franchise, starting with none other than Rathalos. Scheduled for release in March 2027, Nendoroid Rathalos will sold for 8,900 yen.

I suppose this is partly a consequence of inflation, but this first Monster Hunter release after such a long break feels slightly pricey, especially since it is even more expensive than the DX version of the Rathalos Hunter. That said, the sculpt looks excellent, as expected from Goodsmile, and it comes with surprisingly similar gimmicks to its S.H.MonsterArts counterpart, including the ability to recreate the tail-cutting gimmick.Personally, I’ll probably skip this one since I already own the S.H.MonsterArts Rathalos. However, I wouldn’t mind picking up an Azure Rathalos version if Goodsmile ever releases one.

More importantly, I’m curious whether Rathalos is simply a one-off return to the Monster Hunter franchise or the beginning of a broader monster-focused lineup. If Goodsmile decides to expand this niche, there are certainly plenty of monsters that could make for interesting Nendoroid releases.

Zoids Adamas Machina Blade Liger

Takara Tomy rarely releases big-ticket items for the Zoids series on its own, but years after Bandai released the Liger Zero Chogokin as a joint collaboration project, it seems Takara Tomy has decided to produce a premium Zoids item of its own. Released under the Adamas Machina line, the second Zoids to receive the treatment is none other than the Blade Liger. Scheduled for March 2027, the Adamas Machina Blade Liger will be sold for 35,000 yen.

While the proportion of die-cast content has yet to be confirmed, Takara Tomy is clearly positioning the Adamas Machina Blade Liger as a high-end collectible, with the finished piece measuring over 38 cm in length. Considering Takara Tomy’s extensive experience with the Transformers franchise, I have high expectations for the overall quality and engineering.

The biggest selling point has to be the LED lighting, which is incorporated into both the cockpit and blade sections, possibly a first for a Blade Liger release. Interestingly, the pilot chosen for the Adamas Machina Blade Liger is not Van, the protagonist of the Zoids TV series, for reasons that remain unclear.

Regardless, the Adamas Machina Blade Liger is shaping up to be an exciting release for dedicated Zoids fans looking to add a premium centerpiece to their collection. I’m particularly curious whether the AB unit will be sold separately, and whether Geno Saurer or Saber Fang could become the next candidate should the Adamas Machina lineup continue.

HSR x FSN Aniplex 1/7 Saber Artoria

With the high-profile collaboration between Honkai: Star Rail and the Fate series, it was inevitable that Fate characters from the collaboration would eventually receive merchandise releases, especially with Star Rail continuing the Fate collaboration into its second year. As expected, Fate's eternal heroine, Saber Artoria, receives the first premium scale figure from this collaboration, released by Aniplex in a 1/7 scale. Scheduled for release in June 2027, Aniplex 1/7 Saber Artoria HSR version will be sold for 29,000 yen.

The HSR version of Saber Artoria offers a refreshing reinterpretation of the classic heroine, and Aniplex has certainly positioned this as a premium release for the first wave of collaboration merchandise. This figure portrays Artoria in her timeless youthful appearance with a dynamic pose, complemented by a generous amount of effect parts that enhance the overall presentation. It feels like a fitting tribute to one of the most influential and enduring heroines in Japanese pop culture.

I expect this will not be the last merchandise release from the Honkai: Star Rail x Fate collaboration. With the debut of Rin and Gilgamesh in Honkai: Star Rail, I think Rin would be a strong candidate for the next premium figure release from this collaboration.

IN ERA+ – RMD 1/100 Azure Falcon

I don’t collect IN ERA+ model kits, but their lineup has long been known for its massive, imposing designs, and their latest release seems to take that concept even further. What caught my attention with Azure Falcon is that, on top of the usual IN ERA bulk, it adds a surprising degree of refinement and elegance. Scheduled for release in Q4 2026, IN ERA+ Azure Falcon will be sold for 268 RMB.

Standing at 23 cm tall, Azure Falcon looks like one of the more impressive Chinese model kits of 2026. It features a dual-mode transformation into a futuristic jet fighter that manages to be bulky yet elegant and relatively minimalist. Unlike many Chinese model kits, it also avoids the overly spiky aesthetic, giving the design a cleaner and more cohesive appearance.

It looks like a great kit to pick up, especially at its price point, although the rising RMB exchange rate makes it less appealing for overseas buyers. The die-cast content is fairly limited, mainly consisting of the torso's internal frame.

My main concern is durability. Given the massive proportions and the fact that most of the frame is made from plastic, I’m curious whether the finished product will be able to maintain its structural integrity over time.

Fate/Grand Order Alter 1/7 Morgan Final Ascension Ver

As part of Fate/Grand Order's 11th anniversary celebration, Morgan, one of the game's most popular Servants, is receiving yet another premium scale figure. This time, industry veteran Alter has stepped in with its own interpretation, choosing to base the figure on Morgan's beautiful Final Ascension illustration rather than one of her standard in-game appearances. Scheduled for release in October 2027, the Alter 1/7 Morgan Final Ascension Ver. will be sold for 43,800 yen.

Morgan's popularity within the Fate/Grand Order community has remained remarkably strong ever since her debut. Her affectionate habit of referring to the Chaldea Master as her husband or wife quickly won over fans, making her one of the franchise's standout characters. Despite being a relatively recent Servant and arriving during a period when Fate/Grand Order merchandise has generally slowed down, she has already received more than six scale figures, which is an impressive achievement in itself.

Alter's release is by far the most expensive Morgan figure to date, but the price is backed by the manufacturer's long-standing reputation for exceptional sculpting and paintwork. I have little doubt that the final product will live up to Alter's usual standards. As the current premium option for Morgan collectors, it makes a definitive proof to show one devotion toward the fairy queen.

Personally, I still think Aniplex's Summer Morgan offers the best overall value, especially considering its price and presentation. However, Alter's interpretation is an excellent alternative for collectors who prefer Morgan as the Queen of Fairy Britain in her iconic Third Ascension outfit. As for me, I will probably wait for a future version of Morgan in a different class. Since this release likely marks the final major figure based on her original Servant form, I would love to see her receive a Saber-class rendition in the future.

Tigatoys – YH01 Tianshu

I thought Toyseasy was the only Chinese manufacturer producing fancy naval battleship-transforming robots, but another Chinese manufacturer, Tigatoys, has proven otherwise. Their upcoming YH01 Tianshu is an aircraft carrier mecha rather than a massive combiner. Scheduled for release in Q3 2026, Tianshu will be sold for 698 RMB.

Tianshu appears to be based on a light aircraft carrier, with helicopters as its primary cargo. It also comes with hovercraft and battle tanks as support vehicles, making the whole package particularly appealing as a playset.

In mecha form, Tianshu stands around 31 cm tall and has a strong Pacific Rim-inspired aesthetic. It comes equipped with two axes that can also transform into polearms, giving it a pretty imposing primary weapon setup.

The sculpt and transformation gimmicks already look impressive from what has been shown so far. Given how interesting the concept is, I wouldn’t be surprised if Tigatoys eventually expands Tianshu into a larger line of transforming naval mecha.

MS Ensemble EX-40 Dendrobium Gundam Review - Part 2

Given that MS Ensemble Dendrobium is an exceptionally rare product with a level of craftsmanship that stands out even among Bandai’s Candy Toy offerings, I felt that it deserved a second part for its review, something I rarely do for my toy reviews on this blog. 

Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory would hardly be complete without its high-adrenaline, Top Gun-inspired space combat featuring mobile suits, with Dendrobium serving as the centerpiece that makes the series so memorable. In this second part of the Ensemble Dendrobium review, I’ll try to recreate some of that spectacle and capture the spirit of those intense space battles.

Ghost in the Shell SHF Motoko Kusanagi

 

I have a feeling that 2026 marks some kind of anniversary for Ghost in the Shell, as there has been a noticeable wave of new merchandise for the franchise, particularly featuring Major Motoko Kusanagi. In August 2026, Tamashii Nations joined the celebration by announcing an S.H.Figuarts figure of the iconic cyborg. Rather than basing the figure on the more widely recognized Stand Alone Complex version, Bandai has taken a different approach by drawing inspiration from Shirow Masamune's original artwork. Scheduled for release in January 2027, S.H.Figuarts Motoko Kusanagi will be sold for 9,000 yen.

This version depicts Major Motoko in her combat suit, equipped with an SMG and visor as part of her minimalistic rapid assault gear. While the overall look is reminiscent of the mid-'90s Ghost in the Shell OVA, it also resembles much closer to Shirow Masamune's original illustrations. The vibrant color palette is a hallmark of 1990s anime aesthetics, and the included goofy facial expression captures the playful side identic with 90s pop culture.

Alongside the figure, Tamashii Nations also announced a Robot Damashii Fuchikoma, which can serve as Motoko's companion vehicle. Priced at 15,000 yen, it features a cockpit gimmick that allows the S.H.Figuarts figure to sit inside. While it is a nice addition for fans of the original manga and OVA, I personally prefer the Tachikoma design, so I will probably stick with that instead.