Gundam Converge EX31 Neue Ziel 2

An intermission before I continue my review of MS Ensemble Dendrobium. When I got my copy of Ensemble Dendrobium, I had already considered getting an equivalent adversary to put up against it, and the candidate ended up being Gundam Converge Neue Ziel 2. Since I didn’t have the budget to get Ensemble Neue Ziel, Converge Neue Ziel 2 proved to be a great substitute while also offering plenty of appeal on its own. I might not collect mobile suits from the Gundam Converge series anymore, but the mobile armors are always worth considering, especially given their excellent value for money.

Megaman X Threezero MDLX Fourth Armor X

Threezero is perhaps one of the more overlooked manufacturers of Mega Man action figures. Despite entering the franchise earlier than Hiya Toys, the company tends to receive less attention, likely because of Hiya Toys' more frequent release schedule. Threezero's latest announcement may likely also explain Hiya Toys' recent decision to skip Mega Man X4 and move directly to Mega Man X3, as the company has officially revealed its MDLX Fourth Armor X action figure. Scheduled for release in Spring 2027, the MDLX Fourth Armor X will be sold for 9,710 yen.

Compared to Hiya Toys' rendition, Threezero's version is noticeably shorter in stature but adopts the classic proportions seen in the original artwork, giving it a nostalgic appearance that longtime fans will likely appreciate. The accessories are relatively modest, but they should be more than enough for most collectors, especially considering the quality of the sculpt. One of the MDLX line's biggest selling points is its modular armor system. Collectors who already own the MDLX X can mix and match armor parts to recreate X's armor progression from Mega Man X4, adding another layer of display and customization.

Personally, this release is one that I'm looking forward to. I owned Bandai's Fourth Armor X toy when I was a kid, so this particular armor holds a lot of nostalgic value for me. It was also the armor I spent plenty of time using during my journey through the Mega Man X series, making this announcement especially meaningful.

Megaman Zero Blokees Champion Class Zero

 

The second release in Blokees' initial Mega Man lineup is the titular hero of the Mega Man Zero series, Zero. As part of the Champion Class model kit lineup, this is another long-awaited release, especially considering the series has gone nearly a decade without significant new merchandise. Released on August 2026 alongside with Starforce, Blokees Megaman Zero will be sold for 3600 Yen Japanese SRP.                             

The version Blokees chose is based on Zero's appearance in Mega Man Zero 3, as indicated by the included weapon loadout. While Zero's overall design remained largely unchanged throughout the four games, his arsenal evolved over the course of the series. This kit includes the Recoil Rod, one of his signature weapons from Mega Man Zero 3.

Compared to the Star Force kit, however, Mega Man Zero is likely to face much closer scrutiny. At a similar price point, it doesn't appear to clearly surpass Kotobukiya's long-standing Mega Man Zero model kit, which remains a strong benchmark for the character. Even so, this release is still a welcome addition after years without new merchandise for the series.

Since this is part of the Champion Class lineup, it would be great if Blokees expanded the kit in the future by offering Zero's other signature weapons as optional add-ons. That would significantly increase the display possibilities while making the kit even more appealing to fans of the series.

Invincible Mess Toys 1/12 Invincible

Invincible received a surprise action figure release from the Chinese manufacturer Mess Toys. Produced in 1/12 scale, the figure appears to be a solid offering despite not quite matching the refinement of Figma's lineup. Scheduled for release in October 2026, the figure is sold for USD 40.

In terms of quality, the figure is expected to be comparable to Hasbro's typical entry-level 1/12 scale action figures. Since Mark Grayson is a superhuman brawler rather than a gadget-based superhero, the accessories are relatively modest, consisting of a display stand, interchangeable hands, and three facial expressions. Even so, it serves as one of the more accessible collectibles based on the Invincible series, which remains relatively underserved in the action figure market.

Mark Grayson caught my attention for being one of the best modern examples of the classic "zero-to-hero" protagonist, being the literal embodiment the saying, "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger." He also represents a fully realized Son Gohan archetype: a son who ultimately surpasses his own father and defeats the strongest members of his race, paving the way for a better future for his own race. Although I would prefer to wait for a figure depicting Mark in his Viltrumite Emperor attire, this release is convincing enough to earn a place in my collection, especially considering its affordable price.

Chainsawman

 

Another mainstream manga that I finally managed to complete after the series concluded its run earlier this year. Chainsaw Man is a fascinating work that stands out among its peers by daring to be different and succeeding because of it.

One way to interpret Chainsaw Man is as a modern take on Devilman, expanding on many of the ideas that Go Nagai's classic only briefly explored. Set in a world where supernatural beings known as Devils terrorize humanity, the story follows Denji, a boy who forms a bond with Pochita, the Chainsaw Devil. This fateful encounter transforms his miserable life into an even harsher struggle while setting the stage for one of the most unconventional stories in modern manga.

Although Chainsaw Man is categorized as a shonen manga, its tone and artistic direction often make it feel closer to a seinen work. The author's willingness to kill characters without hesitation and subject them to brutal physical and emotional suffering creates an atmosphere that is far removed from the typical expectations of the genre. In many ways, Chainsaw Man represents the belief that great works are sometimes created through suffering—the author suffers in creating the story, the characters suffer within the story, and the readers suffer alongside them while experiencing it.

No character in Chainsaw Man is truly safe from death or tragedy. Denji himself experiences numerous horrifying situations despite ultimately surviving, and the manga constantly pushes his limits both physically and psychologically.

However, what separates Chainsaw Man from many other ultraviolent manga is that its violence is never simply violence for the sake of violence. Tatsuki Fujimoto treats extreme violence as a form of narrative currency and understands exactly when and how to spend it. Every death, injury, and moment of brutality serves a purpose, whether it is to develop characters, advance the story, or reinforce the themes the manga explores. Even when major characters appear to die suddenly or unexpectedly, those moments are not meaningless; their unpredictability is part of what gives the series its impact.

Because this currency is used carefully rather than wasted for cheap spectacle, the violence in Chainsaw Man carries genuine weight and emotional significance. The series does not rely on brutality alone to leave an impression; instead, it uses violence as a tool to create tension, tragedy, and memorable moments. This careful balance is what allows Chainsaw Man to rise above being merely another violent manga and achieve its status as one of the most distinctive mainstream works of its generation.

Chainsaw Man is undoubtedly one of the freshest mainstream manga of the past decade, comparable to Attack on Titan in its willingness to challenge conventional storytelling while still achieving widespread popularity. With its unique approach, unpredictable direction, and willingness to explore uncomfortable themes, it is a series that proves mainstream manga can still take creative risks. For anyone looking for a modern manga that refuses to follow the established formula, Chainsaw Man is well worth reading.

JRPG Talk: Fate/Stay Night and Anima Triad

Fate/Stay Night is undoubtedly one of the most enduring giants in Japanese pop culture. More than two decades after its debut, it continues to serve as the cornerstone of Type-Moon's identity. I have always found this remarkable because such longevity is uncommon for a work that began as a visual novel. Surviving for twenty years is one thing; remaining a mainstream success throughout that time is something else entirely.

So this is the question I want to pursue: what truly gives Fate/Stay Night its enduring foundation? To answer it, I will approach the series from a metaphysical perspective.

Megaman Starforce Blokees Champion Class Megaman

 

The long-awaited Mega Man lineup from Blokees has finally arrived! To kick off the series, Blokees is releasing two Mega Man model kits under its Champion Class lineup, one of which is Mega Man from Mega Man Star Force. Released in August 2026, the kit will be sold for Japanese MSRP of 3,600 yen.

Blokees' choice of characters for the debut lineup is somewhat unexpected. Rather than starting with the classic Mega Man or Mega Man X, the company opted for Star Force and Mega Man Zero. My guess is that this comes down to the licensing portfolio Blokees was able to secure from Capcom. Several other hobby manufacturers already hold licenses for portions of the Mega Man X franchise, with companies like Hiya Toys and Threezero each producing figures based on that series.

Of the two initial releases, I think Mega Man Star Force has the stronger potential. Since the character has received relatively few high-end collectibles compared to other Mega Man protagonists, the kit is less likely to face direct comparisons. The included accessories are fairly basic, but they still offer more variety than previous Star Force releases, such as the 4-Inch-Nel figure.

Hopefully, Blokees will eventually secure the license for Mega Man Battle Network (MegaMan.EXE) as well. An EXE kit would complement the Star Force lineup perfectly and would make for a great addition to the Champion Class series.

MS Ensemble EX-40 Dendrobium Gundam Review - Part 1

Finally, I managed to get this one reviewed. While I own my fair share of premium collectibles and a sizable MS Ensemble collection, this particular item represents the pinnacle of both. Throughout the several years that the MS Ensemble line has been running, Bandai has released many Premium Bandai exclusives, but Dendrobium has always stood out as the flagship release. Looking back, I have no regrets about picking one up when I did, as the aftermarket has proven just how elusive it has become, almost like finding a unicorn.

Overall, MS Ensemble Dendrobium fully justifies its premium price. It originally cost around three to four times more than the FW Gundam Converge version and essentially half the price of the HG Dendrobium. The level of playability is simply off the charts, with an impressive range of gimmicks that clearly justify its cost over Bandai's other Dendrobium releases. Despite being a candy toy, Ensemble Dendrobium is an incredibly robust product, featuring engineering level that rivals what you would typically expect from RG or even  MG Gunpla. It is easily one of the releases that elevated the MS Ensemble lineup from an already excellent series into arguably the pinnacle of Gundam candy toys. Even today, Bandai's newer candy toy lines have yet to surpass the value of MS Ensemble considering it has stuffs like Dendrobium.

If you're fortunate enough to find one in mint condition for under 25,000 yen, it's well worth considering, as prices have continued to climb over the years.

Given the amount of effort that I put into preparing this review, I've decided to split it into two parts. That way, each part can stay focused without becoming an overly long blog post.

Animester x Nuclear Gold – 1/12 Polaris Star White

 

Another Mecha Musume model kit that initially escaped my attention is the Animester × Nuclear Gold 1/12 Polaris Star White. This collaborative release stands out as another serpentine-themed Mecha Musume, but with a particularly interesting transformation gimmick. Released in Q2 2026, the kit originally sold for 248 RMB SRP.

Chinese hobby manufacturers have produced several serpent-based Mecha Musume designs, often drawing inspiration from the mythology of Fuxi and Nüwa. Polaris Star White, however, distinguishes itself with a feature that sets it apart from many of its contemporaries. In addition to its modular serpentine frame, the entire lower body can be reconfigured into a futuristic motorcycle, giving the kit a secondary vehicle mode without sacrificing its original design.

In terms of armament, Polaris Star White follows the familiar close-combat archetype shared by many of this particular variant Mecha Musume kits. It is equipped primarily with bladed weapons and a spear, emphasizing melee combat over ranged firepower.

Having missed the initial production run, I will likely have to wait for a future reissue. Given the popularity of recolor variants among Chinese model kit manufacturers, there is a good chance Polaris Star White will eventually return in an alternate color scheme.

Nikke Hemoxian 1/12 Red Hood

Chinese manufacturers are really giving the Nikke series a try. After Snail Shell, it is now Hemoxian's turn to take a shot at the franchise with a 1/12 scale Red Hood model kit. Scheduled for a Winter 2027 release, the Red Hood model kit will be sold for 268 RMB.

Hemoxian’s model kit is likely one of the more affordable Nikke products, as merchandise pricing for the series has reportedly been kept intentionally high by ShiftUp to maintain brand image. While Hemoxian is not particularly well-known for mecha musume products, they likely outsourced some experts for technical support given the abundance of such talent amid the growth of China’s hobby industry.

Red Hood herself is one of the most popular characters in the series as a legendary Nikke who received major exposure through her intertwined story with the main heroine, Rapi. My personal impression of her however is mostly shaped by her striking resemblance to Surtr from Arknights.

Gundam Seed Metal Build Meteor

As part of the Gundam Seed product release announcements by Tamashii Nations in late July, Gundam Seed fans received another big-ticket item that will surely separate the devout from the casual: the Meteor Unit for the Metal Build line. This is not the first time Tamashii Nations has made a wallet-busting move, having previously released the GN Arms, but it is still quite a sight nonetheless, especially since collectors would ideally need to obtain two of them to display with both the Freedom and Justice Gundam. Scheduled for a February 2027 release as a P-Bandai exclusive, the Metal Build Meteor will be sold for 80,000 Yen.

Mecharashi - Chapter X Clear Milestone Report

It has been about four months since I reached the final Permit Rank in Mecharashi, which subsequently unlocked the final level cap for my account. Back then, I thought everything would be smooth sailing after clearing so many absurd hurdles that Mecharashi had presented in the way of player progression.

Turns out, I was in for a rude awakening.

Demonbane Plamatea 1/12 Al Azif

A few years after the release of the Hagane Works Demonbane, this classic mecha visual novel series is getting another noteworthy new product. The gothic lolita grimoire herself, Al Azif, is returning as a 1/12 scale Plamatea action figure. Scheduled for release in April 2027, the Plamatea Al Azif will be sold for 8000 Yen.

Since the Demonbane series isn't quite prominent enough in the modern market to warrant a traditional Figma release, the Plamatea line definitely serves as a fantastic compromise. This rendition of Al Azif is based on Zanma Taisei, the original Demonbane visual novel, and comes with a plethora of accessories.

Collectors can expect Demonbane's iconic weapons to be part of this product including the Cthugha and Ithaqua dual pistols, the Scimitar of Barzai, and even the Cat Helmet used when piloting Demonbane. This figure is truly a must-have for fans who already own a Demonbane mecha figure, as no Deus Machina display is ever complete without its grimoire. It definitely makes one wonder if Daijuuji Kurou could end up getting a figure release as well following Al Azif.

Megaman X Hiyatoys 1/12 Max Armor X

HiyaToys is really moving at a breakneck pace for the Megaman series. In 2026, this is possibly the seventh release for the lineup, and shortly after the release of X's Ultimate Armor, they have decided to go backward a bit to release Max Armor rom Megaman X3. Scheduled for an Autumn 2027 release, the HiyaToys 1/12 Max Armor X will be sold for 12,500 Yen.

Max Armor is X's upgraded armor in X3. Aesthetically, it is considered a drastic shift from previous armors because it incorporates elements that make X look more heroic, particularly the V-fin on the helmet that reminds some people of Shining Gundam. Within the Megaman series, Max Armor is quite special for having an additional distinct upgrade even after the player collects the whole set, and it remains the only armor upgrade to wield the Z-Saber before X6.

While this product does not resonate with me as much as X's armor from X4 onwards, it reminds me of unsettled past debts with X3 since I never completed the game, which I might revisit in the near future with my copy of the Megaman X collection.

Shinchou Yuusha Nendoroid Ristarte Review

 

 I haven't reviewed a Nendoroid in years, despite still having dozens sitting unopened in their boxes. For my return to figure reviews, this choice might feel a little underwhelming. This time, I'll be taking a look at Nendoroid Ristarte from Shinchou Yuusha (Cautious Hero), the main heroine from an isekai anime that aired a few years ago.

This review will be fairly brief, as I'm only doing the bare minimum for Ristarte. I suppose I've lost some motivation after letting go of Aqua from my "useless goddess trio" of Nendoroids.

To me, Ristarte stands out among isekai heroines because she initially appears to be the ideal goddess assigned to guide an isekai hero, only to gradually develop an overwhelming affection for her chosen champion, Seiya. Her constant admiration and frustration with Seiya's excessively cautious nature is what kept Shinchou Yuusha going with its momentum. Although the chances of the series receiving a continuation seem slim, I wouldn't mind seeing more of their story someday.

I may give Ristarte a more complete review when I eventually cover Nendoroid Ishtar, assuming Ristarte is still part of my collection by then.