Fate/Grand Order KDcolle 1/7 Summer Anastasia

Here is an FGO PVC figure that I initially overlooked, but which caught my attention right around its release. Aside from her SSR Caster rendition, Anastasia actually received another PVC figure for her first ascension summer version, rendered in 1/7 scale by Kadokawa. This figure was released in July 2026 with a price tag of 25,800 Yen.

In her summer getup, Anastasia trades her former Caster class for the Archer class. Compared to her reserved demeanor in her original spirit origin, summer Anastasia adopts a much more cheerful attitude and fully embraces her prankster nature, which fits a young maiden like her quite well. Considering I have summer Anastasia at NP5 in-game, had I noticed this figure earlier when my financial circumstances were more stable, I likely would have picked up this PVC version as a replacement for the Kotobukiya rendition that I missed out on.

Monster Hunter 30MF Rathalos Hunter MH Wilds Ver

Capcom appears to be quite aggressive in marketing the Monster Hunter IP following the release of Monster Hunter Wilds, and Bandai's collaboration items have to be some of the more interesting examples! Somehow, this classic Capcom series has found its way into 30 Minutes Fantasy, which actually feels like a perfect pairing, with the Rathalos Hunter being one of the collaboration products. Scheduled for a March 2027 release, 30MF Rathalos Hunter will be sold for 4500 Yen.

Just like many previous iterations, this Rathalos Hunter incarnation will be a Blademaster equipped with a Great Sword, along with additional equipment designed to match the aesthetics of Monster Hunter Wilds. Given Bandai's track record with the 30 Minutes Fantasy line, I think this product could potentially be one of the best-value Monster Hunter action figures to come along. Apart from the Rathalos Hunter, Bandai is also releasing the 30MF Arkveld Hunter, which could make a great proxy for Ukanlos X thanks to its bulky, tundra-hunter aesthetic.

Personally, I see a lot of potential in this collaboration series, since many MH flagship monsters and their hunter armor sets could be easily represented through the 30MF lineup. The main question is whether Capcom is willing to continue licensing the Monster Hunter IP for more collaborations. If they are not too stingy with it, we could potentially see some very interesting Monster Hunter releases through this line.

Hiyatoys Megaman X 1/12 X Ultimate Armor

Hiyatoys has significantly expanded its Megaman X lineup this year. After releasing various versions of X, Zero, and Sigma, they have now delivered what can be considered an ultimate release. While X still has plenty of armor variants that could be explored, Hiyatoys decided to go straight for the Ultimate Armor as the next major milestone for the series. Scheduled for release in Q3 2027, the Hiyatoys Megaman X Ultimate Armor will be priced at 349 RMB.

Debuting in Megaman X4, the Ultimate Armor is widely regarded as one of the strongest armor sets available to X. It is essentially an upgraded version of the Force Armor/Fourth Armor, with its defining feature being the ability to use the Giga Crash without limitation. This devastating attack, which the Fourth Armor can only perform sparingly, makes almost any Maverick boss a literal cake walk.

I have fond memories of using this armor when I played Megaman X5 as a child, especially before I fully understood game balance. Looking back, the Ultimate Armor was practically the ultimate crutch, but it was also one of the most satisfying power-ups in the series.

Hiyatoys' Ultimate Armor release provides much-needed availability following a decade long void after Bandai's previous take through the D-Arts lineup. It is also a smart move considering Kotobukiya has yet to release its own version. While I would have preferred Hiyatoys to include the Z-Saber with this release, the addition of an LED function for the X-Buster is already a very appealing feature and helps make this release stand out.

Toriko

One of the most popular shonen manga of its era, Toriko somehow never received the same lasting post-serialization attention as its peers. It is a battle shonen built around the theme of gourmet adventure, combining over-the-top power scaling with an obsession for food. The easiest way to describe it is Dragon Ball with food.

The story follows Toriko, a legendary Gourmet Hunter whose job is to discover the world's rarest and most delicious ingredients. His chance meeting with Komatsu, a timid but exceptionally talented chef, marks the beginning of a grand adventure across a world filled with gigantic beasts, dangerous ecosystems, and mythical ingredients. As Toriko searches for the ultimate full-course meal, he is joined by his fellow Four Heavenly Kings in a journey that gradually expands into a conflict that will shape the future of the Gourmet Age.

While Toriko is far from perfect, especially during its final arc, where the pacing becomes noticeably rushed, it still delivers plenty of memorable moments. The Gourmet Casino arc remains my personal favorite. In many ways, Toriko also scratches the same itch as Hunter × Hunter's Dark Continent arc, exploring an untamed world filled with bizarre creatures and unimaginable dangers, something fans have had little chance to experience due to Hunter × Hunter's long-running hiatuses.

Despite its popularity during serialization, for some reason Toriko never maintained the same level of cultural relevance as series like Dragon Ball, Naruto, or Bleach. There are probably several reasons for that, but my biggest complaint would be Komatsu. While he is important part of the story, I often found him frustrating. He borders on being a Mary Sue, and his frequent exaggerated facial expressions became more irritating than endearing.

Nevertheless, Toriko remains a highly enjoyable read and an easy recommendation, even a decade after its conclusion. If you're looking for a battle shonen with imaginative world-building, ridiculous powers, and a unique focus on food, Toriko is still well worth your time.

Joytoy Warhammer 40k 1/18 Darnath Lysander

It has been quite some time since we received another noteworthy Imperial Fists release following the major batch that accompanied the Primarch Rogal Dorn action figure release. While it took a while, the Imperial Fists' First Company Captain, Darnath Lysander, has finally joined JoyToy's 1/18 action figure lineup. Scheduled for release in November 2026, JoyToy's 1/18 Darnath Lysander will be priced at 87 USD.

This release is noteworthy because I believe it marks only the second time a named Space Marine character, excluding Chapter Masters, has been released in Terminator armor. The previous example was Severus Agemman, the Ultramarines' First Company Captain, and now Darnath Lysander follows as the Imperial Fists' First Company Captain.

As a Terminator-armored Space Marine Captain, Darnath comes equipped with his Master-crafted Thunder Hammer, Fist of Dorn, and a Storm Shield. This combination makes him an imposing defensive powerhouse, combining the durability of Terminator armor with the Imperial Fists' reputation as masters of fortification and siege warfare.

Considering I already own Tor Garadon and Sigismund, Darnath Lysander would make a fine addition to the collection. Compared to Severus Agemman, I can already see some improvements in this release, and I would not be surprised if a Blood Angels First Captain follows as the next addition to this lineup in the future.

Glort Celestial Chess 1/100 Gladiator Type I -ASA-

Some Chinese model kits that I overlooked earlier this year turned out to be surprisingly decent end products. This one is a 1/100 scale fantasy mecha model kit with a diecast frame, manufactured by Glort as part of their Celestial Chess lineup, and is simply called the Gladiator Type I. Released in Q3 2026, the Glort Gladiator Type I is priced at 168 RMB.

I think this model escaped my attention initially because it looked too similar to Moshow's Lancelot, which I already own. However, after its release, it definitely deserves another look. Overall, the Glort 1/100 Gladiator Type I is a medieval knight-inspired mecha with additional Hellenic aesthetics, reminding me of a larger version of Achilles from Danball Senki.

The biggest selling point of this product is that it includes a cape alongside the standard sword and lance weapons, which helps it convincingly capture the image of a knight mecha. If it were not for the unfavorable RMB exchange rate this year, I would likely have purchased a copy of this model kit myself.

Genesis of Aquarion SRC Solar Aquarion Review

 

By this point, I don't have many Super Robot Chogokin figures left in my collection, and Solar Aquarion happens to be one of the older purchases that remained unopened for quite some time. As a die-cast mecha action figure line that often punched well above its price point, Super Robot Chogokin turned out to be something of a mixed bag, with Solar Aquarion representing one of the weaker entries in the lineup.

Looking back, the Super Robot Chogokin series hasn't aged particularly well. The plastic joints tend to become quite loose over time, and my copy constantly has trouble with the shoulder assemblies, which pop off far too easily. Even so, it's hard to complain too much about a Bandai die-cast mecha figure that originally retailed for only 5,000 yen, a level of value that belongs to a bygone era.

Despite its shortcomings, Solar Aquarion still has several features that genuinely exceed expectations for its price. The Mugen Punch effect parts are impressive, while the fully deployed solar wings give the figure a majestic and imposing presence. Had Bandai followed it up with regular Super Robot Chogokin releases of Mars Aquarion and Lunar Aquarion, I probably would have kept my copy despite its obvious flaws.

Dungeon Soup – Chaotic Good Barbarian

 

One of the more noteworthy fantasy-themed YouTube animation series I have come across recently is Chaotic Good Barbarian by the channel Dungeon Soup. It is an amusing fantasy cartoon with a distinctly dark, violent sense of humor that reminds me of Adult Swim productions and Space King by Flashgitz.

Chaotic Good Barbarian follows the adventures of a barbarian hero as he battles an assortment of fantasy creatures, from vampires and banshees to dragons. Unlike a typical fantasy adventure, however, the series leans heavily into dark comedy. Rather than portraying the monsters as the source of fear, it turns the formula on its head, the monsters gradually realize that the true horror is the barbarian himself. The protagonist is delightfully unhinged, and much of the comedy comes from watching classic fantasy villains become the victims of his absurdly brutal methods, often suffering fates far worse than death.

At the time of writing, Chaotic Good Barbarian has completed its first season and is in the early stages of its second. The production quality is remarkably high for an independent YouTube animation, with expressive character animation, solid voice acting, and well-executed action sequences. While its graphic violence and twisted humor make it firmly aimed at an adult audience, it delivers them with enough charm to remain consistently entertaining.

If you enjoyed series like Adventure Time but have ever wondered what an Adult Swim-style version with a much darker sense of humor might look like, Chaotic Good Barbarian is well worth checking out.

Warhammer 40k Joytoy 1/18 Primarch Konrad Curze

 

Following the back-to-back releases of Salamanders figures, many collectors expected Vulkan to be the next Primarch in JoyToy's Warhammer 40,000 lineup. Instead, the honor goes to his longtime rival, Konrad Curze of the Night Lords Legion. To be fair, it was always a fifty-fifty chance between Vulkan and Curze following Corvus Corax's release, but having the darker counterpart to the Raven Lord arrive first feels oddly fitting. Scheduled for release in October 2026, the JoyToy 1/18 Konrad Curze is priced at USD 140.

Despite being one of the most anticipated Primarch releases in the JoyToy lineup, the prototype leaves room for improvement. The neck appears noticeably oversized and somewhat out of proportion, giving the figure an awkward overall silhouette. It comes across as surprisingly unrefined for a premium release, although the issue could potentially be disguised with a simple customization, such as adding a tattered scarf or cloth collar. Even so, the prototype in its current form struggles to justify its USD 140 price tag.

As a character, however, Konrad Curze remains one of the most fascinating Primarchs in Warhammer 40,000. Although his downfall was arguably less tragic than that of figures such as Angron, Curze's origins are among the most compelling in the setting. Created to embody justice and order, he instead crash-landed on the crime-ridden world of Nostramo, where constant violence and brutality gradually twisted his sense of justice into something rooted in terror. The result was a deeply damaged soul trapped within the body of a superhuman, ultimately leading the Night Lords Legion down a path of fear, cruelty, and ruthless vigilantism.

Like many people, I went through an edgy phase during my teenage years, and perhaps because of that, Konrad Curze has always been one of the Primarchs whose story I find the hardest to ignore. His descent into darkness makes him one of the more psychologically interesting characters in the Warhammer universe, regardless of whether one agrees with his methods.

Baki Dou

 

The Grappler Baki series is undoubtedly one of the most fascinating long-running fighting manga ever created. As absurd as the series can be compared to its peers, few would question the legacy it has left on Japanese pop culture. Its influence can be seen across the fighting genre, with traces of its larger-than-life aesthetic and philosophy reflected in franchises such as Street Fighter and Tekken.

I've followed the Baki series on and off over the years, but Baki-Dou is the first installment I've managed to finish from beginning to end. Set after the Pickle arc, the story centers on the resurrection of the legendary swordsman Miyamoto Musashi. His return becomes the catalyst for a series of brutal confrontations, as many of the franchise's most iconic fighters test their abilities against an opponent unlike any they have faced before, often with their lives on the line.

Overall, Baki-Dou embraces the over-the-top absurdity and unpredictability that the series is known for, which is precisely what has earned it such a devoted fanbase. Unlike many works that attempt to imitate its formula, Baki is remarkably self-aware of its own eccentricity and fully commits to it. Every character is driven by an almost irrational obsession with strength, combat, or personal philosophy, and the series presents these extremes with complete sincerity. As the centerpiece of Baki-Dou, Miyamoto Musashi serves as a fitting embodiment of martial insanity, an apex warrior whose refined lethality perfectly complements Pickle's raw, primal brutality from the previous arc.

For longtime fans, Baki-Dou delivers exactly what they have come to expect from the franchise: outrageous battles, unforgettable personalities, and an unwavering commitment to its unique vision. Newcomers, however, may need some time to adjust to its unconventional storytelling and exaggerated world, even though it is one of the more recent entries in the series.

Saint Seiya SCM EX Sagittarius God Cloth

Saint Seiya has had its fair share of Sagittarius Seiya releases throughout the lineup’s lifespan, and not too long ago, we got yet another new SCM release for Seiya. This latest release from Bandai is quite peculiar! At long last, Seiya has received the Soul of Gold Sagittarius Myth Cloth treatment, which happens to be a P-Bandai release. Scheduled for an October 2026 release, SCM Sagittarius God Cloth Seiya will be sold for 25,000 Yen.

This release is a stark contrast for those who already own a copy of the SOG SCM, like myself. While this is essentially a re-release with a new face plate and some repainting, the price of this SOG Sagittarius is quite astronomical, I would say. At up to 180% of the original SRP for something that was released a decade ago, it really highlights how inflated certain collector commodities have become, especially with high-end lines like SCM being increasingly vulnerable to price hikes.

This release could be considered Bandai’s offer to collectors who missed out on the original SOG SCM, but they are definitely asking quite dearly this time around. If the SOG SCM ever gets another re-release, just don’t expect it to be affordable. At this rate, it could very well cost twice as much as it originally did.

Vintage Toys Super B-Daman Battle Phoenix

With the recent reveal of Takara’s new B-Daman products, one of my childhood memories resurfaced once again. After the fifth Bakugaiden series, Takara decided to transform B-Daman into something closer to an over-the-top competitive sport, similar in spirit to series such as Beyblade and Crush Gear. The result was Super B-Daman, a series that combined the expressive design elements of B-Daman with elaborate mechanical designs, turning a simple marble-shooting toy into something much more ambitious.

One of the many products I happened to own as a child was Battle Phoenix, which appears to be an upgraded variant of Fighting Phoenix. This particular model was first released in March 1998 with a price tag of 780 yen. However, the one I owned was most likely a counterfeit version, which was quite common in Indonesia at the time.

One feature that allows me to remember this former collection even after more than 20 years is the distinctive orange shoulder armor with its spring-coil suspension mechanism. This design detail left a strong impression on me and became one of those small memories that remained despite the passage of time.

The spring-loaded shoulder armor was supposedly designed to enhance the gripping power of the B-Daman, allowing Battle Phoenix to achieve stronger shooting power. While the concept was certainly gimmicky, it was also part of what made Super B-Daman so memorable, the attempt to turn every mechanical detail into a meaningful feature within the fantasy of competitive battles.

Coincidentally, I also owned Battle Phoenix’s rival unit, which will become the subject of a future discussion.

Cang Toys Trans Age Yinglong Wei

 

Cang Toys has made a rather unexpected move, but one that still reflects the company's reputation for quality. Best known for its premium third-party Transformers figures, Cang Toys is entering the blind box market with its new Trans Age series, beginning with Yinglong Wei. Despite being a blind box product, it is clearly positioned at the premium end of the market, showcasing the manufacturer's craftsmanship and attention to detail. Scheduled for release in Q3 2026, Yinglong Wei is priced at 229 RMB.

This is far from an ordinary blind box release and, in terms of overall value, appears to surpass many competing products from brands such as Blokees and Sembo. The Yinglong Wei series consists of six approximately 10 cm dinosaur robots, each capable of combining into a larger robot reminiscent of a Chinese interpretation of Daizyujin.

Collectors familiar with Cang Toys' previous projects, particularly its Volcanicus and Predaking figures, will already know the company's expertise in designing dinosaur-themed transforming robots. That makes Yinglong Wei an intriguing release, even if it is surprising to see a manufacturer known for high-end collectible figures venture into the blind box market. Whether this marks the beginning of a new product strategy for Cang Toys remains to be seen, but it is certainly an interesting direction for the company.

KEMOTOYS 1/24 Knight of Skyfog Review

 Among my Chinese model kit collection, the Kemotoys Knight of Skyfog is easily one of the most unique kits I've come across. It is essentially a 1/24-scale fantasy mecha model kit that serves as an excellent alternative to Kotobukiya's Hexa Gear line. In terms of gimmicks and play value, it is already comparable to Kotobukiya's offerings. The Knight of Skyfog features multiple equipment configurations, allowing it to switch between a flight-oriented setup and a high-mobility shock cavalry form using its centaur-style exoskeleton. The kit's biggest weakness is its rather mediocre plastic quality, which ultimately prevents it from truly matching the overall standard of Hexa Gear.

Unfortunately, Kemotoys seems to have disappeared from the market, suggesting that the company did not survive beyond its first few years. It is a reminder of how fiercely competitive the Chinese hobby industry can be, where commercial success often depends more on the final product than on originality or innovative ideas. Even so, I would still welcome more 1/24-scale model kits from Chinese manufacturers that are compatible with Hexa Gear, as I still have plenty of Hexa Gear units that could use additional pilots.

Maoyuu Maou Yuusha

Maoyuu Maou Yuusha was one of the fantasy manga series I followed throughout the early 2010s, and I finally completed it a few years ago. At the time, there were several manga adaptations of the original light novel, but the version illustrated by Akira Ishida remains, in my opinion, the definitive adaptation. Interestingly, Ishida is now probably better known as the illustrator behind Lancer Artoria, one of the most iconic Servants in Fate/Grand Order.

When it was first released, Maoyuu stood out by offering a fresh take on the classic JRPG formula of the Hero versus the Demon King. Instead of portraying them as sworn enemies, the story pairs the Hero with a female Demon Queen, who chooses cooperation over conflict in an effort to end the seemingly endless war between humanity and the demon world.

The Matrix Movietalk: Merovingian and the Faustian Devil Archetype

Even more than two decades after its release, The Matrix remains one of the most influential Hollywood film series for millennials and earlier generations. Before revisiting the franchise in full, it is worth focusing on one of its most intriguing characters: the Merovingian.

Introduced in The Matrix Reloaded, the Merovingian is an arrogant, aristocratic power broker operating within the hidden layers of the Matrix. He functions as a kind of black-market intermediary, offering services such as shelter for exiled programs and acting as an information broker. His antagonistic role in Reloaded, particularly during the Château sequence against Neo, stands out as one of the film’s highlights. However, his brief reappearance in The Matrix Resurrections as a degraded, almost deranged figure left many longtime viewers puzzled.

SRW OG CCSTOYS 1/100 Alteisen Nacht

 

After a break from the Super Robot Wars lineup for more than a year, CCS Toys has returned with another die-cast release from the SRW Original Generation series. This time, the spotlight goes to Alteisen Nacht. Although it is essentially a repaint of the original CCS Toys Alteisen released in early 2025, the company has included a few additions that may convince collectors to give this version a second look. Scheduled for release in Q4 2026, Alteisen Nacht will be sold for 36,000 yen.

Like most previous renditions of Alteisen Nacht, the CCS Toys version comes equipped with the iconic Shishioh Blade. While this may seem somewhat redundant for collectors who already own their regular Alteisen, which also included the weapon, CCS Toys has added the M13 Shotgun as an extra accessory. Although the M13 is considered one of the more basic weapons in the SRW OG series, it is still a welcome addition and complements the overall presentation of the diecast toy.

Whether the M13 Shotgun alone justifies the 4,000 yen price increase over the original release is open to debate. Nevertheless, it represents a reasonable effort by CCS Toys to offer more than just a simple color variant. Hopefully, CCS Toys can continue delivering high-quality Super Robot Wars collectibles in the years ahead, even as the current global economic climate presents increasing challenges for both manufacturers and collectors.

Hobby Sakura Mushoku Tensei 1/7 Eris Boreas Greyrat

As one of the OG of the modern isekai genre, Mushoku Tensei continues to receive high-quality merchandise, and this latest release by Hobby Sakura is particularly noteworthy. The company has announced a 1/7 scale figure of Eris Boreas Greyrat, but what makes this release stand out is that it portrays Eris in her adult appearance rather than her more familiar teenage design. It is likely the first scale figure to depict her after the years she spent apart from Rudeus before their eventual reunion. Scheduled for release in April 2027, the figure carries a retail price of 28,000 yen.

Among the main heroines of Mushoku Tensei, Eris has always been the character who left the strongest impression on me. Despite sharing some of the story's most memorable moments with Rudeus during their youth, she ultimately becomes the last of Rudeus wives to reunite with and marry him. Their reunion, following years of separation and misunderstanding, remains one of the emotional high points of the series and one of my favorite arcs in the light novel.

The timing of this figure is also interesting. Choosing Eris's adult design suggests that the anime adaptation may soon reach this stage of the story. If that turns out to be the case, it might finally be the perfect opportunity for me to revisit Mushoku Tensei through its anime adaptation and experience one of my favorite arcs in animated form.

The Strongest Female Teachers

 

Another amusing fantasy manga with an absurdly long title; The Strongest Female Teachers Who Are Trying to Make Me Succeed, which I’ll shorten to The Strongest Female Teachers (Saikyou Onna Shishou). The series blends a variety of familiar tropes, echoing elements of The Tale of Genji, DanMachi and History’s Strongest Disciple Kenichi into a comedic fantasy setting built around “raising” rather than “finding” strength.

The premise follows three S-rank adventurers: a fighter, a mage, and a dark priestess. All three are frustrated by their inability to find a male partner who meets their standards. Instead of continuing to search, they decide to raise one themselves. They discover a 14-year-old boy who initially appears weak, but is revealed to have exceptional latent potential. They take him in and begin training him to become the strongest adventurer.

What follows is a series of comedic and adventurous situations, where the three women act as teachers while also becoming rivals in their own subtle ways. At the same time, various outside competitors are drawn to the boy’s untapped potential, creating additional tension and romantic comedy dynamics that drive the story forward.

Saikyou Onna Shishou had a somewhat rocky start, but it improves in its later arcs. In particular, the confrontation involving the so-called “fourth thief teacher” stands out as one of the more entertaining highlights. The manga is currently ongoing on a monthly release schedule. As long as it maintains a consistent balance of fantasy and romcom, it has the potential to run for quite a while.

B-daman Treasure Pack B-Daman Lucky Bag 27

Apart from the announcement of the Toyrise Saint Blaster release, Takara Tomy had another product prepared for the B-Daman series. It is one of the Treasure Pack releases, simply called Lucky Bag 27, which re-releases classic B-Daman products as a set. This particular release caught my attention because it serves as a decent starter pack. Scheduled for December 2026 release, this B-Daman Treasure Pack will be sold for 5,000 yen.

The playset contains two B-Damans, two target dummies, and two accessories. The item that caught my attention the most is a repainted version of Fighting Phoenix included as one of the B-Daman variants. It immediately reminded me of the Fighting Phoenix that I owned in the past, which, if my memory serves me correctly, was Battle Phoenix.

While I am not particularly interested in this specific B-Daman series, it brought back memories of my impression of the B-Daman era represented by Fighting Phoenix. During that period, B-Daman evolved from a simple marble-shooting toy into something closer to an elaborate competitive sport. The small glimpse provided by this Takara Tomy Lucky Bag release is only a fraction of how over-the-top and ambitious that particular era of B-Daman became.

Bandai Namco Chinese Horse Zodiac 2026 Toy Review

 I don't deliberately collect designer toys very often, but according to Chinese astrology, 2026 is expected to be a particularly challenging year for those born under the Horse zodiac, myself included. With that in mind, I decided to embrace the once-every-twelve-years occasion and pick up a small lucky charm in the hope that it might help me get through my Tai Sui year.

That eventually led me to the large version of the 2026 Chinese Zodiac Gundam, a Horse-themed designer figure. Although it was released under the Bandai Namco label, I suspect it was actually manufactured by a Chinese company, especially since the smaller blind box versions were produced by QMSV.

Since I'm not really a designer toy collector, I don't have much of an emotional attachment to this piece beyond keeping it as a symbolic good-luck charm. Part of the reason is that its color scheme feels a little contradictory. The figure is predominantly dark brown, which doesn't quite match my expectations for the Fire Horse year, where brighter reds or warmer tones would have felt more appropriate. If I ever come across one, I might instead try my luck with the QMSV Horse Zodiac version, which I might obtain thematically more suitable variant.

Gundam 00 Mechatalk: Esoteric Interpretation of 00 Movie

 

It has been quite some time since I last wrote a Mechatalk article on the Gundam series, and it is perhaps fitting that I return with Mobile Suit Gundam 00: Awakening of the Trailblazer. Having recently revisited the movie with a broader understanding of mythology, symbolism, and philosophy than when I first watched them, I wanted to revisit the movie from a different perspective.

Upon my second viewing, I was reminded that Awakening of the Trailblazer is an unusually narrative-driven Gundam film. Nearly seventy percent of its runtime is devoted to philosophical and thematic exploration rather than mobile suit combat. Considering Bandai's commercial interests, it is remarkable that such an introspective project was ever greenlit. This led me to wonder whether the film carries a deeper symbolic message beyond its explicit theme of mutual understanding.

Therefore, I began to wonder whether there is something more unfolding beneath the surface that allowed such a narrative-heavy Gundam film to be produced. Perhaps Awakening of the Trailblazer serves as an encapsulated message that extends beyond its explicit theme of mutual understanding and peace. One possible key to navigating its deeper symbolic layer is the concept of the Aion of Aquarius, or the Aquarian Age.

B-Daman Bakugaiden Toyrise Saint Blaster

After releasing White Bros, Blue Braver, and Yellow Crasher separately, Takara Tomy decided to release Saint Blaster as a Toyrise complete set, bringing with it several new refinements. Scheduled for release in January 2027, Toyrise Saint Blaster will be sold for 30,000 yen.

One of the most notable refinements in Toyrise Saint Blaster is the inclusion of a B-Daman unit set that can shoot marbles, unlike the previous releases. However, for some reason, Takara Tomy chose to use plastic marbles instead of the original type of marble. For those who already own the Saint Blaster set, the new B-Daman unit will also be available separately for 6,000 yen.

Had I known that Toyrise Saint Blaster would eventually be released as a complete set, I probably would have chosen this version instead of giving in to FOMO and purchase the separate variants. In total, I spent around 45,000 yen for the set.

It is not exactly a major regret, though. At times, I am still amazed that I spent that much money on a new version of something I originally obtained for around 2 USD. But nostalgia is a powerful factor, especially for millennials like myself. Sometimes, collecting is not simply about the object itself, but also about reconnecting with a memory from the past.

Girls Frontline 2 VKEND 1/6 Qiongjiu figure

 

One of the Girls’ Frontline 2 T-Dolls with a standout skin has finally received a long-awaited PVC figure announcement. Qiongjiu, also known as QBZ-191, is getting a 1/6 scale figure produced by a manufacturer called Vkend. This release is especially notable because it is based on her premium skin version, “Heaven Transcending Justice.” Scheduled for release in February 2027, the Qiongjiu “Heaven Transcending Justice” 1/6 figure will be sold for 1186 RMB.

This rendition of Qiongjiu immediately caught my attention because it features my favorite skin in Girls’ Frontline 2 for my mainstay T-Doll, whom I had raised to T6. While Girls’ Frontline 2 offers no shortage of fanservice skins for players to purchase, my preference has always leaned toward more tacticool designs. Qiongjiu’s “Heaven Transcending Justice” stands out as one of the best in that category, blending a Dynasty Warriors-inspired aesthetic with imperial Chinese motifs. In-game, it was an instant purchase for me, especially as it also includes an additional wholesome dorm interaction.

If this figure had been released in 1/7 scale, I would have been very likely to pick it up. However, as a relatively new manufacturer, Vkend has opted for a 1/6 scale release, which is a somewhat unusual decision for anime scale figure. Hopefully, this rendition of Qiongjiu will be successful enough to lead to more her related merchandise releases in the future for collectors like myself to consider.

Space King: The Board Game

 

After a very successful run over the past few years, Flashgitz’s Warhammer 40K-inspired animated series, Space King, has reached another major milestone. Announced alongside the release of its fifth episode, Space King is now getting its own board game. The game is being launched as a Kickstarter campaign running through the end of September, with pledges starting at $99.

For its initial board game launch, Space King follows the typical Kickstarter board game formula: it is heavily focused on miniatures and appears to be firmly in the American-style board game genre. If the project proves successful, I could see a more retail-friendly version following in the near future, which is something I would be particularly interested in, since I have never been particularly into miniature-heavy games.

Having followed Flashgitz since their Space Hulk animation days, I am not particularly surprised that the Space King series has reached this level of success. The series has managed to tap into the Warhammer 40K market by offering a very well-made parody that can stand on its own. As long as Flashgitz maintains this level of animation quality in the foreseeable future, I think Space King has the potential to grow into a successful multimedia franchise, with video games being an obvious product that could follow in the future.

Arknights x Persona 3 Collab Event

 

With Arknights having run for more than seven years on the CN server and six years globally, the game continues to go strong with a steady stream of content. That kind of longevity is a rarity in the gacha game scene, where many titles struggle to maintain momentum for even a few years. For its latest anniversary cycle, Hypergryph has something particularly special in store: collaboration events.

Not only are they continuing with the second Monster Hunter collaboration, but Hypergryph has followed it up with an even more unexpected crossover: Persona 3. The collaboration is set to begin on the CN server in early September 2026.

Persona 3 Reload APEX Limepie P3 Protagonist Makoto Yuki

 

Atlus and Sega continue their active push of the Persona IP through merchandise releases, and this time Makoto Yuki receives a particularly interesting figure. Among manufacturers, Apex-Toys is handling the release as part of their new Limepie series lineup. After establishing a reputation with premium PVC figures, Apex is now expanding into a more budget-friendly range, with Makoto Yuki chosen to spearhead this new direction. The figure is scheduled for release in April 2027 with a price tag of 6,800 yen.

Rendered in his Persona 3 Reload design, Makoto Yuki is posed holding an Arcana card, ready for combat. For a figure at this price point assuming a standard 1/8 scale this release appears to be a strong value proposition. It potentially surpasses previous budget-range PVC figures in both sculpt quality and design freshness, compared to lines such as Alter or Figuarts Zero.

And given the current trajectory of Persona merchandise marketing and the buildup toward Persona 6, I won’t be surprised that characters such as Joker and Yu Narukami will eventually receive figures in this same lineup.

Iron Toys 1/100 Star Eternal Review

 

One of the oldest Chinese model kits that had been sitting dormant in my backlog until I finally built it a few months ago is the Star Eternal by the Chinese manufacturer Iron Toys. While it falls short in the originality department, it more than makes up for it with its excellent price-to-value ratio. I picked up my copy for around USD 30, which was an absolute bargain for a model kit featuring a die-cast inner frame and such an imposing size.

The Star Eternal feels like a cross between the Nu Gundam and the 00 Raiser, combining design elements from both into a heavily armed ranged-focused mobile suit. One interesting feature of the kit is that it includes two color options for the armor parts—red or dark grey. For my straight build, I went with the dark grey version, though I'd probably choose the red color scheme if I ever decide to repaint the kit.

The Iron Toys Star Eternal was released at the perfect time, when the Chinese yuan was still relatively weak, allowing it to offer exceptional value for the money. Had it been released at today's exchange rates and production costs, it would likely retail for around USD 45, a price that would even make me think twice before picking one up.

Pacific Rim Infinity Studio Heavy Mecha Striker Eureka

The premium diecast action figure line from Infinity Studio’s Pacific Rim collection has finally come full circle. After several years of releases beginning with Crimson Typhoon, the final entry in the lineup Striker Eureka is now scheduled for release. Set for Q4 2026, the Heavy Mecha Striker Eureka will be sold at 1380 RMB.

Sayonara Odaiba Unicorn

 

After standing tall for more than a decade, yesterday, 31 August 2026, marked the final day of the 1/1-scale Unicorn Gundam statue at Odaiba DiverCity, where it had served as a beacon for Gundam fans from around the world to flock to. While it is certainly a sad turn of events, I think it is better to send off this iconic statue with a joyous swan song and remain optimistic that Bandai has its own plans for what comes next.

Personally, I am very grateful that I had the opportunity three years ago to visit the Odaiba Unicorn Gundam. It was the final stop in what became a Gundam statue hat-trick during my 2023 Japan trip, when I managed to visit all three life-size Gundam statues across Japan in a single journey.

Although the Unicorn Gundam is personally my least favorite of Japan’s three life-size Gundam statues, I was still very happy to have made it there before the statue was eventually taken down. At the very least, it enjoyed a considerably longer run than the life-size walking RX-78-2, which remains, in my view, the crown jewel of Japan’s Gundam statues.

I still believe Bandai would be prudent enough to prepare a replacement for the dismantled Unicorn Gundam. The question is what form that replacement might take—and whether it will even return to Odaiba DiverCity. Whatever Bandai has planned, I will certainly be curious to see what comes next.