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.

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.