Why I like anime figures.

Hatsune Miku Nendoroid

After reflecting about my first ever figure in a recent post, I thought about why I wanted to collect figures, and why I still do. What is it that I like so much about these plastic girls of mine?

The thing that always appealed to me about anime figures, is that they weren’t cheap tacky toys. They were well crafted, detailed and sturdy pieces. I loved the way they brought to life some of my favourite characters, I loved having them around in their cute and dynamic poses and broght colours. They just made me smile.

Some people collect Royal Doultan ornaments, finly crafted pieces of art for the purpose of being displayed and enjoyed by the eyes. Some people collect Steiff Teddy Bears, not to be cuddled, but to be displayed in a dust free cabinet, purely for viewing pleasure.

My mum sees anime figures as collecting ‘silly little toys’ and a lot of people probably see it that way too, but its totally different to me. I look at my anime figures and to me, they are my Royal Doultan equivalents. I like to display them proudly on my book case and shelves. I like to look at them and marvel at their appearance. I love the joy of collecting and owning something which I find very fun and beautiful.

I still enjoy my figures in the same way today and I haven’t got bored of them yet like good old mum said I would. There are some astounding companies around today who make truly remarkable figures and you see new and interesting things happening in the industry all the time. It really excites me. Companies are always upping their game to make better products and it’s just great when you see how things have changed comparing old figures to new.

Two years ago, I wouldn’t have even imagined high quality anime action figures like Figmas, nor would I have expected detailed figures with interchangeable parts. And who would have thought a cute series of mini figures like Nendoroids would become such a big deal. But it’s all happened my friends.

The thing for me that pushes anime figures away from toys, is that anime figures are always changing.  Toys like Barbie, Action Man, model horses and toy cars have been essentially the same for years, they’ve found what works and just stick to it. But figure companies are always evolving and changing. Making new and better things, making interesting designs or whole new concepts.

When figma’s came out, most people didn’t like the joints, but now they are very sucessful and most people enjoy them. I’m glad companies made the brave step into making something new and different like this. It keeps things interesting.

Thats why I like anime figures so much. I can’t wait to see what the future brings.