I mentioned in this entry that Max Factory has starting their own line of highly poseable and articulate toyline called “Figma”. It looks as though Japanese companies are taking notice of the popular Revoltech line by Kaiyodo and feel that articulation is the way to go in the present market and in the future. Recently, the Figma Yuki Nagato was released in Japan this past Valentine’s Day with quite a bit of fanfare and I know I’m eagerly awaiting the Lelouch Lamerouge figure. For those who missed out on the special Figma Suzumiya Haruhi, which you got with the preorder of the Sony PS2 game, don’t fret…because Figma has just announced two new figures: Suzumiya Haruhi from The Melancholy of Suzumiya Haruhi and Saber from Fate/Stay Night.

As for the Figma Saber figure, since I already have the Revoltech version of her, I am more reluctant to get another figure of her, however, if I see favourable reviews once it’s released, I may pick one up just to compare. As far as a comparison between the Figma and Revoltech toylines, I give a slight edge to Revoltech not only because there is a wider selection of figures, but Kaiyodo has had the time to improve and refine the design and technology of their “Revolver Joint” technology. This is most evident in the Fraulein line of toys since the joints are more seemless and it doesn’t sacrifice anything in terms of posability. It looks as though fans can get their hands on the Figma Haruhi figure in April while Saber looks to be available soon afterwards.

-Stephen