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New prototypes have arrived!! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ

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Phew! They arrived just in time!!

It’s fairly standard for GSC to make two sets of prototypes – however once the first set has been painted within GSC, the painting of the second set is normally outsourced to another company, to be painted based on the first set.

Today’s prototypes have literally just come back from that other company in time! If it had come back one day later I wouldn’t have had the time to create this post!!

The set of figures I’m talking about that caused all this… are none other than these lovely idols! (`・ω・´)
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Nendoroid Petite: Love Live!

The characters from the popular anime series ‘Love Live!’ are joining the cute Nendoroid Petite trading figure series! The set includes Honoka Kousaka, the central member of the ‘µ’s’ school idol group, as well as two of the other members, Umi Sonoda and Kotori Minami!

Each of the characters comes in both their Otonokizaka Academy uniform as well as their ‘µ’s’ stage outfits, for a total of six different variations. Plus there is also one secret character to look out for! Collect and display them all to recreate the school idol project right by your side!

The original three members of ‘µ’s’ (‘Muse’) in both their uniforms and stage outfits!! (*゚∀゚)=3

You get to enjoy both the school-side and the stage-side of the series all in a single set of Nendo Petites! Each figure will cost just ¥600, with a total of seven figures to collect including one secret character! They’ll come in ‘blind boxes’, so you won’t know which character is in which box until it’s been opened!

As usual, you can choose to preorder a large box of eight figures, or instead buy them one-by-one at stores!
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This is how the look from the back!

Take a close look at the two different variations of each character! The hair parts of the uniform version and the stage version are different!

It’s easiest to see on Umi-chan (left), but the stage versions of Honoka (center) and Kotori-chan (right) also have a more dynamic, moving appearance to their hair! It’s always great to see a whole new sculpt was made in order to include small details like these! (`・ω・´)
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Umi Sonoda, Honoka Kousaka & Kotori Minami (Stage)!
The lovely μ’s debut outfits!

This shows the three characters as they looked when they first took the stage in episode 3! Even though there weren’t many people in the audience, they still sang and danced the best that they could for those who were there! It was such a lovely scene!! Honoka was really awesome in that episode… (*´∀`*)

Just look at those expressions!! They’re trying so hard!!
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Umi Sonoda, Honoka Kousaka & Kotori Minami (Uniform)!
The standard side of the school idols!

All three of the girls wearing their Otonokizaka Academy uniforms! The uniform become quite popular for its cute design! The facial expressions also capture each of their personalities so nicely!

You can choose to pose them walking toward school, or instead chatting in the classroom! Your very own school idols will take whichever pose you prefer!
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Umi-chan with an embarrassed expression!

Umi-chan was so cute in this scene!! I wish I could have been the one pulling the jersey down!! (*゜∀゜)=3

This expression isn’t included with Umi-chan – it actually comes from one of the Fate/Stay Night Nendoroid Petites… you might need to make a few little modifications with a craft knife in order to make it fit nicely. (Unfortunately I can’t confirm that the parts will swap out with the prototype.)

The expressions on Kotori-chan and Honoka are those from the uniform version – these should be able to swap easily. Nendos from the same series generally swap expressions without problems! I think these smiles actually suit the stage outfits very nicely!
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Nendoroid Petite: Love Live!

 
They’ll be up for preorder from tomorrow!
Get in contact with our partner shops if you have any preorder or sales queries!

 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ

 
 
© 2013 プロジェクトラブライブ!

Nendoroid Number 300!!

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She’s finally about to be shipped out to everyone!!

Preorders for #300 started on the 17th December last year! Now with five months past, she is ready to make the journey into everyone’s collections! It looks like the staff are rather excited about her as well! Σ(゚∀゚*)

Today I’ll be doing a release review of the prestigious Nendoroid Number 300!!
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Nendoroid Hatsune Miku 2.0!

From the ‘Character Vocal Series 01: Hatsune Miku’ comes a special new version of Nendoroid Hatsune Miku!

Miku 2.0 comes with both the winking expression and the excited expression that featured in the opening movie of the ‘Hatsune Miku and Future Stars Project mirai’ game. She also comes with all new optional parts such as a keyboard and a guitar for some brand new poses, and even comes with some alternate parts that allow you to pose her sitting down! It’s the same Miku everyone has come to love with an extra touch!

The new Miku has a completely new sculpt!! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ

Her head and body have been adjusted to better suit the format of more recent Nendoroids! The paintwork on her outfit has also been adjusted to look more futuristic, and she comes with a bunch of new optional parts!

She really has been upgraded into a brand new ’2.0′ version!
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This is how the packaging looks!

She comes with many big parts including three different expressions, two sets of twin-tails and sitting parts! Plus the classic bent arms and legs are still included, and she even comes with a guitar, keyboard and speakers! There are so many different parts to play with!! (((゜Д゜)))

I don’t think I’ll be able to get through all the different parts with today’s blog, but if you want to see more, be sure to check the prototype review I did back in December!

Nendoroid Hatsune Miku 2.0 Prototype:
http://mikatan.goodsmile.info/en/2012/12/17/nendoroid-hatsune-miku-2-0/
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Posed playing the guitar!

Wow! She moves around so easily! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ

This time Miku’s Nendoroid joints are rather special – you can still twist them left and right as always, but now they can also move backward and forward to a certain degree. Another change is the fact that her upper arm (the line between her arm cover and skin) can also be rotated, meaning you can create much more dynamic poses when compared to the original Nendoroid Miku!
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You can also pose her sitting down!

Ahhhh!! This is way too cute!!——(゚∀゚)——-!!!!

Using the specially included sitting parts, you can have this adorable Miku sitting beside you whenever you like! This pose is actually completely recreating one of Miku’s poses from the ‘My Room’ section in the ‘Project’ mirai 3DS game!
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Two different sets of twin-tails!

Her twin-tails are included in both a straight form and one that curves inward at the ends! The curvy ones were mainly designed for use with the sitting pose, but they also work with standing poses quite nicely!

You could even create even more dynamic looking poses by using one straight and one bent twin-tail – to give a kind of mid-motion effect!
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From #300, Nendoroids will use the new face design!

Up until now you have always needed to remove the neck joint and fringe part before removing the expression from the head part, but with the new design it’s a whole lot simpler! You simply pull the fringe off and then you can directly remove and change the expression!

Having tried it myself, I can say it’s a wonderful change! (`・ω・´)b

It’s nice to be able to switch out expressions without ruining your pose! When you’ve worked hard to get a Nendoroid into a nice pose and then decide to change the expression… having to pull the neck joint out just to change the expression often caused the pose to fall apart. Now it’s a much simpler task!
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Older expression parts still connect fine!

Here we have the old Miku and the new Miku with swapped expressions! Older expressions simply connect into place!

Left – Expression: Old Miku / Body & Hair: New Miku
Right – Expression: New Miku / Body & Hair: Old Miku

Plus it’s not just with the old Miku Nendoroid – the new design is compatible with other Nendoroid expressions as well! The design team has really outdone themselves to ensure compatibility!!
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The twin-tail joints have also been improved!!

The Miku closer to the keyboard is the new Miku, the one closer to the camera is the old Miku! When you tried to turn the older joints up too high, they wouldn’t be able to go past a certain point, but the new joints have a nuch wider range of posability! Yay! (*゚∀゚)=3
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The inner cardboard of the box! (((゚∀゚)))

The cardboard inside the box can be removed to create a little diorama for Miku! It’s the room from Sega’s 3DS game ‘Project mirai’! (´∀`*)

Plus it’s not just a flat piece of cardboard, there are special fold lines that allow you to pop out a bed and shelves in the room! It’s wonderful!! Miku herself, all the optional parts and even the box that she comes in all have such wonderful details!! As expected of #300!! (*゚∀゚)人(゚∀゚*)
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Nendoroid Number 300:
Nendoroid Hatsune Miku 2.0!

The box also has a nice fresh design to it! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ

 
She’ll be in stores from the 28th May!
Get in contact with our partner shops if you have any preorder or sales queries!

 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ

 
 
(C) Crypton Future Media,INC. www.piapro.net

Tsukki is carrying a rather interesting box… Σ(゚Д゚;)
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The label reads: “Contains Despair”.

It’s like some kind of Pandora’s Box that should never be opened!

But wait… if Tsukki from the manufacturing team is holding the box… that must mean that it’s about to be sent off to China! Let me have some of the despair before it’s sent away!! Please!! (`・ω・´)キリッ
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From (Zoku) Sayonara, Zetsubou-Sensei:
Nendoroid Nozumu Itoshiki 1.5 &
Nendoroid Nozomu Itoshiki 1.5: Kouji Kumeta Color Ver.!

Nendoroid Nozomu Itoshiki is being rereleased in the new Nendoroid format introduced from No.300! The super negative teacher with a pessimistic view on everything is back once again, looking just as cute as ever in Nendoroid size!

Also, a special version featuring colors selected by the original manga’s author, Kouji Kumeta, is being released as ‘Nendoroid Nozumu Itoshiki 1.5: Kouji Kumeta Color Ver.’!

Kouji Kumeta-sensei’s Colors!! (*゚∀゚)=3

Zetsubou-sensei looks so amazing in monochrome colors!

As I’m sure many of you know, Zetsubou-sensei was the 4th most requested rerelease product during the GSC 10th Anniversary Rerelease Poll! I know it’s been awhile, but the rerelease is now upon us! Along with a brand new color to boot!! Yay! ヽ(゚∀゚)

I’ll never forget back in March 2009, when I took the original Nendoroid Zetsubou-sensei with me to Matsudo Shrine and posed him hanging from one of the cherry blossom trees. I can hardly believe that was four years ago! The ancient blog article can still be found here for those who are interested!

There was even a video! I went way too far with this one! :P

http://www.nicovideo.jp/watch/1238038512

Here are the blog articles (Japanese only!):
http://ameblo.jp/gsc-mikatan/entry-10163999953.html
http://ameblo.jp/gsc-mikatan/entry-10163867100.html
http://ameblo.jp/gsc-mikatan/entry-10169436235.html
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This is how they look from the back!

Even though this is a rerelease, there have been a few changes for better balance with more recent Nendoroids – the head has been made a little smaller and the neck makes use of the new Nendoroid joints! So it’s not really a rerelease, it’s half a new release! :P

If you compare it directly to the previous version, you can actually see there are quite a few differences in overall balance! (・ω・)ノ

Nendoroid Nozomu Itoshiki:
http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/2229/
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His bag is included as an optional part!

The optional parts are exactly the same as the previously released version! The same goes for the Kouji Kumeta Color Ver. except for the fact that the colors have been changed!!

But just the few changes that have been made to his head part make him seem a whole lot more amazing!! I can’t help but want to hold him close whenever I see him! (*゜∀゜)=3
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He comes with an impatient expression!

It’s a bit of a comical expression, but it suits him so well! I still remember back with the first release when everyone was trying to decide which expressions to include with the Nendoroid!

Oh, and his scarf can be removed for whenever it gets too hot! An attendance register is also included and can be held under his arm like the left, or placed on the floor as on the right! Pick whichever pose you prefer! (=゜ω゜)ノ
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“I’m in despair!!”

“I’m in despair that I’m wearing the wrong scarf!”

Being able to remove parts also means that you can trade parts between the two! You should also be able to use the original Nendoroid Zetsubou-sensei, but the amount of combinations may be more limited…

The despairing expression and arms are both included! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ

Even in Nendoroid size the tiny bent fingers on those hands are incredible!!
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You can also hang them!

Although this probably isn’t a photo that should be put on the blog… you can once again display Zetsubou-sensei being hanged!! I hope the photo doesn’t have to be removed from the blog… (‘A`)

The rope for hanging is included with both versions of the Nendoroid – you just place the head inside it, and also attach the special hair parts to complete the pose! I must say this photo has a strangely surreal feel to it…
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Bonus! Switched heads! (=゚∀゚)ノ

I- I think I’ve discovered something amazing here!! The normal head on the Kouji Kumeta Color Ver. (on the right) looks amazing!

It’s kind of like having a Nendoroid of the manga version! I think fans of both the anime and manga are best getting both versions for combinations like this! I know I’ll be getting both of them!! I can’t wait!! 。・゚・(ノ∀`)・゚・。
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From (Zoku) Sayonara, Zetsubou-Sensei:
Nendoroid Nozumu Itoshiki 1.5 &
Nendoroid Nozomu Itoshiki 1.5: Kouji Kumeta Color Ver.!

 
They’ll be up for preorder from tomorrow!!
Get in contact with our partner shops if you have any preorder or sales queries!

 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ

 
 
© 久米田康治・講談社/さよなら絶望先生製作委員会

‘Hatsune Miku no Jikan (4th Period)’!

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Starting today at 19:00JST!!

http://live.nicovideo.jp/watch/lv137133495

On the 17th May from 19:00JST, there will be an official live broadcast ‘Hatsune Miku no Jikan (4th Period)’ by Sega, Good Smile and Crypton! The broadcast will feature the latest information about ‘Hatsune Miku: Project mirai 2′, information about other upcoming products as well as the voting of the 2014 Snow Miku design! It will be broadcast from the Good Smile & Karaoke no Tetsujin Cafe in Akihabara!

Schedule!

– Project mirai2 -

A test play of the upcoming Nintendo 3DS game, ‘Hatsune Miku Project mirai 2′! (Tentative Name) We will also reveal all the latest information about the game!!

‘Hatsune Miku: Project mirai’ – The rhythm game where Nendoroid Miku and friends sing and dance for you!

The second game in the series has been officially announced!! Yay!!!

I know there were many people who were stunned by the cuteness of the first game, and the second is bound to be even cuter!! Those who can’t wait for the live broadcast can check the official website in the meantime!

‘Hatsune Miku Project mirai 2′ (Tentative Name)
http://miku.sega.jp/mirai2/

Plus there will be a test play!!? (*゚∀゚)=3

Does this mean there will be a chance to play the game during the live broadcast?! Will I get the chance to play it myself?!
I know I’ll be taking my 3DS with me!!

- New Products -

A look at all the latest Miku-related products, including some brand new announcements!

That’s not enough details!!

But I can’t say anything more than that for now! You’ll have to wait patiently for the big announcement at the broadcast!! There is even some brand new info for all the viewers!

Hmm… Maybe this has something to do with it? Σ(゚∀゚*)

- FamilyMart x Piapro Collaboration: Summer & Sports Illustration Collection
http://piapro.jp/static/?view=2013fmiku

- Snow Miku -

All the finalist entries for Snow Miku’s outfit design and pet design will be voted on by viewers to determine the final design!

The fans have the final say on which Snow Miku is best!

Yesterday’s blog showed the nine selected finalists for both the outfit and pet designs! Today there will be a poll put up during the live broadcast using NicoNico’s questionnaire function, and all the viewers will get a chance to vote – the final design for Snow Miku 2014 will be decided live during the broadcast!!

2014 Snow Miku Outfit Design & Pet Design Finalists:
http://ameblo.jp/gsc-mikatan/entry-11531206268.html

Pick the design you like best and be sure to add your vote in during the poll! I can’t wait to see which design it ends up as!! щ(((゜Д゜щ)))

 
Hatsune Miku no Jikan (4th Period)!

Starting today from 19:00!

http://live.nicovideo.jp/watch/lv137133495

 
You can also watch the broadcast using time-shift at a later stage, but in that case you won’t be able to vote! It’s sure to be a broadcast filled with fun and Miku through, so don’t miss out!

 
Anyway, that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ゛

 
© Crypton Future Media,INC. www.piapro.net

The 2014 Snow Miku Outfit Design Contest!

http://piapro.jp/static/?view=2014yukimiku
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A big thank you for all the entries!

This year we were looking for both an outfit for Snow Miku with a ‘Magical Girl’ theme as well as a design for a pet to be included with her! We were a little bit worried that the split entries might cause less people to enter, but that wasn’t the case at all! We ended with with loads of wonderful entries for both the outfit design and pet!! (*´∀`*)

Today I’ll be showing the 9 products that made the final selections!!

You might be quite surprised to hear it, but that’s right!! We’ve selected a lot more than the standard four entries…

We’ll have 9 different entries for both sections up for voting on tomorrow’s live broadcast! It’ll work like so:
Outfit & Staff: Vote with 9 Entries -> Vote with Top 3 Entries -> Winner!
Pet: Vote with 9 Entries -> Winner!

The voting will take place in real time on tomorrow’s live broadcast ‘Miku no Jikan (4th Period)!’ The winner of both the outfit and pet designs will be decided by the fans!

But anyway, let me get to introducing the selected entries! (`・ω・´)

- 2014 Nendoroid Snow Miku Outfit & Staff Design -
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1) Snow Miku Submission / Matsuyashigeko
I thought I’d add my contribution to the contest!
http://piapro.jp/t/Y-A7
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2) Snow Miku 2014 Outfit / nekosumi
Designed with the image of Hokkaido’s forests in mind.
http://piapro.jp/t/asXX
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3) SnowMIKU×Magicgirl / Souno
A Miku that casts magic by playing music, and makes peoples dreams and wishes come true. I designed this Miku with such a magical girl in mind!
http://piapro.jp/t/F1ip
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4) Magical♪Travel / Mushiza
I was aiming for a more retro-style, nostalgic magical girl effect!
http://piapro.jp/t/8o6a
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5) 2014 Snow Miku Outfit: Magical Girl Clione / Hako
A Miku designed with the shape of a clione.
http://piapro.jp/t/jknu
0066) No Title / newrein
http://piapro.jp/t/m7fd
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7) Snow Miku / Chii
http://piapro.jp/t/-IIk
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8) 2014 Snow Miku Outfit / dera_fury
A magical girl with a cape and wizard’s hat! I was a little worried at first to submit her as there’s nothing overly special about her, but simple is best!
I’m sure it’ll be fine…!
http://piapro.jp/t/xy8T
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9) Swan Magical Girl Miku / Kotoma
My idea for the 2014 Snow Miku design contest. Based on the image of the white swans that fly over Hokkaido in the Winter, it also combines elements of snow and the clear night sky.
http://piapro.jp/t/sBW5


- 2014 Nendoroid Snow Miku Pet -
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1) Snow Miku Pet ‘Dosanko’ Horse / TOMhyG
2014 is the Chinese year of the horse, and when I think of animals from Hokkaido, I think of the horse native to Hokkaido, the ‘dosanko’ horse. That said, I designed my Miku pet around this horse, just giving it a snow-like white appearance with light blue highlights. He’ll gallop happily by Snow Miku’s side!
http://piapro.jp/t/LbpK
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2) Pika / Hanami
A design based on the rabbit-like ‘pika’ found in Hokkaido.
http://piapro.jp/t/aTbY
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3) King Bear Snowman / Souno
A mixture between a snowman and a polar bear!
http://piapro.jp/t/ZKM-
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4) Yukiusa-chan / Yuzuta
The big ears are his biggest charm, and have snowflake patterns on both sides. He is also super fluffy and has ribbons based on the same color as Miku’s hair accessories.
http://piapro.jp/t/Ckia
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5) Sorbet Bear / Mieau
http://piapro.jp/t/KNpI
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6) Snowy Owl / Nadame
Based on a snowy owl. Snowy owls are generally known to be found in the Arctic, but apparently can also be found in Hokkaido. He’s wearing glasses and a bow-tie for a more gentlemanly look.
http://piapro.jp/t/6Eoz
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7) Ezoyuki Rabbit / nekosumi
The design is based on the Ezoyuki Rabbit found in Hokkaido. The long ribbon is made to match up with Miku’s long twin-tails.
http://piapro.jp/t/ZEc9
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8) Penguin / caco
Designed completely based off a penguin! In my mind, magical girls = ribbons, so I also added a ribbon!
http://piapro.jp/t/P3xx
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9) Miclione / Piyosana
A pet based on the clione that live in the Okhotsk Sea and Hokkaido!
http://piapro.jp/t/D6uh


These entries are all finalists!

Nine different outfits and nine different pets!!

One of these outfits and one of these pets will become the new 2014 Snow Miku design! Take a look at them all now, and be sure to add in your vote during the NicoNico live broadcast! ヽ(゜∀゜)ノ

I also want to add… don’t go around making mean comments about the final selection or illustrators!! Keep things positive and just vote for whichever you think deserves to win!

- Hatsune Miku no Jikan (4th Period) -
http://live.nicovideo.jp/watch/lv137133495

17th May 2012: 19:00JST – 21:00JST

Snow Miku 2014 will be decided by the fan’s votes!!

This will be the 5th Snow Miku to date, and as always we want to make the design selection fun for everyone! Be sure to tune in and add in your vote!!

 
Anyway, that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ゛

figma KAITO

Max Factory’s desks are right beside us!! (σ゚∀゚)σ

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I’ve been waiting ages for a certain prototype to be ready… (*゚∀゚)=3

I know it’s due to be completed soon, so I’ve been checking their desks everyday waiting patiently, and when I saw it I very quickly let Nitohei know that I needed it for today’s blog! His response… he said I could take it, but unfortunately the two alternate expressions are currently away in China…

But that doesn’t matter! I want him anyway!! (((゚Д゚)))

I just want to play around with him a bit! Just like everyone else, I’ve been waiting so very long for his release!! He was requested to be made into a figma during the Good Smile 10th Anniversary Product Request Poll, and now at long last he is due to be officially announced!!
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figma KAITO!

KAITO, the Vocaloid that acts like a big brother to Hatsune Miku, is finally joining the figma series! Using the smooth yet posable joints of figma, you can act out a variety of different scenes. He comes with three expressions: a smiling face, a powerful singing face and a gentle face with closed eyes.

The long-awaited figma KAITO!!

Ahh!! There are no words for how wonderful he is!! Max Factory have once again shown they are capable of truly outstanding things!! Just look at KAITO’s slim legs, his lovely flowing coat and that scarf fluttering around his neck! Finally KAITO will be available for everyone to touch and pose however they please!!
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This is how he looks from the back!

As you’d expect, his neck, elbows, hips and knees are all articulated… but that’s not all – you can pose his ankles and scarf too!! Display him in a stylish pose, a cute pose, a clumsy pose… pick whatever you think suits him the best!

I think I might be a bit too excited about this particular figure, but another thing I have to mention is the pearl coating on his coat! It’s beautiful!! (`・ω・´)
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He’s so very handsome!!

Just look into those clear eyes and refreshing expression!! Even Zeki-sama the KAITO-lover was impressed by this expression!!

By the way, for those not familiar with the figma series, he is actually about 13cm in height (about hand-size) – even when zoomed up this much he still looks fantastic!! In fact, I think because it’s zoomed in to this degree, you can really appreciate all the details nice and close!
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Such a happy smile!!

It’s so cute that I don’t know if I can go on living without it anymore!! It’s a pity the expression was off to China, I wanted to see it in person!!

It’s a lovely, big smile and his favorite ice cream!!

Special hand parts to hold onto the ice cream are included for both his left and right hands! He also comes with pointing hands, clenched hands and various other hand parts for all sorts of different poses!
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Jumping around with his ice cream!

I really wish I could have used the previous expression for this pose, but I was confident that even without it I could create a cute pose! :P

A longer version of his scarf is also included!

This means that you can recreate the latest and greatest ‘KAITO V3′! Just like the short version, the connecting point of the scarf is fitted with a ball-joint so you can move it into whatever position you need! It’s amazing what a difference you can make to the pose just by changing the direction of the scarf!
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You can also make him hold other small things!

I know I shouldn’t say this about my own photos… but I think I manged to get a really great picture of him here!! (*´∀`*)

The umbrella he is holding is borrowed from Nendoroid Snow Miku: Strawberry White Kimono ver.! Unfortunately it isn’t included with KAITO himself, but it shows that you can easily have him hold other things!
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The other expression is a singing face!

As you’d expect, a singing face looks great on him! The contrast between this more serious singing face and the cute smiling face is quite amazing!!

All you need to do is keep figma KAITO by your side while playing some of his songs! It’ll be like he is right there singing for you!! Yay!! ヾ( ゜∀゜ )ノ
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figma KAITO!
He’ll be up for preorder from tomorrow!!
Get in contact with our partner shops if you have any preorder or sales queries!
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ

© Crypton Future Media,INC. www.piapro.net

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Fighting for a prototype with Marusama just before release!

Or so I say… but the truth is that Maru-sama always lets me make use of the prototype first… He’s too kind! :P

The design team always creates an ‘order sheet’ for each figure, which includes images and text to try and explain all the wonders of that particular figure! You’d be surprised how many people are involved in just getting a single product ready and out into the market!

But anyway, today I’ll be taking a look at these two lovely Nendoroids! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ
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From Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse:
Nendoroid Cryska Barchenowa & 
Nendoroid Inia Sestina

From the popular anime series ‘Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse’ comes Nendoroids of the two soldiers of the Soviet Army known as the ‘Scarlet Sisters’, Inia Sestina & Cryska Barchenowa! Cockpits are also included, and can be placed together to recreate the two-seat cockpit! Enjoy the Scarlet Twins in cute Nendoroid form!

Plus… BETAs are included once again!! (`・ω・´)b

Previous when we released Nendoroid Yui Takamura from the same series she came with a soldier-class BETA – and the response was amazing! :P

This time around there are BETAs once again, as well as many other extra parts for fans to enjoy!!
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This is how she looks from the back!

These are the 2nd and 3rd Nendoroids from ‘Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse’, but they’re so detailed and have such intricate paintwork that it’s hard to believe that they’re Nendoroids! They really look identical to the characters from the series!! I can only assume they’re both going to be a huge job for the manufacturing team! (((゜Д゜)))

I also have to say that I think they both have a really cute bottoms. :P
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Inia includes her teddy-bear, Misha!

A special set of bent arms is also included which allows you to display her holding onto Misha! The teddy has such a serious expression, and even his claws and the underside of his feet have been carefully painted! It’s hard to see this as just a small extra when so much detail goes into it!

As you can see, displaying Inia with Misha makes for a truly adorable pose!
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A usable cockpit is also included!

Yep! She can actually sit inside the cockpit, ready for battle!! Another special set of arms is included to display her holding the handles in the cockpit – these are completely separate arms to the ones used to hold Misha!

The cockpits can also connect together!! Σ(゚∀゚*)

A single cockpit is included with both Inia and Cryska, so if you get both of them you can join the cockpits together! I’ll show a photo of this together with some surprising expressions at the very end of the blog! (=゚ω゚)ノ
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Cryska comes with a Dragunov sniper rifle!

An arm to hold the sniper rifle is also included, allowing you to create more combat-orientated scenes in sharp contrast with Inia’s cuter teddy poses!

I’m sure when you first look at this photo you’ll notice the strange bumps all over the BETA first, but be sure to take a look at the sniper rifle as well – the detail is magnificent!
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Holding hands to recreate the series’ key visual!

Unfortunately I wasn’t able to get my hands on Nendoroid Yui Takamura, so I wasn’t able to take my own photo… so this photo comes from one of our professional photographers! (`・ω・´)

If you picked up Nendoroid Yui for yourself, you’ll be able to recreate this lovely pose of them holding hands! As a side note, Nendoroid Yui’s hand part is included with Cryska and wasn’t a part of the original Nendoroid Yui release!
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The BETAs!

This time we have chibi forms of the Grappler-class BETA and Laser-class BETA!

The grappler-class (on the left) is really gross looking! The face (if you can call that a face) and teeth actually have a strangely realistic feel to them!

I suppose the laser-class is also fairly gross… but he also has a kind of cute side to him! Just looking at him makes me hope that those eyes can spin around inside the head. I also wish I could get a whole group of them together and create a laser BETA hoard… but that might be rather difficult…
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Joint-cockpit with insane expressions!

You can display both of the twins both in their so-called ‘berserk’ state!! These are definitely some very unique expression parts! Σ(゚∀゚*)

Plus as I mentioned before, the cockpits can be connected together!

They even connect in such a way that the one is higher than the other! A cockpit is included with both Inia and Cryska, but note that the part that allows you to connect them together is only included with Nendoroid Cryska.

In the photo above I’ve only connected two of the seats together, but if you had enough parts you could string three or even four together! If anyone decides to pick up multiple Nendoroid Cryskas, be sure to give it a go and send me some pictures!! (*´∀`*)
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From Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse:
Nendoroid Cryska Barchenowa & 
Nendoroid Inia Sestina

 
They’ll be up for preorder from the 16th May!!
Get in contact with our partner shops if you have any preorder or sales queries!

 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ

 
 
© 吉宗鋼紀・ixtl/テレビ東京/オルタネイティヴ第一計画

Oooh! Animal Crossing!! Σ(゚∀゚ )

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I should be working… but let me invite you to my village! (`・ω・´)

Even though it’s just a game, being the village mayor is such a great job!

Ah- ahhhh!!! Σ(゚Д゚;)
Look at that adorable little doggy character on the desk!!! I must quickly get to reviewing her, then I’ll be sure to get back to playing some Animal Crossing!! :P
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From Animal Crossing: New Leaf:
Nendoroid Shizue (Isabelle)!

From the popular game “Animal Crossing: New Leaf” comes a Nendoroid of your very own secretary, Shizue!

Pose her ready to work holding a clipboard and pen, or in a cute pose with a smiling expression! It’s time to take up some village building with Nendoroid Shizue!

It looks like she jumped right out the game!

Aaah!! She’s so cute!! 。・゚・(ノД`)・゚・。

I want to have her on display with me right now! I want her to help me with all my work! Actually… I’d even be happy if she just stands by my side and keeps me company!
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This is how she looks from the back!

Those of you who have played the English version will know Shizue as ‘Isabelle’! Her lovely green chequered shirt and fluffy tail have both come out looking fantastic!

Also, the bell in her hair is a genuine bell! Just by moving her around a bit you’ll get to hear the same ringing sound you always heard from the game! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ
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Shizue walking over to the village mayor’s desk!

Shizue will always come walking over with a relaxing smile whenever the village mayor (the player) sits down at their seat! She is such an earnest, hardworking secretary! 。・゜・(ノД`)・゜・。

Her neck, shoulders, legs, upper arms and tail are all fitted with joints to help you recreate all the cute poses from the game in figure form!
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The clipboard and pen from the official Twitter account!

Shizue-san is a very diligent worker and is ready to note down anything needed! I wish I could see what she is writing down!! (*´∀`*)

She also comes with a set of bent arms to hold the clipboard and pen!
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A lovely smile and musical note parts!

This recreates the pose Shizue takes whenever you choose the singing action! The musical notes also appear at various other times in the game, but more than anything they can simply be used to create a super happy-looking pose!

The smiling face is the same one she makes you when make new public utilities! You can enjoy this lovely expression whenever you like now! (´∀`)
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“Do you need something?”

She’s so adorable!! The tilted head combined with those round eyes are almost too much for me!! (((゚Д゚)))

The question mark icon seen in the game is also included, and can be attached to her head with a clear rod that attaches onto the red ring in her hair. Two different versions of the red ring are included – one normal version, and a special version for the question mark icon!
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Shizue has made a helmet for the village mayor!

But it’s a little bit too big… and now she looks all worried! Aww!! She’s so cute that I just want to throw my keyboard over and play with her!! :P

I also can’t wait to see what new DLC and events are coming this May!!
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From Animal Crossing: New Leaf:
Nendoroid Shizue (Isabelle)!

 
She’ll be up for preorder from tomorrow!!
Get in contact with our partner shops if you have any preorder or sales queries!

 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ

 
 
© 2012 Nintendo

One third of May has already flown by!

How can time go by so quickly?! (((゚Д゚)))

But this year has been strangely cold… it seems that Spring hasn’t really come yet! I hope the colder temperature continue into the Summer, so it doesn’t get too hot! Anyway, today will be the final post in this series…

Kuroyagi-san’s Letter Corner: Cherry Blossom Season 2013!

I hear that there are still some blossoms blooming in Hokkaido, but I had to get this post done this week, so I’m sorry if you didn’t get the chance to send through your photos!!

I will still happily look through all photos that come through, and I’m always looking for letters for the normal letter corner, so feel free to still send them through!


I kept putting off taking photos because of work or the weather, and before I knew it all the blossoms in my neighbourhood has started falling. I decided I still needed a photo and drove for about two hours to get some pictures of Miku with the cherry blossoms!

Miku sitting under the cherry blossoms having a little nap!

– Tsuukun
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I went out to view the cherry blossoms with a Nendoroid for the first time! I went alone, so it was hard to get the photos I really wanted. I finally got this, which I’ve now set as my desktop’s wallpaper!

– Shirokuro Neko

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This year there weren’t many branches which lead to not many cherry blossoms, but I decided to still send in my picture of Cheerful Miku basking in the light of the sunset.

– Rikachama
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I’ve been waiting to go to to my local park to get some photos while the cherry blossoms were in full bloom… but the weather just wasn’t cooperating. But eventually there was a nice sunny day for me to grab some pictures! I think it came out looking quite cute! (´ω`)

– Shinonome Eisuke
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I decided to match the blossoms with the size of the Nendoroids, so I found some young branches near the bottom of a cherry tree! They may be small, but they still had lovely blossoms flowering! (´∀`)

“I hope you’re drinking, Sanada Yukimura~!!”
“I can still go on much longer, Masamune-dono!

It seems this little cherry blossom viewing party will continue for some time!

– Kuraki
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Last year I really enjoyed viewing everyone’s loving photos during the cherry blossom season, so I decided I had to go out and get some for myself this year. I’m really not great with a camera, but I thought I’d still send through my favorite photo from the ones I took. I hope you’ll enjoy it!

This was the first time I had ever taken Miku outside, and her expression seemed happier than ever before!

– Elixir

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Hello! Today I went out to the local park with some friends to enjoy the cherry blossoms. Unfortunately it was rather cloudy, but the blossoms were in full bloom so it was still great! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ

– LQ (China, Shanghai)
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I took a picture for the cherry blossom season photos, so here it is!

“I’m so glad I met you…”

– Jim no Hito
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Am I still in time for the cherry blossom photos?
– I_D_R_

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Bonjour Mikatan,
J’ai adoré les photos dans les articles du courrier de Kuroyagi-san.
Hier le soleil est enfin revenu à Paris. Je me permet de t”envoyer

quelques photos prise ce weekend.
J’espère que certains te plairont.
Bonne continuation ^_^

– Ting
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It seems Gackpo went out to see the cherry blossoms.

“They had all fallen down to the ground after being knocked down by birds… but they were still so pretty so I brought them back with me! ♪ I’m also sure they’ll look great on you, Luka!♪”
“Oh, thank you! ♪”

Was the conversation he had with Luka when he got home.

Sorry, I was only able to get a photo indoors! I love letting Nendoroids hold the blossoms or sticking them on with double-sided tape… but going outdoors for photos is still a hurdle I haven’t quite managed to get over! orz.

– Anonymous
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This is my first contribution, so I’m a little nervous. While the blossoms on the way to school were blooming, I took Sakura Miku with me to enjoy them! She’s so cute! ヾ(*゚▽゚)ノ

Here in Beijing, this year’s blossoms bloomed slower when compared to last year. I read you were still taking a few more contributions for Part 3, so I decided to send in my photo too! I’m sorry for the poor Japanese, but I hope you enjoy the photos! m(_ _)m

It’s the Two-Leek Swordsman and the Sakura Wizard? :P

It’s really sad that the cherry blossom season is so short, but perhaps that is why they look so beautiful to us when they do bloom!

– Sywinty
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Mikatanこんにちは!私はまどかのいくつかの写真を撮った!
私はあなたがそれらを好むことを望みます!

Hello Mikatan!! I’m sorry for my bad Japanese, I can’t speak it….(www) I took some pictures of Madoka in the English cherry blossoms, I hope you like them!

From an English fan of yours!

(I’m really happy I found your blog, it is so much fun to read and it’s nice to see another girl interested in figures! I’m also SUPER HAPPY about the Dangan Ronpa figures that are being released!!!! I love Dangan Ronpa a lot a lottt!!)
– Anonymous
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I enjoying reading your blog every day! I went down to the park with Sakura Miku to view the cherry blossoms!

– Urufu

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I’ll be sending my photo through once again this year! ヽ(・∀・)ノ

This was taken early on a cold morning, my hands were so cold they were numb! It has also just been raining, so the blossoms were unfortunately facing a bit downward… (´・ω・`)

– Akaisuzu
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I really wanted to take photos at Takato Castle Park for the special Takato cherry blossoms there, but when I went the famous blossoms had already passed, so I took some pictures with some other blossoms instead.

– Azukyatto

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I went out with my figma Kyouko on an early morning cherry blossom viewing! I grabbed some photos with my iPhone!

The morning light together with cherry blossoms looks great. I really want to take my figures out to even more places now!

– Katakiri Saeika
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There were so many lovely photos in this year’s cherry blossom photos!♪
I didn’t find any Nendoroid Petites with the cherry blossoms in part one or two, so I decided to send one of my own!

Because they’re so small, the cherry blossoms are super big and easy to take pictures of! (`・ω・´)

– Luka
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Spring has finally come to the town I live in! I took my Sakura Miku out on a cherry blossom tour and some outdoor photos. She looks so cute in the shadow of the cherry trees! (*´ω`*)

– Nanashi no JK
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Whenever I read your blog I always thought to myself that I should get a digital camera. I finally grabbed one and took some photos at the riverbed near my home.

You can see that Octo-Luka was really enjoying the beauty of the scenery! > v <

– uepon
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A photo contribution from Hong Kong!
Last week I visited Japan and took a load of photos! This is at Nagoya Castle!(≧∇≦)

– ZephyrJK
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I made a Nendoroid Lyfa-chan and went out to view the cherry blossoms with her.

The weather wasn’t great with a fairly strong wind, but the flowers will still blooming beautifully!

– Anonymous

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The rain had caused all the cherry blossoms to fall to the ground, which I thought looked really pretty. They guided Madoka to the ‘Law of Cycles’.

– Yakumo

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Hello Mikatan-san!
There are cherry blossoms in France too!!

– Maritan.

(Maritan is the French translator of Mikatan Blog! She’s also super cute! :P )
http://blogdemaritan.com/
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Hello.

I went to see the Takizakura cherry blossoms, so I thought I’d send a photo through to you.

This year’s cherry blossoms bloomed in no time at all, and it feels as if they also scattered to the floor in no time at all. At least, that’s how it felt in Tokyo…. I wonder if it was the same all over…?

I’m sure there are a lot of people who are thinking something like, “It was too quick, I didn’t even have time to see them!”

I thought I’d share this photo of a proud figure in front of some beautiful blooming blossoms for all those people.

– Komuragaeri Banzai
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I went cherry blossom viewing with Sakura Miku, so I thought I’d send a photo through.

The photo was taken on the 21st April, it was the best time to see the blossoms in Miyagi prefecture even though it looked as if was about to snow. Even Sakura Miku was quite amazed at the scenery she saw!

(I’m sorry she had to get a little wet to see it though…)

– Akewata

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This year I have once again ventured out alone to take some photos with the cherry blossoms! Last year I took photos with Millhi, so this time around I decided it was Ricotta and Sakura Miku’s turn!

– Broad Blast
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I was wandering why no one ever did something different from the rest, when finally I decided I’d have to just make something myself!

I apologise if it’s a bit too far from the point of the cherry blossom photos!

– Molly

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A huge low pressure system hit my area, so I was never quite able to get the cherry blossom photos I wanted.

I was very happy to see all the photos from others though, they meant a lot to me. Even though I never got quite what I wanted, I still got something that I thought was nice enough to send through, so here it is!

I took it in the image of Homuhomu thinking deeply about Madoka, while standing under the cherry blossoms.

I also have to add that I’m really amazed at how people manage to take photos that hide the Nendoroid stands so well. It’s a lot of work to get great outdoor photos, but so many are absolutely amazing!

– D_yashi
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I went cherry blossom viewing with Sakura Miku. They were already starting to fall when I arrived, so I borrowed one of the fallen blossoms.

– Uni
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I carefully put Miku-san up onto a branch making sure not to injure the tree. Every time there was a slight breeze she kept making a cute ‘Kya!” and falling down. Eventually I managed to catch her in a cute pose though!

The photo is taken with the theme of “A New Semester”.

– Marimoru
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I just got my hands on Wakana, and even though the blossoms were already falling I managed to find quite a nice spot for a photo. I decided I’d send it in to this year’s cherry blossom photo collection!

– Meganekirari
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Hope i can visit Japan again someday with Sakura Miku

– JF
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The cherry blossoms have already all fallen here, so I decided to send through some photos of the blooming moss phlox instead. Gumako is nice and light so she doesn’t hurt the pretty flowers when she sits in them!

– Under B

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Today I’ll be showing the cherry blossoms from my hometown of Tomioka in Fukushima prefecture. As I’ve previously written in my Miku support message back in 2011, my hometown was marked as a hazard area after the Great Tohoku Earthquake and Fukushima Nuclear Reactor incident.

It’s been two years since the incident now, and slowly but surely the area is getting back to normal, but entry is still very limited at the moment. My hometown of Tomioka was actually once very famous for its cherry blossoms before the incident, and many tourists would come by to see them. Ever since I first heard Sakura Miku was going on sale last year, I’ve been keen to go back to take some photos of Tomioka’s cherry blossoms with her.

In March this year, the restrictions to entry were loosened even further, and permission to enter some of the area in which the cherry blossoms bloom was allowed. I was a little worried to go, but I couldn’t resist, so I went with my Sakura Miku for some photos. The area I really wanted to take photos at is called the ‘Cherry Blossom tunnel’, but unfortunately the radiation levels were high and I could only see it from my car – I still had to take some photos elsewhere though.

I’m very glad I was able to show Sakura Miku the cherry blossoms of my hometown. The complete restoration of the area may still be awhile away, but I’m sure that by next year we’ll be able to see the cherry blossoms properly once again. Another big thank you to both Mikatan and Good Smile Company for all you’ve done!

– Zero

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That brings this year’s ‘Kuroyagi-san’s Letter Corner: Cherry Blossom Season’ to an end! (=゚ω゚)ノ

(´∀`) Thank you for all the lovely photos! I’m very sorry I wasn’t able to put them all up on the blog! I’m so glad to see how many people are enjoying the cherry blossoms with their figures! Cherry blossoms really are so lovely!

(´∀`) I increased the brightness of some of the darker photos!

(´∀`) I really got the impression that everyone was trying hard not to hurt nature with their photos. It’s always best to be gentle with your figures and with nature!

(´∀`) There was a load of messages from overseas! Thanks to all the international fans!!

(´∀`) I’m always encouraged by my readers. When I see the figures we’ve spent a good half a year working on being enjoyed by people all over, I really feel happy inside! huge thank you yo everyone, and I hope you’ll continue to love figures with me!

As always, I’m also looking for more messages from readers! I promise I’ll read them all, so if you have any questions, pictures, requests, or just want to talk about what you had for dinner… send through a mail! Boys and girls both welcome!

Mikatan Mail
mikatan-b@goodsmile.jp

 
Anyway, that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again next week!! (・∀・)ノ゛

All the recent events and Golden Week have come to an end!
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But that said… WonFes is in just two and a half months, and preparations for that have to start now!

This it he desk of Otanaka from the planning team. He already seems to be a lot less space than normal… just look at that huge wall of documents on the right! Someone needs to clean it up before the Titans come and knock it over! :P

Anyway, today I’ll be taking a look at this prototype I found on his desk!
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From Macross Frontier:
Nendoroid Sheryl Nome!

From the anime ‘Macross Frontier’ comes a Nendoroid of one of the heroines, Sheryl Nome! The Nendoroid is based on the outfit seen in one of the opening themes as well as in the final episode, where she is dressed shining on stage as the ‘Songstress of the Galaxy’. She even comes with stage parts which can be used together with her standard base.

The famous outfit from the ‘Lion’ opening song! Σ(゚∀゚*)

Just by looking at her I can hear her saying “Listen to my song!”.

This Sheryl first debuted back as an unpainted prototype during February’s WonFes, and now she’s coming up for preorder just after Max Factory’s 1/7th scale figure! (`・ω・´)
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This is how she looks from the back!

Sheryl has lovely strawberry blond hair which looks stunning in Nendoroid size!! I really don’t think the photos really do her hair justice – you need to see it for yourself!!

The large ribbon around her hips is definitely one of the highlights of her ‘Lion’ outfit, and the bottom sections are even posable, meaning you can pose her in all the dynamic poses she took while singing the song! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ
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She wouldn’t be a songstress without a mike!

The golden mike that she uses in the series definitely has a very unique design, and the shape and color have been carefully recreated in Nendo size! You can also see she comes with a bent arm and bent leg, which allows for even more posing variety!! Not to mention there are bent arms and legs for both left and right sides! (`・ω・´)b

Also, the wrist section of the hand holding the mike can be switched out, in case you’d rather display her without the mike!
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Stage parts that connect onto the base!

This special platform helps you to recreate the setting of the final episode – the deck of the ‘Battle Frontier’ space ship! It simply connects onto any standard Nendoroid stand, so it’s also super easy to use! Plus it’s not too big, but still adds a bit of a dioramic effect to the display!

I’ll continue the review with Sheryl standing on this instead! (・ω・)ノ
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One of her expressions is a shouting face!

Here we have Sheryl singing to her heart’s content!! Before this I’ve been using her standard ‘smiling’ face, which does suit the cute Nendoroid design nicely… but seeing Sheryl singing like this with a more serious expression is also so amazing… (*´∀`*)

Plus if you combine it with the extended left arm you can create this really dynamic looking pose!!
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Her earrings have a metallic paint coat!

It’s a little hard to see as her hair is covering them up for the most part, but you can still see that the earring has a metallic, shiny look to it! It seems the earrings were not only important to Sheryl, but also important to the production team!! o(`ω´*)o

In the previous photo you saw she had her arm out to the side… but if you prefer you can also have her arm out forward like this! There are so many different ways to pose her!! Otanaka thought of everything!!
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She also comes with a more gentle singing expression!

This expression has her eyes closed as she continues to sing… it’s such a touching expression! Even in chibi Nendoroid form, I really think the detail and emotion shown on this expression is outstanding!

So from what I’ve I’ve shown today… there are an lovely set of expressions, multiple arm and leg parts as well as a special stage part! I’m confident fans of the series will be happy with this one! You can choose to just display her as is, or change around the parts to create your very own Sheryl! ヽ(゚∀゚)ノ
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From Macross Frontier:
Nendoroid Sheryl Nome!
 

She’ll be up for preorder from tomorrow!!
Get in contact with our partner shops if you have any preorder or sales queries!

Plus… Σ(゚∀゚*)
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Ranka-chan’s scupt prototype!

The photo here is still in development so I can’t show too much! She’ll be much cuter soon, so I’ll just show off her back for today! :P

Although… she’s already super adorable!!
I can’t wait to be able to display the final versions of these two together!

 
Anyway… that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ

 
 
© 2007 ビックウエスト/マクロスF製作委員

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