Kuroyagi-san’s Letter Corner! (Number 59)

March starts tomorrow!

        ____
      :/      \:
     :/ ..:::─:::::─ \:    ”Ever since WonFes ended I
   :/  ..:<●>:::<●> \:    came down with a fever, and I’ve only
   :|     (__人__)  |:    just managed to catch up on work…”
   :\     ` ⌒´   _/:   
   : ノ           \ : 

Time really flies… but at least now I have a little time to play New Love Plus and Nendoroid Generation!

The other day I was thinking of some kind of present to myself, but I really haven’t been able to think of anything. There isn’t really anything I really want… besides sleep and gaming time. 😛 Plus I have figures around me all the time, so getting a figure isn’t really an amazing present at the moment. What would you get yourself as a present?

But anyway, I’ll leave you wandering about that while we move into this corner!

Kuroyagi-san’s Letter Corner!

(゚д゚) Letters asking about changes to products are quite hard for me to reply to… but I do pass the info onto the design team!

(゚д゚) If there is a problem with your product, please email the Good Smile Support Team at: support@goodsmile.jp

(゚д゚) If you want to let me know something without me talking about it on the blog, just let me know in the mail and I’ll be happy to keep it quiet!

Please note that whatever I write in this section isn’t official – it’s just my thoughts on matters! If you’re only looking for official news, you might want to dodge this post!

Alright, let’s get started!! (・∀・)ノ


I’m writing this in regard to the Milky Holmes Nendoroids.
The other day you introduced Nendoroid Nero on the blog, and when her hat was off, there was no hair sticking up!
Even the Nendoroid Petite has it, so the big Nendoroid should as well!

   - Anonymous

The Nero Yuzurizaki Nendoroid that was on Mikatan blog the other day didn’t have any hair sticking up when her hat was removed.
The figure looks amazing, and it would be a shame for her to not have the hair! (´;ω;`)

   - Uraneko

002

The hair has been added!

The picture was taken in mid-production, but as you can see the hair has been added in! Plus it can also be attached to the ancestor’s hair part! Thanks for the heads up Nero fans, and sorry for the scare!


I watched the last WonHobby live broadcast, it was great! I’ve never been able to participate in WF myself, but I’m looking forward to going and investigating the booths in person at the next event.

I work in Akiba, but hadn’t been the the GSC Cafe there yet, so today (2/13) I went with my friend and had a Mega-sized QB Curry! We also got to take a look at all the things that were on display at WF! I even got to see my idol, Oda-P! And that Ultimate Madoka figure was just incredible…

I was very happy to see all the display figures transferred to the cafe the day after the huge event! I was so happy to be able to see them. Thank you

   - MOZU9

Thank you for the comments!

After the late live broadcast, there were still some staff members that went to work normally the next morning to get the prototypes on display… I really can’t compete with them… But there were lots of people who mentioned that they didn’t get a chance to see the figures on display due to the crowds, so we had to get them on display again for everyone to enjoy!

There was a load of mail about WonFes & the live broadcast!

I unfortunately don’t have the time to put them all up on the blog, but I’m really happy to receive them and I promise I read them all! Thank you all very much.


Hello Mikatan!
Thanks very much for the late night WonFes broadcast!

At WonFes I was able to try out some of the needle-nose pliers at the try-out corner.
I also tried out a number of other similar products, but the next day when I went down to the model store, I looked around a bit and settled on the GSR pliers.

I wanted to try them out again as soon as possible, so I got a few materials together and made a simple ring with them. I’ve worked with a lot of much more complex twists and turns and I can say for sure that the thin edge of these pliers and absolutely brilliant for small parts. The normal rough bits on the end on most pliers also are not on these, so there is no risk of leaving marks on metal. I’m so glad I decided on them!

003

I would also normally make use of a pin set to pull the beads out of their case to work with them, but this time I was able to do it with just the pliers! I personally find them so easy to use, plus they are made in Niigata prefecture which is well known for it’s metalworking! I’m surprised to see the price was so great for such an amazing tool!

I hope you can pass on these comments to whoever is in charge of the GSR Tools!

   - Anonymous

The ever popular GSR Pliers!

The diagonal pliers in particular are in fact still suffering from a lack of stock! Sorry about that…  but we are currently producing a whole lot more, so please be patient just a little bit longer.

Thank you for sending through the little trinket you made using your GSR Pliers!! It looks very well made!! Seki-sama from the General Management section is also a huge fan of the GSR Pliers! (He built an entire Aegis ship!)


This WonFes there are so many figures I can’t wait to get my hands on, but the best were Nendoroid Gackpoid and GUMI!
I actually sent in a request for them in the past, so I was so happy to see them! Both of them don’t have many products related to them, so when I saw them as a part of my beloved Nendoroid series I couldn’t have been happier! (´;ω;`)

    -Tako-Luka

I’m so glad to hear there will be a Nendoroid Gackpoid!!
Not to mention there is also GUMI-chan, Alice from Touhou, Nano-chan and Hakase from Nichijou, a second set of Vocaloid Nendo Petites, a set of Nendo Petites for Uta no Prince-sama and of course Ultimate Madoka!!!  I’m going to explode from happiness!! Gackpoid and GUMI!! I knew I could trust you, Good Smile!

   – Anko

I’m so glad to see people like the products that debuted at WonFes!

The staff had been working hard for months to get everything ready for the event, but when we receive mail like this we know that it was all worth it! Personally I’m really looking forward to Gackpoid, GUMI and the Uta no Prince-sama Nendoroids!!


I love reading your blog whenever I get the chance! I always find new fun ways to play with my Nendoroids when I read the blog! ☆(^_^)☆
I wanted to ask, when will the scale figure of Inori Yuzuriha be released?
I hope you can tell me! I’ll be looking forward to your next article!

   - yopipapa

I think the Nendo & figma will be first!

You’ll have to wait a little bit longer for the scale figure! But in the meantime I’ll do my best to write up some enjoyable articles for you!  (`・ω・´)ゞ


A quick question… are there any plans to release Kyouko as a part of the 1/8th scale Puella Magi Madoka Magica figure series?

I’m a huge fan of Kyouko, so I’d really like to see her join the rest of the girls! And yet another request… but I hope we’ll see some of the Persona 4 characters made into Nendoroids to display on my desk! 😛 I’ve always wanted to send some mail through to you after reading other’s mail, but never quite had the courage to do so… but this time around I finally managed to do it!

   - Yamazen

Hello! I’m a frequent reader of Mikatan Blog! I heard that you were a fan of Uta no Prince-sama and remembered discussing with my friend how there should really be Nendoroids from the series! I thought I’d take the initiative and email through our request for UtaPrince Nendoroids!

I hope to see the Nendoroids soon!

   - Anonymous 


You’re in luck!

These were also announced at WonFes!

The first P4 Nendoroid is Yukiko! Plus there are also figmas on the way, so I hope you’ll enjoy them as well! Those who want to see the figures on display at WonFes can see them over here:

– GSC Products –
http://twitpic.com/photos/gsc_mikatan

– Max Factory Products –
http://twitpic.com/photos/2tohei

– Other Company’s Products –
http://twitpic.com/photos/GSC_GUMA


I just saw the announcement of figma Samus Aran! It looks like she just jumped right out of the game!  I was thinking I had to grab her when suddenly I noticed… she’s from Nintendo!

That means you guys could make Link as well! I want a gallant figure of Link from Wind Waker!

And alongside the scale figure I also request a Nendoroid and figma! I hope you’ll consider it!

And also… when is the red Archer going to release…?

   - Suzuki

Yep! NINTENDO!!

Well, it’s not specifically a Wind Waker version, but figma Link is in the production process! I still can’t believe that we are making figures from Nintendo’s games! He’ll be coming up for preorder shortly, so look out for it!

I’ve also been waiting for Archer’s debut…. waiting, and waiting with no end in sight…


Straight onto my main question… what kind of stand does KAITO’s Cheerful version use? I personally think the first Nendoroid KAITO’s stand was a little unstable – I hope the Cheerful version uses a different stand.

I love reading your blog each and every day, and am cheering for Good Smile every day!

   - Anonymous

005

He uses an arm-type stand!

This is one of the early samples sent though of the Cheerful ver.! Both his new outfit and the original outfit both make use of the arm stand. I can’t wait to play around with him some more!

Thanks for cheering us on! We’ll do our best to not disappoint!! (`・ω・´)ゞ


A quick mail from a first year high school student!
I’m aiming to become a sculptor in the future, what should I do at this point to help me get there?
And what should I be studying at the moment!?

   - Yuki-chan

It’s a steep hill to climb!!

I think the most important thing at this point is to be ready to put in lots of effort and resolve into reaching your goal. I might be a bit of a shut-in, but at the moment just practice fine work with your hands! There are also a couple of comments from sculptors in the past about this… I’ve collected them all here:

 – Kuroyagi-san’s Letter Corner #55 –
http://gscmikatan.wordpress.com/2011/10/03/kuroyagi-san%e2%80%99s-letter-corner-number-55/

– Kuroyagi-san’s Letter Corner #17 – (Japanese Only)
http://ameblo.jp/gsc-mikatan/entry-10137297516.html

– Kuroyagi-san’s Letter Corner #6 – (Japanese Only)
http://ameblo.jp/gsc-mikatan/entry-10058817386.html


Hello Mikatan! ><
I’m a first year female student at high-school, and I’m worried about my future. I’m thinking about what course my life should take from here on, and I thought I’d ask you for your opinion on the matter.

Let me start with my question,
I’m interested in working in the figure production field, what departments exist at Good Smile Company which one could aim to work in? (for example sales, or planning departments)

I know I want to work in the figure world, and I really want to get a job at a figure company, but I need to know what options are available to me! I look forward to an answer!

   - Natsume

Hello! I love reading your blog every weekday! (`・ω・´)
I’m writing this mail in hopes that you can shed some light on this for me!

I’m a girl currently in high-school, and I’ve been interested in working for a figure company for some time. After reading Mikatan blog, that interest has changed into my dream.  I want to work for Good Smile Company in the future! But I think that if I mentioned this to my parents they wouldn’t react very well… so I thought I’d ask your opinion.

It’s still quite awhile till I’ll need to find work, but how much skill does one need to get a job at Good Smile Company? .(´・ω・`;) Sorry for all the questions, I’m sure you’re very busy, but I hope to see a response!

   - Saki

Currently the following departments exist at Good Smile!

Planning Department, Production Department, Manufacturing Department, Sales Department, General Affairs Department, Marketing Department (which includes the advertising team and the web team), New Business Department and GSR.

The work is filled with tough times and fun times! Good connections and good timing can help you get into any work if you put your heart into it.

My own personal answer to all those wanting to work here… always believe that there is something you are the very best at! Something like “If you’re looking for a logical solution, come to me”, “I can come up with more ideas than anyone”, “I can finish a coating faster than anyone else”, “I am the most loving person there is”, etc! It doesn’t matter what it is, the important thing is that you believe yourself to be the best! Don’t ever get down about it!

I hope the day comes where we can work side-by-side! (`・ω・´)ゞ


Louise! Louise! Louissssssse!!! Aaaah! Aaaah!!! Louise Louise Louise!!!!  Ahhh ….. sniff… sniff… What a lovely smell! I want to smell Louise Françoise’s beautiful pink hair! Aaah! No wait! I don’t want to smell it, I want to feel it!! Such smooth hair! Louise was so cute in the 12th volume of the novel! Aaaah!!! Aaaaaah! Plus the 4th season of the anime has jsut started! Aaah! Louise is so cute! Cute! SO CUTE! And even the 2nd volume of the manga has been released! ARRRGGG!! NYAAAN! GYAAAAN! Aaaaah!!!! But manga isn’t real?!… oh wait… neither is anime… or novels….

Does that mean Louise isn’t real?! Nooooooo!!! That’s impossible! It’s just impossible!! Just be quiet! I don’t need reality! Hang on a sec… that illustration of Louise… she’s looking at me! I swear she’s looking at me! And the Louise in the anime…. she just spoke to me! Hahahaha! There is still some hope for this world! Hahaha! Siesta! Henrietta! Tabatha!!! Ooooohhh! Bring me my Louise!!!

By the way, the 4th season of the anime has started now, so can we please have a resale of Louise?

   - Anonymous

She is going on resale!

A very entertaining message, I enjoyed it. ^^;

– Hobby Stock –
http://www.hobbystock.jp/item/view/hso-gcf-00000023


That brings this Kuroyagi-san’s Letter Corner to an end!

Thanks to everyone who sent in mail!!
I read through every single on of them!

As always, I’m always looking for more mail from readers!
If you have any questions, photos, product requests, want to talk about what you ate today, your thoughts about the end of the year… no matter what you want to talk about, send it through to me! Girls and boys both welcome!

         ____
       /      \
      /   ─    ─\    ”I won’t eat your mail!”
    /     (●)  (●) \
    |       (__人__)  | ________
     \      |r┬-|   ,/ | |           |
    ノ      `ー’´  \  | |           |
  /´                 | |           |
 |    l                | |           |
 ヽ    -一ー_~、⌒)^),-、  | |_________|
  ヽ ____,ノγ⌒ヽ)ニニ- ̄   | |  |

 
(゚∀゚) Mikatan Mail
mikatan-b@goodsmile.jp
 
 
Anyway, that’s all for today!
Tomorrow we’ll be taking a look at some lovely photos sent in by readers!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ

Nendoroid Minnie Mouse

GSC’s orientation session is this week!

001

The orientation session is held to introduce the company to students who will graduate next year!

Many of the current staff also head off to the session hall (all dressed up in suits), which causes the offices to become strangely quiet… But with nobody around, I’m free to go wandering around in search of prototypes to play with!!

002

Nendoroid Minnie Mouse!

Nendoroid Mickey Mouse was released to commemorate the 100th Nendoroid release, and now Minnie Mouse will also be joining the Nendoroid series to keep him company!

Just look at how many extras she comes with!!

Everything here is included with the Nendoroid! She doesn’t come with any replaceable expressions, but instead she comes with lots of extras to pose along side her! Let’s take a closer look…

003

First up is her dresser!

This dresser and little seat were specially drawn up for the Nendoroid version of Minnie – just what an actress needs! They were drawn by Disney’s famous artists specially for the Nendoroid, just like with Mickey! Unbelievable!!

I love the lamp shaped like a flower, and the pearls surrounding the big mirror! This is definitely enough to make most girls squeal in delight! The drawer of the dresser also opens and closes, so you can safely store away the little parts that are included.

004

A brush, hand mirror, lipstick and powder puff!

All these little goodies are marked with the ‘M’ logo as well! Minnie herself is lovely, but these little extras are simply amazing as well! They give off a kind of retro feeling that really suits Mickey Mouse, but at the same time they are all so stylish!

005

She can hold the lipstick and mirror!

This way she can be posed putting on her make-up just before the show! I don’t think you can see it very well in this photo, but her little finger on the right hand is absolutely adorable!

006

This is how she looks from the back!

Having finished her make-up, Minnie now takes a good look at herself in the mirror for a final check! She is posable, but only at certain points – the neck, shoulders, wrists, thighs and ankles are posable. It’s very easy to get her into some very nice looking poses!

007

The mischievous Chip and Dale!

I’m sure as any fans will know, Chip is the one with the black nose and darker fur, while Dale is the one with the red nose with lighter fur! Time for a little trivia from Akiyama-san!

     / ̄ ̄\
   /  ー  ー \ ← Akiyama
   |  (●) (●) |  
   |   (__人__)|  ”Chip and Dale are a part of Disney’s ‘Big 8’! The others are
   |   `i  i´  |    Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy, Pluto and Daisy!
   |   . `⌒   }    
   ヽ       }
    ヽ     ノ 
   /      ヽ 

008

They are helping out with the filming!

Dale is wearing a sun visor with ‘AD’ (Assistant Director) written on the top. Chip is wearing headphones, helping out the sound team! Those fluffy headphones and mike look great as well! And the cord wrapping around Dale is cute!

009

Displayed with Mickey Mouse!

Mickey came with a load of extra parts putting him in the director’s seat! If you combine it with all the parts that come with Minnie it really creates a nice scene! Minnie also comes with a script, which is even signed by her! You can really recreate the world of Disney right on your own desk!

002

Nendoroid Minnie Mouse!

 
She was put up on the Good Smile site today!! (`・ω・´)ゞ
If you have any preorder or sales queries, be sure to contact our partner shops!
 
But anyway, that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ゛
 
 
(C)Disney

Nendoroid Petite : THE IDOLM@STER 2 – Stage 01

Otanaka expressed his love for Idolmaster during the WonFes Broadcast!

001

For those who didn’t watch, he introduced the Nendoroid Petite Idolmaster figures on the live broadcast!

Thanks to the really compelling show he put on, it was not hard to crown him MVP of the live broadcast! I can just remember him shouting, ‘Just trust me!!’ – it was really convincing. 😛

002

These were the Nendoroids he loved so much…!

Nendoroid Petite:

THE IDOLM@STER2 – Stage 01

From the popular game where you produce your very own idols, ‘THE IDOLM@STER 2″ comes a set of adorable figures to join the Nendoroid Petite series!

Haruka Amami, Chihaya Kisaragi, Makoto Kikuchi, Yayoi Takatsuki, Mami Futami and Takane Shijou are all dressed up in their stage outfits and ready to perform! Plus there is one secret character as well!

     ____  
   /      \
  /   ─    ─\   ”Hmmm? Is the character on the top left the secret?”
/     (●)  (●) \ 
|       (__人__) | ))
/     ∩ノ ⊃   /
(  \ / _ノ |  |

N-No, of course not! ((((゚Д゚)))
It’s not the secret character!

It’s actually Mami! Unfortunately her head parts were being used when I was taking pictures, so I’m patiently waiting for them to finish up with them. I hope it’s soon!

003

This is how the look from the back!

I’m sure that competent producers will be happy to purchase a whole box of them without any complaints!

This set will be the first set of Nendoroid Petites to come in a box with eight figures!

I’m sure many of you know, but all the previous boxes of Nendoroid Petites always contained twelve figures, but the box for these will only include eight figures – making it cheaper as well!

Each figure is 500JPY, and one box will 4000JPY!

004

Haruka Amami & Makoto Kikuchi!

Even as small Nendoroid Petites, you can really tell the idols have grown up a little bit! Those who have played the game will know that the outfit used on these figures is the ‘Pink Diamond’ outfit!

005

Yayoi Takatsuki & Takane Shijou!

Compared to the previous Idolmaster Petite Nendoroids, the outfits have really reached a whole new level of detail! The gold paint used on parts of each outfit is really beautiful! (although it’s also a nightmare for the production team!)

a

Chihaya Kisaragi & Mami Futami!

Mami’s prototype is now ready! ━━━(゚∀゚)━━━!!!!
She really looks very confident in that pose! I love it! In contrast, Chihaya is in a much more gracious pose, which looks just as good! You can pose them on your desk for your very own personal live performance!

007

Time to play around a bit!

Mixing around some of the parts with the Nendoroid Petite Madoka Magica which are now on sale! Just by exchanging the head parts, you can create a very interesting scene like this one!

The sizes look a little bit off, but that’s just the difference between a prototype and the final figure. The final versions always come out a little smaller than the original prototypes they are based on.

008

Nendoroid Petite:

THE IDOLM@STER2 – Stage 01

These six are all available to collect, along with one secret character! Each costs just 500JPY. Just who is the secret figure? You’ll have to find out for yourself! 😛

Plus the second stage is on its way with a load more characters as well!!

They’ll be on the GSC website from tomorrow!
If you have any preorder or sales queries, be sure to contact our partner shops!
 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ゛
 
 
(C)窪岡俊之 (C)NBGI

figma Insane Black Rock Shooter

WonHobby Booth’s ‘Peel Off’ Corner!

014

It just looks like little dots from here, but the ‘BRS’ is made up of loads of tin badges!

There are a total of 4000 badges up on that wall… and as the day went on those attending the event could peel off one badge each… and once they were all gone…

011

Tada!━━(゚∀゚)━━!!!!

A lovely picture of Insane Black Rock Shooter appears!

WonFes was in fact the debut place of figma Insane Black Rock Shooter! I managed to get hold of the prototype today, so I’ll be taking a closer look!

002

figma Insane Black Rock Shooter!

From the anime series currently running on the Noitamina block, ‘Black Rock Shooter’ comes a figma of Insane Black Rock Shooter which will be included with the limited first editions of the Blu-ray Box & DVD Box sets. Enjoy the mystical charm of Insane Black Rock Shooter in figma form to posing her however you please!

The box-sets will be available from the 22nd of June!

They are currently up for preorder, and as they are a limited first edition – you’d better grab it before it’s too late! (`・ω・´)ゞ

003

This is how she looks from the back!

         ____
      /::::::─三三─\
    /:::::::: ( ○)三(○)\  ”She is huge!!”  
    |::::::::::(__人__)::::|
     \::::::   |r┬-|   ,/
    ノ:::::::::  `ー’´   \   

She really is incredibly big!
But more importantly she is incredibly cool!!

Shooter-chan has been transformed into lots of different figmas now, but I think this one is my bets so far! Of course the main reason for that is huke’s lovely design, but the craft work on the figure is also the most incredible so far! Looking at figmas like this really reminds me just how wonderful Max Factory are!

005

The Insane Canon Lance!

I didn’t think the photo alone would give a good feeling for just how big this weapon is, so I but a 30cm ruler underneath! 😛 With Insane-chan included, they are a little over 25cm in length!

004

The chain is also included!

Insane-chan was also introduced on the figma blog, and there you can see the default is to connect the chain into her back, but you can also pose it like this – it’s completely up to you.

Completely unrelated to the chain… but I have to say that I think that the hat on Insane-chan’s head looks kind of like a nurse’s cap, it looks great! I don’t think I’d want a nurse with such cold eyes though! 😛

006

The Insane Blade Claw!

You can’t really tell from the photo, but the edges of the sword are actually quite rough and very realistic! The same goes for the Insane Canon Lance as well as with her armor. Every single part is so very detailed – I can really see the passion that was put into making this figure!

008

Flame parts are also included!

You attach the flame by inserting it into the nurse cap (at least, that’s what I call it :P). Insane-chan has a beautiful purple flame in contrast to the normal blue flame we’ve seen on the normal Black Rock Shooter figures.

007

There are two expressions included!

A standard expression as well as a much more evil looking glaring expression. She has very unique looking eyes, they really have a strong impact! It’s unbelievable how wonderful this figma has come out… you can hardly even see the joints at all, which is ideal for a figma! I could make almost any pose, and still almost never see the joints.

009

figma Insane Black Rock Shooter!

Included with the TV anime ‘Black Rock Shooter’ Blu-ray BOX & DVD-BOX sets!

■ Black Rock Blu-ray BOX Shooter Blu-ray BOX (Limited First Edition)
TBR22200D / 29,400JPY
4 Video Discs included as well as a bonus CD/8 episodes in total/Color/Single-Layer/MPEG4 AVC/16:9 HD Widescreen 1920 x 1080p/Linear PCM 2ch Stereo

Black Rock Blu-ray DVD BOX (Limited First Edition)
TDV22201D / 25,200JPY
4 Video Discs included as well as a bonus CD/8 episodes in total/Color/Single-Layer/MPEG2/16:9 Anamorphic/ Dolby Digital 2ch Stereo
 
The box-sets will be available from the 22nd of June!
 
 
Head to a shop nearby or visit your favorite online store and preorder now! (`・ω・´)ゞ
 
 
(C)huke/B★RS Project

Nendoroid Menma and Nendoroid Kamui Kobayashi

You already saw them yesterday…

001

And you can grab these two from next week!

Miura from the production department was in charge of both of these Nendoroids! It must be so wonderful to finally meet the final versions of figures that you created! 😛 Let’s take a look how they came out…

004

Nendoroid Kamui Kobayashi!

A Nendoroid of the F1 race driver with an impressive track record, Kamui Kobayashi! Even when shrunk down to Nendoroid size, the coloring and details on his helmet and racing suit have all been faithfully preserved based on their originals – even the sponsors names are included on his outfit.

He also comes with extra parts that allow you to display him either holding his helmet, or wearing it – however you’d prefer to display him!

003

This is how the packaging looks!

Although it is less parts than normal, a lot more effort went into getting the figure to represent Kamui as closely as possible! The helmet and racing suit are so incredibly detailed – it’s simply outstanding!

006

Here is is wearing his helmet!

The helmet of course doesn’t work like a normal expression- you just replace the entire head with the head wearing the helmet!

But Kamui’s head and expression can still be removed!

That means you can put the hat on other characters like this! (Although, I don’t think you’d be able to display Kamui without his hat, it looks a bit strange. )

005

You can remove the joint to just display the helmet!

     / ̄ ̄\
   /  ー  ー \  ← Miura-kun
   |  (●)  (●) |  
   |   (__人__)|   ”This helmet alone cost a load to
   |   `i  i´  |     produce with all the colors and stamps!”
   |   . `⌒   }      
   ヽ       } 
    ヽ     ノ 
   /      ヽ 

I can’t give you an exact number, but you should think very high! 😛 It’s supposed to just be a ‘deformed’ figure as a Nendoroid, but it really came out as a collectible miniature!!

Plus as you can see, there is a much smaller helmet held in Kamui’s arms so you can pose him like this instead.

007

“Menma wants to race too!”

I swear I heard her say that the minute I put the racing suit on her! It’s so cute!! Kamui’s body is very different to the standard Nendoroid bodies, so it can be fun to place some different characters heads on it!

008

But anyway, let’s move onto the next Nendoroid…

Nendoroid Menma!

She is from the anime series ‘Ano Hi Mita Hana no Namae o Bokutachi wa Mada Shiranai’! Her real name is Meiko Honma – but she is better known as Menma – the lively, friendly member of the ‘Super Peace Busters’.

She comes with a variety of optional parts, including Menma’s diary filled with her memories and thoughts of all her friends, as well as some of her steamed bread – a very important part of the story!

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This is how the packaging looks!

She comes with a huge variety of parts to play with! Shuu-chan was in charge of the planning for this figure… and you can really see his love for the series went into it! There are even extra parts to recreate the colorful scenes in the opening and ending themes of the series!

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She makes use of a magnetic stand!

The other types of stands limited her posability too much, so in the end she got a magnetic stand! Personally I really love the magnetic stands! I put a little bit of tissue between the magnet and her hair to make sure that no damage is made to the figure. (You probably don’t need to, but I like to be safe!)

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The background of the box is beautiful!

This is the inside of Menma’s box! You can take it out and use it as a display background like this! Doesn’t it make Menma look absolutely lovely?! The parts on the sides also help to recreate the ED theme, so together they create a really stunning scene!
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Menma wearing Winter clothes!

Menma is well known for her white one piece, but have you ever wondered how she would look wearing something else? That’s what Nendoroids are for! There isn’t really space for Miku’s blue ribbon, but I just stuck it in between the opening between the front and back hair parts. It leaves a little opening along the line, but for photos from a distance like this it doesn’t stand out too much!

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Nendoroid #204, on sale from the 27th February!

Nendoroid Menma!

Nendoroid #201, on sale from the 28th February!

Nendoroid Kamui Kobayashi!

If you have any order or sales inquiries, please contact our partner shops!

goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version

Plus! I know it’s sudden, but…

We’re having a photo contest!

The photo must be of Nendoroid Menma!
First prize is a Nendoroid Menma signed by Ai Kayano!

The details will be put up on the GSC website and the blog at a later stage! It’s your chance to get hold of a super-rare item! 😛
 
 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ゛
 
 
 
(C)ANOHANA PROJECT
Copyright 2011-2012 by Sauber Motorsport AG Licensed through:
Global Sport IP GmbH, Munich – All rights reserved –

Nendoroid Nee-san

The GSC Offices after an event!

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Our battle has only just begun!

But even with WonFes past us, we still have lots of events planned in March and April! The table tennis table doesn’t look like it’s going to be usable any time soon….
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But anyway… today we’ll be looking at this upcoming Nendoroid!

From ‘+TIC ELDER SISTER’:

Nendoroid Nee-san!

From the Young Gangan manga series, ‘+TIC ELDER SISTER’ came an anime series, and now a Nendoroid as well! The anime was aired online, but is now being released on BD/DVD. This Nendoroid will be included with the BD/DVD!

You can still watch the series at the Young Gangan website!

It’s a real surreal series… definitely one I recommend! The long-awaited episode 4 is half loved by everyone here at GSC, and half not… personally I loved it! The third episode was painful, but I still loved it! It’s really interesting!

‘+TIC ELDER SISTER’
http://www.square-enix.co.jp/magazine/yg/introduction/plastic/

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This is how she looks from the back!

The model castle she wears on her head to show she is the head of the model club is easily visible from behind.  The other members also have models like this on their heads, but I really don’t know why. 😛

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An angry expression!

She looks really upset! 😛 This expression could easily be used on so many other Nendoroids as well! I’ll play around with a bit more later!

She also comes with an arm and clenched fist to compliment the expression!
The combination makes a really angry looking Nee-san!
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Stretched out arms and the ‘Olaolaolaola’ pose

Which, to explain briefly, is to put your bag between your thighs and then shake your bottom. Although, I’m sure many might be wondering WHY one would do this. 😛

If you really want to know, go watch episode 2!

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Next up is this colorful expression!

To explain briefly… I have no idea how to explain this! xD

Watch episode 3 of the anime!

I think the easiest way to put it, is that this expression emcompasses all of Nee-san’s annoying personality all together! The two hands actually each have a slightly different pose left and right, which is a nice little extra!

…and you’re not allowed to use this as an ahegao face! 😛
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Switching expressions with Nendoroid Menma!

Oooh! Nee-san looks so relaxed with Menma’s closed-eyes expression! Plus, as I expected, the angry expression suits other Nendoroids well. Menma even look cute when she is angry!

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Let’s try it on Nendoroid Kamui Kobayashi!

I was going to put Kamui’s expression on Nee-san as well… but I eventually came to the conclusion that may cause some problems… (in fact, just putting the upset face on Kamui might cause problems :P)

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Lastly some quick advertising!

+TIC ELDER SISTER Volume 5 goes on sale on the 25th February!

The Nendoroid is even advertised on the band around the manga! ^^

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From ‘+TIC ELDER SISTER’:

Nendoroid Nee-san!
 

She’ll be on the GSC website on the 24th!
She will be a bonus with the +TIC ELDER SISTER BD/DVD!

Head over to one of our partner shops and preorder your copy of the BD/DVD!
 
 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ゛
 
 
(C)栗井茶/スクウェアエニックス・「+チック姉さん」製作委員会
(C)ANOHANA PROJECT
Copyright 2011-2012 by Sauber Motorsport AG Licensed through:
Global Sport IP GmbH, Munich – All rights reserved –

1/7th Scale Yozora Mikaduki

The figures are back from the GSC Tetsujin cafe!!

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…but Tasshi is trying to take them away with him!

Hmm… he must be taking this one for it’s second paint layer! Just lemme borrow it quick, before you take her away! I want some photos!

A prototype figure war has broken out in the offices over the past few hours…. 😛

But everyone here is so cooperative, that even if it delays their work a little bit, they will often let me borrow it anyway! So I managed to grab this lovely figure for today!! (`・ω・´)ゞ

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From ‘Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai’:

1/7th Scale Yozora Mikaduki!

Yozora Mikaduki, the heroine with a harsh personality, but a beautiful body! The pose she is in really brings out both her stunning looks, as well as her personality through her crossed arms and that unimpressed expression.

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The pose is from the novel’s 1st volume!

It’s really a pose that brings Yozora really well. I can only imagine how hard it must be to sculpt a figure with only a single image from one angle to base the pose off!!

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This is how she looks from the back!

The sculpting is as always outstanding! Just look at the skirt fluttering in the the wind along with her long black hair. Or even the tips of her hair, which have the tiny pink ribbons tied up neatly! Being able to look at the figure from any angle you please is definitely what sets out a figure from any illustration! 🙂

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Size comparison!

Yozora is a nice big 1/7th scale, so I thought I’d compare her to some other figures so you could get a feeling for the size. First is Nendoroid Yozora Mikaduki! Even standing up on her sofa she isn’t even half the size of the 1/7th scale version! 😛

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Compared with 1/8th Scale Madoka!

Of course she is slightly taller because her is 1/7th scale! You can really feel the difference between the 1/7th scale and 1/8th scale when you compare them.

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She has a very sexy waist!

When looking from the front you don’t really notice it, but if you go down just a little bit you can see her stomach from under the blazer!
Wonderful! Absolutely wonderful!!

It gives a kind of realistic feeling to the figure when you get to see more depending on the angle you look at the figure from.

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A very unimpressed expression!

It’s quite unusual to see this kind of expression on a scale figure… but Yozora just had to have this kind of expression! It’s a nice balance of moodiness and cuteness!

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Walking up the stairs behind Yozora!

I trust that all the gentlemen that read the blog will know just where I’m coming from. A situation that many have seen (or want to see) when climbing stairs or riding the escalator. I had the chance to see something just like this the other day. 😛

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From ‘Boku wa Tomodachi ga Sukunai’:

1/7th Scale Yozora Mikaduki!


She is up for preorder already!! (`・ω・´)ゞ

If you have any preorder sales or inquiries, be sure to contact our partner shops!
 
 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow! (・∀・)ノ゛
 
 
 
(C)2011 平坂読・メディアファクトリー/製作委員会は友達が少ない
(C)Magica Quartet/Aniplex・Madoka Partners・MBS

Character Charm Collection: Puchimasu! (Io / Chicchan / Miura-san)

The GSC Tetsujin Cafe!

Hmm.. I think I’ve used this photo before… sorry.  I’m not really sure why I didn’t take more general photos like this one while I was there… I must have been too absorbed by all the wonderful figures around me! ^^;

goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version

Up until yesterday, lots of upcoming goodies were displayed here for everyone to enjoy!

Of course I saw them all at WonFes as well, but it was nice to see all the newest products without the whole rush! (WonFes gets so busy, even those who work at GSC hardly get a chance to look at the displays!) I didn’t even know that some of the products were on display… like this one…

001

Princess of the Crystal!

( ゚д゚) < “Survival Strategy!!!”

 
 
Welcome to Rock ‘n Roll Night——–
Welcome to Rock ‘n Roll Fight——–

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figma Insane Black Rock Shooter!

This was also on display for the first time at WonFes! I saw it nice and close up during the Live WonHobby Broadcast… she’s so cute! Plus that weapon is gigantic!!  😛

This figma will included with the TV Anime Black Rock Shooter Blu-Ray Box & DVD Box.

I think the figma review will be up for her soon… and should help convince those who are not sure whether to get her or not yet!  (`・ω・´)ゞ

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Anyways, that was a long introduction, but onto today’s main review!

Character Charm Collection: Puchimasu!

        ____
      :/      \:
     :/ ..:─:::::  \:   ”Huh? Are they multiplying?
   :/  ..::<●>::<●>\:   Well they’re cute, so who cares!”
   :|     (__人__)  |: 
   :\     ` ⌒´   _/:   
   : ノ           \ : 

That’s right! There were a whole bunch of new characters revealed at WonFes! But let’s look at them each in the sets they will be sold in!

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Set #1 : Makochi, Haruka-san & Yayo!

From ‘Puchimasu!’ a spin-off IDOLM@STER manga currently being serialized in Dengeki Maou comes a set of figures of the cute miniature idols creatures, here to join the Character Charm series!

I’ve already introduced these three on my blog before! They are up for preorder, so you can order your’s right now!

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Now for the main set that will be announced next!

Set #2 : Chicchan, Miura-san & Io!

It’s hard to tell from the photos, but size-wise they are a little bit smaller than Nendoroid Petite figures, but to be more exact…

Each charm is about 3cm high!

So they are in fact very tiny! Perfect as charms, but still very detailed for their size… just look at the details on the paintwork for Io’s clothes!

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This is how they look from the back!

Chicchan’s braided hair is incredible! And the other two have such long hair you can’t even see they are stranding up! I wanted to shout out all these things in the cafe, but I managed to restrain myself… 😛 All the figures stand on their own without any stands – something that I love to see!

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Playing with them on the table!

They’re so very small and cute to look at! And still fantastically sculpted! Just look how tiny her glasses are.  They are also very easy to carry out with you whereever you go!

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The 3rd set are these four!

Koami and Komami look so cute!! Not to mention Chihyaa! I can’t wait to get my hands on them!

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Character Charm Collection: Puchimasu!

Set #2: Chicchan, Miura-san & Io!


They will be on the GSC site tomorrow! (`・ω・´)ゞ

If you have any preorder or sales queries, be sure to contact our partner shops!

Now for some a quick notice corner! (・∀・)ノ


【Notice】

WonFes products are up for order!

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They are available until 21:00 tonight! (JST)

That means you only have a few hours to order your’s! Don’t miss out – you can place your orders at the GSC Online Shop:

GOODSMILE ONLINE SHOP

http://goodsmile-wf.ecq.sc/
 
 
But that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow! (・∀・)ノ゛
 
 
(C)窪岡俊之 (C)NBGI

Sakuma Drops: Character Vocal Series Ver.

Visiting the Good Smile Tetsujin Cafe!

      ____
 / ) ) )/ \  /\  
 {   ⊂) (●)  (●) \  ”I haven’t been out in a while! Time for some fun!”
 |   / ///(__人__)// \    
 !   !    `Y⌒y’´    |
 |   l      ゙ー ′   ,/
 |   ヽ   ー‐    ィ
 |           /  |

a

Lots of goodies are currently on display here!

All the lovely figures on display at WonFes are all lined up here now! Well… not all of them, but the ones that are here are all available to everyone to take  a look and enjoy! For more information, you can read up here:

http://www.goodsmile.info/post/en/3289/
c

But today we’ll be looking at this product!

Sakuma Drops: Character Vocal Series Ver. – Nendoroid Petite Rubber Strap Included!

A collaboration product between the delicious ‘Sakuma Drops’ and the Character Vocal Series!

Original illustrations and photos of the Vocaloids are plastered all over the Sakuma Drops tin for a lovely new colorful look, and each tin also includes an adorable rubber strap of one of the Vocaloid characters. There are a total of 8 different straps to collect, including one secret strap! Enjoy the delicious Sakuma Drops along with an extra dose of cuteness!

They were made for GSC’s 10th anniversary!

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There are two designs for the tins!

Anyone who knows Sunkus Drops knows it comes in this rectangular tin! There is one type with Nendoroid photos and another with illustrations of the Vocaloids. The contents are the same as always though – delicious candies filled with fruit juice  (`・ω・´)
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Each includes a rubber strap!

The rubber straps are of cute illustrations by the Nendoroid illustrator! So cute! There are a total of 8 to collect, including one secret one!

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Let’s take a quick look at each of them!

First up is Miku-san!

She is in a lovely sitting pose!! Plus she is holding the original Sakura Drops tin in her hand and is enjoying munching on one as well!

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Next up is Snow Miku!

She is also sitting in a kind of mirror image pose of the original Miku. The outfit is from last year’s Snow Miku! The winking face is absolutely adorable!

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Kagamine Len & Kagamine Rin!

These two look full of energy as always, with their arms up in the air! They look great posed next to each other like this!

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Luka Megurine, KAITO & MEIKO!

Take a look at Luka and MEIKO’s legs! Even in chibi form they are super sexy!! 😛 KAITO is standing up straight in a cool looking pose as normal!!

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There is one strap in each tin!

The strap that will be inside the tins is completely random, and doesn’t have anything to do with the two different designs. You just have to grab a tin and look forward to seeing which character you get inside!

The straps are also layered!  (`・ω・´)ゞ

They kind of bounce outwards toward you – you need to hold them for yourself to get the full effect!
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version

Let’s try it out as a strap!

Obviously the cord to use it as a strap is included!

You can connect it onto your bag or anything else like this, or just hang it somewhere in your room as a decoration!
A collaboration of Sakuma Drops, Vocaloid and Nendoroids!

A wonderful product to release as a 10th anniversary product!

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Sakuma Drops: Character Vocal Series Ver. – Nendoroid Petite Rubber Strap Included!

Presales will be available in May at…

■ Circle K Sunkus Stores
■ Circle K Sunkus Shopping Site,
‘KARUZAWA ONLINE’

You can also order a box of 8 at KARUZAWA ONLINE.

KARUWAZA ONLINE
http://karuwazaonline.jp/pc/00000003/goods2/30120200944/
I’m not certain if the box will include all the variations. I believe it will work like a box of Nendoroid Petites.

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And lastly… we’re at the GSC Tetsujin Cafe, so…

Ultimate Madoka!

 
Anyway, that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again next week! (・∀・)ノ゛
Sorry for the lack of updates this week! I’ll be going loads of figure reviews next week!! (I hope! :P)
 
 
 
(C)Crypton Future Media, Inc.
(C)Magica Quartet/Aniplex・Madoka Partners・MBS

Cheerful Japan! Part 10 : Nendoroid Tachikoma : Cheerful Ver. & Nendoroid Kamui Kobayashi: Ganbare Japan Ver.

The ping-pong table is in chaos!!

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With each day that passes, the offices get more chaotic!!

The image is actually of a WonFes display simulation! This time around Tori Bird from the planning department was in charge of the display, and he has done a great job! Those coming to WonFes can look forward to seeing the finished product soon!

But today we’ll be looking at some non-WonFes related products! 

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Nendoroid Tachikoma : Cheerful Ver.!

Nendoroid Kamui Kobayashi: Ganbare Japan Ver.!

The 10th month of Cheerful JAPAN! products brings these two lovely additions to the line-up! They are each sold separately though – they are not a set.

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Cheerful JAPAN!

http://www.cheerfuljapan.com/

The damage that has occurred during the March 11 quake in the Touhoku region is astounding, and in order to get over the destruction caused there is a lot that needs to be done, and lots of support that needs to be given. Good Smile Company has formed a support group named ‘Cheerful Japan’ which will strive to support the relief efforts for as long as possible. For at least 1 year we be releasing charity products among other efforts to raise donation money for the cause. To everyone who supports the Cheerful Japan movement – thank you, and know that your money is going where it is needed!

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Nendoroid Tachikoma : Cheerful Ver.

As a part of the 10th month of Cheerful JAPAN!, the adorable Nendoroid Tachikoma is coming back in a special ‘Cheerful Ver.’.! Along with all the optional parts from the original version, this version also has a number of extras to help him cheer everyone on!

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This is how the original Tachikoma’s packaging looked!

This new version includes all of these parts as well! Along with a whole bunch of new parts!
What kind of parts…?
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W-What is this?!

005

Production I.G illustrated the Cheerful Tachikoma for us!

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Cheerful Goods #1 : A Banner!

The writing and position is exactly the same as the illustration above. It reads ‘Hooray! Hooray! Japan!’ Of course Tachikoma can hold it in his little mechanical hand – he looks so cute holding it! (It might end up being attached to his arm, depending on how the production goes)

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Cheerful Goods #2 : A Folding Fan

Here we have Tachokoma waving hid folding fan which features the Japanese flag! It really gets my spirit up to see this… the manipulator arms of Tachikoma come in two types – open and closed.
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Cheerful Goods #3 : Pompons!

There were many people wondering how these would connect to Tachikoma – they actually just connect on like normal hands, they are not held in the actual manipulator hands of the figure. They are very small parts, so you’ll have to be careful not to lose them!

I really think Tachikoma with pompons is adorable!! (*´ω`*)
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And we have another product this month!
Nendoroid Kamui Kobayashi: Ganbare Japan Ver.

As a part of the ‘Cheerful JAPAN!’ project, Kamui Kobayashi is rejoining the Nendoroid world in a special ‘Ganbare Nihon!’ version! He comes with different head parts and a different helmet to the standard version, as well as an all new mini F1 car made specially for Cheerful JAPAN!

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The pullback racing car!

You can just see the driver’s helmet sticking out the top of the car! The back part of the car has that ‘wing’ part sticking out which really gives it that racing car feeling!

Plus, as I mentioned it’s a pullback car! (・∀・)ノ
Pull it back a little and let it go and it’ll go racing ahead! It’ll work on desks, or floors – wherever you want to have a little fun!
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He also comes with this white helmet!

You can pose him wearing it like this, or have him holding the helmet instead like the images above this one. This is the helmet that was used in the Malaysia Grand Prix and Chinese Grand Prix! Just like his suit, the helmet also has all the sponsor logos on it! They’re so tiny!

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Nendoroid Tachikoma : Cheerful Ver.

■ Tachikoma will cost 4000JPY. Delivery in Japan is free.
■ Overseas shipping will cost 2000JPY.
■ For each sale made, Good Smile Company will donate 1500JPY to aid relief efforts in Japan.

Nendoroid Kamui Kobayashi: Ganbare Japan Ver.

■ Kobayashi will cost 4000JPY. Delivery in Japan is free.
■ Unfortunately this product is not planned to be sold internationally.
■ For each sale made, Good Smile Company will donate 1000JPY to aid relief efforts in Japan.

Please take note of the following if you want to order:

[Purchases Within Japan]
This product can be ordered from the following stores:
Please see their respective home pages for more information.
・GOODSMILE ONLINE SHOP: http://cheerful-japan.ecq.sc/
・GOODSMILE ONLINE SHOP Mobile: http://cheerful-japan.ecq.sc/

■ Orders can be made between 10th February 2012 at 11:00 until the 27th February 2012 at 20:00 (JST).
■ Delivery within Japan is free of charge.
■ Delivery will be in June 2012.
■ Five figures per person will be available.
■ Payment will be via bank transfer or credit card. Cash-on-delivery will not be an option.
■ Products will be made to order. Please order within the dates specified above.
■ If you have any questions please email shop@goodsmile.jp. Japanese only.


[Overseas Sales]

・GOODSMILE ONLINE SHOP: http://cheerful-japan-global.ecq.sc

■ Orders can be made between 10th February 2012 at 11:00 until the 27th February 2012 at 20:00 (JST).
■ Five figures per person will be available.
■ Figures will be made to order.
■ Figures will start being sent out from June 2012. (Delivery time varies depending on location)
■ Payment must be done via credit card or Paypal. Please see http://cheerful-japan-global.ecq.sc/help for more information.
■ Your credit card will be charged on order, and not when the product is sent. This is due to the donation taking place before products are delivered.
■ Shipping will be charged at 2000JPY to all countries.
■ You may be charged additional fees such as import tax and customs duties when buying from overseas. Please be aware of this before ordering.
■ Payment will be in Japanese Yen.
■ Please mail shop.overseas@goodsmile.jp if you have any questions. English only please.

Orders will be taken at the GSC Online shop from 11th January at 11:00 and continue until the 30th at 20:00.

http://cheerful-japan-global.ecq.sc

         ____
       /       
      /  ─     ─  ”Products are made-to-order.
    /    (●)   (●)   Be sure to order within the designated time!”
    |     (__人__)    | ________
           |r┬-|   ,/ | |           |
    ノ      `ー’´    | |           |
  /´                 | |           |
 |    l                | |           |
 ヽ    -一ー_~、⌒)^),-、  | |_________|
  ヽ ____,ノγ⌒ヽ)ニニ- ̄   | |  |

 
And lastly, a quick notice!

Danny Choo, our good friend who introduces otaku culture all over the world will be doing a live broadcast on the evening of WonFes!

http://com.niconico.com/community/co1512817

It will be broadcast from niconico.com

This is of course the English version of Niconico Douga! Comments are therefore of course welcome in English! There will be lots of introductions of Good Smile’s upcoming figures!

The broadcast starts at 22:00 (JST) on the 12th February!!
 


 
From tomorrow the blog’s updates may become a little erratic, as I will be going to the Sapporo Snow Festival! The blog will have a break tomorrow, and the blog on Thursday might be delayed till late in the evening as well. But in the meantime I will be tweeting updates about the Snow Festival, so do be sure to check my twitter! (Although, it is in Japanese :P)
 
 
That’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again soon! (・∀・)ノ゛
 
 
(C)士郎正宗・Production I.G/講談社・攻殻機動隊製作委員会
 
Copyright 2011-2012 by Sauber Motorsport AG
Licensed through: Global Sport IP GmbH, Munich
– All rights reserved –
Nendoroid Kamui Kobayashi: Ganbare Japan Ver.