July 5, 2013 by Kahotan

Nendoroid Hatsune Miku: Yukata Ver. Natsutsubaki

There are currently events going on in both France and America!!

They’re both taking place from the 4th to the 7th July 2013!

France (Paris): Japan Expo 2013
America (LA): ANIME EXPO 2013

Both GSC and Max Factory staff are taking part in the events as well! The photo above is from the event hall at ANIME EXPO 2013!! This was from the day before the event so it’s quiet now… but I’m sure it’s super busy by now!

The Nendo I introduced yesterday ‘Nendoroid Maiko Madoka’ as well as the ‘Nendoroid Yukata Miku’ I’ll be introducing today are both on sale at these international events! Plus they will also be available at CCG Expo to be held in Shanghai at a later stage!! (`･ω･´)

These two have become the ambassadors for Japan at these overseas events!!

They’ll also be available for online order for those in other countries!

Online orders will start on Monday the 8th of July!
I hope that these reviews will help you decide whether you want them!

Nendoroid Hatsune Miku: Yukata Ver. Natsutsubaki!

From the ‘Character Vocal Series 01: Hatsune Miku’ comes a Nendoroid of Hatsune Miku wearing a all-new red yukata! The lovely yukata has a design which makes use of the ‘natsutsubaki’ flower, and her famous twin-tails are just as cute as ever! Even during the hot summer, Miku is ready to perform for everyone!

She comes with three different expressions including a standard smiling face, a charming winking expression and a chibi drooling face for all the delicious food she’ll find during the Summer festivals! She also comes with some extra items to ensure she has fun at the festival, including a candy apple and a balloon yo-yo!

Miku-san is wearing a yukata once again this year, and this time it’s a lovely vibrant red! (*ﾟ∀ﾟ*)

Last year she was wearing a darker blue, but this time she is in a bright red, which has a girlish, playful charm to it making her look adorable!

It also features lovely prints of the Natsutsubaki (Summer Camellia) flower all over it, which really brings out the festival feeling! Not to mention that she has the same flower in her hair as well!

This is how the packaging looks!

This one is a lot simpler than yesterday’s Madoka… but of course that also means she doesn’t cost as much!! Σ(=゜ω゜=）

She’s the kind of Nendoroid that really looks amazing just as is, so you really don’t need to swap out too many parts! But if you want to you can always borrow parts from other Nendoroids for even more fun!

This is how she looks from the back!

Ahh! Miku-san’s hair accessories matches with the color of the yukata so nicely!!

I’m guessing that the yellow sash is made in the image of the yellow center of the Natsutsubaki flower… she really puts so much thought into her wardrobe! ^^

“Have you been waiting?” “Nope, just got here!”

…is the scene I was trying to capture with this pose!
But no matter what you do, you should never make Miku-san wait!! ( ｀Д´)/

The winking expression has a little bit of a mature charm to it… just looking at it gets my heart start racing!!

“I… I want one of those!!”

It seems Miku-san has found something she likes!! I know I’d be happy to buy her absolutely anything she wanted!! The chibi ‘drooling’ face so cute it so cute that it makes me want to drool as well! 😛

“Here, want a taste?”

It seems the things she wanted were this balloon yo-yo and candy apple!! She looks really satisfied now that she has them!

The pattern on the yo-yo is amazing and the candy apple has a lovely shine to it that makes it look just like the real thing! Σ(゜∀゜*)

These can both be held by Miku, and are both items that are almost always found at Japanese Summer Festivals – so they suit the theme perfectly!

Madoka and Miku have swapped kimonos!

It’s amazing how much they change just by swapping out the bodies!! Being able to make changes like this so easily is one of favorite things about Nendoroids!

Looking at these two Nendoroids has reminded me just how lovely girls look in kimonos… If you decide to pick them up, then be sure to take them out with you to the Summer festivals! (=゜ω゜)ノ

 Nendoroid Hatsune Miku: Yukata Ver. Natsutsubaki!

She’ll be up for preorder at the GOOD SMILE ONLINE SHOP from the Monday the 8th July until Monday the 5th August 2013! Note that orders from the online shop are only scheduled to ship out in October 2013.

There’s a lot of time to order so there is no need to rush… but be careful not to miss out!! (`･ω･´)

– GOOD SMILE ONLINE SHOP –
http://goodsmile-global.ecq.sc

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

Outfit Plan: Suzunosuke © Crypton Future Media,INC. www.piapro.net

June 21, 2013 by Kahotan

2013 Wonder Festival (Summer): WonHobby Website!

Wonder Festival 2013 (Summer)!

Taking place on the 28th July at the Makuhari Messe!!

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There are only 37 days until WonFes!!

The GSC and Max Factory offices have slowly but surely started to get busier with WonFes preparations! What you can see here is a miniature simulation for the figure display space!

I can’t wait to see what products will be on display this year! (`・ω・´)

Today is also the day the the GSC & Max Factory joint booth ‘WonHobby 18’ website has been upped!

Let me have a quick look at the pages that are available so far! The limited edition WonFes products have also been announced, so be sure to take a look!! (・ω・)ノ

– Top Page –

http://whl4u.jp/

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The site has a gentle, relaxing design!!

Just by visiting the page, I feel all cool and refreshed even during these hot Summer days… （*´∀｀*）

The top page will let everyone know all the latest news, as well as passing on some tweets that use the WonFes hashtag! It’s a good place to check when you want a quick update on all the latest news!

By the way, ‘WonHobby’ refers the joint booth that GSC and Max Factory always have at the WonFes events! Note that in the WonFes catalog we are listed under this name, and not the companies names!

– Event Summary –

http://www.whl4u.jp/event.html

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WonHobby 18 will be filled with all sorts of fun!

This year’s theme is ‘all-sorts of fun!’ I’m not entirely certain what ‘all sorts’ refers to, but I’m sure we’ll find out!! Σ(゜Д゜;）

This page is a quick summary of all the event information! A booth map of the WonHobby booth will also be placed up on this page at a later stage! The both is pretty big this time around, so I think the map will actually br rather helpful! You might want to print it out and bring it along, or keep a bookmark to the map on your phone for quick reference!

– Product Information –

http://www.whl4u.jp/products.html

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The 2013 Summer WonFes Exclusives!

Nendoroid Nyaruko: Maid Ver.
http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/3948/

Nendoroid Petite: IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls –
Ranko, Uzuki and Mika + Live Stage Set
http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/3951/

Kurisu Makise: White Coat Ver.
http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/3953/

figma Mika Jougasaki
http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/3950/

figma Rika Jougasaki
http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/3952/

These five products will all be on sale at the event!! (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ

Ooh! This line-up has so many products from the games and series I love!! As a Passion-type Cinderella Girls player, this selection is priceless!! ｡･ﾟ･(ﾉД`)･ﾟ･｡

Plus there will also be various goods on sale at the event along with these figures! There will also be the Square-chan Smart Phone case that was popular last year as well as Nendoroid More goodies and GSR’s Diagonal Pliers!

– Online Sales –

http://www.whl4u.jp/buy_web.html
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Online orders for the WonFes products will be taken until the 5th August!

Orders will start on the day of WonFes, but they will only be shipped out to everyone in late November as they will be made to order. This gives a chance for fans who can’t make it to the event to still get their hands on these lovely figures! Plus there is one extra figure who isn’t available at the event, who can only be ordered online!!

Dekacchu Kirari Moroboshi ~Lovely Princess ver.~
http://www.goodsmile.info/product/en/3954/

A giant Kirarin!! Plus it’s the super cute version of Kirarin before she has special training! (not that she isn’t cute after the training! :P)

If you can’t make it to the event, don’t forget to get your orders in!

That’s all that’s on the site at the moment!

But the site will constantly be updated with all the latest information, so be sure to check the site every once in awhile! (At the moment it looks like it’ll be updated around each Friday!)

There are only 37 days to WonFes! All of us here at GSC are going to do our best to make it an event to remember!! (`･ω･´)

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

April 10, 2013 by Kahotan

A Visit to the Miyazawa Model Exhibition!

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I finally found the right place!

On the morning of the event I even confirmed the correct station with Nagaizumi from the sales team, but I somehow still managed to arrive at the wrong place first! (I went to the same place the event took place at last time!)

I wish I could say this was some kind of joke… but it isn’t. I really wish I could stop ending up at the wrong place for events… (‘A`)
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But anyway, I’m back on track with today’s blog!

Our booth included products from Phat! Company, Gift, FREEing and wing!

It’s been just a month or so since WonFes, but a couple of unpainted prototypes have been painted, and other new products have arrived! There are a couple of products that even debuted at this event!
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Well, what did you think? Is there anything that catches your eye?

Personally I’m very much looking forward to the new special ‘Kumeta-sensei Color Ver.’ of Nendo Zetsubou-sensei! The monochrome coloring looks so good!! I have to get my hands on him! (´･ω･`)

I’m also very interested in Nendo Monomi from Danganronpa, and Totokin from the Idolmaster Cinderella Girl’s Minicchu line-up! I can’t wait till they’re officially announced!

But moving on, all the photos from here are products from other companies that I thought looked interesting! (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ
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That’s it!!

Just looking at everything again gets me really excited! There were many products from other companies that were such great ideas, which was very encouraging to see!

Personally I thought the truss and lights set looked really amazing. Also, the quality of the clothes on AZONE’s dolls were incredible! (the photo with the two girls with cat ears)

Seeing so many high quality products and such a playful spirit from everyone at the event really shows the real charms of the hobby world! Being here and seeing all these lovely products creates a feeling that I hope to never forget! I hope that the feeling comes across in my photos in some way or another for everyone else to enjoy!

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

March 25, 2013 by Kahotan

A Visit to the Tokyo International Anime Fair!

The Tokyo International Anime Fair…

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Was held at the Tokyo Big Sight!

Nitohei was part of the event staff for the day, and first went through to the Makuhari Messe!! When he reached the Messe, he called the other staff and said “I’m in front of The New Otani hotel, where is everyone?”. That was about the time he realized he was in the wrong place. 😛

Always be sure to confirm the location of any events before you visit! I’m not really one to talk though, I’ve done similar things in the past…
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The GSC & Ultra Super Pictures Booth!

This time around GSC had a combined booth with the anime production company ‘Ultra Super Pictures’. The day I went was a business day, which means that the only people at the event were those involved in the industry. Because of the this the halls were very open and easy to maneuver – Although I’m sure that Saturday was considerably crowded!

In the left of this photo you can see Chamber-tan! He’s so cute!!
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These were the booth handouts!

The handout included a bag with the Ultra Super Pictures logo printed on it, and inside the bag were a couple of flyers, a Nendoroid calender and some stickers!

We often have little handout bags like these for customers at events – it’s not much, but I hope everyone will make use of the goodies inside!
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Moving clockwise from the entrance!

A wall of the adorable Miku Nendo Petites is the first thing to greet everyone!

It wasn’t quite the size as the huge booth at WonFes, but there was still enough space to have a few new figures on display for everyone to enjoy!
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The brushed-up Deep Sea Girl Miku!

Since her debut at WonFes she’s been through a couple of little changes to make her even cuter than before! Compare this to the WonFes photos and see if you can spot the differences! 😛

She was on display with a beautiful blue lighting that suited the name ‘Deep Sea Girl’ perfectly. It’s not quite the same as the fully colored figure, but it definitely gave the unpainted version a little extra charm!
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Moving further along the booth!

On the right wall we had a number of anime production goodies from companies related to Ultra Super Pictures, which gave everyone a nice introduction to the company! I’m certain you can expect lots from them in the near future!!

Then on the left you can see all the tower cases… with new figures on display!!
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From Sasami-san@Ganbaranai:
Nendoroid Sasami Tsukuyomi!

I believe this is the TAF was the very first time we’ve seen her painted version! Both her curly hair and hat are so cute… I can’t wait to get my hands on her!!
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From Da Capo III:
Nendoroid Ricca Morizono!

Da Capo III is another one of the series airing at the moment, and the OP theme ‘Sakura Happy Innovation’ is super popular in the GSC Offices! (`・ω・´)

Ricca is one of those Nendoroids that actually has a noticeable bust even in Nendoroid size, and altogether she looks incredibly well sculpted!
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From Accel World:
The 1/7th Scale Kuroyukihime!

This is one very sexy looking Kurohime-san, and she’ll be up for preorder soon!! As soon as I’m able to get my hands on the prototype I’ll be doing a review!!

I want to see what’s underneath Black Lotus’ hands!!! 😛
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Today I’ll be focusing on this display case!
The main reason I came to the event today was to get blog pictures of one of these figures…

On the upper level we have Belldandy with Holy Bell
On the lower level we have 1/8th Scale Racing Miku: 2012 ver.!
Both are already up for preorder!!

But there is still one other figure on the lower level here, which I’ll be going a quick review of right here from the event… let’s go!! (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ
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From FAIRY TAIL:
1/7th Scale Lucy!

From the popular manga and anime series ‘FAIRY TAIL’ comes a 1/7th scale figure of the beautiful celestial mage, Lucy Heartfilia! The figure is based on the cover illustration of the 9th volume of the manga, which features Lucy in a lively pose holding out a key in her hand with her skirt fluttering about.

Certain parts are also replaceable for a slightly different pose, but no matter how you choose to display her you’ll always be able to enjoy her energetic personality!

Hm?! Some parts are replaceable?!

Aaah!! I can’t switch parts here at the event! I really want to know what the alternate parts are… I’ve been trying to find the separation lines to try find out what can be swapped… (I really don’t know!)
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Oooh!! (*ﾟ∀ﾟ*)

This time I have to take pictures around the glass case – it’s quite frustrating not being able to spin her around myself for different angles! Even so, I’m still trying to get the best angles I can!!
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She has such cute eyes!

Her upturned eyebrows and wide grinning smile all look just like the original illustration the figure is based on! The way her hair seems to be drifting about in the air also gives the figure a nice dynamic feeling!
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Lovely looking thighs!

I guess that this photo actually shows slightly more than just her thighs… it definitely shows off her beautiful curves!

Her skirt is posed rather boldly, fluttering up to the side – which meant I wasn’t really able to take photos from the back… but I was able to enjoy her from the back myself, and I’m certain that fans won’t be disappointed!!
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The small accessories are also very detailed!

Just look at detail on the belt and pouch! Not to mention how amazing each and every one of her fingers looks!

Particularly with a pose and outfit like this, I think most people tend to focus on the main body and overlook the smaller things. However this is certainly one figure that doesn’t end with just the body – everything is incredibly detailed!
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From FAIRY TAIL:
1/7th Scale Lucy!

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

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

February 15, 2013 by Kahotan

Hobby Maker Product Exhibition: Winter 2013

Even with WonFes over, the sales and advertising teams are still hard at work!

They’re all busy with this event…
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All the new products introduced at WonFes are on display at:
The Hobby Maker Product Exhibition!

This event is held at the GSC Tetsujin Café for all those involved in the industry that didn’t have a good view of all the products at WonFes! The first day is strictly business only, but the figures will all be on display until the 17th for everyone else! (Please note that some products won’t be on display after today!)

If you want to see the latest figures up close, be sure to stop by!

– Good Smile x Karaoke no Tetsujin Café –
http://www.gstjcafé.jp/

I also snapped a couple of photos, so here they are!

These pictures were with a compact digital camera instead of my usual SLR, so they’re not the best quality. Sorry!

Let’s first look at GSC and Max Factory Products!
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Everything from here…
Are products from other companies distributed by GSC!

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Ega-chan’s White Tights version is currently up for order!

The deadline is 21:00JST on the 18th February!! Don’t miss out!

– Good Smile Online Shop –
http://goodsmile-wf.ecq.sc/top/wf17frefigjp00001.html

And everything else from here…
Are interesting products from other companies!

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That brings my Hobby Maker Product Exhibition report to an end!

But there is still something missing…!
Where are the cute little Vocaloids?!
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Nendoroid Petite: Hatsune Miku Selection!

A second set following on from the previously released Nendo Petite: Vocaloids!

They’ve all posed in completely new ways for this new set!

Plus this set also includes popular fan-made characters!

In the back you can see the “Servant of Evil Len’, ‘Daughter of Evil Rin’ and ‘Akahitoha Luka’… but that’s not all!

There are three more characters in the set which I’ll show starting next Friday on the blog!

You’ll have to wait and see if a certain character you’re hoping for is included! (If it isn’t, sorry!) Who could they be?! You’ll have to wait and see next Friday!

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

February 13, 2013 by Kahotan

The WonHobby 17 Exclusive Products are Available for Order Online until 21:00JST on the 18th February!

Wonder Festival 2013 (Winter)!

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A big thanks to everyone involved!!

Plus a big thank you to everyone who came by the WonHobby booth or the Max Factory 25th anniversary booth… as well as to everyone who watched the live broadcast! I hope you were all able to enjoy yourselves at this year’s first WonFes!!

Now I’d like to calm things down and just relax a bit… but that isn’t going to happen! There are so many new products that I can’t wait to take a closer look at, not to mention there are still many more events to come!
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Today’s blog is mostly just a big notice!

A summary of all the products available online now!

I know a lot of people put this off thinking there is a load of time, but then often end up forgetting to order… (me included…) If you see something you like in this blog post, I recommend ordering it before it’s too late!!

Orders close at 21:00JST on the 18th February!
(Excluding Glenfire)

GOOD SMILE ONLINE SHOP (WONDERFUL HOBBY LIFE FOR YOU!!)
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/
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Homura Akemi: you are not alone.

Price: ¥9000
Number Available: Made to Order. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: Late June 2013

From the anime series ‘Puella Magi Madoka Magica’ comes a 1/8th scale figure of Akemi Homura, the time traveler who fought in endless parallel worlds. She comes with a number of replaceable parts which allow you to display her in all sorts of different poses.

You can choose to display her holding her bow with Madoka’s red ribbon in her hair, just as she looked in episode 12, or instead you can display her with braids and glasses while holding a bomb or golf club, as she was in episode 10. Enjoy both the confident and the shy Homura, all with just one figure!

– Good Smile Online Shop –
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/top/wf17gscscawd00001.html
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Nendoroid Snow Miku:
Strawberry White Kimono Ver.

Price: ¥4000
Number Available: Made to Order. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: Late June 2013

Designs for the 2013 Snow Miku were submitted by fans to the piapro website and then a winner was chosen by viewers during a NicoNico Live Broadcast. The winning entry was an illustration of Snow Miku with a slightly more mature air, wearing a beautiful white kimono – which has now been transformed into a Nendoroid!

Her cotton veil can be removed, and she comes with two different hair styles to choose from when it is removed – you can display her with either her trademark twintails, or instead with her hair tied up. Sitting parts are also included for a more relaxed pose, and she also comes a number of items for a snowy day, including an umbrella, a toothpick and a snow bunny.

– Good Smile Online Shop –
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/top/wf17gscnenwd00001.html
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Nendoroid Petite: IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls –
Anzu, Kaede and Rika + Live Stage Set

Price: ¥4000
Number Available: Made to Order. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: Late June 2013

From the popular social game ‘IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls’ comes a set of Nendoroid Petites featuring Anzu Futaba, Kaede Takagaki and Rika Jougasaki all wearing their S Rare+ outfits!

The set also includes a huge stage pedestal which can be put together in a number of different ways to recreate the LIVE Battles from the game! Not only can you change the positions of the stage objects, you can also place up to five different idols on stage!

– Good Smile Online Shop –
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/top/wf17gscnepwd00001.html
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figma Rin Shibuya

Price: ¥3500
Number Available: Made to Order. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: Late June 2013

From the hugely popular social game ‘IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls’ comes a figma of Rin Shibuya in her school uniform.

· Using the smooth yet posable joints of figma, you can act out a variety of different scenes.
· A flexible plastic is used for important areas, allowing proportions to be kept without compromising posability.
· She comes with a standard expression, a smiling expression as well as bashful smile with closed eyes.
· Special parts to display her with one hand in her pocket are also included.
· Her pet dog ‘Hanako’ is included, together with a leash to take him out for walks.
· An articulated figma stand is included, which allows various poses to be taken.

– Good Smile Online Shop –
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/top/wf17maxfigwd00001.html

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figma Anzu Futaba

Price: ¥3500
Number Available: Made to Order. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: Late June 2013

From the hugely popular social game ‘IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls’ comes a figma of Anzu Futaba wearing casual clothes.

· Using the smooth yet posable joints of figma, you can act out a variety of different scenes.
· A flexible plastic is used for important areas, allowing proportions to be kept without compromising posability.
· She comes with a yawning expression, a forced smile as well as a dead tired expression with closed eyes.
· A number of extra parts are included, such as her favorite plushie bunny, a game console and some candy.
· Tear-shaped stickers are included which can be used as tears on the yawning expression, or sweat on the tired expression.
· An articulated figma stand is included, which allows various poses to be taken.

– Good Smile Online Shop –
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/top/wf17maxfigwd00002.html
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Tomokazu Seki: Glenfire

Price: ¥4000
Number Available: 100 available. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: Late March 2013

The 12th figure to join the Tomokazu Seki series comes from the Ultraman Zero Movie – the pirate bodyguard of flame, Glenfire! The sculpting of the impressive flames burning atop his head together with the confident pose create a figure that fans are sure to love!

– Good Smile Online Shop – (Japan Only)
http://goodsmile-wf.ecq.sc/wf17maxsfbjp00001.html
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Dekacchu Kirari Moroboshi

Price: ¥4000
Number Available: Made to Order. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: June 2013

From the popular social game ‘IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls’ comes a special version of one of Phat! Company’s new Minicchu series, a much bigger ‘Dekacchu’ version of Kirari Moroboshi! She is approximately 4 times bigger (220mm) than the Minicchu version, so fans can enjoy even more cute power from the lovely Kirari!

– Good Smile Online Shop –

http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/top/wf17phaothwd00001.html
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figma Egashira 2:50 – White Tights ver.

Price: ¥3800
Number Available: Made to Order. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: Late June 2013

Enjoy the legend of Egashira 2:50 in your very own hands with this special limited edition version of figma Egashira 2:50, wearing his famous white tights – the same white tights that were sold on Yahoo! auctions for about 280000 yen as a charity auction to aid those affected by the Tohoku earthquake. You can also display him together with the standard black version for amazing contrast which you can enjoy forever!

– Good Smile Online Shop –
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/top/wf17frefigwd00001.html
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WWR Hara Patrol

Price: ¥15000
Number Available: Made to Order. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: Late June 2013

As a part of threeA’s popular ‘World War Robot’ series comes a new addition to the JDF colorway released by GSC. This time its a set of two which includes both the GRUNTS and Square Mk.2.

The GRUNTS figure has long been requested by fans and is now finally available. His outfit is incredibly detailed, featuring packs that can open and close as well as highly realistic paintwork to give him a worn appearance. The Square Mk.2 is different to the original Square as it has multiple joints in his legs, allowing for more active poses. The legs can be extended out for a more intimidating effect, or instead kneeling down for a cuter appearance – pick the style you prefer!

– Good Smile Online Shop –
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/top/wf17maxthrwd00001.html
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WWR JDF Square SMART PHONE CASE

Price: ¥4000
Number Available: Made to Order. Max 3 per person.
Est. Delivery: Late June 2013

The popular ‘Square’ model from threeA has been transformed into a smart phone case designed for the iPhone5! The case is much more than just a print, as it features the characteristic mouth of the Square as well as the amazing rusted paintwork seen on threeA figures!

The design is by Ashley Wood and the paintwork by threeA’s skilled craftsmen, ensuring the same amazing quality you’ve come to expect from threeA products!

– Good Smile Online Shop –
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/top/wf17throthwd00001.html

10 different exclusive products!!

There are so many different products – more than I think we’ve had at any previous WonFes!! We have cute girls, Ega-chan and even threeA for a very varied line-up! You can find the reviews I did for these products here:

– Winter 2013 WonFes Products –

■ [GSC] Homura Akemi: you are not alone.
■ [GSC] Nendoroid Snow Miku: Strawberry White Kimono Ver.
■ [GSC] Nendoroid Petite: IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls –
Anzu, Kaede and Rika + Live Stage Set
■ [MAX] figma Rin Shibuya
■ [MAX] figma Anzu Futaba
■ [MAX] Tomokazu Seki: Glenfire
■ [Phat] Dekacchu Kirari Moroboshi

Orders close at 21:00JST on the 18th February!

GOOD SMILE ONLINE SHOP (WONDERFUL HOBBY LIFE FOR YOU!!)
http://goodsmile-wf-global.ecq.sc/

If you’re planning to buy something, make sure you don’t forget to put your order in before the deadline!
Anyway, that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ゛

February 8, 2013 by Kahotan

Just 2 Days Until WonFes! A Look at the GSC Offices Before the Event!

I’m back from my trip to Sapporo!

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A picture of the 2013 Snow Miku sculpture!

This is now the 4th Snow Miku sculpture since the tradition started, and once again I got the chance to come by to the Snow Festival and see her! The kimono definitely gives her a slightly different feeling compared to the previous years, but it’s still just as amazing as ever – the sculpting of the fringe and kimono sleeves is amazing – and the little snow bunny is so cute!

Anyway, the Snow Festival was amazing fun, but at the same time the Good Smile offices are bustling with activity for this weekend’s WonFes!

Today I’ll show a collection of photos of how the offices look at the moment, together with a few shots from Sapporo! (`･ω･´)ゞ
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Only 2 days left until WonFes!!

Tomorrow the staff will be headed to the Makuhari Messe to start setting everything up! If I have the time, I’ll try to do a twitcast of the setup – keep an eye out on my twitter for more info!

– Mikatan’s Twitter –
https://twitter.com/gsc_mikatan (Japanese)

My WonFes product reviews can all be found here:

Also…

Most of the new figures on display at the WonHobby 17 booth will also be introduced on this special page!

The page will open at about 9:30AM on Sunday!

Even if you can’t make it to the event, you can still enjoy finding out about the latest figures!

– New Figures Page –
http://whl4u.jp/newproducts/

Anyway, that’s all for today!

I hope to see you all at the event on Sunday!
I’ll have a special blog up on Sunday at about 17:00!! (・∀・)ノ゛

February 7, 2013 by Kahotan

Painting a Nendoroid Expression Part 8: Applying the Gradient

Just a few days ago…

Oda P: “You should finish up your expression at WonFes!!”
Aki: “Ooh, that’s a great idea! Let’s do it!”

Nendoroid Painting, Day 8!

goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
I was hoping to finish this up before WonFes!!

But now apparently I’m going to be finishing my expression at the event instead… I’m not entirely certain how things managed to end up like this. :/

But… I can’t take an airbrush to the event, so I’ll need to finish up with that section now, and then finish everything else at WonFes…!

You can find the previous posts in this series here:
Painting a Nendoroid Expression Part 7: Preparing to Apply the Gradient
Painting a Nendoroid Expression Part 6: Pupils and Shadows
Painting a Nendoroid Expression Part 5: Mixing Colors and Eyebrows
Painting a Nendoroid Expression Part 4: Preparing to Apply Color
Painting a Nendoroid Expression Part 3: Continuing to Paint the Eye Borders
Painting a Nendoroid Expression Part 2: Painting the Eye Border
Painting a Nendoroid Expression Part 1: Basic Knowledge & Tools
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
The ‘chip’ to test expressions on!

In the last post I managed to get as far as painting the base colored pupils onto this white plastic board called a ‘chip’!

Now I’ve placed masking tape over the test eyes and cut open holes in that tape to mimic the effect that I created on the actual expression – once I’ve tested the color, I’ll peel off the tape to see how the gradient looks!!
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
These are the girls working on expressions!

They featured briefly in my previous post as well – Nendoroid expressions are primarily done by these two! I really feel bad stealing away the airbrush during this busy time before WonFes… I hope it isn’t needed too urgently for anything!
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
This is the lacquer paint I mixed up last time!

I was using enamel paints while working with the brush, but the airbrush uses lacquer paint. This is the color I mixed up with lacquer paints last time, which was kindly put into a little bottle for me which reads ‘Mikatan’s Miku Gradient’. Somehow that makes me feel all happy inside!
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
The airbrush!

Back during the NicoNico Super Kaigi I played around with one for about 5 seconds, but this will be my first time actually using one. I’m quite nervous…
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
Here’s how to use the airbrush!

(1) Add the paint into the cylinder part.
(2) Spin the knob at the back to change how the brush sprays.
(Either over a wide area, or in a specific area)
(3) Press the switch while pulling back.

That’s the absolute basics! It doesn’t sound very difficult, but much easier said than done!
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
The consistency of the paint is very important!

In the previous post you saw me mixing the paint with lacquer thinner to get the right consistency, but if you use too much paint it creates paint spots like these! I’m glad I didn’t end up leaving these spots all over my actual expression…

If this happens, you simply need to add more lacquer thinner to thin out the paint… but if you add to much, then paint will become too thin which will instead cause the coat to become uneven. You need to have the perfect ratio!
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
Painting over one of the test eyes!

This will let me check exactly how it’ll look on the final product!

I’d love to have had more practice with the airbrush, but I really don’t have the time… so I just jumped straight into it! 😛
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
W-Well… (‘A`)

I drew the pupils so big that I can’t really tell how the gradient looks at all. In retrospect, I guess I should have made the pupils relatively small, so you can see the gradient clearly in comparison.

Also, it’s not that easy to see in this photo, but the color isn’t matching up as well as it should – you can actually see it better in the previous photo. It seems like the green is a little too strong, so I’ll need to mix the colors a little bit more.
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
Transferring the remaining paint into a paper cup…

goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
Mixing colors once again!

The green was too strong, so I’ll be adding a little more blue and black.
I also randomly added a dab of white! 😛

Just one drop of paint can change the color a lot! (`･ω･´)

It might look like I’ve poured in quite a lot here, but that’s just the paint spreading out. I really just put in a few drops. Just by looking at it, you can’t really even see that the color has changed at all once it’s mixed up.

But once you spray it on with the airbrush, you can tell it has changed a bit! (maybe if you’re a pro you can tell without spraying it out…) It seems much harder to mix the right color compared to the enamel paint.

But it’s actually a lot of fun!! (*ﾟ∀ﾟ)=3
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
The test chips!

After practising with the airbrush and mixing different colors a bit, I really can’t help but want to play with it some more! There were quite a few times that I almost forgot to add lacquer thinner or added too much by a mistake. It’s taken me a whole two hours to get up to this point today… it’s quite a time consuming exercise – particularly trying to mix up the perfect color!

Apparently the pros like Kawapon-sensei need to get the color perfect in less than an hour…
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
Now it’s time for the real thing!!

Most people think that you need to move quickly with an airbrush, but in this case it’s apparently best to not rush, and rather apply the color slowly. If I remember correctly, Oda-P colors both the eyes at the same time, but I think I’ll do them one at a time just in case I mess something up.

After stopping to take a look, it looked a bit like the gradient line was slightly tilted. It’s important to stop and check every so often to make sure it still looks alright, using the masking tape as a guide is quite useful.
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
Gradient, complete!!

I did it! I can see there are a few areas where the paint is still a little light (particularly the inner area of the left eye), but if I try to fix this I’ll end up destroying the gradient I’ve worked so hard to create… so I’m going to leave it as is for now.

I’m too much of a chicken to risk all my hard work. 😛
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
Peeling off the masking tape…

This was a really nerve-wracking part for me!

It felt like I’d end up ripping off the paint if I wasn’t gentle… so I made use of some tweezers and slowly pulled it off…
goodsmile company Mikatan's Blog English Version
It’s done!!!

B-But… there is a strange looking line along where the masking tape was!

It seems I stuck the masking tape on before the clear lacquer had dried, causing some of it to be pulled off with the tape…

Arrg!! I thought I had done so well too!! xD

But it was my own fault, so I guess the only person I have to blame is myself.

I’ll be continuing this… at WonFes!

At the WonFes booth I’ll be working on the highlights and the ‘crescent moon’ shape underneath the eye! I also won’t be able to use thinner, so I’ll be playing around with all new paints too! 😛

I know there are many people who want to meet with me, but it’ll be difficult to see everyone. Either way, I’m going to put my schedule here, so that everyone can see it…

10:00: My expression will be on display close to the sales corner. Those lining up to purchase things can take a look while they wait! I’ll first be at the WonHobby Stage for the opening greeting, then I’ll be wandering around the event hall myself. I’ll have some chocolates for everyone who finds me and says hi! (Until I run out of chocolates.)12:30: Lunchtime!

13:30: Preparing to paint.

14:00: I’ll be working on the highlights and ‘crescent moon’ paintwork at the figure sales corner. I’ll be using inflammable paints to make sure everything is safe! I might pop out here and there to appear on the live broadcast.

17:00: Hopefully the event is coming to an end…?

Just three days left!!

I better get all the tools ready, so I don’t end up forgetting anything! I think I’d best get some practice with the new kind of paint as well… eek!
But anyway that’s all for today!
I hope to see you all again tomorrow!! (・∀・)ノ゛

February 6, 2013 by Kahotan

Tomokazu Seki: Glenfire, WonFes Goods and Handouts!

Only 4 days left until WonFes!!

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Laugh or cry, there are only 4 days left! (`･ω･´)

But at the same time, there are still a whole 4 days to get through! Here we have a line-up of all the figures I’ve taken a look at so far!

You can find all the previous reviews linked in the list above!
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This is a bag filled with one of each product!

It’s quite a lot to carry around, so we are providing the big bag you see here for those who buy many products! An order sheet will be used at the event, where you will need to circle the items you want. You can see an example of the sheet on the event sales page – simply circle “1” or “2” on the sheet. Everyone is limited to 2 of any figure!

– Event Sales –
http://www.whl4u.jp/buy_kaijou.html
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Alright, let’s move onto the very last WonFes product review!
From Ultraman Zero: The Revenge of Belial:
Tomokazu Seki: Glenfire!

The ‘Tomokazu Seki’ series has now reached it’s 12th release!!

Even with all the other work he does, Seki-sama still manages to find the time to sculpt these figures… it’s amazing!! Glenfire looks absolutely divine!!
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This is how he looks from the back!

Take a close look around his hips and thighs! The creases in his outfit have been sculpted so perfectly!!

Plus from 13:10, Seki-sama himself will be selling the figure!!

This has also become a standard every year at WonFes, but this time around it will be done at the ‘Max Factory 25th Anniversary Booth’! If you’re just interested in picking up the product, you can just get hold of it at the sales corner. But if you’re a Glenfire fan or a fan of Tomokazu Seki, I definitely recommend coming to the Max Factory booth by at around 13:10!

– Event Outline –
http://www.whl4u.jp/event.html
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Now let’s take a look at some of the other goods that will on sale!

IDOLM@STER Cinderella Girls: Energy Drink!
It’s a real energy drink!!

All the Cinderella Girl’s players can get a boost of energy for just ¥200, with up to five available per person.

If you don’t think that will be enough energy for you, there will also be cases of 30 on sale. I’m confident these energy drinks will get me through the day!!
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Sampling the energy drink!

The Cinderella Girls players here in the offices all tested the Energy Drink!

Apparently it tastes like… an energy drink! (`･ω･´)

It also provides all the energy needed to keep someone like me running till the early hours of the morning! 😛
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The WWR JDF Square SMART PHONE CASE

The JDF Square-chan has been transformed into a smartphone case… it’s so cute! This will be on sale at the Goods Corner at WonFes!
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This is how it looks on an iPhone5!

3A’s unique rusted paintwork looks just as great as usual! The little beak-like mouth of Square-chan also pokes out just a little just like the model! It’s a little figure in itself!

As a side note, this cover unfortunately doesn’t fit the iPhone 4 or 4S, but even so I think it’s worth grabbing if you’re a Square-chan fan! I have a 4S, but I’m still going to get one! (=゜ω゜)ノ
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Nendoroid More: Clip and Suction Stands – Orange!

These special versions of the Nendoroid Clips and Stands are going to be sold at various events, so WonFes is just their first debut! They are colored orange, Good Smile Company color!

The clear versions you can see to the lower left are trial products that are currently in development. They’re still quite far off being officially announced, but the are planned for release, so look forward to them!
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WonFes free handouts!

The latest Nendoroid & figma catalog as well as a Nendoroid calender starting from April this year! There are also some awesomely designed 3A stickers, and some cute Puella Magi Madoka Magica stickers!

The mosaic is covering up the Good Smile Racing Newspaper, which will also be available at the event. The latest Racing Miku-san will be announced on the 10th February… I wonder how she’ll look!
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Original ‘Umybo’ Sticks!

There are two different Umybo treats to choose from, both with illustrations by MAX Watanabe-san! The two flavors are ‘Chicken Curry’ and ‘Corn Potage’! Just look at the little pliers and file the Umybo is holding in his hands – it’s so cute!

These will be given out at the Max Factory 25th Anniversary Booth!

But stock is limited, so stop by early if you don’t want to miss out!
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Note that different things are found at different areas!

Figures are at the Figure Sales Corner.
Seki-sama’s Figure is at the Goods Sales Corner.
Seki-sama’s event is at Max Factory’s 25th Anniversary Booth.
Energy Drinks, Square-chan and Nendo Stands are at the Goods Corner.
Umybo Sticks are at Max Factory’s 25th Anniversary Booth.
Handouts are all over the WonHobby Booth.

That sums up where you can find everything. The following page will give a little more information such as prices and how many of each item is available.

– Event Sales Page –
http://www.whl4u.jp/buy_kaijou.html (Japanese)

That brings the WonFes product reviews to an end!

Phew! There was so much to get through… definitely more than any previous WonFes event! But that just means all the more fun for everyone at the event!!

We’ll all be waiting for your arrival, so be sure to stop by if you can!

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

February 5, 2013 by Kahotan

Nendoroid Snow Miku: Strawberry White Kimono Ver.

Only 5 days left until WonFes!!

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The 2013 Snow Miku boxes are ready to ship off to events!

The very first place she will be on sale is the Sapporo Snow Festival on the 9th February, and then she’ll be available at WonFes on the 10th!

With today’s review, I’m also slowly but surely running out of WonFes products to review… the event is so close now!

You can click above if you missed out on any of my previous reviews! If you’re still unsure whether or not to pick up a certain figure, I’m sure the reviews will help you make a decision! (=ﾟωﾟ)ﾉ

Nendoroid Snow Miku: Strawberry White Kimono Ver.!

The first white kimono in the Nendoroid series!!

I’m so glad that Snow Miku was able to be the first to wear such a beautiful outfit! She comes with so many optional parts from big, to small – today I’ll take a quick look at all of them!
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This is how the packaging looks!

The ‘double-layer’ blister pack has become a Snow Miku standard now! ^^

You can see just how many different parts she comes with here! The kimono and the headdress did limit the posability of Snow Miku a little, so a number of parts such as the sitting parts and twin-tail hair part were included to allow for more poses! She easily comes with 70% more than standard Nendoroids!
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This is how she looks from the back!

She can actually stand without a stand just fine, but a clear stand that fixes her down securely is also included – it’s your choice if you want to use it!

The shape and color of the headdress looks just like a smooth ‘daifuku’, which is the dessert that the illustration was based on!
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Be careful when attaching or removing the headdress!

With the cold of Winter, the plastic tends to shrink and harden, which can cause some parts to get stuck and become difficult to remove.

Be sure to heat up the parts with something like a hair dryer, before trying to detach and remove them!

The same goes for the expression and hair parts – but at the same time, make sure you don’t burn yourself in the process!

Also, because she is such a lovely bright white, it also means that other colors will rub off onto her quite easily, so be careful of that too! This year’s Snow Miku is a very delicate flower, so be sure to take good care of her!
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Holding her umbrella!

This umbrella was also illustrated by Nijita, the illustrator of this year’s Snow Miku! It’s such a lovely color and the top has little snowflake prints on the top!

This expression is so elegant! She has a little bit of make-up on for a more mature look compared to the standard Miku – isn’t it beautiful?! ｡･ﾟ･(ﾉД`)･ﾟ･｡
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Twintails and an an expression with tears of joy!

After seeing this expression, I knew I’d have to keep good care of my Snow Miku forever more!! Looking at this adorable expression makes me want to shed some tears of happiness too!!

You can also see that you can swap our her standard hairstyle for the classic twintails! I love the way they fade from green down to a pale yellow!
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A sideways glance, sitting body and New Year’s sake!

An entire sitting body is included to help make up for the fact that the kimono doesn’t allow for all that many poses. She isn’t sitting on her knees, but actually with her legs out slightly to the side in a very cute pose!!

She also has a small dish for some sake and a special arm to hold it up. The arm is actually made for the standing pose, but I managed to get it to fit with the sitting parts as well! The sideways glancing expression was also a part of the original illustration – so many lovely ideas came from Nijita’s illustration!!
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Displayed on the included tray!

The whole theme behind this Snow Miku were the keywords ‘white kimono’ and ‘daifuku’, which are normally served on a tray like this – which led to these parts being included as well! Nijita’s illustration also included the toothpick, so that’s why that was included!! It certainly does make her look tasty…!!

But please don’t try to eat her, no matter how tasty she looks!! 😛
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Mirai-chan decided to try the kimono too!

Being able to switch head parts between Nendoroids is definitely one of my best things about them! Unfortunately Miku’s headdress was made specially for her, so placing it on other characters might be difficult, but you can still have them all try on the beautiful white kimono!! （*´∀｀）
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Nendoroid Snow Miku: Strawberry White Kimono Ver.!

She will be available at the WonHobby booth at the 2013 Wonder Festival (Winter)!

There will also be one week of online orders, so if you can’t make to the event, you can also order them online. (But they’ll be made to order, so they’ll only be delivered in June.)

You can find more info on the WonHobby 17 website!

– WONDERFUL HOBBY LIFE FOR YOU!! 17 –
http://www.whl4u.jp/ (Japanese)

The packaging this time around is also very special!! (`･ω･´)

Nagoya-san from the design team put together a fantastic design for the box! There is a special wrapping around the box that features some beautiful gold text – it makes it look so extravagant!! I’m sure everyone who decides to grab her will enjoy opening up this box!
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The final review… is still being prepared!

For the last review related to WonFes, I’ll be taking a look at Seki-sama’s Glenfire figure, as well as the goods that will be handed out at the event!

This photo shows Matsuda-san from the design team hard at work trying to put the last few details together so I can do my review… I wish him luck, as there really isn’t much time left!!

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