Welcome to Super Saiyan Sphere!
New to collecting? We have you covered!
Imagine holding your favorite anime character in the palm of your hand, bringing their on-screen presence to life! Or picture gathering a team of your beloved characters to recreate epic moments right in your own space. Welcome to the captivating world of anime figure collecting—where your fandom takes shape in the real world!
This guide is crafted with newcomers to anime figure collecting in mind, but we hope seasoned collectors will also discover a few fresh insights along the way. Let’s dive in!
What exactly is a figure?
Simply put, it’s a 3D representation crafted in the likeness of a person, whether real or fictional, or even an object. Anime figures specifically bring characters from your favorite shows to life, creating a unique category of merchandise beloved by fans worldwide. Designed in various styles by different manufacturers, these collectibles are a tangible way to celebrate your fandom. Keep reading to explore the fascinating world of anime figure collecting!
The key differences between ancient figures and today’s modern ones lie in the materials and artistic styles. While ancient figures were often carved from clay, bone, or wood, modern figures are typically crafted from durable materials like plastic or resin.
Much like their historical counterparts, modern figures span a wide range of styles, from Western characters like He-Man to military miniatures, religious artifacts, and even scientific models. But today, we’re diving into a more exciting category—anime figures! Let’s explore what makes them so special.
Types of Figures
Many retailers group all anime figures into one broad category, but that oversimplifies the incredible variety within this hobby. From adorable chibi designs to bold and daring styles, each category has its own charm and appeal. Understanding these differences is key to finding the perfect figure for your collection!
Get in on this action
Think back to the action figures of your childhood—whether it was G.I. Joe, dubbed “America’s movable fighting man,” or Barbie posed in stylish, sassy stances. Originally, action figures referred to movable dolls often marketed toward boys, but today the term broadly describes figures with articulated joints that allow dynamic posing and movement.
Anime figures include plenty of articulated options, giving you endless ways to recreate your favorite scenes. And within this category, there’s even more to discover—let’s break it down further!
Anime figures, of course, include articulated figures, although you can break down these categories even further!
Don’t move!
Don’t move! Unlike articulated figures, which let your imagination run wild with poses, fixed-pose figures come pre-designed in iconic stances or moments from your favorite anime. These figures are all about capturing the essence of a character or scene, making them a standout display piece.
With fixed-pose figures, you’ll also encounter some specialized variations that add even more depth to your collection. Let’s explore!
To scale or not to scale
To scale or not to scale—anime scale figures bring precision to your collection. These fixed-pose figures are designed to reflect the “actual” dimensions of an anime character but in a shrunken, collectible form.
Each figure includes a size reference, such as 1/6th or 1/10th, indicating its proportional size compared to the full-scale character. For instance, if an anime character is 2 meters tall, a 1/10th scale figure would measure 20 cm. This attention to scale makes them an excellent choice for collectors seeking realism and detail.
You’re such a prize
If you’ve never tried Japanese claw games—also known as UFO catchers or crane games—you’re in for a treat! These arcade games add a layer of excitement with the promise of amazing prizes, including anime figures, if you’re skilled (or persistent) enough to snag one.
Prize figures, often found in these machines, are released weekly and offer a budget-friendly option for collectors. While they’re simpler in design compared to high-end figures, their affordability and uniqueness make them a favorite among beginners and a hidden gem for seasoned collectors hunting rare finds.
Get stuffed
Get stuffed with cuteness! Plushies may not be traditional anime figures, but they hold a special place in the world of anime collectibles. These soft, huggable characters are perfect for fans looking to add a touch of kawaii charm to their space. You’ll often find plushies from popular series like Love Live! or Touhou Project, including nesoberi plushies, which are adorably posed lying flat on their stomachs.
Since plushies are a niche item, they’re typically produced in limited quantities and rarely get re-releases, making them rare treasures over time. Whether for display or cuddling, plushies are a delightful addition to any anime fan’s collection!
Why bother buying a figure?
Why bother buying a figure? Now that we know what anime figures are, let’s dive into the why. For many fans, collecting figures is the natural next step in celebrating their love for anime and its characters. It’s about bringing a piece of their favorite series into the real world.
What starts as one figure to represent a beloved character often evolves into a growing collection, each piece telling its own story. It’s more than just a purchase—it’s a way to deepen your connection with the anime worlds you adore.
What’s stopping you?
What’s stopping you? While there are countless reasons to start collecting anime figures, some concerns might hold you back. Let’s address one of the most common ones:
Space, obviously!
Finding room to display your figures can be a challenge, but it’s manageable with a bit of planning. A desk, shelf, or cabinet can be perfect for showcasing your collection. The good news is that anime figures come in a variety of sizes, from compact Nendoroids to larger scale figures, so you can choose pieces that fit your available space.
“What are you, a weeb?”
Hobbies that feel niche can sometimes attract judgment. The stereotype that “figures are for kids” or that anime is too niche or non-western might discourage some collectors. Many in the community worry about being misunderstood for their passion for anime and figures.
However, times are changing. Anime is steadily gaining mainstream acceptance, from a U.S. presidential candidate quoting Pokemon to a billionaire proudly sporting a Fullmetal Alchemist profile icon. Japanese pop culture is becoming a global phenomenon.
Ultimately, the most important thing is that your hobbies bring you joy. Don’t let others’ opinions hold you back—embrace your passion and keep calm, and collect on!
“Show me the money!”
For many, the biggest hurdle to starting an anime figure collection is the price. With figures often costing hundreds of dollars, it’s natural to wonder why they’re so expensive. The answer lies in the meticulous manufacturing process, where quality is a top priority, driving up costs.
But don’t worry—there are ways to collect without breaking the bank! Buying pre-owned figures from trusted vendors can save you money while still offering great quality. Prioritizing one figure or set at a time helps spread out costs, and prize figures are a budget-friendly option for beginners.
Plus, there’s a silver lining: if kept in good condition, figures tend to appreciate in value over time.
Be cautious, though—steer clear of unlicensed figures. Not only do they harm the industry by misrepresenting sales support for your favorite series, but they’re often made with toxic materials that could pose health risks. Stick to authentic figures and check out our bootleg guide to protect your investment and your safety!
Before you buy a figure!
What are your favorite anime series or characters? Starting with what you love is the best way to dive into figure collecting. Explore the options available for your favorite series or characters—many online shops make this easy by organizing their catalogs by series.
If you’re not sure which series or characters to begin with, consider exploring figure categories instead. Beginner-friendly options include Nendoroids, Pop Up Parade figures, prize figures, and small plushies. These are not only more affordable but also compact enough to fit into most spaces. For instance, a Nendoroid will easily brighten up a small desk or shelf.
As a novice, navigating the world of anime figures can feel overwhelming, but taking the time to browse reputable online stores is a great way to learn about prices, styles, and what resonates most with you. Start small and let your collection grow naturally!
Where to get anime figures?
When buying anime figures, it’s important to keep a few things in mind. Since these items are often imported from Asia, there might be customs regulations to consider, particularly with specific types of figures. Import duties, increased shipping costs, and longer delivery times—ranging from a few days to several weeks or even months—are all possibilities. If your local shop is out of stock, they may also need to reorder from Asia, which can add to the wait time.
Local Hobby Shops
If you have a nearby hobby shop that stocks anime figures, it’s worth visiting. Seeing a figure in person can help you make a confident purchase. However, even trusted local stores can sometimes carry bootlegs, so always double-check authenticity.
Online Stores
For online shopping, it’s essential to research thoroughly. While many wonder about the “best” site to buy anime figures, the truth is that the best retailer depends on credibility. Here’s what to look for:
- Customer Support: Ensure the shop offers reliable support, but verify their claims through reviews.
- Authenticity Checks: If possible, ask for photos of the figure to compare with official manufacturer images.
Tips for Buying Online
When browsing, pay close attention to details. For example, ensure the product photos match the official manufacturer’s version. Reliable sellers prioritize quality assurance and customer satisfaction, so focus on vendors with a strong reputation.
With careful research and smart shopping, you can enjoy a hassle-free collecting experience and bring your favorite anime characters to life!
Where to from here?
Now that you’re familiar with the world of anime figures, you’re ready to dive in! Maybe you’ve already purchased your first piece—congrats on starting your collection! Make sure to care for it properly, find the perfect display spot, and savor your entry into the vibrant figure-collecting community.
But this is just the beginning. The real fun starts now, as you explore the endless possibilities: browse through thousands of figures, share your growing collection with friends, and immerse yourself in the joy of this unique hobby.
Thank you for reading our guide—welcome to the anime figure collecting community! Your adventure starts here.