REVIEW: Max Factory's FIGMA Series - YUKI NAGATO

New anime action figure line starts off with a bang...

Max Factory's Figma YUKI NAGATO is being imported exclusively via AAA Anime Distribution where the figure is now available for preorder.

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As previously reported HERE, Max Factory of Japan has begun to release a new line of action figures called Figma. This character-based line features an innovative joint locking system that allows for a highly articulated and more realistic figure body. The first figure release in this exceptional new line is Yuki Nagato, a major character from the ultra popular manga and anime series The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya.

Yuki is an artificial human created by the “Integrated Data Entity” for the purpose of observing Haruhi, who they believe has godlike powers and do not wish her to use them. The quiet girl, who always has her face buried in a book, joins Haruhi’s SOS Brigade, a school organization devoted to finding UFOs, time-travelers, and ESPers (psychics). She uses her supernatural powers, ability to manipulate physical properties, and superhuman strength and agility to protect the Brigade and thwart attackers.

PACKAGING: The packaging for Yuki, and I’m assuming the entire Figma line, has a very elegant and well-designed look. The small box has a large front window allowing you to see the figure and all of her accessories laid out in the inner clamshell tray. An eye-catching mirrored background insert further accentuates the figure inside.

The package is done in a white and light blue color scheme with a waved line that repeats on all sides. The sides also feature nice, full color photography of the figure, with several shots on the back. The Figma logo is prominent throughout, even on the window, a feature which I’m sure collector’s everywhere will be looking for.

SCULPT & ARTICULATION: Sculpt and articulation go hand in hand on this masterpiece. Yuki features an astounding number of articulation points because of the peg-based assembly. She can hold almost any position you can think of and the joints stay tight. All of her parts, like her hands, feet, and head, are removable and can be swapped out with other Figma characters to make your own creations.

The sculpting on Yuki is pretty much perfect. The proportions are accurate and the body of her sweater and her skirt are separate molded rubber pieces. My only issue with this fine figure is the weird sunken-in areas on the backs of her calves, above her knees. Her face captures the characters calm, unemotional personality and the sculpt as a whole is genuinely simplistic, which is good considering you’re dealing with a character in a school uniform.

PAINT: In general, paint apps are almost non-existent on this figure. She features some painted on details such as her socks and uniform, but it looks like most of her pieces were cast in the color of plastic that was needed. The transfers for her eyes are very clean, as are the minor details of her uniform.

ACCESSORIES: Yuki includes a plethora of accessories that enhance her display and play experience. I must say, the biggest surprise and most useful accessory I have seen...almost ever... is the inclusion of a Figma plastic ziplock bag in which to store all of Yuki’s pieces so you don’t lose them. Brilliant! Why has this idea never been utilized before?

Besides this fantastic accessory, she also includes: two faces, one with eyes forward the other with eyes to the side; two sets of hair, with and without glasses; five pairs of hands with a handy plastic caddy to snap them into when not in use; two sets of shoes; two books and an awesome folding chair that actually folds.

The other important accessory is the display stand. This clear plastic stand slides into her back and allows for even more poseability by allowing you to create mid-air poses, kicks, and balancing acts.

COST & OVERALL IMPRESSION: I recommend this figure to anyone who likes action figures. The attention to detail, phenomenal articulation, and overall quality make Figma an incredible action figure line. The interchangeable parts and customizability will draw in fans that like to modify their figures and anime and manga fans will love seeing their favorite characters get the treatment they deserve.

This figure is currently slated to hit America in June for an MSRP of $28.99, exclusively via AAA Anime Distribution. With plans to release all five main characters from Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiya, fans will not want to miss the first.

CLICK HERE for more images of Yuki!

Review and Photos by Michael Klein

Review Sample Courtesy of AAA Anime