Season 2 of ULTRAMAN recently dropped and introduced us to Kotaro Higashi, the newest member of the hero ensemble to don an Ultraman Suit. Bandai Spirits’ hobby division has already released the Figure-rise Standard kit of the suit and apparently, Tamashii Nations has planned the same, which came in a surprise announcement of sorts.
Skipping an anime version of the Ace Suit altogether, Tamashii Nations has announced the latest figure from the anime, S.H.Figuarts Ultraman Suit Taro -the Animation-. And while the figure looks really good, as per the title of this post, I’m likely to go with the Figure-rise Standard version as the completionist in me takes the better judgement.
Unlike the figures I have which are based on the original manga, these anime versions of the figures feature more vibrant colors and shiny silver parts. The same goes for the Taro Suit which sports more red colors. Articulation appears to be okay though I’m hoping it would be much better than the figure of the Seven Suit I have.
Articulation might be hit or miss, but what’s definitely a hit are the sculpted and painted details all over the figure. These include the chest parts, the arms, and the multi-layered head assembly that allows you to see the optics behind the visor piece. For accessories, it comes with replacement hands, flame effect parts, and its transformation item, the “Ultra Badge.”
Speaking of effect parts, the Taro Suit also comes with a pair of larger Specium Slashes used as a barrier in one of the episodes. This adds more display options for your Ultraman Suit figure.
As much as I like the Taro Suit and its design, what I’m really looking forward to is the Jack Suit and its Hulkbuster-esque demeanor. Neither the hobby, nor the collector division, has announced a Jack Suit model kit or figure so I’m curious how they’ll approach in making one.
In any case, if you want this figure, then better contact your favorite middleman service as this guy is a Tamashii Web exclusive.
S.H.Figuarts Ultraman Suit Taro -the Animation-
September 2022 / ¥6,500
