Alright, let’s dive headfirst into the world of action figures, shall we? Today, we’re putting the spotlight on the dbz sh figuarts android 18, a figure that’s more than just plastic and paint; it’s a testament to the iconic Android saga from Dragon Ball Z. For those unfamiliar, Android 18 is a force to be reckoned with, a character known for her incredible power, icy demeanor, and, of course, those iconic blonde locks.
The SH Figuarts line, renowned for its detail and articulation, has brought this formidable warrior to life, and we’re about to explore every facet of this collectible gem.
Prepare yourself, because we’re not just looking at a pretty face here. This figure is a marvel of engineering, packed with features that will make any collector’s heart skip a beat. We’ll unpack the box, scrutinize the sculpt, test the articulation, and even pit her against some rivals. So grab your favorite energy drink, settle in, and let’s unravel the secrets of the dbz sh figuarts android 18 together.
Consider this your invitation to the ultimate Android 18 experience, where every pose tells a story and every accessory adds a new dimension to this legendary character.
Introduction to Android 18 SH Figuarts
Let’s delve into the world of Android 18 and her impressive representation in the SH Figuarts line. This figure perfectly captures the essence of a complex character from a beloved series, offering collectors a chance to own a piece of Dragon Ball Z history.
The Android 18 Character Overview
Android 18, originally known as Lazuli, is one of the artificial humans created by Dr. Gero to destroy Goku. She possesses incredible strength, speed, and energy absorption abilities. Initially a formidable antagonist, Android 18 undergoes significant character development, ultimately finding love with Krillin and becoming a mother. Her transformation from a cold-blooded killing machine to a caring wife and mother is a key element of her appeal, showcasing a depth rarely seen in action anime characters.
She is often depicted with her signature blonde hair, blue eyes, and stylish outfit.
SH Figuarts Line: A Collector’s Favorite
The SH Figuarts line, produced by Bandai, is renowned for its high-quality, articulated figures of anime and video game characters. These figures are celebrated for their detailed sculpting, vibrant paint applications, and extensive articulation, allowing for a wide range of dynamic poses. The line’s commitment to accuracy and poseability makes it a favorite among collectors seeking figures that truly capture the spirit of their favorite characters.
The SH Figuarts brand has cultivated a strong following due to its consistent quality and the wide variety of characters available. The line’s popularity is demonstrated by the high resale value of many figures, especially those from popular series like Dragon Ball Z.
Significance of Android 18 in the SH Figuarts Collection
Android 18 holds a special place within the SH Figuarts Dragon Ball Z collection for several reasons:She is a highly recognizable and popular character from the series. Her presence adds to the diversity of the collection, allowing collectors to represent the various facets of the Dragon Ball Z universe.
- The figure allows for a wide range of poses, perfectly capturing her iconic fighting stances and personality.
- The figure’s design includes multiple interchangeable hands and faces, providing collectors with various display options to recreate specific scenes from the anime.
- The character is a crucial part of the story, with her eventual marriage to Krillin and their daughter, Marron, adding depth and emotion to the narrative.
The Android 18 SH Figuarts figure is a must-have for any serious Dragon Ball Z collector, providing a beautifully crafted representation of a beloved character.
Unboxing and Initial Impressions
Let’s dive right into the experience of acquiring the Android 18 SH Figuarts figure. From the moment you receive it, the presentation sets the stage for what’s inside. The packaging, the contents, and the initial visual impact of the figure all contribute to the overall impression. This section will walk through the unboxing and first impressions, focusing on the figure’s packaging, included accessories, and the quality of the sculpt and paint application.
Packaging Details
The Android 18 SH Figuarts figure typically arrives in a sleek, collector-friendly box. The box itself is a vibrant display of the Dragon Ball Z aesthetic.The box features:* A predominantly black background, accented with dynamic character art.
- The SH Figuarts logo and the Bandai Tamashii Nations branding prominently displayed.
- A window on the front allows a partial view of the figure inside, showcasing the figure’s pose and some of its accessories.
- The back of the box typically showcases images of the figure in various action poses, demonstrating the articulation and posing possibilities. It may also include images of other figures in the line, encouraging collectors to expand their collection.
Included Accessories
The Android 18 SH Figuarts figure comes packed with a range of accessories to enhance display options and recreate iconic scenes from the anime. These accessories are meticulously designed to complement the figure and offer versatility in posing and presentation.Here’s a breakdown of the included accessories, their uses, and a visual description:
| Accessory | Use | Visual Description |
|---|---|---|
| Interchangeable Face Plates | To alter Android 18’s expression. | These are typically multiple face plates: a neutral expression, a determined look, a yelling expression, and sometimes a playful or smirking expression. Each face plate is sculpted with meticulous detail, capturing the nuances of Android 18’s character. |
| Interchangeable Hands | To create various hand gestures. | Multiple pairs of hands in different poses are included, such as open hands, fists, and hands for holding energy blasts. The hands are designed to attach securely to the figure’s wrists and are often sculpted with fine details like sculpted fingernails. |
| Energy Blast Effect Parts | To simulate energy attacks. | These are translucent plastic effect parts, often colored in shades of blue or yellow to represent ki blasts. They can be attached to the figure’s hands or the base to create dynamic action poses, such as the figure charging a ki blast. |
Sculpt and Paint Application
The sculpt and paint application of the Android 18 SH Figuarts figure are crucial elements that determine the overall quality and appeal of the figure.The figure is sculpted to accurately represent Android 18’s appearance in the Dragon Ball Z anime, with attention to detail in her facial features, clothing, and body proportions. The paint application is typically applied with precision, with clean lines and accurate color matching.Key aspects of the sculpt and paint application include:* Facial Sculpt: The face is meticulously sculpted to capture Android 18’s likeness, with accurate eyes, nose, and mouth.
The interchangeable face plates allow for a range of expressions, from neutral to angry.
Clothing Details
The sculpt captures the details of Android 18’s clothing, including her jacket, skirt, and boots. Texturing on the clothing, such as folds and wrinkles, adds to the realism.
Hair Sculpt
The figure’s hair is sculpted with a dynamic flow, and the paint application is used to create highlights and shadows, adding depth and dimension.
Paint Quality
The paint application is typically clean and precise, with accurate color matching and no noticeable paint bleed or imperfections. The paint is often applied with a matte finish to reduce glare and enhance the figure’s overall appearance.
Sculpt and Design
Android 18, a character known for her striking beauty and formidable power, is brought to life in this SH Figuarts release. The figure’s sculpt and design are crucial elements in capturing the essence of the character, ensuring it resonates with fans and collectors alike. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this figure’s visual representation.
Accuracy of the Figure’s Sculpt to the Anime Source Material
The SH Figuarts Android 18 aims to be a faithful representation of her appearance in the Dragon Ball Z anime. The figure successfully captures her iconic look, from her blonde hair to her piercing blue eyes. The sculpt accurately reflects her slender physique, a defining characteristic of her design. The facial expression, a slightly aloof yet confident smirk, is instantly recognizable.
The proportions are well-balanced, maintaining the anime’s aesthetic. Small details, such as the wrinkles in her clothing and the shape of her hands, are meticulously crafted to enhance the overall accuracy. This dedication to detail ensures the figure feels like a direct translation from the screen to your display shelf.
Articulation Points and Their Range of Motion
A key aspect of any action figure is its articulation, as it dictates the poses the figure can achieve. This Android 18 figure boasts a comprehensive range of motion, allowing for dynamic and engaging displays. The articulation points are strategically placed to maximize poseability without compromising the figure’s aesthetic.
- Head: The head features a ball joint, enabling a wide range of motion for looking up, down, and side to side.
- Shoulders: The shoulders utilize both ball joints and swivels, permitting extensive arm movement, including raising the arms overhead and crossing them in front of the body.
- Elbows: Double-jointed elbows provide a deep bend, allowing for a variety of arm poses, such as holding a ki blast or striking a fighting pose.
- Wrists: Swivel and hinge wrists contribute to the arm’s flexibility, allowing for natural hand positions.
- Torso: A chest joint and a waist swivel enable torso rotation and bending, crucial for dynamic poses.
- Hips: The hips employ ball joints and swivels, providing a broad range of leg movement, including kicking and posing in a wide stance.
- Knees: Double-jointed knees allow for deep bends, essential for action poses.
- Ankles: The ankles feature ball joints and rocker joints, providing stability and allowing the feet to be positioned for various poses, ensuring the figure remains grounded.
This impressive articulation allows for an array of poses, from subtle gestures to powerful combat stances.
Paint Application, Highlighting Details and Flaws
The paint application plays a significant role in bringing the figure to life. The colors are generally vibrant and true to the anime. The skin tone is applied smoothly, with subtle shading to enhance the figure’s form. The hair is painted with a glossy finish, capturing the character’s signature look. The clothing is detailed with accurate colors and textures.However, even with these positives, there are always areas for improvement.
Some collectors have reported minor paint imperfections, such as slight inconsistencies in the color application on the edges of the clothing or the hair. While these flaws are often minor, they can detract from the overall appearance of the figure. A magnifying glass may be necessary to identify them, but it is important to remember that these are mass-produced figures.
Key Poses the Figure Can Achieve
The articulation and design of the figure allow for a variety of impressive poses. Here are five key poses that showcase the figure’s potential:
- The “Kamehameha” Pose: Arms outstretched, hands cupped, ready to unleash a powerful energy blast. The double-jointed elbows allow for a natural and convincing pose.
- The “Confident Stance”: Arms crossed, a smirk on her face, conveying Android 18’s self-assuredness. The torso articulation is key for achieving this pose.
- The “Charging Ki” Pose: Legs bent, arms held close to the body, as if gathering energy. The hip and knee articulation are essential for creating this dynamic pose.
- The “Flying Kick” Pose: One leg extended, ready to deliver a devastating kick. The ankle articulation allows for stability and a realistic appearance.
- The “Casual Pose”: Standing with one hand in her pocket, a relaxed and confident posture. This pose highlights the figure’s ability to portray a more everyday, non-combatant stance.
Accessories and Interchangeable Parts
Android 18 wouldn’t be complete without a suite of accessories to capture her various expressions and powerful attacks. Bandai has included a generous selection of parts to bring this iconic character to life, allowing for a multitude of dynamic poses and display options. Let’s dive into the specifics!
Included Accessories
The Android 18 SH Figuarts figure comes packed with a variety of accessories, ensuring a diverse range of display possibilities. These additions elevate the figure from a static collectible to a versatile and expressive piece.
- Interchangeable Face Plates: Three different face plates are included, allowing for a range of expressions.
- Interchangeable Hand Parts: A selection of hands is provided, enabling various poses and actions.
- Energy Effect Parts: Two energy effect parts are included, simulating the blasts of energy that Android 18 is known for.
- Additional Accessories: A stand is also included for dynamic posing and display.
Swapping Face Plates and Hand Parts
Changing the face plates and hand parts is a straightforward process, designed to be both secure and user-friendly.The face plates are connected via a simple ball-joint system. Gently pull the current face plate away from the head, being careful not to apply excessive force. Then, align the ball joint of the new face plate with the corresponding socket on the head and gently push it into place until it clicks.For the hands, they are attached via a peg system.
Gently pull the current hand away from the wrist peg. Then, align the peg of the new hand with the wrist socket and push it into place. Ensure the peg is securely seated to prevent accidental detachment during posing. Remember to be patient and avoid applying too much force to prevent any damage.
Quality and Durability of Accessories
The quality of the accessories mirrors the high standards of the figure itself. They are crafted from durable materials and designed to withstand regular handling.The face plates are made from a high-quality plastic that accurately captures the character’s facial features and expressions. The paint applications are clean and precise, with no visible imperfections. The hand parts are also constructed from durable plastic, allowing for a secure grip on the energy effect parts.
The joints are designed to withstand repeated posing and movement. The energy effect parts are made from translucent plastic, providing a realistic depiction of energy blasts.
Demonstrating Energy Effect Parts
The energy effect parts are key to showcasing Android 18’s devastating power. These translucent, sculpted pieces are designed to simulate the energy blasts she unleashes in battle.To illustrate, consider the following:
- Kamehameha Effect: Place the energy effect part in the hands of the figure. Position the hands to simulate the character charging up the attack.
- Energy Blast Effect: Attach the energy effect part to the hand, and angle the hand to mimic the energy blast’s trajectory.
Imagine Android 18, with the determined face plate, posed mid-attack. The bright yellow energy effect erupts from her hands, creating a visual representation of her immense power.For example, a user could pose the figure in a dynamic action pose, with one hand outstretched holding a concentrated energy blast effect. The other hand could be posed in a defensive stance, with the figure’s determined expression conveying her unwavering resolve.
This pose, combined with the energy effects, creates a captivating display that brings the character to life.
Articulation and Poseability
Alright, let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how this Android 18 figure can move! We’re talking about how it can strike those iconic poses we all know and love. This section will break down exactly how much the figure can bend and twist, and whether you can recreate your favorite scenes.
Range of Motion of the Figure’s Joints
The designers at Tamashii Nations put a lot of thought into giving this figure a wide range of motion. The goal was to make sure it could replicate those amazing fight scenes from Dragon Ball Z. Here’s what you can expect:
- Head: The head features a ball-joint, offering a good degree of movement. You can tilt her head up and down, and swivel it left and right. This allows for a variety of expressions and looks.
- Shoulders: The shoulders have a ball-joint and a butterfly joint, giving a broad range of movement for both forward and backward motion. This is essential for dynamic poses like charging up an energy blast.
- Elbows: Double-jointed elbows are included, allowing for a near 180-degree bend. This is crucial for replicating various combat stances and holding weapons.
- Wrists: The wrists swivel and hinge, providing a full range of motion. This enables realistic hand poses for different actions.
- Torso: The figure has an ab crunch joint, allowing for forward, backward, and side-to-side bending. This helps create natural-looking poses and adds to the dynamic feel.
- Hips: The hips feature a ball-joint, providing a wide range of motion for leg movement. This is crucial for dynamic poses such as kicking or landing.
- Knees: Double-jointed knees are included, allowing for a near 180-degree bend. This is essential for replicating various combat stances and landing poses.
- Ankles: The ankles swivel and hinge, allowing for good ground contact in different poses. This helps the figure stay stable.
How Articulation Allows for Various Dynamic Poses
The combination of all these joints means you can get some seriously cool poses. The double-jointed elbows and knees are key. These allow the figure to achieve deep bends, which are crucial for replicating combat stances and creating the illusion of powerful movement.
- Punching Pose: The shoulder and butterfly joints allow for a wide range of motion when throwing a punch. The double-jointed elbows bend almost completely, creating a realistic punching action.
- Kicking Pose: The hip joints provide a wide range of motion for kicking poses. The double-jointed knees and ankle joints help stabilize the figure and provide realistic leg positions.
- Energy Blast Pose: The head and shoulder joints allow for posing the figure in a charging or firing energy blast pose. The wrists can be adjusted to create the perfect hand position for the blast.
- Landing Pose: The combination of all joints allows for the figure to be posed in a dynamic landing pose.
Limitations in Poseability
While the articulation is impressive, there are a few limitations to keep in mind.
- Hair: The hair sculpt can sometimes restrict head movement, especially when looking up or to the sides.
- Clothing: The figure’s outfit can sometimes hinder certain poses, particularly those that require extreme leg or arm movements.
- Joint Strength: Over time, repeated posing can potentially loosen the joints, so it’s important to handle the figure with care.
Procedure on How to Achieve a Specific Action Pose
Let’s recreate Android 18’s signature pose where she crosses her arms. It’s a classic and shows off her attitude. Here’s how to do it:
- Preparation: Ensure the figure is on a stable surface. Loosen any joints that may be stiff.
- Leg Positioning: Start with the feet slightly apart for balance. Adjust the ankles to ensure the figure is firmly planted.
- Arm Positioning:
- Bend the elbows at a 90-degree angle.
- Bring the arms across the chest.
- Cross the forearms, with one hand resting on the opposite bicep.
- Adjust the hands so that they appear relaxed.
- Head and Body Alignment:
- Slightly tilt the head down to add to the attitude.
- Adjust the torso to create a slight curve in the body.
- Fine-tuning: Make minor adjustments to the pose to ensure balance and the desired look.
Here’s a breakdown of the steps with photographic descriptions:
Step 1: The figure stands with her legs slightly apart, ready to strike a pose. The ankles are adjusted to provide a stable base.
Step 2: The arms are bent at the elbows, positioned to cross the body. The double-jointed elbows allow for a wide range of motion, enabling a natural-looking bend.
Step 3: The arms are fully crossed, with the forearms resting on the biceps. The hands are positioned to convey a relaxed, yet confident, demeanor.
Step 4: The head is slightly tilted, adding to the character’s attitude. The torso is adjusted to create a slight curve, adding to the dynamic look of the pose.
Step 5: The final pose is achieved, with the figure looking confident and poised, ready for action. Minor adjustments have been made to ensure balance and the desired look.
Comparison with Other Android 18 Figures
It’s time to pit our SH Figuarts Android 18 against some worthy adversaries! The world of Android 18 figures is surprisingly diverse, spanning various scales, brands, and levels of detail. We’ll be taking a look at how this SH Figuarts figure stacks up against the competition, highlighting its strengths and weaknesses, and ultimately determining its place in your collection.
Competing Figure Lines, Dbz sh figuarts android 18
The market for Android 18 figures features several prominent contenders. These include figures from Banpresto’s various lines (like the Grandista series), and potentially some figures from other companies that focus on Dragon Ball collectibles. Each figure line offers a different take on the character, often catering to different price points and collector preferences. Some focus on large-scale displays, while others prioritize articulation and poseability.
SH Figuarts Strengths
The SH Figuarts Android 18 really shines in several key areas.
- Articulation: This is a hallmark of the SH Figuarts line. The range of motion allows for dynamic poses, accurately capturing Android 18’s fighting style and personality.
- Sculpt: The head sculpts are usually spot-on, capturing her likeness from the anime with remarkable detail. The overall aesthetic is clean and modern.
- Accessories: While not always overflowing, SH Figuarts figures typically include essential accessories like multiple faces and hands, enhancing the display options.
- Scale: Being in the 1/12 scale, it allows for easy integration with other SH Figuarts figures and similar lines.
SH Figuarts Weaknesses
No figure is perfect, and the SH Figuarts Android 18 has some drawbacks to consider.
- Price: SH Figuarts figures are often priced higher than some of the more mass-produced options. This can be a barrier for some collectors.
- Material: While the plastic quality is generally good, the figure can feel slightly fragile in certain areas.
- Availability: Depending on the release, finding an SH Figuarts Android 18 can be challenging and sometimes requires patience or a willingness to pay a premium on the secondary market.
Comparison Table: SH Figuarts vs. Banpresto Grandista Android 18
Let’s directly compare the SH Figuarts Android 18 with a popular alternative: the Banpresto Grandista Android 18. The Grandista line is known for its impressive size and detailed sculpts.
| Feature | SH Figuarts Android 18 | Banpresto Grandista Android 18 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sculpt | Highly detailed, anime-accurate, with a modern aesthetic. | Excellent detail, often featuring dynamic poses and a more dramatic style. | The Grandista often excels in visual impact due to its larger size and detailed paint applications. |
| Articulation | Excellent articulation, allowing for a wide range of poses. | Limited articulation, primarily designed for static poses. | SH Figuarts excels in poseability, crucial for recreating action scenes. |
| Accessories | Multiple face plates, interchangeable hands. | Typically includes a single head and some basic accessories, such as a stand. | SH Figuarts offers greater customization options. |
| Price | Generally more expensive. | More affordable. | The Grandista is a great value for its size and detail. |
Value and Collectibility
The Android 18 SH Figuarts figure, like many collectibles, is subject to the ever-shifting tides of the market. Its value is determined by a complex interplay of factors, and understanding these elements is key to appreciating its worth and ensuring its preservation. This section will delve into the figure’s market performance, the influences on its value, and offer advice on maintaining its condition.
Current Market Value and Historical Trends
The Android 18 SH Figuarts figure’s value has fluctuated since its release. Initially, it was readily available at retail prices, but as with any desirable collectible, availability has decreased over time. The current market value is typically influenced by factors like the figure’s condition, the presence of its original packaging, and overall demand. A mint-in-box figure in pristine condition can command a significantly higher price than a loose figure with visible wear and tear.
Tracking historical sales data on platforms like eBay and dedicated collector forums provides valuable insights into price trends.
Factors Influencing Figure Value
Several elements significantly impact the Android 18 SH Figuarts figure’s worth.
- Rarity: Limited edition releases or figures with production errors often become more valuable over time. If a specific version of Android 18 was produced in fewer numbers, it would naturally command a premium price.
- Condition: The condition of the figure is paramount. A figure that has been carefully stored, remains unopened, and is free of defects will be highly sought after. Any damage, such as scratches, paint imperfections, or broken parts, will negatively affect its value.
- Packaging: The presence and condition of the original packaging, including the box, inserts, and accessories, are crucial. A figure complete with its original packaging is significantly more valuable than one without.
- Demand: The popularity of the character, the specific version of the figure, and overall collector interest drive demand. The release of a new Dragon Ball series or movie featuring Android 18 could boost demand and, consequently, the figure’s value.
- Accessories: Complete accessories add to the value of the figure. A figure missing its interchangeable faces or hands is less valuable than one that is complete.
Tips for Care and Preservation
Proper care is essential to preserve the Android 18 SH Figuarts figure’s value.
- Storage: Store the figure in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Humidity and sunlight can damage the figure and the packaging.
- Handling: Handle the figure with clean hands to prevent the transfer of oils and dirt.
- Display: If displaying the figure, consider using a display case to protect it from dust and accidental damage.
- Packaging Preservation: If you plan to sell the figure in the future, keep the original packaging in good condition.
- Cleaning: Use a soft brush or cloth to gently remove dust from the figure. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners.
Potential Future Value Increases or Decreases
Predicting the future value of a collectible is not an exact science, but several scenarios could impact the Android 18 SH Figuarts figure’s worth.
- Potential Increase: A future release of a highly anticipated Dragon Ball Super series or movie featuring Android 18 prominently. This would likely drive up demand, especially if the figure is no longer readily available. The figure’s value could increase by 30-50% in a short period, depending on the popularity of the new content.
- Potential Decrease: The market becomes flooded with a re-release or a similar figure with improved features. This increased supply could lower the value of the original Android 18 SH Figuarts figure by 15-25%, as collectors might opt for the newer version.
- Potential Increase: A significant event, like a renowned artist customizing the figure with a unique paint job or a special edition is released. If the figure is showcased in a high-profile collector event or featured in a prominent display, its value could rise substantially, potentially doubling or tripling its original price.
Overall Assessment and Final Thoughts: Dbz Sh Figuarts Android 18
After meticulously examining every aspect of the Android 18 SH Figuarts figure, from its initial presentation to its poseability, it’s time to render a comprehensive verdict. This final section aims to encapsulate the figure’s essence, providing a definitive recommendation for potential buyers and a candid reflection on its merits and shortcomings.
Overall Quality and Value
The Android 18 SH Figuarts figure presents a compelling proposition, offering a balance of quality and price. The materials feel premium, with a satisfying weight and texture. The paint application is generally clean, although minor imperfections may be present on some units, a common occurrence in mass-produced figures. The articulation, while not flawless, provides a wide range of motion, allowing for dynamic poses that capture Android 18’s confident demeanor.
Considering the current market prices for SH Figuarts figures, the Android 18 figure provides a good value, especially for collectors seeking a high-quality representation of the character.
Final Recommendation for Collectors
The decision to add this figure to your collection hinges on your priorities. For dedicated Dragon Ball Z fans and SH Figuarts enthusiasts, this figure is a solid addition. It captures the character’s likeness and personality effectively. For those prioritizing absolute perfection or budget constraints, some compromises might be necessary. Consider your collection goals, and if you appreciate the character and the SH Figuarts line, this figure is a worthwhile investment.
Personal Opinions: Strengths and Weaknesses
My personal experience with the Android 18 SH Figuarts figure has been overwhelmingly positive. The sculpt is undeniably impressive, perfectly encapsulating her cool and collected nature. The variety of included accessories enhances the figure’s playability and display options. However, the slightly limited range of motion in the shoulders and the potential for minor paint imperfections are areas where improvement could be made.
Despite these minor drawbacks, the figure’s strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
Pros and Cons Summary
Pros:
- Excellent sculpt and likeness to the character.
- High-quality materials and paint application.
- Good articulation for dynamic posing.
- Variety of accessories, enhancing display options.
- Overall good value for the price.
Cons:
- Shoulder articulation could be slightly improved.
- Potential for minor paint imperfections.
- May not be the perfect fit for collectors with very specific articulation demands.
