Hold onto your senzu beans, because we’re diving headfirst into the captivating world of the SHFiguarts Android 21 figure! This isn’t just another collectible; it’s a meticulously crafted tribute to a character who burst onto the Dragon Ball scene and immediately captured our imaginations. Android 21, with her complex origins and undeniable charm, is a perfect fit for the SHFiguarts line, renowned for its commitment to detail and dynamic poseability.
Get ready to explore the figure’s exquisite design, from her signature lab coat to the subtle nuances of her expression, all while uncovering the magic that makes this figure a must-have for any Dragon Ball aficionado.
From her enigmatic introduction in Dragon Ball FighterZ to her captivating presence in the wider Dragon Ball universe, Android 21 has quickly become a fan favorite. This SHFiguarts figure aims to capture that essence, offering collectors a chance to bring this formidable character to life. Prepare to discover the meticulous sculpting, vibrant paint applications, and an array of accessories that allow for endless display possibilities.
We’ll delve into the figure’s impressive articulation, enabling you to recreate iconic poses and dynamic action sequences. Consider this your invitation to journey into the heart of what makes this figure truly exceptional.
Introduction to SH Figuarts Android 21
Let’s delve into the world of SH Figuarts Android 21, a figure that embodies both the charm and complexity of a beloved Dragon Ball character. This figure isn’t just a collectible; it’s a testament to the artistry and dedication that Bandai Namco puts into its premium action figure line. We’ll explore Android 21’s origins, the SH Figuarts legacy, and what makes this particular figure a must-have for any collector.
Android 21’s Origins and Significance in Dragon Ball
Android 21 emerged as a compelling addition to the Dragon Ball universe, making her debut in the fighting gameDragon Ball FighterZ*. She’s not a character from the original manga or anime series, but rather an original creation for the game. Android 21’s design and backstory were meticulously crafted by Akira Toriyama himself, the creator of Dragon Ball, which immediately granted her a level of legitimacy and intrigue.
Her story involves a complex past as a scientist, with ties to the Red Ribbon Army and a dangerous appetite fueled by her Majin-like abilities. This unique origin sets her apart, giving her a blend of intellectual prowess and raw power, making her a compelling antagonist and, eventually, an intriguing ally.
SH Figuarts Line Overview and Reputation
The SH Figuarts line, produced by Bandai Spirits, is renowned for its high-quality action figures. These figures are celebrated for their meticulous attention to detail, extensive articulation, and accurate representation of characters from various anime, manga, and video game franchises. Collectors appreciate the SH Figuarts line for several key reasons:
- Detailed Sculpting: The figures feature incredibly detailed sculpts, capturing the likenesses of the characters with remarkable accuracy.
- Extensive Articulation: SH Figuarts figures boast a wide range of articulation points, allowing for dynamic posing and recreating iconic action scenes. This is especially important for Dragon Ball characters known for their dynamic fighting styles.
- High-Quality Materials: The figures are typically crafted from durable PVC and ABS plastics, ensuring longevity and a premium feel.
- Variety of Accessories: Each figure often comes with a variety of accessories, such as interchangeable faces, hands, and effect parts, further enhancing display options.
The SH Figuarts line has earned a strong reputation for consistently delivering high-quality figures, making it a favorite among collectors seeking the best in action figure craftsmanship.
Distinguishing Features of the Android 21 Figure
The SH Figuarts Android 21 figure showcases several features that set it apart, making it a standout piece in any collection. These features highlight the figure’s attention to detail and its ability to capture the essence of the character:
- Multiple Face Plates: The figure includes multiple interchangeable face plates, allowing for a range of expressions, from her calculating demeanor to her monstrous transformation. These plates capture the nuances of her personality.
- Interchangeable Hands: A variety of interchangeable hands allows for recreating various poses and attacks, including signature moves from
-Dragon Ball FighterZ*. - Signature Attack Effects: The figure often includes effect parts that simulate her signature attacks, such as her energy blasts and her ability to absorb opponents. These effects add a dynamic element to the display.
- Detailed Sculpt and Paint: The figure features a detailed sculpt, capturing her unique design, including her lab coat, her hair, and her distinct features. The paint application is precise, with shading and highlights that bring the figure to life.
- Articulation for Dynamic Poses: As with other SH Figuarts, Android 21 boasts a high degree of articulation. This allows collectors to pose her in various action poses, capturing her elegance and power.
These elements combine to create a figure that is not only visually stunning but also highly poseable and expressive, making it a must-have for any fan of Android 21 or the Dragon Ball franchise. The level of detail and the inclusion of various accessories allow collectors to truly bring the character to life on their display shelves.
Figure Design and Sculpt
The SH Figuarts Android 21 figure is a striking representation of the character, capturing her complex personality and unique visual design. Bandai Tamashii Nations has crafted a figure that not only accurately portrays Android 21’s appearance but also allows for a range of dynamic poses, reflecting her diverse fighting styles and signature moves. This meticulous approach to design and execution makes the figure a must-have for any Dragon Ball fan.
Overall Aesthetic and Design Choices
The figure’s aesthetic is a successful blend of elegance and power, mirroring Android 21’s character duality. Her attire, a modified version of her lab coat, is meticulously sculpted to showcase the folds and textures of the fabric. The design incorporates a tailored fit that accentuates her figure, providing a balance between her scientific background and her combat capabilities.
- The lab coat is a key element of her design, and the figure captures its intricacies. It is sculpted to appear flowing, allowing for dynamic posing and conveying a sense of movement.
- The figure’s accessories are kept to a minimum, with focus on details such as her signature red boots, which are sculpted with intricate detail, and her hair, which is styled to match her appearance in the game.
- The color palette is vibrant, with a mix of whites, reds, and blacks that reflect her personality.
Sculpting Quality
The sculpting quality of the SH Figuarts Android 21 figure is exceptional, particularly in the rendering of her facial expressions and body proportions. The figure’s face features a detailed sculpt, capturing her mischievous grin and determined gaze. The body proportions are accurately reproduced, ensuring a faithful representation of the character’s physique.
- The facial expressions are varied, with interchangeable faces allowing for different moods and poses. Each expression is sculpted with precision, capturing the nuances of her personality.
- The body proportions are accurate, with a well-balanced physique that reflects her strength and agility.
- The articulation is well-integrated, allowing for a wide range of motion without compromising the figure’s aesthetic appeal.
Paint Application and Color Palette
The paint application on the Android 21 figure is precise and detailed, enhancing the figure’s overall appearance. The color palette is carefully chosen, with a combination of vibrant and subtle tones that complement the character’s design. The use of special effects adds depth and realism to the figure.
- The paint job is applied with precision, with clean lines and accurate color matching.
- The color palette features a mix of vibrant reds, blacks, and whites, reflecting her design.
- Special effects, such as shading on the hair and clothing, add depth and realism.
- The figure’s face features intricate details, with accurate representation of the character’s eyes and mouth.
Articulation and Poseability
The true beauty of a collectible figure lies not just in its appearance, but also in its ability to be brought to life through dynamic posing. The SH Figuarts Android 21 excels in this regard, offering a remarkable range of motion and articulation that allows for the recreation of iconic scenes and the creation of entirely new ones. Let’s delve into the specifics of what makes this figure so poseable and how it performs in the hands of a collector.
Range of Motion and Articulation Points
The SH Figuarts Android 21 figure boasts a well-engineered articulation system, providing a vast array of posing possibilities. This is achieved through a combination of cleverly placed joints and a thoughtful design that prioritizes both aesthetics and functionality.
- Head: The head features a ball-jointed neck, allowing for a wide range of motion, including looking up, down, and side-to-side, and tilting for expressive poses.
- Shoulders: The shoulders utilize a combination of ball joints and swivel joints, granting a full 360-degree rotation and significant upward and outward movement. This allows for dynamic arm poses, such as those used for ki blasts or dramatic gestures.
- Elbows: Double-jointed elbows enable a near-complete bend, crucial for posing the figure in various fighting stances or more casual poses.
- Wrists: Swivel and hinge wrists contribute to the figure’s expressive capabilities, allowing for subtle hand gestures and precise weapon holding.
- Torso: A well-disguised ab crunch joint allows for forward, backward, and side-to-side bending, enhancing the figure’s dynamism. The design ensures this movement does not detract from the figure’s overall aesthetic.
- Hips: The hips feature ball-jointed articulation, offering a broad range of leg movement, including splits and high kicks.
- Thighs: Swivel joints at the thighs allow for further leg articulation, contributing to the overall poseability.
- Knees: Double-jointed knees provide a deep bend, allowing for a wide variety of kneeling and crouching poses.
- Ankles: Ball-jointed ankles and rocker ankles offer excellent stability and allow for posing on uneven surfaces.
Iconic Scene Recreation
The extensive articulation of the SH Figuarts Android 21 is perfectly suited for recreating memorable moments from Dragon Ball FighterZ and other related media. The figure is more than capable of capturing the character’s signature poses.Here are a few examples:
- Energy Blast Pose: The figure can easily assume the iconic energy blast pose, with arms extended and hands cupped, ready to unleash a devastating attack. The range of motion in the shoulders and elbows allows for a natural and powerful stance.
- Transformation Sequence: The figure can be posed mid-transformation, with arms crossed and a determined expression. The various joints, especially the shoulders, hips, and knees, allow for a dynamic and engaging pose.
- Casual Poses: The figure is also capable of more relaxed poses, such as standing with arms crossed or hands on hips, showcasing her personality and versatility. The ab crunch joint and ankle articulation contribute significantly to these poses.
- Evil Android 21’s Poses: Given the design and articulation, the figure can recreate scenes with Evil Android 21. From the dramatic stances to the signature poses that display her overwhelming power, the figure is designed to bring her menacing presence to life.
Stability and Pose Holding
A figure’s poseability is only as good as its stability. The SH Figuarts Android 21 figure is designed with both articulation and stability in mind. The weight distribution is carefully considered, and the joints are engineered to hold poses effectively.
- Joint Design: The joints are designed to be tight and secure, preventing the figure from flopping over or losing its pose.
- Weight Distribution: The figure’s design ensures a balanced weight distribution, reducing the likelihood of it tipping over.
- Foot Stability: The feet are designed with a wide stance and strong ankle joints, providing a stable base for a variety of poses.
- Accessory Support: The inclusion of a stand can further enhance the figure’s stability, especially for more dynamic poses that require additional support.
The combination of excellent articulation, well-considered design, and attention to detail makes the SH Figuarts Android 21 a joy to pose and display. It is a testament to the fact that a collectible figure can be both a work of art and a highly posable action figure.
Accessories and Interchangeable Parts: Shfiguarts Android 21
Android 21’s SH Figuarts figure is more than just a static display piece; it’s a dynamic representation of the character’s abilities and personality. The inclusion of a variety of accessories and interchangeable parts is key to achieving this, allowing collectors to pose and display the figure in a multitude of ways, recreating iconic scenes from the Dragon Ball universe. These additions not only enhance the visual appeal but also significantly boost the figure’s playability.
Alternate Faces
The figure includes several alternate face plates, each designed to capture a different expression and reflect the character’s shifting moods. These faces are easily swapped, enabling a wide range of storytelling possibilities.* A neutral face, ideal for standard poses and general display.
- A smiling face, showcasing Android 21’s more playful side.
- A determined face, perfect for displaying her in combat scenarios.
- A face displaying her hunger, a key aspect of her character.
- A face with a malicious grin, emphasizing her darker tendencies.
Interchangeable Hands
To further enhance posing options, the figure comes with a selection of interchangeable hands. These hands allow for more natural and expressive poses, enabling the recreation of various actions and gestures.* A pair of relaxed hands for standard poses.
- A pair of fists for combat stances.
- Open hands for energy blasts or specific attacks.
- A hand holding a delicious-looking donut, a nod to her appetite.
Effect Parts
Effect parts are crucial for simulating the energy blasts and special abilities associated with the Dragon Ball universe. These parts bring a dynamic element to the figure, making it appear as if it is actively engaging in combat or using her powers.* A ki blast effect, which can be attached to the hands to simulate energy attacks.
An energy aura effect, designed to surround the figure, further enhancing the impact of her powers.
Accessory Organization
To better visualize the range of accessories, here’s a table summarizing each item and its purpose:
| Item | Purpose | Description | Enhancement |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alternate Neutral Face | Standard Display | A face with a calm expression. | Provides a baseline for display, suitable for various poses. |
| Alternate Smiling Face | Showcasing Playfulness | A face displaying a gentle smile. | Adds personality and allows for more lighthearted poses. |
| Alternate Determined Face | Combat Scenarios | A face exhibiting determination. | Enhances combat-oriented poses, making them more dynamic. |
| Alternate Hungry Face | Highlighting Character Trait | A face with an expression of intense hunger. | Emphasizes a key aspect of Android 21’s personality. |
| Alternate Malicious Grin Face | Emphasizing Darker Tendencies | A face with a sinister grin. | Allows for poses showcasing Android 21’s darker side. |
| Relaxed Hands (Pair) | Standard Poses | Hands in a relaxed position. | Allows for natural-looking poses and interactions. |
| Fists (Pair) | Combat Stances | Hands clenched into fists. | Enables dynamic combat poses. |
| Open Hands (Pair) | Energy Blasts and Attacks | Hands open for various actions. | Provides options for displaying energy effects and other actions. |
| Hand Holding Donut | Character Specific Pose | A hand specifically designed to hold a donut. | Adds a unique, character-specific touch to the display. |
| Ki Blast Effect | Energy Attacks | A translucent energy effect. | Simulates energy attacks, adding dynamism. |
| Energy Aura Effect | Power Enhancement | A translucent aura effect to surround the figure. | Creates a visual representation of power. |
Comparison with Other Android 21 Figures
The world of Android 21 figures is, thankfully, a bit more populated than some other Dragon Ball characters. While SH Figuarts is a strong contender, let’s explore how it stacks up against some of the competition. The market offers a variety of interpretations, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, appealing to different collectors and preferences. Understanding these differences helps determine which figure best suits your collection and expectations.
Notable Android 21 Figure: Banpresto’s Android 21 (Majin)
Banpresto has produced several Android 21 figures, with their Majin form version being a popular choice due to its dynamic pose and affordability. Comparing the SH Figuarts figure to Banpresto’s Android 21 (Majin) highlights the differing priorities in design and target audience. The SH Figuarts line, known for its articulation and poseability, caters to a collector who values action and display options.
In contrast, Banpresto often focuses on striking static poses and affordability.
Here’s a breakdown of the key differences:
-
Sculpt:
The SH Figuarts sculpt is typically more detailed, with finer textures and more accurate facial features, reflecting Bandai’s focus on replicating the character’s likeness from the anime. Banpresto’s sculpt, while still appealing, often has a simpler design, optimized for mass production and cost-effectiveness.The SH Figuarts figure captures the nuanced expressions and details of Android 21’s design.
-
Articulation:
SH Figuarts excels in this area. Their Android 21 boasts a wide range of motion, allowing for dynamic poses and action scenes. This is achieved through numerous points of articulation, including double-jointed elbows and knees, ball-jointed shoulders, and a fully articulated neck. Banpresto figures, on the other hand, have limited articulation, usually with movement at the shoulders and sometimes the neck, but they prioritize the overall pose. -
Accessories and Interchangeable Parts:
SH Figuarts figures frequently include a variety of accessories, such as multiple faceplates, interchangeable hands, and effect parts to recreate iconic scenes from the anime. The Android 21 figure typically includes several faceplates with different expressions, allowing for a range of emotional displays, and various hand gestures.Banpresto figures often have minimal accessories, focusing primarily on the core character design.
“The SH Figuarts Android 21 offers superior articulation and a wider range of display options, appealing to collectors who value poseability and detail.”
Display and Presentation
Showcasing your SH Figuarts Android 21 figure is a significant part of the collecting experience. A well-presented figure not only protects your investment but also allows you to appreciate the intricate details and dynamic poses of this unique character. This section will explore various creative display options, photography tips, and preservation techniques to ensure your Android 21 figure looks its best for years to come.
Creative Display Options
Finding the perfect way to display Android 21 is a fun challenge. Here are a few ideas to get you started, ranging from simple setups to more elaborate dioramas:* The Classic Power-Up Pose: Position Android 21 in a dynamic power-up pose, arms raised and energy effects radiating from her hands. A simple black or dark blue backdrop can make the energy effects really pop.* The Casual Scientist: Recreate a scene of Android 21 analyzing data or experimenting in a lab.
Use miniature lab equipment, such as beakers, test tubes, and a small laptop, to build this environment.* The Combat-Ready Stance: Pose her in a fighting stance, ready to strike or defend. Incorporate action effects, like energy blasts or impact sparks, to add a sense of movement.* The Transformation Sequence: Utilize multiple figures, if you have them, to show the stages of her transformation, creating a dynamic narrative across your display.* Diorama with Dragon Ball Z Figures: Create a scene where Android 21 interacts with other Dragon Ball Z characters.
A battle scene or a more casual interaction adds depth to the display. Imagine her confronting Goku or interacting with Gohan.* Custom Base: Consider a custom-made base that reflects Android 21’s personality. This could be a simple base with a unique design or a more elaborate scene with details from her environment, such as a lab or a battlefield.
Effective Figure Photography
Taking great photos of your figure is a rewarding experience. Here’s how to capture Android 21 in all her glory:* Lighting is Key: Use soft, diffused lighting to avoid harsh shadows. A softbox or a well-lit room with natural light is ideal. Experiment with different light angles to highlight details. Avoid direct sunlight, which can create strong shadows and wash out colors.* Background Matters: Choose a background that complements the figure.
A plain backdrop, such as a white or black sheet of paper, is a good starting point. Consider using a themed background related to Android 21’s environment, like a futuristic lab or a destroyed city.* Camera Settings: If you’re using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, use a low ISO setting to minimize noise. A wide aperture (low f-number) will create a shallow depth of field, blurring the background and making the figure stand out.
Adjust the white balance to ensure accurate colors.* Composition and Posing: Experiment with different angles and poses to find the most visually appealing shots. Consider the rule of thirds when composing your photos, placing the figure at key intersections for a more balanced image.* Post-Processing: Use photo editing software to enhance the colors, adjust the brightness and contrast, and remove any imperfections.
Be careful not to over-edit, as the goal is to enhance the figure, not to alter it drastically.
Figure Storage and Maintenance
Proper care will extend the life of your figure. Here are some essential tips for long-term preservation:
Dust Regularly
Dust your figure frequently using a soft brush or a microfiber cloth to prevent dust accumulation, which can scratch the figure’s surface.
Avoid Direct Sunlight
Prolonged exposure to sunlight can fade the figure’s colors and damage the plastic. Display your figure in a location away from direct sunlight.
Control Temperature and Humidity
Store your figure in a cool, dry place. Extreme temperatures and humidity can damage the figure. Avoid storing figures in attics or basements, where temperature and humidity fluctuations are common.
Proper Storage
If you plan to store your figure for an extended period, return it to its original packaging or a protective display case. This helps to protect the figure from dust, scratches, and other damage.
Gentle Handling
Handle your figure with care. Avoid applying excessive force when posing or changing parts.
Cleaning
If the figure gets dirty, gently clean it with a soft cloth and mild soap and water. Avoid using harsh chemicals or solvents.
Value and Collectibility
Assessing the SH Figuarts Android 21 figure’s worth and its long-term potential requires a keen eye for market trends and a deep understanding of the factors that drive collectibility in the Dragon Ball figure community. The figure’s value isn’t static; it’s a dynamic reflection of demand, rarity, and overall desirability. Let’s delve into what makes this particular figure a potential gem for collectors.
Current Market Value and Appreciation Potential
The current market value of SH Figuarts Android 21 fluctuates based on several variables, including the figure’s version (e.g., standard, special edition), its condition (sealed, opened but mint, etc.), and the overall availability in the market. Examining recent sales data from online marketplaces like eBay and specialized figure forums is crucial for determining a fair price.Consider this:
A sealed, standard edition Android 21 figure in pristine condition might fetch a price significantly higher than a figure that’s been opened and displayed.
The potential for appreciation hinges on several factors. The popularity of the character, the limited nature of the release, and the figure’s overall quality all contribute to its long-term value. Limited edition figures or those with exclusive accessories are often highly sought after and can appreciate more rapidly. For instance, if Tamashii Nations decides to discontinue production or release a particularly rare variant, the value of existing figures could surge.
Factors Influencing Collectibility
Several elements significantly influence the collectibility of the SH Figuarts Android 21 figure, making it a desirable item for collectors.
- Rarity: Limited production runs or exclusive releases significantly boost collectibility. If only a specific number of figures were produced, the scarcity will drive up demand.
- Popularity: The character’s popularity within the Dragon Ball universe plays a crucial role. Android 21’s unique design and her role in the Dragon Ball FighterZ game have contributed to her appeal among fans.
- Condition: The figure’s condition, whether it’s sealed in its original packaging or has been opened and displayed, greatly impacts its value. Mint-condition figures are generally more valuable.
- Accessories and Variants: Figures that include exclusive accessories or are variants of the original design are often more sought after. This could include alternate face plates, hands, or effects parts.
- Demand: The overall demand from collectors, influenced by factors such as the character’s appeal, the figure’s quality, and the availability in the market, is a primary driver of collectibility.
Significance in Dragon Ball Figure Collecting
The SH Figuarts Android 21 figure holds a significant place within the broader context of Dragon Ball figure collecting. Its inclusion highlights the evolution of the Dragon Ball franchise and the popularity of characters beyond the core Z-Fighters.This figure:
- Represents a newer era of Dragon Ball, showcasing characters from recent games and storylines.
- Fills a gap in the collection, providing collectors with a character that was previously underrepresented.
- Demonstrates the continued appeal of the SH Figuarts line and its ability to deliver high-quality figures of diverse characters.
- Can be used to enhance the value of other figures. For example, a collector may want to obtain other figures of the same line or similar theme to match the Android 21.
Potential for Future Releases
The SH Figuarts Android 21 figure has proven to be a popular release, and the potential for future iterations and expansions within this line is substantial. Considering the character’s popularity and the success of the existing figure, it’s reasonable to anticipate further developments.
Potential Figure Variations
Given the source material, there are several exciting possibilities for future Android 21 figures. The character’s transformations and various forms provide ample opportunities for Bandai to create new figures.* Majin Android 21 (Good): This form, with its pink skin and distinctive attire, is a prime candidate. This version would offer a stark contrast to the existing figure and would be a highly desirable addition for collectors.
Imagine the potential for dynamic poses capturing her signature energy blasts.
Android 21 (Evil/Hungry)
This is a must-have, with her more monstrous features and the ability to absorb opponents. This could be achieved through interchangeable head sculpts, hands, and perhaps even a partial transformation effect piece to represent her appetite.
Lab Coat Version
A version of Android 21 in her lab coat, possibly with additional accessories representing her scientific pursuits, such as test tubes or a small computer, could be a great addition to the collection.
Accessories and Features for Enhanced Playability
Beyond different forms, the inclusion of specific accessories could greatly enhance the playability and display options of future Android 21 figures.* Energy Effect Parts: Energy blasts and ki effects are essential for any Dragon Ball figure. Including a variety of these, in different colors and shapes, would allow for more dynamic and visually appealing poses.
Interchangeable Face Plates
Multiple face plates would allow collectors to portray a wider range of emotions and expressions. This is a common feature in SH Figuarts and would be especially valuable for a character like Android 21, with her diverse personality.
Absorption Effect Pieces
The ability to “absorb” other characters is central to Android 21’s abilities. Future figures could include effect parts designed to mimic this, perhaps with translucent figures of other characters partially incorporated into the effect.
Character-Specific Accessories
This could include items like a lab coat, a miniature version of a specific character she has absorbed, or even a small stand with a lab environment theme.
Rumors and Leaks Regarding Upcoming Dragon Ball SH Figuarts Releases, Shfiguarts android 21
While specific rumors are often difficult to verify, the general trend in SH Figuarts releases points towards a continuation of the Dragon Ball line.* Prior Releases: Bandai typically follows a pattern of releasing characters based on their popularity in the Dragon Ball franchise. Android 21’s popularity makes her a prime candidate for more releases.
Market Trends
The success of previous Dragon Ball SH Figuarts figures suggests that demand remains high. This ensures the continuous development of figures based on characters from the franchise.
Community Speculation
The online community often anticipates new releases based on events within the Dragon Ball universe. These are not official confirmations, but they offer insight into the figures that collectors would like to see.
