Anime Figure Collector's Guide
Last Updated: March 25, 2025
Welcome to the world of anime figure collecting! Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned collector, understanding the different types of figures, materials, manufacturers, and terminology will help you make informed decisions and grow your collection wisely.
1. Types of Anime Figures
Scale Figures
What they are: High-quality, hand-painted figures made to a specific ratio (e.g., 1/7, 1/8) relative to the character's "real" size.
Pros: Exceptional detail, premium finishes, often limited releases.
Cons: Expensive, rare aftermarket availability.
Note: Some include cast-off (removable clothing) or exclusive variants.
Prize Figures
What they are: Mass-produced, machine-painted figures originally won in arcades or as event giveaways.
Pros: Affordable, widely available, great for beginners.
Cons: Less detail, visible seam lines, smaller size.
Popular Brands: SEGA, FuRyu, Taito.
Chibi Figures (Nendoroids, etc.)
What they are: Super-deformed (SD) style with oversized heads and tiny bodies.
Pros: Cute, affordable, highly poseable (Nendoroids).
Cons: Limited realism, smaller scale.
Articulated Figures (Figma, SH Figuarts)
What they are: Poseable action figures with interchangeable parts.
Pros: Dynamic displays, customizable poses.
Cons: Joints may loosen over time, higher price than static figures.
2. Materials & Quality
| Material | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| PVC | Affordable, durable, detailed | May soften in heat | Most scale/prize figs |
| ABS | Sturdy, lightweight | Less detail than PVC | Articulated joints |
| ATBC-PVC | Flexible, resists yellowing | Expensive | High-end figures |
| Resin | Ultra-detailed, premium feel | Fragile, expensive | Garage kits/statues |
Tip: PVC + ABS hybrids are common for durability and detail.
3. Top Manufacturers & What They Offer
| Manufacturer | Specialty | Example Lines |
|---|---|---|
| Good Smile Co. | Nendoroids, Figma, Pop Up Parade | Affordable to high-end |
| Alter | Premium scale figures | Impeccable paint jobs |
| FREEing | Giant 1/4 scales (Bunny ver.) | NSFW/lewd designs |
| FuRyu | Prize figures (Noodle Stoppers) | Quirky, functional designs |
Pro Tip: Research manufacturers for consistency—some excel in certain genres (e.g., Alter for intricate tails, FREEing for large scales).
4. Key Terminology
Cast-Off
Removable clothing (often NSFW)
Forced Cast-Off
Irreversible modification (e.g., breaking parts)
Bootleg
Cheap, unlicensed knockoffs—avoid! (Check hologram stickers, seller reputation)
Garage Kit
Fan-made, unpainted resin model (requires assembly)
Exclusive/Limited
Only available via specific retailers or events
The anime figure market is vast—explore what suits your taste and budget! Check animefigure.app for updates on new releases, reviews, and deals.