Produced by Max Factory and distributed by Good Smile Company, the Figma (フィグマ) series is a renowned Japanese
action figure line. Developed by MAX Watanabe (CEO of Max Factory) and Masaki Asai, it emerged as a direct competitor to the Revoltech line, emphasizing advanced articulation as its core innovation. Each figure includes interchangeable accessories such as faceplates, hand parts, and optional character-specific components.
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- Character Selection and Cultural Relevance
The product line predominantly features iconic figures from Japanese pop culture, including characters from anime, manga, and video games. It occasionally incorporates Western characters or real-world personalities significant in Japanese internet culture, such as Billy Herrington, whose meme popularity in Japan justified his inclusion.
- Historical Milestones
First Release: A limited-edition Haruhi Suzumiya (coded SP001) bundled with the PS2 game Suzumiya Haruhi no Tomadoion January 31, 2008.
Standard Launch: Yuki Nagato from The Melancholy of Haruhi Suzumiyabecame the first regular-release Figma in February 2008.The series gained prolific status in Japan, frequently covered by major media outlets like Famitsuand Dengeki Hobby.
- Technical Specifications
1.Materials: Constructed from ABS and PVC, with flexible plastic used for dynamic elements like skirts or scarves to ensure unhindered articulation.
2.Dimensions: Figures stand approximately 13–16 cm tall, scaled to character proportions.
3.Interchangeability: Parts (e.g., hands, accessories) are cross-compatible across figures, enabling custom combinations.
4.Accessories: Standard inclusions feature multiple faceplates, hands, and an articulated display stand.
- Product Line Classification
The main series divides into three categories based on distribution:
Edition Type |
Product Code |
Distribution Channel |
Regular |
Three digits (e.g., 001) |
General retail release |
Special (SP) |
SP + three digits |
Licensed collaborations (game/DVD bundles) |
Limited (EX) |
EX + three digits |
Event exclusives (e.g., Wonder Festival) or mail-order |
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- Subsidiary Lines and Expansions
di:stage: Modular 10 cm × 10 cm display stages with adjustable joints (discontinued after 2009).
ex:ride: Scalable vehicles (e.g., motorcycles) compatible with Figma figures.
Figma Vehicles: Non-scale tanks for Girls und Panzer(e.g., Panzer IV Ausf. D), functionally scaled to ~1:12.
figFIX: Static, non-articulated figures matching Figma’s scale and sculpt quality; partial part interchangeability supported.
figma Styles: Fashion-focused sets including customizable bodies (with generic heads) and fabric clothing.
figma Plus: Diorama sets or miniature electronics (e.g., game consoles) aligning with the Figma ecosystem.
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