This articulated figure represents a character from a popular fighting game franchise, meticulously crafted within a renowned collector’s line known for its detailed design and posability. Collectors and fans often seek this specific iteration due to its accurate portrayal of the character’s appearance and abilities as seen in the source material.
The significance of this particular figure lies in its appeal to both enthusiasts of the fighting game genre and collectors of high-quality action figures. Its release provided fans with a tangible representation of a beloved character, allowing for display and dynamic posing. The figure also benefits from the established reputation of the manufacturing line, guaranteeing a level of quality and authenticity that attracts a discerning consumer base. Its creation and distribution added another layer to the character’s existing media presence.
The following discussion will delve into the specific features, availability, and collectibility aspects associated with the figure. It will also address typical consumer considerations and potential market trends related to its valuation and procurement.
1. Authenticity of the figure
The confirmed origin of the action figure is paramount to its value and collectibility. Ensuring an instance is genuinely produced by the official manufacturer, Bandai Spirits, under the S.H.Figuarts label, protects buyers from counterfeit products prevalent in the secondary market.
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Packaging Verification
Official packaging exhibits specific hallmarks, including the Bandai Spirits logo, S.H.Figuarts branding, and relevant copyright information from the intellectual property owner. Counterfeit packaging often displays inconsistencies in font, color, or print quality. Examining the packaging for these details is a primary method of authentication.
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Figure Markings and Stamps
Authentic releases include molded markings or stamps on the figure itself, often located on the feet, torso, or internal joints. These markings typically consist of copyright information, production codes, or the Bandai logo. The absence or incorrect rendition of these markings strongly suggests a counterfeit.
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Material Quality and Construction
Genuine figures are constructed from high-quality ABS and PVC plastics, exhibiting a specific texture and weight. Counterfeits often utilize inferior materials, resulting in a noticeably lighter weight, a different texture, or a more brittle feel. The precision of joint construction and paint application are also indicative of authenticity.
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Accessory Accuracy and Completeness
Official releases include a specific set of accessories, such as alternate hands, faces, and effect parts, as detailed on the packaging. Counterfeit versions may omit accessories, include poorly replicated versions, or display inconsistencies in color or molding quality compared to official reference images.
Verification across all elements packaging, markings, materials, and accessories is crucial when acquiring this particular collectible. The presence of any inconsistencies should be regarded as a significant indicator of inauthenticity, impacting both the figure’s value and its collectable status.
2. Character design accuracy
The fidelity with which a figure replicates the source material’s character design significantly impacts its value and appeal to collectors and fans. In the context of figures representing a character, precise adherence to the original design translates directly to consumer satisfaction and perceived quality. This accuracy encompasses several aspects, including, but not limited to, physical proportions, facial features, costume details, and color palettes. Figures failing to meet established standards for character design accuracy often face criticism and diminished market demand.
The significance of character design accuracy can be seen through specific examples. Consider instances where figures exhibit inaccuracies in facial sculpts or costume details. Fan communities often scrutinize these discrepancies, leading to negative reviews and diminished collector interest. Conversely, figures celebrated for their accurate representation often command higher prices and generate positive word-of-mouth, boosting their desirability. The level of detail in paint application, particularly in capturing subtle nuances of shading and texture, also plays a vital role in overall accuracy.
In conclusion, meticulous attention to character design is paramount in the production and reception of figures. Inaccuracies can detract significantly from the perceived value and appeal, impacting both consumer satisfaction and market performance. Collectors prioritize authenticity, seeking figures that faithfully represent the source material. Therefore, manufacturers must invest in rigorous quality control measures to ensure design accuracy throughout the production process.
3. Articulation and posing
Articulation and posing are fundamental aspects of the specific action figure, influencing its display versatility and overall collectibility. The figure’s design incorporates numerous points of articulation, enabling a wide range of dynamic poses mirroring actions and stances from the source material.
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Joint Design and Range of Motion
The figure utilizes ball joints, swivel joints, and hinge joints at various points including the neck, shoulders, elbows, wrists, torso, hips, knees, and ankles. This combination allows for extensive range of motion, facilitating natural-looking poses and recreating signature moves from the related media. The quality and placement of these joints are critical to the figure’s ability to hold poses securely without compromising aesthetics.
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Material Flexibility and Durability
The materials used in the figure’s construction, primarily ABS and PVC plastics, contribute to both its flexibility and durability. Softer PVC is often used in areas requiring greater flexibility, such as the skirt or hair, while more rigid ABS is used for structural integrity in the limbs and torso. This balance ensures that the figure can be posed repeatedly without risk of breakage or joint degradation.
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Posing Stability and Balance
The figure’s design incorporates specific considerations for balance and stability when posed. The feet are often designed with a wide surface area or include die-cast metal components to provide additional weight and grounding. Articulated ankles allow for fine-tuning of the figure’s center of gravity, ensuring that it can maintain complex poses without the need for external support.
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Impact on Display and Photography
Extensive articulation significantly enhances the figure’s display potential. Collectors can create dynamic scenes and recreate iconic moments, adding visual interest to their displays. Furthermore, the figure’s posability makes it ideal for photography, allowing enthusiasts to capture unique and engaging images for sharing and preservation.
The articulation and posing capabilities, therefore, are integral to the figure’s value proposition, providing collectors with the means to interact with and showcase their collection in diverse and engaging ways. The quality of these features is a key differentiator within the action figure market, contributing significantly to the specific collectible’s overall appeal.
4. Accessory inclusion
Accessory inclusion significantly impacts the overall value and appeal of the figure. The provision of alternate hands, facial expressions, energy effect parts, and other character-specific items enhances the display possibilities and allows collectors to recreate iconic scenes. These accessories directly contribute to the figure’s perceived completeness and its ability to accurately represent the character’s abilities and personality.
For example, the inclusion of multiple facial expressions allows for portrayal of the character’s various emotional states, from calm and collected to enraged and powerful. Alternate hands enable the figure to hold accessories or perform specific gestures, further enhancing its dynamic posing capabilities. Energy effect parts, replicating signature attacks, provide a visual representation of the character’s combat prowess. The absence of these accessories diminishes the figure’s ability to fully capture the essence of the character, potentially impacting its market value and desirability among collectors. Furthermore, the quality and detail of the accessories mirror the overall craftsmanship of the figure, contributing to its perceived value and authenticity.
In summation, accessory inclusion is an integral component of the comprehensive package that represents the character in action figure form. The presence of thoughtfully designed and well-executed accessories directly correlates with the figure’s appeal, collectibility, and market value. Collectors often prioritize figures with a comprehensive set of accessories, valuing the added display options and the enhanced ability to accurately represent the character.
5. Rarity and availability
The scarcity and ease of procurement directly influence the market value and collectibility of the articulated figure representing a character, specifically. Limited production runs, exclusive releases, and regional distribution restrictions contribute to its perceived rarity, thereby affecting its availability to collectors.
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Limited Production Runs
A primary factor influencing scarcity is the manufacturer’s decision to produce a limited quantity of the figure. This can be a deliberate strategy to increase demand and exclusivity or a consequence of production constraints. When quantities are restricted, competition among collectors intensifies, driving up prices in the secondary market and making the figure more difficult to obtain.
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Exclusive Releases
Certain iterations are designated as exclusives, available only through specific retailers, conventions, or regions. These exclusive releases further restrict availability, as they are not accessible to the general public through standard distribution channels. This exclusivity increases the desirability and perceived rarity, particularly for collectors outside the designated region or those unable to attend the relevant events.
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Regional Distribution
The distribution of the figure may be limited to specific geographic regions, such as Japan or certain parts of Asia. This regional restriction creates a demand for international shipping, increasing the cost and complexity of acquisition for collectors in other areas. Figures initially released only in specific regions often command a premium in the global secondary market.
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Re-releases and Restocks
The absence of re-releases or restocks significantly contributes to a figure’s long-term rarity. Once the initial production run is sold out, the figure’s availability becomes entirely dependent on the secondary market. The anticipation of a re-release can temporarily stabilize prices, but the absence of a re-release generally leads to further increases in value as the figure becomes increasingly scarce over time.
These factors collectively determine the accessibility of the articulated figure. The interplay between limited production, exclusive availability, regional distribution, and the absence of re-releases creates a complex landscape for collectors seeking to acquire this particular item, driving both its market value and its desirability within the collecting community.
6. Packaging condition
The state of the packaging significantly affects the value and collectibility of the articulated figure. For collectors, the packaging is not merely a container but an integral component of the overall item. A figure with pristine packaging is generally valued higher than one with damage, reflecting the importance placed on preserving the item’s original condition. Creases, tears, dents, or discoloration on the box diminish its perceived value and can impact resale potential. The packaging’s condition serves as an immediate indicator of how well the item has been preserved and handled over time. Consider, for example, an instance where two identical figures are offered for sale; the one with an undamaged box typically commands a higher price due to its superior presentation and perceived collectability.
The impact of packaging condition extends beyond aesthetics. The box provides physical protection for the figure and its accessories, shielding them from dust, light, and physical damage. A compromised box may indicate that the figure itself has been exposed to adverse conditions, potentially affecting its paint quality or structural integrity. Furthermore, the packaging often contains essential information about the figure, such as production details, licensing information, and assembly instructions. Damage to the packaging can obscure or eliminate this information, reducing its historical and archival value. The presence of a mint-condition box also validates the figure’s authenticity, as counterfeit products often feature packaging with noticeable flaws or inconsistencies.
In conclusion, the condition of the packaging is a crucial consideration for collectors. It serves as a visual indicator of the item’s preservation, provides physical protection, and contains vital product information. While the figure itself remains the primary focus, a damaged or compromised box can substantially detract from its overall value and collectibility. Collectors should, therefore, carefully assess the packaging condition before acquiring the articulated figure, recognizing its significance as an integral part of the complete collector’s item.
7. Market resale value
The market resale value of this articulated figure, representing a character, is a dynamic metric influenced by a confluence of factors, extending beyond its initial retail price. Its fluctuation reflects both the intrinsic qualities of the figure and external market forces.
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Character Popularity and Demand
The prominence and enduring appeal of the character within its respective franchise directly impacts the figure’s resale value. Characters with substantial fanbases and continued media presence often command higher prices due to increased demand among collectors. For example, if a character experiences a resurgence in popularity due to a new series or game release, the figure’s value can significantly increase.
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Figure Condition and Completeness
The physical state and completeness of the figure, including the packaging and all original accessories, are critical determinants of its resale value. Figures in mint condition, with unopened packaging and all included components, typically fetch a premium compared to those with wear, damage, or missing accessories. The presence of original packaging is a significant factor in assessing its collectability and authenticity.
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Rarity and Exclusivity
Figures produced in limited quantities, released as exclusives through specific retailers or events, or subject to regional distribution restrictions often exhibit higher resale values. Scarcity amplifies demand, making these figures highly sought after by collectors. Figures designated as convention exclusives or those with limited production runs commonly command a substantial premium in the secondary market.
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Market Trends and Speculation
Prevailing market trends and collector speculation also contribute to value fluctuations. Anticipation of future releases, shifts in collector preferences, and organized buying activity can all influence prices. For example, rumors of a potential re-release can temporarily depress prices, while positive reviews or renewed interest in the character can drive prices upward. Market speculation plays a crucial role in short-term value fluctuations.
These facets, acting in concert, determine the resale value of this articulated figure. Collectors and investors closely monitor these factors to assess the potential value of this figure, highlighting its complexity as an investment and collectible within the broader market.
8. Paint application quality
The quality of paint application is a crucial factor in assessing the overall value and appeal of articulated figures. It significantly influences the figure’s visual fidelity to the source material and its perceived quality as a collectible, directly impacting the item’s market desirability.
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Color Accuracy and Consistency
Accurate reproduction of the character’s color palette is essential. Variations from the source material, even subtle ones, can detract from the figure’s authenticity. Consistent application across the entire figure is also necessary to avoid a patchwork appearance. Accurate and consistent coloration enhances the figure’s visual coherence and faithfulness to the original character design.
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Cleanliness of Application and Detailing
Clean, crisp paint lines are indicative of high-quality manufacturing. Sloppy application, such as bleeding between colors or uneven coverage, diminishes the figure’s aesthetic appeal. Fine details, like facial features and costume elements, require precise application to capture the character’s nuances. Sharp, well-defined details elevate the figure’s overall quality and visual impact.
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Durability and Resistance to Wear
The paint must be durable enough to withstand handling and posing without chipping, scratching, or fading. High-quality paint formulations and application techniques ensure long-term resistance to wear and tear. A durable paint finish preserves the figure’s appearance and protects it from environmental factors, contributing to its long-term collectibility.
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Finishing Coats and Sealants
The application of appropriate finishing coats, such as gloss or matte sealants, enhances the paint’s appearance and provides additional protection. Gloss finishes can create a reflective sheen, while matte finishes offer a more subtle and realistic look. Sealants protect the paint from UV damage and abrasion, extending the figure’s lifespan and maintaining its visual appeal.
Therefore, meticulous attention to paint application is essential. From accurate colors to durable finishes, paint application quality plays a critical role in its overall value. Collectors often scrutinize these details, making paint application a key factor in purchase decisions and valuations.
Frequently Asked Questions Regarding S.H.Figuarts Android 21
The following addresses common inquiries concerning the S.H.Figuarts rendition of Android 21, focusing on aspects relevant to collectors and prospective buyers.
Question 1: What are the key differentiators between the standard and lab coat versions?
The primary distinction lies in the character’s attire. The standard version typically depicts Android 21 in her base form attire, while the lab coat version features her wearing a lab coat, reflecting her scientist persona. Accessory inclusions and color schemes may also differ between the two releases. Collectors should verify specific details through official product descriptions.
Question 2: How can the authenticity of a potentially purchased figure be verified?
Authentication involves careful scrutiny of the packaging for official branding and copyright notices. The figure itself should possess molded markings and stamps. Material quality, accessory accuracy, and paint application consistency are also indicators of authenticity. Comparison with official product images is crucial to identify discrepancies.
Question 3: What articulation limitations should one anticipate?
While designed for posability, the figure’s articulation may be limited by the character’s design or the figure’s construction. Range of motion in certain joints, such as the elbows or knees, may be restricted. Furthermore, bulky clothing or armor can impede articulation. Reviewing product reviews and images can provide insights into specific limitations.
Question 4: What factors influence the figure’s resale value?
The character’s popularity, figure condition, completeness of accessories, and rarity significantly impact resale value. Figures in mint condition, with all original packaging and accessories, typically command higher prices. Limited edition releases and exclusive variants also tend to appreciate in value. Market trends and collector speculation also play a role.
Question 5: What are common paint application issues to examine before purchase?
Potential paint application flaws include inconsistent coloring, bleeding between colors, and uneven coverage. The presence of scratches, chips, or fading can also detract from the figure’s value. Close inspection of the figure under adequate lighting is crucial to identify any paint-related defects.
Question 6: Where are the best sources for acquiring this action figure?
Acquisition can be achieved through authorized retailers, reputable online marketplaces, and collector conventions. Exercise caution when purchasing from unfamiliar sources, as counterfeit products are prevalent. Verifying the seller’s reputation and examining product images closely can mitigate the risk of acquiring an inauthentic or damaged figure.
In summary, careful assessment of authenticity, articulation limitations, paint quality, and market factors is essential for informed decision-making. Collectors should prioritize verifying the figure’s origin and condition to maximize their satisfaction.
The subsequent section will address potential customization options and maintenance recommendations for the figure.
Preservation and Maintenance Guidelines
The following guidelines offer advice on maintaining and preserving the articulated figure, thereby maximizing its longevity and retaining its collector value.
Tip 1: Implement Controlled Environmental Exposure: Minimize exposure to direct sunlight, high humidity, and extreme temperatures. Prolonged exposure to these elements can cause discoloration, paint fading, and material degradation. Displaying the figure in a controlled environment, such as a display case with UV-resistant glass, is recommended.
Tip 2: Handle with Utmost Care: When posing or handling the figure, exercise caution to avoid excessive force or strain on the joints. Repeated or forceful manipulation can lead to joint loosening or breakage. Support the figure at multiple points when posing to distribute stress evenly.
Tip 3: Employ Appropriate Cleaning Methods: Dust accumulation can diminish the figure’s appearance. Utilize a soft brush or microfiber cloth to gently remove dust particles. Avoid using abrasive cleaners or solvents, as they can damage the paint finish. For persistent stains, a slightly dampened cloth may be used, followed by immediate drying.
Tip 4: Store Accessories Securely: When not in use, store all accessories in a dedicated container or compartment to prevent loss or damage. Avoid storing accessories in direct contact with the figure, as this can cause scratches or paint transfer. Label storage containers clearly to facilitate easy retrieval.
Tip 5: Regularly Inspect for Signs of Degradation: Periodically examine the figure for any signs of material degradation, such as cracking, yellowing, or paint peeling. Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further damage. Consult with professional restorers for severe damage or complex repairs.
Tip 6: Limit Contact with Abrasive Surfaces: Placing the figure on abrasive surfaces can scratch or damage the paint finish. Use a soft display base or protective to prevent direct contact with potentially damaging surfaces. Regularly clean the display area to remove dust and debris.
Consistent adherence to these preservation and maintenance guidelines contributes to the figure’s long-term condition and value, ensuring its continued appeal for collectors.
The subsequent final section will summarize the core features.
Conclusion
This exposition has detailed various facets of the s.h.figuarts android 21 figure, spanning its authenticity verification, design accuracy, articulation potential, accessory composition, rarity impacts, packaging considerations, and market value drivers. It underscored the importance of assessing condition, provenance, and collectability factors for informed acquisition and sustained appreciation.
The inherent complexities and nuances associated with collecting s.h.figuarts android 21 necessitate diligent research and responsible stewardship. Continued vigilance and adherence to established preservation practices will secure this collectible’s lasting value and enjoyment for future generations.
