The Soul of Chogokin line is probably one of Tamashii Nation’s premium line of toys and this next review will be all about the SOC GaiGaiGar figure. Like how I did it for the SOC Voltes V figure, this would focus more on the figure’s details and close-up shots of the figure.
This figure review wouldn’t be possible without the help from our friends from GreatToys Online. GreatToys Online is your one-stop-shop for all your Bandai Tamashii Nations figures and needs, so go check ’em out!
Box Design
The box size is almost similar to a SOC Daizyujin box, which tells you that you’re in for a lot of stuff inside it. The box art design showcases the main figure build and the parts that come with it. I liked how they do this as you won’t normally get to open the figures unless you buy them, right?
Remember to always be on the lookout for authenticity seals and stickers to make sure your figures are legitimate and original!
First Thoughts
Since I’ve reviewed SOC figures in the past, my expectations for this set were set quite high – and it did not disappoint! The quality is really premium and the figure itself really is made very well by the team in Tamashii Nations.
The combination of metal die-cast parts both painted and non-painted really goes well with the rest of the plastic parts of the main set.
What’s Inside The Box
The set includes quite a variety of different mechas and interchangeable parts. The SOC GaiGaiGar figure wouldn’t be complete if the mechas won’t be part of the set – GaiGar which turns into Galeon, Stealth Gao, Liner Gao, and Drill Gao are all included.
This set also includes interchangeable head and hand parts for the GaiGar mecha and also for the GaoGaiGar figure – which includes the Hell and Heaven hand pose – once fully built. His weapon, the dividing driver, and small connecting pegs are also included.
Figure Details and Articulation
The parts are basically divided into four main parts and I’ll be sharing my thoughts on each of the parts – starting with the GaiGar figure.
The most interesting feature of the GaiGar figure is that it transforms into the Galeon mecha. The box will feature the GaiGar in its Galeon form once you open it and then you can transform it into GaiGar and then to the main mecha.
I like the details and paint apps on this figure. The details on the mecha were really done well, the pointy parts on the mechas are really pointy so you have to be careful when handling the figure.
Now onto the Stealth Gao, this is the biggest mecha on the set. Even though the mecha is big the weight is quite light. Mainly because the built is quite hollow inside. Hidden compartments are can also be seen inside this mecha.
The next mecha is the Liner Gao – it’s pretty much a bullet train. The main build for this mecha is mainly painted die-cast parts. This also acts as the GaoGaiGar’s arms and shoulders. A connector peg is needed to combine the two sets of trains together – be careful not to lose it.
The etches on the top part of the train play an important role when combining all mechas as it triggers opening parts when combined with the GaiGar figure.
The last mecha is the Drill Gao – this acts as the figure’s main legs and feet. The heels are hidden behind the Drill Gao’s built and the drill will act as the GaoGaiGar’s knees when combined together.
Given the built of the SOC GaoGaiGar figure I already kind of expected a limited articulation especially for its legs given then the Drill Gao is quite bulky – and yes leg movements on the GaoGaiGar figure is quite limited.
The paint application for the GaoGaiGar set is nicely done. Well, it’s just right to expect as this is a premium figure from Tamashii Nations. Although I feel the GaoGaiGar head paint app could be improved more.
Overall Rating
I’d say every part of this figure is worth your money. This GaoGaiGar figure is a good figure to have in your display cabinet or collection. You can check out GreatToys Online‘s website to get your very own Soul of Chogokin GaoGaiGar figure!
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