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The Bandai Creation Godzilla toyline has been a
bit of a mystery since it's inception. First announced
in 2002, the line would become the first wide release
of Godzilla toys based on the Toho series in America
since the Trendmasters line in the mid 1990's. Finally
trickling into stores in 2003, they were initially
very hard to track down and could be found almost exclusively
at the KB Toys chain. Following the original four figures
and two "playsets" released, three more sets of 6" figures,
released in sets of 4, would be released with literally
no promotion or announcement. While it is unknown if
the line will continue or not, the most recent series
was released in late 2007, along with the surprising
announcement of two twelve-inch figures, Final Wars
Godzilla and Kiryu.
These two larger figures have proven to be extremely
rare, with most people resorting to eBay or various
online retailers to own them. Godzilla figures made
above the 8 inch scale are rare to begin with, and
with the limited distribution these figures have
received in a few years they may become true "rare
toys" that could command a decent price if kept mint
in package.
But whats the fun in that?
Kiryu (Identified simply as "Mechagodzilla" on the
packaging) from Godzilla
Against Mechagodzilla (2002) stands
12 inches tall, and is roughly 12 inches from toenail
to tail tip. He articulates in both arms, the neck,
tail and waist. His legs are immobile. The American
division of Bandai put a fair bit of work into the
detail here, molding several bolts and plates into
the vinyl. He is all silver, as he should be, with
yellow eyes, black 'cable' parts molded into his limbs,
and red triangle insignia on his arms and legs.
The sculpt is nice, as Kiryu looks to be advancing
on his enemy. Sadly, his missile launching 'backpack'
was not included, nor are his wrist mounted cannons, but
many Kiryu toys omit these accessories. I do question
the decision to mold his legs in place so they can
not be moved, something that would thankfully not be
mirrored in the 12" Godzilla released alongside Kiryu.
Though American released Godzilla toys usually
pale in comparison to their Japanese counterparts,
I feel Kiryu deserves a strong recommendation. The
sculpt is detailed, accurate, and fitting for the character.
Kiryu looks nice on display, and with a retail price
of $14.99 you won't mind buying one for yourself and
one for any younger G-Fans in the house to play with,
assuming of course you can find him. For these reasons,
in spite of the stationary legs and lack of weapons,
I still give Kiryu a grade of 4/5 stars. A great toy
for a great price, I truly hope Bandai Creation will
continue their Godzilla series and add to the 12" line.
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