REVIEW SHFiguarts (Shinkocchou Seihou) Kamen Rider Next Kaixa, Bandai

23 Aug, 2024

This is review of Bandai action figure SHFiguarts (Shinkocchou Seihou) Kamen Rider Next Kaixa from V Cinext Kamen Rider 555 20th Paradise Regained.

Bandai action figure SHFiguarts (Shinkocchou Seihou) Kamen Rider Next Kaixa Review

The overall design of Kamen Rider Next Kaixa shows subtle changes compared to Next Faiz. While the head and chest armor have undergone noticeable transformations, the abdomen and limbs remain largely unchanged from the original Kaixa, with fewer alterations compared to Faiz.

Head Sculpt

Similar to Faiz, the compound eyes retain their original shape, but a clear visor has been added to the front. Unlike Faiz, whose eye color was significantly lightened, Next Kaixa retains the original vibrant hue. Additional details have been added to the sides of the head, and the design of the forehead and mask has been modified.

Chest and Armor Details

The chest armor features a round design, consistent with Faiz. The symbol on the chest is an X-shape representing Kaixa, with intricate detailing that adds a sense of precision to the overall appearance.

Belt and Waist

Unlike Next Faiz, where the entire belt was redesigned, Kaixa retains the original Kaixa Driver, with only the Kaixa Phone being altered. The buckle can be rotated 90 degrees, but unfortunately, the Kaixa Phone tends to fall off easily, which is a bit disappointing.

Arms and Legs

The shoulder armor is larger, similar to Faiz, but the limbs remain the same as the original Kaixa, though the sculpting is new as the original Shinkocchou Seihou Kaixa has not yet been released.

Back and Accessories

The back details remain faithful to the original design, and various accessories are included, such as the Kaixa Cross Slasher. This weapon can be used in different modes by changing the grip, allowing for varied poses. However, the lack of a dedicated hand for holding the Kaixa Phone is a drawback, as it requires using an open hand for support.

Transformation and Form Changes

The head, chest, and Kaixa Phone can be swapped out to convert the figure into the Accel Form (pre-startup). The head transforms with red eyes, and the internal molding is removed, significantly altering the appearance. The chest armor also gains additional detail, and the Kaixa Phone’s screen changes accordingly.

Comparison with Other Figures

Compared to Shinkocchou Seihou Next Faiz and the regular Kaixa, Next Kaixa’s release precedes the original Kaixa’s Shinkocchou Seihou version. When the original Kaixa is eventually released, it’s likely that parts from this Next Kaixa will be reused for consistency.

Posing and Articulation

Articulation is largely similar to Next Faiz, with the figure capable of achieving various poses. However, certain poses, like grabbing the collar, are challenging due to limited range of motion. The Kaixa Cross Slasher can switch modes by changing the grip, but the lack of additional accessories such as Kaixa Shot or Kaixa Pointer is noticeable.

Summary

While Next Kaixa was released before the regular Kaixa, the figure lives up to the Shinkocchou Seihou standard with accurate proportions, detailed sculpting, and precise paintwork. The articulation is generally good, though there are minor issues like the loose Kaixa Phone and the inability to fully close the legs. Despite these small drawbacks, the included weapons and gimmicks are faithfully recreated, leaving little room for major complaints.

Given the importance of the regular Kaixa, it’s about time for its release, especially since it’s been around a year since Shinkocchou Seihou Faiz was launched.