REVIEW SHFiguarts (Shinkocchou Seihou) Kamen Rider Baron: Banana Arms, Bandai

4 Oct, 2024

This is review of Bandai x Tamashii Nation tokusatsu action figure SHFiguarts (Shinkocchou Seihou) Kamen Rider Baron: Banana Arms from Kamen Rider series.

Bandai x Tamashii Nation tokusatsu action figure SHFiguarts (Shinkocchou Seihou) Kamen Rider Baron: Banana Arms Review

This review covers the SHFiguarts (Shinkocchou Seihou) Kamen Rider Baron in his Banana Arms form. Let's dive into the figure's sculpt, articulation, and notable features, including comparisons with previous versions and other related figures like Kamen Rider Gaim.

Full Body Overview

Similar to Kamen Rider Gaim, Kamen Rider Baron has a larger head and a more rounded body, giving it a fuller, more suit-accurate look. However, one issue is the mixed use of painted and molded red parts, which gives the figure an inconsistent appearance compared to the previous version. The contrast between the colors and textures stands out, making it feel less cohesive than the original release.

Head Sculpt

The head of this figure has been significantly enlarged compared to the older version, making the jawline and cheeks more pronounced. While this might seem exaggerated, the broader width enhances the screen accuracy. The intricate visor detailing and internal compound eyes are carefully sculpted, and the iconic banana-shaped horns maintain their realistic form.

Detailed Body Design

The torso, like Gaim’s, has been widened and thickened, mimicking the look of the actual suit. The asymmetrical chest armor, with its banana motif, is faithfully recreated from the show, highlighting the fine craftsmanship in replicating Baron's unique aesthetic.

Waist and Belt Design

Baron sports the same Sengoku Driver belt as Gaim, but with differences in the Lockseed and the design on the left side. The cutting blade on the belt remains movable, and the Lockseed can still be attached and detached as before.

Arms and Legs

The arms and legs are sculpted to appear fuller compared to the earlier release. The main issue here lies with the red coloring, where the upper arms are molded, but the forearms are painted. Similarly, the thighs are molded, and the shins are painted, creating a visible difference in color and texture that detracts from the overall visual harmony.

Back Armor

The back armor maintains the figure's functionality, with the ability to lift and move parts as needed, adding to its playability and posability.

Accessories and Weapons

The Banaspear, Baron's signature weapon, has been upgraded with more detailed paintwork, adding to its visual appeal. While the original version required parts-swapping to adjust the spear’s length, this version allows the spear to be retracted and extended by disassembling and reassembling certain parts.

The Lockseed can be detached from the belt and held, allowing for more dynamic posing. Additionally, a closed version of the Banana Lockseed is included, which can be attached to Gaim’s holder for even more versatility.

Arms Change Feature

One of the exciting new features in this version is the ability to swap parts for Arms Change, allowing fans to mix and match elements of different Riders. For example, by disassembling both Gaim and Baron, you can create Kamen Rider Baron Orange Arms. Similarly, you can also turn Gaim into Kamen Rider Gaim Banana Arms. However, the silver chest armor and head parts are shared between the two, so displaying both at the same time isn’t possible unless compromises are made.

Comparisons with Gaim

When placed next to Gaim, the proportions and overall aesthetic are in harmony with the other Shinkocchou Seihou releases. Both figures maintain a similar height and sculpted details. However, compared to Gaim's near-perfect recreation, Baron's red suit feels like a downgrade due to the inconsistent finish on the molded and painted parts.

Articulation and Posability

The articulation system mirrors Gaim's, offering a range of smooth movements. Without the bulky back helmet like Gaim, Baron’s neck articulation is superior, allowing for more dynamic head poses. Despite the bulky shoulder armor, it can be raised without restricting movement, maintaining excellent posability.

The Banaspear is long enough to be wielded comfortably with both hands, and the figure’s stability ensures it stands well, even with the weapon in hand.

Optional Display and Play Features

Baron can be displayed riding the Rose Attacker, or posed in dynamic battle scenes alongside Kamen Rider Gaim. The articulation is robust enough to recreate iconic battle stances, and the Arms Change gimmick allows for creative team-ups and confrontations.

Summary

The SHFiguarts (Shinkocchou Seihou) Kamen Rider Baron Banana Arms is an impressive figure, maintaining the high-quality sculpt and detail characteristic of the Shinkocchou Seihou line. However, the decision to use a combination of molded and painted red parts diminishes its overall cohesion, especially compared to Gaim’s flawless finish. The articulation is excellent, particularly around the neck area, and the new Arms Change feature adds an element of fun for fans who enjoy mix-and-match playability.

While the figure is well-made, the inconsistency in color and texture for the red areas is a notable drawback, especially considering its premium price of 11,000 yen. Fans who prioritize screen accuracy may feel that this release falls short in comparison to Gaim. However, for those who enjoy creative play and display options, the Arms Change gimmick makes it a fun and versatile addition to the collection.