REVIEW SHFiguarts Kamen Rider Horobi Ark Scorpion: FINAL BATTLE WEAPONS SET, Bandai

5 Nov, 2024

This is review of Bandai tokusatsu action figure SHFiguarts Kamen Rider Horobi Ark Scorpion: FINAL BATTLE WEAPONS SET from Kamen Rider Zero-One Series.

Bandai tokusatsu action figure SHFiguarts Kamen Rider Horobi Ark Scorpion: FINAL BATTLE WEAPONS SET Review

The figure features a newly sculpted head and belt, while the body is repurposed from the Kamen Rider Type-1 model. The red, black, and dark purple color scheme aligns with the character’s menacing "final boss" look in the series, evoking a powerful and sinister presence true to the show.

Head and Facial Details

The new head sculpt preserves Kamen Rider Metsu's original look, with an "infected" appearance on the left side that suggests he is partly consumed by Ark. The compound eye effect is only on the right side, while the left eye is painted in Ark Zero’s signature red. The detailing is sharp, with precise paint applications enhancing the fierce look.

Body and Color Contrast

Though it reuses the Type-1 body, the figure’s altered colors and detailing make it look entirely new. The paintwork is meticulous, ensuring that the character’s unique visual identity comes across without any inconsistencies.

Belt and Progress Key

The Extinction Driver belt is intricately crafted, capturing its complex design faithfully. As with other figures in the Zero-One line, the attached Progress Key can be removed, adding a layer of interactivity.

Arms, Legs, and Back

The limbs and back reuse the Type-1 design but feature a starkly different color scheme, eliminating any noticeable repetition. This distinct color separation contributes to a coherent and fresh aesthetic that fits well with the character’s darker evolution.

Weapons and Accessories

As part of the FINAL BATTLE WEAPONS SET, this release includes a comprehensive array of weapons, previously seen with other riders:

Attaché Calibur: A classic weapon, retained here to allow dual-wielding, replicating scenes from the show.
Progress Hopper Blade: While some collectors may feel this weapon is unnecessary, it enhances the complete set.
Thousand Jacker: Comes with an alternate grip-end accessory, allowing for an extended configuration.
Attaché Arrow: Also includes an exchangeable lever part, increasing display options.

Comparison with Other Figures

When displayed alongside other figures like Metsu and Type-1, the Ark Scorpion version stands out as an evolution rather than a direct continuation. Its compatibility with Type-1’s articulation system ensures consistent posability and ease of movement.

Posability and Action Poses

The Ark Scorpion’s articulation matches that of Type-1, making it possible to create expressive action poses. Although the large collar can somewhat restrict side-to-side head movement when the figure is looking down, it’s generally flexible enough for most poses.

Final Battle Scenarios

This figure is well-suited for staging dramatic battle scenes, especially when paired with characters like Ark One and Realizing Hopper, who was released earlier in 2021. Now, collectors can finally recreate the long-awaited showdown between these two figures.

Summary

The SHFiguarts Kamen Rider Metsu Ark Scorpion FINAL BATTLE WEAPONS SET is an excellent addition to the Zero-One lineup, bringing a powerful villain into the series. Despite the reuse of the Type-1 body, the distinctive proportions and intense color palette capture the character’s personality. The numerous weapon accessories offer a high level of play value, making this figure both visually compelling and enjoyable for fans. While the Zero-One series feels complete with this addition, it’s hoped that the line will continue to expand to include key characters from Kamen Rider Saber and Kamen Rider Revice to fill out other important roles.