REVIEW SHFiguarts Kamen Rider Valvarad, Bandai

5 Nov, 2024

This is review of Bandai action figure tokusatsu SHFiguarts Kamen Rider Valvarad from Kamen Rider Gotchard series.

Bandai Action Figure Tokusatsu SHFiguarts Kamen Rider Valvarad Review

This review explores the newly released SHFiguarts Kamen Rider Valvarad. Unlike previous figures, this is a completely new mold rather than a re-use, and it impressively captures Valvarad’s unique design as a Kamen Rider with detailed paintwork and bold color choices. The deep purple hues and gradient effects make for a stunning and eye-catching finish.

Overall Look and New Molding

Valvarad appears as a completely new character without parts carried over from previous figures. Dominated by purple, the figure’s coloration is both striking and carefully applied, with gradient areas adding depth and appeal. The paintwork is thorough and highlights the character’s intricate design.

Head Sculpt and Eye Detailing

The head sculpt maintains Valvarad’s signature asymmetric design, with a mask-like design on the left side that appears sharper than its previous rendition. Both eyes are compound eyes, true to the Rider style, with unique coloring on each side. The gradient effect on the right eye is recreated beautifully, enhancing the figure’s vivid appearance.

Chest and Body Features

Valvarad’s chest has a broad, sturdy design that incorporates booster and scarf elements, creating a more muscular look. This complex design has been faithfully captured, maintaining the accuracy of the original on-screen appearance through detailed shape and color work.

Waist and Belt

The Valvara Driver belt is rendered with impressive accuracy and precision, adding a touch of realism to the figure’s waist area.

Arms, Legs, and Fabric Changes

The figure departs from Valvarad’s earlier version, with sharper arms and legs and an overall streamlined design. Notably, while the previous version had fabric pants, this figure comes in a standard suit material, adding to the Rider aesthetic.

Back and Flexible Parts

All parts hanging from the waist are made from soft material, adding a layer of flexibility while maintaining the figure’s detailed look.

Accessories and Weapons

Valvarasher: The signature weapon from Valvarad’s previous form is included, and it retains the same functionality, transforming between blade and gun modes by bending the blade base. It can also be mounted on Valvarad’s back, just like the original.

Comparisons and Poseability

The head and upper torso coloring are similar to the original Valvarad, but other features differ significantly, giving this version a fresh look and a slightly taller stature. When posed with other main Riders such as Gotchard and Magade, Valvarad completes a dynamic trio.

Articulation and Movement Limitations

Using the Gotchard series’ joint system, Valvarad’s articulation is overall strong. However, the bicep swivel is positioned near the shoulder joint, slightly restricting shoulder movements. The figure’s collar also limits head turning when tilted downward, and the broad chest reduces the range of two-handed poses.

Dynamic Action Poses and Battle Scenes

The figure performs well in action poses, with the hip joints capable of a kneeling stance, making gun mode poses feel natural. The Valvarasher can be wielded in both blade and gun modes, and Valvarad’s thicker chest doesn’t hinder typical Rider poses. The figure captures iconic moves like kicks and weapon stances with ease, allowing recreations of battles against familiar foes like Gotchard.

Summary

In line with other Gotchard series figures, SHFiguarts Kamen Rider Valvarad presents the character in show-accurate proportions with intricate, sharp detailing on its complex suit. The paintwork, particularly the gradient effects, is meticulous, resulting in a figure that is both visually striking and authentic.

While articulation is slightly restricted by the collar, thick chest, and unique bicep swivel position, these limitations don’t significantly impact the figure’s overall functionality. Valvarad’s primary moves are faithfully recreated, providing an enjoyable experience for posing and play. Anticipation builds for the next figure in the Gotchard series, Dread Zero Type, a character with close ties to Valvarad and a promising addition to this lineup.