Figma 385 Bionic JoshiKosei Review: Articulation, Accessories, and Value

The Figma 385 Bionic JoshiKosei is a standout release from the Arms Note series by Max Factory. As part of the figma lineup, this figure brings a unique blend of sci-fi design and high articulation. In this review, we'll dive deep into its build quality, articulation, accessories, and overall value, helping you decide if it deserves a spot in your collection.

Arms Note figures are known for their intricate mechanical details and futuristic aesthetics, and the Bionic JoshiKosei is no exception. With its schoolgirl-inspired design fused with cybernetic enhancements, this figure appeals to both mecha enthusiasts and fans of character-driven collectibles. Let's see how it performs in hand.

Unboxing and First Impressions

The Figma 385 Bionic JoshiKosei comes in a standard figma window box, featuring vibrant artwork and a clear view of the figure. Inside, you'll find the figure, multiple interchangeable face plates, hands, a rifle, a shield, and a dedicated stand. The packaging is sturdy and collector-friendly, ensuring the contents stay protected during transit.

Upon first handling, the figure feels solid and well-constructed. The paint application is clean, with subtle gradients on the armor parts and crisp panel lines. The mechanical joints are tight, and the overall sculpt captures the character's design faithfully. It's clear that Max Factory put significant effort into this release.

• Includes figure, stand, rifle, shield, and multiple hands/faces
• High-quality paint and detailing
• Sturdy packaging ideal for storage

Articulation and Poseability

Articulation is where the Figma 385 Bionic JoshiKosei truly shines. The figure features a wide range of motion, including a double-jointed neck, ball-jointed shoulders, and hinged elbows and knees. The torso has a slight crunch, and the hips are on ball joints, allowing for dynamic action poses. The ankles are articulated with a pivot, enabling stable ground contact.

The mechanical wings on the back are mounted on hinged arms, which can be adjusted to various angles. This adds to the figure's versatility, making it easy to recreate scenes from the source material or just have fun experimenting. The joints hold their positions well, even under the weight of the accessories, which is a common concern with highly articulated figures.

One minor issue is that the shoulder pads can hinder arm movement slightly, but with careful adjustment, you can achieve most poses. Overall, the articulation is above average for a figma, and it's a joy to pose.

• Double-jointed neck and ball-jointed torso for expressive poses
• Hinged elbows and knees with good range
• Wings on adjustable arms for dynamic display

Accessories and Extras

The accessory set is generous. You get three face plates: a standard neutral expression, a determined combat face, and a smiling face with closed eyes. Each face is well-painted with clear printing, and swapping them is easy thanks to the magnetic face attachment system (a feature common in recent figmas).

For weaponry, the Bionic JoshiKosei includes a futuristic rifle with a removable magazine and a shield that can attach to the forearm. The rifle has a few moving parts, adding to the realism. The shield features a clear panel that can be positioned over the arm, and it doesn't interfere with articulation too much.

Additionally, you get multiple pairs of hands, including fists, open palms, and gripping hands, all with the standard figma wrist ball joints. The stand is the standard figma stand with a clear arm and peg, which is sufficient for holding the figure in airborne poses. While not as extensive as some other figma releases, the accessories cover all essential needs.

• Three face plates with magnetic swap system
• Rifle with removable magazine and shield
• Multiple hand options for various poses

Comparison with Other Arms Note Figures

Arms Note is a sub-line of figma that focuses on original mechanical designs. Compared to other figures in the series, the Bionic JoshiKosei stands out for its balance of humanoid proportions and cybernetic details. It's less bulky than some of the more heavily armored figures, making it easier to pose in natural stances.

If you're a fan of the Arms Note aesthetic, you might also appreciate other figures in the line, but the Bionic JoshiKosei offers a unique silhouette. For collectors who enjoy customizing, the figure's parts are compatible with other figma accessories, allowing for cross-compatibility and creative mixing.

In terms of value, the Figma 385 is priced competitively within the figma line, offering a good amount of content for the price. It's a solid addition to any collection, especially if you're drawn to sci-fi or mecha themes.

Final Verdict and Recommendations

The Figma 385 Bionic JoshiKosei is a well-crafted figure that delivers on both form and function. Its articulation is top-notch, the accessories are useful, and the overall design is striking. Whether you're a seasoned collector or new to figma, this figure is a worthwhile investment.

If you're looking to expand your collection with other high-quality figures, consider checking out the Pop Up Parade Rikka Takarada L Size from Gridman Universe or the Nendoroid Formidable from Azur Lane. These figures offer different styles but share the same level of craftsmanship, making them great companions to the Bionic JoshiKosei.

For tools and supplies to maintain your figures, the GM21 Gray Liner (Brush Type) Gundam Marker is excellent for panel lining details. It's a must-have for any builder looking to enhance their mecha figures.

In summary, the Figma 385 Bionic JoshiKosei is a fantastic addition to any figma collection. Its impressive articulation, thoughtful accessories, and striking design make it a standout piece. Whether you're a fan of Arms Note or just love high-quality figures, this one is definitely worth adding to your cart. Explore more at Panda Hobby and find your next favorite figure today!