Today we’re looking at the highly anticipated SH Figuarts Minato Namikaze figure, a part of the Naruto Top 99 Edition series.
If you don’t know, this series was inspired by a worldwide poll to see which character would get their own manga and your boy the yellow Flash came out on top.
The figure pays homage to this achievement, featuring artwork by Kishimoto that showcases the top characters, making it a must-have for fans.
Where to Get SHF
Amazon.com
Unboxing
Right off the bat, the box art is impressive. The design is sleek and modern, aligning well with the aesthetic of recent releases, but it has a distinct flair that sets the Narutop 99 Edition apart.
Details
At first glance, the face sculpt is stunning. The paint application is meticulous, and the hair sculpt features beautiful shading that gives it depth.
The vibrant colors, especially the bright green of his vest and the detailed red strap on his cloak, pop visually just like the manga. There are minor inconsistencies in the color matching of the sleeves and cloak though.
The cloak itself is made from a softer plastic, allowing for some movement, although it can feel a bit stiff at times. The detailing in the flames and the legs is impressive, with familiar leg designs that hint at the possibility of more Konoha ninja figures in the future.
Accessories
The figure comes packed with an extensive array of accessories, which is always a plus for collectors. You get four interchangeable face plates: a shouting face, a neutral expression, a closed-eyed smile, and a full-teeth grin.
Additionally, there’s a complete selection of hands, including those for holding kunai, performing jutsu, and even shadow clone poses. The inclusion of a scroll and a kunai with a Flying Thunder God seal adds significant value, showcasing details that fans will appreciate.
Articulation
When it comes to articulation, the figure is mostly good. The collar does limit some movement, but overall, you can achieve a wide range of poses.
The butterfly joints allow for decent arm movement, and the double-jointed elbows provide the flexibility needed for dynamic poses. The ability to swap hands and accessories is seamless, allowing for quick transitions between poses.
The only issue is that cloak. It just doesn’t flow and kind of gets in the way.
In conclusion, the SH Figuarts Minato Namikaze figure is a fantastic tribute to one of Naruto’s most iconic characters. Despite minor color discrepancies and the cloak’s stiffness, the overall craftsmanship, articulation, and array of accessories make this figure a standout. For fans who missed out on the original release, this version is an absolute no-brainer. It’s not just a figure; it’s a celebration of Minato’s legacy in the Naruto universe. If you’re a fan, you might even find yourself tempted to snag a second one for display!
