Although I have not gotten my full Army yet, thanks to a fellow board member I have gotten my hands on a set of the Japanese. Here’s a nit-picky review for those that care for that sort of thing – others can skip it and just know that they’re pretty damn sweet.
The articulation is the best yet, though not PTE by any means. Shoulder socket and swivel above the knee are the main difference. They are the sturdiest XD ever, and are more plastic than rubbery like the Marines. They can crouch and shoot so much better than the USMC. They have no markings (this may be accurate) but the uniforms are well done with folds & creases that will allow you to weather them if you want.
Packaging: my beef here was no picture of the figure from behind on the back of the card like we had with the Paras. This allowed you to see where everything should go – and there is a LOT of gear – although it can be deciphered pretty easy. Kids might get frustrated……(but we know these are not for them, hehe).
Also there are twist ties – these figures were meant for retail. Even some of the cool gear is twist tied so not to be boosted.
The figures:
The Lt.’s sword does not go in the sheeth, which would have been cool, but he is better than I expected overall. The Machine Gunner comes with ALL the cool gear, which should have been spread around a bit. He’s obviously a great figure but the Private with the sub-machine gun is my favorite thanks to a cool weapon, ‘normal’ facial expression, and overall appearance. The rifle with bayonet is lacking detail, and the guy with the mortar has no other weapon.
![Confused :?](./images/smilies/icon_confused.gif)
But he does have special boots.
![Cool 8)](./images/smilies/icon_cool.gif)
I can see the mortar guy warming pegs if only because he is so limited. I would say the same of the Lt. but the whole sword thing goes a long way.
Overall, a few hiccups but
VERY NICE. Possibly best figures yet imo, in a tight race with BoB Germans which still kick ass. I can’t wait to line up a few full squads.
![Very Happy :D](./images/smilies/icon_biggrin.gif)