Manga Figure Sets for Beginners: A Fun Way to Start Your Collection
As an avid manga fan, I can tell you that building a manga figure collection is one of the most exciting and rewarding hobbies. Whether you’re just starting out or you’ve been a fan for years, manga figure sets offer a unique way to celebrate your favorite characters and series. For beginners, though, it might seem like a bit of a daunting task to know where to start. After all, there are so many different kinds of figures out there! In this article, I'll walk you through everything you need to know about manga figure sets for beginners, and I’ll share some tips to help you get started on the right foot.
1. What Are Manga Figure Sets?
Manga figure sets are collections of figurines inspired by characters from manga (Japanese comics) and anime (Japanese animated TV shows or films). These sets often include highly detailed and articulated figures that are designed to reflect the appearance of characters from your favorite series. You’ll often find figures of protagonists, antagonists, side characters, and sometimes even entire scenes or battles.
These figure sets can vary in size, price, and complexity. Some are simple and affordable, while others are more detailed, making them pricier. As a beginner, it’s important to understand that not all figure sets are the same. Some focus on action poses, others on intricate details, and some even come with a display base or accessories that add extra flair. It’s all about what catches your interest!
2. Why Start Collecting Manga Figures?
When I first started collecting manga figures, I didn’t realize just how rewarding it would be. As a fan of Japanese culture, having physical representations of the characters I admired brought them to life in a way that digital content just couldn’t. It’s an exciting way to bring a piece of your favorite manga or anime into your home.
Additionally, manga figures are a great way to show off your personal tastes and interests. Whether it’s a rare figure of a beloved character or a limited-edition set, your collection becomes a reflection of your unique fandom. Plus, collecting manga figures is an excellent way to bond with others who share the same passion. You’ll find that there’s a large community of collectors who are more than happy to exchange tips and recommendations.
3. Types of Manga Figures to Consider
Now that you know what manga figure sets are, let’s dive into the different types of figures you might encounter as a beginner. There are several categories, each offering a different experience depending on what you’re looking for in your collection.
Scale Figures
Scale figures are some of the most popular and sought-after figures in the manga community. These figures are made with a specific scale in mind, such as 1/8 or 1/12, meaning they are a certain fraction of the character’s real-life height. The level of detail in these figures can be extraordinary, with some even capturing the character’s expression, clothing, and accessories in great depth. These figures are usually posed in dynamic ways, making them great for display purposes.
Action Figures
If you want to pose your characters in different ways, action figures are a fantastic choice. These figures are typically more articulated than scale figures, meaning they have more moving parts. This allows you to recreate scenes or create your own poses. Action figures are generally more affordable and are a good choice for beginners who are looking to collect figures without breaking the bank.
Chibi Figures
Chibi figures are a cute and fun alternative to the more serious and detailed scale figures. Chibi characters are usually depicted with exaggerated features like large heads and small bodies. These figures are often highly stylized and may come in smaller sizes. Chibi figures are a great way to start your collection if you’re into more playful, adorable designs and vibrant colors.
4. How to Start Your Collection
If you’re new to the world of manga figures, it can be hard to know where to begin. The good news is that starting your collection doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here are a few tips that can help guide you through the process:
Set a Budget
One of the first things I learned as a beginner collector was the importance of budgeting. Manga figures can get pricey, and it’s easy to get carried away. Setting a clear budget allows you to focus on the figures you truly want and helps you avoid impulse buying. Start with a set amount that you’re willing to spend, and stick to it. This way, you can build your collection over time without breaking your bank.
Choose a Series or Character You Love
As you explore different figure sets, it can be tempting to buy every figure that catches your eye. But as a beginner, I recommend focusing on one series or character that you truly love. Whether it’s your favorite anime or manga, choosing a theme will help you narrow down your options and give your collection a more cohesive feel. Plus, it makes the hunt for new figures more exciting!
Check Online and Local Stores
When I first started collecting, I made the mistake of assuming that all the best figures were only available in physical stores. But as I learned, online retailers offer a much wider selection of manga figures, often at better prices. Websites like Amazon, eBay, and specialized online figure stores often have a large stock of both common and rare figures. Don’t forget to also check out local comic shops, as they may have hidden gems in their display cases!
5. Popular Manga Figure Brands for Beginners
As a beginner, it can also help to know which figure brands are known for producing high-quality items at reasonable prices. Some of the best brands I discovered early on are:
Good Smile Company
Good Smile Company is one of the most well-known names in the manga figure world. Their Nendoroid line, featuring chibi-style figures, is especially popular among collectors. They also offer scale figures that are highly detailed and beautifully crafted. The quality of their figures is top-notch, making them a great starting point for newcomers.
Banpresto
Banpresto produces a wide variety of affordable and high-quality figures. They often release figures of popular characters from ongoing anime series, making them a go-to for anyone looking to add current characters to their collection. Banpresto also frequently collaborates with other brands, offering limited-edition figures and sets.
Figma
If you're into highly articulated action figures, Figma is a brand you’ll want to check out. Their figures are known for their exceptional posing abilities and durable construction. They’re a great choice if you want to create custom scenes or simply enjoy reposing your figures often.
6. Displaying Your Figures
Once you’ve started your collection, you’ll need a way to display your figures. After all, the joy of collecting doesn’t just come from owning the figures—it’s also about showing them off! Whether you’re limited on space or have an entire shelf dedicated to your collection, there are plenty of creative ways to display your manga figures.
Start with simple display cases or shelves that allow for visibility and protection from dust. If you’re displaying a large number of figures, consider organizing them by series, character, or pose. You can even get creative and add lighting to make your collection stand out even more.
7. Taking Care of Your Collection
Taking care of your manga figures is essential to ensure they last for years. Avoid placing them in direct sunlight to prevent fading, and be careful when cleaning them to avoid damaging the paintwork. Use a soft brush or microfiber cloth to wipe off dust, and if you have articulated figures, handle the joints gently to avoid wear and tear.
With proper care, your manga figures can remain in pristine condition for a long time, making your collection even more rewarding as it grows over time.
As a beginner, collecting manga figures can seem overwhelming, but it’s also one of the most fun and satisfying hobbies out there. With the right knowledge and a bit of patience, you can build a collection that not only represents your love for manga and anime but also adds a personal touch to your space. Happy collecting!
