[RamenRider]

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr Kain

Well here's the thing, those import figures might cost more to us, but to the Japanese, that's the equivalent of a $20 figure. Just look at their DVDs and BDs. A volume that holds 2-5 episodes could cost you anywhere from $50-100. Additionally, those figures are sold in stores in Japan, not just in specialty shops the same way we can buy any Marvel Legends in Target or Walmart.

That... makes no sense. The prices for Japanese home media releases are this high because the market for it is very special. Japanese culture highly favors rental, or nowadays, streaming services. The average Japanese person is not interested in owning DVD's or Blu-rays; it was never a casual thing like it is in the west.

Hardcore collectors do exist however, so the prices for such sets are astronomical for two simple reasons: Not many are made because not many buy them, and those who buy them can afford the price they're asking.

Japanese collectibles are just as expensive over there as they are here. They are not in any shape or form an equivalent to the affordable toy lines in the west. Mostly because they actually have affordable toy lines over there too. Hell, they even officially release Star Wars Black Series and the likes in Japan.

So I don’t know what point you were trying to make when you wrote this, but it just isn’t adding up. Like, at all.

Quote:

Originally Posted by Dr Kain

Also, as companies have proven, just because it cost more doesn't mean it's better. Figuarts are now $60-80 and are prone to the same quality control issues our $20 toys have.

But Figuarts have more articulation, refined sculpting and more paint. That's what you’re paying the extra cash for. If that makes them better or not is for the customer to decide.

And I don’t know about QC issues, I’ve been buying SHF's regularly for more than 6 years now, I had a single one break and a handful of noticeable paint mishaps. Nothing that stopped me from getting more really. As I don’t know the QC of $20 toys very well, you could make an argument that both are solid I guess?