Anime has captivated audiences worldwide with its vibrant storytelling, unique art styles, and memorable characters. For fans, collecting anime figures is more than just a hobby; it’s a way to celebrate and cherish their favorite series and characters. If you’re considering starting your own collection of anime figures, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to get started and make your collection stand out.
1. Identify Your Interests
Before you dive into collecting anime figures, it’s crucial to determine which series or characters you are most passionate about. Anime figures come in various types, including:
- Main Characters: Figures of popular characters from major anime series like Naruto, One Piece, or Dragon Ball.
- Supporting Characters: Figures featuring beloved side characters that may not be as well-known but still hold a special place in fans’ hearts.
- Limited Editions: Special releases that often include unique designs, accessories, or exclusive features.
Focusing on specific interests will help you narrow down your choices and build a collection that is both meaningful and personal.
2. Research and Set a Budget
Anime figures vary widely in price, from affordable options to high-end collectibles. Research different brands, types of figures, and their market values to set a realistic budget. Some popular brands to consider are:
- Good Smile Company: Known for their high-quality Nendoroid and Figma figures.
- Banpresto: Offers a range of affordable figures with excellent detail.
- Kotobukiya: Provides intricately designed statues and figures.
Setting a budget will help you manage your expenses and prioritize which figures to add to your collection.
3. Purchase from Reputable Sources
To avoid counterfeit figures and ensure you’re getting genuine products, it’s essential to buy from reputable sources. Here are some trusted options:
- Official Retailers: Websites like Amazon, Crunchyroll Store, and BigBadToyStore often offer a wide range of anime figures.
- Specialized Anime Stores: Shops dedicated to anime merchandise, both online and in physical locations, can be reliable sources.
- Conventions and Expos: Anime conventions often have vendors selling exclusive figures and limited editions.
Avoid buying from dubious or unknown sellers, as they might offer counterfeit products.
4. Understand Different Figure Types
Anime figures come in various forms, each with its own characteristics:
- Scale Figures: These are detailed statues that represent characters in a specific scale, often 1/8 or 1/7.
- Nendoroids: These are chibi-style figures with interchangeable parts and accessories.
- Figmas: Highly poseable figures with multiple points of articulation and accessories.
- Pop Figures: Stylized figures often with exaggerated features, popular for their cute designs.
Understanding these types will help you decide which figures best fit your collection goals.
5. Display and Care
Proper display and care are essential to maintaining the quality and value of your anime figures. Here are some tips:
- Display Cases: Use display cases to protect your figures from dust and sunlight. This also helps prevent accidental damage.
- Cleaning: Regularly dust your figures with a soft, dry cloth. Avoid using chemicals that could damage the paint.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause colors to fade. Display your figures in a well-lit, but not sunlit, area.
Proper care ensures that your collection remains in excellent condition for years to come.
6. Join Anime Collectors’ Communities
Connecting with other anime collectors can provide valuable insights, tips, and opportunities to expand your collection. Join online forums, social media groups, or local meet-ups to share your passion, learn from experienced collectors, and discover new figures.
7. Stay Informed About Releases
The world of anime figures is constantly evolving with new releases and limited editions. Keep up-to-date with announcements from manufacturers, follow anime news websites, and subscribe to newsletters from retailers to ensure you don’t miss out on new additions to your collection.
Conclusion
Starting a collection of anime figures can be an exciting and rewarding experience for any fan. By focusing on your interests, setting a budget, purchasing from reputable sources, understanding different figure types, and taking proper care of your collection, you’ll build a collection that reflects your passion for anime. Whether you’re drawn to the charm of Nendoroids or the elegance of scale figures, remember that each figure represents a piece of the anime world that you cherish. Happy collecting !