My Top 5 Favorite S.H. MonsterArts Figures (So Far...)

Written by Arlo Hansen

Since I wrote an article on Our Top 5 Favorite X-Plus Figures (So Far...) article the other day, it's fair enough to do one for my favorite MonsterArts figures as well.

Bandai Tamashii Nations' S.H. MonsterArts figure series is what essentially got me back into the hobby of figure collecting. For a few years (2008 to 2011) I was on a collecting hiatus. Why? Because, at the time, I was unaware of any new Godzilla figures that were within my price range. During that time I settled with what I already had and began a very small collection of Revoltech Evangelion figures. Other than that, Godzilla was at the back of my mind. When Bandai announced the S.H. MonsterArts series and unveiled their first two releases, Godzilla (1994) and MechaGodzilla (1993), I knew I was hooked. I made it a point to collect every single MonsterArts figure - though the recent Alien and Predator figures put a wedge in that goal since - forgive my bluntness - they sucked! Regardless, I continue to collect every Godzilla-related MonsterArts figure that Bandai puts out, and until they end the line, I don't think I'll stop!

So, let us get to our list shall we?

#1 - MFS-3 Kiryu (Both Versions!)

What!? Two figures? This shouldn't count, right? Anyways, the MonsterArts Kiryu has taken me by surprise when I first received the 2002 version (top picture) back in October 2013. It was the first Millennium series figure to be introduced and released in the S.H. MonsterArts series, and it's dynamic range of articulation and interchangeable parts makes it a fantastic release! The 2003 version (dubbed the Heavy Arms/High Mobility version) is pretty much the same figure with the exterior details changed up. Instead of a clean chrome color, the Heavy Arms version has a dulled and worn out metallic coloration, which greatly differentiates it from the initial release. Both Kiryus are an amazing example of the MonsterArts line at its best.

#2 - Gigan 2004

Gigan 2004 was another release that caught me by surprise upon its reveal. However, as it turns out, it shaped up to be one of the better MonsterArts releases in recent years. It perfectly captures the ferocity of the suit as seen in Godzilla: Final Wars (2004.) It also comes with a wide range of interchangeable parts to transform it into it's Upgraded form. I had assumed that the introduction of Gigan's 2004 design in the MonsterArts line would open up more possibilities for the series and lead into bringing in figures of Godzilla 2004, and/or even Monster X. A year has passed, and still nothing. But, never say never! Regardless, Gigan was another solid release in the MonsterArts line and holds up as one of the best overall. 

#3 - Mothra and Battra Larva Set

This two-figure set is certainly one of the best dual releases in the MonsterArts figure line. Both Battra and Mothra's larval forms are meticulously detailed, especially Battra! While their adult forms are amazing figures in themselves, the larva versions are flat-out amazing in all possible ways. More than anything, the Battra larva is the best of the two figures and possesses an incredible sculpt and astounding paint applications. 

#4 - Space Godzilla

At the time of it's release, and for quite sometime beyond, Space Godzilla was the best figure in the MonsterArts line. To this day it still is pretty great. However, given that last year's Godzilla 1995 (Birth Ver.) figure essentially acts as a "renewal" version for the first Godzilla figure released, Space Godzilla no longer stands in scale. Does that mean we could, one day in the not so distant future, see a brand new Space Godzilla sculpt? Or at least a reissue? Who knows. I would not bet on it, but it's certainly nice to think about even if it is a pipe-dream. Still, Space Godzilla is an amazing figure. My figure has very minor issues like a loose knee cap and the tip of its tail sometimes falls off with the lightest touch, but when left alone and admired from a distance, Space Godzilla is truly a gem. It's shelf presence is exemplified when displayed with the crystal spires that come with the MonsterArts Little Godzilla figure. 

#5 - Godzilla 2000 Millennium 

Last, but not least, is Godzilla 2000 Millennium, which is by far the BEST Godzilla figure that Bandai has released in the S.H. MonsterArts line. It has very few issues, like the fact that it can't rear back as much, but the positives of this figure certainly outweigh the negatives! It is amazingly detailed by famed monster sculptor, Yuji Sakai. It also possesses a great range of articulation, especially in the tail, which we have not seen ever since it's release in late 2013. It has become one of the most popular figures in the entire line, and is getting a special repaint later this month. It's definitely my top favorite MonsterArts Godzilla figure. While this particular concept design from Yuji Sakai is flat-out amazing, I still yearn for a suit-accurate Godzilla 2000 MonsterArts figure to be made.

I would certainly love to add more figures to this list, but like in my previous post, these are what come to mind first and foremost when asked about my top five favorites. What are your top favorite MonsterArts figures? Share your thoughts with us in the comments section below!