Some of Japan’s most famous characters created by legendary manga-ka Fujiko F Fujio have been turned into robots by Bandai, which can then be combined to create an even more epicly-super-cool robot of retro awesomeness!
Fujiko Fujio was the name used collaboratively by manga artists Hiroshi Fujimoto and Motoo Abiko when they worked as a duo. Fujimoto also used the name Fujiko F Fujio when he worked alone (Abiko worked as Fujiko Fujio A). He passed away in 1996, and continues to be remembered as one of Japan’s best-loved and most influential manga artists. His most famous work is undoubtedly Doraemon, the tale of a time-traveling robotic cat that is still loved by Japanese of all ages today. The release of Bandai’s new toy celebrates 40 years of Bandai’s Chogokin or ‘Super Alloy’ brand, first launched in 1974, as well as 80 years since Fujimoto’s birth.
The line is called ‘Chogattai! SF Robot Fujiko F Fujio Characters’, and includes the following six robot-icized character:
1. Doraemon, Fujimoto’s most famous character, from Doraemon
2. Dorami, Doraemon’s little sister from Doraemon
3. Perman from Perman
4. Korosuke the robot from Kiteretsu Daihyakka
5. Chinpui the alien from Chinpui
6. Gonsuke the robot from 21emon
It also includes three items: Fujimoto’s trademark beret hat and kabura pen, and the ‘secret gadget’ time machine that appears in Doraemon.
The six robot figures and three items can be combined to transform into a 22.5cm (8.9 inch) super-robot!
Another treat for the fans is that in this form, the design of the head part with the helmet closed is reminiscent of the giant robot Zanda Cross that appeared in the 1986 movie Doraemon: Nobita and the Steel Troops. Additionally, the official site is showing a special promotional video that features a new animation made especially to advertise the toy where many of Fujimoto’s characters pop up. It’s a must-see for fans!
The toy is due to go on sale on November 29 at a price of 14,904 yen (US$146). You can pre-order it now online or in stores. It’ll also be on display in the Bandai booth at the 2014 Tokyo Toy Show to be held at Tokyo Big Site on June 14 and 15, so you can go check it out even if you don’t have the bucks to buy your own.
Source: Eiga.com, Official Site
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Images: Rakuten
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