Nendoroid Beginner's Guide | Complete Explanation from First Purchase to Displaying
Nendoroid Beginner's Guide | Complete Explanation from First Purchase to Displaying
Nendoroid is a figure that allows you to enjoy anime and game characters in a cute deformed style. For those purchasing for the first time, there may be concerns such as, "Where can I buy it?" "Is it difficult to handle?" "Am I going to break the parts?"
In this article, we will explain all the necessary information for Nendoroid beginners, from basic knowledge to purchasing methods, unboxing procedures, proper handling, displaying, and storage methods. We will carefully explain even the points that are prone to mistakes so that those starting with Nendoroid can enjoy it with peace of mind.
What is Nendoroid? Basic Knowledge Beginners Should Know
Nendoroid is a deformed figure series approximately 10cm in size developed by Good Smile Company. Since the release of the first model in 2006, characters from a wide range of genres including anime, games, movies, and Vtubers have been commercialized and loved by fans around the world.
The biggest charm is its cute design with a rounded shape, deformed to a balance of about 2 to 3 heads in height. Unlike realistic figures, its friendly appearance makes it easy to blend into interior decor. Additionally, the joints are movable, allowing for various poses and expressions by swapping parts.
The appeal of Nendoroid lies not only in displaying them but also in the ability to customize them to your liking. Having your favorite character at hand and being able to change poses or expressions according to your mood is a unique enjoyment not found with other figures.
Three Features of Nendoroid
Nendoroid has three major features that even beginners can enjoy.
1. Cute Deformed Design
The balance of 2 to 3 heads in height features a large head and a small body. With big eyes and a rounded form, any character looks adorable. Even those who are not fond of realistic figures can easily display Nendoroid due to its design.
2. Abundant Parts for Free Pose Changes
Nendoroid comes with multiple hand parts and accessories. Since the joints of the arms and legs are movable, you can create various poses such as sitting, running, or holding weapons. On the official website and social media, you can also find creative poses made by other collectors for reference.
3. Enjoy Various Expressions with Expression Parts
Most Nendoroids come with more than three types of expression parts. By swapping faces to match the scene, you can bring out the character's charm even more with expressions like smiling, angry, or crying. Switching expressions is easy and can be mastered quickly by beginners.
Size and Weight | Reference for Displaying Location
The total height of Nendoroid is approximately 10cm (100mm). Its compact size fits in the palm of your hand, making it easy to display on a desk or in a small space on a bookshelf. To visualize the actual size, it might help to think of it as about half the height of a 500ml plastic bottle.
The weight is approximately 50 to 100g for the main body, making it lightweight. Even including the base, it weighs around 150g, allowing you to display multiple figures without putting a strain on the shelf.
The base is circular or square with a diameter of about 6 to 8cm, made of transparent plastic. The base has a hole where a support pillar is inserted to secure the Nendoroid. When securing display space, be sure to consider the width of the base as well. If using a dedicated case, a space of 12cm in height × 10cm in width × 10cm in depth is sufficient to display one figure.
Deciding on a display location before purchasing allows you to set it up immediately upon arrival. It’s important to choose a stable, flat place that is not exposed to direct sunlight.
Price and Purchase Locations for Nendoroid
Before purchasing Nendoroid, you may be concerned about the price and where to buy it. For first-timers, there are many questions such as, "Where is a reliable place to buy?" and "What is the retail price?" Here, we will explain the price range of Nendoroid and reliable purchasing sources in detail.
- New Product Price Range
- Where to Buy? Recommended Purchase Locations
- How to Check Reservation and Release Dates
New Product Price Range
The standard price for a Nendoroid is typically 6,000 to 7,000 yen (including tax) for the regular version. This price includes the main figure, about three types of facial expression parts, multiple hand parts, a base, and a dedicated support pole. Prices may vary depending on the character and included accessories, but for a standard product aimed at beginners, you can expect it to be around 6,500 yen.
In the case of limited editions or special editions, it can exceed 8,000 to 10,000 yen. These versions come with additional parts or bonuses, which raises the price. For first-time buyers, it is recommended to start with the regular version.
You might feel that it is "expensive for a figure," but there are reasons for the price of Nendoroids. They are packed with value that allows for long-term enjoyment, such as high-quality paint with meticulous detailing, customization options with multiple parts, and durability that allows for pose changes repeatedly. Once purchased, you can enjoy it for years by changing how you display it, so the cost performance is definitely not bad.
Where to Buy? Recommended Purchase Locations
Nendoroids can be purchased from various places, including official websites, online shopping sites, and physical stores. Here are some recommended places for beginners to buy from.
Official Website (Good Smile Company Online Shop)
The safest option is the official online shop of Good Smile Company, the manufacturer. You can be sure to get genuine products, and you can check reservation and release information quickly. By registering as a member, you can also receive information about limited products and restocks.
Online Shopping Sites (Amazon, AmiAmi, Animate, etc.)
You can also purchase from major online shopping sites like Amazon, AmiAmi, and Animate Online Shop. There may be opportunities for point returns or sales, allowing for potentially cheaper purchases. However, be cautious as buying from unauthorized sellers carries the risk of counterfeit products, so always verify that the seller is trustworthy.
Physical Stores (Animate, Gamers, Rashinban, etc.)
If you want to physically check the box, stores like Animate and Gamers are recommended. You can consult with staff, which is especially reassuring for beginners. However, popular products may have limited stock in-store, so it’s a good idea to check availability in advance.
For first-time purchases, it is safest to choose official sites or authorized sales from major online shopping sites.
How to Check Reservation and Release Dates
Many Nendoroids are made to order, and if you do not place an order during the reservation period, you may not be able to purchase them at the standard price. After release, they can easily become scarce, and prices may soar to premium levels, so it is recommended to purchase items of interest during the reservation phase.
Reservation information is announced periodically on Good Smile Company's official website and Twitter account. New product information is usually released 3 to 6 months before the launch, and reservations begin. The reservation period is often about 1 to 2 months, so be careful not to miss it.
Additionally, each retailer (AmiAmi, Animate, etc.) also conducts their own reservations. The timing for starting reservations and the bonuses may differ by retailer, so checking multiple sites can expand your options. The release schedule can be confirmed on the official website's "Product Information" page, so it’s a good habit to check regularly.
First Nendoroid | From Unboxing to Assembly
When your Nendoroid arrives, it’s finally time to unbox it. For first-timers, you might feel anxious about "breaking parts" or "what order to assemble them in." Here, we will explain the steps from unboxing to assembly in detail, along with points to avoid mistakes for beginners.
Points to Note When Unboxing
Nendoroids come in a blister pack, which is a transparent plastic case. When unboxing, use scissors or a cutter to carefully open the case. Pulling too hard can cause parts to fly out and get lost.
Unboxing Procedure
1. Remove the inner box (blister pack) from the outer box.
2. Cut the corners and adhesive parts of the blister pack with scissors.
3. Slowly open the case and take out the parts one by one.
4. Arrange the removed parts on a small tray or box.
Be particularly careful about losing small parts. Hand parts and small accessories are very small and can be difficult to find if dropped on the floor. It is safer to unbox in a bright place, on a white tray or paper, as the parts will be easier to see.
Additionally, since parts are often separated into transparent plastic bags, be careful when opening the bags. It is also recommended to only take out the necessary parts instead of removing them all at once.
Types and Roles of Parts
Nendoroids come with various parts, each serving a specific role. For first-timers, it is important to understand what each part is used for.
Main Parts
Divided into four parts: head, body, arms, and legs. The head can be disassembled into expression parts and hair parts, and the body has joint parts to connect the arms and legs.
Expression Parts
Usually, three types (smiling face, normal face, special expression) are included. You can change the expression by swapping the front part of the face. These are used in combination with the hair parts.
Hand Parts
Includes multiple types such as open hands, closed hands, and peace signs. They can be swapped at the wrist joint. They are used to hold small accessories.
Base and Support Rod
A transparent base and a plastic support rod that holds the main body. The support rod is inserted into the joint holes in the back or waist. By changing the position of the support rod according to the pose, you can stabilize the figure.
Optional Parts
Includes character-specific accessories, weapons, and effect parts. By combining these, you can recreate characteristic scenes of the character.
Once you have a grasp of the overall parts, let's proceed to assembly while checking the instruction manual.
Basic Assembly Procedure
The basic assembly of a Nendoroid is done in the following steps.
Step 1: Prepare the Base and Support Rod
Insert the support rod into the base. The tip of the support rod has a small hole where you connect the joint of the main body at the back or waist.
Step 2: Assemble the Main Body
Attach the arm parts to the body. The arms connect by being inserted into the shoulder joint. Do not forcefully push; insert smoothly while gently twisting. Next, attach the leg parts.
Step 3: Attach the Head
Combine the expression parts and hair parts to create the head. Insert the head into the neck joint to secure it. Be careful as the neck joint is small.
Step 4: Secure to the Base
Insert the support rod into the hole in the back or waist of the main body. Adjust to a stable position while checking the balance.
Step 5: Attach Hand Parts and Accessories
Swap to your preferred hand parts and, if necessary, have them hold small accessories. This completes the basic assembly.
The first assembly may take about 10 to 15 minutes, but once you get used to it, you can complete it in under 5 minutes. Take your time and proceed carefully, one step at a time.
Proper Handling of Nendoroids | Tips to Prevent Damage
Since Nendoroids are movable figures, parts are frequently exchanged and rearranged. However, if you do not know the proper handling methods, there is a risk of damaging the parts. Here, we will explain the correct handling methods that beginners should know and tips to prevent damage.
Basic Part Exchange
When exchanging parts, adhere to the two principles: “Do not pull forcefully” and “Apply force in the correct direction”.
Correct Way to Remove Parts
When removing parts, hold the connection point firmly and pull straight out or gently twist while pulling. It is stable to support the part with one hand while using the other hand to hold the part being removed. Pulling with just your fingertips can cause thin parts to break.
Correct Installation Method
When attaching parts, check the shape of the joint before inserting. Instead of forcing it in, gently twist while inserting for a smoother fit. If you insert it until you hear a click, it is a sign that it is securely fixed.
Tips on Applying Force
Plastic parts can easily break if too much force is applied. If you feel a bit of resistance, try changing the angle without forcing it. Especially in winter, plastic tends to become harder, so warming it up before working makes it easier to handle.
Gently hold the part in your palm to warm it with your body heat, or use a hairdryer to blow warm air for a few seconds. However, be careful as overheating can cause deformation.
Parts Prone to Damage and Precautions
Among Nendoroids, there are parts that are particularly prone to damage. Be extra cautious when handling these parts.
Neck Joint
The neck joint is very thin and prone to breaking. When removing the head, hold the face part instead of the hair parts. Pulling on the hair parts can cause them to detach while putting strain on the neck joint.
Wrist Parts
When exchanging hand parts, the wrist joint can break. The trick is to firmly hold the joint on the arm side and twist while pulling out the hand part. Pull straight outward in relation to the arm.
Thin Protruding Parts (Ahoge, Antennas, etc.)
Parts with thin protrusions, such as hair or accessories, are prone to breaking, so support the base when touching them. Be careful during storage to ensure that protruding parts do not come into contact with other parts.
Base Support Connection
The hole where the support is inserted into the main body can become loose or damaged with repeated use. When inserting the support, be mindful to insert it straight and avoid applying force at an angle.
If damage occurs, Good Smile Company offers a paid parts replacement service. You can inquire through the official website, so if self-repair is difficult, consider using this service.
Common Mistakes Made by Beginners
Here are some common mistakes that Nendoroid beginners tend to make. Knowing these in advance can help you avoid them.
Mistake 1: Forcing and Breaking
This occurs when parts are difficult to detach, and one pulls with brute force. Warming the parts and twisting while pulling usually allows for safe removal in most cases.
Mistake 2: Incorrect Part Combinations
Sometimes, one tries to combine parts from different Nendoroids and forces them together. Generally, parts from Nendoroids are compatible, but some parts may not fit properly. If it’s hard to insert, try a different part without forcing it.
Mistake 3: Incorrect Use of the Base
This includes mistakes like inserting the support into the wrong hole or trying to stand it without the support. Nendoroids have large heads and are difficult to balance, so always use the base and support. Adjusting the position of the support can stabilize various poses.
Mistake 4: Losing Parts
This happens when parts are removed and left unattended, leading to loss. Prepare a small tray or case and develop the habit of immediately placing removed parts there.
These mistakes can be avoided by being mindful of handling. Take your time and work carefully until you get used to it.
How to Display Nendoroids | Beginner Display Methods
Once you purchase a Nendoroid, the next step is to think about how to display it. First-timers may wonder, "Where should I display it?" or "Do I need a case?" Here, we introduce the basics of displaying that are easy for beginners. For information on customizing Nendoroids, refer to 【Related Articles】: Nendoroid Parts Swapping Guide | How to Combine Expressions, Hair, and Body Parts.
First Display Method | Basic Points
When displaying Nendoroids, the key points to keep in mind are "a stable location," "avoiding direct sunlight," and "dust prevention".
Place in a stable location
Nendoroids are supported by a base and a support pole, making them susceptible to shaking and vibrations. Choose a flat and stable location. A desk, a shelf on a bookcase, or a dedicated display shelf are suitable. Avoid places near doors or in hallways where they might get bumped.
Avoid direct sunlight
Displaying them in a location with direct sunlight for long periods can cause the paint to fade or the plastic to deteriorate. If displaying near a window, use curtains to block light or choose a position that does not receive direct sunlight.
Dust prevention
Displaying Nendoroids without any protection can lead to dust accumulation. Regularly dust them with a soft brush or blower, or placing them in a display case can prevent dust. Be especially careful as dust tends to accumulate in small parts and hair gaps.
Basic display method
For beginners, it is recommended to start by displaying one figure simply. Use the base and support pole to pose your favorite stance. Initially, it’s good to refer to the poses in the instruction manual. Once you get used to it, try changing hand parts and expressions to create original poses. For display ideas, see 【Related Article】: Complete Guide to Displaying Nendoroids | Stylish Display Ideas Collection.
Recommended Display Locations and Cases
The location for displaying Nendoroids varies depending on your lifestyle and room layout. Here are some recommended display locations for beginners.
On a desk
This method involves displaying them on a corner of your computer desk or living room table. Since it’s a place you see daily, you can enjoy your Nendoroids anytime. Changing expressions or poses during work breaks is also a fun way to enjoy them.
On a bookshelf or cabinet
Displaying them in an empty space on a bookshelf blends well with the interior. Arranging them alongside books and miscellaneous items creates a stylish display. However, choose a shelf with depth to prevent them from falling during earthquakes.
Dedicated display case
If you want to protect them from dust and dirt, a dedicated display case is recommended. Using acrylic cases or figure cases from 100 yen shops allows for easy dust prevention. Additionally, furniture retailers like IKEA and Nitori sell glass cases suitable for figures.
Choosing a case
For each Nendoroid, choose a case that is at least 12cm tall, 10cm wide, and 10cm deep. If displaying multiple figures, long cases or collection boards are convenient. Using cases with LED lights can make your Nendoroids look even more beautiful.
For beginners, it’s best to start by displaying them on your existing shelves or desk, and consider introducing cases as your collection grows.
Nendoroid Storage Methods | To Enjoy Them Longer
To enjoy Nendoroids for a long time, proper storage methods are important. This is especially a concern if you own multiple figures or change displays seasonally, as figuring out how to store unused parts and the main body becomes a challenge. Here, we introduce storage methods that beginners can easily implement.
Storage Techniques for Parts
Nendoroids come with many parts, and figuring out how to store unused parts can be a dilemma. Here are some storage techniques to prevent losing parts.
Utilizing section cases
The section cases (partitioned cases) sold at 100 yen shops are perfect for storing small parts. By separating expression parts, hand parts, and accessories into different sections, you can easily see where everything is. Choosing a transparent case allows you to check the contents without opening it, which is convenient.
Management with labeling
If you own multiple Nendoroids, it can be hard to remember which parts belong to which character. By labeling cases or bags with the character names, you can save time searching for parts. Simply writing names on masking tape and sticking it on is also effective.
plasticizers leaking out of the plastic. To prevent stickiness, **store them in a well-ventilated area and regularly air them out. Avoid leaving them in a sealed case for long periods.
If stickiness occurs, it can be improved by gently wiping with water diluted with neutral detergent and allowing to dry thoroughly. However, be careful not to scrub too hard, as there is a risk of paint peeling off.
Regular Checks
Even if stored for a long time, take them out and check their condition at least once every six months. Check for dust accumulation, discoloration, or deformation. Regularly exposing them to air can also help prevent stickiness.
Tips to Prevent Loss of Parts
Nendoroid parts are very small and easy to lose, which is a drawback. Especially hand parts and small accessories can be difficult to find once lost. Here are some tips to prevent loss of parts.
Decide on a Place to Put Parts When Swapping
When swapping parts, placing the removed parts on the spot can lead to them rolling away and getting lost. Establish a rule to use a work tray or small plate and always place removed parts there. Laying white paper or cloth in the tray makes small parts easier to see.
Utilizing Small Trays
Having accessory trays or small containers from a 100 yen shop near your work area is convenient. If you develop the habit of immediately returning parts to the tray after swapping, you can significantly reduce the risk of loss.
After working, it is also important to immediately return unused parts to the storage case. Leaving them with the thought of "I'll clean up later" can lead to loss or damage. To enjoy Nendoroids, make part management a part of the enjoyment.
Summary: Key Points for Nendoroid Beginners
Nendoroids are figures that beginners can enjoy easily. Let's summarize the key points that beginners should keep in mind based on the content discussed in this article. For more detailed information, please refer to 【Related Articles】: Complete Guide to Nendoroids | Enjoying Deformed Figures from Beginner Level.
Points Before Purchase
- The standard price is around 6,000 to 7,000 yen
- It is safe to purchase from official sites or major online shopping sites
- It is recommended to purchase popular items at the reservation stage
Points for Unboxing and Assembly
- Be careful of losing parts during unboxing and work in a bright place
- Do not pull parts forcefully; warm them up and twist them out
- Use the base and support to create stable poses
Points for Handling
- Handle neck joints and wrist parts especially carefully
- Apply force in the correct direction when swapping parts
- If damaged, use the official parts replacement service
Display and Storage Tips
- Display in a stable location and avoid direct sunlight
- Display cases are effective for dust prevention
- Organize unused parts in a partitioned case and label
- Avoid high temperature and humidity for long-term storage, and check the condition regularly
Nendoroids are figures that can be enjoyed for many years if handled correctly. Start with basic poses, and once you get used to it, change expressions and poses to enjoy your own unique display. If you master parts management and storage methods, you can feel secure even as your collection grows.
I hope that those who are starting with Nendoroids can use this article as a reference to confidently begin their Nendoroid life. Enjoy wonderful times with your favorite characters.