Tamashii Nations All Series Comparison Guide | Differences and Selection of S.H.Figuarts and ROBOT Spirits

Many people may want to purchase figures from Tamashii Nations but do not understand the differences between S.H.Figuarts and ROBOT Spirits, and are unsure about which series to choose. There are multiple series within Tamashii Nations, each differing significantly in features, price range, and target works. This article provides a detailed comparison of the differences between each series, offering a complete guide to help you select the most suitable figure for you.

What are the series of Tamashii Nations? Overview of product lines within the brand

Tamashii Nations is a high-target action figure brand developed by Bandai Spirits. Within it, various series are available, including S.H.Figuarts, ROBOT Spirits, Super Alloy, and METAL BUILD.

The reason for the existence of each series is to meet the needs of target works and collector demographics. For those who want to precisely reproduce special effects characters, there is S.H.Figuarts; for those who want to animate mecha from robot anime, there is ROBOT Spirits; and for those who want to reproduce retro super robots with modern technology, there is Super Alloy. In this way, optimal series are prepared according to purpose.

The importance of choosing a series directly correlates to the satisfaction after purchase. Not only do the price ranges differ, but mobility, paint quality, size, and the abundance of accessories also differ significantly, so understanding your desired elements when choosing is the first step to a collection you won’t regret. 【Related article】: Tamashii Nations Beginner's Guide | Complete explanation from choosing your first figure to enjoying it

Quick Reference Table of Major Tamashii Nations Series

Below is a quick reference table summarizing the major series of Tamashii Nations. Use this to grasp an overview of each series and find the line that best fits your interests.

Series Name	Price Range	Main Target Works	Features
S.H.	Figuarts	5,000〜12,000 yen	Kamen Rider, Ultraman, anime characters	High mobility, precise painting, character-specific
ROBOT Spirit	4,000〜8,000 yen	Gundam, robot anime	Robot-specific, rich weapon parts
Super Alloy	6,000〜15,000 yen	Super robots, character toys	Die-cast material, solid feel
Super Alloy Soul	10,000〜30,000 yen	Mazinger Z, Getter Robo	Retro robot recreation, premium finish
METAL BUILD	20,000〜40,000 yen and above	Main Gundam units	Top-grade line, precise painting, metallic texture
S.I.C.	8,000〜15,000 yen	Kamen Rider	Unique arrangement design, realism-oriented

S.H.Figuarts (S.H. Figuarts) | Action figures of special effects and anime characters

S.H.Figuarts is a series particularly focused on character figures within the Soul Nations, realistically recreating special effects heroes and anime characters with high mobility and precise painting. True to the concept of "Simple style & Heroic action", it features a design that realizes simple yet heroic action poses.

• Features and price range of S.H.Figuarts
• Main target works of S.H.Figuarts
• Differences between S.H.Figuarts True Bone Sculpting method and regular version

Features and price range of S.H.Figuarts

The greatest feature of S.H.Figuarts is its high mobility. Despite being about 15 cm in size, the main joints such as shoulders, elbows, and hip joints move extensively, enabling faithful recreation of character-specific action poses such as kicks, punches, and special moves.

The painting quality is also high, with careful detailing in the character's intricate features.

The quality of the suit's texture and the gloss of the mask have been praised for maintaining the atmosphere of the original work.

The standard size is around 15 cm, making it easy to display on desks or in collection cases. It comes with a rich variety of interchangeable wrist parts, weapons, and effect parts, allowing for the recreation of various scenes.

The price range for the standard version is about 5,000 to 8,000 yen, while the upper version using the Shin-Kokucho method mentioned later is around 10,000 to 12,000 yen. This places it in the mid-price range within the Tamashii Nations line, and it can be said to be a series with a good balance of quality and price. 【Related Article】: Tamashii Nations Recommended Guide by Price Range | Find the Best Figure for Your Budget

Main Target Works of S.H.Figuarts

S.H.Figuarts covers a wide range of genres. The most extensive collection is from the Kamen Rider series, with almost all riders from the Showa era to the Reiwa era being commercialized.

The Ultraman series is also plentiful, featuring characters from the original Ultraman to Ultraman Trigger, showcasing both historical Ultraman and kaiju. In terms of anime, popular characters from series like Dragon Ball, One Piece, and Demon Slayer have been commercialized, especially Dragon Ball, where various forms of Son Goku have a comprehensive lineup.

Additionally, overseas works such as Star Wars, Marvel (Avengers), and DC Comics are also included, making it appealing to collect hero characters from both domestic and international sources in a unified scale.

Differences between S.H.Figuarts Shin-Kokucho Method and Standard Version

The Shin-Kokucho method is a higher tier line within S.H.Figuarts that particularly focuses on precision. This technique realizes a more natural and organic proportion through sculpting that considers the human skeletal and muscular structure.

The main difference from the standard version is the precision of the sculpt. The Shin-Kokucho method features a three-dimensional sculpt that suggests the presence of muscles and skeletons beneath the suit, ensuring that there is no unnatural appearance from any angle. The range of motion is also designed to be broader than that of the standard version, making it less likely for proportions to break down even in extreme action poses.

The price difference is about 2,000 to 4,000 yen, with the standard version priced around 6,000 yen, while the Shin-Kokucho version is around 10,000 yen. Representative Shin-Kokucho products include "Shin-Kokucho Method Kamen Rider W" and "Shin-Kokucho Method Kamen Rider OOO," both of which are popular for their quality that sets them apart from the standard version.

ROBOT Spirits (ロボット魂) | Action Figures Specializing in Robot Works

ROBOT Spirits, as the name suggests, is a series that specializes in mecha from robot anime and game works. It has become a staple among robot anime fans due to its ability to enjoy the mechanics of various robot works, including Gundam, with high mobility and reasonable prices.

• Features and Price Range of ROBOT Spirit
• Main Target Works of ROBOT Spirit
• Differences with METAL ROBOT Spirit

Features and Price Range of ROBOT Spirit

The feature of ROBOT Spirit is its motion design specialized for robots. Through exhaustive research on the structure of humanoid robots, the joint design allows for free recreation of iconic scenes from robot anime, such as kneeling poses or rifle stances. Various mechanisms, such as shoulder and hip swing, and multi-axis movement at the ankles, incorporate unique movements typical of robots.

Another major attraction is the abundance of interchangeable parts. Not only are there weapons like rifles, beam sabers, and shields, but multiple additional wrist parts are included, such as open hands, clenched fists, and weapon-holding hands. Additionally, effect parts are often bundled, enabling the illustration of scenes like beam firing or booster jetting.

The size varies depending on the work, but approximately 12 to 15 cm is standard, emphasizing a lineup focused on scale. For instance, there is a size difference between Gundam and Zaku that closely matches the actual scale ratio set in their design.

The price range is around 4,000 to 8,000 yen, making it one of the most reasonably priced categories within the Tamashii Nations series. This price range offers high mobility and a wealth of accessories, making it a series with excellent cost performance. 【Related Articles】: Complete Guide to Tamashii Nations | All Series Explanations, Purchase Methods, Events, and Maintenance

Main Target Works of ROBOT Spirit

The most extensive work represented by ROBOT Spirit is the Gundam series. From Universal Century works (such as First Gundam, Z Gundam, and Char's Counterattack) to Alternate Gundam (such as SEED, 00, and Iron-Blooded Orphans), a wide array of Mobile Suits has been commercialized.

Aside from Gundam, robot anime works such as Eureka Seven, Full Metal Panic, Code Geass, and Macross series are also developed. Moreover, in recent years, original robots from the Super Robot Wars series and mechas from game works (like Armored Core) have also been commercialized, expanding the range of targets.

Differences with METAL ROBOT Spirit

METAL ROBOT Spirit is a series developed as a higher line to the standard ROBOT Spirit. The most significant difference lies in the materials used; while the standard ROBOT Spirit is mainly made of plastic, METAL ROBOT Spirit uses die-cast (metal) parts for its main components.

Due to the differences in materials, the METAL ROBOT spirit feels significantly different when held in hand. The solid weight characteristic of die-cast, along with the unique texture of metal, creates a sense of luxury. The painting is also enhanced with high-quality treatments such as metallic paint and mirror finishes.

The price difference is substantial, with the standard ROBOT spirit priced around 4,000 to 8,000 yen, while the METAL ROBOT spirit ranges from about 15,000 to 25,000 yen, making it approximately 2 to 3 times more expensive. As a result, the mobility, detail, and painting quality are all a step up, making it particularly suitable for purchasing special versions of main units or favorite models.

Chogokin | The Traditional Die-Cast Figure Series

Chogokin is a series that can be considered the origin of Soul Nations, established in 1974. With nearly 50 years of history, it features a heavy feel and durability due to die-cast materials, garnering a wide fan base from those who played with Chogokin in their childhood to current young collectors.

• Features and Price Range of Chogokin
• Main Target Works of Chogokin

Features and Price Range of Chogokin

The greatest feature of Chogokin is the heavy feel from the die-cast material. Because primary parts use metals such as zinc alloy, the substantial weight is felt when held. This weight creates a sense of “authenticity” and “luxury,” providing a different sense of ownership compared to plastic figures.

Durability is also a major advantage of Chogokin. The die-cast material is resilient to drops and impacts, possessing characteristics that prevent degradation even during long-term storage. The design philosophy that considers children playing with them is still passed down, making their sturdiness a charm that allows for actual enjoyment.

The balance of mobility and detail varies by the series. Recent Chogokin figures have improved mobility, expanding the range of posing, but they do not offer the same freedom as ROBOT spirits or S.H.Figuarts. Instead, they achieve a robust structure with stable self-support.

The price range is about 6,000 to 15,000 yen, which can vary widely depending on size and specifications. Character toy-related items are relatively reasonable, but large robots or special editions tend to be in the higher price range.

Main Target Works of Chogokin

The target works of Chogokin are very diverse. In the super robot genre, there are the Brave series (such as GaoGaiGar, Dagwon) and the Eldran series (like Ganbaruger, Gozaur), receiving high support from fans of robot anime from the 1990s.

As character toys, the Marvel Iron Man series is particularly well-developed.

The movie version of the Mark series (Mark 1 to over 50) has been commercialized and has become a staple for Iron Man collectors.

Additionally, there are unique developments such as character super alloys of Hello Kitty and Doraemon. These are popular as products aimed at character fans, differing from the traditional super alloy fanbase. The quality of painting and detail is high, making them suitable as collection items for adults.

Soul of Chogokin | Reviving retro robots with modern technology

The Soul of Chogokin is a series that revives retro super robot works aired in the 1970s and 80s, using modern technology and specifications aimed at adult collectors. It has received high praise as high-quality figures that the generation that loved the super alloys of that time can still enjoy as adults.

• Features and price range of Soul of Chogokin
• Main target works of Soul of Chogokin

Features and price range of Soul of Chogokin

The feature of Soul of Chogokin is that it faithfully recreates 1970s and 80s robot anime while achieving high quality through modern technology. It extensively studies the original anime setting drawings and broadcast videos to reproduce proportions, coloring, and details as faithfully as possible to the source material.

An example of high quality achieved through modern technology is the precision painting techniques. Advanced painting processes such as gradient painting and metallic painting, which were impossible with the super alloys of that time, have been applied, resulting in a finish close to the image of the anime.

The die-cast material inherits the tradition of super alloys, using metal for major parts to create a sense of weightiness. This weight creates a sense of satisfaction as if one is holding a "real robot," enhancing its value as a collection item. The range of motion varies by product, but recent releases have improved the range of motion, allowing for poses that can recreate iconic scenes from the series.

The price range is approximately 10,000 to 30,000 yen, placing it in a higher price range within the Soul Nations. Products that are larger in size or have complex combination gimmicks may be even more expensive. This pricing reflects its positioning for adult collectors and the high quality of materials and technology used.

Main target works of Soul of Chogokin

The target works of Soul of Chogokin center around Go Nagai's works such as Mazinger Z, Great Mazinger, and Grendizer. These works are considered the origin of the super alloy and are especially focused on in the Soul of Chogokin lineup.

The Getter Robo series is also well-represented, featuring products of Getter Robo, Getter Robo G, and Shin Getter Robo from various generations.

Many models reproduce the combination gimmick, allowing you to enjoy the process of three mechas combining to become Getter Robo.

Additionally, there are developments for Long Harima's Roman Robot series such as Combattler V, Voltes V, and Daimos, as well as Yoshiyuki Tomino's works like Daitarn 3 and Zambot 3. All of these represent the golden age of robot anime in the 1970s and 1980s, offering a nostalgic lineup for those who experienced that era and a fresh charm for the younger generation.

METAL BUILD｜Premium figures in the highest quality line

METAL BUILD is positioned as the premium line within Tamashii Nations, both in price and quality far exceeding other series, aiming to develop the "ultimate completed figure." It is primarily centered around the main mechs of the Gundam series and has become an object of admiration for collectors.

• Features and price range of METAL BUILD
• Main target works of METAL BUILD

Features and price range of METAL BUILD

The most notable feature of METAL BUILD is its overwhelming quality as a top-tier line. Every element, including precise painting, the texture of metallic paint, and the hybrid structure of die-cast and plastic, is realized at the highest standards.

Precision painting is a hallmark of METAL BUILD. The panel lines and details on the mech's surface are meticulously painted, with gradient painting and weathering also applied. There is almost no thickness or unevenness in the paint, achieving a texture akin to real metal parts.

The texture of the metallic paint sets it apart from other series. With a mirror finish that changes expression depending on the light and deep metallic blue and red, the painting exudes a sense of luxury. Especially, the beam sabers and effect parts of Gundam wonderfully replicate the shine seen in the series thanks to the combination of clear parts and metallic paint.

The hybrid structure of die-cast and plastic balances heaviness and mobility. By using die-cast in the main frame parts, a solid weight and high quality are provided while using plastic for the exterior parts allows for precise molding and a wide range of movement. This design ensures very high stability in posing, making it possible to stand on one leg or strike aerial action poses.

The price range is between 20,000 and 40,000 yen or more, making it the most expensive within Tamashii Nations. Limited editions and special versions can be even higher, exceeding 50,000 yen. This pricing is reasonable considering the materials, technology, and development man-hours involved, and can be seen as a worthwhile investment for collectors seeking a "special one."

Main Target Works of METAL BUILD

The target works of METAL BUILD are almost entirely composed of the Gundam series. The most popular among them are the mobile suits from the Gundam SEED series. Iconic units like Strike Freedom Gundam, Destiny Gundam, and Strike Gundam are abundant and boast high popularity.

The Gundam 00 series is also rich in variety, featuring products such as Double-O Riser, Exia, and Gundam Dynames. These units are beautifully painted in metallic green and blue, showcasing the painting techniques of METAL BUILD at their finest.

Additionally, popular mobile suits from various works such as Gundam F91, Crossbone Gundam, and Gundam Astray are being developed. In recent years, mass-produced machines and rival units like Zaku and Guf have also been commercialized, creating a lineup that can be displayed alongside the main units.

S.I.C. (Kamen Rider) | A Unique Line of Arranged Interpretations

S.I.C. (Super Imaginative Chogokin) is a unique series that reinterprets the Kamen Rider series with its own design arrangements. Instead of faithfully reproducing the original, it features a realistic design characterized by the sculptor's interpretation, garnering both supporters and critics but maintaining a strong fanbase.

• Characteristics and Price Range of S.I.C.
• Main Target Works of S.I.C.

Characteristics and Price Range of S.I.C.

The most notable feature of S.I.C. is its unique arranged interpretation. It redesigns the original Kamen Rider from the perspective of "What if they existed in reality?" emphasizing the skeletal structure and muscular design of insects, resulting in an organic form.

The realistic design is a dividing point in preferences. Compared to the original simple design, S.I.C. adds significant details and joint armor, resulting in a darker and harder impression. The emphasis on bone structure and musculature combines both a biological eeriness and strength, leading some to feel it looks "cool" while others perceive it as "too different from the original."

The density of detail in the sculpting is very high, with fine armor parts, wiring, and mechanical details applied throughout the body. The painting is also complex, using metallic paints, weathering, and shading to create a sense of three-dimensionality through multi-layered paint processing.

The price range is approximately 8,000 to 15,000 yen, making it slightly more expensive than S.H.Figuarts. Considering the complexity of the sculpting and the effort involved in painting, it could be deemed a reasonable price point.

Main Target Works of S.I.C.

The target works of S.I.C. encompass all of the Kamen Rider series.

From Showa Riders (the first Kamen Rider, V3, X, etc.) to Heisei Riders (Kuuga, Ryuki, Den-O, etc.) and Reiwa Riders (Zero-One, Saber, etc.), a wide range of Riders has been commercialized.

In particular, Riders like the first Kamen Rider and Kamen Rider Kuuga, which had organic designs in the original works, pair well with the S.I.C. arrangements and have become popular products. Additionally, enemy characters such as Shocker soldiers and monsters are also commercialized with uniquely eerie arrangements distinctive to S.I.C., adding depth to displays.

Choosing the Tamashii Nations Series | Budget, Works, and Purpose Guide

Having explained the characteristics of each series up to this point, many might be wondering which series to actually choose. Here, we support your selection of the most suitable series from three perspectives: budget, works, and collection purposes.

• Recommended Series by Budget
• Recommended Series by Works and Genre
• Recommended Series by Collection Purpose

Recommended Series by Budget

If choosing with a budget of 5,000 yen or less: ROBOT Spirits
If you are purchasing a figure for the first time or want to gather multiple figures, ROBOT Spirits is recommended. Priced between 4,000 and 8,000 yen, it offers high mobility and a wealth of accessories, providing excellent cost performance. With a wide lineup centered on Mobile Suits from the Gundam series, you can easily find your favorite mecha.

If choosing with a budget around 10,000 yen: S.H.Figuarts & Chogokin
In the mid-price range, S.H.Figuarts and Chogokin are options. S.H.Figuarts is attractive for its precise reproduction of special effects heroes and anime characters; with the Shinkocchou Seihou version, you can obtain top-quality products for around 10,000 yen. Chogokin is perfect for those who want to enjoy the heft of die-cast materials, offering a wide range of genres including Iron Man and Brave Robots.

For details on the actual purchase process, please refer to 【Related Articles】: Complete Guide to Purchasing Tamashii Nations | Thorough Explanation from Official Shops to Online Retailers.

If choosing with a budget of 20,000 yen or more: METAL BUILD and Soul of Chogokin
In the high price range, METAL BUILD and Soul of Chogokin are candidates. METAL BUILD is recommended for those who want to enjoy Gundam's main mobile suits in the highest quality, greatly enhancing ownership satisfaction with its precise paint and metallic texture. Soul of Chogokin is ideal for those who want to recreate retro super robots with modern technology, allowing enjoyment of classics like Mazinger Z and Getter Robo in high quality.

Recommended Series by Work/Genre

For Gundam Fans: ROBOT Spirit and METAL BUILD
If you want to collect figures from the Gundam series, it's recommended to start with ROBOT Spirit. It offers a wide range of mobile suits at a reasonable price, covering everything from the Universal Century to Alternate Gundams. Combining it with purchasing your favorite main mobile suit as a special piece in METAL BUILD is also a popular collection style. For more detailed selection of mobile suits, refer to 【Related Articles】: Complete Guide to Tamashii Nations Gundam and Kamen Rider Figures | Thorough Explanation of Popular Series.

For Kamen Rider Fans: S.H.Figuarts and S.I.C.
For Kamen Rider figures, you will choose between the authentic S.H.Figuarts and the arranged design S.I.C. If you want to stay true to the original atmosphere and enjoy action poses, S.H.Figuarts is recommended. On the other hand, if you want to enjoy unique interpretations, a dark atmosphere, or feel attracted to different new designs from the originals, S.I.C. is suitable.

For Retro Robot Fans: Soul of Chogokin
If you like super robot works from the 1970s to 80s, you have to go with Soul of Chogokin. Classics like Mazinger Z, Getter Robo, and Combattler V are precisely recreated with modern technology, evoking nostalgia for those who knew them back then, while providing fresh appeal for younger generations. The heaviness of die-cast materials also matches the atmosphere of retro robots.

Recommended Series by Collection Purpose

Display-Oriented: METAL BUILD and Soul of Chogokin
If you prioritize enjoyment from display, METAL BUILD and Soul of Chogokin are recommended. With precise painting and metallic textures, their appearance in a collection case is outstanding. Particularly, METAL BUILD's mirror-like finish changes expression based on light, and careful lighting can enhance its charm even further. For details on display methods, please refer to the 【related articles】: How to Display and Store Tamashii Nations Figures | From Case Selection to UV Countermeasures.

Emphasis on Posing and Play: S.H.Figuarts and ROBOT Spirits
If you want to change poses freely and have fun, S.H.Figuarts and ROBOT Spirits are ideal. Both have high mobility, allowing you to recreate famous scenes from the series or come up with original action poses. The included weapons and effect parts are abundant, enabling you to express various situations.

Emphasis on Investment and Rarity: Limited Edition METAL BUILD
If you consider figures as an investment, focus on limited edition METAL BUILD. METAL BUILD items exclusive to Tamashii Web Shoten and events often see a price surge after release, increasing their rarity. However, purchasing for investment purposes requires careful observation of market trends, as there is no guarantee of a price increase. It is wise to approach it with the mindset of "enjoying figures from beloved works, and if their value goes up, that’s a bonus." The latest information on limited editions is updated regularly in 【related articles】: Latest Information on Tamashii Nations | Summary of Upcoming Figure Releases and Noteworthy Products [2025 Edition].

Summary: Choose the Best One for You from the Tamashii Nations Series

Each series of Tamashii Nations has distinct characteristics and target users. Use the information discussed in this article to find the one that suits you best.

Summary of Differences between Series

A summary of the differences between the major Tamashii Nations series is provided below.

• S.H.Figuarts: Specialized in special effects and anime characters, high mobility, with higher versions made using true bone carving, price range 5,000 to 12,000 yen
• ROBOT Spirits: Specializes in robot anime, best cost performance, abundant weapon parts, price range 4,000 to 8,000 yen
• Chogokin: Made of die-cast material, heavy feel and durability, wide genre development, price range 6,000 to 15,000 yen
• Chogokin Spirits: Reproduces retro robots, high quality with modern technology, premium adult specification, price range 10,000 to 30,000 yen
• METAL BUILD: Highest grade line, precise painting and metallic texture, primarily features Gundam main units, price range 20,000 to 40,000 yen or more
• S.I.C.: Specialized in Kamen Rider, unique arranged designs, realism-focused modeling, price range 8,000 to 15,000 yen

Which series should beginners choose first?

If you're a beginner at Tamashii Nations and are choosing your first figure, ROBOT Spirits or S.H.Figuarts is recommended.

ROBOT Spirits offers high mobility and a variety of accessories at a reasonable price range of 4,000 to 8,000 yen. If you like the mobile suits from the Gundam series, it's a good idea to purchase a few ROBOT Spirits figures to experience the charm of Tamashii Nations figures. Since the price range has less risk for mistakes, you can challenge yourself without hesitation.

S.H.Figuarts is perfect if you like Kamen Rider, Ultraman, or anime characters. Its appeal lies in the precision of the character design and high mobility, starting from the standard versions priced at 5,000 to 8,000 yen, and you can enjoy upgrading to the Shinkocchou Seihou versions for your favorite characters.

After getting accustomed to the world of Tamashii Nations with these two series, if you have the budget, you could challenge yourself with higher-priced series like METAL BUILD or Chogokin, which will allow you to enjoy deeper collections. What's important is to choose based on the works, characters, or robots you love. Acquiring what you like is the first step in collecting and the most crucial point. For a more detailed beginner's guide, please refer to 【Related Articles】: Tamashii Nations Beginner Guide | Complete explanation from choosing your first figure to how to enjoy them.