Shopping Guide
In 1974, two huge incidents occurred that rocked the character world of Japan. One was Hello Kitty, a character from the creative minds at Sanrio, being introduced to the world for the first time. The other was the first model released in the Chogokin series: Mazinger Z from the anime of the same name. Next year, both Hello Kitty and the Chogokin series will turn 40. Syncing up with this memorial year, an unbelievable collaboration will take place.
In celebration of Chogokin’s 40th anniversary, the “Chogokin Hello Kitty” model will be released in June 2014. This figure was on display for the first time from Nov. 1-3 at Tamashii Nation 2013 held in the fourth floor UDX Gallery and in the second floor Akiba Square of the Akihabara UDX building in Tokyo. In 2014, it will be released not just in Japan, but consecutively in countries around the world. It seems that the Chogokin Hello Kitty will be bathed in popularity worldwide.
One thing not to become confused with regarding the Chogokin Hello Kitty is that Hello Kitty hasn’t become a Chogokin, but rather that a Chogokin robot has been created in the image of Hello Kitty. Differing from the world of Hello Kitty, this figure works off of the setting of Chogokin robots. That being piloting them and setting out on a great adventure. Because of that, there is a cockpit at the top of the robot. Inside this cockpit sits a mini figure of Hello Kitty which stands at a height of 23 millimeters. This figure brings to mind the Mazinger Z figure that started the series. Also, the figure is transformable into several different modes for swimming underwater, running on land, and flying in the sky. The Rocket Punch that flies out from her arm is also a nostalgic touch. There is also a way to change the robot’s eyes to convey different expressions, leading to several ways to enjoy the figure.
Bandai has determined that the target audience for this product is males 15 years and older. However, this is a figure that will appeal to both fans of Chogokin and Hello Kitty. The MSRP of the figure is 4,400 yen and it will be sold in hobby shops, toy stores, and electronic stores nationwide, as well as through online sites. This is yet another fascinating item to add to the long list of talked-about collaborations for Hello Kitty. On the other hand, Bandai is designating 2014 as the anniversary year of Chogokin, and starting in March, new products related to the Chogokin series will go on sale each month. Therefore, the Chogokin Hello Kitty will give rise to even more big projects to come. With next year being the 40th anniversary of both Hello Kitty and Chogokin, make sure to keep an eye on both of these companies.
Source: animeanime
