Japanese model manufacturers GOOD SMILE COMPANY and MAX FACTORY, who have a long-standing collaboration, have once again announced a joint venture to launch a new character model kit series, 'PLAMATEA'. Several prototypes of products currently under development were showcased at the recent "WonHobby37" event, with release dates yet to be determined.
Currently, 'PLAMATEA' appears to be not just a new product line separating character figures from PLAMAX, but also features a new joint design for overall articulation, distinct from previous PLAMAX products. Each molded part boasts rich detailed sculpting, extensively reproducing the soft texture and folds of character costumes, the weighty feel and curves of armor, and the sharp, dynamic shapes of hair ends. Compared to characters previously released under PLAMAX, a significant improvement in part precision is clearly evident.
However, as seen from the promotional image of the "Hatsune Miku Happy 16th Birthday Ver." product, the main body of Miku is produced using only 5 molded colors. Even with such precise details, stickers or self-painting will still be required to achieve a higher level of completion, which might not be very approachable for model beginners or casual players who only wish to assemble. Furthermore, the movable structures are not visible in the abdomen and hip areas of some characters, implying that PLAMATEA is not a fully articulated model kit. Instead of being designed for extensive play, it seems more suited for adjusting poses to display different stances.
・PLAMATEA Angela Balzac
・PLAMATEA RACING MIKU 2023Ver.
・PLAMATEA Hatsune Miku Happy 16th Birthday Ver.
・PLAMATEA Guts Berserker Armor ver.
・PLAMATEA Asuma Toki
・PLAMATEA Shigure Kai San
Nevertheless, the detailed expression of 'PLAMATEA' is still quite striking for a model kit, and it boasts a strong lineup of licensed characters from popular franchises such as "Hatsune Miku", "Kantai Collection", "Blue Archive", "Berserk", and "Expelled from Paradise". As long as the price isn't exorbitant, it's highly anticipated. However, all products are currently still under development, and specifications are not yet finalized. We can only await the official release of more detailed development progress and product information in the future.