The 1/16 scale bipedal combat machine "KRÖTE (KÜSTER) ", produced by Chinese toy manufacturer "EARNESTCORE CRAFT" and originating from the "Maschinen Krieger (Ma.K)" series created by Japanese sci-fi military guru Hiroshi Yokoyama, is now set to release a super cool Limited Clear Version (限定クリアーVer.)! In Japan, it will be exclusively available at the WAVE online store Be-J (ビージェイ) and select retailers.
Hiroshi Yokoyama's original SF series "Ma.K" is set in the 29th century, where Earth has been devastated by the Fourth World Nuclear War, practically becoming a dead planet. However, two factions still vie for supremacy over this land: the "Strahl Republic" and the "Earth Independent Government Mercenary Army". The rich array of toys and models derived from the combat armor and vehicles used by both sides has attracted a vast number of sci-fi military enthusiasts.
In the Ma.K lore, the KRÖTE is a bipedal combat drone used by the Strahl Army for reconnaissance. This 1/16 "KRÖTE Alloy Finished Product" returning in a clear version largely shares the same specifications as the regular version. It features LED light-up functions, a rotatable Gatling gun, and an openable hatch, offering numerous play elements. Furthermore, it can be combined with a rich assortment of interchangeable parts such as 75mm long and short barrels, night combat equipment, and antennas to recreate three forms: KRÖTE, Pak.KRÖTE, and the improved KÜSTER.
Beyond allowing for a deeper appreciation of the internal mechanical beauty, the transparent exterior's appearance is absolutely stunning! Concurrently, some parts of the clear KRÖTE have also changed color; the red shock absorbers on the legs are my personal favorite detail. The overall impression deviates from Ma.K's original tough, wasteland aesthetic, leaning instead towards a visual feel more akin to a robot toy.
1/16 Finished Product KRÖTE (KÜSTER) [Limited Clear Ver.]
Suggested Retail Price: ¥23,100 (Tax Included)
Product Specifications: 1/16 Scale, Approximately 21 cm Tall
(Uses 2 SR621SW batteries, 2 AAA batteries / Sold Separately)
Estimated Release Date: May 2024
Source: WAVE Corporation