Following the releases of "Kaiju No. 8" and "Kafka Hibino," "Reno Ichikawa," and "Kikoru Shinomiya" from Japanese manga artist Naoya Matsumoto's "Kaiju No. 8," Kotobukiya's popular "ARTFX J" 1/8 scale figure series today (27th) announced its latest product: "Soshiro Hoshina"! Scheduled for release in March 2025, the suggested retail price is 13,600 JPY.
Soshiro Hoshina serves as the Vice-Captain of the Japan Defense Force's Third Division. He typically maintains a gentle, squinting-eyed demeanor. Hailing from a family of kaiju exterminators that has continued since the Muromachi period, Hoshina excels in close-quarters combat. Wielding twin blades and employing Hoshina-style Swordplay to dismember smaller kaiju is his specialty. The stark contrast between his usual self and his sharp, intensely intimidating gaze during battle is another significant charm of Vice-Captain Hoshina. In an era where many believe "swords" are obsolete and firearms are paramount for maximizing combat power, only Mina Ashiro told him, "I need your strength," leading Hoshina to vow his unwavering loyalty to Ashiro and serve as the vanguard for the captain.
This figure stands approximately 15 cm tall, perfectly recreating Vice-Captain Hoshina's battle stance with twin blades and a lowered center of gravity. Meticulous attention has been paid to details such as his signature mushroom cut, the Defense Force uniform, the scabbards and equipment pouches attached to his waist, and more. The expression with only his left eye open is reminiscent of the cool cover of the fourth manga volume. The sculpting of the uniform's wrinkles, the realistic weathering of his equipment, and the sharp metallic feel of his twin blades are all excellently rendered. Coupled with the shattered road base, damaged from combat with kaiju, the figure fully conveys the charisma of Vice-Captain Hoshina in action.
▼ Purchases made through the Kotobukiya official store will receive a bonus interchangeable head sculpt featuring a smiling expression without his mask.
ARTFX J Soshiro Hoshina
Suggested Retail Price: ¥13,600, Product Specifications: 1/8 Scale, approximately 15 cm tall, Estimated Release Date: March 2025
Source: KOTOBUKIYA