As I sit at my desk, I can’t help but feel a tinge of embarrassment at the growing number of figures that surround me. Despite being relatively new to the world of figure collecting, I find myself drawn to the shelves of shops like Surugaya and Book Off, eagerly searching for the perfect Hatsune Miku to enhance my collection. While some may view my display cabinet as modest, the thrill of acquiring a new figure from a beloved franchise is undeniably satisfying.
Character Select
In this week’s edition of Character Select, a column dedicated to celebrating the artistic talents within the gaming community, I want to shine a light on the creativity that goes into customizing figures. My own collection may be lacking in video game representations, but the artistry I’ve encountered is nothing short of inspiring.
One standout example comes from yumenikkis, who took it upon themselves to transform a figure of Mizuhara Chizuru from Rent a Girlfriend into Mari from Omori. This ambitious project involved disassembling the original figure, meticulously painting the hair, altering the facial features, and completely revamping the outfit to align with Mari’s aesthetic. The attention to detail is remarkable, especially considering the simplistic design of characters from Omori. Even the base of the figure was thoughtfully redesigned to resemble a picnic basket, complete with a miniature basket and clay candy. For me, the base often makes or breaks a figure, and this creative approach would certainly catch my eye in any store.
Another impressive creator I discovered is Fallen Petal Studios, who takes figure customization to an entirely new level by crafting clay figures from scratch. Each TikTok showcases a different character being brought to life, including Cagney Carnation from Cuphead and the Lamb from Cult of the Lamb. However, it was their rendition of Leah from Stardew Valley, complete with a tiny clay chisel and hammer, that truly captivated me. The intricate details in these projects reveal a passion for the craft that resonates deeply with collectors.
Fallen Petal Studios doesn’t limit their creations to just video game characters; they also produce figures inspired by popular shows like Adventure Time, Over the Garden Wall, and Hazbin Hotel, along with charming figures from various Studio Ghibli films. Their designs, reminiscent of Amiibo figures due to their smaller size and simplified features, add a delightful touch to any display cabinet.
As I reflect on my own collection, I find myself contemplating the possibility of customizing some of my figures. While I can’t promise that my beloved Mikus will be sacrificed for the cause, perhaps I could repurpose some of the less visible figures tucked away on the bottom shelf. With a bit of creativity, they might just earn a spot in the spotlight.
