S.H. Figuarts Kamen Rider Ryuga and Dragblacker

Another Ryuki-based rider has entered in the S.H. Figuarts line, this is the clone S.H. Figuarts Kamen Rider Ryuga. A lot may argue that since this is a clone of Kamen Rider Ryuki, you'll basically see a lot of similarities that will make this figure less appealing. That may be true but there is some elegance to this that sets it apart from Ryuki.

Ryuga as a dark clone  shares the same body type as Ryuki but this time paint applications revolve around the matte black, silver highlighted with gold trims. If you know cars, this scheme can be compared with to a Pontiac Firebird. So where are the changes then? On Ryuga that would be on the his card deck on his belt that has his symbol molded on it and it is also the same on the head. The rest yes, just the same.  The add on to the set is a translucent red visor to make that clone motif highlighted more. It is used by just removing the peg gently and plugging the new visor.

This set is inclusive of 10 hands, yes just like Ryuki and the Black DragVisor that is pegged on the left side of his arm. It shares the same gimmick where in the top portion slides forward to place the Advent Cards in. Next is the DragClaw that is on a ball-jointed neck and an open mouth feature just like Ryuki's. This is received on Ryuga's left arm but simply replacing the fist with this accessory.

Ryuga is not without his monster DragBlacker. Dragblacker is segmented into 13 parts including the tail held together by ball jointed pegs that enables each to move around freely. Its legs are also on movable joints that provides a wide array of poseabilities for this figure. And, the legs can transform into DragShields may it be handheld by exchanging the pegs with handles or placed on Ryuga's shoulders. The only flaw I saw on the DragBlacker is the DragSaber still using Ryuki's logo instead of his.

Of course, this package is inclusive of 5 Advent Cards and his own Tamashii Stage complete with 2 arms and parts to help DragBlacker on some difficult positions.

The S.H. Figuarts Kamen Rider Ryuga is another amazing figure from Bandai and collectors and Ryuki fans will be delighted to have this set. Some problems would share with Ryuki which are the loose plugs on the arms and shoulders. It shouldn't be an issue especially if you did enjoy your Ryuki Figuart.  Okay here is the verdict, some who already received their S.H. Figuarts Kamen Rider Ryuga would definitely say I'd rather repaint and remold some piece of Ryuki to avoid the Tamashii Exclusive price tag. Well, if you include that plus buying the right paint, remaking the visor plus labour, I bet it will cost just the same. So better save the hassle and get this figure before it runs out.