Toy Review: S.H. Figuarts Kamen Rider 555 GLOWING STAGE SET

The S.H. Figuarts Kamen Rider Faiz Glowing Stage Set is a box containing two trays for the black light stage and for Kamen Rider Faiz. Without the black light, Faiz has almost no significant changes that would separate from its initial release. But with a closer inspection, Faiz seems to have a brighter color found on the red lines and also on his compound eyes. When you take this out of the box, Faiz already has the Faiz Shot and Pointer already attached on his gear.

Even his accessory count is the same with the first release. We have the Faiz Pointer to peg on his right leg, the Faiz Phone in normal phone mode, a Faiz Blaster and with the Faiz Pointer attachments. This set is also inclusive of 4 hands, one of which is using the Faiz Shot. Then, included in the mix are the Faiz Edge and the Faiz Driver, without the phone and with, however the Mission Memory is absent.

The main reason you are buying this is the Glowing Stage. Its stage is a platform with a clear dome covering the Smart Brain logo. You can place the two LED black lights in any of the 10 sections around the platform. Since, you can’t make the figure stand on the clear dome, a clear arm is included very similar to a Tamashii Stage Act 4. To use this stage, you need 3 triple A batteries and the switch can be found just in one of the panels. 

It has been said in different forums and Tamashii figure collectors that it is best to buy the regular release and modify it accordingly to match this set. I am not capable or have the know-how to make or modify the items I have. Moreover it may cost more than just buying a separate set. As a Faiz fan, the Glowing Stage Set brings a better representation of the effects seen on the show. If you haven't had a S.H. Figuarts Kamen Rider Faiz yet and online stores are selling this higher than its initial release, I'd recommend to spend a little bit more for a Faiz figure that is better in terms of the overall package. Besides, Bandai didn't diminish the number of accessories but added features to make the experience more enjoyable. Even life-like. More to this from the video review below.