Who Was the First Anime Figure?

Anime figures have become a staple of the anime culture, adorning shelves and collections around the world. For fans of anime, these meticulously crafted figurines allow them to bring their favorite characters from the screen into their physical space. But have you ever wondered: who created the first anime figure, and how did the world of collectible anime figures come to be?

The Birth of Anime Figures

The history of anime figures can be traced back to the 1960s, when the anime industry began to gain traction, and its popularity spread beyond Japan. The first anime figures were relatively simple compared to the highly detailed and articulated models that exist today, but they marked the beginning of a new form of fandom for anime enthusiasts.

One of the earliest and most iconic examples of an anime figure comes from the 1960s with the production of figures based on popular characters from the anime Astro Boy (Tetsuwan Atom), which premiered in 1963. Astro Boy, created by Osamu Tezuka, is considered one of the first modern anime series and was a massive hit in Japan. The character's robot-boy design captured the imagination of viewers, and, naturally, it wasn’t long before fans wanted physical representations of their beloved character.

The First Anime Figures: Astro Boy Toys

While Astro Boy was not technically the "first" anime figure, it is widely regarded as one of the first to spark the anime figure craze. In the 1960s, toy companies began creating vinyl figures, statues, and plush toys inspired by the characters from popular anime like Astro Boy, Ultraman, and Speed Racer (Mach GoGoGo). These early figures were typically produced in simple, solid colors and were meant more as toys for children than the highly detailed collectibles we know today.

Among the early figures, there were both action figures and non-articulated statues. These pieces were often made of vinyl or soft plastic and were relatively inexpensive, accessible to a wide range of anime fans. The figures were created in various sizes, from small ones that could be displayed on a shelf to larger ones designed for play.

The Rise of Anime Figures as Collectibles

As anime began to evolve in the 1970s and 1980s, so did the market for anime figures. During this time, anime was no longer solely a children's medium; it began to appeal to a broader audience. With anime series such as Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) and Dragon Ball (1986) growing in popularity, so did the demand for collectible figures.

By the late 1980s and early 1990s, the world saw the emergence of more detailed and articulated anime figures. Companies like Bandai began releasing more sophisticated models, many of which were based on popular anime mecha (robot) characters from Gundam. The figures were made from high-quality materials and were often sold as collectible items rather than just toys for children.

The Pioneers of Modern Anime Figures: Good Smile Company and Revoltech

By the early 2000s, companies such as Good Smile Company and Revoltech took anime figures to the next level, creating highly detailed and articulated figures of characters from contemporary anime series. Good Smile Company, in particular, is known for its high-quality Nendoroid and Figma lines, which feature highly detailed figures with interchangeable parts and accessories. This allowed for greater customization, and collectors could now pose their figures in a variety of ways.

Revoltech also played a major role in revolutionizing the world of anime figures, particularly with their unique joint system, which allowed figures to have even more articulation. Their figures were known for their dynamic poses and precise details, setting a new standard for the industry.

The Popularity of Figures Today

Today, anime figures are highly collectible and are an essential part of anime fandom culture. Some rare figures, especially those from limited runs or older collections, can fetch significant prices on the secondary market. Companies now produce a wide variety of anime figures, ranging from small chibi-style figures to large, life-like statues. Popular franchises such as One Piece, Naruto, Demon Slayer, and Attack on Titan have seen some of the most stunning and highly sought-after figures.

The First Anime Figure in Summary

The first true anime figures began with early creations of characters like Astro Boy in the 1960s, but it wasn’t until the 1970s and 1980s that anime figures began to evolve into the highly detailed and articulated collectibles we know today. While Astro Boy may not have been the first collectible figure, it undeniably sparked the movement that would later grow into the world of anime figures.

Whether you are a lifelong collector or just starting out, there's no denying that anime figures have become an essential part of anime culture, enabling fans to connect with their favorite characters in a tangible, personal way.

If you're looking to start or expand your anime figure collection, check out the stunning range of Homemade Figures available at Youwei Trade. From limited-edition models to beautifully crafted statues, there's something for every anime fan!