Bandai’s SH Figuarts Gamerverse line has been expanding its roster of Marvel heroes, drawing heavily on the nostalgia of classic fighting games. The latest addition, Wolverine, arrives with a host of new features that echo the iconic Marvel vs. Capcom era while also showcasing the brand’s commitment to detail.
At a Glance
- Wolverine debuts in Bandai’s Gamerverse with two interchangeable faceplates and a pixel-art backdrop.
- The figure follows Cyclops and Spider-Man, the line’s first two releases, and will be available in June.
- Pre-orders for the Japanese market begin on February 2.
- Why it matters: Fans receive a fresh, highly articulated collectible that bridges the line’s fighting-game roots with modern toy design.
Bandai’s SH Figuarts Gamerverse
Bandai’s SH Figuarts line began a new Marvel range last year, inspired by the rich legacy of fighting games, especially the historic Marvel vs. Capcom franchise. The figures aim to capture key Marvel heroes in aesthetics that feel like they’re ripped out of the glowing Bengus artwork that defined those games.
- Cyclops and the upcoming Spider-Man were the first two figures, setting a high bar for detail and poseability.
- The line’s focus on classic tag-team gameplay is evident in the design choices and the overall aesthetic.
- Each figure is built to reflect the character’s fighting-game persona, with a particular emphasis on iconic moves and expressions.
Wolverine’s Design Details
Wolverine’s entry into the Gamerverse brings several notable features that differentiate him from the previous releases.
- Alternate Hands: The figure includes a set of interchangeable hand accessories, allowing collectors to switch between a more relaxed stance and a ready-to-battle grip.
- Two Faceplates: One faceplate shows Wolverine’s trademark gritted teeth, while the other portrays a more furious expression with a yell, capturing his volatile nature.
- Pixel-Art Cardboard Backdrop: A new staple for the line, the backdrop depicts Wolverine’s iconic Fatal Claw hyper combo, carving an X-shaped slash across the screen in vivid detail.
- Poseability: Despite a slight reduction in the exaggeration of his claws, Wolverine retains the ability to perform many of his signature poses from the games, including an endearing squatting animation that fans will recognize.
- Artistic Focus: The figure leans more toward a 1990s-style Wolverine rather than a strictly Marvel vs. Capcom rendition, offering a nostalgic yet fresh take.
Comparison with Hasbro’s Gamerverse
The Gamerverse series is also produced by Hasbro, which released a range of two-packs last year inspired by Capcom’s Marvel history. Wolverine is the first figure to be produced by both companies in the line.
- Bandai’s Version: Emphasizes high articulation, detailed faceplates, and a dedicated backdrop.
- Hasbro’s Version: While not detailed in the current release, the existence of both versions suggests a competitive edge and potential differences in design and packaging.
- Collector’s Interest: Enthusiasts will likely compare the two Logans to see which company’s interpretation best captures the character’s essence.
Release Timeline
The SH Figuarts Gamerverse Wolverine is slated for a June release. Pre-orders for the Japanese market will go live next week on February 2.
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Pre-orders in Japan | February 2 |
| Global release | June |
Collectors can anticipate a highly detailed figure that continues Bandai’s tradition of blending fighting-game fidelity with modern toy craftsmanship.
Key Takeaways
- Wolverine’s addition completes the trio of major Marvel heroes in Bandai’s Gamerverse line.
- The figure’s interchangeable hands, dual faceplates, and pixel-art backdrop highlight the brand’s attention to detail.
- The release schedule places the figure in the market during a busy summer period, potentially boosting sales for both Bandai and Hasbro.
- Fans of both the Marvel vs. Capcom series and modern action figures will find this release particularly appealing.
Wolverine’s arrival signals that Bandai’s commitment to the Gamerverse line remains strong, and it sets the stage for future releases that may continue to bridge classic fighting-game aesthetics with contemporary toy design.
About the Author
This article was written by Brianna Q. Lockwood and published by News Of Austin.
