SHFiguarts Android 17 A Detailed Look at the Action Figure

The SHFiguarts Android 17 figure bursts onto the scene, a meticulously crafted representation of a character beloved by Dragon Ball fans worldwide. We’re diving deep into the world of this dynamic collectible, a figure that embodies the rebellious spirit and formidable power of the artificial human. From the iconic SHFiguarts line, known for its dedication to the Dragon Ball universe, this figure promises to capture the essence of Android 17, a character whose evolution throughout Dragon Ball Z and Super has captivated audiences.

This journey through the figure’s design, accessories, and poseability will provide a comprehensive understanding of what makes this collectible a must-have for enthusiasts. We’ll dissect every detail, from the figure’s articulation and paint application to its overall value and potential for display. Get ready to explore the intricacies of this impressive figure and discover whether it deserves a place on your shelf.

Prepare to be amazed by the level of detail and the sheer posability of this stunning recreation of Android 17.

Table of Contents

Introduction to SHFiguarts Android 17

The world of collectible figures often holds a special place for fans, and few lines capture the essence of their source material quite like SHFiguarts. These meticulously crafted figures bring beloved characters to life, and the Dragon Ball universe is a particular focus.The SHFiguarts line, a product of Bandai Tamashii Nations, is celebrated for its exceptional articulation, allowing for a wide range of dynamic poses, and its attention to detail in sculpting and paint application.

Dragon Ball characters are perfectly suited to this approach, as the series is renowned for its intense action sequences and iconic character designs.

The Significance of Android 17

Android 17, originally known as Lapis, is a significant character in the Dragon Ball Z and Dragon Ball Super sagas. He represents a complex narrative arc, shifting from a villainous antagonist to a heroic protector, and ultimately becoming a vital ally.Android 17’s presence resonates deeply with fans for several key reasons:

His Introduction: He and his twin sister, Android 18, are introduced as formidable threats in the Cell Saga, wreaking havoc and challenging the Z Fighters’ strength. Their initial power levels, coupled with their seemingly limitless energy, make them incredibly dangerous opponents.
His Transformation: The Androids’ storyline explores themes of free will and the consequences of actions, as they struggle with their programming and the directives of Dr. Gero.
His Evolution: In Dragon Ball Super, Android 17 undergoes a significant character arc, embracing a life of protecting wildlife and becoming a family man. This evolution is a testament to the series’ ability to develop and redeem characters.
His Contribution to the Tournament of Power: His participation in the Tournament of Power is crucial. He not only showcases his immense power and strategic thinking but also contributes to the survival of Universe 7, cementing his status as a hero.

Character Personality and Key Characteristics

Android 17’s personality is multifaceted, encompassing elements of both rebellious youth and mature responsibility. His core traits are essential to understanding his character.

Independent and Rebellious: Initially, Android 17 displays a strong independent streak and a rebellious attitude, often disregarding authority and prioritizing his own desires.
Cool and Collected: He maintains a calm demeanor, even in the face of intense combat situations. This composure allows him to assess his opponents and strategize effectively.
Protective and Caring: His evolution in Dragon Ball Super reveals a caring side, particularly towards his family and the wildlife he protects. This highlights a shift from selfish ambition to genuine concern for others.
Immense Power: Android 17 possesses incredible strength, speed, and energy reserves, making him one of the most powerful characters in the Dragon Ball universe. He is a formidable combatant, capable of holding his own against even the strongest opponents.
Unlimited Energy: Android 17’s unique biology grants him an almost inexhaustible supply of energy, allowing him to fight for extended periods without fatigue.

Figure Design and Sculpt

The SHFiguarts Android 17 figure meticulously recreates the character’s appearance from the Cell Saga of Dragon Ball Z. The design focuses on accurately portraying Android 17’s youthful, yet determined, physique and iconic outfit. The figure’s construction and detailing are intended to capture both his inherent strength and his rebellious personality.

Detailed Design Choices

The figure’s design reflects a commitment to replicating Android 17’s distinct visual characteristics. The color palette is vibrant and true to the source material.

Outfit Replication: The figure accurately reproduces Android 17’s attire, including his black and orange jumpsuit, the “17” insignia on his chest, and the black boots. The texture of the clothing is sculpted to appear realistic, with subtle wrinkles and folds that mimic the movement of fabric.
Head Sculpt: The head sculpt is crucial to capturing Android 17’s likeness. The figure’s face features a confident, slightly smug expression, consistent with his character. The sculpted hair is sharp and detailed, with individual strands visible.
Body Proportions: The figure’s proportions are carefully considered to reflect Android 17’s lean and athletic build. The musculature is subtly sculpted to indicate his power without appearing overly bulky.
Accessories: The figure typically includes interchangeable hands and faces, allowing for a variety of poses and expressions. These accessories further enhance the figure’s playability and display options.

Articulation and Posing Possibilities

The SHFiguarts Android 17 figure is engineered with a high degree of articulation, allowing for a wide range of dynamic poses. This is a critical feature for collectors who want to recreate iconic scenes from the anime.

Neck: The neck joint allows for head tilting and rotation, enabling dynamic looks and stances.
Shoulders and Arms: The shoulders feature a combination of ball joints and swivel joints, allowing for a full range of motion. The elbows and wrists are also highly articulated, enabling a variety of arm positions.
Torso: The torso incorporates a mid-torso joint, which allows for bending and twisting, contributing to the figure’s ability to achieve natural poses.
Hips and Legs: The hips utilize a combination of ball joints and swivel joints, granting a wide range of leg movement. The knees and ankles are also highly articulated, allowing for dynamic poses like running, jumping, and kicking.
Feet: The ankles are designed with swivel and hinge joints, allowing for balance in various poses.

Facial Expression Capture

Capturing the essence of Android 17’s character extends beyond the general sculpt; it’s about the subtleties of his expressions. The figure aims to achieve this through interchangeable face plates.

Interchangeable Face Plates: Typically, the figure comes with multiple face plates, each depicting a different expression. These faces capture a range of emotions, from Android 17’s trademark smirk to a more serious or battle-ready expression.
Eye and Mouth Detail: The eyes are meticulously painted to convey his intensity. The shape of the mouth and the subtle lines around the eyes are designed to communicate a sense of confidence, mischief, or determination, depending on the chosen face.
Example: One face might feature a slightly open mouth and narrowed eyes, suggesting a moment of intense focus or combat readiness, mirroring a specific scene from the Cell Games. Another face might display a relaxed, confident smirk, reflecting his more playful side.

Accessories and Features

Review S.H.Figuarts Android 17 Universe Survival Saga por Tamashii Nations

Android 17, a character known for his cool demeanor and formidable power, comes to life in this SHFiguarts figure with a selection of accessories designed to capture his iconic moments. These additions aren’t just mere trinkets; they are crucial components that elevate the figure from a static display piece to a dynamic representation of the character’s personality and fighting prowess.

The included items allow collectors to recreate pivotal scenes from the Dragon Ball series and customize their display to reflect their favorite moments.

Interchangeable Parts and Their Functionality

The figure’s play value is significantly enhanced by the inclusion of various interchangeable parts. These allow for a wide range of poses and expressions, mirroring Android 17’s diverse actions throughout the series. The meticulous design ensures that swapping these parts is a seamless process, maintaining the figure’s aesthetic integrity.

Accessory	Description	Function	Image
Interchangeable Face Plates	Several face plates are provided, showcasing different expressions. These include a standard, neutral expression, a determined battle face, and a more aggressive, smirking expression.	Allows for the recreation of various moods and actions, from calm observation to intense combat.	A close-up view of the figure’s face, highlighting the detailed sculpting and paint application. The standard face shows a stoic expression, while the battle face features furrowed brows and clenched teeth. The smirking face showcases a cocky, confident expression.
Interchangeable Hands	Multiple sets of hands are included, allowing for a variety of poses. These include open hands for energy effects, fists for combat, and hands designed to hold specific accessories.	Enables the figure to hold energy blasts, engage in hand-to-hand combat, and recreate iconic poses from the anime.	Various hand poses are displayed: a closed fist ready to strike, an open palm to generate an energy blast, and a relaxed hand pose to portray a casual stance.
Energy Effect Parts	Energy effect parts represent Android 17’s signature energy attacks, such as the “Energy Mine.”	Enhances the dynamic appearance of the figure, simulating the power and impact of his attacks.	A translucent blue energy blast effect is shown, attached to the figure’s hand, simulating an energy attack. The effect is designed with intricate details, giving the illusion of explosive power.
Optional Parts for the Vest	Sometimes, figures may include optional parts that allow for the vest to be opened or removed.	Offers further customization options to reflect different appearances of Android 17.	The figure is displayed with the vest open and closed, showcasing the flexibility of the figure’s design and highlighting the different ways the character can be presented.

Paint Application and Quality

The paint application on a figure is what truly brings it to life, transforming sculpted plastic into a dynamic representation of a character. It’s the artistry that captures the nuances of form, the subtle shifts in light and shadow, and the vibrancy of the character’s design. With SHFiguarts Android 17, the paintwork is a critical element in achieving a convincing and collectible representation.

Color Palette and Shading Techniques

The color palette employed for Android 17’s figure is largely faithful to his anime appearance. His signature orange, black, and blue attire is replicated with careful consideration. The orange jacket features a slightly weathered appearance, suggesting wear and tear, and the black undershirt and pants provide a stark contrast. The blue sections, like the belt and wristbands, are equally well-defined.The shading techniques employed aim to create depth and dimension.

Subtle washes and dry brushing are likely used to accentuate the sculpted details, particularly on the clothing. These techniques help to mimic the way light would interact with the fabric, adding realism. For example, the creases and folds in the jacket might have darker shading to simulate shadows, while raised areas would appear lighter. The skin tone is also likely shaded to provide a sense of volume and definition.

This includes areas like the cheeks, the jawline, and the musculature of the arms and legs.

Comparison to Other SHFiguarts Figures

Comparing the paint quality of Android 17 to other figures within the SHFiguarts line reveals both strengths and potential weaknesses. SHFiguarts, in general, has a reputation for high-quality paint application, often exceeding the standards of other action figure lines.

Strengths: SHFiguarts often excels in the sharpness of the paint lines and the overall consistency of the paint. The color matching, particularly for complex characters with many different colors, is generally very good. The use of metallic paints, for certain characters or accessories, is another area where SHFiguarts often shines, creating a premium feel.
Weaknesses: Despite the generally high quality, there are occasional inconsistencies. Some figures may exhibit minor paint bleed or imperfections. The choice of paint finish (e.g., matte vs. gloss) can sometimes affect the overall look, with some collectors preferring a more matte finish to avoid a “plastic” appearance. The paint on certain joints, which experience friction during posing, may be prone to wear and tear over time.

Potential Paint Imperfections and Issues

While the overall paint application is generally expected to be good, there are a few potential issues that may arise with the Android 17 figure.

Paint Bleed: This occurs when the paint goes outside the intended lines, particularly around smaller details or color transitions.
Inconsistent Application: The paint may not be applied evenly across the figure, leading to variations in color or texture.
Dust and Debris: Small particles of dust or debris can sometimes get trapped in the paint during the manufacturing process, resulting in tiny imperfections.
Joint Rub: As mentioned previously, paint on the joints can rub off or wear down over time, especially with frequent posing.

These imperfections, if present, are usually minor and do not detract significantly from the overall appearance of the figure. However, they are worth noting, especially for collectors who are meticulous about paint quality.

Posability and Range of Motion

Android 17, a character known for his agility and combat prowess, demands a figure capable of reflecting that. The SHFiguarts Android 17 aims to deliver this, providing collectors with a highly articulated figure designed to capture the dynamism of the character. We will explore the figure’s movement capabilities and how they stack up against the competition.

Figure’s Range of Motion Demonstration

The SHFiguarts Android 17 boasts a remarkable range of motion, allowing for a wide variety of poses inspired by the anime. The articulation points are strategically placed to maximize the figure’s flexibility without compromising its aesthetic appeal.

Neutral Stance: The figure can stand perfectly upright, demonstrating excellent balance and stability. The head can be tilted and turned realistically, and the arms can hang naturally at the sides.
“Energy Blast” Pose: The figure can effectively mimic the iconic energy blast pose. The arms can be raised and angled in a way that is true to the source material.
“Kamehameha” Pose (Variations): The figure can assume various Kamehameha poses, from the charging phase with both hands together to the moment of release. The torso and leg articulation contribute to the power and focus of this pose.
“Flying” Pose: The figure is capable of replicating the character’s aerial combat. The legs can be extended and angled to simulate flight, and the torso can be tilted to convey movement.
“Defensive” Pose: The figure can adopt a defensive stance with the arms crossed to protect the body. This pose showcases the articulation in the shoulders and elbows.

Articulation Comparison to Other SHFiguarts

Comparing Android 17’s articulation to other figures in the SHFiguarts line reveals the evolution of the line’s design and engineering. Figures from earlier in the line may have had more limited ranges of motion due to the limitations of the technology and design philosophies of the time. However, newer figures, including Android 17, benefit from advancements in joint design and materials, resulting in significantly improved posability.For instance, the double-jointed elbows and knees allow for a greater range of movement than single-jointed designs.

Similarly, the articulation in the ankles allows for a wide range of stances, which is crucial for dynamic poses.

Dynamic Pose Sequence Showcase

Here is a sequence of poses that showcases the figure’s dynamic capabilities, designed to bring Android 17 to life:

Ready for Battle: A dynamic pose with a slightly crouched stance, one arm raised defensively, and the other clenched in a fist, ready to strike. The head is tilted, conveying a sense of focus and alertness. The figure’s articulation in the ankles allows it to maintain balance in this slightly unstable pose.
Mid-Air Strike: The figure is posed mid-leap, one leg extended forward, the other bent behind. The arms are outstretched, as if delivering a powerful blow. The torso is twisted to add dynamism. The shoulder and hip joints are crucial for achieving this pose.
Energy Charging: The figure is in the process of gathering energy. Both hands are held close to the body, and the figure is slightly hunched over, concentrating power. The head is bowed, and the eyes are narrowed. The chest and waist articulation allows for this pose.
Energy Release: The figure is releasing a powerful energy blast. The arms are extended forward, with hands cupped to simulate the energy sphere. The legs are slightly spread apart for balance, and the torso is angled to convey the force of the blast.
Triumphant Stance: A final pose depicting the figure in a victorious stance. One arm is raised in triumph, and the other is relaxed. The head is held high, and a confident expression is on the face. The figure stands tall, showcasing its poseability and the character’s personality.

Comparison with Other Android 17 Figures

So, you’ve got the SHFiguarts Android 17 in your hands, huh? Awesome! But before you lock him away in a display case, let’s take a look at how he stacks up against the competition. There’s a whole multiverse of Android 17 figures out there, each with its own quirks and charms. We’re going to break down the key differences, helping you decide if you’ve truly bagged the ultimate Android 17.

Figure Comparison Table

Let’s dive into a comparison table that highlights the strengths and weaknesses of different Android 17 figures. This table will compare the SHFiguarts version with other popular options, providing a clear overview of their features. The table format offers an easy way to see the key differences at a glance.

Feature	SHFiguarts	Other Figure (e.g., Dragon Stars, FiguartsZERO)	Verdict
Scale	Typically around 6 inches (15 cm), in scale with other SHFiguarts figures.	Varies. Dragon Stars figures are often slightly larger. FiguartsZERO figures are typically static and can vary in size.	SHFiguarts offers excellent scale consistency, making it ideal for collectors who prioritize display uniformity.
Sculpt	Highly detailed sculpt capturing the character’s likeness and muscular physique, often based on the anime appearance.	Sculpt quality varies. Dragon Stars figures may have simpler sculpts. FiguartsZERO offers dynamic poses with sculpted effects but less articulation.	SHFiguarts usually wins out here due to its focus on both detail and poseability.
Articulation	Excellent articulation with multiple points of articulation, allowing for a wide range of dynamic poses.	Articulation varies significantly. Dragon Stars figures have a more limited range of motion. FiguartsZERO figures are static, lacking articulation.	SHFiguarts excels in this area, offering the best options for posing and play.
Accessories	Often includes multiple interchangeable hands, faces, and energy blast effects.	Accessories are typically fewer. Dragon Stars figures may include basic effects. FiguartsZERO often features elaborate energy blasts but lacks other accessories.	SHFiguarts provides a richer experience, allowing for more customization and display options.
Paint Application	Generally features high-quality paint application with accurate colors and shading.	Paint quality varies. Dragon Stars figures can have simpler paint schemes. FiguartsZERO figures often have detailed paintwork, especially on effects.	SHFiguarts usually offers a balance of quality and accuracy.
Price	Generally more expensive than figures like Dragon Stars but less expensive than some premium lines.	Dragon Stars are typically more budget-friendly. FiguartsZERO prices can vary.	The price reflects the higher quality and features of SHFiguarts.

Scale, Sculpt, and Articulation Differences

The differences in scale, sculpt, and articulation are key factors when choosing an Android 17 figure. Let’s look at the specifics.

Scale is crucial if you’re building a collection. SHFiguarts figures are designed to be consistent in scale with each other, creating a visually appealing display. This means your Android 17 will fit right in with your other Dragon Ball Z SHFiguarts figures, such as Goku or Vegeta. Other lines, like Dragon Stars, might be slightly larger, which can throw off the balance of your display.

Imagine trying to fit a super-sized Android 17 into a scene with smaller figures; it just wouldn’t look right.

The sculpt determines how accurately the figure captures the character’s appearance. SHFiguarts excels in this area, with highly detailed sculpts that closely resemble the anime version of Android 17. The figure’s muscles, clothing, and facial expressions are all meticulously crafted. Other figures, like Dragon Stars, might have simpler sculpts, which can result in a less detailed and accurate representation. For example, the intricate folds in Android 17’s clothing or the subtle lines of his face might be simplified in a Dragon Stars figure.

FiguartsZERO, on the other hand, often offers dynamic sculpts, showcasing the character in action poses with impressive effects.

Articulation is all about the range of motion. SHFiguarts figures are known for their excellent articulation, allowing for a wide variety of poses. You can recreate your favorite scenes from the anime, from a casual stance to a powerful energy blast. This flexibility is a major advantage. Dragon Stars figures often have more limited articulation, which can restrict the poses you can create.

FiguartsZERO figures are static, meaning they have no articulation at all. While they may have impressive sculpts and effects, they can’t be posed. Consider the iconic scene where Android 17 confronts Goku. With an SHFiguarts figure, you can easily pose him in that exact moment.

Collecting and Display

Collecting action figures, particularly high-quality ones like SHFiguarts Android 17, is a rewarding hobby. However, the enjoyment is maximized when the figures are properly cared for and displayed to their full potential. This section provides guidance on preserving your Android 17 figure and showcasing it in a visually appealing manner.

Storage and Maintenance

Proper storage and maintenance are essential to preserving the condition of your SHFiguarts Android 17 figure, ensuring its longevity and value. This involves several key practices.

Environmental Control: Store your figure in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Excessive heat or cold can warp the plastic, and UV rays can cause discoloration. Consider using a climate-controlled display case if you live in an area with significant temperature fluctuations.
Dust Protection: Dust is the enemy of any collectible. Regularly dust your figure with a soft brush or microfiber cloth. Avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive cleaners, as they can damage the paint and plastic. A display case or a sealed container will provide the best protection against dust.
Handling with Care: Always handle the figure with clean hands. Avoid excessive force when posing or articulating the joints, as this can lead to breakage. Be particularly careful with small accessories and delicate parts.
Original Packaging: If possible, retain the original packaging. This can significantly increase the figure’s value if you ever decide to sell it. The packaging also provides additional protection during storage and transport.
Regular Inspections: Periodically inspect your figure for any signs of damage, such as paint chipping, joint loosening, or plastic degradation. Addressing minor issues promptly can prevent them from escalating into more significant problems.

Display Options

The way you display your SHFiguarts Android 17 figure can significantly enhance your enjoyment of it. There are numerous creative options to consider, ranging from simple poses to elaborate dioramas.

Classic Poses: Recreate iconic poses from the Dragon Ball Super series. Android 17’s signature stance, with his arms crossed or preparing an energy blast, are excellent choices. Experiment with different angles and perspectives to find the most dynamic poses.
Dynamic Action Poses: Use a figure stand to create dynamic action poses. This allows you to simulate flight, energy blasts, or other action sequences. The Tamashii Stage Act stands are a popular choice for their versatility.
Dioramas: Create a diorama to provide context and environment for your figure. A simple diorama could involve a custom-painted base representing a battleground, or a more elaborate one could include custom-made scenery and other figures. Consider the landscape of the Super Hero arc.
Lighting: Experiment with different lighting setups to highlight the figure’s details and create a dramatic effect. Spotlights, LED strips, and even natural light can be used to achieve different results.
Group Displays: If you collect other Dragon Ball figures, create a group display featuring Android 17 alongside his allies or enemies. This can tell a story and create a visually appealing display.

Tips for Photographing Your Figure

Lighting: Use soft, diffused lighting to avoid harsh shadows. A softbox or a well-lit room with natural light is ideal.

Background: Choose a background that complements the figure. A plain white or black background can create a clean, professional look. Consider using a backdrop that matches the environment of the series, such as a rocky landscape or a city skyline.

Angles: Experiment with different angles and perspectives to capture the figure’s best features. Try shooting from low angles to create a sense of power or from high angles to showcase the figure’s details.

Focus: Ensure that the figure is in sharp focus. Use a camera with a macro lens or a smartphone with a good camera to capture the details of the figure.

Post-Processing: Use photo editing software to enhance the colors, contrast, and sharpness of your photos. Be careful not to over-edit, as this can make the figure look unnatural.

Value and Availability

The SHFiguarts Android 17 figure, a prized possession for many Dragon Ball Z collectors, presents a fascinating study in the ever-shifting landscape of collectible pricing and accessibility. Understanding the nuances of its market value and where to acquire it is crucial for anyone looking to add this formidable android to their collection. Let’s dive into the specifics.

Current Market Value

The value of a SHFiguarts Android 17 figure fluctuates based on several factors, making it a dynamic item in the collector’s market. Generally, the price hovers within a specific range, but it can deviate significantly.

The current market value is heavily influenced by supply and demand.

For example, a mint-in-box (MIB) figure typically commands a higher price than a figure that has been opened or is in less-than-perfect condition. Similarly, the availability of the figure plays a significant role; limited releases or figures from older production runs are often more valuable due to their scarcity. Furthermore, seasonal trends and popularity spikes related to Dragon Ball Z media can also impact prices, leading to temporary increases in demand and, consequently, higher prices.

Purchasing the Figure

Acquiring the SHFiguarts Android 17 figure involves exploring various avenues, each with its own advantages and potential pitfalls. Here’s a look at the most common options:

Online Retailers: Reputable online retailers, such as Amazon, BigBadToyStore, and Entertainment Earth, are primary sources. They typically offer new figures at the suggested retail price or slightly above, depending on availability. These retailers provide a degree of consumer protection, making them a safe option for purchasing.
Secondary Markets: Sites like eBay and specialized online forums are popular secondary markets. Here, collectors can find both new and used figures. The prices vary widely, often depending on the figure’s condition, the seller’s reputation, and current market trends. It is important to carefully assess the seller’s feedback and the figure’s description before making a purchase to avoid counterfeits or damaged goods.
Specialty Stores: Local comic book shops, anime stores, and hobby shops sometimes carry SHFiguarts figures. These stores can be a good source for finding figures, but their selection may be limited, and prices can vary.

Factors Affecting Price

Several key factors contribute to the final price of a SHFiguarts Android 17 figure. Understanding these factors will help you make informed purchasing decisions.

Condition: The condition of the figure is paramount. A MIB figure, with the original packaging intact and unopened, will generally be the most valuable. Figures that have been opened but are in excellent condition will be valued lower, while those with signs of wear, such as paint scratches or loose joints, will be priced even lower.
Rarity: Limited edition releases or figures from older production runs are often more difficult to find. This scarcity drives up demand and, consequently, the price. Special versions, such as those with exclusive accessories or alternate paint schemes, also tend to command higher prices.
Seller Reputation: On secondary markets, the seller’s reputation plays a critical role. Sellers with positive feedback and a history of reliable transactions often can charge a premium, as buyers trust them more. Conversely, new sellers or those with negative feedback may need to offer lower prices to attract buyers.
Market Trends: The popularity of Dragon Ball Z and the specific Android 17 character, along with overall collector trends, influences prices. When the series experiences a surge in popularity (perhaps due to a new movie or video game release), the demand for figures like Android 17 can increase, leading to higher prices.

Potential Repaints and Variants

The world of SHFiguarts figures, particularly within the Dragon Ball Z line, thrives on the possibilities of repaints and character variations. Android 17, a fan favorite, is no exception. These repaints and variants offer collectors exciting opportunities to expand their displays, capturing different moments and styles of the character. Let’s delve into the existing and potential future iterations of this formidable fighter.

Existing Repaints and Variants

Currently, the SHFiguarts Android 17 figure doesn’t have a wide variety of official repaints. The original release remains the primary representation of the character. However, this is common for figures, and often the secondary market can see slight variations based on production runs or limited edition releases.

Potential Future Repaints and Variants Fans Might Want

The potential for future Android 17 variants is considerable, considering his evolution throughout the Dragon Ball Z and Super series. Here are some of the most anticipated possibilities, accompanied by descriptions of the visual differences:

Super Saiyan Android 17: While not a canonical transformation, a “what if” scenario could depict Android 17 with a Super Saiyan-esque aura and coloring. This would be a unique and popular variant, likely featuring:
- A vibrant, golden or yellow hair color, replacing his standard black.
- A dynamic energy effect surrounding the figure, possibly with a blue or green tint.
- A determined facial expression, reflecting the increased power.
Android 17 (Super Dragon Ball Heroes): The Super Dragon Ball Heroes arcade game offers a wealth of alternate designs. An Android 17 figure based on this would present a fresh aesthetic. Expect:
- A new outfit, potentially incorporating elements of his standard attire with added armor or stylistic details.
- Different accessories, such as energy blasts or unique weaponry specific to his Heroes appearance.
- A distinct color palette, deviating from the original design to match his Heroes design.
Android 17 (Tournament of Power): During the Tournament of Power arc in Dragon Ball Super, Android 17 showcased his strength and strategic abilities. A figure from this arc would capture his more mature and experienced look. This could involve:
- Slightly altered clothing, perhaps with minor battle damage or added details.
- A wider range of expressive faces, reflecting his tactical mindset.
- Optional accessories, such as a ki blast effect or a protective barrier.

Overall Impression and Recommendation

The SHFiguarts Android 17 figure presents a compelling offering for collectors, balancing a faithful representation of the character with the articulation and features expected from the line. It’s a figure that excels in some areas and has room for improvement in others, making its appeal dependent on individual collecting priorities.

Strengths and Weaknesses Summary, Shfiguarts android 17

Evaluating the figure requires a balanced perspective. A clear understanding of its strong points and areas needing refinement is crucial for informed decision-making.

Strengths:
- Accurate Sculpt and Design: The figure accurately captures Android 17’s appearance from the Cell Saga, with a well-proportioned body and detailed sculpting of his clothing and hair. The likeness is immediately recognizable to fans.
- Excellent Articulation: The articulation allows for a wide range of dynamic poses, enabling collectors to recreate iconic action scenes from the anime. This is a hallmark of the SHFiguarts line and is well-executed here.
- Good Accessories: The included accessories, such as multiple faceplates and interchangeable hands, provide options for customization and enhance the figure’s display potential. These accessories enrich the figure’s play value.
Weaknesses:
- Paint Application Consistency: While generally good, some collectors have reported minor inconsistencies in the paint application, particularly around the edges of the clothing or facial details. This can detract from the overall premium feel.
- Price Point: The figure’s price, while typical for SHFiguarts, might be considered a barrier for some collectors, especially when considering other competing figures or budget constraints. The cost needs to be weighed against the value offered.
- Limited Accessories: While the included accessories are adequate, some collectors might desire more, such as energy blast effects or specific accessories seen in certain scenes from the series. This is subjective but worth considering.

Recommendation for Collectors

Purchasing this figure is an investment in your collection. Whether it’s the right investment depends on your individual preferences and collecting goals.

If you’re a dedicated Dragon Ball fan and prioritize accuracy, articulation, and the ability to pose your figures dynamically, then this figure is highly recommended.

The figure is a solid representation of Android 17 and will undoubtedly enhance any display. However, if you are particularly sensitive to minor paint imperfections or are on a strict budget, it might be worth considering alternatives or waiting for a potential sale. The decision hinges on your personal collecting criteria.

Target Audience and Appeal

Understanding the target audience is key to appreciating the figure’s design and features.The primary target audience is undoubtedly Dragon Ball fans, specifically those who enjoy collecting high-quality, articulated action figures. The figure appeals to this group because:

Character Popularity: Android 17 is a popular character, particularly among fans of the Cell Saga and Super series, making the figure instantly appealing.
Brand Recognition: SHFiguarts is a well-regarded brand known for its quality and articulation, attracting collectors who value these attributes.
Display and Poseability: The figure’s articulation and accessories allow for dynamic and visually engaging displays, satisfying collectors who enjoy posing their figures in action-oriented scenes.

The figure also appeals to:

Collectors of the SHFiguarts Line: Fans of the SHFiguarts line, who are already invested in the brand, will likely add this figure to their collection to complete their Dragon Ball roster.
Customizers and Kitbashers: The figure’s design and articulation make it a good base for customizers who enjoy modifying or repainting figures.