A special collaboration project for "SOUL OF CHOGOKIN GX-120 KINGEXKIZER" available in stores from July 25th! Joint review of "SMP THE BRAVE FIGHTER EXKIZER"!
To commemorate this, we're conducting a special collaborative review with "SMP [SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT] THE BRAVE FIGHTER EXKIZER," which is scheduled to be released in October of the same year by Bandai Candy Division!
Let's take a closer look at the appeal of both item!
*The images in this article are product images taken from the latest product samples. The actual product may differ slightly.
*The "SOUL OF CHOGOKIN GX-120 KINGEXKIZER" and "SMP [SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT] THE BRAVE FIGHTER EXKIZER" mentioned in this article are sold separately.
*Products other than "SOUL OF CHOGOKIN GX-120 KINGEXKIZER" and "SMP [SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT] THE BRAVE FIGHTER EXKIZER" mentioned in this article are sold separately.
SOUL OF CHOGOKIN GX-120 KINGEXKIZER
First, let's review the specifications of the "SOUL OF CHOGOKIN GX-120 KINGEXKIZER" which went on sale in stores on July 25th (Saturday). The most important point is"Form-up mechanism in which EXKIZER is stored inside the King Loader."This is reproduced using a dedicated "Form-up frame."
Furthermore, to recreate the action scenes from the show, an interchangeable "action frame" is included. Even when using this action frame, the disassembled EXKIZER can still be stored inside.
Using the Action Frame changes KING EXKIZER 's proportions, and the King Loader transforms into a shape closer to the original design. Its flexible design allows you to choose the frame that suits your preference.
SMP [SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT] THE BRAVE FIGHTER EXKIZER
The "SMP [SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT]," which will release KING EXKIZER at the same time as the Chogokin Damashii, was born in 2016 as "SOUL OF CHOGOKIN," a full-fledged adult-oriented brand that originated from "Minipla," a plastic model kit brand with a history of over 40 years at Bandai Candy Division."S"cene (Scene Recreation)""“M”otion (movable)"""Proportion" (form/shape)Based on the concept of "[...]", the series has been renamed and actively releasing item, and this long-running series celebrates its 10th anniversary this year.
"SMP [SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT] THE BRAVE FIGHTER EXKIZER" not only reproduces the transformation and Form up from each vehicle mode, but also employs an action frame similar to SOUL OF CHOGOKIN series. SMP has been releasing item from Brave Series since its very beginning, EXKIZER, the last of the main robots from the eight TV anime series, is a highly complete product that incorporates the technology cultivated up to that point.
Now, let's take a closer look at the appeal of both, while comparing them!
EXKIZER
The core EXKIZER figure is very small, with SOUL OF CHOGOKIN standing at approximately 90mm tall and the SMP version at approximately 68mm tall, yet both item reproduce the gimmick of transforming from a car to a robot.
Furthermore, each joint is movable, allowing for plenty of posing in robot mode. Both models boast an intricate finish that belies their size!
King Loader
The King Loader is a trailer-type support mecha. When combined, it forms part of the entire body of KING EXKIZER, resulting in a very bulky vehicle.
This is the King Loader towing configuration with EXKIZER at the front. SOUL OF CHOGOKIN version uses special parts to recreate the shape from the design drawings, while the Super Masterpiece (SMP) version achieves the connection using a unique ankle transformation gimmick, allowing you to enjoy the different approaches of each item.
KING EXKIZER
When KING EXKIZER is in its original form, SOUL OF CHOGOKIN stands approximately 270mm tall (approximately 280mm with the action frame), while the Super Masterpiece (SMP) version stands approximately 150mm tall. SOUL OF CHOGOKIN version captures the heroic image depicted in the combination scenes and the special attack Thunder Flash scenes from the show, while the SMP version is sculpted with a massive proportion reminiscent of the original design drawings.
Although the finished proportions differ significantly, both models pursue the image of KING EXKIZER from the anime, and by placing them side by side, you can more deeply appreciate the differences in the directions they aimed for.
Both item feature gold-colored lion manes. As this is a key part of KING EXKIZER 's identity, the finished product looks very impressive.
One of the biggest attractions of the Chogokin Damashii SOUL OF CHOGOKIN is the high percentage of die-cast metal used throughout the entire body, resulting in a total weight of approximately 1.4 kg (approximately 1.3 kg when using the action frame). Die-cast metal is used everywhere, from the frame to the elbow and knee joints, and this is a point that is sure to give you a great sense of satisfaction when you hold it in your hands!
To support its heavy body, the shoulders and hip joints feature sturdy click joints. The satisfying sound and feel when you move it evoke the charm of traditional robot toys. The overwhelming presence created by its size, weight, and gimmicks is what makes SOUL OF CHOGOKIN so appealing!
On the other hand, SMP's greatest strength lies in its ease of use, which takes advantage of the characteristics of a lightweight plastic kit. Even with EXKIZER stored inside, the joints can move this wide!
To achieve this articulation, the shoulders are designed to avoid the internal EXKIZER, and the hip joints are designed to work in conjunction with EXKIZER 's joints. We hope you will enjoy the unique charm of plastic model kits as you assemble it while imagining, "This part will move when it's finished."
Action frame
A feature common to both item is the expanded range of motion thanks to the action frame! SOUL OF CHOGOKIN has increased articulation in both shoulders, waist, and legs, allowing for a perfect pose when the sword is raised above the head to activate the special move, Thunder Flash!
The SMP version adds articulation points that are impossible when EXKIZER is stored, such as waist rotation, torso twisting, and thigh rotation. When combined with "TAMASHII STAGE Act Mechanics," you can enjoy displaying it in dynamic poses as if it's cutting down enemies!
With CHOGOKIN and Minipla as its origins, two brands with extremely long histories, SOUL OF CHOGOKIN and SMP have continued to evolve in their own unique ways. Please enjoy the heroic appearance of the first Brave Robot, KING EXKIZER, brought to you by these two major brands!
SOUL OF CHOGOKIN GX-120 KINGEXKIZER / Available in stores from July 25th, 2026 (Saturday)
SMP [SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT] THE BRAVE FIGHTER EXKIZER / Scheduled for release in stores in October 2026 / Manufacturer: Bandai Candy Division
Also, the Bandai Candy Staff Blog will be publishing interview articles with the project managers for each of item introduced here at a later date! Don't miss it!
*The images in this article are product images taken from the latest product samples. The actual product may differ slightly.
*The "SOUL OF CHOGOKIN GX-120 KINGEXKIZER" and "SMP [SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT] THE BRAVE FIGHTER EXKIZER" mentioned in this article are sold separately.
*Products other than "SOUL OF CHOGOKIN GX-120 KINGEXKIZER" and "SMP [SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT] THE BRAVE FIGHTER EXKIZER" mentioned in this article are sold separately.
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