The Max Factory, a well-known Japanese manufacturer, has recently explained the challenges faced whilst developing the Solid Snake action figure from the figma range.
According to the Konami Blog, the figure was changed “3-4 times” during its early development stage, with Yoji Shinkawa, the lead artist on Hideo Kojima’s Metal Gear Solid franchise, overseeing development on the improvements made.
“The figure is based [on] the figma male body originally sculpted by one of Japan’s most well-known action figure sculptors, Masaki Apsy,” a representative said. “Polyester putty is then applied onto this base body and sculpted into shape. Parts of the weapons are made using 3D sculpting software.”
Masanori Kuroda, the figure’s sculptor, said the design of Solid Snake’s body size and build were based off an illustration personally drawn by Shinkawa. Meanwhile, the attention to detail on the figure’s belt, weapons and equipment were designed off a CG model of Solid Snake.
“The part I found most difficult while working on the sculpt was his muscles,” he added. “I wanted to keep a more realistic feeling for Snake, but at the same time I wanted to keep the animated feeling that the figma series is known for, which made it quite difficult to find a good compromise. I am quite confident in the final result though, as even Shinkawa was kind enough to compliment them.
“I also had to really put my mind into how the articulation would work out. For instance, a special movement was added to the back of his hair in order to ensure his prone pose could be recreated. An all new joint was also designed for his shoulders in order to pose him aiming his gun.”
Earlier this month, Konami confirmed the Good Smile Online Shop would be taking pre-orders for the action figure until November 26th, 2014, with the figure retailing at ¥7,800 (approximately £43/$68).
You can find images of the figma Solid Snake action figure below.
