Inazuman

Inazuman is a Japanese superhero created by Shotaro Ishinomori (Kamen Rider, Kikada), who made his debut in the self-titled 1973 TV series.

Wow, Inazuman and I were created in the same year!

If you grew up in Hawaii, you may be familiar with Inazuman, as it was broadcast on KIKU TV in the 70s, in Japanese, with English subtitles. Not from Hawaii, but still grew up in the 70s? You may be more familiar with Inazuman’s ride, the Inazuman Car, RaiJin Gou.

The Popy PA-17 Raijin Gou was imported into Mattel’s Shogun Warriors line as one of the “Shogun Action Vehicles”, known as “Jetcar.” Just another random collision between Japanese and US toys.

The figure you are looking at here is from Bandai’s “Soul of Sofubi”, or “Soul of Soft Vinyl” line. These higher-end vinyl representations are meant to be the ideal representation of the classic vinyl toy. Basically, if they had to make a basic Inazuman vinyl today, this is how it would come out.

There’s not much articulation, but this thing is all about looking cool on your shelf. It’s got great paint apps, and some separately molded parts that are permanently glued on.

If you are looking for a cheap, modern representation of Inazuman as he looked in the show (not some stylized ideal like the SIC line is), than this is for you.