Taito Arcadia

Ahoy Matey! Captain Harlock’s Arcadia, off the starboard bow!

In my mind, the name Captain Harlock, always conjures images of swashbuckling space pirates with eye patches. Captain Harlock, is probably one of the most popular of Leiji Matsumoto’s space operas, second only to Space Battleship Yamato.

Today, I will be reviewing, the TV version of Captain Harlock’s Arcadia. This will be my second entry into Taito’s Super Mechanics line of UFO catcher prize toys.

Like Taito’s Yamato, Arcadia does not disappoint. Packaged in the now familiar window box, you will see a striking illustration of Captain Harlock himself.

After Arcadia is removed from its box, some light assembly is required (wings, front knife, and front 2 ailerons). Then, and only then, will you truly appreciate the detail and beauty of this toy.

Arcadia is a full 40cm long. Thats almost 16 inches from it’s Jolly Roger flagged stern, to the tip of the bow mounted knife blade. The Arcadia is well made and sturdy. Comprised from quality plastic and ABS.

One of the Arcadia’s really cool features, is the paint detail. Notice, the deck planking and stern, are painted to give the authentic look of wood. Other cool features included are, rotating adjustable turrets, wing mounted missiles, and a miniature pilot’s helm with ship’s wheel.

The included stand does not take away from the side profiles ominous appearance. As you can see, the classic skull and crossbones really standout on both port and starboard sides.

I really like this toy. As with Taito’s Yamato, its hard to believe that Arcadia, originally cost only $15.00 USD. Consider yourself lucky if you can acquire it at that price now. Even if you pay a little more, it will certainly be cheaper than the Shin Seiki Gokin version made by Aoshima. If Taito keeps this up, I’ll have to buy the whole line.

Arrrgh! Get this hidden treasure! Before it be gone!