Hero Review: [Play Arts Kai] Lightning - Final Fantasy XIII and XIII-2

After finishing Final Fantasy XIII and seeing the Play Arts Kai ad in its game brochure, I thought I’d reward myself with remarkable action figures of the heroes of the story. FFXIII Lightning is not actually my first Play Arts Kai figure, but I guess I’d showcase her first in this blog together with her feisty, armored FFXIII-2 counterpart, Valhalla Lightning.

Lightning is one of the main characters of the FFXIII series. She played a vital role in Final Fantasy 13, freeing and saving the human race from the enslavement of proto-gods called Fal'cie. After the events of Final Fantasy 13, it is learned that she was transported into a place called Valhalla and became the champion of the goddess Etro. 

Packaging and Accessories

FFXIII Lightning’s box is the typical Play Arts packaging: a viewing window on the front and snapshots of the figure in action at the back. The new Play Arts Kai release for FFXIII-2 Lightning sports a cover flap that showcases the figure inside, together with a brief narration of the character's story. There are also snapshots of the posed figure at the rear of the box.

FFXIII Lightning’s accessories include a pair of interchangeable hands (fists/gripping hand), and both of her weapon Blazefire Saber in sword and gun modes. The retractable gun can be stowed in her dangling holster. The details of the weapons are superb, although the gun is quite susceptible to breaking because of the small parts that make it move. There’s also a measly stand that’s really not worth mentioning. Valhalla Lightning’s arsenal includes her traditional gunblade, a green buckler that can be attached to her arm, and a pair of extra hands as usual. Details are also amazing, especially on the sword which features an engraved script and a beautifully designed cross-guard.

Sculpt, Paint and Figure Details

FFXIII Lightning's sculpt and paint apps are done well especially on the outfit. Most of it, including the cape, is made of rubber to define the texture. The flowing cape is a sight to see and you can also use it as an extra support for those three-point landing or kneeling positions. The body is okay save for the exposed joints on her knees, but I guess nothing can be done about that. Overall, the figure is good. I'm just not a big fan of the head sculpt. At some angles, it doesn't look like Lightning at all.

Problems/Issues encountered:

(1) Hands are very hard to replace; (2) Folded gunblade too fragile. Mine broke after a few tweaks.

Valhalla Lightning is totally captured in the figure's sculpt. It's just divine. Suits her well since she's become the protector of the goddess. Check out that armor: the paint  makes it look like it's actually steel, especially under a good light. That well-sculpted feather sash together with it's paint app is just as incredible. The paint on the skin is also good. They actually added some shade at certain parts of the skin to make it more realistic. Her hair has a semi-transparent finish. But what really stands out is her face. Lightning's cold and calculating, yet somehow melancholic expression is captured right there. It seems as though she stepped right out of the video game.

Problems/Issues encountered:

(1) Right spaulder tends to get very loose; (2) Upper arm hinges easily detachable; (3) Left foot stuck in a flat position; (4) Right hand having trouble holding the gunblade, easily detaching from the arm at certain positions.

Scale and Playability

The scale of the FFXIII figures are pretty much all over the place. First release is a batch of giants; the second batch is still different from the usual Play Arts scale, and now the FFXIII-2 release is at last comparable to the old line of Play Arts. That being said, it is not a good idea to put these figures side by side.

As for playability, with over 20 points of articulation, one can never go wrong with Play Arts or Play Arts Kai figures. Both figures are very playable. FFXIII Lightning is easier to pose than Valhalla Lightning, as the latter's intricate armor sometimes hinders her movement. But that aside, I had a lot of fun posing both of them into different action stances, including some of their signature moves!

I would recommend getting both of them if you are a fan of Final Fantasy and if you aim to complete the figures of the FFXIII series. But if you really have to pick between the two, I'd say go for the Valhalla Lightning! It may be a bit pricey considering she's small compared to the other Play Arts Kai figures but I can assure you she's worth every buck you'll spend.