Japan’s Major Figure Manufacturers Explained
Bandai Spirits, Good Smile, MegaHouse, Kotobukiya, Banpresto — knowing who makes what helps you judge quality and find the right figure.
One of the fastest ways to shop Japanese figures with confidence is to learn the main manufacturers and the lines they’re known for. Here’s an overview of the biggest names.
Bandai Spirits
Bandai Spirits is one of the largest players. Its Tamashii Nations umbrella includes articulated lines like S.H.Figuarts and fixed-pose Figuarts ZERO, and Bandai also produces Gunpla model kits. Banpresto, known for prize figures, falls under Bandai Spirits as well.
Good Smile Company
Good Smile Company is behind the hugely popular Nendoroid line, distributes the articulated figma line (developed by Max Factory), and produces the affordable fixed-pose Pop Up Parade line, along with premium scale figures.
MegaHouse
MegaHouse is known for collector lines such as Portrait.Of.Pirates (P.O.P), especially popular for One Piece, and the G.E.M. series covering many franchises.
Kotobukiya
Kotobukiya produces the ARTFX line of scale figures, the Bishoujo line, and build-it kit lines like Frame Arms — spanning both anime and Western franchises.
Prize-figure and other makers
- Banpresto — prize figures distributed through Japanese arcades and campaigns.
- Max Factory, Alter and others — well regarded for scale figures.
- Aniplex — figures and goods tied closely to specific anime.
Knowing the maker tells you a lot about a figure’s type, articulation and finish. As always, buy authentic — see our guide on spotting bootlegs.