The market for high-quality PVC figures in Japan has exploded beyond all comprehension in the past several years. The overwhelming majority of anime character figures, however, are of the very feminine persuasion. Maybe you've noticed how everything I've highlighted in my (mostly) weekly figure series has sported (often ample) assets? Beyond a few figure series for stuff like Hokuto no Ken and Devil May Cry, it's pretty hard to find boy-types in the current PVC market. Don't get me wrong, I certainly have nothing against boobies, but a bit more equal opportunity would be great, y'know?
Well, good news, testosterone junkies, because Sega Toys has got you covered with this newly announced PVC release: Kiryu Kazuma! The hero of Sega's PS2 Ryu ga Gotoku/Yakuza games (the second of which just got announced for a European release, no word on a US version yet), Kiryu stands stoic and shirtless, ready to lay a smackdown upon any smartassed punk that crosses his path. He comes complete with an arsenal of asskicking implements and a lighted stand - perfect for showing off the beautifully elaborate tattoo emblazoned upon his back. But most importantly, this Kiryu figure is undeniably manly. He's got the sort of massive, titanium-plated balls that make Stephen Colbert envious, and you can see it rendered in the plastic.
No US release is yet planned. However, if you're interested in adding his aura of awesomeness to your figure collection, Kiryu is available for preorder from import gaming retailer NCSX. He's a bit on the pricey, side, but he would certainly help break up the taco-fest of my current figure party...