HIYA Godzilla vs Destoroyah 1995 Figure Review: Is It Worth It?

When HIYA Toys announced their Exquisite Basic Series figure of Godzilla from the 1995 film 'Godzilla vs Destoroyah', fans knew it would be special. This 8.5 inch figure captures the iconic burning Godzilla design, and we've spent time with it to bring you a thorough review. From the sculpt to the articulation, we'll cover everything you need to know before adding it to your collection.

In this review, we'll also compare it to other figures in your collection, like the Godzilla 2014 NECA 12" Long Modern Ver. Figure and the Godzilla vs. Biollante: Ultimate Beast Sculpt Godzilla (1989) Plastic Model Kit, to help you decide if this HIYA release deserves a spot on your shelf.

First Impressions and Packaging

The HIYA Godzilla 1995 figure comes in a window box that showcases the figure beautifully. The packaging is sturdy and collector-friendly, with a clear view of the figure's menacing pose. Inside, the figure is secured with plastic trays, and you'll also find a display stand and a few interchangeable hands. The box art is striking, featuring the burning Godzilla in all his glory.

Upon unboxing, the first thing you'll notice is the weight. This figure has a solid feel, with a good heft that suggests quality materials. The paint application is impressive, with a mix of glossy and matte finishes that mimic the burning effect from the film. The dorsal plates are particularly well done, with a gradient from orange to yellow that stands out.

• Sturdy window box packaging
• Includes display stand and interchangeable hands
• High-quality paint application with burning effect

Sculpt and Detail

The sculpt is where this figure truly shines. HIYA has captured the menacing look of Godzilla from the 1995 film, with a detailed head that features sharp teeth and expressive eyes. The body is covered in textured scales, and the dorsal plates are individually sculpted, adding to the realism. The arms and legs are well-proportioned, and the tail is long and articulated, allowing for dynamic poses.

Compared to the Godzilla 2014 NECA 12" Long Modern Ver. Figure, the HIYA figure is more stylized but equally detailed. The HIYA figure also holds its own against the Godzilla vs. Biollante: Ultimate Beast Sculpt Godzilla (1989) Plastic Model Kit, though the model kit offers more customization. For fans of the Heisei era, this figure is a must-have.

Articulation and Playability

Articulation is a key factor for any action figure, and the HIYA Godzilla 1995 does not disappoint. The figure features over 30 points of articulation, including a ball-jointed head, multiple joints in the arms and legs, and a segmented tail that can be posed in various ways. The joints are tight but not stiff, allowing for smooth movement without fear of breakage.

The included display stand is a nice addition, as it helps support the figure in dynamic poses. The interchangeable hands allow for different looks, from open claws to a more relaxed stance. While this figure is primarily for display, it can also be played with, though we'd recommend keeping it on the shelf to preserve its condition.

Comparison with Other Figures

When compared to other figures in the same scale, the HIYA Godzilla 1995 stands out for its detail and articulation. The Godzilla 2014 NECA 12" Long Modern Ver. Figure is larger and more movie-accurate to the 2014 design, but the HIYA figure offers more poseability. The Godzilla vs. Biollante: Ultimate Beast Sculpt Godzilla (1989) Plastic Model Kit is a different experience, requiring assembly but offering a high level of detail.

If you're looking for a pre-painted, ready-to-display figure, the HIYA is the way to go. It also pairs well with other HIYA releases, such as the Destoroyah figure, which is sold separately. Together, they make an impressive display that captures the climax of the Heisei era.

Final Verdict

The HIYA Godzilla vs Destoroyah 1995 Figure is a fantastic addition to any Godzilla collection. Its detailed sculpt, excellent articulation, and high-quality paint make it a standout piece. While it may not be the largest figure on the market, it more than makes up for it in presence and playability.

For fans of the Heisei era, this figure is a must-have. It captures the essence of the burning Godzilla and will look great next to your other collectibles. If you're on the fence, we highly recommend adding it to your cart—it's a worthy investment for any collector.

In summary, the HIYA Godzilla 1995 figure is a top-tier collectible that delivers on all fronts. If you're ready to add this stunning piece to your collection, check out the Godzilla vs. Biollante: Ultimate Beast Sculpt Godzilla (1989) Plastic Model Kit for a complementary build, or grab the HIYA figure itself to complete your Heisei display.