Ultraman Taro Warrior of Light (Hikari no Ultra Senshi) Review

With the new Ultraman television series, "Ultraman Ginga," there's no surprise that there is a flood of new merchandise. Besides Ultraman Ginga, I was surprised to find out that Ultraman Taro had a supporting role in the series (as a talking toy, don't ask) and was included in said landfill of new toys.

Ultraman Taro first had his own television series in 1973, but has made several appearances since then, namely 2006's "Ultraman Mebius and Ultra Borthers." He's been one of my favorite due to his unique design.


So, let's take a look at this 6" figure. There is a rubbery feel to Taro, not unlike the rubber suits that make up the Ultraman costumes. The legs feel solid and shouldn't warp over time.  Due to the electronics in its chest, the toy does have a bit of a heft to it.


Now there's virtually no articulation. Okay, the arms move up and down, but they feel a little wobbly, like I could just pull them out of their sockets if I wanted to. But what it lacks in articulation, it makes up in a very solid sculpt.


Taro has a very strong stance. The sculpt captures a lot of the details from the actual suit, including the boots, gloves, and the wrinkles in certain areas.  The head and chest look very "on-model." In other words, Taro is a great looking statue.


A great looking statue that lights up, of course. The whole concept behind the "Warrior of Light" series is that the Ultraman's eyes and color timer light up at a press of a button.  I would have preferred that it be a switch so that I could leave Taro on, but it's minor at best. My only other complaint is that the color timer seems really bright, laser pointer bright.

Overall, it's a great, but immobile, version of Taro. I'm so happy that they even cut out the area in Taro's fin. A lot of companies are too lazy to do that.