EnglishConvention - SDCC 2024 : Bandai Bandai Booths – A Deep Dive into the Pop Culture Phenomenon
By Mulder, San Diego, Convention center, 26 july 2024
San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) 2024 has once again opened its doors to thousands of fans, and few exhibitors command as much attention as Bandai Namco. Known for its expansive and immersive displays, Bandai's booths have become synonymous with pop culture grandeur, offering exclusive products, interactive experiences, and tantalizing sneak peeks into the world of anime, gaming, and collectibles. This year, Bandai's presence at SDCC is more significant than ever, with six major booths spread across the convention floor, each dedicated to a different facet of their vast product lineup.
One of the crown jewels of Bandai's SDCC presence is the Tamashii Nations booth (#3329). This booth is a veritable treasure trove for Dragon Ball fans, featuring exclusive S.H.Figuarts figures that bring beloved characters to life in incredible detail. Among the highlights are the figures of Son Goku, Son Gohan (Kid), and the iconic Kintoun. The Goku figure, complete with his famous Power Pole and interchangeable hands, is a collector's dream, while the Kintoun, designed with both straight and curved tail options, adds an extra layer of authenticity to the set. Also making waves at this booth are the new editions of Jiren from the "Final Battle" series and Super Saiyan Future Trunks. Jiren, with his glossy finish and beefed-up physique, and Trunks, with his perfectly rendered Super Saiyan hair, stand out as must-have items for any serious collector.
Moving beyond Dragon Ball, Bandai's Booth #3345 is a haven for Godzilla aficionados. Here, fans are treated to the first public display of Bandai's all-new Godzilla toys, which will hit retail stores later this year. The centerpiece of the booth is the Godzilla DefoReal series, featuring a deformed but movie-authentic version of Godzilla from the upcoming "Godzilla Minus One" film. This figure, priced at $110, captures the ferocity of the King of Monsters in a stylized, compact form. Additionally, the booth showcases the 30cm Godzilla PLEX figure, a larger, more detailed replica with rock-like skin textures and jagged dorsal fins, available for $300. The booth's atmosphere is further energized by live appearances from suit actors dressed as Mechagodzilla and Millennium Godzilla, offering fans a unique photo opportunity with these legendary kaiju.
For those who have followed the Gundam franchise over the years, the Gundam Requiem for Vengeance booth (#3829) is a must-visit. This booth offers a blend of nostalgia and new content, anchored by massive statues and exclusive merchandise. Attendees who take part in the booth's interactive survey will be rewarded with an exclusive acrylic keychain, a small but coveted memento of the experience. This booth not only celebrates the enduring legacy of Gundam but also teases what's to come, making it a central hub for both longtime fans and newcomers.
Perhaps the most heartwarming of Bandai’s offerings this year is found at the Tamagotchi booth (#3345). Celebrating the brand's enduring legacy, this booth is a colorful, interactive space where fans can relive the joy of owning a virtual pet. The booth is part of Tamagotchi's World Tour, and it features exclusive items like the Limited Edition Original Tamagotchi Tama Time Travel and the Hello Kitty 50th Anniversary Tamagotchi. These devices are not only functional but are also beautifully packaged in commemorative cases, making them ideal for both play and display. The booth also includes a photobooth where fans can snap pictures with the Kuchipatchi mascot and share their experiences on social media for a chance to win prizes.
Bandai's commitment to creating immersive and memorable experiences is evident in every aspect of their presence at SDCC 2024. Each booth is meticulously designed to not only showcase the latest products but also to engage fans in ways that go beyond simple transactions. Whether through exclusive merchandise, live performances, or interactive activities, Bandai's booths offer something for everyone, making them a must-visit destination at this year’s Comic-Con. For fans of anime, gaming, and collectibles, SDCC 2024 is truly a celebration of the creativity and passion that Bandai Namco continues to bring to the global stage.
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Photos and video : Boris Colletier / Mulderville