Why this matters
The anime figure bootleg industry is worth billions. Fakes range from obvious garbage to disturbingly close replicas. The difference between a $150 authentic Nendoroid and a $25 bootleg isn't always visible in a product photo โ but it's very visible on your shelf.
Check the box
The box is your first line of defense. Bootleg boxes are almost always wrong in ways you can spot if you know what to look for.
- Blurry or pixelated images โ bootleggers use photos of the real box, blown up and reprinted
- Colors that are slightly off โ too saturated, too dark, or washed out
- Thin or flimsy cardboard that bends easily
- Spelling errors or weird font choices on the text
- Missing or fake barcodes โ scan them, fake ones don't resolve
- No licensing info or manufacturer logo on the back
- Excessive tape on the blister pack โ authentic ones use minimal tape
Check the paint
This is where bootlegs fall apart the hardest. Manufacturing quality control on authentic figures is strict โ bootleg factories don't have that.
- Paint bleeding outside the lines โ especially on eyes, hair, and small details
- Rough or bumpy texture where it should be smooth
- Color doesn't match the product photos โ skin tone is wrong, hair is the wrong shade
- Visible seam lines that weren't sanded or finished
- Glossy finish where it should be matte, or vice versa
- Face looks 'off' โ eyes slightly different sizes, mouth crooked
Check the weight
Authentic figures use higher quality PVC and ABS plastic. Bootlegs use cheap, lightweight material.
- Noticeably lighter than expected for the size
- Feels hollow or cheap when tapped
- Doesn't sit firmly on its base โ wobbles or leans
- Base feels flimsy or poorly molded
Check the smell
This one sounds weird but it's real. Bootleg figures often have a strong chemical smell straight out of the box.
- Strong chemical or plastic smell when you open the box
- Authentic figures have minimal to no smell
- The stronger the smell, the cheaper the materials used
Check the price
If the deal seems too good to be true, it is. Period.
- Price is 50-70% below the normal retail or aftermarket value
- Free shipping from China on a figure that normally costs $100+
- Seller has hundreds of units of a 'rare' or 'limited' figure
- No clear photos of the actual item โ only stock images
Check authentication marks
Many manufacturers include anti-counterfeit measures. Know what to look for on your specific brand.
- Good Smile Company uses holographic stickers with a scratch-off verification code
- Bandai figures have a specific circular sticker with the Bandai logo
- Kotobukiya uses a barcode system on their packaging
- If the authentication sticker is missing, blurry, or doesn't match known examples, be suspicious
Where to buy safely
Generally safe
- Tokyofishmarket (obviously)
- AmiAmi, Solaris Japan, HobbyLink Japan
- Good Smile Company online shop
- Official manufacturer stores
- Established convention vendors with a reputation
High bootleg risk
- Random Amazon/eBay/AliExpress/Wish sellers with no reviews
- Social media marketplace sellers with stock photos only
- Any listing significantly below market price
- Stores with no return policy or authentication guarantee
When you're not sure
If you already own a figure and you're not sure if it's authentic, there are ways to find out.