Ichiban Kuji Berserk Prize A: The Black Swordsman
Ichiban Kuji Berserk Prize A: The Black Swordsman Who Won't Back Down
- Series: Ichiban Kuji Berserk "Vows to Counterattack"
- Prize Tier: A Prize (Top Tier)
- Line: MASTERLISE Figure
- Character: Guts in Berserker Armor
- Height: ~20cm (approx. 8 inches)
- Material: PVC, ABS
- Why it's special: Captures Guts at his most intense moment - consumed by the Berserker Armor with soul-stirring detail
- Perfect for: Berserk fans, Ichiban Kuji collectors, dark fantasy enthusiasts
When Bandai Spirits announced the Ichiban Kuji Berserk "Vows to Counterattack" series, collectors knew the Prize A figure would be something special. But this Guts MASTERLISE exceeded all expectations. This isn't just another Berserk figure—it's a moment frozen in time, capturing the Black Swordsman at his most ferocious.
Berserk has captivated dark fantasy fans for decades with its brutal storytelling and unforgettable characters. Guts, the series protagonist, is a warrior who refuses to submit to fate itself. This figure captures him in his Berserker Armor—the cursed armor that amplifies his rage and pushes him beyond human limits.
What makes this Prize A figure stand out is the raw emotion captured in the sculpt. You can feel Guts struggling against the armor's corruption, his clenched teeth and angry expression showing the internal battle between his humanity and the beast consuming him. Let's break down why this is one of the most impressive Ichiban Kuji prizes we've seen.
🎰 What Is Ichiban Kuji?
Ichiban Kuji is Japan's premium lottery system where every ticket guarantees a prize. Think of it as a "no-lose raffle" with multiple prize tiers (A, B, C, etc.), with A Prize being the top-tier collectible. These figures are exclusive to Ichiban Kuji and can't be purchased anywhere else—you can only win them or buy from winners.
Why collectors love Kuji figures: Limited availability, high quality at reasonable entry cost, and the thrill of the draw make them highly sought after.
The MASTERLISE Difference
Bandai's MASTERLISE line represents their premium tier of Ichiban Kuji figures. These aren't your standard prize figures—they feature scale-figure level sculpting and paint detail that rivals more expensive releases.
This Guts figure showcases everything that makes MASTERLISE special: overwhelming presence, museum-quality sculpting, and attention to the smallest details that bring the character to life.
Sculpting That Tells a Story
The Berserker Armor
The armor sculpting is nothing short of spectacular. Every plate, every skull motif, every sharp edge has been meticulously crafted to look both menacing and functional. The armor appears to be transforming, almost alive, as if it's literally consuming Guts.
The beast-like helmet looms ominously, ready to engulf his head completely. This detail captures a pivotal moment from the manga—when Guts teeters on the edge between warrior and monster.
Guts' Expression
This is where the figure truly shines. Guts' face shows pure determination mixed with fury. His clenched teeth, furrowed brow, and intense gaze convey the psychological toll of wielding such cursed power. You can practically hear his labored breathing through the sculpt alone.
The Sword & Pose
The iconic Dragonslayer sword is planted firmly into the ground, acting as both weapon and anchor. The pose suggests Guts is steadying himself, resisting the armor's corruption with sheer willpower. His muscular definition shows through the armor gaps, emphasizing his raw physical power.
Paint Application Excellence
The paint work on this MASTERLISE figure matches the sculpt's quality. The metallic sheen on the armor looks battle-worn and realistic, with subtle weathering that suggests countless fights. The gradient work on the beast helmet transitions from deep black to gray highlights perfectly.
Guts' skin tone has natural shading that brings out the muscle definition. His eyes are sharp and focused—no bleeding or imprecision in the small details. Even the Dragonslayer has realistic metallic paint that looks heavy and formidable.
Technical Specifications
| Series | Ichiban Kuji Berserk "Vows to Counterattack" |
| Prize Tier | A Prize (Highest Tier) |
| Product Line | MASTERLISE Figure |
| Character | Guts (Berserker Armor) |
| Franchise | Berserk |
| Height | ~20cm (approx. 8 inches) |
| Material | PVC, ABS |
| Manufacturer | Bandai Spirits |
| Release | October/November 2025 |
| Original Lottery Price | ¥850 per ticket (~$6 USD) |
✓ What Makes This Essential
- Museum-quality sculpting that captures Guts' internal struggle
- MASTERLISE premium finish rivals scale figures
- Iconic Berserker Armor moment perfectly executed
- Excellent paint application with realistic weathering
- Dynamic pose with strong visual presence
- Exclusive to Ichiban Kuji - true collector's item
- Stable base design supports the figure perfectly
✗ Things to Consider
- Limited availability as a lottery prize
- Aftermarket prices can be steep for A Prizes
- Size is smaller than typical scale figures
- Some collectors prefer Guts without the helmet transformation
Why This Figure Matters
This isn't just a great Berserk figure—it's one of the best representations of Guts' internal struggle ever produced. The Berserker Armor arc is pivotal in the manga, showing Guts pushing past his human limits at great cost. This figure captures that darkness perfectly.
For Berserk collectors, this is a must-have centerpiece. The MASTERLISE quality means it can stand alongside your premium scale figures without looking out of place. The emotional weight of the sculpt makes it conversation-worthy in any collection.
Our Final Verdict
An absolute masterpiece from the MASTERLISE line. This Guts figure captures everything that makes Berserk legendary—raw power, internal conflict, and refusing to submit to fate. Whether you're a hardcore Berserk fan or appreciate dark fantasy collectibles, this Prize A figure delivers premium quality. The only downside is the limited availability, but that's exactly what makes Ichiban Kuji special.
💡 Display & Collection Tips
- Lighting: Use dramatic side lighting to emphasize the armor details and create shadows that enhance the dark atmosphere
- Pairs with: The B Prize Skull Knight and C Prize Femto from the same Kuji series for a complete Berserk display
- Shelf position: Give this figure center stage—the pose and presence demand it
- Protection: Consider a clear acrylic case to protect from dust while showing off every angle
- Background: Dark or neutral backgrounds make the figure pop without competing for attention
About Ichiban Kuji Collectibility
Prize A figures from popular series like Berserk tend to appreciate in value on the aftermarket. The combination of limited lottery distribution and high demand from both Berserk fans and Ichiban Kuji collectors creates scarcity.
While we can't predict future values, previous A Prize MASTERLISE figures from sought-after franchises have maintained or increased their value over time, especially for series with devoted fanbases like Berserk.
Other Prizes in This Kuji Series
The "Vows to Counterattack" Ichiban Kuji features several other incredible prizes:
- B Prize: Skull Knight MASTERLISE Figure - The mysterious ally in his full armor
- C Prize: Femto MASTERLISE Figure - The fallen Griffith in his God Hand form
- Last One Prize: Skull Knight (Mounted) - An exclusive variant only for the final ticket
All three MASTERLISE figures feature the same premium quality and would create an amazing Berserk collection centerpiece together.
Secure This Figure Now
💬 Join the Conversation
Are you a Berserk fan? What do you think of this Guts figure? Have you collected other Ichiban Kuji prizes? Drop a comment below and share your thoughts!