Dixon

25mm Samurai

review by Lance McKenzie

The Dixon line of Samurai has to be the most complete listing of 25mm figures representing one army-list (W.R.G.) currently available. These figures are suitable for the early/late medieval, as well as Renaissance, periods. Many are cast with separate weapons, bowcases, and back-banners. An excellent array of accessory equipment is available, includingall needed weapons and banners, a pack mule, and a grisly yari with impaled head.

Incidentally, if you are into "head-games", then DSS-1 mounted Samurai with severed-head collection is recommended. Quality of metal and casting is superb. Marketed as "25mm", Dixon Samurai are large when compared to most other figures, with Essex being a notable exception. Besides the quality, large size, and variety of these figures, one other major characteristic sets them apart. The style of design is unlike that of any other manufacturer, to my knowledge. This style incorporates exaggerated bodily features: heads, arms, hands, along with stiff poses, generally emotionless faces, and precise detailing, all of which lends these figures an almost "chessmen" quality. Whether or not this style is acceptable is certainly a matter of individual taste. Even though many figures exhibit vigorous poses, they appear as if they are frozen in mid-action. This "chessmen" style is notable since it serves to remind the gamer that these are, in fact, merely pieces in an abstract game. In summary, the great variety, quality, and available accessories make Dixon Samurai a definite consideration to anyone building a Japanese army, or as excellent character figures for the several role-playing games available.

One can view these figures in battle-array and say, "now, those are Samurai!"

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