Raul Delapena Setiawan
TOKYO, JAPAN — June 15, 2026 — In a landmark collaboration that bridges the gap between digital virtual artistry and physical craftsmanship, COVER Corporation has officially unveiled the “Artist Outfit” collectible figure of Ninomae Ina’nis. A cornerstone of the hololive English talent roster, the Priestess of the Ancient Ones is being immortalized in 1/6 scale, thanks to a partnership with the esteemed Gleaeastudio. This release marks a significant milestone for hololive production, signaling a strategic shift toward high-end, gallery-quality merchandise that caters to the growing demand for premium collectibles among the global fan base.
A Masterpiece of Sculpting: The Artistry Behind the Figure
Designed by the acclaimed sculptor Yuzu, the Ninomae Ina’nis collectible is not merely a figure; it is a meticulously rendered translation of virtual character design into physical space. The “Artist Outfit,” which has become iconic among the “Takodachi” (Ina’nis’s dedicated fan base), has been recreated with an obsessive focus on material texture and structural integrity.
The figure captures the essence of the artist-priestess in a dynamic, creative pose. Her right hand, poised with a paintbrush, suggests a moment of inspiration, while the paint on her palette features deliberate, delicate color layering that mimics the appearance of real-life oil paints. The designers have invested significant time in the tactile details of her ensemble: the soft, velvet-like texture of her beret, the subtle, sophisticated drape of her long coat, and the intricate plaid patterns woven into her over-knee socks.
Perhaps most striking is the integration of the character’s hallmark aesthetic elements. The pink bag, emblazoned with a signature Takodachi motif, serves as a vibrant visual anchor against the deep, muted tones of her artist’s attire. Every element, from the wooden heels of her leather shoes to the precise paintwork on her expressive face, has undergone rigorous quality control protocols to ensure the final product meets the high standards expected by collectors.
Chronology of the Launch: From Digital Concept to Physical Reality
The rollout for this figure is structured to respect both local demand and the logistical complexities of a worldwide release.
- June 14, 2026: Pre-orders officially opened for the Taiwan market exclusively via the crowdfunding and e-commerce platform zeczec. This early-bird phase is slated to run through September 30, 2026.
- Post-June 2026: COVER Corporation has confirmed that preparations for an overseas launch are currently underway. While international fans must wait for specific dates, the partnership with CAPSULE’s e-commerce platform, Cmer, is set to facilitate the global distribution of the figure.
- Late 2026 and Beyond: Following the close of the pre-order window, production will move into its final manufacturing phase, with the figures expected to ship to collectors in the months following the conclusion of the sales cycle.
Supporting Data: Editions, Pricing, and Exclusive Perks
COVER Corporation has structured the release into two distinct tiers, catering to both casual collectors and “completionist” enthusiasts.
Standard Edition (NT$ 8,690)
The Standard Edition provides the core experience, including:
- The main Ninomae Ina’nis figure.
- Signature accessories: The artist’s palette, her iconic beret, and the AO-Chan tablet.
- A custom standard base for display.
Deluxe Edition (NT$ 12,500)
For those seeking the definitive “Priestess” display, the Deluxe Edition adds:
- An exclusive LED Hologram Fan Backdrop, designed to simulate the ethereal, magical atmosphere associated with the character.
- A premium, platform-specific bonus item.
Platform-Exclusive Incentives:
The collaboration with zeczec and Cmer includes unique bonuses to reward fans based on their region and purchase platform:
- zeczec (Taiwan): Purchases of the Deluxe Edition include a “Matching-Scale Illustration Acrylic Stand,” perfect for displaying alongside the main figure.
- Cmer (Overseas): Purchases of the Deluxe Edition include a bespoke “Acrylic Dining Buddy,” a charming, functional accessory that brings a touch of Ina’nis to the collector’s personal space.
Official Perspectives: Bridging the Virtual and the Tangible
In a statement accompanying the announcement, representatives from COVER Corporation emphasized that this project was driven by a desire to honor the character’s creative identity. “Ninomae Ina’nis is an artist in both lore and personality,” a spokesperson noted. “To create a figure that captures that creative spirit—not just her appearance—required a sculptor who understands the nuance of form and texture. By collaborating with Gleaeastudio, we have managed to create something that feels like an extension of her virtual presence, a tangible piece of her lore that fans can hold in their hands.”
The decision to utilize zeczec for the initial launch reflects the significant, highly engaged fan base in the Taiwan region, while the partnership with Cmer serves as the infrastructure for the company’s broader, long-term commitment to global merchandise accessibility.
Implications for the Collectible Market
The release of the Ninomae Ina’nis “Artist Outfit” figure is indicative of a broader trend within the VTuber industry. As characters become more integrated into popular culture, the demand for "merchandise as fine art" has increased. Collectors are no longer satisfied with simple plastic figures; they seek high-fidelity statues that serve as centerpiece displays in their homes.
1. The Rise of "Prestige" VTuber Merch
This collaboration sets a new benchmark for the quality of hololive merchandise. By moving away from mass-produced, lower-cost items toward limited-edition, high-detail collectibles, COVER Corporation is positioning its intellectual properties alongside established anime and gaming franchises in the high-end hobbyist market.
2. Logistical Evolution
The two-pronged approach (zeczec for Taiwan, Cmer for international) highlights the evolving nature of e-commerce for Japanese entertainment companies. By localizing the pre-order process, COVER minimizes the friction often associated with cross-border shipping, effectively building localized "hubs" that make the acquisition process smoother for the end-user.
3. Cultural Impact of the "Artist" Identity
By focusing on the "Artist" persona, the figure leans into the unique character design of Ina’nis. It validates the lore of the character—that she is a creator, a priestess, and a student of the arts. This narrative-driven approach to merchandise design is likely to resonate deeply with fans who have followed the character’s growth on platforms like YouTube and Twitter.
Final Considerations for Prospective Collectors
As with any high-end collectible involving hand-painted craftsmanship, COVER Corporation has noted that final acceptance standards will be evaluated based on official licensing and artistic criteria. Because each piece requires individual attention during the painting and assembly process, fans are encouraged to view these figures as unique, artisanal items rather than mass-produced replicas.
For international fans, the wait for the Cmer launch will undoubtedly be met with high anticipation. The "Acrylic Dining Buddy" exclusive to the Cmer platform is expected to be a major draw, adding a layer of collectibility that rewards the patience of the global audience.
As the pre-order window progresses through September, the industry will be watching to see how quickly the limited slots for these figures are filled. For fans of Ninomae Ina’nis and the wider hololive community, this figure represents more than just a purchase; it is a celebration of the creative connection between a virtual artist and the audience that inspires her.
For the latest updates on international shipping, pre-order start dates for the Cmer platform, and additional product photography, fans are encouraged to follow official hololive production social media channels and monitor the Cmer website closely.
Dwi Wanna
Nana Wu
