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Tokyo, Japan – June 4, 2026 – Fans of the critically acclaimed Rebuild of Evangelion series are in for a treat as Good Smile Company, in collaboration with Khara, Inc., has unveiled two highly anticipated additions to their Pop Up Parade L-size figure line. Asuka Shikinami Langley and Rei Ayanami, two of the franchise’s most beloved pilots, are set to make a splash in their iconic swimsuit designs, standing at an impressive approximately nine inches tall. These new releases represent a fresh take on the popular "Beach Queens" concept, offering collectors meticulously crafted figures that capture the essence of these iconic characters in a relaxed, summery setting.
The Pop Up Parade L-size figures are designed to provide high-quality, collectible figures at an accessible price point and scale. This latest offering promises to deliver the same commitment to detail and aesthetic appeal that fans have come to expect from Good Smile Company. Both Asuka and Rei will be available as individual purchases, with no immediate bundle option announced, allowing enthusiasts to acquire their favorite pilot or complete the set at their own pace.
A Closer Look at the New Beach Queens Figures
The new Asuka Shikinami Langley figure features the fiery pilot in a vibrant red bikini. Her characteristic confidence and determined gaze are expertly captured, hinting at the underlying complexity of her character even in a more casual depiction. The design emphasizes her youthful energy and spirited personality, making her a striking addition to any collection.
Complementing Asuka’s energetic portrayal, the Rei Ayanami figure showcases the enigmatic pilot in a serene white one-piece swimsuit. Her characteristic quietude and ethereal presence are brought to life, offering a more contemplative and graceful representation. The simplicity of her attire allows her subtle expressions and posture to convey a sense of calm introspection, a hallmark of her character.
Both figures are static, meaning they are designed as display pieces without interchangeable parts or accessories. This focus on a singular, well-executed pose allows for a clean and elegant presentation, highlighting the sculpt and paintwork of each character. The approximately nine-inch scale (around 220mm) makes them substantial additions to display shelves, offering a noticeable presence without being overwhelmingly large.
Chronological Context: A Legacy of Evangelion Collectibles
The release of these new Beach Queens figures is not an isolated event, but rather a continuation of a rich history of Evangelion merchandise, particularly focusing on swimsuit-clad renditions of its main heroines. Good Smile Company has a proven track record of producing high-quality figures from the Evangelion franchise, and the Pop Up Parade line has become a popular choice for collectors seeking both quality and value.
Previously, in August 2025, the Pop Up Parade line also saw the release of Asuka and Rei in swimsuit variants. These earlier figures, while sharing the "Beach Queens" theme, appear to be distinct from the upcoming L-size releases, suggesting new sculpts and potentially different poses or attire details. This indicates a sustained interest from both the manufacturers and the fanbase in exploring these characters in less combat-oriented, more relatable scenarios.
Looking further back, collectors may recall the 1/10 scale variants of both Asuka and Rei released in 2016. These earlier figures offered a different scale and aesthetic, showcasing the evolution of collectible figure manufacturing and design over the years. The consistent release of such merchandise across different scales and styles underscores the enduring popularity and cultural impact of the Evangelion series.
The "Beach Queens" moniker itself has been a recurring theme in anime figure lines, with characters from various popular series, including Fate/stay Night, also receiving similar swimsuit-themed releases. This suggests a deliberate strategy by manufacturers to tap into the broader appeal of these characters beyond their typical on-screen personas, offering fans a different dimension to appreciate.
Supporting Data and Release Details
The upcoming Pop Up Parade L-size Rebuild of Evangelion Beach Queens Asuka Shikinami Langley and Rei Ayanami figures are poised to be significant releases for collectors worldwide.
Pre-order Period: Pre-orders for these figures are scheduled to close on August 26, 2026. This provides a considerable window for interested fans to secure their desired figures.
Japanese Release: The figures are slated for release in Japan in January 2027. The retail price in Japan is set at ¥8,800 (approximately $57.99 USD at current exchange rates, though this can fluctuate).
Worldwide Release: The global release is scheduled for the second quarter (Q2) of 2027. In the United States, the figures will be priced at $57.99 USD. This pricing strategy indicates an effort to maintain consistency across major markets.
Availability: As mentioned, there is no bundle option available at this time, meaning each figure must be purchased individually. This allows for flexibility in purchasing decisions, catering to fans who may only be interested in one of the characters or wish to acquire them separately.
The figures are being produced by Good Smile Company, a renowned manufacturer of anime and manga merchandise, and are officially licensed by Khara, Inc., the studio behind the Rebuild of Evangelion films. This ensures authenticity and adherence to the original character designs.
Official Responses and Manufacturer Insights
While specific direct quotes from manufacturers regarding these particular figures are not yet available, the strategy behind the Pop Up Parade line speaks volumes. Good Smile Company has consistently aimed to democratize the figure collecting hobby by offering high-quality, well-designed products at accessible price points. The L-size designation signifies a commitment to providing larger, more impactful figures within this accessible framework.
The collaboration with Khara, Inc. is crucial, ensuring that the character likenesses and overall aesthetic remain true to the Rebuild of Evangelion vision. This partnership is a testament to the enduring appeal of the franchise and the ongoing demand for new merchandise that resonates with its dedicated fanbase.
The decision to release these figures in swimsuit attire can be viewed as a nod to the enduring popularity of this particular aesthetic within anime culture. It offers fans a different, more relaxed interpretation of characters often associated with intense action and emotional turmoil. This diversification of product offerings allows for a broader appeal, catering to various collector preferences.
Implications for Collectors and the Franchise
The announcement of these new Pop Up Parade L-size Beach Queens figures has several implications for both dedicated Evangelion collectors and the broader anime merchandise market.
For Collectors:
- Expanded Options: The release provides long-time fans with new opportunities to expand their collections, offering a fresh take on beloved characters. The larger scale of the L-size figures might appeal to those who prefer more substantial display pieces.
- Accessibility: The Pop Up Parade line’s commitment to affordability means that these figures are likely to be within reach for a wider range of fans, potentially attracting newer collectors to the franchise’s merchandise.
- Display Versatility: While not designed for interaction, the static poses and individual nature of the figures allow for flexible display arrangements. Fans can choose to showcase them together or separately, integrating them into diverse collection setups.
For the Franchise:
- Sustained Relevance: The continued production of Evangelion merchandise, especially for the Rebuild series, indicates the franchise’s sustained cultural relevance and commercial viability. These releases help maintain fan engagement between major media events.
- Broadened Appeal: By exploring different themes and aesthetics, such as the "Beach Queens" concept, the merchandise can attract a wider audience, including those who may be drawn to the character designs and artistic quality independently of deep lore engagement.
- Economic Impact: The sales generated by these figures contribute to the overall economic ecosystem surrounding the Evangelion franchise, supporting the creators, manufacturers, and retailers involved.
The upcoming January 2027 release in Japan and the Q2 2027 global launch for the Pop Up Parade L-size Asuka and Rei swimsuit figures are eagerly awaited. As pre-orders close on August 26, 2026, fans have ample time to prepare for the arrival of these striking new collectibles, further cementing the enduring legacy of the Evangelion saga. The anime series itself remains available for streaming on Netflix, and the Rebuild of Evangelion movies can be found on platforms like Amazon, offering continuous access to the source material that inspires such dedicated fan engagement.
Suro Senen
Ammar Sabilarrohman
