We all know those little vending machines for chewing gums from our childhood. They were available at every second corner (at least in germany) and sometimes even featured tiny little toys inbetween the chewing gum balls. Of course it was cheap crap only like rings made out of plastic or little cars. But when the japanese do something like that, they do it right. They have a similiar concept (called Gashapon) with some important differences: The chewing gum is gone for good, the prices range from 100 to 300 yen (1 - 3 USD) and inside you'll find toys only. What makes them really great is the fact, that you'll often find videogame related stuff in them. Little Nintendogs cell phone screen wipers, Capcom Vs. SNK 2 fighter figures and even the Sega History Collection, which is particulary interesting for us since it features a Sega Saturn as well!
Well yes, it basically is still cheap plastic crap, but of much higher quality, than anything that comes out of vending machines across Europe. Take a look at the pictures of the Sega Saturn. It's incredibly detailed and well painted. It has all ports modelled out, even the video and power ones. You can attach and detach the Joypad in its port and even open the lid. It's roughly about 3 cm in size and features lovely stickers with text on it as well. It comes with a Virtua Fighter 2 CD and jewel case, too! Isn't that great? You can often buy complete Sets of them from import shops like Play-Asia or browse ebay for them.
(click the pictures for a bigger view)
