UofMUSCLE.com – M.U.S.C.L.E. Figures from Mattel

M.U.S.C.L.E. C.A.R.S.
By Alien Robot Monster

Objective/Subjective:
It is two pieces. The color closely matches the original Flesh M.U.S.C.L.E. color. They are two original sculpts. It was created by Alien Robot Monster. It cost $30. Those are the points that are unequivocally objective.

However, I believe my subjective opinion is something that everyone would agree support. And if everyone, agrees, then can it be anything but unbiased and fair?

I honestly believe that this figure is so extraordinary that the it is impossible to be subjective. It is a fact, not opinion, that this is an instant classic custom M.U.S.C.L.E. figure.

Packaging in reviews is often overlooked – and for good reason. It often becomes a non-factor once the toy is opened. Plus most custom packaging is not designed for retail display, which makes displaying a sealed custom figure more difficult. This packaging deserves praise for four reasons: (1) it is easy to display sealed; (2) it is re-sealable clamshell; (3) the packaging would actually look nice on the shelf; and (3) the packaging perfectly fits the figure. That perfect fit really allows for the owner to select the perfect viewing angle.

As wonderful as the figure set looks in the packaging the set begs to be set free.

Set: Angle 1

Set: Angle 2

Set: Angle 3

Set: Angle 4

This review is not as timely as originally intended. It sat unfinished for too long. The only positive to come from this delay was that most pictures shared on social media predominantly featured the set together.

It is too easy to think of the set as a singular figure. It is important to appreciate the workmanship that allows these two pieces of the set to work independently too. The two pieces look glorious together and apart.

The last part of this review might be the most subjective part.

I believe the car is the masterful part of the combo. There is enough reference material to create a Muscleman in almost any position and scale. I’m not suggesting that everybody could do it, but the amount of images available would make it easier for a person with the necessary skillset.

Creating a classic “Muscle Car” in a way that fits the M.U.S.C.L.E./Kinnikuman style is much more difficult. It could have been too car-focused or too cartoony. The car is in a perfect, difficult to pinpoint, umami-like M.U.S.C.L.E./Kinnikuman style. It is so perfect, that it seems impossible to imagine being able to achieve the perfect balance a second time.

I have always said not to judge a figure until you hold it in your hand. When I saw this figure for the first time I was blown away. I instantly loved it. I loved it so much that once I ordered it I was imagining what I could complain about in the review. There had to be something to detract from the figure; nothing could be so perfect. I was wrong. It is perfect. That is the reason it is an instant classic.

If you do not own this figure set, then make sure you get it. As of writing it is sold-out. I hope the original M.U.S.C.L.E. Flesh is re-released, but it should be purchased in any color.

For more information about Alien Robot Monster, check out these links:
– Alien Robot Monster Store
– Alien Robot Monster on Instagram
– Alien Robot Monster on Facebook