Fujimi of Japan has released of FUJ42160, a “Chibi-Maru” version of the Imperial Japanese Navy Battleship Yamato.

According to Hobbylink Japan: “We've seen Egg Planes for years now...is this the first Egg Ship? Whatever you call it, it certainly is a scrunchy but detailed version of the largest battleship of WWII!.” The little battlewagon comes molded in grey and red plactic and can be completed either waterline or full-hull.

This “Chibi-Maru” (which means something like “short, round cute person”) version of the Yamato was the first of many Chibi-Maru ships released. The list includes so far:

Battleship Yamato
Battleship Musashi
Battleship Kongo
Battleship Haruna
Battleship Kirishima
Battleship Hiei
Battleship Ise
Battleship Hyuga
Aircraft Carrier Shokaku
Aircraft Carrier Zuikaku
Aircraft Carrier Akagi
Aircraft Carrier Kaga
Cruiser/Carrier Mogami
Destroyer Yukikaze
Destroyer Akizuki

In addition, there are photoetch upgrade parts, wood decks, spare aircraft, even a special display base available to fit out your Imperial Japanese Fleet of Relentless Cuteness.

This alternative Yamato can be ordered for ¥1,440 (approximately US$11.00) from Hobbylink Japan).

http://www.hlj.com/product/FUJ42160/Nav