This specific action figure represents a popular character from the Dragon Ball franchise in a powerful, iconic form. As a retailer-exclusive item, it signifies a collaboration between a toy manufacturer specializing in highly detailed, poseable figures and a major retail chain. This type of collaboration often results in unique product offerings designed to appeal to collectors and fans.
The limited availability inherent in such exclusive releases often contributes to increased desirability and potential value within the collecting community. It can also serve as a strategic marketing tool, driving traffic to specific retailers and bolstering brand loyalty. Exclusivity can generate excitement among collectors and encourage engagement with the broader franchise.
This piece explores the confluence of factors that make such items desirable, the market forces that shape their value, and the wider implications for the collecting hobby. Further examination will consider the manufacturing process, character design choices, and the cultural impact of the source material.
1. Dragon Stars Series
The Dragon Stars series serves as the foundation for this exclusive Super Saiyan Goku figure. Understanding the series’ characteristics is crucial for comprehending the figure’s value and appeal within the collector market. The series sets the standard for quality, articulation, and design, influencing the perception and desirability of individual releases.
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Scale and Articulation
Dragon Stars figures typically adhere to a consistent scale, allowing for seamless integration within displays and dioramas. The series is also known for its extensive articulation, permitting a wide range of dynamic poses, mimicking iconic fight scenes and stances from the Dragon Ball universe. This poseability significantly contributes to the interactive and display potential of the figures, including the Target-exclusive Super Saiyan Goku.
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Character Selection and Detail
The series covers a broad spectrum of characters from the Dragon Ball franchise, spanning various sagas and transformations. This inclusivity caters to a wide range of collector interests and allows for the creation of comprehensive displays. The detailed sculpting and paint applications strive for accuracy to the source material, enhancing the figures’ collectible appeal. The exclusive Super Saiyan Goku benefits from this attention to detail, accurately representing the character’s iconic transformation.
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Packaging and Presentation
Dragon Stars figures are typically presented in collector-friendly packaging, often featuring character art and details about the figure. This packaging contributes to the overall presentation and can influence the long-term value, particularly for unopened figures. The exclusive Goku likely features unique packaging elements highlighting its Target exclusivity, further differentiating it from standard releases.
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Market Value and Collectibility
The Dragon Stars series has established itself within the action figure collecting community. Figures within the series, especially exclusives like the Super Saiyan Goku, can appreciate in value over time due to limited availability and continued demand. The series itself lends credibility and inherent value to individual releases, making them attractive to both casual fans and serious collectors.
The Target-exclusive Super Saiyan Goku figure benefits from the established reputation of the Dragon Stars series. The series’ emphasis on articulation, detail, and collector-focused design contributes to the figure’s desirability and perceived value. This connection to a respected and popular line enhances the figure’s significance within the broader collecting landscape.
2. Super Saiyan Goku
Super Saiyan Goku represents a pivotal transformation within the Dragon Ball universe and a significant driver of interest in merchandise like the Dragon Stars Target exclusive figure. This iconic form holds substantial cultural weight, impacting the figure’s collectibility and market value. Examining the character’s significance provides context for the figure’s appeal.
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Power and Transformation
The Super Saiyan transformation marks a dramatic increase in Goku’s power and signifies key narrative moments within the Dragon Ball saga. This visually striking transformation, characterized by golden hair and heightened energy, is instantly recognizable and resonates deeply with fans. The Dragon Stars figure capitalizes on this visual impact, recreating the iconic look for collectors.
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Cultural Impact and Recognition
Super Saiyan Goku has transcended the realm of anime and manga, becoming a widely recognized symbol within popular culture. This widespread recognition contributes to the broad appeal of related merchandise, attracting both dedicated fans and those familiar with the character’s iconic imagery. The Target exclusive figure benefits from this established cultural presence.
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Collectibility and Rarity
Merchandise featuring Super Saiyan Goku, particularly limited-edition or exclusive items like the Dragon Stars figure, is highly sought after by collectors. The transformation’s significance within the narrative and its visual appeal contribute to this desirability. The Target exclusivity further amplifies this demand, creating a sense of urgency and potential for increased value.
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Character Development and Narrative Significance
The Super Saiyan transformation represents a crucial stage in Goku’s character development, symbolizing his growth, resilience, and determination. This narrative weight adds depth to the character and enhances the emotional connection fans feel. The Dragon Stars figure serves as a tangible representation of this pivotal moment in Goku’s journey.
The Target exclusive Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku figure encapsulates the character’s significance within the Dragon Ball narrative and broader popular culture. The figure’s value is intrinsically linked to the iconic nature of the Super Saiyan transformation, making it a desirable piece for collectors seeking to own a tangible representation of this powerful and recognizable form.
3. Target Exclusivity
Target exclusivity plays a crucial role in shaping the perceived value and market dynamics of the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku figure. This retail strategy creates artificial scarcity, increasing demand among collectors. By limiting distribution to a single retailer, the manufacturer generates a sense of urgency and exclusivity, potentially driving higher prices in the secondary market. This exclusivity differentiates the figure from standard retail releases, adding a premium to its perceived value. Retailer-exclusive collectibles often become focal points within collecting communities, fostering discussion and driving engagement.
Examples of similar retailer-exclusive strategies demonstrate the effectiveness of this approach. Limited-edition video game consoles bundled with specific retailers, or variant comic book covers only available at certain stores, often command higher prices and generate significant collector interest. This precedent underscores the impact of exclusivity on perceived value and market behavior. The Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku figure follows this established pattern, leveraging Target exclusivity to enhance its desirability.
Understanding the impact of Target exclusivity on this particular figure provides valuable insight into the broader collectibles market. It highlights the interplay between supply, demand, and perceived value, demonstrating how exclusivity can significantly influence market dynamics. This understanding empowers collectors to make informed decisions, considering factors beyond the inherent qualities of the figure itself. Recognizing the role of retailer exclusivity in shaping market value is crucial for navigating the complexities of the collectible landscape.
4. Figure Articulation
Figure articulation significantly impacts the collectibility and playability of action figures, especially within the Dragon Stars line, including the Target-exclusive Super Saiyan Goku. A highly articulated figure allows collectors to recreate dynamic poses and scenes from the source material, enhancing the interactive experience and display options. The range of motion afforded by well-designed joints influences the figure’s ability to capture the energy and dynamism of characters like Super Saiyan Goku. This poseability differentiates figures from static statues, increasing their appeal to collectors who value dynamic presentation.
Consider other lines of action figures. Those with limited articulation often feel stiff and lifeless, restricting display options and hindering the ability to replicate iconic poses. In contrast, figures with extensive articulation, like those in the Dragon Stars series, offer a greater degree of customization and poseability. This feature enables collectors to express creativity and personalize displays, showcasing characters in action-oriented stances. The Super Saiyan Goku figure benefits from this design philosophy, allowing collectors to showcase the character’s dynamic fighting style.
The practical significance of articulation extends beyond mere aesthetics. It adds a layer of interaction and engagement, allowing collectors to manipulate the figure and explore its full potential. This interactivity enhances the overall experience of owning and displaying the figure. For the Target-exclusive Super Saiyan Goku, articulation allows for the recreation of iconic attacks and poses, such as the Kamehameha, further connecting the physical object to the character’s on-screen presence. The figure becomes more than a static representation; it transforms into a dynamic, poseable embodiment of the character, maximizing its appeal to collectors and fans.
5. Collectible Packaging
Collectible packaging significantly influences the desirability and long-term value of items like the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive. Packaging serves a dual purpose: protecting the figure and enhancing its presentation. Collector-focused packaging often incorporates features like window displays, character art, and specialized finishes, transforming the packaging itself into a desirable element. This elevates the figure from a simple toy to a collectible item, influencing purchasing decisions and contributing to long-term preservation. Intact, attractive packaging contributes to a figure’s resale value, especially for limited-edition or exclusive releases.
Consider the impact of damaged or unattractive packaging. A dented box or torn blister pack significantly diminishes a collectible’s appeal, even if the figure itself remains pristine. This demonstrates the crucial role packaging plays in preserving value and perceived quality. Examples include limited-edition video game releases with special collector’s editions featuring steelbooks or unique outer boxes. These premium packaging options often command higher prices and are more actively sought after by collectors. This underscores the importance of packaging as a key component of the overall collectible experience.
The practical significance of collectible packaging extends beyond mere aesthetics. It safeguards the figure from damage, preserving its condition over time. This preservation is essential for maintaining value and ensuring the figure remains a desirable collectible. For the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive, the packaging reinforces its limited availability and special status. A well-designed package contributes to the overall presentation and reinforces the value proposition of the exclusive release. This understanding empowers collectors to appreciate the multifaceted role of packaging in the collectible market, influencing both present enjoyment and future value.
6. Potential Resale Value
Potential resale value represents a significant consideration for collectors of limited-edition items like the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive. Several interconnected factors influence this potential, creating a complex interplay of market forces, perceived value, and collector demand. Understanding these factors is crucial for assessing the long-term investment potential of such collectibles.
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Exclusivity and Limited Availability
The Target exclusivity of this Super Saiyan Goku figure inherently limits its availability. Restricted supply often drives demand within the collector market, potentially increasing resale value over time. Similar examples include limited-edition video game consoles or retailer-exclusive variant comic books, which often appreciate in value due to their scarcity. This scarcity principle directly impacts the potential resale value of the Dragon Stars figure.
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Character Popularity and Iconic Status
Super Saiyan Goku’s iconic status within the Dragon Ball franchise and broader popular culture contributes to the desirability of related merchandise. This inherent demand further influences potential resale value, as collectors actively seek items featuring popular characters in recognizable forms. The enduring popularity of characters like Spider-Man or Batman, and the corresponding high value of their key comic book appearances, exemplifies this phenomenon. The Super Saiyan Goku figure benefits from similar market dynamics.
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Condition and Packaging
The condition of both the figure and its packaging plays a critical role in determining resale value. A pristine, unopened figure in undamaged packaging commands a higher price than a loose, incomplete, or damaged figure. This principle applies across various collectible markets, from vintage toys to trading cards. Preserving the figure’s original condition and packaging maximizes its potential resale value.
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Market Trends and Collector Demand
Fluctuations in market trends and collector demand can significantly impact resale value. Shifts in popularity, new releases within the same line, or broader economic factors can influence prices. Observing trends within similar collectible markets, such as vintage action figures or limited-edition sneakers, provides insight into the potential volatility of resale values. Understanding these market forces is crucial for assessing the long-term investment potential of the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku figure.
These interconnected factors contribute to the overall potential resale value of the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive. Analyzing these elements provides valuable context for collectors seeking to understand the market dynamics surrounding this specific figure and similar limited-edition collectibles. By considering exclusivity, character popularity, condition, and market trends, collectors can make informed decisions regarding acquisition and potential future value.
7. Limited Availability
Limited availability directly influences the desirability and market value of collectibles, exemplified by the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive. Manufactured in finite quantities and distributed through a single retailer, this figure embodies artificial scarcity. This strategy creates a sense of urgency among collectors, driving demand and potentially increasing prices in the secondary market. Limited production runs generate inherent exclusivity, differentiating the figure from standard retail releases and contributing to its perceived value. This scarcity principle operates across various collectible markets, from limited-edition sneakers to rare trading cards, demonstrating its consistent impact on desirability and price.
Real-world examples illustrate the impact of limited availability. Consider the Beanie Baby craze of the 1990s, where manufactured scarcity drove speculative frenzy and inflated prices for certain plush toys. Similarly, limited-edition video game consoles bundled with specific retailers often command higher prices and generate significant collector interest. The Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive follows this established pattern, leveraging limited availability to enhance its appeal and potential market value. The figures exclusivity becomes a key selling point, distinguishing it from readily available alternatives.
Understanding the impact of limited availability empowers collectors to make informed decisions. Recognizing the intentional scarcity created by exclusive retail partnerships provides context for market fluctuations and potential price increases. This understanding also highlights the importance of timely acquisition, as limited-edition items may become increasingly difficult and expensive to obtain over time. For collectors, recognizing the influence of limited availability becomes crucial for navigating the complexities of the collectible landscape and strategically acquiring desired items. This principle underscores the dynamic relationship between scarcity, demand, and value within the collectibles market.
8. Bandai Manufacturing
Bandai’s manufacturing expertise plays a crucial role in the production of the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive figure. Their reputation for quality, attention to detail, and experience in producing highly articulated figures directly influences the collectible’s perceived value and desirability. Understanding Bandai’s manufacturing process provides valuable context for appreciating the figure’s construction and its place within the broader collector market. Bandai’s involvement lends credibility and assures collectors of a certain level of quality, impacting purchasing decisions and long-term value.
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Quality Control and Materials
Bandai employs rigorous quality control measures throughout its manufacturing process, ensuring consistent product quality and durability. The selection of materials, from the type of plastic used for the figure’s body to the paint applications, contributes to the overall feel and longevity of the collectible. Examples include the use of durable ABS plastic for figure construction and detailed paint applications to replicate character-specific features accurately. This commitment to quality enhances the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku figure’s perceived value and ensures its long-term collectibility.
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Articulation Engineering and Design
Bandai’s expertise in articulation engineering is evident in the Dragon Stars line. The intricate joint systems allow for a wide range of dynamic poses, enhancing the figure’s playability and display potential. Examples include ball-jointed necks, hinged elbows and knees, and rotating wrists, enabling collectors to recreate iconic poses and scenes from the Dragon Ball universe. This articulation distinguishes the Super Saiyan Goku figure from less-poseable alternatives, contributing to its appeal.
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Sculpting and Paint Application
Bandai’s skilled sculptors and painters ensure the accurate representation of characters and their unique features. The Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku figure benefits from detailed sculpting, capturing the nuances of the character’s design, musculature, and facial expression. Precise paint applications further enhance the figure’s realism and visual appeal. Examples include the careful detailing of Goku’s Super Saiyan hair, the accurate representation of his gi, and the nuanced shading on his skin. These details contribute to the figure’s overall quality and collector appeal.
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Packaging and Presentation
Bandai’s attention to detail extends to the figure’s packaging. Collector-friendly designs, often featuring character art and protective window displays, enhance the presentation and contribute to the overall collectible experience. The packaging reinforces the figure’s value and safeguards its condition during shipping and storage. Examples include the use of high-quality cardboard, secure blister packs, and eye-catching graphics showcasing the figure. This attention to packaging reinforces the premium nature of the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive.
Bandai’s manufacturing expertise directly contributes to the desirability and perceived value of the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive figure. Their focus on quality control, articulation engineering, detailed sculpting and painting, and collector-focused packaging elevates the figure beyond a simple toy, transforming it into a premium collectible item. This understanding enhances the appreciation for the figure’s construction and reinforces its significance within the broader action figure collecting community.
Frequently Asked Questions
This section addresses common inquiries regarding the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive figure, providing clarity and dispelling potential misconceptions.
Question 1: What distinguishes this figure from other Super Saiyan Goku figures?
The Target exclusivity, combined with the detailed articulation and sculpting characteristic of the Dragon Stars line, distinguishes this figure. This specific combination of features and retail exclusivity makes it a unique offering within the broader range of Super Saiyan Goku merchandise.
Question 2: How does the figure’s articulation enhance its collectibility?
Extensive articulation allows for dynamic posing, enabling collectors to recreate iconic scenes and personalize displays. This poseability significantly enhances the interactive nature of the figure and distinguishes it from static statues or less-articulated alternatives.
Question 3: Does the packaging contribute to the figure’s value?
Collector-focused packaging, featuring character art and protective elements, contributes to both the presentation and preservation of the figure. Intact, attractive packaging is crucial for maintaining a collectible’s value, particularly for exclusive releases.
Question 4: What factors influence the potential resale value of this figure?
Target exclusivity, limited availability, the character’s popularity, and the condition of both the figure and its packaging contribute to its potential resale value. Market trends and collector demand also play significant roles in determining future market prices.
Question 5: Why is Bandai’s manufacturing expertise relevant?
Bandai’s reputation for quality materials, detailed sculpting, precise paint application, and articulation engineering contributes to the figure’s perceived value. Their manufacturing expertise assures collectors of a certain level of quality and attention to detail.
Question 6: Where can this figure be purchased?
Due to its exclusive nature, this specific Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku figure is typically only available for purchase through Target retail stores or their official website, while supplies last.
Understanding these key aspects clarifies the distinct characteristics and value proposition of the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive figure within the broader collectible market. Collectors armed with this information are better equipped to make informed decisions regarding acquisition and appreciate the nuances of this specific release.
Further exploration will delve into specific aspects of the figure’s design, its place within the Dragon Ball universe, and its significance within the action figure collecting community.
Collecting Tips for Limited Edition Figures
Acquiring and preserving limited-edition collectibles requires careful consideration and strategic planning. The following tips offer guidance for collectors seeking to maximize their collecting experience and potentially preserve the value of their acquisitions, particularly for items like the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive.
Tip 1: Pre-Order Strategically
Pre-ordering often guarantees securing a desired item, especially for limited releases. Monitoring retailer announcements and utilizing pre-order notification services can significantly increase the chances of acquisition before stock sells out.
Tip 2: Research Current Market Value
Understanding current market prices helps prevent overpaying. Consulting online marketplaces and price guides provides valuable insight into the fair market value of a collectible before committing to a purchase.
Tip 3: Inspect Packaging Upon Arrival
Careful inspection upon delivery helps identify potential shipping damage. Documenting any damage immediately is crucial for initiating returns or exchanges with the retailer. Preserving the original shipping carton provides additional protection during transit and storage.
Tip 4: Handle with Care
Minimizing handling reduces the risk of accidental damage. Wearing cotton gloves during handling prevents fingerprints and smudges, preserving the pristine condition of the figure and its packaging.
Tip 5: Store in a Controlled Environment
Proper storage is essential for long-term preservation. A cool, dry, and dark environment, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures, helps prevent discoloration, warping, and other forms of deterioration. Utilizing acid-free archival materials further protects the collectible and its packaging.
Tip 6: Display Strategically
Consider display options that minimize exposure to dust, sunlight, and potential damage. Display cases with UV protection offer optimal preservation, while strategic placement within a display can minimize the risk of accidental bumps or falls.
Tip 7: Research Authentication Methods
For high-value items, understanding authentication methods safeguards against counterfeits. Familiarizing oneself with manufacturer markings, packaging variations, and other identifying characteristics helps ensure the authenticity of a collectible.
These strategies offer collectors practical guidance for navigating the complexities of acquiring, preserving, and potentially increasing the value of limited-edition collectibles. Implementing these tips enhances the overall collecting experience and safeguards investments within the dynamic collectibles market.
The concluding section will summarize the key takeaways regarding the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive and its significance within the broader context of action figure collecting.
Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target Exclusive
This exploration examined the multifaceted aspects of the Dragon Stars Super Saiyan Goku Target exclusive action figure. Analysis encompassed the figure’s significance within the Dragon Stars series, the iconic nature of the Super Saiyan Goku character, the impact of Target exclusivity on market dynamics, the role of articulation in enhancing poseability and display potential, the importance of collectible packaging for preservation and value, potential resale value influenced by market trends and collector demand, the implications of limited availability on desirability, and Bandai’s manufacturing expertise as a contributing factor to quality and collectibility. Each element contributes to the figure’s distinct position within the action figure collecting landscape.
The convergence of character popularity, limited availability, and retailer exclusivity positions this figure as a desirable acquisition for collectors. Understanding the market forces, manufacturing processes, and collecting strategies surrounding such releases provides valuable insight into the broader dynamics of the collectible market. This knowledge empowers informed decision-making and fosters deeper appreciation for the nuanced interplay of factors that contribute to a collectible’s significance and potential long-term value.
