So you’re here lurking about, probably in the GLD discord or others while trying to figure out if you want to pull the trigger on this crazy impulse you have. Well let me tell you a few things I went through after hitting that final “place order” button.

The Cost: An Investment, Not Just a Purchase

First of all, let's face it—you’re basically 50% if not more there. You probably have a short list of characters, and Tifa is at the top (or better be, lol). Joking aside, let's see what kind of doubts hold you back. The most glaring: the cost.

They are not cheap. However, you have to take into consideration the size, investment, and infrastructure GLD has to create in order to bring these to life. We aren't talking about mass-produced Hasbro toys here.

But the details—veins, pores, makeup, eyebrows. It's the things you can see up close that none of the online pictures or videos can ever really capture. I honestly just find myself staring at her.

“What Will Others Think?” & Finding Your Comfort Zone

Now, what will others think? Well, I can't help you there. The FedEx driver—whether he knew or not—just tossed it on his shoulder and walked the person-sized box into my living room. I kind of chuckle thinking he knew, especially because it was bigger than his “helper”.

I personally don’t care. I have my Tifa displayed in my game room. Friends have found it amazing and not weird at all. That being said, I have mine as a display. I dress her up in holiday clothing or themes for seasons. No shame if you do enjoy more intimate activities—mind you, it's just what I have mine for.

The Nitty-Gritty: Weight, Waiting & First Encounters

Weight: They can be a bit heavy depending on which one/size you get. But they aren’t that hard to move around. I’ll usually just grab her under her arms or sometimes carry her in a bridal carry.

Wait Time: They will take a while to arrive unless you get lucky with an in-stock doll. Most are made to order. I only bugged them once about the status (due to a holiday delay), but other than that, everything went smoothly.

The “Getting Used To” Phase: Getting used to her at first was entertaining. Trying to figure out where she looked best... She scared me several times in the first week because I kept moving her! I remember saying out loud, “Damn it Tifa!” I think it’s one of the things I look back fondly on, though.

Care, Creativity & A New Hobby

I love having her around. I enjoy planning outfits, brushing her hair, powdering her, changing her poses. Even small changes are satisfying.

I find that taking care of her to be therapeutic, like building a model or working on a puzzle. When it's all done, I see that smile and her eyes as if she is happy with it.

This has turned into a creative rabbit hole for me. Planning outfits, lighting ideas, how to take better pictures... Right now she is standing there in a simple Christmas dress with adorable little antlers.

The Verdict: A Permanent Fixture

It’s safe to say she is a permanent fixture of not only my game room but my life. I was nervous at first—cost, quality, legitimacy, possible buyer's remorse—but I regret nothing.

I can’t help but smile even now just looking at her. I’ve been showing her off, telling others about her. Did an unboxing for some Discord friends. It’s an experience I can't quite put into words. I just really love enjoying her presence and fussing over her.

An experience I can't quite put into words, but one I wholeheartedly recommend.

- Zella