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In the Pacific Ocean lies a gigantic, terrifying creature. With an octopus-like head, a scaly, rubbery body, prodigious claws, and long narrow wings, this monstrous being is waiting to rise again. H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu has become a central figure in horror fiction over the years with good reason. One thing that is commonly overshadowed though, is Cthulhu’s love for cats!

From the mastermind behind the Tea Time Cats and Mushroom Girls series, Star Shadow Magician re-envisions Cthulhu to be a bit more moe. Previously they have created an idol and chibi version of the tentacle monster that is charming in their own way. The playful reinterpretation may contrast sharply with Lovecraft's original vision but has helped Cthulhu get a broader audience who might not typically engage with horror fiction.

With a strong dislike for shows like Love Live, I would consider idols to be a symbol of cosmic horror equal to Cthulhu, so an idol version isn't so out of the ordinary. This time around, Star Shadow Magician went for a more strictly vibe. The Nekopuru Pajama Party Cthulhu by Apex Innovation is a unique concept that blends the eldritch horror of Cthulhu with the playful charm of a pajama party.

Instead of invoking terror, this adorable Cthulhu brings smiles with its playful tentacles and miniature wings that probably can't lift it. Cthulhu's vibrant green color and unassuming expression make it a perfect companion for bedtime stories, transforming the once fearsome creature into a lovable, huggable friend.

This figure reimagines the iconic Lovecraftian entity as an adorable girl dressed in cozy pajamas, surrounded by cuddly cathulhus. The design is endearing with cute little wings, a frilly dress and girly bows and ribbons throughout. The cats seem a bit derpy which helps emphasize the non-threatening, child-like persona given to Cthulhu. With a height around 10cm, this is a fairly small figure but Apex still managed to add a load of tiny details

Giving the cats big heads and noodly like legs is a nice stylized approach that blends octopus and kitty nicely. They have a nice, pale subdued color palette which balances with the vibrant green quite well. The sculpt is incredibly well done with each tentacle being carefully thought out and individual suckers added with a realistic look.

The paint job is what we have come to expect from Apex. Using different kinds of paint really adds depth to the figure and makes the small-ish size still pack a punch. Changing from a matte finish to something more glossy depending on the part is a subtle yet important detail. Tentacles are usually imagined to be wet and slimy so a bit of shine works well and needs some contrast with other materials like Cthulhu’s hood or hair.

Cthulhu is available for pre-order and expected to be released at the end of June, 2025! It seems even an ancient cosmic entity needs a break from summoning eldritch horrors from time to time, and a pajama party is the purrrfect way to relax.

Thank you for reading!