Fans have to remain vigilant if they want to make sure their beloved best girl merchandise is the real deal

Anime News Network's merchandise coverage sponsored by Tokyo Otaku Mode

Fans have to remain vigilant if they want to make sure their beloved best girl merchandise is the real deal. This includes a recent figure of wedding Rem, the fan-favorite maid from Re: Zero. The Phat Company figure is a hot commodity, it was even included in our figure holiday gift guide this year. As with any popular merchandise, there's bound to be imitators hoping to make a quick buck.

Good Smile Company posted a list of things to look for when purchasing your Rem bride to make sure the figure is authentic.

The first giveaway is the packaging. Phat's official figure comes in a white box while the knock-off is in a blue box.

The next major difference is the character's face and head. The head should not be removable, at least not easily. The expressions are also noticeably different. The knock-off has blush marks and her eyes appear to be looking upward instead of forward.

The last giveaway is the base design. Phat's official base is light blue with a lace design painted on while imitators may be clear or have a different design.

Retailers sometimes put together helpful guides like the one above to help consumers spot fakes. Character goods company SK Japan released similar pointers back in October when counterfeit Yūri Mochi Mochi Mascots began appearing online. Some hilariously awful Attack on Titan Nendoroids also made rounds online, but that had less to do with duping fans as inciting laughter.

[Via Yara-on!]