Are the SICs the same height as the Figuarts?
No they are not. Think I posted a picture w/ size comparison in this thread somewhere a few pages back...meh, it's easy enough to dig up, here:
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That's Figuarts Joker on the right there, and SIC Fang/Joker on the left.
When it comes to the design choices of SIC, it's really very hit or miss with me. Some characters I feel the costuming was either too cheap or too gaudy or just...well, let's say you could tell it was a guy in a suit. And those few designs really benefit from the SIC makeover. I think Birugenia fits into that category.
An example of some of the times when I prefer SIC's take to the show are Gatakiriba, basically every Showa rider, Den-O's various forms (especially Sword), and Blade. But that's an entirely subjective thing.
The point I'm trying to make is that sometimes show accuracy is good, and there's ALWAYS a place for that with any collector. But sometimes, you'll have a design that just doesn't jive with you (I'm sure there's at least one). And you might think "I'm never getting a fucking figure of that ugly ass thing". But then...sometimes, SIC makes you reconsider.
I didn't think I'd EVER want a Putotyra, for instance. But now I do.