An ink-jet recording water-based ink composition includes a polymer obtained by emulsion polymerization of a monomer having an ethylene-type unsaturated bond in the molecule and divinylbenzene in the presence of a reactive emulsifier, a polyethylene-based wax, a water-soluble resin, water, and a colorant. When ink coat is formed on a plastic film having a degree of gloss at 60.degree. of 140 to 150 by discharging droplets of the ink composition onto the plastic film, the ink coat has a degree of gloss at 60.degree. within a range of 50 to 120.