REVIEW HG 1/144 MS-06GD Zaku High Mobility Type [Surface Type][Selma Custom], Premium Bandai

This is review P-Bandai plastic model Gunpla HG 1/144 MS-06GD Zaku High Mobility Type [Surface Type][Selma Custom] from Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan's Island.

P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 MS-06GD Zaku High Mobility Type [Surface Type][Selma Custom] Review

Introducing the high-mobility Zaku designed for surface use, known as the Selma machine, which follows the GBA model. This new kit is part of the island series in the HG Cucuruz Doan's Island. Available as an order item from Premium Bandai, the price is 2,970 yen. The packaging is simple, featuring a monochrome instruction manual with no aircraft description provided.

The kit includes accessories such as the B2-type bazooka, two spare magazines, a bayonet (heat dagger), a right gun handle, a left open hand, a bazooka joint, a heat dagger joint, and a stand joint.

Water transfer decals are the only provided seals. The camouflage is replicated using decals, though simpler in pattern compared to the GBA machine.

Some surplus parts are from the Origin Zaku line.

The Selma machine is derived from the Mobile Suit Gundam Cucuruz Doan's Island movie. This aircraft is associated with Selma Lievens, the sole female pilot of the Southern Cross Corps. While it shares similarities with the commander's GBA machine, it features slight color pattern adjustments and a head without an antenna.

Largely based on the HG Origin Zaku series, this kit closely resembles the GBA machine with a combination of KPS and PC-001 joints. Its precise recreation of hover units and attention to detail makes it hard to believe it's just an HG kit.

The bazooka can be mounted on the back, and the heat knife can be positioned on the waist. A spare magazine can also attach to the shield. While the color scheme is generally replicated, the camouflage pattern relies on decals. However, these decals are simpler than those on the GBA machine, making them easier to reproduce through painting.

Head Unit

The head lacks an antenna and has a bright beige color. The mono-eye, detailed and accurately aligned on its rail, is replicated with a decal. The rotation mechanism is retained.

Body Unit

The torso's chest area features a simplified color scheme. The backpack at the back remains consistent. Although assembling the integral power pipe is straightforward, some bending points might result in gaps.

Arms Unit

The forearm color pattern is simpler, with changes in molding color. The shield retains its spike-adorned design.

Legs Unit

The waist's hover unit is meticulously color-coded, with elegant lining parts covering front and rear cutouts. Hip joint movement remains seamless. Various weapons can be affixed using the provided joint, with two spare magazines attaching to the shield.

Leg molding is similar, with subtle differences in the instep's molding color. The Selma machine is placed on the right side for this review, as opposed to my usual practice of placing the kit on the left. A knee-extension gimmick is present, enabling deep bends. The foot's sole is typical and lacks excess material.

Weaponry

Please refer to this review for the range of motion, similar to that of the GBA machine.

The attached weapon is a new B2-type bazooka. Its primary grip, sub-grip, and scope are adjustable. Separate parts constitute the muzzle and exhaust port, but some seams exist due to molding.

The removable magazine can be swapped with a spare one. While resembling the Origin Char's Zaku bazooka, slight differences include magazine surroundings, shoulder-placement ability, and scope shape.

As part of the Origin system, it maintains excellent articulation, and the dowel-fixed gun in the right hand ensures stability. The stand joint is Action Base-compatible, with a 3mm hole in the rear skirt for decoration.

Additionally, a heat dagger is included. This originates from the GBA machine. A sizable, powerful knife, it's single-color molded, necessitating painting for a heated effect. Compatible with:

Comparison

Contrasting with the Zaku GBA Unit, the only difference apart from armaments is the antenna absence. The Selma machine's camouflage pattern is more subdued, with simpler molding colors.

The cohesive camouflage, based on sandy tones, stands out whether reproduced through decals or paint.

Comparing with the HG GM (Morocco Front), the Southern Cross Corps releases facilitate diverse combinations in gameplay.

Finally, a comparison with Doan's exclusive Zaku and GM (Morocco Front specification) showcases the Zaku type's robust lower body and solid silhouette.

Summary

This concludes the review of the HG High Mobility Type Zaku for ground use (Selma machine). Following the Captain's GBA machine release, both the Selma machine and the Wold machine became available. While fundamentally the GBA machine's antenna-less version, changes in molding color and camouflage pattern set it apart.

The camouflage, whether through decals or paint, is less intricate compared to the GBA machine. Decal application and painting were notably easier than with the GBA machine. Additionally, the inclusion of the new B2-type bazooka adds appeal, making it a well-crafted kit consistent with the origin system's excellence.