REVIEW SDCS RX-0 Unicorn Gundam 02 Banshee [ Destroy Mode ] & Banshee Norn Parts Set, Bandai

This is review of Bandai plastic model Gunpla SDCS RX-0 Unicorn Gundam 02 Banshee [ Destroy Mode ] & Banshee Norn Parts Set from Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn series.

Bandai Gunpla SDCS RX-0 Unicorn Gundam 02 Banshee [ Destroy Mode ] & Banshee Norn Parts Set Review

The Banshee has been introduced as a kit in the SDCS series. This kit allows for the reproduction of both the Banshee and the Banshee Norn, with a price of 2,200 yen. The accessories include a CS frame, a beam magnum with a revolving launcher, a set of parts for the Banshee Norn, and two beam sabers. The GM head, which is convenient for the CS frame runner, is treated as a bonus part that can be used freely.

In terms of stickers, aside from the eye and parietal camera stickers, foil stickers are provided to complement the claws and shield wings of the armed armor VN, along with plastic stickers. This plastic seal is used for the Armed Armor BS. There are two types of pupil seals available, one with normal pupils and the other with eyes that have a more intense look. For this review, I have used the pupil seal and the plastic seal.

While Unicorn and Phenex have previously been released as kits, the Banshee has also been newly introduced in the SDCS line. This kit incorporates parts from the Unicorn Gundam series, allowing for the reproduction of various armed armors. It offers the ability to recreate both the Banshee and the Banshee Norn. The kit includes a CS frame, which is commonly featured in recent SDCS releases, enabling easy transformation between SD and CS modes. By switching to the CS frame, the head and body are elevated, and the range of motion is expanded.

Both SD and CS versions are available. The SD version features four-paku eyes, while the CS version has twin eyes without pupils and shading. The kit features the destroy mode, with both versions equipped with Armed Armor BS and Armed Armor VN.

The psycho frame incorporates clear parts, while the armed armor BS uses a plastic seal that mimics the appearance of a clear part. The overall color scheme of the model is based on molding colors, with some parts such as the armed armor VN's claws requiring stickers, and specific areas like the vernier on the backpack and the instep of the foot needing painting.

Head Unit

The head design is accurately recreated with new parts, and the flashy antenna shape is evident. Due to the fixed destroy mode, the head does not fold up; however, its SD size provides a striking presence. The kit includes a pupil change gimmick, allowing for the creation of twin eyes with different expressions.

Body Unit

The torso appearance is similar between the SD and CS versions, but the shoulders and abdomen offer improved mobility in the CS version. While the psycho frame on the torso is made from clear parts, the backpack remains a single color, necessitating painting for the vernier and psycho frame.

Arms Unit

The right arm is based on the unicorn design and is equipped with a new armed armor BS. The barrel's expansion and contraction are fixed in the deployed state, but it can be lowered and set into the firing position. A plastic seal with a clear-like texture is used here.

The left arm is fitted with Armed Armor VN. Some parts of the claw are not color-coded and require stickers for completion. While it can't be fully retracted, all claws can move independently and open widely.

Legs Unit

The hip joint design varies between the SD and CS versions, with the CS version offering improved mobility. While the legs feature some color variation, the psycho frame on the knees is represented using clear parts. The CS version includes an additional knee joint, resulting in a longer leg. The thigh frame is exposed, and the color remains gray.

The soles have openings around the toes, with elements borrowed from the mostly recycled design of the Unicorn Gundam. The head antenna and armed armor contribute to a more refined appearance. The range of motion matches that of other Unicorn kits, making this kit versatile. The SD frame lacks extensive movement, but the CS frame offers excellent poseability.

Although other Unicorn-type kits include transformation gimmicks that may hinder movement due to armor parts closing and shifting, this kit's fixed design ensures ease of movement. The voluminous armed armor VN boasts an impressive presence, especially with the widely opening claws.

Weaponry and Accessories

Both armed armors are securely fixed by forearm joints, minimizing any wobbling. Transitioning to the Banshee Norn involves removing the Armed Armor BS & VN from the arms and attaching the Armed Armor XC & Armed Armor DE to the back.

Armed changes are straightforward, and although disassembling parts to swap SD and CS frames may take some time, it poses no significant challenges. While some SDCS items may present difficulties in removing the ankle frame, I found it easy to remove mine.

Armed Armor XC is inserted into the saber slot on the backpack. Due to the fixed destroy mode, it cannot be retracted or moved. When attaching Armed Armor DE to the back, connect the joint to the backpack first. The kit includes a Beam Magnum, this time with an attached revolving launcher.

The magnum part is derived from the unicorn design, requiring painting as it is a single-color molded part. The muzzle remains closed, necessitating drilling for those concerned about accuracy. Armed Armor DE features a wing part with a seal, complemented by clear parts for a visually appealing effect. While the back joint felt slightly loose, adjusting it was uncomplicated. Armed Armor DE can also be equipped on the arm, adding a flashy armament to the kit's appearance.

The single-part beam saber needs painting, and while the saber grip can be detached when holding the saber, it is incompatible with his Tonfa.

The fluorescent clear parts react to black light, creating a bright and striking appearance. Various armed armor configurations can be equipped, showcasing the kit's versatility.

Comparison

When comparing the painted kit to the BB Senshi version, the SDCS version boasts thicker legs, better balance, and enhanced sculpting and weaponry. While the transformation gimmick is omitted, and certain parts require clear parts, this kit offers both advantages and disadvantages.

Finally, the head-to-body balance matches that of the Unicorn and Phenex kits. There is no specific painting recipe included.

Summary

In conclusion, this wraps up the review of the SDCS Unicorn Gundam 02 Banshee. With the Unicorn and Phenex being introduced first, the main body remains largely consistent. The dark blue color is complemented by the use of fluorescent color for the psycho frame, ensuring the color scheme remains vibrant.

Additionally, the inclusion of the CS frame, a common feature in recent SDCS releases, eliminates the need for separate frame purchases and offers flexibility in choosing head and body configurations. Furthermore, the Banshee Norn's armament is included, making this kit the most comprehensive in the SDCS Unicorn series.