REVIEW HG 1/144 V03-0907 Oltlinde, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai assembly plastic model kit Gunpla HG 1/144 V03-0907 Oltlinde from Mobile Suit Gundam IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS Gekko.

P-Bandai Gunpla HGIBO 1/144 V03-0907 Oltlinde Review

Oltlinde, hailing from the HG Iron-Blooded Orphans series, is a captivating addition to the Gunpla universe. This kit comes with a price tag of 2,200 yen and is exclusively available as a pre-order item from Premium Bandai. While the package and instructions may be monochrome, they offer a thorough and informative guide to assembling this remarkable aircraft.

In terms of accessories, Oltlinde doesn't disappoint. It includes a set of Valkyrja double blades, connected Valkyrja double blades, and a left palm, all adding to the versatility of this model. The kit also features foil stickers that cover specific areas of the head and chest, enhancing its visual appeal.

Notably, Oltlinde shares some components with the Grimgerde runners, resulting in a few surplus parts. Unfortunately, these extras cannot be utilized to construct other aircraft. However, the frame, a Valkyrja frame in this case, ensures a solid foundation for this model.

Oltlinde is piloted by Jizil Jizin, a character from the Iron-Blooded Orphans Gekko series, and boasts unique characteristics such as asymmetrical shoulders and a hat-like design with a feathered headdress. A prominent feature is the large antenna attached to its head, while the shield binder on its left shoulder functions as a radar for detecting weak Ahab Waves.

The kit, primarily based on Grimgerde, shares the same joint construction. It employs KPS and polycaps for joints, with PC-002 used for the polycaps. This construction results in a well-balanced figure with a sleek proportion, thanks in part to its heel-type ankles.

The molding colors do an excellent job of replicating the aircraft's color scheme, but there are certain areas, such as the forearms and skirt armor, as well as the white pipes on the forearms and calves, that require additional painting to achieve full accuracy.

Head Unit

The head, with its unique hat-like design and feather decoration, features a clear visor. Some parts, including the slit on the chin, may need painting. A sticker is included for the visor's surround, enhancing its appearance.

Body Unit

The torso, a Valkyrja frame, houses a single reactor and incorporates stickers for the black part of the chest armor. The skirt armor, characterized by its length and sharp design, adds to the model's overall aesthetic.

The back thrusters are rotatable, and while the skirt armor's circular design lacks a sticker, it can be easily painted gray to complete the look.

Arms Unit

The arms showcase asymmetry, with distinct designs on the right shoulder armor and upper arms. Some parts, like the pipes, require additional painting. The left shoulder, though similar to Grimgerde's silhouette, features cross details and color-coded sections, along with a joint for the shield binder.

The left arm includes a wrist gauntlet, and only the left hand is equipped with a flat hand. The shield binder comprises five parts, allowing for rotation at the connection point.

Legs Unit

The hip joint offers simplicity without swing gimmicks, and the back armor features subtle detailing. The legs feature heel-type ankles, lending a sleek and slender appearance. Although the armor lacks visible seams, certain areas, such as the inner thighs, have noticeable cutouts.

Movability and Articulation

The toes are articulated and can be moved. In terms of articulation, Oltlinde inherits the excellent movement of the Valkyrja frame, enabling seamless posing and mobility. The shield binder can also be flipped up, ensuring it doesn't hinder articulation.

The shoulders and hips provide ample swing width and ground contact, making for easy posing. Compared to its base, Grimgerde, Oltlinde exhibits distinctive differences in armor design and height, providing an exciting contrast when equipped with weapons.

Weaponry and Option Set

Speaking of weapons, Oltlinde comes equipped with a left palm, perfect for dynamic poses. Its primary armament includes the Valkyrja double blade, featuring a unique yellow and white color scheme. The connected blade parts can be opened and closed, offering versatility in display options.

The grip of the weapon is well-designed, ensuring it doesn't slip during posing. The separate connection status allows for seamless play without noticeable joints or concerns about connection part strength.

The shield binder offers impressive mobility, with the base allowing swinging and rotation, and the binder itself featuring open-and-close functionality at the connecting points even when separated.

The Valkyrja Frame is masterfully crafted, with no major gimmicks, ensuring ease of play. Holding power is solid, and the refreshing white and pale green color scheme adds a touch of luxury to the model.

For enthusiasts, displaying Oltlinde alongside ASW-G-29 Gundam Astaroth Rinascimento is a thrilling option. When positioned next to HG Gundam Astaroth Rinascimento and HG Sigrun, both of which also feature Valkyrja frames, Oltlinde stands out with its heightened ankles and binder volume, creating a larger and more imposing presence than the Sigrun.

Summary

In conclusion, this review of HG Oltlinde underscores its exceptional qualities and unique features. As it joins the ranks of Gunpla kits from the Gekko series, it maintains the stellar mobility of the Grimgerde base. Despite its simple armament, Oltlinde captivates with its distinctive elements, such as the feathered head and striking double blades, making it a delightful kit for both display and play.