REVIEW MG 1/100 MS-06S Zaku II [Ver. 2.0][ Johnny Ridden Custom ], Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla MG 1/100 MS-06S Zaku II [Ver. 2.0][ Johnny Ridden Custom ] from Mobile Suit Gundam: MSV-R series.

P-Bandai Gunpla MG 1/100 MS-06S Zaku II [Ver. 2.0][ Johnny Ridden Custom ] Review

Johnny Ridden's iconic Zaku II, transformed into a Master Grade (MG) kit, is a testament to the enduring appeal of classic mobile suits. In this review, we delve into the recently reissued MG MS-06S Johnny Ridden Zaku II from Premium Bandai. Priced at 4,180 yen, this pre-order gem comes with a rich assortment of accessories, but does it live up to the legend? Let's find out.

Unboxing and Packaging

Upon opening the box, you'll find a single-color package reminiscent of Char's Zaku. While paper additions supplement the decals and various colored parts, disappointingly, there's no comprehensive guide to the aircraft.

Accessories Galore

The kit includes a plethora of accessories, such as the Zaku machine gun, Zaku bazooka, heat hawk & joint parts, lift, pilot figure, clear lens, and stand joint. A single water transfer decal sheet with thin lines and mono-eyes is provided.

Color Scheme and Reproduction

The kit impressively reproduces the vibrant red color scheme of Johnny Ridden's Zaku. Multiple sets of the same runners are included to recreate the distinctive yellow spikes and other features. Decals are used to enhance details like markings and red accents on the elbows.

Head and Mono Eye

The head features separate pipes for easy assembly, clear mono eye parts, and a realistic antenna shape. Unlike Char's Zaku, the mono eye on this model is molded in clear red, allowing for customization.

School Bag and Cockpit

The black, S-shaped school bag is faithfully reproduced, and the kit features a cockpit opening/closing gimmick common to the MG Zaku Ver. 2.0 series.

Articulation and Weapons

Articulation in this kit is excellent, with movable waist armor, articulated wrists, and numerous verniers. The kit comes with a Zaku Machine Gun, Zaku Bazooka, and Heat Hawk, each meticulously detailed.

Movability and Articulation

The kit includes a stand joint that attaches to the hip joint and can be used with an action base. The figure's waist can rotate firmly, and the shoulder area offers a high degree of freedom for dynamic posing.

Weaponry and Accessories set

The Zaku Machine Gun boasts clear parts for the scope and an option to switch to clear red. The Zaku Bazooka features movable foregrips and a scope cover that can be closed. The Heat Hawk is a single part, requiring careful painting.

Summary

The MG MS-06S Johnny Ridden Zaku II is a striking kit that captures the essence of this legendary mobile suit. While it's based on an older Char's Zaku II design, it doesn't compromise on quality. The only minor issue is the wrist holding dowel's shallow groove, but it's a small blemish on an otherwise luxurious MG kit.

This kit offers a satisfying build experience and is a must-have for fans of Johnny Ridden and Zaku II. Its bold red hue and faithful reproduction make it a standout piece in any Gunpla collection. In a world of high-tech Gundam units, sometimes, it's refreshing to revisit the classics. Johnny Ridden's Zaku II stands as a timeless reminder of the roots of the Gundam universe.