REVIEW MG 1/100 RX-75 Guntank, Bandai

This is review of Bandai plastic model kit Gunpla MG 1/100 RX-75 Guntank from Mobile Suit Gundam series.

Bandai MG 1/100 RX-75 Guntank Review

The Bandai MG 1/100 RX-75 Guntank offers an impressive array of MG original gimmicks, making it a standout in the Mobile Suit Gundam series. With a price tag of 5,280 yen, I had the pleasure of assembling this kit, originally released in 2009.

Included in the package are accessories like the core fighter stand and various figures. On the right side, you'll find a 4-frame surplus part that serves as a spare. The kit also provides seals, including marking stickers and transfer-type Gundam decals.

Core Fighter Unit

First, let's take a look at the Core Fighter, which shares specifications with MG Gundam Ver.2.0. Naturally, the missile launcher can be deployed, and a clear stand, mimicking the landing gear, allows it to be displayed independently. The canopy opens and closes, and you have the choice of either Ryu Hosei or Hayato Kobayashi as the pilot.

The Core Fighter can transform seamlessly without replacement, ensuring the pilot faces forward even when the core block is in place. It's then stored in the abdomen, akin to the Gundam.

Guntank Unit

The MG Guntank, dating back to 2009, boasts a distinctive appearance with its massive lower body attached with tracks, giving it the look of a tank combined with an MS. Equipped with two 120mm low-recoil cannons on the shoulders and 4-barreled Bobb missile launchers on both arms, it faithfully reproduces its armament.

The kit's style is relatively straightforward, with no flashy mold additions. However, it embraces realism with MG-like gimmicks that make it enjoyable to build. ABS is used for movable parts instead of poly caps, and the inclusion of an LED unit necessitates the use of a Phillips screwdriver. Two LR41 button batteries are required to enjoy the light-emitting feature.

The aircraft's color scheme is well-reproduced with molded colors, but painting is needed for the core fighter's canopy frame and the head cockpit's canopy, which is initially colorless and transparent.

Head Unit

The head unit features a canopy with an attached frame and an LED unit on the neck. The sharp antenna and open slit in the mask add to its detail. The canopy is fully functional, and the frame can be removed if desired.

Body Unit

The body unit exhibits a voluminous torso with a neck slit. The chest duct's yellow parts open together, and a unique MG feature, the traveling lock, allows the chest armor to be raised. The cockpit hatch also opens and closes, and the gun barrel is supported by a cylinder.

Weaponry

The 120mm low recoil cannon, despite its size, lacks seams due to the clever use of cylindrical parts. It can swing up and down and even partially open in a V-shape, with a spring mimicking the recoil gimmick at the base. The exhaust ports at the back are intricately detailed, even revealing the warhead inside when the armor is removed.

Arms unit

The arms unit offers seam-free design, and the elbows have excellent articulation. The Bob Missile Launcher's four muzzles expand and contract as it rotates.

Bogie Wheel Unit

Moving to the lower body unit, it comes with its original gimmick, allowing the outriggers to be extended. An additional outrigger on the back serves as a carrier for transportation. The exhaust port is open, and the track frame can be pulled out for detailed access, even while armored. Plastic springs are used for the damper part, allowing it to expand and contract, showcasing meticulous design.

Movability and Articulation

Regarding movability and articulation, the neck's LED doesn't hinder flexibility. The arms bend about 90 degrees, and the waist can rotate slightly. The track offers significant freedom in movement, including opening in a V-shape and rotating.

The kit includes four standing pose figures: Hayato Kobayashi, Ryu Josei, Bright Noah, and Mirai Yashima. The tracks rotate, though not entirely smoothly, adding realism to the model. The LED light-emitting gimmick may not be highly noticeable in bright conditions, but the instrument panel lights up. Additionally, the interconnected gimmicks, like the bobb missile's muzzle, enhance the kit's playability.

The articulated tracks conform to the ground's shape to some extent, adding to the realistic look. Assembly may be a bit challenging due to the frame-by-frame track connection, but it's worth it. Even with the armor attached, access to the internal lever is possible, and the damper part, utilizing plastic springs, is a testament to the kit's intricate design.

As for aesthetics, there are many cylindrical and round parts with minimal seams. While there's a dividing line on the head, it's detailed to appear intentional.

Comparison

Comparing it to the HGUC version of Guntank, the MG version boasts a wider lower body, providing a more imposing presence. It also has greater arm volume.

Summary

In conclusion, the MG Guntank, released in 2009, impresses with its intricate structure and an array of features. From the barrel of the Bob missile to the flexible crawler belt and plastic spring-based dampers, this kit is packed with engaging gimmicks. It also incorporates elements for added realism, such as a traveling lock resembling a real tank, wheel shape changes, and outrigger additions. Thanks to its articulated tracks, realistic sagging and ground adherence are faithfully replicated, making it a truly captivating kit to assemble.