REVIEW HG 1/144 XM-XX Ghost Gundam, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 XM-XX Ghost Gundam from Mobile Suit Crossbone Gundam: Ghost series.

P-Bandai Gunpla HGUC 1/144 XM-XX Ghost Gundam Review

The P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 XM-XX Ghost Gundam, a rendition of the Mobile Suit Crossbone Gundam Ghost's modified Phantom, has emerged as a remarkable addition to the HGUC lineup. In this review, we'll delve into its features, construction, and unique attributes that set it apart from its predecessor.

Priced at 6,930 yen, this kit is exclusively available for pre-order through Premium Bandai. While the packaging maintains a single-color scheme, the instructions, crucially, are presented in color, offering a detailed guide accompanied by aircraft explanations.

A Multitude of Accessories: Unleashing the Ghost's Arsenal

The Ghost Gundam arrives equipped with a plethora of accessories, including a replacement head, replacement face parts, open hand, right peacock handle, peacock, flame sword base & replacement parts, base parts for mirage bird transformation, 2 types of joint parts for transformation, beam effects, and the phantom. Notably, the kit boasts light reproduction parts and two distinct flame sword effects, enhancing its visual appeal.

Meticulous Construction: Where Ghost Meets Phantom

Constructed with surplus parts from the Phantom and Crossbones, the Ghost Gundam showcases various beam parts, heat daggers, and butterfly busters. The silver runner exhibits a matte-plated finish, underscoring attention to detail.

Aesthetic Brilliance: Matte Plating and Color Harmony

The Ghost Gundam shares proportions and balance with the Phantom, yet its main feature lies in the matte-plated finish across the entire body. This lends the model a beautiful texture with no visible weld lines, emphasizing its solid finish. The color scheme is predominantly reproduced with molded colors, complemented by stickers for detailed areas around the mask and rear armor.

Comparative Analysis: Ghost vs. Phantom

A head-to-head comparison reveals minor differences, particularly in the mask part with additional slits. While the fuselage remains largely unchanged, distinct variations emerge in the backpack, arms, waist, and legs, reflecting the Ghost's unique design elements.

Phantom Light Activation: Transformative Display

The Ghost Gundam introduces the Phantom Light activation gimmick, transforming its appearance dramatically. This involves replacing various parts, such as the head, chest, waist armor, shoulders, forearms, knees, and calves. The resultant effect is a visually striking manifestation with a radiant, flame-like aura.

Armament Showcase: Peacock and Flame Sword

In lieu of the Butterfly Buster B, the Ghost Gundam comes with a peacock, adding a unique touch to its armament. The peacock, sourced from Crossbone X-0, showcases a smasher mode akin to Peacock Smasher. The matte-plated finish further elevates its aesthetic appeal, while its effects contribute to its overall visual dynamism.

Transformative Mirage Bird Mode: Elegance in Flight

The Ghost Gundam's Mirage Bird transformation remains consistent with its predecessor, featuring limb attachments and adjustments for a seamless transition. The addition of a peacock enhances its avian resemblance, creating an aesthetically pleasing form.

Summary

In conclusion, the HGUC Ghost Gundam is a captivating modification of the Phantom, skillfully blending reused parts with distinct design elements reminiscent of Crossbone X1. Its diverse gimmicks, from the vibrant Phantom Light activation to the elegant Mirage Bird transformation, contribute to a visually engaging model. The matte plating imparts a luxurious texture, particularly effective against the Ghost's predominantly silver appearance, ensuring a captivating and refined finish.