REVIEW ROBOT SPIRITS [SIDE MS] GAT-X103 Buster Gundam ver. ANIME, Bandai

This is review of Bandai Gunpla ROBOT魂 Spirits <SIDE MS> GAT-X103 Buster Gundam ver. ANIME from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED.

Bandai Gunpla ROBOT魂 Spirits <SIDE MS> GAT-X103 Buster Gundam ver. ANIME Review

The overall proportions and design features of the Buster Gundam follow the same style as the previous ver. A.N.I.M.E. SEED series. Though the color might appear slightly different in photos, the greenish hue of the mobile suit is accurately reproduced.

Head Sculpt

The head sculpt, including the distinctive visor and sharp antennae, captures the character's likeness perfectly. The eyes feature the usual metallic paint, with precise detailing beneath them.

Body Parts

In contrast to the older version, which had a more robust design, this model maintains the anime's original balance without adding extra details.

The waist section remains well-proportioned, consistent with the rest of the model.

Arms and Legs

The balance of the arms and legs is also well-executed. The length and thickness are just right, with the legs showcasing a smooth, attractive form. The shoulder missile hatch can open and close, and the side armor moves up and down.

Backpack and Weapons

The backpack's weapons can slide up and down at the base. The length of the weapons visible over the shoulders can be adjusted.

Arms and Movement

The arms have flexible movement. While the waist joint is completely fixed when the arms and weapons are stowed, this isn’t an issue since the weapons are usually removed during movement.

Accessories

94mm High-Energy Converging Beam Rifle

The beam rifle can be deployed by moving the arm. Although the grip is movable, it’s somewhat challenging to hold. The rifle comes with green and yellow effect parts.

350mm Gun Launcher

Like the beam rifle, the gun launcher can also be deployed. It has the same grip issues. By attaching a special adapter to the gun launcher's muzzle, two types of effects can be used.

Combining Weapons

By connecting the high-energy converging beam rifle at the front, you can recreate the ultra-high impulse long-range sniper rifle. Connecting the gun launcher at the front allows for the recreation of the anti-armor shotgun, which also includes a dedicated effect.

Missile Effects

Missile effects are included. These can be attached by removing the warhead parts. The effects come in four parts, allowing for customizable combinations.

Comparison with the Older Series

The new Buster Gundam does not include vernier effects, but the ones included with Duel can be used. Compared to the older version, which had inconsistent colors and an awkward shine, the new model greatly improves on these aspects.

With this release, the ver. A.N.I.M.E. initial GAT-X series is now complete. While the four models are nearly perfect, it's unfortunate that Aegis' transformation priority resulted in a shoulder design that differs from the original image.

Articulation and Action Poses

The joints are similar to those of Strike, allowing for good articulation. The missile launch effect is a bit modest, with short range. The anti-armor shotgun includes a unique scatter effect, and its versatility is promising.

The ultra-high impulse long-range sniper rifle cannot be moved up or down when connected, limiting some poses. However, the effect parts help in creating dynamic scenes. The model's stability allows for wide stances.

Summary

The retail price of 11,550 yen is quite surprising, but the model lives up to the ver. A.N.I.M.E. SEED series' standards with its accurate proportions and unique coloring. The articulation is excellent, and the large weapons with various effects add to the model’s appeal.