REVIEW MS Mechanical Bust 07: MSN-04 Sazabi, Bandai

This is the review of Bandai Bust Model Gunpla MS Mechanical Bust 07: MSN-04 Sazabi from Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack - Beltorchika's Children.

Bandai Bust Model Gunpla MS Mechanical Bust 07: MSN-04 Sazabi Review

This is a review of the MS Mechanical Bust 07 MSN-04 Sazabi. It's the first non-Gundam Mobile Suit in this series, making it an expected choice, especially since the first release was the ν Gundam. While the sculpt is generally good, there are a few concerns, such as the noticeable seam on the forehead and some issues with part fitting.

MSN-04 Sazabi Exterior (Color Version)

The exterior is presented in two color versions: the standard color and the mechanical clear. The color version features the iconic red of Sazabi, and while the overall design is solid, the seam on the forehead is quite noticeable, and the part fitting is a bit off, which detracts from the overall build quality.

MSN-04 Sazabi Exterior (Mechanical Clear Version)

The mechanical clear version is, as usual, simple and uncolored, allowing you to see the internal mechanics of the figure. The clear version comes in the usual transparent material, offering a different visual experience compared to the color version.

Internal Mechanics (With Luminous Unit)

Being the first non-Gundam Mobile Suit in the series, the internal mechanics are distinct, featuring a rounded head and pipes running through the neck and abdomen, which gives it a unique appearance. As usual, the luminous unit can be placed inside the chest and neck cavities to light up the figure. The set includes only one luminous unit.

Luminous Unit Comparison

When compared with the previous Strike Freedom unit (left), which emitted yellow light, this unit gives off a standard light. You can use two units simultaneously to light up both the head and chest.

Color Version with Internal Mechanics

Attaching the color version exterior to the internal mechanics fills in the gaps, with added details like the color in the mono-eye and the abdominal mega particle cannon. The neck and waist now feature more pipes, and the waist frame has been crafted with a high level of precision.

Light-Up Feature

With the light-up feature activated, the mono-eye glows a vibrant green, significantly enhancing the overall appearance. However, the seam on the forehead remains noticeable, which is a bit distracting.

Clear Version with Internal Mechanics

The clear version exterior, when attached to the internal mechanics, offers a clean look. Perhaps due to familiarity with other white versions like Miss Sazabi or GPB, this variant feels natural and quite fitting for Sazabi.

Light-Up Feature with Clear Version

The clear version also benefits from the light-up feature, providing a different yet equally impressive visual effect.

Comparison with RX-93 ν Gundam

Here’s a comparison with the first release in the series, the RX-93 ν Gundam, which was released in October 2022. Nearly two years later, the rival machine Sazabi finally joins the lineup.

Summary

In conclusion, the MS Mechanical Bust 07 MSN-04 Sazabi offers a solid entry as the first non-Gundam Mobile Suit in this series. While the noticeable seam on the forehead and the slightly difficult assembly due to poor part fitting are drawbacks, the figure itself is sharp, detailed, and looks great when displayed, especially with the light-up feature next to the ν Gundam. As with the previous release of the Strike Freedom ver. 2, the popularity of this series seems to be growing, as gashapon machines in my area quickly sell out, leaving online purchasing as the only option. If you're interested, it’s best to purchase it as soon as possible.