REVIEW ROBOT SPIRITS [SIDE MS] EMC-TC02 Phantom V2/V2 Custom Compatible Set, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai ROBOT魂 Spirits <SIDE MS> EMC-TC02 Phantom V2/V2 Custom Compatible Set from Mobile Suit Crossbone Gundam DUST series.

P-Bandai ROBOT魂 Spirits <SIDE MS> EMC-TC02 Phantom V2/V2 Custom Compatible Set Review

This review covers the ROBOT Damashii Phantom Gundam V2/V2 Kai Convertible Set. The basic body is almost identical to the Ghost Gundam, with the option to recreate the appearance of Phantom V2 or V2 Kai by using the included weapons.

Head Sculpt

The head sculpt remains unchanged from the original Phantom Gundam. Although it was first introduced three years ago, it still holds up well without feeling outdated. The eyes are painted with metallic colors, as usual. The coloring of the head has been slightly altered, with the forehead now black like the Ghost Gundam.

Heat Dissipation Mode

Just like the original Phantom Gundam, the heat dissipation mode can be recreated. However, instead of swapping out the entire head, you now switch parts similar to the Ghost Gundam. The instruction manual warns about the risk of damage, and indeed, I noticed that applying too much force caused some whitening near the right eye, so caution is advised.

Body and Color Scheme

The body structure remains the same as the original Phantom Gundam. The distinctive green-centric color scheme is faithfully reproduced, capturing the essence of the manga.

Arms and Legs

The arms and legs show no noticeable changes, with the color scheme remaining identical to the original.

Back and Binder Mechanics

The movable gimmicks in the binders and other parts of the back are unchanged.

Accessories

Effect Parts and Base Set

The set includes a variety of effect parts and a display base.

Left Arm and Shoulder Armor

By swapping out the left arm part, you can convert the figure into Phantom Gundam V2. The left shoulder armor is replaced with a part that has no slits, and the left arm is equipped with a Nose Rotor. The conversion is simple, requiring only a hand swap.

Beam Machine Gun Effect Parts

You can swap out the tips of the weapons to attach the triple beam machine gun effect parts.

Phantom Gundam V2 Kai

For the V2 Kai configuration, the left shoulder armor is reverted to the normal version, and the left hand is equipped with the Mystic Shield, while the right hand holds the Kujaku weapon.

Mystic Shield

The Mystic Shield has a design resembling an expanded Nose Rotor from the V2. The shield can be closed, but only when held with the grip. The tip of the shield can also be swapped with the triple beam machine gun effect parts.

Kujaku Weapon

The Kujaku is the same as the one included with the Ghost Gundam. It can switch between Buster Mode and Smasher Mode without needing to swap parts, thanks to a simple push-and-slide mechanism. Effect parts are included for both modes.

Heat Knife

The Heat Knife is identical to the one included with the original Phantom Gundam and can be stored on the waist.

Flame Sword and Flame Rifle Effects

The Flame Sword can be created by attaching the effect parts to the Heat Knife, while the Flame Rifle effect requires a part swap.

I-Field Parts and Phantom Light Effects

The I-Field parts are the same as the original Phantom Gundam and are swapped out along with the wrist. The set also includes a full set of Phantom Light effect parts, allowing for a dramatic change in appearance when all the effects are attached.

Transformation and Display

Mirage Bird Transformation

The Phantom Gundam can still transform into the Mirage Bird, with the Nose Rotor attached to the V2's nose section. The large display base included in this set makes it easy to display the Mirage Bird without the need for a separate Tamashii Stage.

V2 Kai Transformation

In the V2 Kai configuration, the Mystic Shield can be attached in its closed state to the nose section. Although there isn't much difference in appearance between the closed Mystic Shield and the Nose Rotor, the effect parts for the triple beam machine gun and Phantom Light propeller can still be attached.

Comparisons and Final Thoughts

The Phantom Gundam in this set is almost identical to the original and the Ghost Gundam, with only minor differences in details like the legs, thrusters, and backpack. The black forehead is the most noticeable change in coloring.

Display and Playability

The large display base allows for stable exhibition even in the more complex configurations like the Mirage Bird towing the Anchor. The set offers a high degree of playability, with multiple transformation options and plenty of effect parts to create dynamic displays.

Summary

The ROBOT Damashii Phantom Gundam V2/V2 Kai Convertible Set offers excellent value with its range of new weapons and options, allowing fans to recreate both the V2 and V2 Kai from Crossbone Dust. Despite sharing most of its design with the original Phantom Gundam and Ghost Gundam, the set's additional weapons and transformations make it highly versatile and enjoyable for fans. The abundance of effect parts and the ability to transform into different modes ensure a high level of playability. Given the continued success of bringing MS units from non-animated sequels like Ghost and Dust to life, it will be interesting to see if variations like the Anchor or Blanc Phantom get their own releases in the future.