REVIEW ENTRY GRADE 1/144 GAT-X105+AQM/E-X04 Gunbarrel Strike Gundam [ Gundam Breaker Ver. ], Gundam Breaker 4 Collectors Edition

This is review of Bandai Gundam Breaker 4 Collectors Edition: ENTRY GRADE 1/144 GAT-X105+AQM/E-X04 Gunbarrel Strike Gundam [ Gundam Breaker Ver. ] from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Series.

Bandai Gundam Breaker 4 Collectors Edition: ENTRY GRADE 1/144 GAT-X105+AQM/E-X04 Gunbarrel Strike Gundam [ Gundam Breaker Ver. ] Review

The recently released game "Gundam Breaker 4" comes with a Collector’s Edition that includes the EG Gunbarrel Strike Gundam (Gundam Breaker Ver.). I purchased the Switch version, priced at ¥13,500 (with a Season Pass, it's ¥17,100; adding the Diorama Pack, it's ¥18,500). Although it’s a special edition kit, the packaging and instruction manual are in color and resemble those of a standard retail product.

Included Accessories and Parts

The kit includes a gatling gun, beam rifle, shield, two armor schneiders, a special edition Gunbarrel Striker with interchangeable parts, four railgun barrels for the Gunbarrel, three spare 3mm pin joints, and a joint that converts a two-hole backpack joint into a Striker Pack joint.

Decals and Extra Components

The kit also features marking stickers to replicate the unique paint scheme of the armor. Extra parts include the backpack from the HG Buster Gundam and some parts from the standard EG Strike Gundam.

Unique Features of the Kit

The EG Gunbarrel Strike Gundam (Gundam Breaker Ver.) included in the Gundam Breaker 4 Collector's Edition is an original-colored kit designed with Mu La Flaga in mind. It features a special edition Gunbarrel Striker mounted on the base of an EG Strike Gundam. The Gunbarrel Striker traditionally resembles the folded nose of a Moebius Zero attached to the back, but this version allows for various combinations and customizations. It can also be equipped with the high-energy beam rifle and 350mm gun launcher from the Buster Gundam.

Modifications and Customization Options

The armor of the Strike Gundam has been slightly modified, with additional 3mm joints added to the shoulders and calves to allow for customization. The Gunbarrel is arranged in a horizontal line on the packaging, with small wings attached to the shoulders. The base of the kit reuses parts from the EG Strike Gundam, but features finely detailed color separation and articulation despite its simple construction. Unlike other kits, it does not use polycaps; ABS plastic is used in the HG Buster parts.

Color Scheme and Detailing

The color scheme of the kit is unique, with a metallic sky blue frame. The traditional red parts are now clear orange, and the blue parts have been changed to purple. The Gunbarrel is also purple instead of the usual orange hues. While the EG base kit provides sufficient color replication, some areas, such as the inside of the thrusters on the back of the main body, may require additional painting.

Close-Up Views

Head Unit: The head sculpt remains unchanged, but the color of the twin eyes and "Igel Stern" has shifted to metallic blue due to the molding color.
Body Unit: There are no structural changes to the body, but the new molding color gives it a fresh appearance. The white parts have a slightly dull light gray tone.
Arm Unit: The shoulder armor has new side armor with a 3mm joint added. Extra parts for the normal shoulder configuration are also included.

Additional Customization and Articulation

This Strike Gundam can have various parts attached to its new 3mm joints, allowing for diverse configurations. The hip joints are BJ types typical of EG kits, with no additional detailing on the inner armor. The leg unit retains the same structure but has added 3mm joints on the outside. Clear parts used in the sole section help reduce the noticeable hollow areas.

The Gunbarrel Striker (Gundam Breaker Ver.)

The Gunbarrel Striker in this version does not transform into support unit mode, and the nose section is missing. However, various customizations are possible by swapping parts. The Gunbarrel itself can be modified to simulate hatch opening and closing, while the railgun barrels are reproduced by attaching additional parts.

Comparison with the HG 105 Dagger’s Gunbarrel Striker

Comparing it with the HG 105 Dagger's Gunbarrel Striker, the details appear nearly identical, but the joints are upgraded to 3mm, making it more user-friendly. The frame parts from the earlier model have been removed, and the nozzle of the thrusters is color-separated with recessed mold lines.

Weaponry and Features

The kit includes parts borrowed from the HG Buster, such as the 350mm gun launcher and 94mm high-energy beam rifle. The beam rifle, now metallic blue due to the frame color, and other weapons retain their molded details and functionality. However, some minor issues, such as the grip becoming loose over time, remain.

Summary

The EG Gunbarrel Strike Gundam (Gundam Breaker Ver.) offers high customization potential with its unique color scheme, additional joints, and interchangeable parts. The design allows for various configurations and creative combinations, especially with other Striker Pack-compatible mobile suits. This special edition kit stands out with its distinct colors and high play value, offering a fresh take on the classic Strike Gundam with a special Gunbarrel Striker configuration.