REVIEW RG 1/144 ZGMF-56E2/γ Blast Impulse Gundam Spec II, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla RG 1/144 ZGMF-56E2/γ Blast Impulse Gundam Spec II from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM movie.

P-Bandai Gunpla RG 1/144 ZGMF-56E2/γ Blast Impulse Gundam Spec II Review

The RG Blast Impulse Gundam SpecII is a new kit in Bandai’s RG lineup. Priced at 4,400 yen, it’s a Premium Bandai exclusive. The package comes in a monochrome style, but part of the manual is colored, though it does not include any detailed information about the unit itself.

The kit comes with a wide array of accessories, including a high-energy beam rifle, shield, prototype 35-Type modified railgun, mounting joint for the railgun, and a right gun hand. It also features four interchangeable hands (with and without peg holes), open hands, a Silhouette Flyer, landing gear and missile launcher for the Core Splendor, a stand joint, and two effect parts for the Defiant Beam Javelin. As expected with RG kits, it comes with realistic decals to enhance the model's appearance. Additionally, the C runner is provided in two color variations to accurately recreate the unit's color scheme, which leads to an abundance of extra parts.

Design and Aesthetic

The Impulse Gundam has seen various RG releases, including the Force and Sword versions, but the Blast Impulse Gundam SpecII is now available ahead of the standard Blast version. The base model is largely reused from previous releases, but the Blast Silhouette is recreated with new parts. The kit is designed with the usual RG flair, adding details that give it a dynamic, eye-catching appearance. Notably, the railgun featured in the show is included in this release.

Color Changes and Design Elements

Unlike the standard Blast Impulse, the SpecII version features updated colors due to a new battery system, turning the white parts into a light green, giving the entire unit a predominantly green tone. This matches well with the Blast Silhouette, which is geared toward long-range artillery battles. The new silhouette features intricate RG-exclusive gimmicks, providing a high level of detail.

Despite the large size and weight of the Blast Silhouette, it supports the unit’s stability by touching the ground. However, the kit can also stand independently without the silhouette for added display options. The kit’s color separation is well done, with vibrant yellow sections on the chest and knees, and the frame's exposed areas are properly colored. The lines on the Blast Silhouette are recreated using separate parts.

Close-ups and Gimmicks

The head of the Blast Impulse SpecII stands out due to its light green helmet, giving it a more subdued look. The face and antenna are sharply defined, but care is needed as the antenna is very thin and fragile. The chest uses an Advanced MS Joint in the RG frame, with limited use of ABS plastic. The joints are stable, and none are prone to falling apart.

The cockpit opens, and the side armor conceals a folding laser. The arms are built without seam lines and feature detailed color separation. The primary green color uses multiple shades, adding depth to the armor. The forearms can still roll as before, and the shield is easy to pose.

Leg and Arm Movement

The waist armor is reinforced, and the hip joints can swing downward for added flexibility. The legs are shaded with various green tones, and seam lines are hidden well. The ankles have no hollow spaces, and the toes can move due to the transformation mechanism.

Blast Silhouette and Heavy Weapons

The new Blast Silhouette features the massive M2000F Cerberus high-energy long-range beam cannons. These cannons are highly detailed, with no visible seam lines, thanks to recessed and molded panel lines. The rear thrusters are packed with intricate details, and the central thruster is fully movable.

The arms holding the Cerberus cannons are well-constructed, featuring cylinder-like details and a locking mechanism that enhances stability. The arms use ball joints, allowing for angle adjustments. The MMI-M16XE2 Deluge super high-velocity railgun is also a highly detailed piece, with an open barrel for added realism.

Additional Features and Comparisons

The M2000F Cerberus cannons can be extended, and their covers open simultaneously, thanks to a unique RG gimmick. The MA-M80 Defiant Beam Javelin, which was previously only molded in the HG version, now has a removable grip and can be held by the figure.

The missile launcher on the Core Splendor is well-molded, and the multiple moving parts make for fun interaction. The range of motion remains high, allowing for chest swings and large shoulder movements, though the silhouette limits some shoulder articulation. The lower body offers good flexibility with hip-slide mechanics, allowing easy leg lifts and stable ground contact.

Comparison with RG Force Impulse Spec II

Compared to the RG Force Impulse Spec II, which only had subtle color adjustments, the Blast Impulse Spec II stands out with its complete shift to a green color scheme, creating a significantly different visual impact.

Stability and Joints

The arm joints hold the railgun securely, and the thicker ball joints of the Cerberus cannons ensure firm support, even during dynamic posing. Over time, it’s uncertain how well the joints will hold up, but for now, the kit remains stable.

Summary

The RG Blast Impulse Gundam SpecII is a well-rounded kit that builds upon the success of previous RG Impulse models. While the base model remains unchanged, the new color scheme and the addition of the Blast Silhouette bring a fresh look to the kit. The oversized Cerberus cannons and detailed railguns are impressive, and the kit’s numerous gimmicks provide plenty of playability. Fans of the Impulse series or those looking for a dynamic artillery-focused model will find this kit to be a worthwhile addition to their collection.