REVIEW BEST MECHA COLLECTION 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam [ REVIVAL Ver. ], Bandai

This is review of Bandai Gunpla BEST MECHA COLLECTION 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam [ REVIVAL Ver. ] from Mobile Suit Gundam series.

Bandai BEST MECHA COLLECTION 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam [ REVIVAL Ver. ] Review

The Best Mecha Collection RX-78-2 Gundam (REVIVAL Ver.) is a revival of the classic Gundam kit, updated with modern technology while preserving the retro look and feel of the original. Both the packaging and instruction manual are designed to evoke the nostalgia of the old kit. This model is priced at 1,320 yen.

The kit includes the following accessories:

Beam Rifle
Beam Saber
Beam Saber Grip
Shield
No stickers or extra parts are provided.

Design and Build Quality

This model faithfully replicates the proportions and balance of the original Gundam kit, while benefiting from advancements in modern kit-building technology. The kit's molded colors have improved significantly from the original, which was molded entirely in white. Thanks to advancements in part separation and structural design, this kit now comes in vibrant, pre-colored plastic. It also features touch-gate technology, allowing for assembly without the need for nippers.

Construction Details

The construction feels inspired by the Entry Grade kits, with part separation techniques that allow for color representation with fewer parts. Black lines are represented through shadow casting, and the overall joint structure is simple. The joints use KPS plastic, and no polycaps or ABS parts are included.

The iconic V-fin on the head and chest is molded in color, minimizing the need for paint. The only area that might require additional painting is the ducts on the cheeks.

Head and Upper Body

The head features twin eyes and a helmet design similar to the Entry Grade kits, though the details have been sharpened with modern sculpting techniques. The helmet is molded as a single piece to prevent visible seam lines. The yellow on the Vulcan cannons is also color-molded, showcasing the evolution in molding technology.

The torso has a wide, sloping shoulder design, and key elements like the chest vents and V-fin are rendered in separate parts for enhanced detail.

Backpack and Arms

The backpack has the now-standard two-hole configuration, allowing for easy attachment of various accessories. The beam sabers can be detached by cutting the connecting pieces, and saber grips can be attached to the hands.

The arms feature ball-jointed (BJ) connections, but the design of the shoulder joints mimics the look of the original kit. While the wrist joints are updated for more movement, the swing gimmick in the legs is omitted, keeping the build simple.

Legs and Articulation

The legs have a smooth curvature with clean line connections, and while seam lines are visible on the thighs and calves, they are minimized from a front view. The ankles have ball joints, allowing for slightly improved movement, though the lack of outward hip rotation limits poseability.

Comparison with the Original Kit

The overall proportions and details of this kit remain true to the original Gundam model. However, the color separation is vastly improved, and the sculpted details are much crisper. The visible seam lines are less prominent, resulting in a more refined build.

Weapons and Poseability

The beam rifle is molded in gray and requires painting for the scope. The grip is a simple rod, with no movable parts. The hand holes are narrower than 3mm, so it may not be compatible with accessories from other kits.

Posing options are limited, similar to the original kit. The waist is fixed, and while the arms can lift to about 90 degrees, the shoulders have very limited swing motion.

Shield and Beam Saber

The shield is held by the wrist and maintains stability when posed. The beam saber is quite short and lacks color separation, resembling more of a police baton than a saber. The grip, however, can accommodate blades from other kits, allowing for customization with clear parts.

Summary

While the articulation remains limited, the Best Mecha Collection RX-78-2 Gundam (REVIVAL Ver.) offers a refreshing blend of retro design and modern kit-building techniques. The nostalgic aesthetic paired with updated molding and part separation makes this kit a fun addition to any collection, especially when displayed alongside newer models like the HGUC Gundam, EG Gundam, or RG Gundam Ver.2.0.

Though the kit may not be ideal for dynamic posing, it successfully showcases over 40 years of evolution in model kit technology, making it a great choice for fans who appreciate both history and craftsmanship.