REVIEW HG 1/144 XXXG-01S2 Altron Gundam, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 XXXG-01S2 Altron Gundam from Mobile Suit Gundam Wing Series.

P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 XXXG-01S2 Altron Gundam Review

The HGAC (High Grade After Colony) series continues to release kits steadily, despite some gaps in time. This review focuses on the recently launched Altron Gundam, the fifth unit from the latter half of the TV series. With this release, we now have all five late-model suits represented. Available as a pre-order item from Premium Bandai, it is priced at 2,640 yen. The packaging is monochromatic, with a simple instruction manual that lacks additional explanations about the model.

The Altron Gundam comes with a limited selection of accessories, including the Twin Beam Trident and its storage handle parts, as well as open hands and angled holding hands. Additionally, it features four Dragon Hang extension parts, allowing for some customization and versatility in display options.

In terms of stickers and extra parts, the kit includes foil stickers for various sensors, green markings for the base of the Dragon Hang, and yellow details for the pin holes on the Dragon Hang's fangs. Thanks to the use of components from the HGAC Shenlong, there are notable surplus parts left over after assembly. Furthermore, joint runners from the HGAC Sandrock are included, which adds to the surplus, giving builders extra pieces that can be utilized in other custom projects or simply serve as spares.

Overview of the Altron Gundam

From "Mobile Suit Gundam Wing," the Altron Gundam, piloted by Chang Wufei, has been recreated in HGAC format. This model is a modified version of the Shenlong Gundam. The arms now feature Dragon Hangs that are both smaller and equipped on both arms. The Beam Grave has been transformed into a Twin Beam Trident. The suit is equipped with wing-like Random Binders on its back, emphasizing its enhanced design. Some color elements have also shifted from blue to green.

Design Changes and Visual Appeal

The design of the limbs has undergone significant changes, resulting in a style reminiscent of the Deathscythe Hell and Wing Zero. The legs, in particular, have a bulkier appearance, contributing to a robust overall impression. The kit is based on the HGAC Sandrock series, similar to the other four models, and utilizes a construction style with a combination of KPS (Knot Poly Styrene) and polycaps, employing PC-002 components.

Color Scheme

Most of the model is represented with molded colors. Some areas, such as parts of the Dragon Hang and the black center of the shield, require stickers, while fine details like ducts and thrusters need to be painted. However, the overall color separation is quite sufficient for an HG kit.

Head Design

A close-up of the head shows a comparison with the HGAC Shenlong and the older kits. The design features ear-like details resembling scales, and the helmet has a more organic shape. While the antenna remains the same, changes to the top camera and jawline are notable. There are no visible seam lines, but painting is required for the vulcan area. The twin eyes are molded and not made with clear parts.

Comparison with Shenlong

The body design primarily mirrors the color variations of the Shenlong. The central part of the backpack has been modified to accommodate the Random Binder attachment joint. The two-hole backpack connection remains for easy pack exchanges. The waist has a retractable red armor piece that does not interfere with movement.

Random Binder and Movement

The Random Binder features uniquely shaped wings and can store the handle parts in a folded position. The wings are designed to rotate and swing at the base and open in the middle, with molded separation at the wing edges.

Beam Cannon Features

The beam cannon is finely detailed, with sharp representations of the barrel. It allows for rotation and swinging at the base, as well as bending movements.

Arm Design

Both arms share a common design. The Fighting Sight is also well-colored, with Dragon Hangs equipped on both arms that can fold down for storage. The internal structure remains unchanged, but the detailing differs. The Dragon Hang design has been slightly downsized and rounded, with some details represented by stickers. The wrists do not need to be replaced for the Dragon Hang; each claw section can move independently.

Shield and Armor

The Altron Shield is mounted on the left shoulder, capable of swinging up and down. While the central black section uses a sticker, detailed ducts require painting. The underside of the waist armor features light detailing and backing.

Leg Design

The ankles share similarities with the Shenlong, but the armor shape has changed, with added thrusters on the lower leg, resulting in a rugged design. Areas requiring painting are marked with ▼ moldings, while the seams are molded to reduce visibility. The foot features cutouts in the toes.

Articulation

In terms of articulation, the Altron Gundam generally does not differ significantly from the Shenlong. The shoulders utilize polycaps, but the Dragon Hang limits upward arm movement. The waist and neck have a high degree of mobility, allowing for significant movement. The elbows bend sufficiently, and the front-to-back swing of the shoulders and side-to-side swing of the waist work well.

Comparison with Older Kits

Compared to older kits, the color separation and style have markedly improved. The Random Binder has also been enlarged.

Summary

In summary, the HGAC Altron Gundam showcases significant enhancements over the older kits, featuring many design changes, such as the Twin Dragon Hang and Random Binders, along with alterations in color. The model presents a more robust and powerful aesthetic. While the selection of handheld weapons is limited to the Twin Beam Trident, the Dragon Hang allows for dynamic poses. Overall, the color separation and detailing are impressive. It's exciting to finally see all five late models assembled together!

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