REVIEW GUNDAM UNIVERSE RX-78(G)E Gundam EX, Bandai

This is review of Bandai Gunpla Gundam Universe RX-78(G)E Gundam EX from Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance series.

Bandai Gunpla Gundam Universe RX-78(G)E Gundam EX Review

Explore the finer details of the Gundam Universe Gundam EX, a striking mobile suit featured in the Netflix CG anime Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance. This review delves into its design, articulation, and overall performance as part of the Gundam Universe series.

Design and Proportions: Staying True to the Source

The Gundam EX stands out in the Gundam Universe lineup for its subdued approach to the series’ typical "massive" stylization. Its body proportions closely mirror its on-screen appearance, a departure from the exaggerated aesthetics often seen in this series.

Head and Face Design: The V-shaped antenna remains prominent, but the head sculpt leans into a design reminiscent of the Gundam Ez-8, especially in the jaw and cheek areas. Metallic paint enhances the eyes, while precision mold details add to the overall intricacy.

Body Details: True to the anime, the torso maintains accurate width and depth without over-exaggeration. The heavily detailed surface is faithfully recreated, adding to its visual complexity.

Color Accuracy: The darker, almost gray-toned color scheme is impressively replicated, enhancing the suit’s rugged texture and lending it a premium feel compared to the usual bright palettes of the Gundam Universe series.

Articulation and Movability: A Notable Improvement

The Gundam EX introduces subtle changes to its articulation system, making it more dynamic than some of its predecessors.

Torso and Waist: The waist joint allows for slight forward-backward movement and up to 30 degrees of rotation. This added flexibility contributes to dynamic poses.
Neck: Enhanced neck articulation offers a slightly wider range of motion than usual, enabling more expressive head poses.
Arms and Legs: While arms retain their slender profile for the series, the legs—especially the calves—appear slightly bulkier. Unfortunately, the knees cap out at a 90-degree bend, which remains a limitation for kneeling poses.

Accessories: Hits and Misses

The Gundam EX comes equipped with some faithful accessories but misses out on key armaments seen in the anime.

Beam Rifle: Includes fixed details like the foregrip and scope for a sturdy, sharp aesthetic.
Shield: The distinct shape is beautifully replicated, and the grip allows rotation, but it lacks sliding mechanisms for advanced positioning.
Beam Sabers: The sabers feature painted blades with an added touch of color variation at the base, aligning them closely with their in-anime depiction.
Backpack: Unfortunately, the iconic right-side Gatling gun is absent, altering the silhouette compared to the on-screen model. The left-side saber rack holds three removable hilts but offers no adjustable movement.

Comparing with the Gundam Ez-8: Similar Yet Different

When placed alongside the Gundam Ez-8 from the same series, the shared design influences are clear, especially in the head and shoulders. However, the Ez-8 features the classic massive stylization, whereas the EX opts for a more proportionate, anime-accurate look.

Action Poses: Playability and Display Options

Thanks to its slimmer build and improved waist articulation, the Gundam EX excels in recreating combat poses:

Dual-Handed Saber Poses: Achievable due to reduced interference around the shoulders.

Dynamic Movements: Its slender build facilitates better motion range for poses like sword slashes and defensive stances, though limitations in knee articulation can hamper grounded positions like kneeling.

Stand Compatibility: The standard stand joint allows for aerial displays using compatible bases, enhancing its versatility.

Summary

The Gundam Universe Gundam EX shines as a well-designed figure that breaks away from the typical stylized norm of the series. Its anime-accurate proportions, detailed sculpting, and dark color scheme make it a standout piece. While the absence of the Gatling gun is a significant drawback, the figure compensates with improved articulation and refined aesthetics.

Price Consideration: Priced at ¥4,950 (compared to the usual ¥3,300), it’s noticeably more expensive. However, the Gundam EX remains a worthwhile choice for collectors who value its rarity and precision craftsmanship.

Recommendation: If you can overlook the missing Gatling gun, the Gundam EX is a solid addition to any Gunpla enthusiast’s collection, offering a faithful representation of the Requiem for Vengeance design.