REVIEW ROBOT Spirits [SIDE MS] MSJ-R122 Demi Barding Ver. ANIME, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai action figure Gunpla ROBOT魂 Spirits <SIDE MS> MSJ-R122 Demi Barding Ver. ANIME from Mobile Suit Gundam The Witch from Mercury series.

P-Bandai action figure Gunpla ROBOT魂 Spirits <SIDE MS> MSJ-R122 Demi Barding Ver. ANIME Review

This review highlights the ROBOT Spirits Demi-Barding ver. A.N.I.M.E., a model that features distinct detailing and accessories true to its on-screen depiction. With its subtle, mass-produced look and color scheme, Demi-Barding brings a unique aesthetic to the Mobile Suit Gundam collection, especially for fans of the Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury series.

Overview and Design

The Demi-Barding features a straightforward, blocky form with a plain yet rugged design typical of mass-production models. Its overall proportions and subdued color scheme closely resemble the original series, making it a faithful recreation of its on-screen appearance.

Head and Camera

The head design is kept very simple. The main camera is painted with metallic tones, while the surrounding green uses clear parts, which give it a layered, translucent look. This adds depth, enhancing the model's realism.

Antenna and Body Structure

The antenna is thin and sharply sculpted. The body itself has a blocky form with many flat planes, contrasting with sleeker designs like the Aerial. With limited color variety, the Demi-Barding achieves a minimalist aesthetic typical of mass-produced mobile suits.

Waist, Arms, and Legs

Details on the waist area are well-balanced, avoiding any overly plain areas. The limbs—thick and robust—are accurately proportioned to the anime, with large forearms and wrists giving the model a powerful, sturdy appearance. The side boosters on the legs are flexible, able to rotate and move up or down. Beam sabers can be stored here and detached as needed.

Backpack and Articulation

The model comes equipped with the Baoli Pack, a unique backpack unit with a dome-shaped sensor. This pack includes two beam cannons that are movable and can be directed forward. Each side is connected with a ball joint for added flexibility. An attachment cable and a stand for the pack are included, allowing for dynamic poses that resemble flight.

High Articulation Range

The neck and waist joints allow for considerable movement, enabling swings and rotations. The shoulders can be lifted to a horizontal position, and the elbows bend approximately 90 degrees. The knees have a deeper range of motion, and the hip joints are pull-out style, allowing for broad lateral movements and high stability.

Accessories and Full Equipment Display

The model includes a “Beam Rifle Plus,” which attaches to both the forearm and wrist for secure positioning. Just like in the anime, it can be held by the barrel, and its foregrip is movable. The Baoli Pack has two beam cannons, adjustable and designed for forward-facing poses, which add an aggressive look to the display.

Mini Figures of Suletta and Miorine

This set includes mini figures of Suletta and Miorine, which can be displayed on a provided stand. The figures can be positioned to recreate the anime’s memorable final scene, with Miorine appearing to embrace Suletta, bringing a unique emotional element to the display.

Comparison with Aerial and Articulation Quality

At 11,000 yen, the Demi-Barding falls into the higher price range, but the cost reflects the high-quality mini figures and attention to detail. The model’s excellent articulation, especially in the shoulders, allows for poses that replicate the anime, including wielding the rifle with both hands like a blunt weapon.

Baoli Pack and Compatibility

Equipped with the Baoli Pack, Demi-Barding looks ready for deployment. While booster effects from the Mercury Effect set can be attached, they may not match the Baoli Pack's unique shape. Additionally, the beam saber, though unused in the anime, can still be deployed from the model.

Final Impressions and Last Scene Recreation

Finally, the set includes mini figures for recreating the closing scene of The Witch from Mercury, a thoughtful addition that enhances its collectible value.

Summary

Overall, the ROBOT Spirits Demi-Barding ver. A.N.I.M.E. stands out with its faithful proportions, color accuracy, and excellent articulation. The inclusion of the Baoli Pack’s advanced mechanics and the Suletta and Miorine figures shows meticulous attention to detail, especially for fans who want to recreate key moments from the series. While it may be surprising that Demi-Barding was released before other Mercury mobile suits like Pharact or Michaelis, its significance in the final scenes of The Witch from Mercury makes it a valued addition to the ROBOT Spirits line.

The next release in the series will include Lfrith Uru and Lfrith Thorn, hinting at an expanding lineup of ROBOT Spirits models from The Witch from Mercury. It will be exciting to see which other units join the collection in the future.