REVIEW CAPSULE ACTION Striker Pack, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai action figure Gunpla CAPSULE ACTION Striker Pack from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED series.

P-Bandai action figure Gunpla CAPSULE ACTION Striker Pack Review

The CAPSULE ACTION Striker Pack is an add-on set designed for the CAPSULE ACTION Strike Gundam. It includes a variety of Striker Packs and components, allowing for versatile configurations and impressive display options. Below is an in-depth review of the set's contents, features, and performance.

Set Contents

The CAPSUlE ACTION Striker Pack includes the following items:

Aile Striker
Sword Striker
Launcher Striker
Additional parts for the Multiple Assault Striker (to recreate the Perfect Strike configuration)
Skygrasper unit
Assorted joints and connectors
Display stand
Alternate hands for the Clear Strike Gundam
Stand joints

Skygrasper

The Skygrasper comes as a standalone model that can be displayed separately using the included stand. While the mounting port for the Striker Packs is exposed, the cockpit is made from clear parts, and the molding detail is intricate, giving it a polished look.

Striker Pack Configurations

Aile Striker

When combined with the Strike Gundam, the Aile Striker recreates the iconic Aile Strike Gundam.
The lower thrusters are ball-jointed, providing moderate adjustability, while the wings remain fixed.
The beam sabers are non-detachable as they are integrated with the wing racks.

Sword Striker

The Sword Striker features the Schwert Gewehr, which can switch to a beam blade configuration with interchangeable parts.

Accessories include a Midas Messer with beam blade effects. The Panzer Eisen is mounted using the stand’s connection port, which temporarily disables the stand function.

Launcher Striker

The Launcher Striker boasts the Agni Hyper Impulse Cannon, attached to the rear-mounted backpack.
The cannon arm has multiple articulation points, allowing the Strike Gundam to grasp the grip for dynamic poses.
Shoulder weapon pods are affixed to the right side.

Perfect Strike

The Aile Striker can be modified with parts from the set to form the Multiple Assault Striker, enabling the recreation of the Perfect Strike Gundam configuration.

Despite the added bulk, the Strike Gundam can maintain a balanced pose when used with the stand.

Included Clear Strike Gundam

The set also includes a Mechanical Clear version of the Strike Gundam.
This variant is distinct from the Black Clear Strike released as part of the gacha series.
Although its inclusion enhances the set’s overall value, it might not appeal to all collectors.

Build Quality and Aesthetic

Detailing and Paintwork

The Striker Packs are well-detailed, with sharp molding and precise paint applications. Color separation is excellent, particularly on key accessories like the Schwert Gewehr and Agni Cannon, which enhances their visual appeal.

Interchangeability

The Striker Packs can be swapped easily, allowing for seamless transitions between configurations. However, the Sword Striker’s Panzer Eisen attachment can obstruct the stand port, requiring adjustments during display.

Articulation and Posability

The Strike Gundam retains excellent articulation, enabling natural poses for each Striker Pack configuration:

Aile Strike: Allows for dynamic flight poses, with a secondary stand port under the Aile unit for stability.
Sword Strike: Features mid-sized accessories like the Schwert Gewehr, offering impressive visual impact without compromising balance.
Launcher Strike: Provides a large-scale look with the Agni Cannon, which can be held naturally due to the flexible arm articulation.

Display Options

The set emphasizes versatility, with multiple display possibilities:

Skygrasper Standalone: The Skygrasper can be displayed independently, mounted on the included stand.
Striker Pack Showcase: Each pack can be displayed separately or attached to the Strike Gundam for dynamic presentations.
Perfect Strike Gundam: A highlight of the set, this configuration is both imposing and intricately detailed.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Highly detailed sculpting and paint applications.
Versatile configurations, including Perfect Strike Gundam.
Additional Skygrasper adds value and display options.
Striker Packs attach securely and swap easily.
Excellent articulation on both Strike Gundam and Striker Packs.

Cons

The Clear Strike Gundam may not appeal to all collectors, contributing to the set’s higher price.
The Sword Striker disables the stand port, limiting display options.
The set’s price is comparable to older ROBOT Spirits figures, which may seem steep for a capsule-based lineup.

Summary

The CAPSULE ACTION Striker Pack successfully brings versatility and quality to the CAPSUlE ACTION Strike Gundam series. The inclusion of multiple Striker Packs, a standalone Skygrasper, and additional accessories ensures excellent value for fans of the SEED universe. While the price and inclusion of the Clear Strike may be divisive, the set excels in detailing, articulation, and overall presentation.

For collectors looking to elevate their Strike Gundam display with diverse and iconic configurations, this set is a worthy addition.