REVIEW FM 1/100 GAT-XX370 Boost Rider Gundam, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla FM 1/100 GAT-XX370 Boost Rider Gundam from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED ECLIPSE series.

P-Bandai Gunpla FM 1/100 GAT-XX370 Boost Rider Gundam Review

The FULL MECHANICS 1/100 Boost Raider Gundam, a new addition to the Gundam SEED ECLIPSE series, brings an exciting evolution to the Full Mechanics 1/100 kit lineup. Retailing at ¥6,820, this model kit blends intricate details, innovative engineering, and striking design.

Packaging and Accessories

The packaging is minimalist, but the instruction manual includes partial color sections and detailed descriptions of the mobile suit. Accessories are streamlined and include:

Two "Zarathustra" combat claws
A right-hand grip for the gun
Two types of stand joints

The kit comes with foil stickers for sensors and the Mimir weapon ports, as well as marking stickers for added customization.

Key Features and Design Overview

The Boost Raider Gundam integrates elements from the late-stage GAT series, merging the capabilities of three advanced mobile suits. Its design is inspired by earlier kits, such as the Full Mechanics Raider Gundam, while incorporating distinctive weaponry from the Calamity (Schlag cannons) and Forbidden (Eckzahn railguns), resulting in a fully loaded model. The wings have been enlarged, and the head features the striking "Mimir" optical weapon unit, resembling a regal pompadour.

Build Quality and Articulation

The kit borrows parts from both the Raider and Calamity models, with new additions enhancing its functionality. The structure relies entirely on KPS joints, avoiding the use of polycaps or ABS, ensuring smooth articulation and stability. Despite the significant volume of weapons, the Boost Raider Gundam maintains its balance, although long-term display benefits from using a stand.

Transformability remains intact, allowing the model to shift into MA (Mobile Armor) form. The design accommodates heavy weaponry while offering reasonable articulation for dynamic poses.

Color Scheme and Detailing

The kit adopts a vibrant light blue and blue color scheme, deviating from the darker hues of the standard Raider Gundam. Most color separation is achieved through molded parts, with stickers limited to small details like sensors. The molded pieces are sharp, with intricate detailing in ducts and vents.

Weaponry Highlights

Zarathustra Combat Claws: Mounted on forearms but also usable as hand-held weapons. They can be folded into dagger-like forms.
88mm Railgun Eckzahn: A sleeker variant of Forbidden's weapon, with adjustable rails.
125mm Dual High-Energy Beam Cannon Schlag: Lifted from Calamity, this iconic weapon maintains its imposing presence and detailed construction.
Mimir Optical Weapon Unit: Adds visual impact and functionality by enhancing the Zorn mask cannon.

Transformation and Display

The transformation to MA mode mirrors the original Raider Gundam’s design. However, additional weapons and enlarged wings amplify the overall silhouette, emphasizing its predatory appearance. Despite the complex arrangement of parts, the transformation is stable and satisfying.

Comparisons and Final Thoughts

Compared to its predecessor and counterparts like Calamity and Forbidden, the Boost Raider Gundam stands out with its sheer volume of features and weapons. The inclusion of all these elements results in a unique, powerful kit, albeit with some challenges in achieving seamless poses due to part interference.

Summary

The FULL MECHANICS 1/100 Boost Raider Gundam embodies the ultimate "all-in-one" concept, combining features from several iconic mobile suits. Its numerous weapons, intricate design, and transformable MA mode deliver an engaging build and display experience. Though some limitations arise from the dense array of parts, this kit remains a fantastic addition for fans of Gundam SEED ECLIPSE and Full Mechanics collectors alike.