REVIEW HG 1/144 RMS-106CS Hi-Zack Custom [AOZ Re-Boot ver.], Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 RMS-106CS Hi-Zack Custom [AOZ Re-Boot ver.] from A.O.Z Re-Boot: Gundam Inle - Black Rabbit had a Dream series.

P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 RMS-106CS Hi-Zack Custom [AOZ Re-Boot ver.] Review

The HG Hyzak Custom from the A.O.Z (Advance of Zeta) RE-BOOT series has been released as a model kit. It is priced at 3,080 yen and available exclusively through Premium Bandai. The packaging features a simple monochromatic design, and the instruction manual is minimalist, lacking detailed descriptions of the unit, as is customary with the AOZ series.

Accessories and Features

Accessories: The kit includes only a beam launcher as its primary weapon.
Extra Parts: As the model is based on the Hobby Hyzak, some parts, like the leg components, remain unused.

Stickers and Markings

The kit comes with:

Foil stickers for details such as the mono-eye, sensors, and gray thruster ducts.
Marking stickers featuring the Titans emblem.

Design and Aesthetics

The Hyzak Custom is modeled after the original Hyzak but is reimagined for the A.O.Z version, featuring a more massive and rugged design. Key differences include:

Integrated spiked armor with a shield on the left shoulder.
Modified head, waist armor, and knee armor designs.
Removal of certain power pipes and leg fins for a cleaner silhouette.

The overall appearance emphasizes a robust and muscular build, with a small head proportion that enhances its powerful image.

Build and Structure

The kit largely reuses the Hobby Hyzak's frame but incorporates new parts where needed.

Materials: The majority of the kit uses KPS plastic, with some polycaps (PC-001).
Color Scheme: The color palette shifts from the toy-like hues of the Hobby Hyzak to the more standard Hyzak colors, with orange pipes adding a unique AOZ flair.
Details: Internal areas, like the square ducts in the legs, are complemented with stickers. For enhanced realism, painting may be required for areas like the vernier interiors.

Head Unit

The head features minimal changes compared to the Hobby Hyzak but lacks the rear fin.
The mono-eye can rotate and is detailed with a sticker. Black areas around the mono-eye are also achieved with stickers.

Body and Backpack

The torso retains the robust silhouette of the base kit, with new side armor pieces for the waist.
The backpack design removes the twin fin units seen on the original Hyzak for a sleeker look.

Arms and Shoulders

The right shoulder integrates a longer shield-like spiked armor, while the left shoulder gains a new spiked design.
Arm construction remains the same as the Hobby Hyzak, with the absence of power pipes.

Legs and Articulation

The legs adopt new knee armor and omit power pipes, improving knee articulation.
Square ducts and side thrusters are designed as separate parts, while other details are supplemented with stickers.
The joints ensure seamless movement without visible seams, except for the hip joints, which may feel slightly loose due to polycap use.

Weapons and Customization

The Beam Launcher is the sole included weapon. It features:

A collapsible barrel for backpack storage.
A movable sub-grip for two-handed use, though this is challenging due to the Hyzak’s wide shoulders.

Comparisons

Hobby Hyzak: The Hyzak Custom stands out with its spiked armor, different shoulder designs, and reduced power pipes.
HGUC Hyzak: The A.O.Z version presents a bulkier, more aggressive silhouette with pale green tones and unique pipe details.

Summary

The HG Hyzak Custom (A.O.Z RE-BOOT Version) offers a compelling update to the Hobby Hyzak, featuring subtle yet effective redesigns and increased playability thanks to its included weaponry. The muscular proportions and rugged design are standout features, making this kit a valuable addition to the A.O.Z lineup. As a near-modern HG kit, it boasts minimal seam lines and excellent build quality.