REVIEW RG 1/144 ORB-01 Akatsuki Gundam [ Oowashi Sky Pack ], Bandai

This is review of Bandai Gunpla RG 1/144 ORB-01 Akatsuki Gundam [Oowashi Sky Pack] from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny series.

Bandai Gunpla RG 1/144 ORB-01 Akatsuki Gundam [Oowashi Sky Pack] Review

The iconic Akatsuki Gundam from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny makes its stunning debut as a Real Grade (RG) kit, equipped with the Oowashi Sky Pack for atmospheric combat. This beautifully designed model kit, featuring dazzling gold-plated armor, is priced at 8,800 JPY, making it a premium addition to any collector's lineup. Let’s dive into the details of this highly anticipated release!

Key Features and Accessories

Included Accessories:

72D5 Beam Rifle "Hyakurai"
71 Prototype Shield
Right-hand grip for the rifle, generic manipulators, flat hands, and two beam saber blades.
Action Base 7, included for dynamic posing.

True to RG standards, the kit includes Realistic Decals for extra detailing. A number of parts from RG Strike Gundam are reused in this kit, resulting in some leftover components.

Gold-Plated Armor and Aesthetic Highlights

The Akatsuki's gold-plated armor is truly the star of the show. The plating consists of three distinct types:

Yellow Gold
Copper Gold
Matte Copper Gold

This layered finish adds depth and elegance, capturing the Yata-no-Kagami anti-beam reflective coating from the anime. The unique metallic sheen ensures a standout presence on display but requires extra care during assembly to avoid fingerprints. Using gloves is highly recommended.

To maintain its pristine appearance, under-gates are implemented throughout, ensuring minimal visible gate marks.

Frame and Joint Mechanics

The Advanced MS Joint 3, reused from the RG Strike Gundam, forms the core structure. Its application is limited to key areas such as the arms, legs (excluding the ankles), and waist. The MS Joint system, while innovative, does introduce some stability challenges, particularly under the weight of the Oowashi Sky Pack.

Improvements in Proportions

Compared to earlier iterations like the HG version, the RG Akatsuki boasts refined proportions, with modernized balance and scale that fit seamlessly alongside RG and HGCE kits.

Detailed Sculpting and Enhanced Articulation

Head Unit

The head is meticulously detailed, featuring sharper antennas and precisely color-separated sensors. The twin-eye system is achieved through part separation, eliminating the need for stickers.

Torso Design

The torso incorporates complex panel detailing and an extended rear armor piece. The cockpit can be opened, while the backpack mount is designed to fit RG-specific rectangular pegs.

Arms and Shoulders

The arms have a layered panel structure, with no visible seam lines thanks to recessed molding techniques. Shoulder armor is compact yet robust, and the upper panels feature a unique opening mechanism.

Legs

Longer and more proportionate than before, the legs include movable knee armor and intricately detailed thruster ducts. The calf thrusters are articulated for additional display options.

Feet

Articulated toes and detailed soles add realism, with no unsightly hollow areas. Even the thruster moldings are color-separated for enhanced accuracy.

Oowashi Sky Pack: Design and Features

The Oowashi Sky Pack has been reimagined with sharp, modern aesthetics and increased size, rivaling its HG counterpart.

Color Separation: Achieved through molded plastic, including white, black, and metallic accents.
Enhanced Detailing: Features additional panel lines and molded-in textures, especially on the beam cannons and thrusters.
Articulation: Swinging and rotating mechanisms allow for dynamic poses, while the pack’s nose section can be folded during transformation.

When attached, the Oowashi maintains stability and adds dramatic flair, transforming the Akatsuki into a formidable presence.

Weapons and Equipment

72D5 Beam Rifle "Hyakurai"

The rifle is upsized compared to the HG version, with integrated detailing and sensor color separation. It retains the ability to mount a beam saber, though it now uses a generic blade effect instead of a specialized one.

71 Prototype Shield

The shield features sharper edges and color-separated details, with a robust mount that attaches securely to the forearm. The adjustable joint provides flexibility for dynamic positioning.

Beam Sabers

The 73J2 Twin Beam Saber connects securely in double-saber mode or splits into two individual sabers. The locking mechanism ensures stability without wobbling.

73F High-Energy Beam Cannon

The beam cannon is mounted on an extendable arm, offering excellent range and poseability. The grip can rotate horizontally, allowing for versatile display angles.

Articulation and Poseability

Despite the Oowashi Pack’s weight, the RG Akatsuki retains impressive articulation:

The torso swings freely, enhancing dynamic movement.
Shoulder joints feature wide upward and outward mobility.
Legs have a deep bending range with a responsive knee-linked armor mechanism.
The Oowashi’s wings are fully articulated, allowing for folded or extended poses.

However, the reused MS Joint introduces stability issues, particularly in the hips. Adjustments or reinforcement may be necessary for prolonged posing.

Compared to HG and RG Strike Gundam:

The RG Akatsuki is larger and more refined, with a scale and style consistent with modern kits. The three-tone metallic finish is noticeably richer than the simpler plating on earlier HG releases.

Potential Enhancements

The separately sold Shiranui Pack and Zeus Silhouette from Premium Bandai provide exciting customization options. Combining these packs will allow recreations of Akatsuki’s variations from SEED FREEDOM.

Summary

The RG 1/144 ORB-01 Akatsuki Gundam [Oowashi Sky Pack] is a testament to Bandai’s craftsmanship. With its intricate gold-plated finish, enhanced proportions, and dynamic poseability, this kit delivers on both aesthetics and functionality. While the MS Joint’s stability issues and the potential for loosening parts are minor drawbacks, the overall experience is nothing short of extraordinary.

If you’re a fan of SEED DESTINY or looking for a show-stopping centerpiece for your collection, the RG Akatsuki Gundam is an excellent choice. Prepare to be captivated by its brilliance!