REVIEW HG 1/144 gMS-Ω GQuuuuuuX, Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 GMS-Ω GQuuuuuuX from Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX.

P-Bandai Gunpla HG 1/144 GMS-Ω GQuuuuuuX Review

The HG 1/144 GQuuuuuuX (Zequax) debuts as the first model kit from the upcoming *Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX* series. Released ahead of the show's launch and priced at 2,200 yen, this kit introduces an intricate, futuristic design with an impressive build process. Below, we break down the highlights of this highly anticipated addition to Bandai’s Gunpla lineup.

Kit Details and Accessories

The HG GQuuuuuuX includes the following accessories:

Weapons: Rifle, small shield, two blade-like weapons, and a heat-axe-style weapon.
Core Fighter Component: A part for the nose section.
Hands: Standard gripping and open-palm options.

Interestingly, the instruction manual does not include names or detailed explanations of the weapons, maintaining the mystery surrounding this new series. No surplus parts are included, and a set of stickers—some potentially revealing plot details—are provided (shown at the end of the review).

The Mobile Suit: Design and Features

A Futuristic Aesthetic

GQuuuuuuX stands out with its intricate armor lines, unconventional shapes, and striking color scheme. The mobile suit features large, flexible thrusters mounted on its backpack for dynamic posing. This complexity is further enhanced by the inclusion of cantilevered joints and bio-mechanical design elements.

Innovative Construction

The kit uses KPS joints, avoiding traditional polycaps or ABS plastic. This updated joint system ensures a sturdy and fresh building experience. However, with its small, intricate parts, the kit feels almost like assembling a Real Grade (RG) model. Care is needed to avoid losing pieces during assembly.

Color and Detail

The color separation is exceptionally detailed for an HG model, with most of the design replicated using molded parts. However, due to the mobile suit's highly intricate color patterns, additional work is required:

Stickers: Cover minor details, such as red highlights and yellow markings.
Painting: Necessary for areas like the back of the thighs, antenna lines, and fine gray accents.

The resulting color scheme provides an authentic representation of the GQuuuuuuX's appearance, though dedicated builders may want to enhance it further with careful paintwork.

Key Components Breakdown

Head

Swappable Parts: Two head variations allow for re-creation of deployed and non-deployed antenna states.

Unique Design: A dual-chin mask and yellow eye lines give it a distinctive appearance.

Paint Recommendations: Areas like the rear gray lines and "V"-shaped antenna details benefit from additional paint.

Torso and Backpack

Dynamic Features: The torso features two ball joints for extensive articulation, while the backpack includes dual thruster units with accordion-style connections, allowing flexible movement.

Build Note: Visible seam lines appear on the thrusters, requiring cleanup for a seamless look.

Arms and Legs

Articulation: Single-axis elbows and cantilevered joints offer impressive flexibility.

Design Details: Open-frame elements in the legs reveal internal structure, contributing to the futuristic vibe.

Painting Needs: Yellow and gray highlights, particularly on the thighs and thruster details, require attention.

Weapons

Rifle: Compact and easy to handle, though simple in construction with some paint required for highlights.

Shield: Features a separate white panel for detailing and a ball-joint attachment for versatile positioning.

Blades: Made with iridescent plastic for a striking appearance. Two are included and can be attached to the waist when not in use.

Heat Axe: A robust design that looks great but lacks the heated blade effect unless painted.

Articulation and Poseability

The GQuuuuuuX’s articulation is excellent, with:

Wide neck movement for dynamic aerial poses.
Adjustable torso and waist joints, enabling deep bends and twists.
Sturdy hip joints and flexible legs that maintain stability even in action poses.

Its compact weapons and flexible shield allow for creative displays without compromising balance.

Summary

The HG GQuuuuuuX offers a satisfying and intricate build, standing out as one of the most detailed High Grades to date. Its unique design, coupled with the mystery of the new series, makes it an exciting addition to any Gunpla collection. While its complexity and paint requirements may challenge beginners, experienced builders will appreciate its ingenuity and aesthetic appeal.

Pros

Exceptional detail and color separation for an HG model.
Innovative cantilevered joints and bio-mechanical aesthetics.
Versatile articulation for dynamic posing.

Cons

Numerous small parts increase the risk of misplacement during assembly.
Significant painting required for full color accuracy.
Some seam lines and sticker reliance for minor details.

The GQuuuuuuX promises a thrilling start to *Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX*. With its bold design and advanced engineering, this kit is both a statement piece and a testament to Bandai’s innovation in Gunpla. Whether you’re a fan of the series or a builder seeking a unique challenge, this kit is a must-have.