REVIEW MG 1/100 Custom Set for MG RX-78-2 Gundam Ver.3.0, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla MG 1/100 Custom Set for MG RX-78-2 Gundam Ver. 3.0 from Mobile Suit Gundam.

P-Bandai Gunpla MG 1/100 Custom Set for MG RX-78-2 Gundam Ver. 3.0 Review

The MG Gundam Ver.3.0 Expansion Set is designed for the MG Gundam Ver.3.0, originally released in 2013. This expansion set, available through Premium Bandai, is priced at 1,650 yen. While the base kit was first released in 2013, it has been recently reissued.

Included Accessories

The expansion set includes the following items:
Hyper Bazooka
Gundam Hammer
Beam Javelin
LED Unit

Since this is an expansion set, the MG Gundam Ver.3.0 kit must be purchased separately.

Decals and Markings

This set includes water-slide decals. Since the MG Gundam Ver.3.0 is based on the life-size Gundam statue, it features numerous intricate markings.

Extra Parts

Some additional leftover parts are included, such as:

Nearly complete Beam Rifle (missing internal scope parts)
Ver.2.0 Saber Grip
Amuro Ray figurine
Core Fighter stand

LED Unit Installation

The LED unit follows the standard design used in Gunpla kits and requires two LR41 batteries. Assembly requires a Phillips-head screwdriver. The LED is installed in the neck area.

Lighting Effect

When activated, the LED illuminates the main camera and twin eyes. Even under bright lighting, the effect remains noticeable. The LED color is yellow.

In dim lighting, the effect becomes even more striking. The light passes through the clear neck part, allowing the head to move freely without obstruction.

Hyper Bazooka

This set includes an additional Hyper Bazooka identical to the one that comes with the base kit. However, a visible seam line appears around the grip area.

Double Bazooka Setup

By equipping both bazookas, the model can replicate the final battle configuration.

This bazooka reuses parts from the MG Gundam Ver.2.0, with the grip modified to fit the Ver.3.0 Emotion Manipulator. This ensures a secure connection, preventing the weapon from detaching, unlike the Ver.2.0 design.

However, over time, joints and armor snap-fit connections may loosen, making posing difficult. A fresh assembly may be necessary for better stability.

Mounting Considerations

While the double bazooka setup looks impressive, it tends to interfere with the mounted shield and rifle on the back. If painting, be mindful of potential paint scratches.

Gundam Hammer

This weapon is a direct reuse from the MG Gundam Ver.2.0. The chain is made of plastic (POM material) instead of metal but maintains a realistic look.

Design Details

The hammer spikes are all separate parts.
The main ball section is split into upper and lower halves, leaving a seam line.
The grip is unchanged from Ver.2.0 and does not fit the Emotion Manipulator peg. However, since the grip is lightweight, the hand can still hold it, though stability is slightly compromised.

Posing Challenges

Since the chain is made of plastic, it does not naturally maintain a rigid pose. A stand may be required to display it in an extended position.

Compatibility with Char’s Zaku

The hammer can be thrown at Char’s Zaku while maintaining an authentic appearance. The original Ver.2.0 weapon design was already well-made, so it still looks great on the Ver.3.0 model.

Beam Javelin

This weapon is also a carryover from the MG Gundam Ver.2.0. However, the beam tip has been changed from a clear colorless piece to a fluorescent clear pink, eliminating the need for painting.

Features and Stability

The beam blade is a separate part, but minor air bubbles were present in some pieces. The javelin connects to the saber grip, which features a peg for the Emotion Manipulator, ensuring a firm hold.

Compared to EG and HG javelins, the beam section is more compact. The MG Gundam Ver.3.0's excellent articulation allows for dynamic two-handed thrusting poses.

Throwing Pose

When recreating a javelin throw, the grip must be held in reverse. This limits the use of the holding peg, making the weapon slightly unstable.

Additional Notes

When using the LED unit, light may leak from the neck area. If this is a concern, applying a light-blocking paint coat may help.

Summary

The MG Gundam Ver.3.0 Expansion Set includes three additional weapons and an LED unit. The extra bazooka allows for the final battle loadout, enhancing display options.

Although all weapons are reused from the Ver.2.0 kit, their quality remains high, and they integrate well with the Ver.3.0 model. The yellow LED is particularly effective, highlighting the twin eyes and main camera while being easy to switch on and off.

Additionally, the included water-slide decals provide a refined look for those who prefer an alternative to standard stickers.

Overall, while this expansion set does not introduce completely new accessories, it enhances the Ver.3.0 experience with well-crafted weapons and an improved lighting effect.