REVIEW MG 1/100 GNY-001 Gundam Astraea + Proto GN Twin Broad Blade, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla plastic model MG 1/100 GNY-001 Gundam Astraea + Proto GN Twin Broad Blade from Mobile Suit Gundam 00P.

P-Bandai Gunpla plastic model MG 1/100 GNY-001 Gundam Astraea + Proto GN Twin Broad Blade Review

From the official side story Mobile Suit Gundam 00P, the MG Gundam Astraea makes its debut. This version includes the Proto GN Twin Broad Blade as part of the set. Priced at 7,150 yen, it is available exclusively through Premium Bandai. The packaging follows the usual monochrome style, and while the manual contains some color pages, it does not include detailed explanations of the mobile suit.

This kit comes with an impressive array of weapons and accessories, including:

GN Beam Rifle
Proto GN Launcher
GN Sword
Proto GN Shield & GN Shield
Proto GN Long Blade & Proto GN Short Blade
Proto GN Twin Broad Blade
GN Beam Sabers (two types)
Various weapon attachment parts, spare beam saber grips, a stand joint, and an Action Base 7.

Additionally, the kit includes foil stickers for condenser and sensor details, as well as water slide decals.

Kit Structure & Design

This MG kit is based on the MG Exia mold, resulting in a large number of leftover Exia parts, though it cannot be assembled into Exia due to some missing components.

Previously, the MG Astraea Type-F was released, and now this white, pre-modification Astraea from Gundam 00P has been made into a kit. As a second-generation Gundam, it predates Exia, a third-generation unit. While it is structurally identical to Type-F, its color scheme is the classic white Gundam look, in contrast to Type-F’s red tones.

The kit maintains the same joint design as MG Exia, utilizing polycap and ABS construction. The movable hands show their age, but hologram parts for cables and excellent color separation improve the overall appearance. The LED chest light-up feature from Exia is also present.

Key features

Clavicle antenna is long and distinct. Perfect color separation, including clear parts for thrusters and chest vents. Head sculpt retains Astraea’s signature design, sharing similarities with Type-F.

Cockpit hatch opens, and includes a figure of Karel, a character from Gundam 00P. Twin LED unit support for drive illumination, though rear thruster lights are dimmer than the front.

Articulation & Mobility

Being based on MG Exia, its articulation remains similar:

Neck and waist have decent forward/backward movement, but the clavicle antenna limits head rotation.
Waist and shoulders have good swing range.
Legs have excellent flexibility, allowing for high kicks and deep kneeling poses.
Feet have toe articulation, and no hollow spaces on the soles.

Weaponry & Equipment

The kit is heavily armed, offering a variety of display possibilities. GN Beam Rifle, a compact rifle that attaches to the forearm, making it easy to pose with.

Proto GN Launcher, this is attached by removing the clavicle antenna. It has a movable grip and detailed panel lines instead of seam lines.

Shields (Proto GN Shield & GN Shield) , two types of shields are included: Proto GN Shield has a flat tip. GN Shield is identical to Exia’s, with a pointed tip.

Both feature a deployable blue section, though they are limited to forearm attachment and rotation.

Proto GN Sword, this rotates to switch modes, with color-separated blades and detailed panel lines. It attaches securely to the forearm.

GN Sword, Same as MG Exia’s GN Sword, with both rifle mode and sword mode. However, the rifle base has a minor seam line.

Proto GN Long Blade & Proto GN Short Blade, Despite the "Proto" label, they are identical to Exia’s GN Long & Short Blades. These lightweight weapons are easy to pose.

GN Beam Sabers & Dagger Blades, A wide variety of melee weapons further expands display options.

Proto GN Twin Broad Blade (New Weapon), A massive, newly designed physical sword with separation and combination features: Can store Proto GN Long & Short Blades. Mounts securely to the arm using a Proto GN Sword-style joint. Enormous, dramatic presence in combined form. Hand grip exists, but due to weight, it’s better supported by a stand.

The massive size and weight make one-handed poses difficult, but using the stand ensures stability.

Comparison with MG Astraea Type-F

While structurally identical, the color difference between the white Astraea and red Type-F is striking. Unless converted to Type-F2, the shapes remain the same.

Summary

The MG Gundam Astraea kit offers a thrilling array of weaponry, making up for the somewhat plain design of the white Astraea compared to the red Type-F. The inclusion of Exia’s GN Sword and the newly designed Proto GN Twin Broad Blade significantly enhances its play value.

The Proto GN Twin Broad Blade is an eye-catching, impactful weapon, capable of separating and combining into different forms. However, the MG Exia’s grip system struggles to hold heavy weapons, making fixed holding hands a desirable addition.

Overall, this kit is a weapon-lover’s dream, allowing for countless display possibilities with its interchangeable arsenal. If you're a fan of the Astraea design and love melee weapons, this Premium Bandai release is worth considering.