REVIEW METAL ROBOT SPIRIT [SIDE MS] ZGMF/A-262B Strike Freedom Gundam Type II, Bandai

This is review of Bandai action figure METAL ROBOT SPIRIT魂 <SIDE MS> ZGMF/A-262B Strike Freedom Gundam Type II from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM.

Bandai action figure METAL ROBOT SPIRIT魂 <SIDE MS> ZGMF/A-262B Strike Freedom Gundam Type II Review

The METAL ROBOT Spirits Strike Freedom Gundam Type II features a nearly complete redesign, with newly sculpted parts for the shoulder armor, arms, legs, side, and rear armor. While the core silhouette remains familiar, the overall sculpt is significantly refined.

Back View & Wing Unit

The wing unit remains the same as the standard Strike Freedom. Thanks to the die-cast construction characteristic of the METAL ROBOT line, stability is not an issue, even with the large wings attached.

Head Sculpt & Facial Features

The head is a completely new sculpt, featuring a sharper overall profile, including more defined cheeks and antennas compared to the standard version. Additionally, a new vertical mold detail has been added to the forehead.

The eyes maintain their usual metallic paint application, with meticulous detailing throughout. While the red line under the eyes is slightly misaligned upon close inspection, it's barely noticeable to the naked eye. The deployed antenna parts for the Disruptor function are included with the Proud Defender accessory.

Body & Color Scheme

The torso is newly sculpted, with notable changes such as the repositioning of the abdominal beam cannon, now renamed the Tvashtar High-Impulse Cannon. As expected from the METAL ROBOT line, the entire figure is painted, with a slightly brighter shade of blue compared to the previous version.

Waist & Railgun Mechanism

The waist area has been redesigned with subtle shape changes. The railgun mechanism remains functional, with a sharper and more angular design that follows the updated settings. While the METAL ROBOT version of Strike Freedom already had a more angular aesthetic, the change is not drastically noticeable. However, the sliding gimmick for rear deployment has been removed.

Arms & Legs

The shoulder armor and forearm plating have undergone significant changes, now boasting a more three-dimensional and pronounced design. The thighs, calves, and ankles have also been reshaped. While the joints feature a metallic finish, the color has been toned down to a darker shade, reducing the glossy effect seen in previous versions.

The shoulder markings are asymmetrical, which adds a subtle but unique touch. However, some minor dust and smudges were present, which was a slight disappointment.

Calf Fin Units & Rear Armor

The fin units on the calves remain articulated. Unlike the standard version, where they could be stored inside the leg, they now remain permanently deployed.

The rear armor has been redesigned, while the wing structure remains unchanged, maintaining the same expansion mechanisms as the standard version. The figure also includes cover parts for when the wings are detached, just like before.

Optional Accessories

Included Equipment & Parts

Dragoon joint parts
Display stand set
Beam rifle (same as standard Strike Freedom, with the same connection gimmick)
Railgun (same model as Destiny Spec II, with adjustable foregrip and removable magazine)
Dedicated mounting joints for the side armor
Beam shield (attached by replacing the red part on the forearm armor)
Dragoon deployment joints and support stands

Weapon Mounting Features

The beam rifle can still be combined into a twin-barrel form. Unlike previous versions, the railgun can now be directly mounted onto the side armor.

The railgun can also be mounted on the lower back without needing a joint, but only one is included, despite the anime showing dual-wielding.

Articulation & Poseability

The articulation system is identical to the standard Strike Freedom, ensuring smooth movement. The shoulder joints extend forward by about 90 degrees, making it easy to pose with dual-wielded railguns.

The beam sabers feature painted blades, enhancing their visual appeal. The wings are unchanged, allowing compatibility with the light wing effect parts from the standard version.

Action Poses & Display Possibilities

Railgun Deployment: The railgun cannot be properly aimed while mounted on the waist due to movement restrictions, making simultaneous use difficult.

Dual-Wielding Railguns: Since only one railgun is included, replicating the anime-accurate dual-wield setup requires borrowing from another figure.

Full Burst Mode: The figure retains its impressive display presence, especially with all weapons deployed.

Summary

The METAL ROBOT Spirits Strike Freedom Gundam Type II is a stunningly detailed and well-proportioned update. Even parts that were identical in lore have been given new sculpts, with a notably refined head design. The joints now feature a less glossy metallic finish, which may not appeal to everyone, but the fully painted body and detailed markings enhance its premium look.

Articulation remains excellent, though the absence of dual railguns was a minor letdown. However, the abundance of included weapons and gimmicks makes this figure highly enjoyable on its own.

This release faithfully represents Strike Freedom Type II in its peak form, but since its battle-damaged fusion with the Proud Defender was a key moment in the anime, a damaged version would be an exciting future release.