REVIEW METAL ROBOT SPIRIT [SIDE MS] MDE262S Proud Defender & Effect Parts Set, Bandai

This is review of Bandai Gunpla action figure METAL ROBOT魂 SPIRIT <SIDE MS> MDE262S Proud Defender & Effect Parts Set from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM.

Bandai Gunpla action figure METAL ROBOT魂 SPIRIT <SIDE MS> MDE262S Proud Defender & Effect Parts Set Review

The Proud Defender & Effect Parts Set is sold separately from the Strike Freedom Gundam Type II, requiring both to complete Mighty Strike Freedom. As part of the METAL ROBOT Spirits line, the set is fully painted and features extensive markings, delivering a premium feel with excellent detail.

Side & Rear Views

The wing unit remains slim and doesn't add much bulk. When displayed in mid-air, a dedicated joint is used to attach it to the stand.

The gold parts use a mix of plated, metallic-painted, and molded plastic, but in its default state (with wings closed), the molded plastic sections remain hidden.

Wing Expansion & Articulation

The white wing sections slide to reveal pink frame details. The gold parts feature individual articulation, with small feathers that move independently. However, the connections are loose, and while they don't fall off easily, they can shift or detach with light impact.

The base of the wings can move forward and backward. The attachment points for the Futsunomitama anti-ship sword are also movable.

Included Accessories

Lightning Effect Parts (Type A & Type B)
Display Stand Set

Combining with Strike Freedom Type II

To combine with Strike Freedom Type II, remove its original backpack and attach the included joint. Once Proud Defender is connected, the transformation into Mighty Strike Freedom is complete.

Color & Proportions

The gold tones between Proud Defender and Type II are slightly different due to the matte-finished joints on Type II. However, the white portions match, maintaining a cohesive look.

Expanded Wing Mode

The wings are larger than the original Strike Freedom’s, with more extensive gold plating, making them appear significantly flashier.

Also included is an antenna part for the Disruptor heavy neutron beam cannon, allowing its deployed state to be accurately replicated. The forehead details are intricately sculpted.

Futsunomitama Anti-Ship Sword

True to its on-screen appearance, the sword is long and visually striking. Unfortunately, the grip is the same as the beam saber’s, making it too thick for Futsunomitama, which results in an imperfect fit.

Lightning Effect Parts

One of the standout features of this release, these effect parts take up a significant portion of the package.

Installation Process:

Remove the Proud Defender.
Attach a dedicated joint to the back of the main figure.
Reattach the Defender and connect the effect parts to both sides.

The lower section of the effect parts’ joint includes a stand hole, allowing it to function as a support joint for back-mounted display stands.

The lightning effects use ball-joint connections, allowing adjustable posing.

Compatibility with Rising Freedom

As per the setting, Proud Defender can also be attached to Rising Freedom. Since their silhouettes are similar, the combination does not feel out of place.

Comparisons & Display Possibilities

Mighty Strike Freedom displayed alongside:

20th Anniversary Strike Freedom
Infinite Justice Type II & Destiny Spec II (completing the SEED Freedom trio)

Proud Defender in standalone mode:

Even without the Strike Freedom, deploying its wings makes it look visually striking.

Recreating Iconic Scenes:

Engage sequence with theme music playing.
Discharging electricity using lightning effect parts.
Activating Disruptor cannon.
Dual-wielding Futsunomitama & beam saber.
Repositioning wings to avoid movement restrictions.

Poseability & Stability

The wings can move forward and backward, preventing interference with dynamic poses. Unfortunately, Futsunomitama feels loose, and a dedicated gripping hand would have been preferable.

Unlike the Chogokin version, which struggled with certain poses, this figure can nearly replicate the finishing strike stab.

Summary

The Proud Defender & Effect Parts Set delivers an impressive and faithful adaptation of its on-screen counterpart. The wings are large, the plating is extensive, and the white color is well-matched with Strike Freedom Type II, ensuring a seamless aesthetic.

However, there are some drawbacks:

The loose wing connections are noticeable.
The Futsunomitama grip issue is unfortunate.
The separate sale format makes acquiring the full setup more difficult.

That said, the attention to detail in the wing expansion mechanics and the bold lightning effects add tremendous value. While I’m happy to have the three main SEED Freedom units together, the availability issues and loose parts were frustrating. Hopefully, future releases will improve upon these aspects.