REVIEW MG 1/100 ASW-G-XX Gundam Vidar, Bandai

This is review of Bandai Gunpla MG 1/100 ASW-G-XX Gundam Vidar from Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans series.

Bandai Gunpla MG 1/100 ASW-G-XX Gundam Vidar Review

The MG Iron-Blooded Orphans series has primarily focused on Barbatos variants, but now, out of nowhere, Gundam Vidar has received an MG kit! Priced at 6,600 yen, this model delivers an impressive level of detail and articulation, making it a must-have for fans of the series.

The MG Gundam Vidar kit comes packed with a variety of accessories, including:

Weapons: Rifle, two handguns, Burst Saber, and an extra blade for the saber.
Optional Parts: Swappable cockpit components and hand parts (gun-holding, gripping, and clenched fists).
Additional Inclusions: A Vidar pilot figure and a stand joint for dynamic posing.
For detailing, foil stickers and marking decals are provided, mainly for the twin eyes, sensors, and Ahab Reactor sections.

Frame & Build Quality

Vidar utilizes a Gundam Frame, much like previous IBO kits, but with many newly designed parts. While some components are borrowed from Barbatos, the number of extra frame parts is notable.

The entire frame is faithfully recreated, featuring chrome-plated cylinder parts that add a striking contrast. The twin eyes are made of clear plastic and do not require stickers. The frame is primarily gray, with silver and copper accents enhancing its mechanical look.

Thanks to the intricate cylinder mechanics, movement is smooth but requires careful handling to prevent disassembly.

Aesthetics & Detailing

Vidar's sharp and sleek silhouette differentiates it from its Kimaris Trooper origins. The kit's proportions are refined, giving it a more agile and streamlined appearance.

The cockpit hatch is functional, and you can choose between a normal cockpit or the Alaya-Vijnana Type E system. The front skirt armor conceals a hidden handgun, secured with a slide-lock mechanism.

The side skirts can store the rifle, and the boosters on the rear armor can deploy, enhancing its battle-ready look.

One of the standout features is the third Ahab Reactor, prominently mounted on the backpack. The reactor core is made of clear plastic, giving it a visually striking effect.

Legs & Mobility

Vidar’s legs feature large thrusters on the knees and Hunter Edge blades on the feet, reinforcing its aggressive combat style.

The knee-mounted thrusters have detailed internal mechanisms that are exposed when flexed. The Hunter Edge blades can fully extend.

No hollow parts on the soles, ensuring a high-quality finish. Hip joints have a swing function, allowing for deep stances and dynamic action poses.

The knee articulation is impressive, with a sliding thruster mechanism that prevents parts from colliding when bent.

Weapons & Accessories

Vidar is fully armed, and each weapon is designed for secure handling.

Rifle: Features clear parts for the sensor, a detachable magazine, and panel-lined details instead of seam lines.
Handguns: Larger than previous versions, featuring a blowback slide mechanism for added realism.
Burst Saber: Redesigned grip for better posing, and it includes a blade exchange gimmick to replicate the in-anime unsheathing action.

The kit supports Action Base 5, using a slide-lock system to securely attach it.

Comparison

Comparing this kit to the Full Mechanics Vidar, several improvements are evident:

The proportions are sleeker, with longer legs and a taller stature.
Panel lining and slits across the armor add depth and realism.
Color separation is vastly improved, minimizing the need for stickers.

While some parts like the calf thrusters can be slightly loose, overall, the kit holds together very well. The joints are made entirely of KPS instead of ABS or polycaps, ensuring durability without sacrificing flexibility.

Summary

For those who enjoyed the MG Barbatos series, Vidar’s surprise release is a welcome addition. If this is a sign of more MG Iron-Blooded Orphans kits to come, fans have plenty to look forward to!