REVIEW RG 1/144 ZGMF-56E2/β Sword Impulse Gundam Spec II, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai Gunpla RG 1/144 ZGMF-56E2/β Sword Impulse Gundam Spec II from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED FREEDOM Movie.

P-Bandai Gunpla RG 1/144 ZGMF-56E2/β Sword Impulse Gundam Spec II Review

From the highly anticipated Gundam SEED FREEDOM, the RG Sword Impulse Gundam Spec II joins the Real Grade lineup after Force and Blast Impulse. This Premium Bandai exclusive kit is priced at 4,180 yen and features a striking red color scheme that sets it apart from its predecessors.

Let's dive into this detailed review and see why this kit is a must-have for Gunpla enthusiasts!

Despite its monochrome packaging, the manual includes some colored sections. However, there's no dedicated lore or background information on the mobile suit.

Included Accessories:

Excalibur Laser Anti-Ship Swords ×2
Prototype 35-Type Kai Railgun
MA-BAR72 High-Energy Beam Rifle
MMI-RG59V Mobile Shield
Hand Parts:

Open palm hands
Right trigger hand
Left standard holding hand
Core Splendor missile launcher
Railgun attachment joint
Chest Flyer joint
Stand joint
Various Beam Effect Parts

The kit also comes with a large number of extra parts, mainly due to color variations in the C runners. As expected, Realistic Decals are included for added detail.

Core Splendor & Transformation

The Core Splendor retains the same transformation mechanism as previous RG Impulse kits, meaning no part-swapping is needed. A 3mm hole on the bottom allows it to be displayed independently.

Landing Gear: Achieved via part-swapping
Cockpit Canopy: Can be opened (no pilot figure included)

Transformation is simple, requiring only the wing to fold and the nose to retract. The MS Joint system, which is becoming rarer in newer RG kits, is used only in the Core Splendor's nose frame and Impulse's chest unit.

Once attached to the torso, the connection is secure, as the nose joint is locked between the wings.

Design & Aesthetics

The RG Sword Impulse Spec II faithfully reproduces its on-screen appearance with its vibrant red VPS armor, making it visually distinct from previous versions.

The Sword Silhouette backpack features large, well-sculpted weapons, giving the kit an imposing presence. The kit follows the same build structure as the previous RG Impulse kits, ensuring high articulation and intricate details. The color separation is impressive, with three different shades of red used throughout the body.

To ensure accurate color distribution, Bandai included two different C runners, allowing precise color replication for small details like:

Yellow V-chest emblem
Knee vents
Boomerang edges
Grip detailing

Even the red grips of the Excalibur swords were created using a new runner rather than relying on stickers.

Head & Body Details

The helmet is now completely red, contrasting with the previous blue Sword Impulse. The antenna remains sharp and thin, requiring extra caution to avoid breakage. Twin Eyes: Made from clear parts for added realism.

Torso & Arm Details

Cockpit hatch: Can open and close. Side Armor: Houses folding laser blades that can be deployed. Shield & Arm Connection: The forearm has a rotation joint, making it easy to position the shield.

Legs & Articulation

Hidden seam lines for a clean build. All joint parts (except MS Joint sections) are KPS, ensuring durability.

Waist armor has an inner frame, allowing the hip joints to drop down for greater mobility. Feet are fully articulated, with no hollow areas, allowing for stable ground poses.

Articulation Range

Shoulders: Extend outward significantly, increasing posing options. Waist: Can slightly bend backward and has a chest swinging mechanism. Hips: Drop-down system allows high leg raises and deep knee bends.

Weapons & Equipment

This kit is packed with impressive weaponry, ensuring dynamic display options!

Beam Rifle (MA-BAR72 High-Energy Beam Rifle)

Movable foregrip & sensor
Seamlines hidden as panel lines

Prototype 35-Type Kai Railgun

Highly detailed with red sensor parts
Can be held securely in one hand
Hidden seams through panel molding

Mobile Shield (MMI-RG59V)

Fully deployable without part-swapping
Easily adjustable thanks to a forearm rotation joint

Beam Boomerangs (RQM60 Flash Edge)

Tip can be removed to attach beam effect parts
Two effect options: Long & Short

Folding Laser Blade

Secure grip system prevents slippage
Small but well-detailed

Excalibur Laser Anti-Ship Swords (MMI-710 Excalibur)

Massive blade length (335mm when combined)
Sharply sculpted with excellent weight balance
Easy to hold with both hands using an alternate gripping hand
New red grip parts for accuracy

Customization Tip: If the forearm joint feels loose, slightly thicken the peg for better stability.

Transformation & Gimmicks

The Impulse Gundam Spec II maintains its split transformation feature, allowing:

Chest Flyer Mode
Leg Flyer Mode

Both transformations are simple and don’t require delicate adjustments. The included Silhouette Flyer also lets you display the Sword Silhouette separately.

Comparison with Other Kits

RG Sword Impulse Spec II vs. RG Sword Impulse, The color swap drastically changes its vibe, giving it a more aggressive look.

RG Sword Impulse Spec II vs. HGCE Destiny Spec II, The HGCE Destiny Spec II is great, but the RG has superior detailing and articulation.

RG Sword, Force, and Blast Impulse Spec II Together, Seeing all three Spec II versions side by side creates a cohesive and visually striking lineup.

Summary

Pros:

Highly detailed with excellent color separation
Great articulation & seamless transformation
Includes all signature weapons
Bold red color gives it a fresh, menacing look

Cons:

Some forearm joints may feel loose (can be fixed easily)
Premium Bandai exclusive, making it harder to obtain

The RG Sword Impulse Gundam Spec II is a must-have for SEED FREEDOM fans and Real Grade collectors. With its intense red aesthetic, excellent articulation, and premium build, it’s one of the best RG kits of 2024!