REVIEW METAL BUILD MBF-P02 Gundam Astray Red Frame: PROJECT ASTRAY, Premium Bandai

This is review of P-Bandai action figure Gunpla METAL BUILD MBF-P02 Gundam Astray Red Frame: PROJECT ASTRAY from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: Astray.

P-Bandai Action Figure Gunpla METAL BUILD MBF-P02 Gundam Astray Red Frame: PROJECT ASTRAY Review

This review covers the METAL BUILD Gundam Astray Red Frame -PROJECT ASTRAY-, the second entry in the "PROJECT ASTRAY" line. Building on the evolution started with the Blue Frame, this figure introduces refined leg sculpts based on the Red Dragonics and features an improved waist joint, enhancing its overall articulation while maintaining the Astray line's iconic aesthetic.

Full Body Overview

Much like the Blue Frame from the same line, the Red Frame features revamped legs with a slimmer profile. The waist articulation has also been updated for greater poseability. While some red sections are molded plastic, the majority of the figure is painted, giving it a high-quality, premium finish.

Head Design

The head sculpt remains unchanged from earlier METAL BUILD Red Frame releases, so there's little novelty here. However, the classic look still holds up.

Eyes feature metallic paint, maintaining the line's signature shine. Forehead sensor is a clear part, and the antennae are sharply molded, ensuring detail accuracy.

Torso, Waist, and Limbs

The chest and abdominal sections adopt the updated designs from the Blue Frame -PROJECT ASTRAY-, adding some subtle detail differences.

The arms and waist remain mostly unchanged, while the legs adopt the sleeker Red Dragonics version, giving the figure a more agile appearance.

Backpack & Rear View

As expected from previous releases, the backpack includes a hinge gimmick allowing it to tilt downward. This also supports customization with optional units.

Accessories

Display base
Beam Rifle: Same design as previous Astray releases.

Can be pegged into the side armor via a fold-out pin.

Shield: Comes with a working scope window.

The back features the usual joint system for sliding and gripping options.
Also mountable on the side skirt armor.

Beam Sabers
Gerbera Straight katana:

Beautifully chromed blade.
Realistic hamon (blade pattern) detailing.
Scabbard design and mechanics remain the same as older Red Frame versions.

Though the Flight Unit is not included, the figure's back connector is compatible with previously sold equipment like the Flight Pack or Aile Striker. This opens the door for a variety of loadout options.

Articulation & Engineering

The joint system is identical to the Blue Frame -PROJECT ASTRAY-, ensuring smooth articulation.
Shoulder joints retain their older structure, but they’re still very capable — especially for dynamic two-handed sword poses.
The newly enhanced waist joint offers greater front-back movement range.
Despite not having excellent ankle flexibility, the figure remains stable even in wide stances.

Color & Finish

While mostly consistent with prior versions, the red and white tones have been subtly adjusted, giving this release a refreshed, more vivid feel. The finish is clean, thanks to the high paint ratio and well-executed detailing.

Comparisons

Compared side-by-side with:

Old-format Red Frame Kai: The difference in leg design is very noticeable.
Blue Frame -PROJECT ASTRAY-: They share nearly all the same structural updates, except for their respective equipment loadouts.

Additional Notes

Attaching the sold-separately Flight Unit reveals slight differences in color and material tone, but since it's on the back, the contrast isn't distracting.

With a retail price of ¥36,300, many fans expected the Flight Unit to be included. Unfortunately, the figure only comes with the standard weaponry.

The PROJECT ASTRAY line is now two entries in, and speculation grows around future releases — perhaps Green Frame or even Mirage Frame could make their debut next.

Summary

That wraps up our review of the METAL BUILD Gundam Astray Red Frame -PROJECT ASTRAY-.

If you're already familiar with the Blue Frame from the same line, you'll know what to expect. There's no groundbreaking innovation here, but the refined sculpt, improved articulation, and high paint quality make this a very satisfying release—especially for those who want a cohesive lineup under the PROJECT ASTRAY banner.

The price may feel steep, especially without the extra gear, but for fans seeking a high-end Red Frame that aligns with the modern Astray aesthetic, it still delivers solid value.