Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX: Ultimate Model Kit – Brilliant Build

The Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX 1/100 Model Kit by Bandai Hobby represents a pinnacle in Gunpla engineering, offering an unparalleled building and display experience for enthusiasts. This review delves deep into what makes this particular kit stand out, examining its intricate design, advanced features, and overall value for serious collectors and modelers.

Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX Overview

The Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX is not just another model kit; it represents the pinnacle of Bandai’s Master Grade Extreme (MGEX) line, designed to push the boundaries of Gunpla technology and detail. This particular iteration of the iconic Mobile Suit from Gundam Seed Destiny brings an unprecedented level of complexity and aesthetic appeal to the 1/100 scale.

The MGEX line focuses on a specific theme for each release, and for the Strike Freedom, it’s the “extreme metallic expression.” This theme is vividly brought to life through multiple layers of gold plating and metallic injection parts, creating a visually stunning model that truly shines. The result is a premium product that stands head and shoulders above standard Master Grade kits.

Building the Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX is an immersive journey, requiring patience and attention to detail due to its numerous parts and complex internal frame. The satisfaction derived from seeing the intricate mechanisms come together, culminating in a highly articulated and beautifully finished model, is a core part of its appeal. It’s a celebration of engineering and design.

This kit caters to experienced builders who appreciate fine craftsmanship and are willing to invest time in a challenging yet rewarding project. The sheer number of runners and the delicate nature of some gold-plated parts mean this isn’t an entry-level kit. However, for those with the skill, the outcome is a display piece of museum quality.

The Strike Freedom Gundam itself is a fan-favorite, known for its distinctive design, powerful weaponry, and significant role in the Gundam universe. This MGEX rendition captures all these elements with exceptional fidelity, from its signature “Dragoons” to its iconic beam rifles. Every aspect of the Mobile Suit’s design has been meticulously recreated.

Bandai Hobby’s commitment to innovation is evident in every sprue of this kit. The advanced joint systems and structural integrity allow for dynamic posing, accurately replicating the dramatic action sequences from the anime. This ensures that the finished model is not only beautiful but also highly versatile in display options.

The MGEX line aims to provide an “extreme experience” through its detailed gimmicks and sophisticated construction. For the Strike Freedom, this translates into a build that constantly surprises with ingenious part separation and mechanical intricacies. It’s a testament to how far Gunpla technology has come, offering a truly high-end modeling experience.

Understanding the lineage of this kit helps appreciate its value. It builds upon the success of previous Master Grade kits, incorporating lessons learned and pushing design boundaries further. The MGEX series is essentially Bandai’s answer to the demand for even more detailed and visually impactful models within the 1/100 scale. You can learn more about the Master Grade line and its evolution on the official Bandai Hobby website.

Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX Key Features & Specs

The Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX boasts a remarkable array of features and specifications that set it apart from other Gunpla kits. Its design philosophy centers around delivering an “extreme metallic expression,” which is evident in every component. This focus translates into a model that is both visually stunning and mechanically sophisticated.

Advanced Metallic Expression

One of the most striking features is the multi-layered gold plating. The kit utilizes three different types of gold plating – matte, gloss, and pearl – to create varying textures and depths across the frame and armor. This intricate application of color and finish provides a level of realism and luxury rarely seen in plastic model kits.

Beyond the gold, various metallic injection parts are strategically placed to enhance the overall aesthetic. These parts often appear in areas like joints and internal mechanisms, giving the model a highly mechanical and authentic feel. The interplay of these metallic finishes is a visual feast.

Intricate Internal Frame

The MGEX line is renowned for its highly detailed internal frames, and the Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX is no exception. The skeleton of the Mobile Suit is a masterpiece of engineering, featuring numerous moving parts, pistons, and intricate mechanical details. This frame is a joy to build on its own and provides a sturdy foundation for the external armor.

This complex internal structure is not just for show; it contributes significantly to the model’s articulation and stability. Each joint is carefully designed to support the weight of the armor and allow for a wide range of dynamic poses without compromising structural integrity. The inner frame is a testament to Bandai’s design prowess.

Exceptional Articulation and Gimmicks

The articulation of the Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX is outstanding, allowing for virtually any pose imaginable from the anime. Double-jointed knees and elbows, a highly flexible waist, and shoulder mechanisms provide an extensive range of motion. This flexibility is crucial for recreating iconic action shots.

The kit includes several signature gimmicks. The “Dragoons” (remote weapon pods) on the wings are fully detachable and feature clear effect parts to simulate their deployment. The wings themselves are highly articulated, allowing for various dramatic spread configurations, enhancing the model’s imposing presence.

Weaponry and Accessories

The Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX comes equipped with its full arsenal. This includes two high-energy beam rifles that can be combined into a single long-range weapon, two beam sabers, and a railgun. Each weapon is meticulously detailed and can be posed dynamically with the model.

Additionally, the kit includes a dedicated display base to support the model in aerial poses, especially when the Dragoons are deployed. This base is essential for showcasing the Strike Freedom in its most iconic and dynamic stances, providing stability and enhancing the overall presentation.

Decals and Markings

A comprehensive set of water slide decals and metallic 3D stickers are included, allowing for an even greater level of detail and customization. These markings add depth and realism, breaking up the larger color panels and highlighting specific features. Applying these decals is a meticulous process but significantly enhances the final look.

Specifications at a Glance:

• Scale: 1/100 (Master Grade Extreme)
• Material: PS, ABS, PE, PVC
• Features: Multi-layered gold plating (matte, gloss, pearl), metallic injection parts, highly articulated internal frame, deployable Dragoons with effect parts, combinable beam rifles, display base.
• Approximate Build Time: 25-40 hours (depending on skill and detail work)
• Height: Approximately 18 cm (7 inches)

These features collectively contribute to the Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX being a premium product, offering a building experience that transcends typical model kits. The attention to detail and the quality of materials ensure a stunning finished model that serves as a centerpiece for any collection. The engineering involved in creating such a sophisticated and beautiful model is truly remarkable, solidifying its place as a top-tier Gunpla offering.

Pros & Cons of the MGEX Strike Freedom Gundam

Evaluating any high-end product requires a balanced look at its strengths and weaknesses. The Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX is an exceptional model kit, but it also comes with certain considerations that potential buyers should be aware of. Understanding these aspects helps in making an informed purchase decision.

Pros:

• Unrivaled Aesthetic Appeal: The multi-layered gold plating is truly breathtaking, offering a depth and shine that photos often struggle to capture. This metallic expression elevates the model from a toy to a display art piece. The varying gold tones add incredible visual interest.
• Exceptional Detail and Engineering: From the intricate internal frame to the precise part separation, the level of detail is astounding. Every component feels thoughtfully designed, contributing to a cohesive and realistic portrayal of the Mobile Suit. The engineering ensures both complexity and structural integrity.
• Dynamic Articulation and Posing: The advanced joint system allows for an incredible range of motion, making it highly poseable. Recreating iconic action scenes from Gundam Seed Destiny is effortless, and the model maintains stability even in extreme poses. This flexibility is a major highlight.
• Rewarding Build Experience: While challenging, the building process is incredibly satisfying for experienced modelers. The complexity means a longer build time, but each step reveals more of Bandai’s ingenious design. It’s a journey of discovery and craftsmanship.
• Comprehensive Accessories: The inclusion of all signature weapons, clear effect parts for the Dragoons, and a robust display base ensures a complete package. These accessories enhance both the playability and display potential of the model significantly.
• Premium Quality Materials: The plastics used are high-grade, and the gold plating is durable, provided care is taken during construction. This ensures the model will look fantastic for years to come, resisting common issues like fading or discoloration.

Cons:

• High Price Point: At its premium price, the Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX is a significant investment. This can be a barrier for casual builders or those on a tighter budget. It’s priced as a collector’s item, reflecting its advanced features and materials.
• Challenging Build Difficulty: This kit is not recommended for beginners. The sheer number of parts, delicate gold-plated components, and intricate internal mechanisms require patience, precision, and prior experience with Gunpla. Newcomers might find it overwhelming.
• Potential for Nubs on Gold Parts: As with any plated kit, removing parts from the runners can leave visible nub marks, especially on the gold-plated pieces. Careful nipping and sanding are required, but even then, some marks might be hard to completely hide without specialized techniques. This can be a concern for perfectionists.
• Fingerprint Magnet: The glossy gold and metallic surfaces are prone to showing fingerprints. Handling the model frequently during or after the build might require gloves or regular cleaning to maintain its pristine appearance. This is a minor but noticeable issue.
• Heavy Backpack: The large, articulated wings and Dragoons, while visually impressive, add significant weight to the model’s back. While the joints are robust, long-term posing without the display stand might put stress on the waist joint. The display stand becomes almost essential for dynamic poses.

In summary, the Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX offers an unparalleled Gunpla experience for those who can afford its price and handle its complexity. Its stunning visuals and intricate engineering make it a true masterpiece, but these advantages come with the expectation of a demanding build and careful handling. The model is a testament to Bandai’s ability to push the boundaries of plastic model kits.

Who Should Buy the Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX?

Deciding whether the Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX is the right purchase for you depends largely on your experience level, budget, and expectations from a model kit. This is a premium product designed for a specific segment of the Gunpla community, offering a unique and demanding building experience.

Experienced Gunpla Builders and Veterans

This kit is an absolute must-have for seasoned Gunpla enthusiasts who have tackled numerous Master Grade or Perfect Grade kits before. The complexity of the internal frame, the multitude of parts, and the delicate nature of the gold plating will be familiar territory for them. They will appreciate the advanced engineering and the rewarding challenge it presents.

Veterans will also have the necessary tools and techniques to properly handle the gold-plated parts, minimizing nub marks and ensuring a pristine finish. Their experience will allow them to fully enjoy the intricate build process without becoming overwhelmed, leading to a highly satisfying outcome.

Collectors Seeking a Centerpiece

If you are a collector looking for a truly standout piece to crown your collection, the Strike Freedom Gundam MGEX is an ideal choice. Its