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100 Executive Drive Unit 1 Sterling VA 20166 United States
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Expert Review
This kit is the HG A-Z Gundam that appeared in Episode 5 of Gundam Build Fighters: Battlogue. It was released as an Amazon exclusive in Japan and as a general retail release overseas — but since it hasn't been reprinted, it's essentially become a true "limited edition" kit.
It's based on the HGUC Zeta Gundam (Gunpla Evolution Project)released in 2017, with a large amount of newly sculpted parts added on top. For a limited release, it actually gets four brand-new runners, which gives it a look that's quite different from the original kit. That said, the basic frame and transformation system are carried over as-is, so the overall quality feel is pretty much on par with the HGUC Z Gundam [G.E.P.]. Since that kit already had some fairly modern engineering behind it, you get great articulation, solid joint strength, and a stable transformation gimmick.
Looking at the design, the backpack has been completely redesigned compared to the Z Gundam, and the shoulders, forearms, head antenna, chest, skirt, and thigh armor have all been remodeled. Compared to the classic Z Gundam design, it definitely has more of a Build series vibe to it. The Waverider form has also changed dramatically from the original silhouette — it's been given a much sleeker, more refined look. All that new sculpting really does give it a fresh, distinctive visual identity.
For weapons, you get two Hyper Mega Launchers, an A-Z Beam Saber Shield, and a beam saber. The two Hyper Mega Launchers can be combined into a Twin Hyper Mega Launcher, and you can also mount them on the backpack to set up Prime Cannon Mode. There's also a beam part reused from the HGAW Gundam Double X, which is used to attach to the A-Z Beam Saber Shield. So not just the main body, but the weapons have been fully remodeled as well.
All in all, this is a really nice Build-style remodel of the HGUC Z Gundam [G.E.P.]. Both the looks and the build quality are excellent, so it's a shame it got buried as a limited release. With this much new sculpting poured into it, it would've been great if it had come out as a regular retail release so more people could get their hands on it easily. :-)
