The MG Gundam Providence 1/100 is an impressive addition to Bandai’s Master Grade lineup, offering a faithful and detailed representation of one of the most iconic mobile suits from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED. Originally released in 2017, this kit has earned a special place in the hearts of fans thanks to its imposing design, structural complexity, and ability to capture the essence of the Gundam Providence. In this review, we will explore every aspect of the model, from its engineering to its aesthetics, highlighting why this kit is a gem for collectors and builders alike.
Design and Overall Aesthetics
The Gundam Providence features a design that evokes strength and authority. Its robust proportions, combined with its bluish-gray and dark red color scheme, give it an intimidating presence in any collection. Bandai has done an exceptional job translating the original design from the animated series into a three-dimensional model that not only remains faithful to the source material but also enhances certain details to make them more realistic and sophisticated.
One of the standout features of the kit is the DRAGOON System, which consists of multiple pieces mounted on the Gundam’s backpack. These units are not only visually striking but also fully articulated, allowing for a variety of dynamic poses and effects that replicate the missile-guided attacks from the series. The combination of translucent and opaque plastic in these areas results in a visually appealing finish.
In terms of surface details, the model includes embossed panels, additional panel lines, and stickers that enhance the level of detail. Bandai has also incorporated color-molded pieces, reducing the need for painting to achieve an impressive result.
Build and Assembly
The MG Gundam Providence is a kit that offers an ideal balance between challenge and accessibility. Its assembly is slightly more complex than that of an average Master Grade due to the number of parts in the DRAGOON System and the additional joints required to support its weight. However, Bandai’s engineering ensures the process is intuitive and enjoyable.
One of the most notable features is the fully functional inner skeleton. This internal frame not only provides stability to the model but also allows for a wide range of movements and poses. Each part of the assembly is carefully designed to ensure that the pieces fit securely, minimizing the need for glue or additional adjustments.
A potential challenge for some builders is balancing the model. Due to the size and weight of the DRAGOON System, the Gundam Providence can be a bit back-heavy, requiring careful adjustments when posing. However, Bandai has included a display base that solves this issue, enabling aerial poses that truly showcase the mobile suit’s power.
Articulation and Poseability
The MG Gundam Providence offers surprising poseability for a model of its size. Thanks to its advanced inner skeleton, the joints are firm and stable, allowing for a wide range of movements without compromising the structure. The arms, legs, and torso have enough range of motion to recreate the iconic combat poses from the series.
The DRAGOON System is a true highlight in this regard. Each unit is mounted on articulated arms that can extend and rotate in various directions, enabling dynamic scenes where the guided missiles surround the enemy. Additionally, the included base facilitates more complex displays by making these pieces appear to be in mid-flight.
However, it is worth noting that the weight of the DRAGOON System can limit certain poses if the support base is not used. This is a minor compromise considering the magnitude of the design and the included solutions.
Accessories and Extras
The Gundam Providence comes equipped with a generous array of accessories, making it even more appealing to collectors. Key items include:
- MA-M221 "Judicium" Beam Rifle: A formidable and well-detailed piece that fits perfectly with the overall design of the model. It includes options for shooting effects that enhance display possibilities.
- Shield System: This shield is not only visually impressive but also designed to be functional, with articulation points that allow for customized positioning.
- Display Base: An indispensable accessory for this kit, as it enables aerial poses and compensates for the weight of the DRAGOON System.
- Stickers and Decals: Includes both standard stickers and water slide decals, allowing builders to customize the level of detail according to their preferences.
Material Quality and Durability
The plastic used in this kit is of high quality, ensuring that the pieces are sturdy and easy to work with. The connections between parts are firm, minimizing the risk of pieces coming loose during assembly or display. Additionally, the joints are designed to support the weight of the model without becoming loose over time.
The use of translucent pieces in certain areas, such as sensors and beam effects, adds an extra touch of realism to the kit. However, it is advisable to handle the model with care, especially when adjusting the DRAGOON System pieces, as some connections may be delicate due to their detailed design.
Comparison with Other Kits
Compared to other Master Grade kits from Gundam SEED, the Gundam Providence stands out for its complexity and presence. While models like the MG Freedom Gundam or the MG Strike Gundam offer lighter and more streamlined designs, the Providence focuses on robustness and detail, making it a centerpiece in any collection.
In terms of price, the MG Gundam Providence is slightly more expensive than other kits in the same lineup. However, the number of accessories, the level of detail, and the overall quality fully justify the cost.
The MG Gundam Providence 1/100 is a kit that encapsulates everything that makes the Master Grade line so beloved by Gundam fans: intricate details, faithful design, impressive poseability, and a satisfying building experience. While it may present some challenges due to the weight of the DRAGOON System, the included solutions make these issues easily manageable.
If you are a fan of Gundam SEED or simply looking for a model that combines impactful design and technical challenge, the MG Gundam Providence is an exceptional choice. Its imposing presence and ability to recreate iconic scenes make it an essential addition for any collector or experienced builder.