Zeta Gundam
Hey guys! Apologies for the long absence in you've been following my blog reviews! (Thank you if you do by the way)
I never had any Real Grades before so this being my first one I am going to really lay everything straight out based on my first experience.
What do you think of when Real Grade comes to mind?
Are you thinking of a model capable of realistic detail, features, and gimmicks that could rival a Master Grade?
I'll stop you there. No 1/144 scale could ever truly win against a 1/100. However no High Grade ever had a full inner frame before either. Yes, you heard right. If you're unfamiliar with Real Grades, the Real Grade line takes 1/144 scale models to a whole new level. The Real Grade line is still starting out but there are as of now 13 to choose from and the Zeta is Real Grade #10.
I'll stop you there. No 1/144 scale could ever truly win against a 1/100. However no High Grade ever had a full inner frame before either. Yes, you heard right. If you're unfamiliar with Real Grades, the Real Grade line takes 1/144 scale models to a whole new level. The Real Grade line is still starting out but there are as of now 13 to choose from and the Zeta is Real Grade #10.
Now let's see what's so special about this Real Grade!
Since this is the first real experience I had with a Real Grade I am going to break it all down and compare it with the usual 1/144 High Grades I am normally used to.
The detail on the RG Zeta compared to a HG Zeta is remarkable. The entire model consists of varying small pieces all making up one intricate design. Thus bringing out detail like you've never seen before for a 1/144 scale. The model also comes with stickers used to bring out more detail and add more of a depth. In short it brings out the detail and it makes the model close to realistic as it can get. I don't want to confuse you though. Just because the line is called Real Grade it doesn't mean you're ending up with one realistic finished model. Real Grades feature full inner frames never before seen in 1/144 scale and amazing quality in detail and features. They're like mini Master Grades. 1/144 scale can look good to only a certain level though. It's still a small size to really go to town on.
The markings and with panel lines applied you really see the quality come out from the model. Which is why I recommend you panel line if you don't. The Zeta is most common for its transformation feature however. Bandai doesn't disappoint on that end though because this RG is the first to introduce a fully transformable frame. Thus you can transform it from mobile suit form to wave rider in you're choosing.
In Short
Although the RG Zeta is remarkable for the quality in design and features there is one incredible flaw with it. The frame is very delicate. A 1/144 inner frame can't withstand pressure for a long time and you will eventually stress the frame or particular parts causing a broken model as a result. Many had issues including me in transforming the RG Zeta and ended up stressing or breaking their models. Therefore I am sad to say I cannot really go over wave rider in this review. The RG Zeta I have has stressed shoulder frames so if I attempt a transformation it could result in a break.
How is the posing?
Have you ever seen lightning's photos of his RG models? These models are highly articulate and more advanced than regular HGs. Not only do you get a great quality in detail but the models offer more satisfaction.
The RG Zeta comes with standard beam sabers, rifle, and shield. However the rifle also has a beam effect for added measure of awesomeness. The RG Zeta is capable of also doing a full kneeling pose as you see above. The true way of seeing if a 1/144 scale is good or not sometimes is to see if it can take a knee. At least that's how I test articulation. The RG is capable of more however though so not just a knee pose is in its bag of tricks. As a reminder it is a transformable model so it is one flexible beauty.
Final Thoughts
Hopefully I will have more experience with Real Grades in the future. As for the experience I have gained from my first I must say I am left with a craving for more. The Real Grades offer something unique in models. I never really expected a 1/144 scale inner frame to be quite successful. Of course with size comes the caution of being fragile but it is as good as it gets. I doubt there could be any better attempt at such a quality and detail. If I really had to nitpick the RG Zeta to satisfy those of you who want to know everything wrong with it I admit the transformation gimmick is slightly a downfall. Note this is the first RG to offer such a feature so it isn't going to be perfect. It doesn't feel solid enough. The chest has a habit of getting loose and open up as if its beginning to transform (if you touch and play with it too much like me). This is entirely opinionated of course many actually successfully transform their RG Zeta's without any issues.
The bottom line of it all is get a RG based on what you like. I wanted more of a challenge and something that I could be proud of as is. (I am not going to paint any Real Grades I get) There are 13 in total to choose from as of now including the two latest ones which are the GP01's. The best one out of them all are the RG MK II Gundams. (I admit I probably would have loved those more than I did this one)
Recommended for Intermediate Levels.
While you're at it check out my video review for more!
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