Here’s a couple of recently released kits from Bandai Spirits that also had their packaging art revealed. Well, that and some more photos for one kit.
The second Macross HG 1/100 kit with the Shortcut Change feature to be released in retail is the HG 1/100 Durandal Valkyrie (Alto Saotome Use) from the film Macross Froniter: The Wings of Farewell. While I was able to watch Macross Frontier back in 2007 (WOW that’s a while back), I wasn’t able to watch any of the succeeding movies so I’m not sure when Alto switched from the Messiah Valkyrie to the Durandal Valkyrie as seen here. But it does appear to be the next generation of variable fighters to follow the Messiah, so it makes sense for him to get one as well.
I also can’t differentiate between the two variable fighters, which makes me think Bandai Spirits could easily do a Messiah Valkyrie kit in the same line. If you’re planning to complete the line, then the Maximillian Jenius version of this same kit is slated for release in October. Likewise, they also announced a Premium Bandai exclusive expansion set for this kit that appears to include the Fast Pack and other accessories.
HG 1/100 YF-29 Durandal Valkyrie (Alto Saotome Use)
August 26, 2023 / ¥4,000
Order via HobbyLink Japan
Bandai Spirits is also taking its time in releasing High Grade kits from Super Robot Wars OG, the newest of this would be HG Dygenguar. This samurai-inspired super robot is one of the more recognized ones in the franchise thanks to its over-the-top pilot, Sänger Sombold and its massive sword, the Sanshiki Zankantou. In fact, if you want to know more about this kit, you’re in luck as they just posted a new update over at the Bandai Spirits Hobby Division Development Blog.
I’ll mirror here some of the photos posted there.
For starters, they highlight that the gold and silver parts use the same “real metallic gloss injection” technique as with the MGSD Freedom Gundam. It does still like the swirly gold/silver plastic they often use but at least it does look better for those who only do straight builds.
Besides the injection molding, there’s also tons of sculpted detail with its samurai armor-inspired design. There are also a lot of pointy parts though I don’t think this kit will be drawing blood anytime soon.
They first emphasize the use of joints with multiple axes of movement to allow for a wide range of movement, which is key for a dynamic super robot like DyGenGuar. Shown above are the joint assemblies for the neck and shoulders.
The same goes for the hip joint which features a shifting mechanic to allow for extended range of leg movement. Several rear panels also feature articulated hinges to reveal thruster units.
And of course, we can’t forget the Sanshiki Zankantou, shown here as two separate swords for both its normal and deployed forms. DyGenGuar can wield either sword without issues or additional display stands.
What need additional display stands though, and they’re indeed included, are the Dynamic Knuckles. Because no super robot would be complete without a rocket punch of some sort.
HG DyGenGuar
August 26, 2023 / ¥5,200
Order via HobbyLink Japan
