Towards the end of March, the image used to promote upcoming pre-orders for this kit leaked online. Initially, I thought it to be an April Fool’s joke since it was around March 30 when it appeared. Didn’t realize that it will take three weeks before pre-orders finally opened. I’m talking about the HGAC Gundam Burnlapius from the manga New Mobile Report Gundam Wing Dual Story: G-UNIT and is the next kit in the “G-UNIT Re:OPERATION” campaign over at Premium Bandai.
I am less familiar with Gundam Burnlapius over here compared to the other G-UNIT mobile suits, but this was apparently built by OZ Prize from ground up based on Gundam Aesculapius, with the latter being a heavily modified Gundam Geminass 02. As such, it shares most of its design elements, including the Duel Mode transformation.
Just like the previous G-UNIT Re:OPERATION kits, there are changes between the design of this kit to the original Gundam Burnlapius, but the overall look is very much the same as you can see the original above.
Articulation should be around what’s expected for a modern High Grade kit, though the massive design would likely cause some parts to hit another when getting the kit into poses. LIkewise, be reminded that like other G-UNIT Re:OPERATION kits, this will likely utilize c-clips in some of the joints. I am aware of the discourse online when it comes to these c-clips so take note.
With designs based on the Aesculapius, the Burnlapius can also transform into its Duel Mode, which is the equivalent of the Close Combat mode for the former. Also like the Aesculapius whose transformation is based on the Z’Gok from the Universal Century, the Burnlapius is based on the Hygogg.
I’m inclined to think the Burnlapius’ transformation is relatively better than Aesculapius, especially at the arms. But that’s just conjecture until we see reviews of the actual kit.
The Burnlapius also apprears to have better articulation when transformed than Aesculapius, especially at the arms. Aesculapius utilizes segmented joints using wires to provide structure and articulation. However, it also limits the movement of the arms, not to mention how the rigidity of the wire can cause the forearm parts to get dislodged. Burnlapius appears to just have the larger arms fold out in Duel Mode, which is simpler and allows for poses like the one above.
Speaking of poses, the kit includes additional arm segments for extended claw action, as well as the other accessories seen here.
HGAC 1/144 Gundam Burnlapius
July 2024 / ¥3,800
Premium Bandai Exclusive
I’m still waiting for the Gundam Griepe to get the modern treatment though I appreciate the other mobile suits finally getting kits. And with the manga continuation New Mobile Report Gundam Wing G-UNIT; Operations Galiarest still ongoing, we can expect more kits outside of the original ones.
