Product Line / Entry Grade
Scale & Class / 1/144 Scale Plastic Model Kit
Manufacturer / Bandai Spirits
Release Date / 2022
Appearances / Mobile Suit Gundam SEED
Bandai Spirits hit a goldmine when they decided to include Gunpla in the Entry Grade, as each has provided a great build experience right out of the box thanks to the engineering on each kit. They can even stand on par with High Grades just released several years prior. The same is true with the sophomore Gunpla in the Entry Grade line, the Strike Gundam from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED. Like with the RX-78-2 Gundam, multiple versions of this kit were released so we’ll look at the standard packaged version of the Entry Grade Strike Gundam.
Taking advantage of clever parts layering, the kit requires minimal painting to look great outside the box. This is especially true with the head unit with the exposed internals and vents already in gray. While surface details are on the lighter side, which are comparable with the HGCE version, panel lining them are still recommended. Articulation is also good with the use of ball joints and C-clips hinge joints like the 30 Minute Missions line. Unfortunately, there have been multiple reports of these hinge joints getting loose over time, which has also affected my kit, particularly in the elbows. Being the standard packaged version, the kit includes both the beam rifle and shield for accessories. You can also use the Striker Packs from any of the HGCE kits as they are compatible as well.
