Remember the sheer excitement when the Freedom Gundam first blasted onto the screen in Gundam SEED? That iconic design still sparks joy for countless fans. But translating that screen-perfect vision into a physical model kit can sometimes feel overwhelming, especially when you land on the Master Grade (MG) line for the Strike Gundam.
Choosing the right MG Strike can be tricky. Do you go for the older version, or the newer Freedom-adjacent kits? Builders often worry about fiddly inner frames, sticker placement, or whether the final product will truly capture that sleek, powerful look from the anime. You want a build that is rewarding, not frustrating.
This deep dive cuts through the confusion. We will break down exactly what makes the MG Strike Gundam line tick, comparing the essential versions so you can pick the perfect kit for your shelf. Get ready to build a masterpiece that truly honors the legendary Earth Alliance machine.
Top Mg Gundam Seed Strike Recommendations
- Colored plastic, minimal to zero paint required
- Easy to assemble articulated model kit requiring no glue
- The product box will have a Bandai Namco warning label, which is proof that you are purchasing an officially licensed product
- The highest "metal expression" in the history of Gunpla -EXTREME METALLIC COMBINAITON-
- A kit with the most number of linked frame articulation gimmicks in MG History that enables the poses you imagine
- The true value of the Golden Frame is unleashed through gimmicks
- A variety of armaments with numerous gimmicks are included. Paper-crafted runner stand inlcuded to assist in assembly
- No glue required for assembly, a hobby nipper is required to remove parts from runners
- Colored plastic, little to no paint required to replicate appearance
- The product box will have a Bandai Namco warning label, which is proof that you are purchasing an officially licensed product
- Colored plastic, minimal to zero paint required
- Easy to assemble articulated model kit requiring no glue
- "Strike Noir Gundam", the main character of "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED CE73 -STARGAZER-", has been added to the MG series
- With the return joint of the wrist, it is possible to decide a sharper pose than ever with the return of the wrist Various weapons (beam rifle × 2, beam rifle shorty × 2, large beam) equipped in the play・ Sword x 2) and various wrist parts to equip it are included.
- 1/100 Scale Model Building Kit
- Strike Rouge becomes Ver.RM and becomes MG.
- Reproduce the proportions and range of motion unique to Ver.RM.
- The striker pack is equipped with a newly set "Otori" by Mr. Kunio Okawara. Equipped with various gimmicks as an integrated weapon striker.
- The wing of "Otori" is developed in an X shape. The tail can be folded as an MG original gimmick.
- An updated version of the Freedom gundam from Mobile Suit Gundam Seed features stylized detail and proportion influenced from the MG RM Aile Strike Gundam
- All weapons have been carefully recreated including the beam rifle, beam sabers that can combine, rail cannons, and plasma cannons with added gimmicks
- Sliding armor panels in thighs and forearms and flip open hatches in wings allow new possible dynamic display options
- Display stand included, Runner x16, dry transfer sheet, sticker sheet, and instruction manual
- Easy to snap together, no glue required.
- Molded in separate colors, no paint required.
- High level of detail.
- Advanced MS Joint System replicates the mechanical skeleton
Your Essential Guide to Buying the MG Gundam Seed Strike
The Master Grade (MG) line from Bandai offers fantastic model kits. The MG Gundam Seed Strike is a fan favorite. This guide helps you pick the best one for your collection. We look at what makes this kit great and what you need to know before you buy.
Key Features to Look For
When you buy the MG Strike Gundam, check for these important details. These features define the quality of the model.
Articulation and Posing
- Excellent Joints: Good MG kits have strong, flexible joints. You should move the arms, legs, and waist easily. This lets you create dynamic action poses from the anime.
- Inner Frame Detail: The MG line includes a detailed inner skeleton. Make sure the inner frame parts look sharp. This adds realism when you pose the model without armor.
Weapons and Accessories
- Striker Packs: The Strike Gundam often comes with or is compatible with its different Striker Packs (like the Aile, Sword, or Launcher). Check if the specific version you buy includes the pack you want. The Aile Striker is the most common.
- Beam Rifle and Shield: Confirm the kit includes the standard equipment. These pieces should fit snugly in the hands.
Aesthetics and Decals
- Panel Lining Ready: High-quality molds show clear lines on the armor pieces. These lines look great after you apply panel liner—a simple painting step.
- Decal Options: Good kits provide both water-slide and dry-transfer decals. Water-slide decals offer the most professional, painted-on look.
Important Materials Used
The MG Gundam Seed Strike uses specific plastics. Understanding these helps you judge durability.
Plastic Types
- Polystyrene (PS): This hard plastic forms the main armor and inner frame parts. PS holds sharp detail well.
- Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS): ABS plastic is used for high-stress areas, like joints and ratchets. ABS resists breaking better than PS under constant movement.
Color Separation
Look for kits with good color separation. This means different colors (like red vents or yellow sensors) are molded in separate plastic pieces, not just painted on. Better separation means less painting for a great out-of-box look.
Factors That Improve or Reduce Quality
Some kits offer a better building experience than others. Pay attention to these quality indicators.
What Improves Quality
- Snap-Fit Engineering: The parts should fit together without glue. Excellent kits require very little sanding or trimming.
- Clear Parts: If the kit includes clear plastic for cockpit canopies or beam sabers, these parts must be bubble-free and highly transparent.
What Reduces Quality
- “Molded-in Color” Compromises: If the yellow V-fin (the piece on the head) is molded in soft, slightly dull plastic, it might look cheap. Soft plastic often doesn’t hold detail as well.
- Loose Joints (Older Molds): Older versions of the MG Strike might use less advanced joint technology. These joints can become loose quickly with repeated posing.
User Experience and Use Cases
How you plan to use your finished model affects which version you should buy.
For the Beginner Builder
If this is your first Master Grade, choose a newer release of the Strike. Newer kits have simpler instructions and fewer small, fiddly parts. You can build it straight from the box and it will look fantastic.
For the Advanced Customizer
If you love painting and weathering, any MG Strike kit works. However, look for the version that lacks heavy top coating or thick panel lines already applied. This gives you a clean canvas for your custom work.
Display Scenarios
The MG Strike excels in display. Its size (around 1/100 scale) makes it impressive on a shelf. You can display it in a neutral standing pose or use its excellent articulation for dramatic flight poses with a separate action base.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the MG Gundam Seed Strike
Q: Do I need glue to build the MG Gundam Seed Strike?
A: No, Master Grade kits are designed to snap together. Glue is not required, but some builders use cement for extra permanent strength on inner frame parts.
Q: Is the MG Strike difficult for a beginner?
A: MG kits are intermediate, but the Strike is manageable. Expect 5–10 hours of build time. It is a great step up from High Grade (HG) kits.
Q: What is the main difference between the MG Strike and the RG (Real Grade) Strike?
A: The MG is 1/100 scale and focuses on detailed inner frames and larger, easier-to-handle parts. The RG is smaller (1/144 scale) and packs incredible detail into tiny, complex parts.
Q: Can I easily swap between the Aile, Sword, and Launcher Striker Packs?
A: Yes, the MG version usually has a very solid connection system. You can usually swap packs easily without breaking anything, provided you follow the instructions.
Q: Does the cockpit open on this model?
A: Most MG kits feature an opening cockpit hatch. You can usually place a tiny Kira Yamato pilot figure (often included) inside.
Q: Where can I find the best price for the MG Strike?
A: Prices vary widely. Check official hobby stores or large online retailers. Be wary of extremely cheap prices, as they might be third-party copies.
Q: Will this model look good without any extra painting?
A: Yes. Bandai molds the plastic in the correct colors. With just a little panel lining and the included stickers/decals, the MG Strike looks fantastic right out of the box.
Q: What is the best action base to use with the MG Strike?
A: The Bandai Action Base 1 or Action Base 2 works perfectly. They connect securely to the model’s waist peg, allowing for stable flight poses.
Q: Are the beam saber blades included?
A: Yes, the kit includes clear pink or light-blue plastic blades to represent the energy swords.
Q: How tall is the completed MG Strike Gundam?
A: Since it is 1/100 scale, the completed model stands approximately 18–20 centimeters tall (about 7 to 8 inches).
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