[Definitive Review] METAL BUILD Freedom Gundam CONCEPT 2: Its Appeal and Gimmicks

• "Released in 2020, the METAL BUILD Freedom Gundam CONCEPT 2 is a figure that generates buzz every time it's re-released. Despite its standard size of approximately 180mm, its weighty feel thanks to the metal frame and its large, unfolding wings give it an overwhelming presence that surpasses other Gundam figures."

Basic specifications and pricing information

• Product overview

  • Product Name: METAL BUILD Freedom Gundam CONCEPT 2

  • Work: Mobile Suit Gundam SEED

  • Overall height: Approximately 180mm, Material: ABS, PVC, die-cast.

  • Manufacturer's suggested retail price: ¥26,400 (including tax) (as of 2020 release).

Design and Form Features

• Concept arrangement and proportions

  • Rather than simply recreating the character from the film, "CONCEPT 2" reconstructs the silhouette itself, achieving a stylish standing pose through sharper head sculpts and adjusted volume around the waist.

  • The brand's distinctive feature is its design arrangement that utilizes the metal frame while minimizing the exposure of alloy on the surface, achieving a balance between a realistic robotic texture and weight.

• Wings and back silhouette

  • The wings on the back have multiple movable axes in the front-to-back direction, and are designed to create a "dynamic silhouette that is like wings."

  • While it's quite bulky when unfolded, the design also ensures that the lines on the back are neat and tidy when folded, making it easy to display.

The appeal of articulation, gimmicks, and weaponry

• Movable mechanism

  • The neck, shoulders, waist, and hip joints, among other major joints, feature a metal frame that ensures a wide range of motion, making it ideal for action poses.

  • The binders and verniers can be adjusted in conjunction with the movement of the wings, allowing for a wide range of posing options, such as "descending wings" and flight scenes.

• Weapons and effect parts

  • Accessories include a beam rifle, beam saber (two hilts + connecting hilt), shield, and beam saber effect parts.

  • Thanks to the new weapon deployment mechanism, the deployment of the Balaena plasma beam cannon and railgun on the back can be reproduced in a way that closely resembles the impression from the anime.

• Signature pose: "High-MAT Full Burst"

  • The combination of wings and weapon deployment gimmicks allows you to recreate scenes close to the "High-MAT Full Burst" special move from the show, which is a major selling point.

  • A dedicated display stand is included, allowing for aerial poses and dynamic displays.

Review perspective

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  • The use of die-cast metal gives it a substantial weight and stability, and the imposing presence when the wings are deployed is exceptional, making it considered one of the most satisfying items in the Gundam SEED series.

  • The redesigned, larger shield and the sharp wing design are key features that differentiate this model from existing Freedom Gundam models.