ROBOT SPIRITS Aegis Gundam ver. A.N.I.M.E. Review | The latest figure with amazing transformation gimmick and accuracy to the anime.

The GAT-X303 Aegis Gundam, Aslan's mobile suit from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED, has finally been brought to life as a 3D figure in the ROBOT Spirits <SIDE MS> ver. ANIME series. Featuring the series' first full-fledged transformation gimmick, this completed figure captures scenes from the anime, including MS form, MA form, and Scylla firing form, making it a must-have for SEED fans. In this article, we will provide a detailed review from a collector's perspective, covering its sculpting, articulation, transformation, accessories, and points to consider before purchasing.

ROBOT SPIRITS Aegis Gundam ver. ANIME Basic Information

• Product Name: ROBOT SPIRITS <SIDE MS> GAT-X303 Aegis Gundam ver. ANIME

• Title: Mobile Suit Gundam SEED

• Overall height: Approximately 135mm (top of head height)

• Material: ABS/PVC, pre-painted, fully articulated action figure

• Price range: The manufacturer's suggested retail price is around 10,000 yen (including tax), but it may be slightly discounted at general retailers during sales.

Features of the shape and proportions

A major appeal of this model is how the sharp silhouette, based on the distinctive red color of the Aegis Gundam, has been recreated in a way that is closer to the on-screen appearance, typical of the ver. ANIME series. The large thruster units positioned on both sides of the waist and on the back increase the amount of detail when viewed from behind, creating a commander-type presence and high mobility.

The molded color is a slightly deep red, and some reviews mention that it has a calm color that is close to the impression of the anime. Key areas such as the sensors and camera parts are painted, and it has a "ready to display right out of the box" finish that is typical of a finished product.

Range of motion and posing

In MS (Mobile Suit) form, the basic joints such as the shoulders, elbows, and knees have a wide range of motion, allowing for natural posing, including beam rifle stances and dynamic poses. The neck also has a large range of motion, making it easy to create expressive looks through eye movements. However, some reviews mention that the waist twist is limited, so it's good to understand its strengths and weaknesses in posing.

By using interchangeable parts to recreate the beam saber deployment state on the limbs, you can dynamically recreate close-quarters combat scenes using the entire body. Combining it with vernier effect parts enhances the ability to recreate flight and high-mobility scenes, and using it with an action base expands the possibilities for play unique to a three-dimensional model.

The series' first transformation gimmick (MA form/Scylla).

The biggest selling point of this item is its full-fledged transformation gimmick, a first for the ROBOT SPIRITS SEED ver. ANIME series. A key feature is that, while utilizing some parts swapping, it incorporates a complex transformation mechanism into MA (Mobile Armor) form within a body size of approximately 135mm.

In MA (Mobile Armor) mode, it can even recreate the firing configuration of the Aegis's signature 580mm double-row phase-energy cannon "Scylla," and the included effect parts can be used to emphasize the power of the beam firing scene. This is especially recommended for users who want to recreate the memorable fierce battle scene with the Strike Gundam from the anime, alongside the Strike Gundam from the same series.

Accessories and effect parts

The main accessories are as follows:

• 60mm High-Energy Beam Rifle

• Anti-beam shield

• Beam saber blades (2 for arms, 2 for legs)

• Scylla firing effect

• Vernier effect x 4

• Includes various interchangeable left and right wrists, a complete set of transformation support parts, etc.

The beam rifle and shield can be mounted on the thruster units on both hips, and their stored state when not in use can also be reproduced. By combining them with effect parts, the high play value is appealing, as it can cover different situations such as "flight scenes," "close combat," and "Scylla at maximum output" with just one figure.

Comparison with other SEED series ROBOT Spirits figures

When displayed alongside other SEED-series figures in the same ROBOT SPIRITS ver. ANIME line (such as Strike, Duel, and Buster), the Aegis's key differentiating features are its "transformation gimmick" and "beam sabers all over its body." Its commander-type design and the existence of its MA (Mobile Armor) form significantly alter its silhouette when displayed, making it a standout piece in any collection.

Strengths and weaknesses (from a user's perspective)

The positive aspects include the highly accurate proportions that recreate the character's appearance in the show, the transformation gimmick that allows it to take on MS, MA, and Scylla firing modes, and the high play value provided by the abundant effect parts. Furthermore, the coloring and size, which are unique to a finished product, have led to many praising it as a well-balanced figure that is "great for display and great for posing."

Who would I recommend this to?

• A fan of Gundam SEED, especially Aslan & Aegis.

• A collector who loves transforming mechs and wants to enjoy both MS (Mobile Suit) and MA (Mobile Armor) forms.

• Users who want to collect the ROBO Spirits SEED ver. ANIME series to recreate famous scenes