Review: HG 1/144 Arios Gundam

Model Number: GN-007
Pilot: Allelujah Haptism
Operator: Celestial Being
Manufacturer: Celestial Being 
Appearance: Gundam 00 (2nd season)
Armaments: GN Beam Saber x 2 (stored in front skirts)

                   GN Beam Shield x 2

                   GN Submachine Gun x 2 (mounted on wrists, MS only)

                   GN Twin Beam Rifle

                   GN Vulcan Gun x 2 (mounted on nose, MA only)

Plane Mode:

Review

I was excited when I start building this kit.  I was curious how it'll transform into a plane.  I did a lot of panel lining as it was too plain orange and white.  The first thing I did after finishing the unit is to change its form and that's when I noticed the flaws in this gundam.  Even if you followed the instructions, it somehow didn't looked like as it was in the picture.   Next while on its gundam form, changing its position was really annoying.  There are parts that easily break off.  It's difficult to position both arms since it couldn't handle the weight in the shoulders.  You should handle this gundam with care because a slight movement of it will lead to parts falling off.  I guess I was expecting too much for a transforming gundam that it turned out to be a disappointment.  

But then, I still like it when it transformed into a plane especially if the head part turns into a pincer.  It could've been better if there isn't much weight bearing part in the shoulders and even in the legs.  The plane doesn't looked balance sometimes.  

I'm not sure if its just the unit that I bought that has a polycap problem.  Overall, without too much handling, the gundam can stand itself uniquely especially if having it on display while on plane mode.  Don't expect much poses and weapons as it only has 2 beam sabers & twin beam rifle.  If you're the type of gunpla builder whose after a gundam that is multi-functional, then this is not for you.  But if you can appreciate simplicity in a gundam (without being bothered by parts falling off), then go for it.

Rating: 3 out of 5