[Kit Insight] SPL 1/100 Mobius Zero (Straight Build)

As far as third party model kits go, the SPL brand is not as prolific as say MC Model, Dragon Momoko or even Daban. In fact, apart from this 1/100 Mobius Zero, it doesn't seem like the Chinese has been producing many kits or will produce them in the near future. This is a shame, as the Mobius Zero kit holds much promise, although marred by engineering issues that could be rectified given time and/or funding.

[Kit Insight] Bandai HGBF 1/144 MSZ-008X2 ZZII (Straight Build)

With the release of the Gundam Build Fighters Try Island Wars OVA, we finally see the previously-teased Gunpla in action: the Gyancelot, the Force Impulses fitted with the Northern Pod, the Shia Qan[T], the terrifying Scramble Gundam and my personal favourite - Minato Sakai's ZZII. 

[ANIME] Gundam Build Fighters Try Island Wars OVA

After much hype and anticipation, the latest installment of the GBF series is released! Boy, does it deliver on the feels!

We want more!

[Kit Insight] Bandai HGIBO 1/144 Gundam Barbatos Clear Color Ver. (Gunpla Expo Exclusive) (Customised Build)

It's a Barbatos with clear armor parts (except the Frame runner) that also comes with the 180mm smoothbore cannon as well as a cute little CGS Mobile Worker in clear black molding.

I also added springs to the torso pistons to give it a little more mechanical depth and also to beef it up a little. The Frame was also painted Metallic Black.

[Kit Insight] Bandai LBX Ikaros Force (Limited Gold Ver.) & LBX Custom Effect DX2 (Straight Builds)

I haven't built any LBX model kits before, since I am loathe to channel capital to yet another model kit line. Even so, I recognise the merits of the LBX line, and some of the mecha designs look great. 

I picked this limited edition gold-plated Ikaros Force from a toy sale held by Takashimaya in August. It was too good a deal to pass up as the set contains the Ikaros Force kit, the LBX Custom Effect DX2 add-ons, two LBX Weapon add-ons as well as a LBX Sticker Set for the grand total of S$15. Talk about a good deal!

LBX kits are fun to build and don't take a long time, with a decent range of articulation. I like how the parts are labelled according to the section of the kit it corresponds to, makes finding of parts that bit easier. The DX2 effect parts are just sweet, but that are a tad heavy due to their massive size.

I have one more LBX kit in my backlog, let's see if I can find the time to do a Painted Build of that one!

[Kit Insight] Bandai Yokai Watch Robonyan Eco Ver. (Painted Build)

Bandai is releasing a new line of model kits (again) based on the popular children's series Yokai Watch. Full of cute spirits cats and other assorted demons, Yokai Watch was touted to be a Pokemon-killer, although it quickly became evident that Pokemon was not going to vacate its spot as the League Champion anytime soon. Nevertheless, the franchise has amassed a pretty sizable following, and merchandise - particularly the titular Yokai Watch - have seen admirable sales.

[GUNPLA] Premium Bandai MG 1/100 Weapon & Armor Hanger for Full Armor Gundam Ver. Ka [Thunderbolt Ver.]

A gorgeous add-on for a gorgeous mobile suit! The redesigns of the classic Gundam weaponry give this Expansion Set even more bang for your buck!

Release date: Preorder begins August 2016

Pricing: 2808 yen

[GUNPLA] Premium Bandai MG 1/100 Gundam Heavy Arms Custom EW

Rejoice, Heavy Arms fans! This mobile suit is the definition of GUNS GUNS GUNS.

Release date: October 2016
Pricing: 5184 yen