MGEX 1/100 Strike Freedom Gundam [Midnight Coating Ver.] - Release Info

MGEX 1/100 Strike Freedom Gundam [Midnight Coating Ver.]

Release Date: May 2024

Price: 4,200 Yuan ($575 USD)

Bandai China has officially revealed a new addition to the MGEX lineup, the MGEX 1/100 Strike Freedom Gundam [Midnight Coating], created exclusively for the Chinese market. This stunning edition will be available only through Bandai’s official flagship stores on Tmall and JD.com, with pre-orders starting October 31, 2023.

The “Midnight Coating” version gives the Strike Freedom Gundam a completely new appearance with a deep black finish and metallic silver highlights. This refined color scheme adds a sense of luxury and visual depth, setting it apart from previous releases. While some fans thought it might represent a deactivated mode, its striking presentation stands as a statement of elegance on its own.

The inner frame also features a sleek black tone that enhances the unity of the entire design. From the frame to the wings, every detail feels cohesive and purposeful.

Instead of a standard sales process, Bandai China will release the “Midnight Coating” version through a lottery-based system. Winners will be personally contacted by the participating flagship stores with details on how to purchase this limited edition kit, adding an extra sense of rarity to the release.

MASTER GRADE EXTREME

Bandai Spirits has once again lifted the standard for Gundam model kits with its Master Grade Extreme (MGEX) series. The MGEX line is the pinnacle of model kit design, capturing the "EXTREME EXPRESSION" of Mobile Suits (MS) through unique themes. This series represents the culmination of Bandai's superior technology and an amalgamation of various materials, setting a new benchmark in the field of Gunpla.

"Metal Expression" in Gunpla

EXTREME METALLIC COMBINATION

The MGEX series pushes the limits of metallic expression with its "EXTREME METALLIC COMBINATION," which employs six separate processes to generate unmatched metallic finishes in the internal frame. This includes:

Three Types of Special Plating: The kits include parts in three different plating colors, which improves their visual attractiveness.

Two Metallic Part hues: In addition to plating, many sections are painted in two different metallic hues, which add depth and contrast to the model.

Etching Stickers: These stickers provide realistic metallic effects to the sculpture.

A Simulated MS Experience

Building an MGEX kit is similar to constructing a genuine Mobile Suit. After building the gold inner frame, builders join outer armor elements in a technique similar to MS manufacture.

The MGEX range uses transparent parts and designs that leave greater gaps between armor sections. This design decision emphasizes the internal frame and the complicated multi-layered structure that becomes visible when the pieces move.

Advanced Articulation and Style

The MGEX kits have the greatest number of interconnecting moving pieces in MG history. These kits combine advanced movement and style, blending armor pieces with the gold internal frame to create a dynamic, organic look.

Articulation Gimmicks and Features:

Head Movement: Three movable axes in the head, plus a joint at the neck's base, allow for a wide range of motion.

Arm and Torso/Waist Articulation: Implemented with roll axes and enhanced flexibility for natural poses and reduced unnatural gaps.

Toe and Leg Articulation: Four movable joints in the toes and sliding armor parts in the legs for smooth movement.

Interlocking Mechanisms: Unique gimmicks in the armor and verniers that move in conjunction with each other.

Ankle and Wing Gimmicks: Ankle covers that move with the foot, and wings with multi-axial movements for various poses.

Weapons and Accessories

MGEX kits come with an array of armaments, each featuring numerous gimmicks:

Long Range Beam Rifle: Transformable to recreate different modes.

Xiphias 3 Rail Cannon: With unfolding gimmicks and adaptable waist sections.

Beam Shield and Super Lacerta Beam Sabers: Offering multiple configurations, including a combined weapon.

The MGEX series, with its original design and superb craftsmanship, offers fans to witness the "EXTREME EXPRESSION" of Gundam model kits. This line not only represents the pinnacle of Gunpla technology, but it also provides a unique, immersive building experience that goes beyond the limitations of standard model kit creation.