HG 1/144 Oowashi Akatsuki [REISSUE] - Release Info

HG 1/144 Oowashi Akatsuki [REISSUE]

Release Date: January 2024 (availability depends on region)

Price: 2,640 Yen

INITIAL RELEASE April 2006

Please check with your local retailers for stock.

This reissue now feature the Bandai Namco logo.

[GOLD PLATING]

Bandai Spirits has reintroduced the HG 1/144 Oowashi Akatsuki Gundam model kit to commemorate the 20th anniversary of "Gundam SEED Destiny," bringing joy to fans worldwide. This re-release coincides with the successful screening of the "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom" film in Japan on January 26, 2024, which marks an important milestone in the Gundam series. This kit reintroduces a classic model to both new and long-time enthusiasts, with a stunning gold-plated finish that enhances its presence and attractiveness.

Given its age, the model's range of motion is impressive. The head is fastened on a single ball joint, allowing for precise positioning. Similarly, the ball-jointed construction of the shoulders allows them to tilt and raise horizontally, albeit to a limited extent. Swivel and ball-and-socket joints in the arms and upper thighs, respectively, offer a range of motion that most collectors and enthusiasts will find adequate. However, take in mind that the elbow and knee joints can only be bent up to 90 degrees, and the skirt armor panels may limit your waist rotation.

The HG 1/144 Oowashi Akatsuki Gundam comes with a formidable arsenal of weapons and accessories, including dual Beam Sabers, Beam Saber hilts, a "Hyakuri" Beam Rifle, and a Shield. In addition, the "Oowashi" Sky Pack and a display stand are included, allowing for dynamic aerial poses and a great show presence.

The ORB-01 Akatsuki Gundam, popularly known as the Akatsuki, is a popular mobile suit in the "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny" anime. Initially piloted by Cagalli Yula Athha with the "Oowashi" Sky Pack, it eventually comes under the command of Mu La Flaga, who chooses the "Shiranui" Space Pack.

This mobile suit was created by merging Orb's superior prototype technology with insights gained from researching the GAT-X105 Strike Gundam and its Striker Pack system. The Akatsuki is armed with a number of conventional weaponry, including a dual beam saber, a CIWS mounted on the head, a beam rifle, and an arm-mounted shield. Its most distinguishing feature is its gold-colored Yata-no-Kagami armor, which is exclusive to Orb's nobility. This special mirror surface armor can intercept and reflect beam strikes using the Akatsuki's sensors, making it practically resistant to beam weaponry. However, it is just as vulnerable to physical and melee attacks as any other mobile suit, needing the deployment of a shield.

For enhanced versatility in combat, the Akatsuki is designed to accommodate two different backpacks, akin to the Striker Packs used by the Strike Gundam. The "Oowashi" Sky Pack equips it for atmospheric flight, featuring two beam cannons and the ability to transform into a support aircraft, similar to the transformation capabilities of the ZGMF-X09A Justice Gundam's Fatum-00. This configuration is known as the Oowashi Akatsuki Gundam. For space missions, the "Shiranui" Space Pack offers increased mobility and is outfitted with seven remotely operated beam turret units, providing both offense and defense. In this mode, the mobile suit is referred to as the Shiranui Akatsuki Gundam.