**VF-1**
The development of this aircraft heavily utilized alien technology recovered from Macross, such as its transformation system and new material technologies. It was also the Earth Unified Forces' first variable fighter to employ a thermonuclear jet engine. Unlike previous turbine engines that relied on fossil fuels, the thermonuclear engine directly heats and expels intake air in its combustion chamber. Consequently, within the atmosphere, it does not require the fuel traditionally carried by aircraft, and its range has been significantly extended. All VF series fighter shells utilize "SWAG Energy Conversion Armor," which reinforces the airframe using energy generated by the thermonuclear jet engine. This grants the originally thin airframe armor as robust as that of a heavy tank, greatly enhancing the Valkyrie's defensive capabilities and enabling it to withstand stress during high-speed atmospheric transformation without disintegrating.
In addition to its fighter configuration, this unit also possesses two other forms:
Battroid Mode: This form was developed for ground combat and close-quarters engagements with giant soldiers. Within the atmosphere, this mode is the slowest and least maneuverable. However, in space, its limbs provide considerable agility.
Gerwalk Mode: This was an unexpected discovery resulting from a test flight accident involving an incomplete transformation. During this incident, the pilot brought the partially transformed aircraft back in this state, inadvertently revealing its utility. Subsequent experiments confirmed the effectiveness of this mode. In this configuration, it not only provides stability at low speeds but can also be used for short/vertical take-offs and landings (in the Macross movie, the drowning heroine Minmay was rescued by a VF-1 in this mode). This form was later officially named the High-Wing Ground Effect Walker. However, it is commonly referred to as the "Walking Chicken." In this mode, the VF-1's maximum speed is limited to 500 km/h, and its bipedal walking speed is 100 km/h.
Furthermore, the VF-1's design incorporated a Hands-On Throttle And Stick (HOTAS) system, allowing pilots to select weapons without removing their hands from the stick and throttle. The transformation between its three modes is selected via a control panel integrated into the stick (in later improved models, it is directly controlled by the stick). Simultaneously, it extensively utilized large color multi-function displays to replace traditional analog gauges. By today's standards, such a design is standard equipment for new-generation fighters, and its single large multi-function display configuration is not as convenient as modern aircraft. However, at the time, this "glass cockpit" concept was a remarkably avant-garde design, both in the real world and in science fiction.
In Battroid Mode, the model stands approximately 21 cm tall. Its accessories primarily include interchangeable hands, a gun, "cover-up" armor, and a display stand. Achieving near-perfect transformation, the main body features the traditional yellow and white color scheme. The panel lines, markings, and craftsmanship are exceptionally detailed, with the landing gear and cockpit interior faithfully reproduced. Furthermore, its compatibility with UV light for a glow-in-the-dark effect adds significant playability!
The Battroid Mode's appearance and articulation are arguably the best ever; I almost thought Masami Ohbari himself had supervised it... As a fan, this release is simply irresistible! The knee joint design is ingenious, and the central metal frame and hip joints utilize metal supports, ensuring sufficient stability during transformation. Additionally, the VF-1S includes the gun strap seen in the anime. Transformation between Fighter, Gerwalk, and Battroid Modes is smooth, contributing to high playability. Even with transformation, the Battroid's articulation surpasses that of other manufacturers. In Gerwalk Mode, the arms and thighs are not hindered by the wing placement. Some joints are quite tight, so users should be careful not to accidentally break them during handling. Previous issues, such as loose wrist ball joints, easily detached gun straps, and missiles falling off, have all been completely resolved! One wonders if the official team has been observing fan feedback...
At its regular price, the value for money is excellent. If you, like me, have a strong preference for Battroid Mode, this is a must-buy! And then there's the upcoming Armored Parts set...
**D.M.S. Play Scoring Index**
Appearance (40) 34
Articulation and Poseability (20) 15
Accessories and Playability (20) 16
Quality Control (10) 7
Price (10) 6
**Total Score: 78 Points**