SF3D/Ma.K.
"Maschinen Krieger ZbV3000," widely known as Ma.K., is the seminal work of artist Kow Yokoyama, originating in the 1980s. Initially titled "SF3D," the series was serialized monthly in Hobby Japan magazine. Drawing inspiration from World War I and II, Yokoyama crafted a fictional future war setting, designing a vast array of original armored suits, aircraft, tanks, and spaceships. These models boast a rich sci-fi background, featuring iconic elements like wearable power armor combat suits, bipedal walking tanks, anti-gravity ships, and autonomous robots. Distinct from the mainstream "giant robot" genres prevalent in Japan at the time (such as Gundam), Yokoyama's mechanical models were small yet exquisitely detailed. SF3D quickly garnered a massive following of model kit enthusiasts eager to own the designs featured in the magazine. Recognizing this market, the model company NITTO collaborated with Kow Yokoyama and Hobby Japan to release the first batch of kits in the series. Even after NITTO's eventual closure, fan passion for SF3D remained undiminished. Today, companies like WAVE, Hasegawa, Kaiyodo, Sentinel, and Nu:Ke continue to release various Ma.K. products.
SAFS Mk.III A8/R8
The S.A.F.S. had lost its combat advantage against the Strahl military's armored suits, necessitating increased power and heavier armor to adapt to the evolving battlefield. Consequently, after being equipped with a new internal combustion engine and armored front and rear engine parts, the S.A.F.S. Mk.III A8/R8 finally joined the Mercenary Army's ranks.
Compared to the NITTO SF3D models from 40 years ago, assembly is significantly more user-friendly! If you're accustomed to building Bandai kits, you'll find WAVE's assembly relatively straightforward, though the joint tightness can be a bit inconsistent.
Ma.K. models consistently offer immense creative freedom, and for this build, I opted for metallic colors as the primary scheme! Honestly, for those used to building domestic Chinese kits, Bandai and WAVE kits are quite simple. However, the real highlight I want to introduce is the custom 3D-printed head sculpt! Ever since elementary school, I've loved Kow Yokoyama's creations and always dreamed of becoming one of his pilots. With advancements in technology, I commissioned 隨影3D to create a 1/20 scale pilot head sculpt for me. Now, one of my childhood aspirations has finally been realized! The sketching, printing, and manual modifications cost around HKD 500, allowing you to transform into a pilot in Kow Yokoyama's world!
As a model kit novice, my next challenge is already set! Seeing those 33 runners, I'm hoping to complete it within two weeks... Good thing the spray cans I ordered arrived yesterday!
