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The 0083 series is essentially a must-buy whenever a new release comes out. However, this second release of Cima's Custom Gelgoog Marine primarily features a color change, added markings, and an additional launch pad accessory. For those who don't own Cima's Custom Gelgoog Marine, this is an excellent opportunity to acquire it. But for collectors like me, it's a bit tricky. Nevertheless, I still dutifully paid for it. Unlike previous re-releases, older versions often had 'advantages' that the new versions couldn't replace. For instance, there were always some elements unique to the old version that the new one lacked, such as certain effect parts that didn't affect playability. This ensured that while the new items were good, the old ones still held their value. However, once a new version fully incorporates the content of the old one, the old version suddenly seems to lose its raison d'être. This situation certainly warrants further consideration.
Returning to the review of the toy itself. This time, Cima's Custom Gelgoog Marine is, of course, more visually appealing. Since I bought the old version of Cima's Custom Gelgoog Marine but never reviewed it, I'll treat this as a brand-new play review report!
The paintwork is outstanding, giving it a remarkably elegant feel.
Compared to the old version, the new version's paintwork is naturally more striking, and the body features numerous markings, making it look even better than typical ROBOT Damashii figures. The color scheme this time is excellent; even though it's clearly an 'injection-molded body,' it lacks that 'plastic feel,' which is quite important.
The weapons are great, especially the long rifle.
My favorite is the mobile suit's long rifle; it's truly beautiful.
As for the beam saber effect parts, they are quite large compared to those of other mobile suits. The slashing effect is even more imposing.
As for the arm-mounted machine cannons, effect parts can be added separately.
Playability and feel are excellent.
The hands holding the rifle and saber are very secure, and swapping them is quite convenient; they don't easily fall off, which is excellent! The mobile suit body has many thruster ports, allowing players to add effect parts for very convenient play, though I didn't spend too much time testing the thruster ports. Additionally, Cima's Custom Gelgoog Marine comes with some unique thruster effect parts and long rifle effect parts. Although the connection points can still accommodate other effect parts, I opted to only use the Cima's Custom Gelgoog Marine's dedicated effect parts for play.
However, if you're taking photos, you need to carefully manage the positioning of the fuel tanks. Because they move very easily, almost every photo requires checking if the fuel tanks are properly positioned.
Overall, I am satisfied with the product. Although I'm unsure of the purpose of the old version of Cima's Custom Gelgoog Marine now, this toy is still excellent.
Launch Pad Play Review — Good
Another highlight of this Cima's Gelgoog Marine set is undoubtedly the Zeon battleship's launch pad (which I believe can also be used for landing). This pad feels reasonably sturdy when held. The paintwork is acceptable, and both the handgrip and footrest positions are articulated, giving it a stable feel. The mobile suit can be posed in a launch stance, with one hand gripping the handle and one foot on the footplate, or perhaps returning to the ship? Both areas are movable, which deeply captivates players, encouraging continuous engagement. Other mobile suits can also use this launch pad, which is great!
The rear of the pad has a Tamashii STAGE connection port, meaning players can connect it to a Tamashii STAGE stand, allowing for combined play with the toy and enhancing the overall feel. I primarily use this method to display it when depicting the mobile suit returning to the ship or launching for flight!
Of course, the only minor drawback is that the launch pad could be larger; if it were truly bigger, it would allow more mobile suits to be displayed together, which would likely be even more fun!
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