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The Metal Build Kämpfer is breathtaking. In this figure, you can see Bandai's integrity—an unreserved passion and dedication to their craft.
This time, Bandai included not only a shipper box but also an extra plastic bag, reminiscent of Hot Toys' packaging. It's not entirely necessary, but it's a nice touch. Opening the box is a truly pleasant experience! Here are the key highlights:
Impeccable Paint and Detailing
Generally, toys always have a minor flaw or two. However, this release is virtually "flawless"—it's absolutely beautiful. The mobile suit's primary color is blue, but the use of various shades creates an immediate sense of depth that is incredibly pleasing. The paint application is top-notch, with no significant issues to be found.
Furthermore, one of the Kämpfer's defining features is the abundance of thruster verniers all over its body. Every single one of these is clearly painted, making them stand out brilliantly. The weapons are equally outstanding, with virtually no paint issues to speak of.
In terms of detail, the entire body is a treasure trove. The most prominent examples are the thrusters on the calves, thighs, and back, which even feature sculpted inner mechanics—the level of detail is meticulous. The only minor disappointment is the lack of thruster effect parts. If it had them, this figure would be truly incredible.
As for the long antenna, an alternate folded version is included, perfectly recreating its appearance from the startup sequence—a fantastic and rare inclusion.
Strong Mechanical Presence
Another interesting aspect of this mobile suit is its powerful mechanical feel—it has a very substantial, heavy presence. This feeling is evident in the joints and various parts of the body. It's a remarkable achievement. In many areas, you'll find yourself thinking, "The detail is already a perfect 10, how could it possibly get any better?"
Extremely Diverse Arsenal
I was initially a bit worried there wouldn't be enough to play with, but now those concerns are completely gone. Two shotguns with stocks, two giant bazookas, four axes, two missiles, two beam sabers, a long chain mine, and a "suitcase"...
The shotguns can be loaded, and the stock can be removed. Personally, I find it easier to handle without the stock. The shotguns can be mounted on the rear skirt armor.
The bazookas have removable magazines and can be mounted on the back or held in hand. They can be shouldered or held under the arm.
The beam saber hilts can be stored inside the thighs. There's a mechanism on the back of the leg that allows you to push out the stored hilt, so you don't have to worry about it getting stuck.
The beam sabers are the usual affair, with some silver paint applied near the hilt.
The two missiles can be held by hand or mounted on the arms or calves.
The four axes—two small and two large—can be held by hand or mounted on the arms or calves.
By the way, a friend asked why I wasn't playing with the "chain mine." I've always been a bit hesitant about wire-based weapons. This time, I made an exception and gave it a try, and the experience was surprisingly good.
First off, the chain mine is very long, and just swinging it around is impressive. If an NT-1 is released in the future, it will be absolutely epic—you'll have to wrap the chain mine around the NT-1.
Additionally, the suitcase is also well done. The chain mine can be stored inside it, one mine at a time. It's not too difficult, but aligning and inserting each one perfectly can be a bit tricky. However, even if one or two are misaligned, it doesn't really affect the overall look, and you can still close it up and mount it on the back.
The suitcase can also be placed on the ground, adding another variation for posing and play, which is actually a very nice touch.
Articulation Could Be Improved
If there's one "shortcoming," it would have to be the articulation. The upper body is fine, but the lower body, especially the thighs, lacks a sufficient range of motion. Perhaps this is the only minor flaw in an otherwise near-perfect figure...?
In the anime, the Kämpfer had a boss-level startup sequence, but it was unceremoniously destroyed by machine-gun fire—a death hardly befitting a machine of its stature. Fortunately, this METAL BUILD release finally gives this mobile suit the grand stage it deserves.
For the full report, please visit my humble toy page. Thank you for your support.
https://www.facebook.com/ki0079.robot.workshops