Gallaba (ガラバ, Gallaba)
The only "Aura Fighter" to appear in the TV series. Unlike the humanoid Aura Battlers, it is a new type of Drake Army machine designed specifically for aerial combat, prioritizing mobility and firepower.
Its armaments include a long-barreled Aura Cannon mounted on the upper part of its main body. Each side of the left and right Aura Converters features an Aura Vulcan Cannon. The feet are equipped with twin-barreled retractable wired claws. Although it possesses a pair of claws with built-in triple Aura Cannons, these are merely weapon mounts that eliminate the five fingers, making it impossible to grasp melee weapons (though it might be possible to punch enemy machines). It is a hit-and-run type machine specialized for shooting, abandoning close combat, and designed to deliver overwhelming performance against Aura Battlers in aerial combat.
Due to its complex manufacturing process, high cost, and the inability of regular soldiers to fully utilize its power, there are significant doubts about its mass-production value.
Upon its completion, it was piloted by its creator, Jett Light. Later, it was used by the protagonist's arch-nemesis, Sho Zama's rival, Black Knight, and subsequently grew in size.
It was already developed before arriving in the Upper Earth, but because it was the period when Jett transformed from a technician into an Aura Battler, adjustments were delayed, and it was left untouched for a long time (its first appearance was in a hangar, unactivated; ironically, the 'BuBuYi' developed from its concept was deployed into actual combat earlier). Therefore, its actual deployment into combat was near the end of the series, but it seems a small number were produced alongside the prototype, as multiple units participated in the final battle.
It's rare for all Aura Battler machines to be released, and as a die-hard Aura Battler fan, collecting them all is truly a precious opportunity!
Let's talk about the Gallaba product! The main body has a very dominant appearance with clean lines. Since there's no paint application, the quality control is quite good... Besides Gallaba being Black Knight's final ride and the only Aura Fighter in the series, a major selling point is undoubtedly the inclusion of figures, which are less common in Robot Spirits releases! In addition to Black Knight, it also includes the final scene – the confrontation between Sho Zama and Black Knight before Sho's sword pierces him! This alone is enough to make D.M.S. open his wallet!
The main body doesn't have many joints, but my only complaint is that the joint tightness is just average. Therefore, the manufacturer has provided two stands for display to support the weight of the two Aura Engines. Of course, if you apply joint cement or use Blu Tack, I believe the problem can be solved!
The main body is relatively simple, with articulation mainly concentrated in the twin "arms" and claws, as well as the wings. The cockpit also faithfully recreates the original design! So, overall, the product accurately reproduces the Gallaba's appearance. As a die-hard Aura Battler fan, I have no complaints!
I hope that all Heavy Metal L-Gaim machines will also be released in the future, allowing me, the most passionate Heavy Metal L-Gaim fan, to fulfill my wish. Furthermore, I also hope that another Aura Battler series - AURA FHANTASM - will be fully released! Because Yutaka Izubuchi's designs for this series are truly my cup of tea! And every machine released by Robot Spirits has not disappointed me! Bandai! If you release it, I'll buy it!
D.M.S. Play Scoring Play Scoring
Look (40) 33.5
Articulation and Poseable (20) 12
Accessories and Gimmick (20) 15
QC (10) 7
Price (10) 5
Total Score: 72.5 points