A figure of the Super Gundam from the anime "Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam" is generating buzz as it will be released as "ROBOT Spirits <SIDE MS> RX-178+FXA-05D Super Gundam ver. ANIME" from Bandai Spirits' "ROBOT Spirits" series. What is the Super Gundam...?
◇Developing the concept of G parts
The Super Gundam is a combined form of the Gundam Mk-II and the G-Defenser, and its official name is "Mk-II Defenser".
During the Gryps Conflict in "Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam," as mobile suits (MS) evolved, the emergence of transformable MS dramatically improved their mobility and combat capabilities. In response to a request from the AEUG, Anaheim Electronics (AE) developed the G-Defenser, a transformable fighter, as a support mecha for the Mk-II. The G-Defenser was a support mecha that evolved from the concept of the G-Parts, which were deployed as support mecha for the Gundams during the One Year War in "Mobile Suit Gundam," and was intended to dramatically improve the performance of the Mk-II and revive it as a frontline unit. The Mk-II and the G-Defenser can combine to enhance mobility and armament, and can also transform into the G-Flyer, a high-speed cruising form.
When the two units combine, control is transferred to the Mk-II, allowing the G-Defenser pilot to detach the cockpit block and withdraw from the battle.
◇Not discarded
The G-Defenser was deployed to the Argama and, during its adjustments, was put into combat for the first time at the sole discretion of Katsu Kobayashi. From then on, Katsu became almost exclusively its pilot. It played an active role in missions that utilized its maneuverability, such as long- and medium-range support, bombing, and reconnaissance.
The reason Super Gundam is so exciting is probably because of the romantic appeal of its "combination" ability. Although it relinquishes its role as the main mobile suit with the arrival of Z Gundam, it is not discarded, and through its combination ability, it continues to fight as a main force until the end of the Gryps Conflict. This classic development of powering up through combination thrilled the hearts of children at the time of its broadcast.
The collaboration and clashes between Emma Sheen, the pilot of the Mk-II, and Katz, the pilot of the G-Defenser, are depicted, creating a dramatic feel that likely contributes to the deep affection many fans have for these mechs, even as adults.
◇ROBOT SPIRITS that combine and transform
The newly announced Super Gundam figure recreates the combination of the Mk-II and G-Defenser, as well as its transformation into the G-Flyer. It comes with a wealth of weapons, including a beam rifle, beam saber, hyper bazooka, vulcan pod system, and shield, and can also carry the G-Defenser's long rifle.
The "ROBOT SPIRITS" series is unique in that it reproduces the proportions from the anime and design drawings while boasting a wide range of motion. It seems that the "romance" of the Super Gundam has been reconstructed with the latest technology of the Reiwa era.
The "ROBOT SPIRITS <SIDE MS> RX-178+FXA-05D Super Gundam ver. ANIME" is available for pre-order on Bandai Namco Group's shopping site, "Premium Bandai." It costs 15,400 yen and is scheduled to ship in September. The G-Defenser is also available separately as "ROBOT SPIRITS <SIDE MS> FXA-05D G-Defenser ver. ANIME" on "Premium Bandai" for 6,050 yen. (Man Animai/MANTANWEB)
