MGSD Destiny Gundam: A Detailed Review & Build Guide

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Hey guys! Today, we're diving deep into the MGSD Destiny Gundam, a kit that has been generating a ton of buzz in the Gunpla community. This isn't just your average review; we're going to break down everything from the unboxing experience to the final pose, and even offer some pro tips to make your build truly shine. So, grab your nippers, clear your workspace, and let's get started on this epic journey with the MGSD Destiny Gundam!

Unboxing the MGSD Destiny Gundam: First Impressions

First impressions matter, and the MGSD Destiny Gundam definitely knows how to make a grand entrance. The box art itself is stunning, showcasing the Destiny Gundam in all its glory, striking a dynamic pose with its signature weaponry. As you open the box, you're greeted with a neatly organized array of runners, each molded in vibrant and eye-catching colors. The plastic quality feels premium to the touch, a promising sign of the build experience to come.

The sheer number of parts might seem intimidating at first, but fear not! The MGSD (Master Grade Super Deformed) line is known for its intricate details and impressive articulation, and the parts count is a testament to that. You'll find multiple runners for the main body, weapons, and effect parts, all meticulously designed to capture the essence of the Destiny Gundam. The instruction manual is clear and concise, featuring step-by-step diagrams that are easy to follow, even for builders who are relatively new to the hobby. Bandai has truly outdone themselves in packaging this kit, making the unboxing experience a delight for Gunpla enthusiasts of all levels. The undergating is strategically placed, minimizing nub marks and ensuring a cleaner finish. This attention to detail is what sets the MGSD line apart, making the Destiny Gundam a truly special addition to any collection.

The Build Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

The build process is where the magic truly happens, and the MGSD Destiny Gundam offers a rewarding experience that blends complexity with accessibility. We will break down building the head, torso, arms, legs, backpack, weapons and accessories.

Head Construction

Starting with the head, you'll immediately notice the intricate engineering that goes into these kits. Despite its smaller size, the MGSD head is packed with details, featuring sharp lines, clear parts for the eyes, and even some subtle color separation. The head is surprisingly expressive, capturing the Destiny Gundam's fierce gaze perfectly. The V-fin is molded in a vibrant gold, adding a touch of regal flair to the design. Assembling the head is a great way to get a feel for the overall complexity of the kit, and it sets the stage for the rest of the build. The multiple parts that create the head all seamlessly fit together which really highlights the overall design quality of this MGSD kit.

Torso Assembly

The torso is where the MGSD Destiny Gundam's core structure comes to life. This section involves a combination of internal frame components and external armor pieces, creating a solid and articulated base for the rest of the model. The inner frame is particularly impressive, featuring multiple points of articulation that allow for a wide range of poses. The armor pieces attach securely to the frame, creating a cohesive and visually striking silhouette. The color separation in the torso is excellent, with different shades of white, blue, and gray plastic creating a dynamic and layered look. This section of the build really showcases the engineering prowess of Bandai, demonstrating how they can pack so much detail and articulation into a relatively small package.

Arm Construction

Moving on to the arms, you'll encounter more intricate parts and clever design choices. The arms feature a double-jointed elbow, allowing for a wide range of motion and dynamic posing. The shoulder armor is particularly well-designed, with multiple layers and moving parts that don't restrict articulation. The hands are also noteworthy, featuring individually articulated fingers that can grip weapons securely. The color separation in the arms is just as impressive as in the torso, with subtle details that add depth and realism to the design. The arms seamlessly connect to the torso, creating a smooth and natural range of movement.

Leg Assembly

The legs of the MGSD Destiny Gundam are a masterpiece of engineering, combining sleek aesthetics with impressive articulation. The knee joints are double-jointed, allowing for deep and dynamic poses. The ankle joints also have a wide range of motion, providing excellent stability. The feet are particularly well-designed, with multiple points of articulation and a sturdy construction. The color separation in the legs is excellent, with different shades of white, blue, and gray plastic creating a visually appealing contrast. The legs connect securely to the torso, providing a solid and balanced base for the model.

Backpack Construction

The backpack is arguably the most iconic feature of the Destiny Gundam, and the MGSD version does not disappoint. This section of the build involves assembling the wings, beam cannons, and various thrusters, creating a visually stunning and imposing structure. The wings are articulated, allowing for a wide range of poses, from a sleek and streamlined silhouette to a more dynamic and aggressive stance. The beam cannons are also highly detailed, featuring intricate molding and clear parts. The backpack attaches securely to the torso, providing a solid and stable platform for the wings and weapons.

Weapons and Accessories

The MGSD Destiny Gundam comes with a plethora of weapons and accessories, allowing for a wide range of display options. The signature beam rifle and beam saber are included, as well as a shield and various effect parts. The weapons are highly detailed, featuring intricate molding and realistic proportions. The effect parts add an extra layer of dynamism to the poses, allowing you to recreate iconic scenes from the anime. The hands are designed to grip the weapons securely, ensuring that they won't fall out during posing.

Articulation and Posing: Unleashing the Destiny Gundam's Potential

One of the standout features of the MGSD Destiny Gundam is its exceptional articulation. The double-jointed elbows and knees, along with the wide range of motion in the shoulders, hips, and ankles, allow for a vast array of dynamic poses. You can easily recreate iconic scenes from the anime, or come up with your own unique stances. The articulated fingers are a particularly nice touch, allowing for expressive hand gestures and a more realistic grip on weapons. The backpack and wings are also articulated, allowing for even more posing possibilities. Whether you prefer a stoic and imposing stance or a dynamic and action-packed pose, the MGSD Destiny Gundam can deliver.

Detailing and Customization: Taking Your Build to the Next Level

While the MGSD Destiny Gundam looks fantastic straight out of the box, there are several ways to enhance its appearance and make it truly your own. Panel lining is a simple yet effective technique that adds depth and definition to the molded details. Using a fine-tipped marker or enamel wash, you can trace the panel lines and create a more three-dimensional look. Applying decals is another great way to add visual interest and personalize your build. The kit comes with a sheet of waterslide decals, but you can also use third-party decals for even more customization options. For those who are more adventurous, painting is a great way to completely transform the look of your kit. You can use spray paints, acrylics, or even markers to add custom colors and finishes.

Final Thoughts: Is the MGSD Destiny Gundam Worth It?

So, the big question: is the MGSD Destiny Gundam worth the hype? In my opinion, absolutely! This kit is a triumph of engineering and design, offering a rewarding build experience, exceptional articulation, and stunning aesthetics. The level of detail packed into this small package is truly impressive, and the final result is a display piece that you'll be proud to showcase. Whether you're a seasoned Gunpla veteran or a newcomer to the hobby, the MGSD Destiny Gundam is a kit that you won't want to miss. It's a fantastic representation of the Destiny Gundam and a testament to Bandai's commitment to quality and innovation. The MGSD line has set a new standard for Super Deformed kits, and the Destiny Gundam is a shining example of what can be achieved when passion and engineering excellence come together.

Where to Buy the MGSD Destiny Gundam

If you're eager to get your hands on this kit, you have several options. Online retailers like Amazon, HLJ (HobbyLink Japan), and USA Gundam Store are great places to start. Local hobby shops are also worth checking out, as they often carry the latest Gunpla releases. Prices can vary depending on the retailer and availability, but you can generally expect to pay around $50-$70 USD for the MGSD Destiny Gundam. Keep an eye out for sales and promotions, as you might be able to snag a deal. No matter where you buy it from, you're in for a treat with this kit.

Tips and Tricks for Building the MGSD Destiny Gundam

Before we wrap up, here are a few tips and tricks to help you get the most out of your MGSD Destiny Gundam build:

  • Take your time: Don't rush the build process. Enjoy the experience of assembling the kit, and take breaks when needed. This will help you avoid mistakes and ensure a cleaner finish.
  • Use proper tools: Invest in a good pair of nippers, a hobby knife, and some sanding sticks. These tools will make the build process much easier and more enjoyable.
  • Panel line before assembly: Panel lining individual parts before assembling them can be easier and cleaner than panel lining the entire model after it's built.
  • Apply decals carefully: Waterslide decals can be tricky to apply, so take your time and follow the instructions carefully. Use a decal softening solution for best results.
  • Don't be afraid to customize: Feel free to add your own personal touches to the kit, whether it's through painting, weathering, or adding third-party parts.

Community and Resources

Gunpla is a hobby that's best enjoyed with others, so be sure to connect with the Gunpla community online and in person. There are numerous forums, social media groups, and local clubs where you can share your builds, ask for advice, and make new friends. Websites like Reddit's r/Gunpla and Gundam Amino are great places to start. You can also find a wealth of resources online, including build guides, reviews, and tutorials. Don't hesitate to reach out to the community for help or inspiration – we're all here to support each other and celebrate our love of Gunpla!

Conclusion: The MGSD Destiny Gundam - A Must-Have for Gunpla Fans

In conclusion, the MGSD Destiny Gundam is a must-have for any Gunpla enthusiast. Its exceptional detail, articulation, and overall design make it a standout kit in the MGSD line. Whether you're a seasoned builder or just starting out, you'll find the build process rewarding and the final result impressive. So, go ahead and add the MGSD Destiny Gundam to your collection – you won't be disappointed!