I’ve mentioned previously that the Gundam Mk. II is one of my top 3 favorites mobile suit designs. I’ve never been able to explain why in a quick and concise manner. Thankfully I no longer have to, because this test says it best - the suit’s proportions are wonderful. The individual components of the Mk. II are no different than those of the original RX78-2 Gundam, but the size and shape of each one is tweaked and improved upon. The end result is that the Mk. II removes the stiffness and boxiness inherent in even the best renditions of the RX78-2, while still remaining a simple, “pure” design, free of the ridiculous flourishes which tend to plague modern Gundam designs.
To give you an idea of what I mean, I took some pictures of the RX78-2 and the Mk II side by side so you can compare (Don’t forget that you can click the photos to see a bigger version). The most common takeaway is that Mk. II tends to be just a bit bulkier, and its parts slightly more angular. I find that this gives it a more menacing presence without making it look “bigger”. The Mk. II also has wider feet, which from a practical standpoint makes it easier to stand without falling over (and from a design standpoint, makes it look and feel a lot less fragile).
Perhaps the most drastic differences between the two models are found in the torso. The Mk. II’s rocket booster is significantly bigger than the RX78-2’s, and includes two extensions sprouting out from the top (to which the beam sabers are attached). On the front side, the Mk. II’s waist and chest are about the same length, while its predecessor opts for a much larger chest piece (this makes sense when you consider that the RX78-2’s chest has to house a Core Fighter). This is perhaps the most obvious difference in proportions between the two models, and it probably makes the biggest difference too. Lastly, note that the Mk II allows for some space between the torso and the shoulders.
What really became apparent when comparing these models is just how much their design matches up with their purpose in their respective shows. The original Gundam was a prototype, made by a military with no prior experience in developing mobile suits. If the Federation had some more time to iterate on their design, it may have looked a lot less awkward, but that wasn’t a luxury they could afford.*
The Mk. II, on the other hand, is less of a prototype than it is a proof of concept for the Moveable Frame system. And in regards to its outward appearance, its creators had all the time and funding they needed to do it right, and it shows. Compared to its ancestor, the Mk. II simply feels more practical and combat ready.
Don’t get me wrong - I still love the design of the original Gundam. Despite its shortcomings, I feel that its weapon set and color scheme are what make it truly iconic among all Gundams. But in terms of sheer cool factor, the Mk. II takes a good thing and makes it great.
I’d now like to make a few final, final observations:
All in all, this was probably my best build when looking at the finished product. I don’t really focus on the mistakes anymore, and this is the only one of the three which hasn’t fallen over in the last two months.
Now that I have all these favorite mobile suits completed, I hope that I won’t be in so much of a rush to finish whatever one I build next. I think that with more patience, I could really minimize the errors and wind up with a regret-free build.
Speaking of which, I don’t really know what my next build is going to be, or even when I’ll do it. There aren’t any other Real Grade kits I’m in love with, and since I have very little room on my desk now, I don’t know where in my house I could put a Master Grade size model. This might be the last one for a while.
Once again I would like to express how impressed I am with the Real Grade line of model kits. I am practically in awe of the fact that Bandai is able to cram in this much detail without resorting to the kind of price gouging typical of merchandise intended for otaku. I hope they continue to expand the line at a steady clip.
And with that, Gunpla Chronicles 3 officially comes to a close. Thanks to everyone who read along, and I hope to see you for the next build.