So how does the Z’Gok-E fare once it’s all put together?
From a purely visual perspective, this doesn’t feel like a kit from 2003. The level of parts separation - and the resultant color separation it brings - is striking regardless of its age, as is the kit’s relatively careful (but effective) use of stickers. Based purely on looks, you could have tricked me into thinking this model was released in the last ten years.
In terms of gimmicks, I’m also impressed with the fact that a kit from 2003 has articulated feet. On the other hand, the lack of articulation in the legs and arms is unacceptable considering the (only slightly older) High Grade Gogg outdoes it.
My guess - and this is only a guess - is that the Gogg has better articulation because it’s arms are longer. That means there is more space to add ball joints between each arm segment, whereas the same can’t be done for the shorter arms of the Z’Gok.
But even if that is the explanation, it doesn’t make me feel any better. As great as this model may look, there’s just not a whole lot the poor thing can do.
It can swing its claws around (but only a little), and it can open the claws to fire, and it can kneel, and … that’s about it.
I guess it can swim too, but that’s basically just propping it up horizontally on an action base:
In the end, I’m afraid this is the third build in a row that’s distinctly lacking in poseability. It’s unfortunate, but sometimes that’s the way things go.
Conclusion
I still think this is one of the best looking Z’Goks you can find. Just don’t expect it to do much more than stand there and look pretty.