Just like most HGUC of transformable designs before, ZZ is a partsformer. Which means, to change ZZ into G-Fortress or separate into Core Top and Core Base you need to attach/detach/reattach some parts. Unlike HGUC Z Gundam or ReZel though, the leftover parts from transformation aren’t that much. It’s still plenty in number, but at least you won’t leave both hands and half torso behind.
As you can see, major parts that left behind after transformation are head, feet, hands, and backpack connector. The rest of them are small parts on arms and legs. Worry not; you won’t lose those small parts since you can put them on a container that also functions as display base adapter for G-Fortress. But not the major parts I mentioned before, although they are big enough so you won’t lose them. Parts that you need to attach are torso/fuselage connector, thrusters for arms and legs, and new backpack connector. You can also put the thrusters on the same container (once you revert back to MS mode).
Core Top is easily done, all parts fit snugly in their new designated place. Not much to complain here.
Core base is slightly trickier. You need to rotate the legs and then reattach lower leg in opposite end, creating a slight disorientation. Quite lot of works for the leg, I wish they can make it simpler. Also, for Core Base, it won’t complete without a Neo Core Fighter.
It’s not transformable at all, although you can adjust the position of the engine blocks. No landing gear whatsoever and there’s a huge unsightly hole in the back (to connect into Core Base) so it’s not meant to be a stand alone display piece. And it needs a lot of painting too.
To combine into G-Fortress, ditch the Core Fighter, fold the wings of Core Base down, and connect it into Core Top. Done.
Now, the verdict. Is it any good? Let me list things I complained on this kit :
-The articulation is decent, but it could be better. There are lots of wasted chances of improvement there.
-No optional left hand.
-No saber-wielding hand for left arm. Dual saber wield is impossible.
-Beam saber-backpack connection point is too small and fragile
-That red part on knee armor could easily molded separately rather than need to painted on.
-Clear parts for Neo Core Fighter canopy would be nice instead of just flat black.
-No landing gear or at least display base adapter for Neo Core Fighter. Judau spent a lot of time in this Core Fighter, give it some love!
-HGUC ReZel got a clear sticker sheet, why not ZZ? I want at least AEUG or ZZ logo.
-No display base included.
Quite a lot, but not that significant. Now, the good things of this kit :
-The best looking ZZ Gundam in 1/144 scale, in term of proportion and design.
-Plenty of surface details.
-It’s transformable. Yes, it’s partformer but understandable due to its scale. And remember that it’s much better than non-transformable HGUC S/Ex-S Gundam.
-A benefit from partformer nature, both modes are solid.
-A container to hold small (but important) parts left for transformation. Nice touch.
-Nice color separation (except for red part on the knee I mentioned above). We may have to paint all those yellow verniers in the past.
-Beam saber clear parts are from 1/100 line.
-Missile container gimmick.
-The hands provided for both Double Beam Rifle and Hyper Beam Saber attach very securely on each weapon.
-I say again: it looks GREAT.
If you like the design of ZZ Gundam, then grab this kit. It’s the best (and newest) representation of ZZ in 1/144 scale. The other choices are awfully proportioned HG from 90’s or plain 1/144 from 80’s. And MG ZZ, while bigger and more detailed is already 11 years old. If you’re not into ZZ that much, you can appreciate the unique design of ZZ in this HGUC. It’s a titular MS in one of UC original trilogy, so it’s a must in your gunpla collection anyway.
Reeoyuy 