METAL BUILD PROVIDENCE GUNDAM Review

This is a review of METAL BUILD Providence Gundam(ZGMF-X13A).

The whole body without a backpack. Compared to Freedom and the like, the physique itself is bulky, and combined with the grey body color, it has an intimidating appearance befitting a final boss.

Backpack attached. This time, the backpack has been given a much stronger treatment, giving it a more detailed look than the original.

The back. Although it can stand on its own, the backpack is quite heavy, so if you plan on displaying it for a long period of time, it might be a good idea to place some kind of support underneath the backpack.

The face. The mask-like design, which appears to have been designed with Krusset in mind, is sharper than the original, making it look even more menacing.

The eyes are painted metallic as usual, and the paint on the cheek ducts and other small details is accurate.

From below too.

Each part, etc. A wide and thick body shape befitting a final boss. MB-like details have been added to improve the sense of precision, and the coloring has also changed slightly, with the pipes now being two colors.

Waist.

Arms and legs. The arms aren’t that thick, but the legs are quite thick. Panel lines have been added to the shoulders to make them look more stiff. The two shades of grey are the same as before, but the arrangement has changed quite a bit.

The shoulder markings are asymmetrical.

The back. As mentioned before, the backpack looks amazing.

A unique gimmick of Metal Build is that the backpack can be expanded up, down, left and right, making it even larger.

You can also pull out the base to adjust the angle.

Additionally, the base of each Dragoon was also movable and could be pointed forward.

The neck and waist have a sufficient swing range, the shoulders can be raised high, and the elbows and knees can be bent deeply.

The hip joints are also retractable, allowing for a wide range of movement back and forth, and the ground contact is also decent. The shoulders can be extended up by 30 to 40 degrees, but only slightly forward and backward.

option.

Complete pedestal.

Fully equipped.

behind.

Eudycium Beam Rifle. This one is also precisely made with the same molding and markings as the main body.

There is also an original MB gimmick that allows you to expand the barrel and rear part, and the foregrip can bend left and right, as well as slide back and forth.

Composite weapon mantlet system. This one is also heavily modified, with many colors and an emphasis on the three-dimensional look.

The back side. A rare style that completely covers the arm.

When you open the cover, there is a grip that you can hold in place. It is also secured in place by a pin in the forearm hole, so it is held in place stably.

Like the rifle, it also has an original deployment gimmick.

A large beam effect that can be attached to the muzzle is also included.

It also comes with a stand to display the Dragoons in their ejected state. There are 11 of these for each Dragoon.

In this state, you’ll need a huge amount of space above, below, left and right.

The tip of the Dragoon strut can be bent.

Freedom Gundam CONCEPT 2. The head height is not that different, but there is a significant difference in size when you include the backpack.

Also, CONCEPT 2 SNOW SPARKLE Ver. I think this one has a more prominent Yin and Yang feel.

Also known as the METAL ROBOT Spirits version. When lined up, it’s easy to see how well-arranged it is.

Just a few at a time.

As mentioned above, the movement is generally good, and the joints are stable as usual.

Eudycium beam rifle deployed.

From behind. The backpack connection is not that hard, so you need to be careful not to accidentally disconnect it while touching other parts.

The beam saber blade is also quite large and impressive. The shoulder does not rotate, but it can rise about 110 degrees, so I had no complaints.

Slashing downward. The waist also rotates about 45 degrees, so fighting poses are no problem.

Dragoon launch.

Each can be moved at two points: the base and the tip of the support.

It doesn’t have the same effects as ROBOT Spirits or METAL ROBOT Spirits, but that may be due to the price.

Full burst.

In the film, he faces off against Freedom in a scene with Strike.

The METAL BUILD Providence Gundam delivers a stunning rendition of the iconic final boss from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED.

Design and Craftsmanship

The figure boasts exceptional detailing, particularly in its revamped backpack, which feels significantly more refined than the original design. The proportions, oversized backpack, and vibrant color scheme align perfectly with the Providence Gundam’s menacing aesthetic, exuding a commanding presence. Every element feels meticulously crafted, making this model a standout in the METAL BUILD lineup.

Articulation and Playability

Despite its bulky design, the Providence Gundam offers impressive mobility with minimal joint interference, ensuring dynamic posing options. The Dragoon gimmicks and accompanying weapons are intricately designed, providing engaging play value. While the backpack connection and some independent parts require careful handling, these minor considerations barely detract from the overall experience.

Collector’s Appeal

As the antagonist of Gundam SEED, the Providence Gundam feels like a special release, elevated by its premium treatment. With the recent Gundam SEED movie reigniting interest after nearly two decades, this figure taps into a renewed wave of excitement. Collectors may hope for future releases of secondary mobile suits like the Duel to expand the METAL BUILD roster.

Pros:

• Striking proportions and detailed backpack design
• Smooth articulation for a bulky figure
• Fun, well-executed Dragoon and weapon gimmicks

Cons:

• Backpack connections need careful attention
• Some parts feel delicate

The METAL BUILD Providence Gundam is a must-have for Gundam SEED fans and collectors, blending premium craftsmanship with nostalgic appeal. Its release feels timely, and it sets a high bar for future entries in the series.