1/60 VF-1A (Max DYRL Type)
As a collector, there are a few things that I really am actively looking for in my collection, like S.H. Figuarts Kamen Rider Skull, Land Bison from Da Garn, a complete G1 Bruticus, the list goes on and on. However, I am now able to happily clear off one big thing from that list.
Ever since Atom first reviewed the new 1/60 Yamato Valkyrie back almost three years ago, my eyes were set on that toy and I said to myself “One day, I’m going to own one of those”. That day has finally come.
This version of the VF-1A is the Do You Remember Love Max Genius version. I was simultaneously expecting and surprised by how sharp all of the paint and tampo details are all over this toy. The shade of blue they use for the details is just right, and the just slightly off white plastic looks just like it did in the movie. Everything just looks gorgeous on it.
The headsculpt on the 1A is absolutely gorgeous. Simple, geometrical, mechanical, and I love every bit of it. It’s funny how when I was a kid the 1A head design was my least favorite. Now it’s by far my favorite of the original VF-1 Valkyries due to its simple design and mass produced feel; I do love me some cannon fodder mecha.
All of the joints are smooth and super tight. The legs are a little different to pose at first, but eventually it all felt very natural to do.
Two alternate hands are also included: one stylized hand for holding the gunpod, and another hand splayed open for holding the gunpod or to reach out at things dramatically.
When I first opened up my Valkyrie, I was so worried about breaking something that I spent at least twenty minutes trying to transform the toy for the first time. It was an almost heart attack inducing experience, but I still loved every moment of it.
I’ve always heard of how nice the GERWALK mode was, but now that I am able to see it and hold it for myself I can really take that statement to heart. The leg splay is perfect and the GERWALK just looks so good.
The fighter mode is just as gorgeous. I thought that I would only display my Valkyrie in Battroid mode, but now I find myself constantly changing between the three different configurations. Even the fighter mode has its charm just resting there on its landing gear, as if it’s in the hanger of the SDF-1 prepping to launch.
The tiny little Max Genius inside is incredibly tiny and well painted. It’s really amazing how tiny some of the paint applications on this toy are.
Two sets of missile pods are also included, but I prefer to keep my Valkyrie clean.
By now almost everyone knows how fantastic the 1/60 Yamato Valkyries are now. This is just my chance to finally share that I’ve managed to get my hands on a Yamato of my own, and that it’s truly everything that I dreamed it would be.