Gunbuster

If you are any kind of super robot fan you know of Gunbuster. This iconic robot comes from the 1988 OVA “Aim for the Top!” which is known for Hideki Anno’s directorial debut, and most importantly, the origin of the Gainax Bounce.

The Super Robot Chogokin Gunbuster is the second diecast version of the character to date, and currently the only affordable choice (if you need metal in your toy).

Super Robot Chogokin Gunbuster is available from HobbyLink Japan.

The box is typical SRC style, nothing special here. Inside, you get plastic trays with parts – you know the drill. No surprises here.

In fact, Gunbuster is everything you expect it to be – a solid release with no major issues.

The toy looks good from all sides, despite the screw holes on the backside.

Articulation is great: double jointed elbows and knees, multiple chest joints – almost everything you could want for the character.

The only thing missing is the ability to do it’s signature arms crossed pose well.

Included are two giant bats called “Buster Home Run” which are essentially used to administer a beat-down to the alien Space Monsters. They fit in the variant holding hands.

Gunbuster can replicate the scene of it holding it’s power generator core torn from its chest. This is accomplished by removing the chest plate and attaching the power generator via a plug.

The most significant amount of accessories are included to replicate the Double Buster Collider attack. The variant arms separate above the elbows and have panels that plug in to replicate the extended antennae. The lower legs feature removable panels that get replaced with the Buster Collider parts.

The collider parts are frustrating to apply. Each limb features two panels that snap onto the leg, and underneath each panel are two sets of antennae that plug in. The fit on these is awkward and more than often when attaching the panels to the legs you will knock the other parts off.

While no Tamashii Stand is included (as usual), there is a Tamashii Stand adapter should you have a stand hanging around.

The stand enables you to attach the Inazuma Kick parts to the feet. They are somewhat difficult to get in due to the size, but once in they stay attached securely.

But what about the other accessories? Where is the cape and the arm cannons? Unfortunately those were sold in a Tamashii Web Exclusive set called “Hard Work and Guts Set” released in July 2013.

Super Robot Chogokin Gunbuster is available from HobbyLink Japan.