RG 1/144 Hi-Nu GUNDAM

The RG Hi-Nu Gundam is one of the most anticipated Real Grade releases, bringing Amuro Ray’s iconic mobile suit from Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack – Beltorchika’s Children to the 1/144 scale with stunning detail, articulation, and engineering. Let’s break it down.

Aesthetics

The RG Hi-Nu Gundam is a masterpiece in terms of design. It retains the sleek, heavily armored yet agile appearance from its original illustrations while refining proportions for a more dynamic look. The color separation is fantastic, with multiple shades of white and blue giving the kit a premium, layered finish. The mechanical detail is subtle but effective, enhancing the realism without making it look too busy. The thrusters, vents, and panel lines all contribute to a high-end visual appeal, making this one of the best-looking RG kits to date.

Gimmicks

Bandai packed this kit with smart gimmicks that enhance both playability and realism:

Fin Funnel Deployment – The six fin funnels attach securely to the backpack and can be posed dynamically using effect parts (sold separately).

Transforming Bazooka Handle – The Hyper Bazooka features a folding handle for better storage and posing.

Articulated Hands – Unlike older RG kits, this one includes fixed hands alongside articulated ones for better weapon gripping.

Movable Armor Panels – Various armor sections, such as the shoulders and legs, feature subtle movement that adds mechanical depth.

Size

As a 1/144 scale model, the RG Hi-Nu Gundam stands taller than a standard Gundam, around 15 cm (5.9 inches). Its bulkier frame and wingspan from the Fin Funnels make it one of the largest and most imposing RG kits, giving it shelf presence comparable to an MG despite being in the Real Grade line.

Accessories

The kit comes fully loaded with weapons and accessories:

• Beam Rifle – Compact and well-designed, with a scope and extra details.
• Hyper Bazooka – Can be stored on the backpack or wielded effectively.
• Shield – Large and detailed, with excellent attachment stability.
• Beam Sabers (x2) – Clear pink effect parts included.
• Fin Funnels (x6) – Can be displayed folded or deployed, with separate effect parts available for purchase.

Overall, the accessory selection is excellent, providing everything needed to recreate signature poses from the series.

Articulation

The RG Hi-Nu Gundam features some of the best articulation in the Real Grade line, thanks to its advanced inner frame design.

Head
The head articulation is smooth, allowing for expressive tilts and full rotation. The sculpt is sharp, capturing the Hi-Nu’s distinct V-fin and face details perfectly.

Arm
The arms feature double-jointed elbows, excellent shoulder articulation, and sturdy wrist joints. Weapons are held securely with the provided fixed-pose hands.

Waist
Despite the core block system, the waist articulation is surprisingly good, with a decent range of twisting and tilting. The side skirts move independently, preventing major hindrance to leg movement.

Leg
The legs feature double-jointed knees with a layered armor separation effect. Ankle movement is excellent, allowing for strong stability even in dynamic poses. The feet have a split-toe design that helps in crouching stances.

Decals

Bandai provides a large sticker sheet with multiple markings, giving the RG Hi-Nu Gundam a more detailed, mechanical aesthetic. The decals are high quality, but some builders may find them excessive. If applied properly, they add a professional finish to the build.

Why Builders Like It

Premium Design – Sleek, modern take on a fan-favorite Gundam.

Excellent Stability – Unlike some RG kits, this one isn’t flimsy or fragile.

Fin Funnels Stay in Place – Unlike older Nu Gundam kits, the funnel attachments are secure and don’t fall off easily.

Smooth Articulation – The joints are sturdy, allowing for great dynamic posing without parts loosening over time.

Great Shelf Presence – With its size, color scheme, and accessories, this is one of the most visually striking RG kits.

Verdict

The RG Hi-Nu Gundam is one of the best Real Grades ever made. With its top-tier engineering, solid articulation, secure Fin Funnels, and stunning aesthetics, it delivers an MG-level experience in a 1/144 scale kit.

Final Score: 10/10

This is an absolute must-have for Gunpla collectors, whether you’re a fan of the Hi-Nu Gundam or just looking for an impressive RG kit that doesn’t suffer from fragility issues. Highly recommended!