Assault Kingdom : Unicorn Gundam 02 Banshee Norn (Unicorn Mode) (UC magazine special)

Today we're going to take a closer look on a recent item in the still infant Assault Kingdom line. As I write this, the second set of four mobile suits has just been released this June, leaving a total number of eight models in the ordinary line as well as one additional larger item (the NZ-666 Kshattriya). Here however, is what appears to be the first special model in the line. Given away with the April issue of the Gundam Unicorn Ace magazine is this attractive dark blue RX-0[N] Banshee Norn. Considering the fact that out of the first eight models six are white and the remaining two are red this Gundam would add some much needed colour to the roster. Although there have already been two white RX-0 Gundams in the line so far, I don't deem it unlikely that this Banshee Norn will eventually join the regular line, but just in case it won't I decided not to sleep on this one and sought one out.

Whereas the regular Assault Kingdom figures come in small boxes similar to the Gundam Converge line (just a little bit bigger) - complete with the typical chewing gum and all - this particular figure comes in an oversized but pretty flat cardboard box. Inside is the figure packaged in a compartmentalized plastic bag, though no gum is included. The Assault Kingdom figures are designed to be attached to customizable stands for some out of the ordinary posing, and although this one is no different, no stand components are attached with this particular figure and so you'll need to use parts for one of the regular figures. As you can see from the image above the figure comes with a choice of hands as well as its Beam Magnum weapon and shield. The shield can be attached to either of the wrists or onto the figure's flight pack, which is not removable. The figure has a total of six hot spots where it can be pegged to the modular stands designed for the Assault Kingdom line; two on the wrists, two under the feet and two on its back.

As you can see in the above comparison image the figure scales perfectly with its older counterpart in the STANDart series, and although the older one lacks much articulation (head and shoulders rotate only) it has a lot of details and colouring that the Assault Kingdom model can only dream of. This is a typical distinction between these two product lines, but given the extreme articulation and poseability of the younger figure it outclasses the STANDart in terms of creative display. Which one you prefer is up to you, I suppose.