Building The MG Strike Gundam: Original Versus Version 2.0

The MG Strike Gundam remains one of the most approachable 1/100 Master Grade kits, combining the recognisable mobile suit from Mobile Suit Gundam SEED with a frame that rewards careful assembly. Comparing the original release with Version 2.0 reveals how much Gunpla engineering has changed, from joint construction and proportions to armour separation and posing stability.

For Australian builders, the choice also involves local availability, shipping costs and bench conditions. A kit found at a Melbourne or Sydney hobby shop may cost more than an imported preorder, while summer heat in Brisbane or a dry Canberra winter can affect cement, paint and decal work. Both versions are worthwhile, but they suit different expectations.

Choosing The Right Starting Point

The original Master Grade Strike Gundam has an appealing mechanical simplicity. Its construction is straightforward, the inner frame is easy to understand, and the finished model has the classic angular silhouette associated with early MG releases. Builders who enjoy a solid, traditional kit often appreciate how quickly it comes together.

Version 2.0 presents a more modern interpretation, with cleaner proportions, improved articulation and a greater emphasis on poseability. Its torso, hips and ankles generally offer more movement, making dynamic stances with the beam rifle, shield or Aile Striker equipment easier to achieve. The trade-off is a more involved build with smaller parts and tighter tolerances.

Frame And Engineering

The older frame has a sturdy, uncomplicated character. It may not reproduce every movement of the animated suit, yet it provides a dependable foundation for assembly and display. Some joints can feel basic by current standards, particularly around the waist and shoulders, but that can make the kit less intimidating for a first Master Grade project.

The Version 2.0 frame is designed around layered movement. Shoulder blocks, elbows, knees and hip joints work together to create a more expressive range of motion. Builders should test each joint before adding all the armour, as a small amount of friction or mould-line cleanup can make a significant difference. The essential tool guide is useful when preparing nippers, files and a fine hobby knife for this stage.

Armour And Surface Detail

The original Strike has broad armour panels and a crisp, recognisable outline, though some areas can appear visually plain beside newer MG releases. Its colour separation is effective, but painters may want to add subtle grey tones to the inner frame and vents to prevent the completed model from looking too toy-like.

Version 2.0 usually gives builders more layered detail to work with. Recesses, panel lines and exposed mechanical sections create natural opportunities for washes and dry brushing. The additional detail should be handled with restraint: a light grey panel wash and carefully placed metallic accents can add depth without overwhelming the white armour.

For airbrushing or hand-painting, allow parts to acclimatise indoors after delivery. A hot parcel left in the sun outside an Australian home can soften plastic bags, loosen stickers or make paint products behave unpredictably. Builders looking for colour inspiration can also browse paint reference ideas before committing to a custom scheme.

Assembly Experience

The original release is a satisfying weekend build for many hobbyists. Its instructions are relatively easy to follow, and the larger parts make it simple to understand how the mobile suit’s sections fit together. It is a good platform for learning nub removal, seam inspection and basic panel lining without too many distractions.

Version 2.0 rewards slower construction. There are more moving elements, tighter connections and more opportunities to damage a surface by forcing a part into place. Dry-fitting is especially important around the waist, shoulder armour and backpack. Keep small runners or labelled trays nearby, since Australia’s larger homes and shared workspaces often mean a project is packed away between sessions rather than left permanently on the bench.

Painting And Customising

Both kits respond well to restrained customisation. The Strike’s white, blue, red and yellow palette can be enhanced with slightly off-white armour, darker grey internals and a satin topcoat. A matte finish suits the military-mecha look, while a semi-gloss coat keeps the colours closer to the animated design.

Decals can transform either version, but surface preparation matters. Apply them over a smooth gloss coat, use setting solution sparingly and seal everything after it has cured. In humid coastal areas such as Sydney or Brisbane, give water-slide decals extra drying time. In dry regions, watch for dust settling on freshly sprayed clear coat and keep ventilation strong without creating a direct breeze across the model.

Display, Cost And Community Value

The original MG Strike often makes sense when bought second-hand or during a sale. Its lower entry price leaves room in the budget for an action base, replacement decals or a set of metallic paints. Version 2.0 may command a higher price through Australian retailers and can sell out quickly when a shipment arrives, so comparing local stock with imported pricing is worthwhile after adding GST and postage.

A build log can make the comparison more useful for other hobbyists. Record how the joints feel, which parts needed sanding and whether the backpack remains stable during posing. Even people who enjoy technical record-keeping may find a structured format helpful; this logging software comparison shows how detailed notes can be organised, even though its original subject is radio operation. Share completed photographs and questions through the Gundam Eclipse community to compare results with builders at every experience level.

Practical Recommendations

Choose between the two releases according to the kind of project you want, rather than assuming the newer kit is automatically the better one.

• Pick the original MG Strike for a simpler build, classic proportions and a dependable first Master Grade experience.
• Choose Version 2.0 for greater articulation, sharper surface detail and more dynamic display poses.
• Test-fit every moving section before applying paint, especially the hips, shoulders, ankles and backpack connections.
• Budget for an action base and fresh decals if you want the Strike to hold an energetic aerial pose.
• Keep the work area shaded, ventilated and dust-controlled during hot Australian weather.

Whichever release you build, photograph the frame before armour is installed, note the changes you make and post the finished Strike in the Display Case. Your comparison can help another builder decide whether the original’s simplicity or Version 2.0’s modern engineering belongs on their bench next.