For long-time admirers of the Mobile Suit Gundam SEED series, few machines carry as much significance as the Freedom Gundam. Known for its elegant form, peerless firepower and symbolic presence within the Gundam universe, it has become an enduring icon in both animation and modelling circles.
This year, Bandai Spirits is bringing this legend back with the reissue of the METAL BUILD Freedom Gundam CONCEPT 2, a figure that originally launched in 2020.
The Freedom Gundam CONCEPT 2 is not just a re-creation of what has come before. Bandai has refined this edition with a completely new design.
The most immediately noticeable improvement lies in the figure’s silhouette. Its wing structure has been carefully reengineered to offer a more lifelike range of movement. The wings are articulated in such a way that they appear to unfold naturally, allowing for a wide variety of expressive poses that reflect the mobile suit’s iconic aerial scenes in the anime.
Thanks to new joint mechanisms, the wings no longer feel like static ornaments. They shift and sweep with purpose, giving the figure a visual fluidity that was previously difficult to achieve in mecha models of this scale.
The beam weaponry, especially the Balaena plasma beam cannons, has also been significantly enhanced. The improved articulation allows for accurate reproduction of the "HiMAT Full Burst" pose, one of Freedom Gundam’s most memorable battle sequences. Unlike older models, the cannons maintain a solid, straight form throughout movement, preserving the clean lines and mechanical authenticity of the mobile suit.
This is the first METAL BUILD product to adopt a deployment structure that faithfully recreates both the centre-outward wing expansion and the uncompromised form of the beam weapons. It is a noteworthy engineering achievement and a clear indicator of the care taken in this reissue.
Poseability has likewise benefited from lessons learned in the development of other METAL BUILD models, particularly the Strike Freedom Gundam. The articulation points and joint strength have been finely tuned, making it easy to set up powerful action stances without fear of instability or imbalance.
◆Craftsmanship
The figure stands at roughly 180 millimetres tall and is composed of ABS, PVC and die-cast metal parts. This blend of materials lends it a reassuring weight and a tactile quality that elevates it above many plastic-only figures. The finish is impeccable, featuring crisp lines, layered textures and a sophisticated colour palette that captures the Freedom Gundam’s distinctive look.
What truly distinguishes this piece is its presence. Whether posed mid-flight or standing in formation, it radiates strength and composure. The visual impact is immediate and unmistakable.
The full set includes the main body, four pairs of interchangeable hands, a beam rifle, two beam sabres with a connector hilt for dual-wielding, a pair of sabre effect parts, a shield, a support joint and a custom display stand.
◆A Timely Reissue for a Global Audience
Since its original release, the Freedom Gundam CONCEPT 2 has remained one of the most sought-after METAL BUILD figures.
This updated edition comes with a revised recommended retail price of 35,200 yen including tax.
Given the calibre of the product, it represents solid value for those seeking a premium, long-lasting piece for display or collection.
