HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog: A Detailed Review

Hey guys! Today, we’re diving deep into the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog, a kit that brings a unique and somewhat obscure mobile suit to life. If you're a fan of Gelgoogs or just love collecting High Grade kits, this one might pique your interest. So, let's get started and see what makes this kit stand out, its pros and cons, and whether it's worth adding to your collection.

Unboxing and First Impressions

When you first get your hands on the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog box, you'll notice the standard High Grade packaging. The box art usually features the Gelgoog in some dynamic pose, giving you a good idea of what the finished model will look like. Inside, you'll find several runners of plastic parts, an instruction manual, and a sticker sheet. The parts are typically molded in multiple colors, which reduces the need for extensive painting, especially for beginners. The plastic quality is generally good, consistent with other HG kits, meaning it's durable enough for posing and handling without being too brittle.

The instruction manual is straightforward and easy to follow, even if you're new to Gunpla. It guides you step-by-step through the assembly process, with clear diagrams and part numbers. The sticker sheet provides additional details, such as markings and sensor colors, to enhance the model's appearance. However, keep in mind that stickers might not always provide the most seamless look, and some modelers prefer to paint these details for a cleaner finish. Overall, the initial impression is that this is a well-organized and manageable kit, suitable for both beginners and experienced builders.

Assembly Process

Assembling the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog is a pretty smooth experience. The parts fit together well, and you shouldn't encounter too many issues with seam lines or misaligned pieces. The kit features a standard HG construction, which means it's designed for easy snap-fitting. You'll need a good pair of nippers to remove the parts from the runners cleanly, and a hobby knife can help with any remaining nubs. The construction starts with the legs, then moves to the torso, arms, and head, before finally assembling the weapons and accessories.

One of the enjoyable aspects of building this kit is seeing the Gelgoog's unique design come together. The Bocatas version has some distinct features, such as its custom backpack and weaponry, which set it apart from the standard Gelgoog. Pay close attention to the instructions when assembling these parts to ensure everything fits correctly. While the kit doesn't require glue, some builders might choose to use it to reinforce certain connections or eliminate seam lines for a more polished look. On average, building this kit should take around 2 to 4 hours, depending on your experience level and how meticulous you are with the assembly process. The end result is a solid and posable figure that captures the essence of the Bocatas Gelgoog.

Design and Features

The design of the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog is where this kit really shines. The Gelgoog itself is a classic mobile suit from the Universal Century timeline, known for its sleek lines and powerful presence. The Bocatas variant adds some unique elements that make it stand out. One of the most noticeable features is the custom backpack, which is equipped with additional thrusters and hardpoints for mounting weapons. This gives the mobile suit a more aggressive and heavily armed appearance. The kit also includes a unique beam rifle and shield, designed specifically for the Bocatas Gelgoog. These weapons are well-detailed and add to the overall aesthetic of the model.

The articulation of the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog is pretty standard for a High Grade kit. It features movable joints in the arms, legs, and torso, allowing for a decent range of poses. However, don't expect the same level of flexibility as you would find in a Master Grade or Real Grade kit. The head can rotate, and the mono-eye is usually represented with a sticker. The kit also includes optional hand parts for holding weapons or posing with open hands. One potential downside is the lack of an internal frame, which is common in HG kits. This means that the joints are directly connected to the outer armor, which can limit the range of motion to some extent. Despite this, the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog is still capable of achieving some dynamic and interesting poses, making it a great display piece.

Accuracy and Detailing

When it comes to accuracy, the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog does a decent job of capturing the look and feel of the original design. The proportions are generally accurate, and the kit includes many of the key details that define the Bocatas variant. However, as with most HG kits, some details are simplified or omitted to keep the part count and complexity down. The panel lines are well-defined, which makes it easy to add further detail with panel line accent colors. The kit also includes a sticker sheet with additional markings and sensor details. While stickers are a convenient way to add color and detail, they don't always provide the most seamless look.

For modelers who want to take the detailing to the next level, painting is definitely an option. The kit is molded in multiple colors, but adding a custom paint job can really make the model stand out. You can use masking techniques to create sharp lines and add weathering effects to give the Gelgoog a more battle-worn appearance. Additionally, aftermarket decals can be used to add even more detail and customization. Overall, the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog provides a solid foundation for detailing and customization, allowing you to create a truly unique and personalized model.

Pros and Cons

Alright, let's break down the pros and cons of the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog kit. On the positive side, the kit is relatively easy to assemble, making it suitable for beginners. The parts fit together well, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow. The design of the Bocatas Gelgoog is unique and visually appealing, with its custom backpack and weaponry. The kit also offers a good balance of detail and simplicity, making it a fun and rewarding build. The price point is also reasonable, making it an accessible option for collectors.

However, there are also some downsides to consider. The articulation is limited compared to more advanced kits, such as Master Grades or Real Grades. The kit lacks an internal frame, which can restrict the range of motion. The stickers, while convenient, might not provide the most seamless look, and some builders may prefer to paint the details. Additionally, the kit may require some seam line removal and cleanup for a more polished finish. Despite these drawbacks, the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog is still a worthwhile kit, especially for fans of the Gelgoog or collectors looking for a unique addition to their lineup.

Final Verdict

So, what's the final verdict on the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog? Overall, it's a solid and enjoyable kit that offers a good balance of design, detail, and ease of assembly. The Bocatas Gelgoog's unique features make it stand out from other HG kits, and it's a great option for both beginners and experienced builders. While it has some limitations in terms of articulation and detailing, these can be overcome with some extra effort and customization.

If you're a fan of the Gelgoog or just looking for a fun and interesting build, the HG 1/144 Bocatas Gelgoog is definitely worth considering. It's a great addition to any Gunpla collection and a fun way to spend a few hours building and posing a cool-looking mobile suit. Plus, it's a relatively affordable option, making it accessible to a wide range of builders. So go ahead and give it a try – you might just find yourself adding another Gelgoog to your growing army!