[RG] MS-06S Zaku II

Zaku II and Its Universe

The MS-06S Zaku II is one of the most iconic mobile suits in the Gundam franchise, first appearing in the 1979 anime Mobile Suit Gundam. Piloted by the legendary Char Aznable and designed by renowned mechanical designer Kunio Okawara, the Zaku II’s distinctive red armor and formidable weaponry symbolize both Zeon’s military presence and Char’s personal style. With improved mobility, signature armaments like the Heat Hawk and Zaku Bazooka, and Char’s unparalleled piloting skills, the Zaku II played a key role in early battles against the Earth Federation.

 Release Date and Price of the RG Zaku II

The RG MS-06S Zaku II was released on November 27, 2010, as one of the very first kits in Bandai’s Real Grade (RG) lineup. Built at 1/144 scale, it launched with a price tag of 2,500JPY (Japanese Yen). While not particularly cheap at the time, it remains reasonably priced today, especially when compared to more recent RG releases that often come with higher price points due to added complexity and accessories.

Pros and Cons Analysis

Pros

1. Detail and Quality: With around 300 parts, the kit offers impressive detail for its scale. Sharp panel lines and intricate part separation faithfully recreate the iconic appearance of Char’s Zaku II.
   
   
2. Articulation: The kit uses the first-generation Advanced MS Joint (MS Joint ver. 1.0), which provides a decent range of motion in the arms, legs, and torso. While it’s an older system, it still allows for expressive poses.
   
   
3. Iconic Design: As Char Aznable’s signature machine, the Zaku II holds enduring appeal for collectors and fans. Its red color scheme and unmistakable silhouette have become legendary in the Gunpla world.

Cons

1. Assembly Complexity: The MS Joint frame can be somewhat fragile or stiff in certain areas, making assembly less intuitive than modern RG kits with improved inner frames.
   
   
2. Durability: Over time, the MS Joint components—especially in areas supporting larger weapons like the Heat Hawk and Bazooka—may become loose or less stable, which affects long-term poseability.
   
   
3. Outdated Engineering: Compared to more recent releases like the RX-78-2 Gundam Ver. 2.0, the Zaku II’s build feels dated. Its frame lacks the refinement and articulation improvements seen in newer models, leading many fans to hope for a remastered version.

Consumer Feedback

Upon release, the RG Zaku II was praised for its sharp detailing, impressive articulation, and accurate recreation of Char’s iconic mobile suit. Builders appreciated how the kit brought the red Zaku to life at 1/144 scale with RG-level precision. However, as Real Grade engineering has evolved, the Zaku II now shows its age—particularly in terms of joint technology and ease of assembly. Today, many fans express a growing interest in seeing a modernized version that incorporates contemporary RG standards while preserving the design’s classic appeal.

Conclusion

The RG MS-06S Zaku II was a groundbreaking model that helped define the Real Grade line when it debuted. Although surpassed by newer kits in terms of engineering and stability, it remains a cornerstone of Gunpla history. Its legacy as Char Aznable’s mobile suit, combined with its early role in the evolution of RG design, secures its place as a must-have for collectors and long-time fans. A remastered release may be on the horizon, but until then, the original RG Zaku II continues to stand as a nostalgic and respected piece in the Gunpla world.

So, my final rating for RG Zaku II is 4.0/5.