HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla Build: Review & Guide

Hey guys! Today, I'm super stoked to share my experience building the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla. This kit is not just your average Gunpla; it's a special edition made from recycled materials, giving it a unique and eco-friendly twist. Plus, the neon blue color is absolutely eye-catching! I'll walk you through the entire process, from unboxing to the final completed model, and share my thoughts on the build, the aesthetics, and everything in between. Whether you're a seasoned Gunpla builder or just starting out, I hope this article inspires you to try something new and maybe even consider an Ecopla kit for your next project.

Unboxing the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla

Alright, let's dive right into the unboxing! The first thing that struck me was the box itself. Unlike the usual vibrant and glossy Gunpla boxes, the Ecopla box has a more subdued, matte finish, hinting at its eco-conscious nature. Opening it up, you're greeted with runners molded in this stunning neon blue plastic. It's seriously vibrant and unlike any other Gundam I've built before. The plastic has a slightly different texture compared to regular kits, a bit more matte, which I think adds to its unique appeal. You'll also find the instruction manual, which is pretty standard, and a sheet of stickers for detailing. Now, let's talk about the runners themselves. Being an Ecopla, the plastic is made from recycled materials, but don't let that fool you – the quality is still top-notch. The parts are crisply molded with minimal flash, and the undergating is well-done, making for a clean building experience. The neon blue color really pops, and I was already envisioning how awesome this Gundam Aerial would look once assembled. One thing I always appreciate about Bandai is their attention to detail, even in these special edition kits. The parts are well-organized on the runners, making it easy to find what you need, and the instructions are clear and easy to follow, even for beginners. There's a certain satisfaction in seeing all the pieces laid out, ready to be transformed into the iconic Gundam Aerial. Unboxing a new Gunpla kit is always an exciting experience, but this one felt extra special because of its unique color and eco-friendly nature. It's a fantastic way to enjoy the hobby while also being mindful of the environment. The unboxing experience truly sets the stage for the build process, and I couldn't wait to get started on putting this neon blue beauty together.

The Build Process: A Step-by-Step Guide

Now, let's get to the fun part – the build process! I always start by carefully clipping the parts from the runners. Using a good pair of nippers is crucial for a clean cut, and I highly recommend investing in a quality pair if you're serious about Gunpla building. I prefer to use two sets of nippers: one for the initial cut from the runner and another for trimming any remaining nubs. This helps to prevent stress marks on the plastic and ensures a smoother finish. The plastic on the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla felt slightly different compared to standard kits. It had a bit more give, which made it easier to work with but also required a bit more care to avoid over-trimming. Assembling the head unit was the first step, and it's always a satisfying moment when the Gundam's face starts to take shape. The details on the Aerial's head are particularly striking, and the neon blue color really accentuates the design. The clear parts for the eyes and sensors add a nice touch, giving the Gundam a fierce and determined look. Moving on to the torso, the build becomes a bit more complex, with multiple parts coming together to form the core of the Gundam. The internal frame provides a solid structure, and the outer armor panels attach securely, creating a cohesive and well-articulated body. The color separation on this kit is excellent, with different shades of blue and grey used to highlight the various details. The arms and legs were next, and these are where the articulation really shines. The HG Gundam Aerial has a wide range of motion, allowing for dynamic poses and action shots. The joints are sturdy and hold their position well, which is essential for displaying the finished model. I particularly enjoyed assembling the beam rifle and shield, which are iconic weapons in the Gundam universe. The beam rifle has a sleek and futuristic design, and the shield is nicely detailed with panel lines and vents. Attaching these accessories to the Gundam Aerial really completes the look and gives it a sense of presence. Throughout the build process, I was impressed with the overall quality of the kit. The parts fit together snugly, and there were no major issues with gaps or misalignments. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, even for the more intricate sections. Building Gunpla is not just about assembling plastic; it's a therapeutic and rewarding experience. Taking the time to carefully clip, trim, and assemble each part is a form of meditation for me, and the satisfaction of seeing the finished model is unmatched.

Detailing and Panel Lining for Enhanced Aesthetics

Once the basic build was complete, it was time to add some extra details to really make the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla pop. Detailing and panel lining are essential techniques for Gunpla builders who want to take their models to the next level. Panel lining involves using a fine-tipped marker or wash to accentuate the engraved lines on the plastic, adding depth and definition to the surface. I prefer to use a Gundam Marker for panel lining, as it flows smoothly and is easy to clean up with an eraser. The neon blue plastic of the Ecopla kit provides a unique canvas for panel lining. I opted for a black marker to create a strong contrast, which really makes the details stand out. The process is simple: carefully trace the panel lines with the marker, and then use a cotton swab or eraser to wipe away any excess ink. It's a bit time-consuming, but the results are well worth the effort. The panel lines add a sense of realism and make the model look more complex and intricate. In addition to panel lining, I also applied some of the included stickers to add extra details. The stickers are well-designed and fit snugly into the recessed areas on the model. They add pops of color and visual interest, particularly on the shoulders and shield. I also considered adding some custom decals, but I wanted to keep the overall look clean and simple. Sometimes, less is more, and the neon blue color is already so striking that I didn't want to overdo it with too many embellishments. Another detailing technique that I often use is applying a topcoat. A topcoat is a clear spray that seals the plastic and protects the paint and decals. It also gives the model a more uniform finish, either matte or glossy, depending on the type of topcoat used. For this kit, I decided to go with a matte topcoat to complement the matte texture of the Ecopla plastic. The matte finish reduces the shine and gives the model a more realistic appearance. Applying a topcoat is a bit more involved than panel lining or applying stickers, as it requires proper ventilation and safety precautions. However, the results are undeniable. A topcoat can transform a model from looking like a plastic toy to a high-quality collectible. Detailing is where you can really personalize your Gunpla and make it your own. It's a chance to showcase your creativity and attention to detail. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced builder, I highly recommend experimenting with different detailing techniques to see what works best for you. The HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla is a fantastic kit for practicing these techniques, as the unique color and design provide a great canvas for customization.

Posing and Displaying the Neon Blue Gundam Aerial

Now that the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla is fully assembled and detailed, it's time for the most exciting part – posing and displaying! This is where you can really bring your Gundam to life and showcase its dynamic design and articulation. The HG Gundam Aerial has a wide range of motion, thanks to its well-engineered joints. The arms can rotate 360 degrees, the legs can bend at the knees and hips, and the torso can twist and lean, allowing for a variety of poses. I started by experimenting with some classic action poses, such as holding the beam rifle and shield in various stances. The Gundam Aerial looks incredibly imposing with its weapons drawn, ready for battle. The neon blue color adds an extra layer of intensity to the poses, making them even more striking. I also tried some more dynamic poses, such as jumping and flying, using an action base to elevate the model. The action base is a must-have accessory for Gunpla builders, as it allows you to display your models in mid-air poses, adding a sense of dynamism and excitement. The Gundam Aerial looks particularly impressive in a flying pose, with its thrusters blazing and its weapons at the ready. When posing your Gunpla, it's important to consider the balance and stability of the model. The HG Gundam Aerial is relatively lightweight, but it can still be tricky to achieve certain poses without the model toppling over. Experiment with different stances and adjust the joints until you find a pose that looks good and is stable. Displaying your Gunpla is just as important as building it. A well-displayed model can become a centerpiece of your collection, showcasing your hard work and passion for the hobby. There are many ways to display Gunpla, from simple shelves and display cases to elaborate dioramas and battle scenes. I prefer to use a combination of shelves and display cases to protect my models from dust and damage. The HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla looks fantastic on a shelf, surrounded by other Gunpla kits. The neon blue color really stands out against the other models, making it a focal point of the display. I also like to use display cases to showcase my favorite models in a more prominent way. A display case with built-in lighting can really enhance the look of your Gunpla, highlighting the details and colors. Posing and displaying Gunpla is a creative and rewarding process. It's a chance to express your personality and showcase your love for the hobby. Whether you prefer dynamic action poses or more static displays, the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla is a fantastic model for experimenting with different posing and display techniques. The unique color and design make it a standout piece in any collection, and the articulation allows for a wide range of poses.

Final Thoughts: Is the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla Worth It?

So, the big question: is the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla worth it? In my opinion, absolutely! This kit is not just a fantastic build; it's also a unique and eco-conscious addition to any Gunpla collection. The neon blue color is the obvious standout feature, and it looks even more impressive in person than it does in photos. The plastic has a slightly different texture compared to standard kits, which I find adds to its appeal. The build process itself was enjoyable and straightforward, with no major issues or frustrations. The parts fit together snugly, and the instructions were clear and easy to follow. The articulation is excellent, allowing for a wide range of poses, and the finished model looks fantastic on display. But what truly sets this kit apart is its eco-friendly nature. The fact that it's made from recycled materials makes it a more sustainable and responsible choice for Gunpla enthusiasts. It's great to see Bandai taking steps to reduce their environmental impact, and I hope to see more Ecopla kits in the future. The HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla is not just a fun build; it's also a conversation starter. It's a way to show your passion for Gunpla while also being mindful of the environment. It's a perfect example of how you can enjoy your hobbies and make a positive impact at the same time. Of course, the unique color and eco-friendly nature come with a slightly higher price tag compared to standard HG kits. However, I believe the extra cost is justified by the quality and uniqueness of the kit. If you're looking for a Gunpla that stands out from the crowd and makes a statement, the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla is an excellent choice. Whether you're a seasoned builder or just starting out, this kit offers a rewarding and enjoyable experience. The vibrant color, the eco-friendly materials, and the excellent articulation make it a must-have for any Gunpla enthusiast. In conclusion, I highly recommend the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla. It's a fantastic kit that combines fun, aesthetics, and sustainability. It's a testament to Bandai's commitment to quality and innovation, and it's a model that I'm proud to have in my collection. If you're on the fence about buying this kit, I say go for it – you won't be disappointed!

Where to Buy Your Own HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla

Alright, guys, so you're convinced and ready to grab your own HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla? Awesome! Now, let's talk about where you can find this awesome kit. Since it's a special edition Ecopla, it might not be as readily available as your standard Gunpla kits, but don't worry, I've got you covered with some tips and recommendations. One of the best places to start your search is online retailers specializing in Gunpla and model kits. Websites like Amazon, eBay, USA Gundam Store, and Gundam Planet are great options. They often have a wide selection of Gunpla, including special edition kits like the Neon Blue Aerial Ecopla. When shopping online, it's always a good idea to compare prices and check for shipping costs. Some retailers may offer free shipping on orders over a certain amount, so it's worth looking into those deals. Also, be sure to check the seller's reviews and ratings to ensure they're reputable and reliable. Another option is to check your local hobby shops. Many hobby shops carry a selection of Gunpla, and they might have the HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla in stock. Supporting your local hobby shop is a great way to support the Gunpla community, and you might even find some other cool kits or accessories while you're there. Plus, you get the added bonus of seeing the kit in person before you buy it. If you're having trouble finding the kit in stock, you can also try checking online Gunpla communities and forums. These communities often have buy-sell-trade sections where members can list kits they're selling. This can be a great way to find rare or out-of-stock kits, but be sure to exercise caution and only deal with reputable sellers. Be mindful of payment methods and shipping arrangements to ensure a smooth transaction. Finally, keep an eye out for restocks. Special edition Gunpla kits often sell out quickly, but retailers may restock them periodically. Sign up for email newsletters or follow your favorite retailers on social media to stay informed about restock announcements. Patience is key when hunting for a specific Gunpla kit, but the reward of finally finding it is well worth the effort. So, there you have it – some tips on where to buy your own HG Neon Blue Gundam Aerial Ecopla. Happy hunting, and happy building, guys! I can't wait to see what awesome poses and displays you come up with for your neon blue beauty.