A Review of Strike Rouge, my First Master Grade

I’ve been in love with Gundam modeling since I build my first hot pink SD model in 2010. Since then I’ve built a whole lot of High Grade models, but I’ve never had the courage to take on a Master Grade that wasn’t a team project with John.

When I saw MG Strike Rouge at Katsucon early this year, however, I knew it was time to level up. John and I had recently done a rewatch of Gundam Seed and I fell in love with the suit. My first SD and HG Gunpla builds were both pink. Now, my first MG would be, too.

Here’s my review of this build and how my experience went:

• Overall, this took me about five nights total, and I’d guess seven hours. I am not a fast builder! I estimate I took more time than the average builder would need. I definitely was nervous since it was my first solo Master Grade project.

• I used my Tamiya Basic Tool Set, my hobby mat, and no other materials. I did not panel line this model. I just built it straight out of the box. The majority of my time went into filing down nubs with my X-Acto knife. Looking at these macro shots, I didn’t spend enough time doing that! I also got a few cuts, oops.

• I did have to use my trusty super glue for one piece. I noticed I put one of the Ootori’s wings on backwards, and tried to take the missiles off, ironically, to keep from breaking them while i flipped it. That’s how I broke it! Read more about how I repair Gunpla.

• There were a LOT of stickers on the Ootori, and they all had to be lined up very carefully. Eventually I gave up using my tweezers and just applied them with my hands (not recommended since fingers are oily!) out of frustration.

• With the Ootori and sword on her back, Strike Rouge is very top heavy and can’t stand up by herself without a really wide stance I’m pleased this model came with a stand so I could give her a cool pose instead of a wobbly one.

This was a fun first Master Grade that really showed me what makes an MG Gunpla so special—increased articulation, cooler accessories, and parts that fit precisely. I’m already making plans to build another one soon (I’m thinking a Version Ka since they’re oh so flashy), and this time I won’t shy away from panel lining!