New Project: X Divider Ground Assault Type

Of the strange gimmicks in Gundam, X Divider has always fascinated me with it's beam harmonica, but I've never been motivated enough to acquire this design. I like the overall 'look' of  this Gundam, the silhouette is balanced and pleasing, the beam saber handles are heavy duty, and the shield/beam harmonica/flight unit is pretty awesome feature. But the machine gun isn't very thrilling, and the side stabilizers that complete the "X" motif, don't do anything-- they aren't cannons, or propellant tanks-- they are just kibble.

It wasn't until I found this image that I was inspired--- and motivated--- to build the X Divider!

Gundam Masters Card Game

I found a series of variations in the Gundam Master card game, like a Wing Zero Marine type (that converts to a submarine), Gundam Leopard w/air combat equipment, and other cool variations--and color schemes to match. Unfortunately, I've only found these in card form and it doesn't seem any models have been based off of these...yet.

I have 4 weeks until Sakura Con, where I'll be hosting a Gunpla Builders workshop 'panel', and we'll also have display space for an exhibition. I have a few models that need to be painted, and my goal is to finish this in time. I just received my HGAW X Divider tonight, and will do he straight build tomorrow--giving me the rest of the week to design the modifications.

I'm challenging myself in keeping most of the original design intact, but only modifying key areas: shoulders, machine bazooka, and backpack. I don't have time to be overly ambitious, so I'll have to stay focused and not fall into that "customization vacuum". Instead, adding details to make this more industrial looking and changing the color scheme (like the above image) will make all of the difference, and complete the look I'm going for. That's the goal at least-- we'll see what happens.

More updates to come!