Examining the Hi-Metal R VF-4: A Review Evokes Memories of 'Macross'
Examining the Hi-Metal R VF-4: A Review Evokes Memories of 'Macross'
One of the lesser-known mechas from the Macross series has been given the Hi-Metal R makeover, and it's impressively well-executed.
To clarify, this is a re-release of a Hi-Metal R toy from 2019, but with some extra features this time around.
We're talking about the VF-4 Lightning III variable fighter from the Macross Flashback 2012 anime. Its intriguing nature isn't just due to its appearance in the gaming world, which we'll delve into later.
The initial encounter with the VF-4 was as a prototype for the VF-X-4 from the Macross TV series. It then appeared in a functional capacity in Flashback 2012, yet we only ever saw it in fighter form in both instances.
In the narrative, the VF-4 was supposed to be the new generation of variable fighters following the VF-1 Valkyrie, so it makes sense that we'd see prototypes of it in the anime and then later in actual use.
However, it wasn't until the 1997 PlayStation game Macross Digital Mission VF-X that we saw the transformation of the VF-4. Despite the game being poor and largely unplayable, it was evidently part of a broader plan as far as the VF-4 was concerned.
This was because the enemy mecha in Macross 7 were configured similarly to the VF-4. We later discovered that these enemy mecha were, in turn, based on the VF-14 Vampire, which was a continuation of the VF-4 line.
It was apparent that the heavy lifting for the transformational process had been accomplished before the VF-4's gaming debut, but it was still intriguing to witness how the design of such an obscure variable fighter would exert such far-reaching impacts.
As for this toy, it's a part of the Hi-Metal R line. While Hi-Metal R usually results in oversized, hefty toys packed with diecast parts, with mechas from the Macross series, they tend to be smaller.
The size reduction hasn't affected the toy's transformation or quality, though. Diecast parts are still present for the joints and articulation, allowing for a sturdy transformation without the need for swapping parts.
The sculpt and detailing are also quite impressive. Despite being a smaller toy, it remains highly accurate to the anime and game designs.
The 2019 release includes a new themed stand, new box art, and a Minmay diorama background from Flashback 2012. You still get the additional GU-11 gun pod, which is nice, but the base toy itself remains mostly unchanged.
This toy remains a high-quality item, with excellent articulation. Displaying it in fighter mode on the stand is especially pleasing, as I also did with the previous 2019 release.
Comparatively, this Hi-Metal R toy is much smaller than the large 1/60 scale version from Arcadia from several years ago. The upside is that this Hi-Metal R toy is significantly cheaper, priced around $130 compared to Arcadia's original price of approximately $359. Finding the Arcadia version at that price online is rare, though.
Considering the historical background of the original design and the fact that it was once scarce, both in the Macross series and in terms of model kits and toys, I'm glad to see this Hi-Metal R toy receive a new chance and at a reasonable price point.
Overall, this is an excellent depiction of the VF-4 Lightning III and retains all the transforming features of its larger counterparts, at a fraction of the cost. Here's hoping more of the older and scarce designs in the Macross library receive similar treatment in the future.
The Hi-Metal R VF-4 Lightning III toy is available for purchase from retailers such as Amazon for around $130.
*Hi-Metal R VF-4 Gallery*
Manufacturer: Bandai Spirits
Release Date: October 2024
Price: $130
Disclosure: Awaken Studio sent me this toy for the purposes of this review.
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This re-release of the Hi-Metal R toy, first released in 2019, features the VF-4 Lightning III, a lesser-known mecha from the Macross Flashback 2012 anime. Its transformation and quality remain impressive despite the size reduction, with diecast parts for joints and articulation. The toy also includes additional features such as a new stand, box art, and a Minmay diorama background from Flashback 2012. This VF-4 Lightning III toy is a high-quality item, available for purchase on Amazon for around $130.
The VF-4 Lightning III was initially introduced in Macross as a prototype for the VF-X-4, but later appeared in a functional capacity in Flashback 2012. Despite its limited appearance, its design had far-reaching impacts, influencing the design of enemy mecha in Macross 7 and eventual development of the VF-14 Vampire.
This Hi-Metal R toy is smaller compared to the large 1/60 scale version from Arcadia, but it is significantly cheaper. Considering the historical background of the original design and its scarcity in the Macross series and model kits, it's great to see the VF-4 Lightning III receiving a new chance at a reasonable price point.
The transformation of the VF-4 Lightning III was first showcased in the 1997 PlayStation game Macross Digital Mission VF-X. Despite the game's poor performance and unplayability, it was clearly part of a broader plan for the VF-4.
This toy's excellent articulation and attention to detail make it a must-have for any Macross fan, offering an accurate and affordable representation of the VF-4 Lightning III's appearance in the Macross series and video games.