For S.H. Figuarts collectors, there are few stories more infamous than that of Master Asia . The figure was originally revealed by Bandai Tamashii Nations all the way back in 2008, alongside fellow Mobile Suit G Gundam star Domon Kasshu . But while Domon got his release, Master Asia went on to arguably become the poster child of Bandai's "will they/won't they release it" tactics, appearing in magazine scans and multiple shows since with never any indication of an actual release. But when 2014 rolled around and Tamashii Nations started hitting up G Gundam for their Robot Damashii line the unthinkable happened - Master Asia got a release date. No longer the "Unreleased of the East" , Master Asia was confirmed for January 2015 and as a mass release figure no less. So before we even begin the review there's a moral here - if Master Asia can get released after nearly seven years, then there's hope for every Figuart. Truly the Undefeated of the E...

If you're familiar with the S.H. Figuarts  toy line, you'll more than likely know of the plight of Mobile Fighter G Gundam - and more specifically, Master Asia. S.H. Figuarts Master Asia was first seen at a Tamashii Nations event way back in 2009, and still hasn't been released. Since then, Rain Mikamura and Alleby Beardsley also joined Master Asia in the "Figuarts that may never be released club". So if you're a G Gundam  fan, things pretty much suck for you. However there is a slight silver lining - the most important G Gundam figure got a (mass) release even if it is destined to spend the rest of its life alone. Domon Kasshu was the eighth figure to be released in the line, practically making it Figuarts royalty. With G Gundam having just rocked my world, it was a matter of time before I scoured the aftermarket to get my hands on one (note: I bought him when I was about 15 episodes into G Gundam... the need was that strong).

I'll be honest - despite proclaiming myself as a big anime/mecha fan my knowledge of the Mobile Suit Gundam franchise is minimal. I watched Gundam Wing  a fair few years ago, but I've mostly remained uninterested until Gundam Build Fighters  came into my life late last year and changed everything (but more on that in a future review). So after much pestering, I was persuaded to give Mobile Fighter G Gundam a try - a standalone series that I'd heard a lot of good things about despite not being all that talked about. I was interested to say the least.