Detailed figure of Gundam Barbatos Lupus with its sword, highlighting its white, red, and blue colors.
The upcoming release of a new collectible figure in the METAL ROBOT魂 line from Bandai Spirits has been announced: the METAL ROBOT魂 ＜SIDE MS＞ ガンダムバルバトスルプス -STORE LIMITED EDITION-. This collectible is based on the acclaimed animated series 『機動戦士ガンダム 鉄血のオルフェンズ』 (Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans) and represents the iconic Mobile Suit piloted by Mikazuki Augus. Its commercialization is planned for July 2025 and it is characterized as a limited edition, whose acquisition will be exclusive through the TAMASHII NATIONS STORE. A notable feature of this edition is the inclusion of a dedicated display base with a completely new design, ideal for Gundam collectors.
The figure is a creation of Bandai Spirits, through its prestigious Tamashii Nations division, and is integrated into the METAL ROBOT魂 ＜SIDE MS＞ series. This line is distinguished by fusing the solidity and weight provided by die-cast metal components (inherited from the renowned CHOGOKIN brand) with the advanced articulation and sculpting fidelity characteristic of THE ROBOT SPIRITS. The meticulous modeling process of this Gundam action figure has been supervised by Naohiro Washio, who was the original mechanical designer of the Gundam Barbatos Lupus, seeking a faithful translation of the animated series' image into a high-quality three-dimensional figure.
The METAL ROBOT魂 figure is expected to use materials such as ABS, PVC, and die-cast. The latter will be predominantly used in its internal structure, known as the Gundam Frame, with the aim of providing durability and a noticeable sense of weight, characteristics highly valued by action figure collectors. It is expected to have a high degree of articulation, which will allow recreating a wide variety of dynamic poses, emulating combat scenes from Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans. Although the official price has not been communicated and is listed as "Price to be announced," it is estimated to be in the higher segment of the line, given its premium features and its status as a limited production item.
METAL ROBOT魂 action figure of Gundam Barbatos Lupus standing, showcasing its robust design and white, red, blue, and gold details.
ASW-G-08 Gundam Barbatos Lupus
The ASW-G-08 Gundam Barbatos Lupus is an evolved and significantly optimized version of the original Gundam Barbatos, introduced in the second season of Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans. The extensive modifications were carried out by Teiwaz engineers at their Saisei facilities, using combat data accumulated by its pilot, Mikazuki Augus. This comprehensive overhaul was necessary due to the severe structural damage the Barbatos had sustained, which exceeded the repair capabilities of the Tekkadan organization. The designation "Lupus," Latin for "wolf," aims to reflect its more agile and predatory nature, a key aspect for Gundam lore enthusiasts.
The redesign focused on substantially improving the Mobile Suit's reaction speed and overall mobility, adapting to Mikazuki's instinctive and direct combat style. Its armor, though designed to be lightweight, features multiple curved surfaces to deflect and minimize projectile impact damage, a fundamental aspect for the close-range engagement tactics preferred by its pilot. Adjustments were implemented to achieve a closer synchronization between the Mobile Suit's behavior and the pilot's senses through the Alaya-Vijnana system. This increase in performance is directly related to Mikazuki's progressive physical deterioration, stemming from his reliance on this system. This form of the Barbatos represents an intermediate stage in its evolution, following the initial configurations and preceding the Gundam Barbatos Lupus Rex, an even more extreme variant.
The METAL ROBOT魂 Gundam Barbatos Lupus figure viewed from behind, revealing the intricate design of its backpack and mechanical parts.
Its main armament featured in the series includes the Sword Mace, a weapon developed by Teiwaz aiming for a balance between destructive capability and a weight that would not compromise agility, and the Arm 200mm Cannons, artillery units mounted on the forearms that feature a sliding rail system to mitigate recoil. These details make the Gundam figure a faithful replica for enthusiasts.
The METAL ROBOT魂 Gundam Barbatos Lupus figure in a dynamic pose, as if about to launch an attack, showcasing its robust design and intricate details.
The METAL ROBOT魂 Gundam Barbatos Lupus figure holds a massive sword over its shoulder, highlighting its imposing presence and articulation.
The METAL ROBOT魂 Gundam Barbatos Lupus figure in a dynamic attack pose, wielding its sword and demonstrating its agility.
The METAL ROBOT魂 Gundam Barbatos Lupus figure in an aerial pose, using its firearms and rear armament.
The METAL ROBOT魂 Gundam Barbatos Lupus figure along with all its accessories: sword, various interchangeable hands, effect supports, and its black display base.
Sources
- METAL ROBOT魂 ＜SIDE MS＞ ガンダムバルバトスルプス -STORE LIMITED EDITION- | HOBBY DENGEKI. Accessed June 2, 2025. URL: https://hobby.dengeki.com/news/2612521/
- METAL ROBOT魂（メタルロボット魂）の商品一覧 | TAMASHII WEB. Accessed June 2, 2025. URL: https://tamashiiweb.com/item/item-1000228463/
- ガンダム・バルバトスルプス｜Mobile Suit-モビルスーツ-｜機動戦士ガンダム 鉄血のオルフェンズ. Accessed June 2, 2025. URL: https://g-tekketsu.com/2nd/ms/01.php
- METAL ROBOT魂 ガンダムバルバトスルプス スペシャルページ | 魂ウェブ. Accessed June 2, 2025. URL: https://tamashii.jp/special/metal_robot/barbatos_lupus/
- List of Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans characters | Wikipedia. Accessed June 2, 2025. URL: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_Mobile_Suit_Gundam:_Iron-Blooded_Orphans_characters