Driving Blind

 Between work and gaming and reading, I've squeezed in time to dig up some blind-box toys from the back burner, including a recent pickup.  So without further ado . . .

Gundam QMSV Mini: Gold Team

Starting with the recent pickup, this my second figure from Bandai Namco's Gundam QMSV blind figure line.  Finding 2 different collections at the specialty shop Digigo, they're also the most expensive blind toys I've found at just over $27 a pop.

With 6 figs to collect, plus 2 rarities, it was clear which one I wanted.

But this one's fine too.

You'd think I've 'struck gold' with the Hyaku Shiki.  Taking a closer look, however, I've found a few things not par for the course.

Understanding that this is a mass-produced joint with about 5 points of articulation, the gold plating doesn't hide the glaring seam lines throughout the figure.  Furthermore, the included beam rifle just hangs loose on the hand, and even the clear lenses on the head camera's misaligned.

On top of that, both binders on Hyaku Shiki's back don't properly fit in the backpack either.  I guess I could trim the pegs or whatever, but why should I have to?

Here's a side-by-side comparison with my first QMSV, a promotional joint exclusive to China's McDonald's app.  I got it for about the same price from an obscure online store.  But after reviewing Hyaku Shiki, I no longer question the authenticity of this figure.

ZURU 5 Surprise: Monster Truck--Color Change

A much cheaper option and more readily available, I've bought this one on a whim from my local supermarket.  Literally months later, I finally checked it out to see how it holds up to a Rocket League capsule, which had a pull-back car and a download code for DLC.

After ripping off the seals, the plastic ball splits in half, and then in thirds . . .

To reveal an unbuilt monster truck with rubber wheels, bumpers, instructions and a spring-loaded rocket launcher.  With 7 trucks to collect, I got the rare final one.

Actually, I wanted to see if the truck could still change color with water as advertised.  Letting just the truck body soak in lukewarm water with ice cubes, nothing happened.  Dipping it in a container left in the fridge to collect leaking water . . .

Yep, this mofo works.

Upon further review ZURU 5's Monster Trucks are a fun little diversion that grabs your attention for a least a few minutes.

LEGO City: Hot Rod (60485)

For a change of pace (and cuz I didn't want to dig up more blind toys from piles of boxes), I decided to build one of several LEGO sets I've bought from Walgreens for a rainy day.  With clear skies and slightly chilly temperatures, I've settled on LEGO City's Hot Rod set.  Besides LEGO's blind minifigures, I've really gotten into building their cars as well.

Holding all the parts in multiple polybags (except the rear tires; those come loose in the box), I threw them all in a container usually reserved for my breakfast cereal.  But LEGO bricks do a number on my teeth.

After building the Luke Perry figure (left), I worked on the car itself; bit by bit, brick by brick.

Here Luke Perry lights up to show appreciation for a job well done.  I like how the hood flips open to stick the figure in.

Once the hood closes over the windshield, though, it narrows our view of the driver.  Can't imagine he can see too good either.

I just wish the set included more of those tiny flame bits to add to the car's exposed engine.

Finally, here's the Hot Rod side by side with LEGO's Sports Car (60448).  If anyone wants my first impressions on that toy, let me know.

And that concludes this toy blog.  I have more in the works as I open more of stuff, so sit tight.  As always I hope you'll join me next time as I cruise my way to the Top of the Heap.  So long, everybody.