Gundam Models

Gundam Models refers to plastic and non-plastic model kits depicting the mechas, vehicles and characters of the fictional Mobile Suit Gundam universe by Bandai. These kits have become popular among anime fans and model enthusiasts, especially in Japan and in other nearby Asian countries since the 1980s. The popularity of Gundam models increased in the 1990s with North America and Europe being exposed to Gundam through television, video and manga. These Gundam Models are also called Gunpla (Gundam plastic model). "Gunpla" more commonly refers to the practice of building Gundam models, rather than the models themselves.

Plastic Gundam model kits are manufactured in Japan or China by Bandai, which has an exclusive license in manufacturing and marketing them around the world. The models are typical of Plastic models; sprues of injection-molded Polystyrene (PS) parts which must be cut out before assembly. The majority of post-1990 models have snap-fit parts, with models prior to that requiring an adhesive such as plastic cement. Plastic Gundam models kits are typically supplied with stickers and sometimes waterslide decals to apply extra colors and markings as seen in popular media such as TV shows, movies, manga or video games. Smaller or lower-grade kits often require paint to give the model a finished appearance, due to color discrepancies.

The kits range in different scales with the most popular scales being: 1/550, 1/220, 1/144, 1/100 and 1/60, and more recently the 1/48 Mega Size Model and 1/35 (UC HardGraph) lines. Generally in real world terms, kits range from 4~5 inches for small-scale models, 6 to 8 inches for mid-scale models, and 12 inches for big-scale models, although these sizes vary from model to model. With a few exceptions, all currently produced kits bear grade ratings that give a good idea about their final quality. The following lists the most well-known and common categories with humanoid designs in their order of quality, from lowest to highest.

Timeline

1970s–1980s

Mobile Suit Gundam debuted in 1979 and the first Gunpla kits came in 1980, following the show's cancellation. Nearly every mecha in the series was made into a model kit, from mobile suits to support aircraft and space battleships. Parts came in up to three different colored sprues. These kits lacked articulation and detail, and required glue and paint to build and finish.

Following the completion of the TV series line, Bandai introduced the MSV (Mobile Suit Variation) line, featuring alternate variants of the series' mobile suits. One of the highlights of the line was the RX-78 Perfect Gundam, which introduced System Injection (a process where one sprue - sometimes even one part - was molded in multiple colors), which minimized the need to paint the model.

1980s–1990s

Following a line of kits from the Round Vernian Vifam series, the 1985 Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam kit line incorporated the use of polycaps as connectors for better articulation of joints. The 1987 Gundam Sentinel model line introduced the concept of snap-fit models, reducing the need to use glue. And starting from the 1988 Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack line, all Gunpla kits feature snap-fit assembly.

In 1990, Bandai introduced the High Grade (HG) line, which featured newer 1/144 scale versions the RX-78-2 Gundam, the RX-178 Gundam Mk. II, the MSZ-006 Zeta Gundam and the MSZ-010 ZZ Gundam. Each kit boasted exceptional detail and articulation, as well as features normally found in their larger-scale versions such as the Gundam's Core Block System and the Zeta's transformation feature.

Beginning with Mobile Suit Victory Gundam in 1993, a unified set of polycap joints was created for smaller scale models that allowed easy mass production of models that all shared the same basic skeletal frame. This standardization allowed Bandai to release more models over a shorter period. As a result, the Gundam shows of the 1990s usually received sizable 1/144 model lines. These were all of similar quality, with some attention to colors molded in the right area, a reasonable level of detail for their price point, and mobility as such that all major joints had at least some degree of mobility.

In 1995, the 1/100 Master Grade (MG) line was introduced. This line features more parts, better detail and improved articulation than past kits of the same scale. As of 2011, the MG line features the most sophisticated 1/100 Gundam model kits produced by Bandai.

Following the release of the Perfect Grade Evangelion, Bandai introduced the 1/60 Perfect Grade (PG) line to the Gundam series in 1998. This line features extensive detail and articulation, as well as working skeletal systems and light-up features. The PG line is the most expensive among all Gunpla kits, and only a select few mobile suits have been released in this line.

To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the franchise in 1999, Bandai released 1/144 First Grade (FG) kits of mobile suits from the original series. Marketed as budget models, these snap-fit kits featured the simplicity of the original kits, but with more modern designs based upon the corresponding Perfect Grade kits.

2000s

Mobile Suit Gundam SEED introduced a new type of a non-graded (NG) 1/144 model, with a completely different design plan. While these still feature snap-fit and color molding, they omit major joints, opting instead to only allow critical pieces to move - typically the neck, hips, shoulders, and feet. These are budget models, usually retailing much lower than other models; and this line was extensive, covering nearly every machine to be featured in the TV series. Gundam SEED also featured non graded 1/100 models, identical in quality to Bandai's High Grade offerings.

2010s

In 2010, Bandai released the 1/48 Mega Size Model RX-78-2 Gundam kit as part of the franchise's 30th anniversary campaign. This kit features many innovations that make it easy to assemble for first-time Gunpla collectors. For example, the parts are attached to sprue gates thin enough to break without the need to use of plastic cutters, and excess gate plastic can be removed from the parts without using a hobby knife. Some sprues have been designed to snap together for easy and quick removal of assembled parts. Also in the same year, Bandai introduced the 1/144 Real Grade (RG) line, which takes design elements from the MG line such as an inner skeletal frame. Bandai also released Ecopla, a series of HGUC and SD kits molded in black and made entirely out of recycled sprues.

In 2011, Bandai released the Entry Grade (EG) line, a low-cost model series similar to the 1/144 NG and FG lines and is sold only in parts of Asia. Unlike other kits of the same scale, all EG kits are made in China. Back in Japan, Bandai introduced the Advanced Grade (AG) line for Mobile Suit Gundam AGE, a budget line that focuses more on the arrangement of colored parts; thus sacrificing more articulation than the previous budget lines. [Source: wiki]

Scales and Grades

The plastic Gundam models kits range in different scales with the most popular scales being: 1/144 (approx 13 cm tall), 1/100 (approx 16-19cm tall) and 1/60 (approx 30 cm tall). Grades of gundam scale models: High Grade (HG), Master Grade (MG), Perfect Grade (PG), High Grade Universal Century (HGUC), Real Grade (RG) and Super-Deformed (SD).

High Grade (HG)

High Grade (HG) are Gunpla in smaller scales like 1/144 (Gundam Wing's 1/100 were the same). The moulding was improved and HG (High Grade) level kits were introduced in 1990. These kits at either 1/144 or 1/100 scale, provide for better range of motion and greater poseability. It is important to note that the SEED and SEED DESTINY 1/100 scale models do not have HG listed anywhere on the box or manual, but they are considered HG in terms of quality.

Master Grade (MG)

The next level are designated MG (Master Grade) and are only offered in 1/100 scale. These kits are manufactured using higher quality plastic and the resulting molds are of a greater standard. However, the model is more expensive, complicated and takes longer to construct. The finished models offer a superior range of motion compared to the lower level kits to provide for an even wider range of poses. Some of them actually include specially designed stands for added display ability. Master Grade kits are very presentable assembled straight from the box, but adding paint and detailing can greatly improve the appearance of the finished model.

Perfect Grade (PG)

The Perfect Grade is a series of Gundam plastic model kits, or Gunpla, created by Bandai. The PG line originated with the release of the Perfect Grade Evangelion EVA-01. The scale was later transferred to the Gundam franchise in 1998. The PG line has significant external and internal details, and recent ones have featured light up gimmicks with LEDs. The PGs are some of the most expensive Gunpla produced and have sometimes been used to develop Master Grade technology.

High Grade Universal Century (HGUC)

High Grade Universal Century or HGUC are plastic scale models kits, or Gunpla of the Mobile Suits from the Universal Century timeline in the Gundam meta series. First produced in 1999, they supplanted normal HG kits such as the HG RX-78-2. They are known for their ease of construction and generous use of polycaps and tinted plastic for details such as visual sensors, monoeyes and beam saber effect parts. The normal scale for these models is 1/144, but exceptions have been made for Mobile Armors. Starting in 2010 the HGUC line extended to the After War and Future Century timelines with the HGAW and HGFC lines respectively.

Real Grade (RG)

The Real Grade (RG) line of Gunpla is a new line released by Bandai and was introduced as part of the Gundam 30th Anniversary commemoration project. These consist of Mobile Suits from both the Universal Century and the Alternate Centuries. The RG line combines the best aspects of the other three Gunpla lines: The small size and affordable prices of the High Grade, the advanced inner frame technology of the Master Grade and the massive part count of the Perfect Grade. The RG line is known for the Advanced MS Joint where the inner frame of the suit is placed on a single gate for easy construction. Also, the RG line reflects what a mobile suit would look like if it were built in the present day. The tagline for the Real Grade line is "Excitement Embodied."

Super-Deformed (SD)

Not based on any particular scale, the Super-Deformed style features comically proportioned models, the most noticeable features of which are their very large heads. Also offered is an expanding line of small plastic kits labelled SD Gundam (Super-Deformed Gundam). These kits are often much easier to construct but offer very limited possibility and require paint and detailing to truly "finish" the kit. The most famous line is the BB Senshi. Depending on popularity of series, SD units may also be sold in separate product line.

Bandai also offers Real Detail model kits, which is exclusive to the Cosmic Era universe. While the scale is 1/60, they are basically scaled up HG kits with some added details. The level of details and possibility are not comparable to Master Grade and Perfect Grade kits, but some models feature gimmicks like light up LEDs and includes a stand. Bandai often produce limited run kits for special events. These kits are generally packaged differently from normal production kits, but usually differ only in that they are fabricated with metal plating or in translucent plastic.

1/144 scale

The very first kits have been running for 30 years (starting with RX-78-2 Gundam) and are routinely re-released by Bandai. As these kits are limited in articulation and require glue (for the early kits) and paint to assemble, these have retroactively been categorized as NG (No Grade), to differentiate them from FG (First Grade).

During the mid- to late-1980s, the quality of molding improved and HG (High Grade) level kits were introduced in 1990, starting from the titular mobile suits of the first four TV series. These limited-run kits featured full snap-fit assembly, an "internal frame" (for the first two kits, which provides better range of motion and were more poseable), and utilized the molding technique known as System Injection, wherein multiple colors would be cast on the same part.

In 2010, RG (Real Grade) surpassed HG as the top-end series of the 1/144 Gunpla line. These kits feature extensive detail and articulation, as well as a poseable skeletal frame comparable to the 1/100 Master Grade kits. The first RG kit was the 1/144 RX-78-2 Gundam, followed by the 1/144 MS-06S Char's Zaku II, GAT-X105 Aile Strike, MS-06F Zaku II (Green), ZGMF-X10A Freedom, and FX-550 Skygrasper [Launcher/Sword Pack]. Additional releases in this line are planned through 2011. During early 2012, the RG version of RX-178 Gundam Mk-II was released, available in both A.E.U.G and Titans colors. In July 2012 ZGMF-X09A Justice Gundam was released.

1/100 scale

Just like the 1/144 scale model kits, these kits started about the same time with the very first 1/144 model kits, again starting from RX-78-2 Gundam. "Generic" 1/100 kits may also be called "No-Grade" (NG 1/100) to differentiate from other specific 1/100 kits. Later kits (from Turn-A Gundam onwards) are clearly inspired from the post-HG 1/100 kits and features a similar or greater level of quality and detail.

Beginning with Victory Gundam in 1993, the HG line would shift to relatively well detailed larger scale kits in the 1/100 scale. There was little need for painting and detailing. These applied for the 1/100 scale models produced between 1993 and 1998, including Mobile Suit Victory Gundam, Mobile Fighter G Gundam, Mobile Suit Gundam Wing, After War Gundam X, and New Mobile Report: Gundam Wing Endless Waltz. Each TV series would receive on average between six to eight models in this scale and grade.

Master Grade (MG) models were first introduced in the summer of 1995, designed and made to higher standards than most other models. These kits take much longer to construct and are often much more expensive than their lower-grade counterparts. More recent Master Grade plastic models typically feature a movable inner frame system which enables extensive movement and bending of joints. The popularity of this line was so great that a lot of old and new kits from non-graded series were cast as Master Grade models.

Though the name of "Master Grade" is wide-known because of Gundam, but it is not Gundam exclusive as a few MG offerings are from are coming from mechas in Patlabor and Dunbine. Bandai also released a line featured a series of character figures under the name of MG Figurerise.

1/60 scale

Bandai released 1/60 scale versions of the main mecha of major TV series. These are Non-Grade or TV-Grade models, and are the main line of the 1/60 scale kits. Early 1/60 kits, like other scales, were simply larger versions of the smaller scales. In the early to mid 1990s, three High Grade EX models of V2 Gundam, Shining Gundam and God Gundam were released, featuring more details and gimmicks than their smaller counterparts. Bandai also created a much more detailed series of figures called Perfect Grade (PG). These kits come in standard 1/60 scale but are superbly detailed in terms of color and its inner frame, as well as normally possessing more points of articulation, such as hands that articulate at the knuckles. Perfect Grade kits were mainly used for developing new plastic model technologies, a function currently taken over by the Master Grade series, and typically need a few years to develop each kit.

1/48 scale

Bandai released the 1/48 Mega Size Model line in 2009 to commemorate the 30th anniversary of Mobile Suit Gundam. Available in four models - the RX-78-2 Gundam, the MS-06C Zaku II, the MS-06S Char's Zaku II, and the Gundam AGE-1 Normal, these kits are essentially larger versions of their 1/144 HGUC counterparts, but priced much lower than the 1/60 PG line. Once assembled, these models stand 37.5 cm tall (about 15 inches).

Bandai developed these kits with ease of build in mind as they require no tools to build. The individual pieces are attached to the runner by a very thin piece of plastic so that they can be broken off by hand. The assembly process can be sped up even more as the runners have been developed in a way so that you can attach two together and break off the individual pieces that way. Bandai also include a 'Double Separator' tool to help with the new method of building.

The newest model added to this line will be the Gundam AGE-2 Normal, which will be released April 2012. The AGE-2 is the upgraded version of the AGE-1 and will feature the same illuminated head, eyes and chest piece gimmick.

1/35 scale

Universal Century HardGraph does not primarily center around the humanoids of the Gundam universe. Rather, it centers on military things on a more conventional scale such as land vehicles, tanks and troops. However, some kits do include detailed to-scale mecha parts which are particularly useful for the creation of dioramas. For instance, the Anti-MS Squad kit includes an articulated lower Gundam/GM arm.

Other/Mixed Scales

There are other, less common scales, like the Mega Grade's 1/48, the Speed Grade's 1/200. A 1/400 scale model line is designed for large mobile armours and battle ships in the Gundam Collection line, which the line's ordinary mobile suits are figures, not models. Only extremely large units like Mobile Armours and Warships need assembly. These models are pre-coloured models, and the warships need minimal assembly. An earlier line of model, the High Grade Mechanics, with a scale of 1/550 held a similar function in introducing large mobile units, but the line only consist of 3 mobile units from 0083.

Another high-detail line is the EX model, in scales of 1/144 and 1/100 and 1/1600, 1/1700 (spaceships), ranging from the Universal Century to Cosmic Era productions. This series is not Gundam-exclusive, having models from other series like some of the jet aircraft from Sentō Yōsei Yukikaze and at least one aircraft from Ace Combat 5.

Gundam Fix Figuration

The Gundam Fix Figuration (aka G.F.F.) series of collectible figures was started based on the Gundam mechanical designs of Hajime Katoki and his 'Gundam Fix' illustration artbook and are released by Bandai. Gundam Fix figures share similar features as those found in the MSiA series, but are considerably more detailed and often include more accessories. Changeable parts and variant models are often utilized throughout the line, offering the collector a wide variety of display abilities. The collectible figures use PVC (with some ABS plastic) for construction materials, and a recently introduced expansion to the line use metal in the skeleton of the figure. Gundam Fix figures are designed to be true to Hajime Katoki's vision, and as such often adopt design elements and styling found throughout his artwork. The Fix series caters to Gundam fans who enjoy the scale, possibility and durability of the MSiA line, but seek the extensive details and variations that can often only be found in the Master Grade Gundam model-kits.

Bandai also created similar toy lines:

- G.F.F. Metal Composite - a spin-off of the G.F.F. series utilizing injection-molded ABS plastic and die-cast metal.

- Zeonography - a spin-off of the G.F.F. series that showcases mobile suits from the Zeon forces.

- Cosmic Region - high-quality line of mobile suits, similar to G.F.F., that appear in Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny.

- 00 (Double Zero) Region - high-quality line of mobile suits, similar to G.F.F., that appear in Mobile Suit Gundam 00.

- G.F.F.N. - Gundam Fix Figuration Next Generation, '004X' Series utilizing metallic parts, slightly larger scale, better quality paint job and markings. The first figure is a re-release of the #0030 MSZ-008 Zeta II, released March 2009.

- K.F.F. (Keroro Fix Figuration) - a spinoff lines features characters in Sgt. Frog (which the series itself plays lots of parody towards Gundam series) with original mechas designed by Hajime Katoki. As being a parody, the boxart sticks as much what as the original G.F.F. is. [Source: wikia]

Non Plastic

Bandai has also released some Gundam garage kit under their branch, B-Club. These models are composed of unpainted resin with no decals provided, often needing modification by the modeler due to the inherent properties of the manufacturing process. While comparably more expensive compared to plastic kits, they offer an unparalleled level of detail for the dedicated and experienced model builder.

A few select kits have also appeared manufactured from metal. These kits are offered by several different manufacturers and most commonly will result in a finished model of about MG level. These real detail types of models usually take days to build.

Gundam Models
Source: www.scalemodelmuseum.com