Gundam and Gunpla are terms that have captured the attention of modeling enthusiasts and anime fans around the world. In Japan especially, these giant robots—and the meticulously crafted plastic models that represent them—have achieved iconic status.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Gundam, the rise of Gunpla as a hobby, and how both have spread globally. We’ll also look at key events, local trends, and how you can start (or enhance) your Gunpla journey with the right tools and techniques.
The Birth of Gundam: A New Kind of Mecha Storytelling
Gundam is a legendary Japanese sci-fi franchise that began in 1979 with the anime Mobile Suit Gundam. At the time, most “giant robot” shows fell into the “Super Robot” genre—where the mecha were flashy, almost magical heroes. Gundam broke this mold by introducing the Real Robot subgenre, portraying mobile suits as military machines operated by trained pilots, grounded in political, economic, and ethical conflicts.
This approach gave Gundam a unique realism that resonated with audiences. Fans didn’t just see robots—they saw war machines, pilots, and the human stories behind the battles.
Today, Gundam is a multimedia powerhouse that includes:
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Dozens of anime series and films spanning multiple universes
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Manga and novels expanding on the lore
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Video games across multiple platforms
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And perhaps most famously, model kits known as Gunpla
You can explore official Gundam news, series, and releases at Gundam-Info.
The Rise of Gunpla: Building Your Own Mobile Suit
Gunpla—short for Gundam Plastic Model—debuted in 1980, just a year after the first anime aired. These buildable kits allowed fans to create miniature versions of their favorite mobile suits at home. Over the decades, Gunpla has grown into one of the most popular model kit lines in the world.
Building Gunpla blends creativity, patience, and skill. Kits range from beginner-friendly snap-fit builds to highly complex models requiring advanced tools and painting techniques.
Whether you’re just starting or have been building for years, there’s a grade for everyone:
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HG (High Grade): 1/144 scale; simple builds, perfect for beginners or casual hobbyists.
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RG (Real Grade): 1/144 scale but with advanced engineering, realistic details, and better articulation.
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MG (Master Grade): 1/100 scale; includes inner frames, detailed articulation, and more parts.
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PG (Perfect Grade): 1/60 scale; the ultimate challenge with exceptional detail and complexity.
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Mega Size: 1/48 scale; massive pieces but straightforward construction, similar to HG in build style.
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SD (Super Deformed): Smaller, exaggerated proportions—fun, affordable, and great for practicing painting skills.
At SprayGunner, we carry everything to take your Gunpla builds to the next level:
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Tools for Assembly – cutters, sanding sticks, files
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Primers – to prepare plastic for painting
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Airbrush Paints – vibrant colors for custom finishes
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Airbrush Kits & Compressors – for professional-quality results
Real-World Gundams: Life-Size Statues That Wow
The fascination with Gundam goes beyond TV and model kits. Around the world, fans can visit life-size Gundam statues:
Unicorn Gundam – Odaiba, Tokyo, Japan
Nu Gundam – Fukuoka, Japan
Freedom Gundam – Shanghai, China
These towering replicas bring the mecha to life, attracting fans from across the globe.
The Gunpla Builders World Cup (GBWC)
The Gunpla Builders World Cup (GBWC) is a prominent event that brings together modelers from around the world to compete in creating artwork based on Gundam mobile suits. This annual competition rewards the creativity, skill, and passion of the participants and offers the opportunity to learn from the masters and admire their works. The GBWC has become a platform to showcase the latest trends in Gunpla modeling and promote the global community of hobbyists.
In addition to these highlights, Japan also hosts modeling fairs such as the Shizuoka Hobby Show, where the newest products from various brands of plastic models, including Gundam, are announced and exhibited. These expos are meeting places for enthusiasts, who can explore the latest trends and acquire new products for their collections.
See the upcoming 2026 WORLD FINALS: https://gbwc.bandai-hobby.net/en/
Global Gunpla Culture
While Japan remains the heart of Gundam culture, Gunpla has exploded internationally:
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United States: Gunpla competitions are growing at conventions like Anime Expo.
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Europe: Builders share techniques at modeling shows and hobby clubs.
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Southeast Asia: Countries like the Philippines, Malaysia, and Indonesia have strong builder communities and local competitions.
Storytelling Evolution: Gundam for a New Generation
Classic Gundam stories emphasized the tragedies of war, but recent series bring emotional nuance and social commentary.
Like the recent release of the new series, which sparked a growing interest titled: Mobile Suit Gundam: Gquuuuuux
The Gquuuuuux Phenomenon: Avant-Garde of mobile suits
The Gundam universe took a daring turn with the mobile suit Gquuuuuux (pronounced as Gquacks 🦆). A groundbreaking design that defied conventions.
Ikuto Yamashita, of Neon Genesis Evangelion fame, reimagined what a Gundam could be. Gquuuuuux’s biomechanical design borrows heavily from surrealist and organic aesthetics.
Anno, the mind behind Evangelion and Shin Godzilla, layered psychological depth and discomfort into the story and design of Gquuuuuux.
The response? Overwhelming.
The Build Series
Yes, there is a series that puts a spotlight on GUNPLA, the plastic models inspired by the Gundam series and sold by Bandai.
Unlike previous Gundam series, it takes place in a setting that is more akin to our present-day world and focuses on characters who build GUNPLA and fight battles in their original mobile suits. The focus on adolescence and friendship also sets it apart from other Gundam series.
Why Gunpla is More Than a Hobby
Gunpla is more than plastic - it’s a passion. Builders of all ages and backgrounds find joy and creativity in the process.
Ready to Start Building?
If you’re inspired to dive into the world of Gunpla, check out SprayGunner—your one-stop shop for tools, paints, and everything in between.
What you’ll find: - Precision tools: cutters, sanding sticks, and files - Airbrush systems and compressors - Paints, primers, topcoats, and weathering supplies