Gunpla, a portmanteau of “Gundam” and “plastic model,” refers to the plastic model kits depicting the various mechas (robots) from the popular Japanese anime series, Gundam. Since their inception, Gunpla kits have become a global phenomenon, captivating hobbyists and collectors alike. The history of Gunpla is intertwined with the evolution of the Gundam franchise and the advancements in model kit technology.
The Birth of Gunpla : 1980s
The Gundam franchise began with the release of “Mobile Suit Gundam” in 1979, created by Yoshiyuki Tomino and Sunrise. The series introduced a more realistic and militaristic approach to the mecha genre, emphasizing complex characters and political themes. Its popularity led to the development of merchandise, including the first Gunpla kits.
In July 1980, Bandai, a leading Japanese toy and hobby manufacturer, released the first Gunpla kits. These early models were 1/144 scale replicas of the mobile suits featured in “Mobile Suit Gundam.” Despite their relatively simple designs and limited articulation, these kits were a massive hit, selling millions of units and laying the foundation for the Gunpla phenomenon.
The 1990s : Evolution and Innovation
Throughout the 1980s and into the 1990s, Bandai continued to refine Gunpla kits, improving their quality and introducing new scales, such as 1/100 and 1/60. The introduction of the Master Grade (MG) line in 1995 marked a significant milestone in Gunpla history. MG kits featured enhanced detail, articulation, and internal skeletons, setting a new standard for model kits.
The 1990s also saw the release of various Gundam series, each contributing to the expanding universe and providing new designs for Gunpla kits. “Mobile Suit Gundam Wing,” which aired in 1995, became particularly popular in the West, helping to globalize the Gunpla hobby.
The 2000s : Global Expansion
The turn of the millennium brought further innovation and global expansion for Gunpla. The release of the Perfect Grade (PG) line in 1998 introduced the most detailed and complex kits to date, appealing to hardcore enthusiasts. The High Grade Universal Century (HGUC) line, launched in 1999, offered improved detail and articulation at an affordable price, making Gunpla accessible to a broader audience.
The 2000s also saw the rise of the Gundam franchise’s international popularity. Series like “Mobile Suit Gundam SEED” and “Mobile Suit Gundam 00” attracted new fans worldwide, and Gunpla kits became widely available outside Japan. Bandai’s marketing efforts, including events, competitions, and dedicated Gunpla stores, further fueled the hobby’s global growth.
The 2010s : Digital Age and Customization
In the 2010s, the Gunpla hobby embraced the digital age. Bandai introduced the Real Grade (RG) line in 2010, combining the complexity of PG kits with the accessibility of HG kits. Advances in 3D modeling and printing technology allowed for more intricate designs and improved manufacturing processes.
Customization became a significant trend in the Gunpla community during this decade. The release of the anime “Gundam Build Fighters” in 2013, which focused on Gunpla battles and customization, inspired fans to create unique, personalized models. Gunpla competitions, such as the Gunpla Builders World Cup, showcased the creativity and skill of modelers worldwide.
The 2020s and Beyond
As of the 2020s, Gunpla continues to evolve and thrive. Bandai’s commitment to innovation and quality has kept the hobby fresh and exciting. The introduction of new lines, such as the Entry Grade (EG) series aimed at beginners, and the continued popularity of the Gundam franchise ensure that Gunpla remains a beloved pastime for fans of all ages.
The COVID-19 pandemic also had an unexpected impact on the Gunpla hobby. With more people spending time at home, interest in model building surged, leading to increased sales and a renewed appreciation for the hobby.
Today, Gunpla remains immensely popular, with millions of units sold worldwide across various Gundam models. 🌟
Feel free to explore this captivating hobby and build your own Gundam universe.