Gundam is a famous anime franchise about mecha fighting action anime. The Gundams looks really fascinating, so they decided to come out with figures to make it on your own called gunpla ! Since little, I have been always into this anime, so whenever I have free time I would take out a box that I have box previously and start building it on the spot. Usually it takes around 3 hours or so, but the final product is always satisfactory.

Gundam Seed would be the first anime that I have watched from the franchise, since then I have been obsessed with Gundam and become a geek for it.

Ed. note…more on Gunpla and gaming…

The Craft of Gunpla

Gunpla building is a meticulous and rewarding process that requires patience, precision, and creativity. Model kits range in complexity from entry-level High Grade (HG) kits to the more intricate Master Grade (MG) and Perfect Grade (PG) kits. Builders follow detailed instructions to piece together pre-molded plastic parts, creating articulated and highly detailed models. Customization is a key aspect of Gunpla, allowing builders to express their artistic flair through painting, decals, and weathering techniques.

Intersection with Gaming

The connection between Gunpla and gaming is multifaceted, with several key points of intersection:

1. Virtual Gunpla Building: Video games such as New Gundam Breaker and Gundam Breaker 3 offer players the experience of building and customizing Gunpla in a virtual environment. These games allow players to assemble their own unique mecha using a wide array of parts and then test their creations in various combat scenarios. This virtual Gunpla building simulates the real-world experience, providing an accessible entry point for newcomers and a creative outlet for experienced builders.

2. Storytelling and Immersion: Both Gunpla and gaming offer immersive storytelling experiences. The intricate lore of the Gundam universe is explored through both model kits and video games. Games like Mobile Suit Gundam: Battle Operation 2 and Gundam Versus allow players to engage in epic battles and experience the rich narratives of the Gundam series. For Gunpla builders, creating models of their favorite mobile suits deepens their connection to the stories and characters they love.

3. Community and Collaboration: The Gunpla and gaming communities are vibrant and interconnected. Online forums, social media platforms, and local clubs provide spaces for enthusiasts to share their creations, exchange tips and techniques, and discuss their favorite games and model kits. Events such as Gunpla competitions and gaming tournaments foster a sense of camaraderie and collaboration, bringing together fans from both hobbies.

4. Inspiration and Innovation: Gaming often inspires new Gunpla designs and innovations. As new *Gundam* video games are released, they introduce unique mobile suits and features that can be translated into model kits. Conversely, the creativity and customization in Gunpla building can inspire game developers to incorporate new elements and mechanics into their games. This cross-pollination of ideas keeps both hobbies fresh and exciting.

The synergy between Gunpla and gaming enhances the enjoyment of both hobbies. For Gunpla builders, video games offer an interactive way to engage with the Gundam universe and test their creativity in virtual battles. For gamers, Gunpla building provides a tangible and hands-on way to connect with their favorite mecha and stories. The combination of these hobbies allows enthusiasts to fully immerse themselves in the Gundam world, enjoying both the physical and digital aspects of their passion.