If you're into Gunpla, you've probably dabbled in all sorts of customization – painting, cutting, weathering, you name it – all to make your kits truly stand out.
Well, get ready for a mind-bending masterpiece! Japanese Gunpla builder YASU (@nehorihahor) recently dropped pics of his "box art style" painted Gouf from "Mobile Suit Gundam." At first glance, it looks exactly like a 2D illustration from the box, but nope – it's a fully three-dimensional model! This illusion-mastering build has blown up online, racking up tons of praise.
From the photos he shared, this Gouf blends seamlessly with the vintage box art, almost as if the Gouf from the illustration is "flying out of the box" and being held. Netizens are absolutely floored by his incredible skill.
YASU used an early 80s Gunpla kit, the "Enhanced New Type Gouf." While these vintage kits might not boast the same level of detail or refinement as modern Gunpla, many modelers absolutely adore their unique charm. The older kits have a distinct aesthetic that sets them apart from the more intricate feel of today's Gunpla.
No stickers, no paint – that's another hallmark of these classic kits.
YASU masterfully applied his painting techniques to give the model that "box art style" look, even posing it identically. When photographed in front of the actual box art, it's genuinely hard to tell where the illustration ends and the model begins – the visual effect is absolutely stunning.
What's more, YASU also shared a version on a custom-made display stand in response to other enthusiasts. Even though you can tell it's three-dimensional, it still tricks your eyes into thinking it's a flat illustration for a moment.
Beyond this incredible Gouf build, YASU has shared many other works in this signature style on his X (formerly Twitter) account. If you're a fan of models or Gundam, definitely check out his feed for some serious painting and customization inspiration!
▼ More of YASU's work
via： X帳戶YASU