Bandai's GASHAPON capsule toy brand has announced a new product line from Mobile Suit Gundam: the EXCEED MODEL TRINITY RX-78-2 GUNDAM. This series is divided into three distinct snap-fit kits: the Outer Armor, the Internal Structure, and the Core Fighter Cockpit. Each can be displayed individually, but collecting all three allows you to assemble a massive RX-78-2 Gundam bust standing approximately 20cm tall. A GASHAPON ONLINE exclusive version, which includes cables and light-up components, will be available for 1,850 JPY per try, with orders opening on August 31, 2026, at 11:00 AM JST.
"TRINITY" signifies the three-in-one nature of the product. As the "EXCEED MODEL ZAKU HEAD" series, first launched in 2017, approaches its 10th anniversary, this new release represents the next generation of capsule-less toys, integrating all the technology developed so far. Back in 2017, the largest available Gashapon capsules were about 74mm in diameter; today, the format can utilize large 90mm capsules. This new model takes it a step further by engineering the large exterior parts to form the spherical shell themselves, eliminating the need for a separate capsule and allowing the final assembled size to be roughly 20% larger than conventional methods.
The overall design was handled by renowned model creator Shimoda Heavy Industries, winner of the GUNPLA BUILDERS WORLD CUP 2017. The internal mechanical details were newly illustrated by ASTRAYS, balancing the original anime design with the industrial, mechanical feel of a "what-if" real-world Gundam. The project began in 2023, and it took the development team approximately three years and eight prototype revisions to finalize a structure that could be broken down into three units, each fitting within a 90mm sphere.
Among the three kits, the Outer Armor assembles into a standalone Gundam head measuring about 12cm tall. The armor features a layered design, allowing glimpses of the dark gray inner sections through the panel lines. Fine markings on the head and neck are applied via pad printing. The Internal Structure also stands around 12cm tall, using numerous color-separated parts to create a detailed frame as if the armor were removed. The silver and gold hydraulic pistons are even made from metal parts. The Core Fighter Cockpit measures approximately 15cm in length. Its canopy can be opened to reveal a pre-painted figure of Amuro Ray inside, along with an instrument panel detailed with stickers. The unit is mounted on a display base using a 1.5mm diameter metal rod.
When all three kits are combined to form the large RX-78-2 Gundam bust, multiple hatches can be opened, including those on the back of the head, the main head sensor, the faceplate, and the power plant area. The V-Fin can slide forward, and with the forehead hatch open, it can replicate the maintenance state for the Vulcan Cannon ammunition. Opening the faceplate reveals the internal cooling systems and intake/exhaust pipes. The main head sensor can be raised, and the cockpit seat can be pulled forward, allowing collectors to switch between full armor, internal frame, and full-hatch-open display modes.
The GASHAPON ONLINE exclusive version adds special components to each of the three kits: a cable set for the Outer Armor, a head light-up unit for the Internal Structure, and a cockpit light-up unit for the Core Fighter Cockpit. Once assembled, brown, silver, and red cables can be run from the base to the head to create a maintenance bay diorama scene. The unit can illuminate the eyes, the secondary head camera, the rear camera, and the cockpit interior. A standard version without the cables and light-up components is also planned for future release in PREMIUM GASHAPON's 90mm dedicated machines for 1,500 JPY per try. Both versions are dispensed randomly, so if you want to get this Gundam fully operational, you'll not only need to collect all three parts but also have the luck of the Federation on your side!
EXCEED MODEL TRINITY RX-78-2 GUNDAM Cable + Light Unit Set
Lineup: 3 types total (random)
Types: Outer Armor + Cable Set / Internal Structure + Head Light Unit / Core Fighter Cockpit + Cockpit Light Unit
Specification: ABS snap-fit assembly kit
Size: Approx. 120-150 mm for individual units; approx. 200 mm total height when combined
Materials: ABS, MABS, PVC, Nylon
Recommended Age: 15 and up
Price: 1,850 JPY per try (tax included)
Pre-order Period: August 31, 2026 (11:00 AM JST) to September 10, 2026 (11:59 PM JST)
Release Method: GASHAPON ONLINE Exclusive
Estimated Ship Date: Late October 2026
EXCEED MODEL TRINITY RX-78-2 GUNDAM
Lineup: 3 types total (random)
Types: Outer Armor / Internal Structure / Core Fighter Cockpit
Specification: ABS snap-fit assembly kit
Size: Approx. 120-150 mm for individual units; approx. 200 mm total height when combined
Price: 1,500 JPY per try (tax included)
Release Method: PREMIUM GASHAPON 90mm dedicated machine
Release Date: To be announced
via： バンダイナムコグループ公式通販サイト