Japan's BANDAI SPIRITS Company HOBBY Division previewed multiple new technologies to be applied to the popular Gundam model product "GUNPLA" in the future, during the large-scale physical event for the "Gundam" series, "GUNDAM NEXT FUTURE -FINAL-", held last weekend. Some prototypes were also exhibited on-site.
Toy enthusiasts who have been continuously following or playing with Gunpla should know that Bandai has made continuous breakthroughs in Gunpla manufacturing technology over the past 30 years. From the "MG" series laying the foundation for color separation and part division, the "PG" series incorporating a large number of experimental mechanisms, and the "RG" series achieving precise sculpting and movable inner frames in 1/144 scale, to the recent "MGEX" and "MGSD" which develop MG technology in different directions, the "PG UNLEASHED" which represents the culmination of Gunpla technology, and even Gunpla that utilizes chemically recycled materials.
▼ PG UNLEASHED RX-78-2 Gundam
▼ MGEX Strike Freedom Gundam
▼ Recycled Material Gunpla
In addition to the aforementioned technologies that refine aspects such as design, manufacturing processes, and environmental protection, Bandai has also placed great emphasis on strategies for accessibility and popularization in recent years. For example, the "ENTRY GRADE" series significantly lowers the barrier to model building, offering cool Gundam models at low prices that can be completed without any tools. At the same time, Bandai has also launched the brand promotion idol girl group "LINKL PLANET" and assisted in the production of the model-themed Japanese drama "Riko's Quantity Production" (Ryōsan-gata Riko), further promoting the "Gundam" IP, its own products, and the joy of assembling models.
▼ "Riko's Quantity Production" (Starring: Yuki Yoda)
▼ "LINKL PLANET" (From left: Remi Amakawa, Ruka Higashionna, Nana Miyazaki)
The multiple new technologies announced by Bandai this time also fundamentally fall under the latter popularization strategy. The exhibited prototypes include technologies such as "laser processing," which utilizes automotive industry techniques to create a rock-like texture resembling the earth's surface; "stone pattern coloring," which mixes mineral fragments into resin; and "marble pattern coloring," which molds colored resins of different viscosities together.
Furthermore, new technologies such as "models that can be placed in hot water," "Gunpla with a cute appearance," and "a new experience completed by 'folding'" are also expected to be announced sequentially in the future. It is believed that these will lead to the creation of more Gunpla products with highly distinctive appearances and diverse playstyles.
via： GUNDAM.INFO