Revisiting the Classic G Gundam GunPla Lineup from the 90s

Continuing our nostalgic train, let's take a trip down memory lane to revisit the 1994 hit Gundam anime series, Mobile Fighter G Gundam! This beloved series is celebrating its 30th anniversary this year (2024).

Mobile Fighter G Gundam is a unique entry in the Gundam franchise, blending traditional mecha action with martial arts flair. Set in the Future Century, a time when Earth is devastated and various space colonies have taken over as the dominant powers, the series introduces a new way of resolving political disputes: the Gundam Fight. This international tournament, held every four years, determines which nation will lead the colonies by pitting their representative Mobile Fighters, known as Gundams, against each other in combat.

The story follows Domon Kasshu, the pilot of the Shining Gundam, who represents Neo Japan in the tournament. Domon is not only fighting for his nation's supremacy but also on a personal mission to track down his brother, who is connected to the creation of the powerful and dangerous Devil Gundam. Alongside his comrades and allies, Domon faces various opponents, each with their unique Gundams and fighting styles, uncovering deeper conspiracies and forging bonds that transcend borders.

The Pioneer Kits of the 90s

The original 1/144 no grade kits were the first GunPla models that introduced many 90s kids to the world of GunPla. These kits were released in conjunction with the airing of G Gundam and have a special place in the hearts of many fans.

The 1/144 Scale Kits

There were a total of 16 kits released in the 1/144 scale, which include the following iconic mobile suits:

• 1/144 Shining Gundam - April 1994 - 500 Yen
• 1/144 Dragon Gundam - May 1994 - 500 Yen
• 1/144 Gundam Maxter - May 1994 - 500 Yen
• 1/144 Gundam Rose - May 1994 - 500 Yen
• 1/144 Bolt Gundam - July 1994 - 500 Yen
• 1/144 Gundam Spiegel - July 1994 - 500 Yen
• 1/144 Master Gundam - July 1994 - 500 Yen
• 1/144 G Gundam / Burning Gundam - September 1994 - 500 Yen
• 1/144 Rising Gundam - December 1994 - 500 Yen
• 1/144 Devil Gundam -  January 1995 - 1,000 Yen

Gold Plated (Hyper Mode)

• 1/144 Dragon Gundam - March 1995 - 700 Yen
• 1/144 Gundam Maxter - March 1995 - 700 Yen
• 1/144 Gundam Rose - March 1995 - 700 Yen
• 1/144 Bolt Gundam - March 1995 - 700 Yen
• 1/144 G Gundam / Burning Gundam - March 1995 - 700 Yen

Additionally, there was an accessory pack, and Gundam base exclusive release, bringing the total to 18 if we include these special releases.

• Grade Up Set for 5 Mobile Fighters - August 1994 - 200 Yen
• 1/144 Devil Gundam Clear Color (Gundam Base exclusive) - August 2022 - 1,300 Yen

G Gundam toy commercial / DX MSiA action figure.

The HG 1/100 scale include 6 kits which are:

• HG 1/100 Shining Gundam - April 1994 - 1,500 Yen
• HG 1/100 Dragon Gundam - July 1994 - 1,1500 Yen
• HG 1/100 Master Gundam - August 1994 - 1,500 Yen
• HG 1/100 Gundam Maxter - August 1994 - 1,500 Yen
• HG 1/100 G Gundam / Burning Gundam - October 1994 - 1,500 Yen
• HG 1/100 Rising Gundam - December 1994 - 1,500 Yen

1/60 scale G Gundam kits

• 1/60 Shining Gundam - June 1994 - 3,000 Yen
• 1/60 G Gundam - October 1994 - 3,000 Yen

Evolution of G Gundam Kits

The original kits were eventually followed by upgraded versions in various lines:

• MG (Master Grade)
• HGFC (High Grade Future Century)
• HiRM (High Resolution Model)
• RG (Real Grade)

These newer kits brought advanced engineering, better articulation, and more detailed parts, allowing fans to experience their favorite mobile suits in a whole new light. However, we'll delve deeper into these upgraded kits in another topic.

God Gundam or Burning Gundam?

As you may know, the God Gundam was renamed to Burning Gundam in some regions due to the sensitivity around the use of the term "God," especially in countries with significant Christian and religious demographics. The name change was aimed at avoiding controversy and ensuring the series could be enjoyed by a broader audience. Despite the name change, the Gundam retains its iconic status and is officially recognized as G Gundam in the HGFC version of the kit.