Bandai Gunpla (Gundam Plastic Model Kits)

Gunpla, a portmanteau of "Gundam Plastic Model," represents a massive cultural phenomenon in the hobby world. These kits allow fans to build articulated scale models of the mobile suits featured in the long-running Mobile Suit Gundam franchise. Since their introduction in 1980, Gunpla kits have evolved through various grades—such as High Grade (HG), Master Grade (MG), and Perfect Grade (PG)—offering different levels of complexity and detail for builders of all skill levels.

The brand is a cornerstone of the Japanese hobby industry, known for its high-quality engineering and "snap-fit" assembly that requires no glue. Most production is concentrated at the Bandai Hobby Center in Shizuoka, Japan, which is famous for its advanced multi-color injection molding technology. As of 2024 and beyond, the brand remains a flagship property of Bandai Namco, continuing to expand its global reach through international distribution and dedicated flagship stores like Gundam Base.