The Gunpla "HG 1/144 01 Gundam" (Bandai Spirits), based on the 01 Gundam that appears in the anime "Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX (Geaku Axe)," is gaining popularity. It is so popular that the first batch of preorders, which were made available on Bandai Namco Group's shopping site Premium Bandai in October last year, and the second batch on January 13th, "sold out instantly." But what kind of machine is the 01 Gundam?
◇Who is the pilot?
The 01 Gundam is a prototype variation of the Gundam developed by the Earth Federation Forces. It's pronounced "Zerohito" and not "Zeroichi." It features a black and white color scheme, a visor-style camera eye similar to that of the Guncannon, and a Core Block System that allows the cockpit to separate and become an independent Core Fighter.
The beam sabers and other armaments were the same as those of the RX-78-02, and the maneuverability was also roughly the same. Many fans are reminded of the prototype Gundam by its coloring and other features.
It appeared in the second episode of the TV anime, "The White Gundam." Char Aznable, an ace pilot of the Principality of Zeon, captures the Earth Federation Forces' latest mobile suit, the White Gundam. Char's White Gundam engages in combat with the 01 Gundam.
The 01 Gundam fought well, even to the point that Char exclaimed, "Don't do it, 01 Gundam." The identity of the pilot is not shown, but since he made Char say "Don't do it," he must be no ordinary pilot. Fans have offered various speculations about the unknown pilot.
◇It sold out immediately, but...
This Gunpla is part of the "HG" series. Its distinctive head is recreated with new molding, and the body is color-coded with the molding color. It comes with a beam rifle, beam saber, hyper bazooka, and shield, and the shield can be attached to the arm and backpack via joint parts.
The first and second reservations were "instantly sold out," but Gunpla sold at "Premium Bandai" often accepts additional reservations. Even for fans who weren't able to get their hands on one, it's definitely worth keeping an eye out for further news. (Anima Mitsuru/MANTANWEB)
