What is the difference between “Gunpla” and “Gundam”?

For many enthusiasts of the Gundam universe, the terms "Gunpla" and "Gundam" are often used interchangeably, but they refer to different things. Understanding the distinction between these two terms is essential for any serious fan or collector. While both are deeply rooted in the world of Gundam, they represent different aspects of the franchise.

In this article, we will explore the key differences between Gunpla and Gundam, including their origins, meanings, and how they’re related to the broader Gundam universe.

What Is Gundam?

Gundam refers to the iconic science fiction franchise created by Yoshiyuki Tomino and produced by Sunrise, first debuting in 1979 with the anime series Mobile Suit Gundam. Gundam is set in a futuristic world where humans have colonized space, and it centers around giant humanoid robots called Mobile Suits. The storylines of the various Gundam anime series explore the battles, politics, and relationships between humans, as well as the development and use of these powerful machines.

Gundam Key Characteristics

  • Mobile Suits: The centerpiece of the franchise, these giant robots (often piloted by humans) are used in warfare, exploration, and more.
  • Mecha Genre: Gundam is a foundational series in the mecha genre, influencing countless other works in the field of robotic anime.
  • Expansive Universe: The Gundam franchise spans multiple anime series, movies, manga, video games, and other media, creating a rich, ever-expanding universe.

Popular Gundam Series

  • Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)
  • Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985)
  • Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995)
  • Mobile Suit Gundam 00 (2007)
  • Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans (2015)

The core element of all these series is the Gundam itself, often represented by a specific Mobile Suit, such as the RX-78-2 Gundam from the original series.

What Is Gunpla?

Gunpla is a portmanteau of the words Gundam and plastic model. It refers to the collection of model kits based on the various Mobile Suits from the Gundam universe. These model kits, produced by Bandai, are designed for hobbyists to build and customize. Gunpla kits come in a variety of scales, from small beginner models to highly detailed, advanced kits.

Gunpla Key Characteristics

  • Plastic Model Kits: Gunpla are plastic models that require assembly. Builders can either follow the instructions for a straightforward build or customize their kits with paint, decals, and other modifications.
  • Range of Scales: Gunpla kits come in different scales, including 1/144, 1/100, and 1/60, with varying levels of complexity and detail.
  • Customization: One of the primary appeals of Gunpla is the ability to customize the models. Builders can paint, add weathering, modify parts, and even create dioramas.

Gunpla Series and Grades

  • High Grade (HG): Ideal for beginners, offering relatively simple assembly and smaller sizes.
  • Master Grade (MG): More complex and detailed, featuring internal frames and articulation.
  • Perfect Grade (PG): The most detailed and intricate kits, often at 1/60 scale, designed for advanced hobbyists.
  • Real Grade (RG): A combination of the detail of MG with the scale of HG, aimed at intermediate builders.

Gunpla Collecting and Community

Gunpla has become a major part of Gundam fandom, with collectors and builders frequently showcasing their creations at competitions, conventions, and online platforms. It’s not just about collecting; it’s about building, customizing, and appreciating the craftsmanship of these models.

Key Differences Between Gunpla and Gundam

Although the terms "Gunpla" and "Gundam" are often associated with each other, they serve very different roles within the franchise:

1. Gundam Refers to the Story/Universe, Gunpla Refers to the Models

  • Gundam: Refers to the fictional universe, the Mobile Suits, and the storylines portrayed in the various anime, manga, and media. The word Gundam is often used to describe the giant robots (Mobile Suits) that are central to the series.
  • Gunpla: Refers specifically to the plastic model kits based on these Mobile Suits, allowing fans to build physical representations of the fictional Gundams.

2. Gundam Is the Franchise, Gunpla Is a Hobby

  • Gundam: Is an anime franchise and a large universe that spans multiple media, including films, television series, video games, and more.
  • Gunpla: Is a hobby activity that involves the building of scale models based on the Gundam series. Gunpla has grown into a major part of the franchise, with a dedicated fan base and competitions held globally.

3. Gundam Is a Fictional Entity, Gunpla Is a Physical Product

  • Gundam: Is a fictional robot, part of the anime universe, often used in warfare and exploration within the show’s narrative.
  • Gunpla: Refers to the physical, tangible model kits you can purchase and build, which represent the fictional Mobile Suits from the Gundam universe.

The Relationship Between Gunpla and Gundam

While Gundam refers to the media franchise, Gunpla allows fans to connect with the franchise on a more personal level by giving them the chance to recreate and interact with their favorite Mobile Suits in physical form.

For instance, the RX-78-2 Gundam, the original Mobile Suit from Mobile Suit Gundam, is both a central character in the Gundam anime and a highly popular Gunpla kit in various scales. As a result, Gunpla kits help bring the Gundam universe to life outside of the screen, giving fans a chance to engage with the franchise in a hands-on way.

Conclusion

In summary, Gundam refers to the beloved franchise and the Mobile Suits that are central to its universe, while Gunpla refers to the plastic model kits based on those Mobile Suits that fans can build, customize, and collect. Although the two are closely linked, they serve distinct purposes within the Gundam fandom.

Whether you're an anime watcher, a model builder, or both, understanding the difference between Gundam and Gunpla helps deepen your appreciation for the franchise and the many ways fans can engage with it.

Back to blog