Hello everyone,
This is probably the first time you have seen my writing on the blog. Please allow me to prefer myself as the Novice-Coordinator. I was first introduced to Gundam in the 90s, and since then it has been a part of me until now. I believe that you guys have already read the blogs about Gunpla and HG 0 Gundam that have been posted by Yozora and 00Gek previously, right? Today, please let me introduce to you the Gunpla Master Grade. Wait no more time and let’s get into it.
So, what are the Gunpla model kits: the Master Grade (MG)?
The MG is one of the production lines of Gunpla produced by BANDAI in 1995 as a part of their 15th Anniversary projects. The MG is known for its leveling details that are superior to the HG especially when it comes to body articulations and inner frame connections. For certain model kits like the MG Unicorn Gundam, the Gundam head and body are transformable after assembling and can be switched around between Unicorn Mode or Destroy Mode. The HG, on the other hand, is fixed to two different model kits in different modes that are sold separately. The chest, in general, also contains multiple mechanisms that allow the kit to perform the left-right tilt and abdominal crunch which is helpful when the user wants to put it in a certain pose. The pilot cabin is also present in the MG kits and is located in the middle of the chest section which includes connected parts and hinges that can move around and reveal the pilot inside. The limbs of the MG are also more complex than the HG kits. Most of the MG kits have double joints at arms and legs that allow complex leg movements. The MG model kit's scale is also different compared to the HG ones: 1/100 vs 1/144.
The MG lines themselves are also divided into multiple versions besides the standard ones. They are MG Version Ka., MGEX, and MGSD.
The MG Version Ka. This version of Gunpla is also known as the “Artist” edition of Mr. Hajime Katoki, a Japanese mecha designer. This version of the MG is known for its eye-catching box art design and tons of water slide decals. Many of them are fan favorites: Gundam Narrative C-Pack, MG Sazabi and the Zeta Gundam. Whatever comes with pros, also comes with cons. Not all the Ver.ka of the MG are considered “Great.” For some models such as the Unicorn Gundam ver. Ka’s lack of Vulcan cannon on the head and the V-fin on the legs restricts the knee bend movements.
The MGEX kits are an upgraded version of the MG in terms of details and functionalities. The MGEX Strike Freedom for example has way more details than its counterparts MGs and the MGEX Unicorn Gundam that has a “Built-in” LED system that easily installs as you build. However, these MGEX also come with premium price tags which should also be considered depending on the builder’s budgets.
MGSD, a hybrid between the MG and the SD (Super-Deformed) line of master grade. Small but mighty, the MGSD has the detail level of the MG scale down to the side of the SD. The MGSD is rather new, and the selection is few. The first of its class arrived in January 2023, which was the MGSD Freedom Gundam and after that MGSD Barbatos (October 2023), the MGSD Wing Gundam (November 2024) and the MGSD Gundam Aerial (Releasing August 2025).
This is just the introduction of MG that I would like to introduce to you, whom I will call the G-Builders (Gunpla Builders) from now on. I will be more than happy to assist you during your journey to the Gunpla Universe. Let's enjoy building Gunpla together!
Gunpla is freedom, just like Yozora always said.
- NoviceCoordinator