Gundam Build Metaverse: The Virtual Battle Arena Fans Always Wanted

In an exciting blend of anime, virtual reality, and cutting-edge technology, Bandai Namco has launched “Gundam Build Metaverse,” a three-episode online animation series. This release marks the 10th anniversary of the Gundam Build franchise and serves as an introduction to the Gundam Metaverse Project. Released in October 2023, the series not only celebrates Gundam’s legacy but also invites fans into a vibrant virtual world where they can build, battle, and connect like never before.

This project is changing how fans interact with the Gundam universe and hints at a future powered by blockchain technology. As Gundam Build Metaverse continues to evolve, it is reshaping fan engagement and paving the way for exciting new experiences.

What Is Gundam Build Metaverse?

Gundam Build Metaverse is a three-episode anime series released in October 2023, designed to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Gundam Build franchise and the 45th anniversary of the broader Gundam universe. The series introduces fans to a virtual world where they can control avatars, build and battle Gunpla (Gundam plastic models), and connect with other enthusiasts. The story follows Rio Hojo, a young Gunpla builder from Hawaii, as he navigates this digital realm, learning from mentors and encountering past champions.

A New Chapter in the Gundam Build Saga

“Gundam Build Metaverse” is a short but impactful addition to the Gundam Build saga, celebrating the craft of building and battling Gunpla—Gundam plastic models. Directed by Masami Ōbari and written by Noboru Kimura, this three-part series includes episodes titled “Dive,” “Re:Rise,” and “Try&Fight.” It was showcased at events like Gundam Next Future and within the Gundam Metaverse, with subtitled versions available on the GundamInfo YouTube channel.

The story follows Rio Hojo, a young builder from Hawaii, who enters the Gundam Metaverse, a new VR platform where users can control avatars and participate in virtual Gunpla battles. Guided by Seria Urutsuki, a hobby shop clerk who also acts as the mysterious Mask Lady, Rio creates his own unique Gunpla called the Lah Gundam. Along the way, he meets fan-favorite characters like Fumina Hoshino and Tatsuya Yuuki (also known as Meijin Kawaguchi III), blending nostalgia with new excitement for fans of all ages.

The anime launched alongside the early access release of the Gundam Metaverse Project in Japan and the U.S., making it a perfect introduction to this digital world. With stunning visuals and the theme song “Days of Birth” by LINKL PLANET, the series captures the excitement of entering a bold new frontier in the Gundam universe.

The Gundam Metaverse Project: A Virtual Playground

The Gundam Metaverse Project is Bandai Namco’s bold vision to build a global virtual hub for Gundam fans. Accessible on PC and soon via the Gundam Navi App for smartphones, the metaverse is organized into digital space colonies known as “SIDE-G.” Each colony focuses on different facets of the Gundam universe anime, music, video games, Gunpla, and more. The first active colony centers on Gunpla, allowing users to showcase their models, engage in virtual battles, and even buy real-world Gunpla kits directly within the platform. Past limited-time launches offered sneak peeks, and the next major phase coincides with Expo 2025 in Osaka, featuring giant Gundam statues and a Hatsune Miku collaboration concert. An esports colony is also in the works, expanding the metaverse’s scope.

Despite a brief suspension in October 2023 following a reported data leak, the project has bounced back, underlining Bandai Namco’s commitment to delivering a robust and evolving digital experience for its community.

Blockchain’s Role

Bandai Namco has shown interest in blockchain technology through its Bandai Namco Entertainment 021 Fund, which invests in startups focused on blockchain, Web3, and virtual reality. While the Gundam Metaverse doesn’t heavily feature crypto elements yet, the company is exploring blockchain to support user-generated content and peer-to-peer transactions, prioritizing fan engagement over speculative investments.

Challenges and Future Prospects

The Gundam Metaverse faced early setbacks, including a 2023 data leak that paused downloads. However, Bandai Namco’s quick recovery and successful events in 2024–2025 show strong momentum. A major rollout is planned post-2026, featuring digital Gunpla competitions, Hatsune Miku collaborations, and potential blockchain features like tokenized rewards and fan-created content hinting at a more interactive future for Gundam fans.

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A New Era for Gundam Fans