The Popularity of HG Gundam Seed Gunpla Model Kits

The Popularity of HG Gundam Seed Model Kits

Gundam model kits, also known as Gunpla, have been popular among anime fans and model enthusiasts for decades. The High Grade (HG) line of Gundam model kits is a hugely popular category, known for its balance between detail and affordability. Within the HG line, the designs from the Gundam Seed anime series have proven to be especially in-demand.

The Gundam Seed HG Model Kits

The Gundam Seed series introduced fans to new Mobile Suits like the Freedom Gundam and Justice Gundam. Bandai has released dozens of HG kits from Gundam Seed, covering all the major designs. These kits allow builders to recreate iconic scenes and battles from the show. Popular releases include:

• HG 1/144 Strike Gundam
• HG 1/144 Aile Strike Gundam
• HG 1/144 Freedom Gundam
• HG 1/144 Justice Gundam
• HG 1/144 Providence Gundam

The HG Seed kits feature modern color separation and engineering techniques that improve poseability. Extra effort has been made to recreate the designs from the anime as accurately as possible. These kits also include decals and stickers for added detail.

Why HG Gundam Seed Kits Are So Popular

There are several reasons why the HG Gundam Seed line resonates so strongly with Gunpla enthusiasts:

• Nostalgia - Many builders first saw Gundam Seed when they were younger, so recreating the kits triggers fond memories.
• Display Potential - The SEED Mobile Suits have sleek, modern designs that look incredible when built and posed.
• Customization - The kits are very customizable, allowing builders to create unique color schemes and battle damage effects.
• Affordability - HG models provide great value, with prices ranging from $15-$25 USD on average.

Tips for Building HG Gundam Seed Kits

Here are some tips to get the most out of your HG Gundam Seed model kit project:

• Carefully cut parts from the runners and clean up nubs with hobby knives and files.
• Test fit pieces before gluing to ensure proper alignment and range of motion.
• Use plastic cement sparingly to avoid glue marks.
• Apply stickers and decals carefully using tweezers and decal setting solution.
• Panel line the finished model with black, gray, or brown Gundam markers to accentuate details.
• Consider painting key areas for a more realistic and customized look.
• Photograph the completed kit creatively, considering dynamic poses and interesting backgrounds related to the series.

Customizing Options for HG Seed Kits

One of the biggest appeals of Gunpla is being able to put your own creative spin on the kits. Some popular customization options for HG Seed models include:

• Painting - Hand painting or airbrushing can completely change the colors and finish.
• Kitbashing - Mix and match parts from other kits for inventive mash-up designs.
• Scratch Building - Sculpt new armor, weapons, or details using styrene plastic sheets and rods.
• Lighting - Add LEDs to the eyes, thrusters, and other areas for impressive glowing effects.
• Battle Damage - Simulate wear and tear using painting, scribing, sanding, and strategic application of silver paint.

The Enduring Popularity of Gundam Seed Gunpla

The Gundam Seed series made a huge impact in the early 2000s, defining a new generation of Gundam designs. The HG model kits have remained sought-after collectibles even today. For many, building the iconic suits from the show brings back great memories of discovering Gundam. The SEED aesthetic and engineering improvements also make these great display pieces. With smart design choices, attention to anime accuracy, and sheer nostalgic appeal, it's no wonder that HG Gundam Seed continues to resonate with Gunpla fans worldwide.

FAQs

What are some of the most popular HG Gundam Seed kits?

Some of the most popular options include the Strike Gundam, Freedom Gundam, Justice Gundam, Aile Strike, and Providence Gundam.

Are the HG Seed kits easy to build?

HG kits are designed to be beginner friendly. They use modern engineering for better poseability. The Seed kits do have lots of small parts and decals though, so take your time.

What tools do I need to build HG Gundam models?

You'll need nippers for removing parts from runners, an X-acto knife for trimming nubs, plastic cement for gluing, and tweezers for decal application. Gundam markers are great for panel lining.

Can I customize HG Seed Gunpla?

Absolutely! You can paint the kits, add custom decals, use kitbashing to mix parts, sculpt new details, and even add LED lighting effects.

Where is the best place to buy HG Gundam Seed kits?

Hobby shops and online retailers like Amazon, HobbyLink Japan, and USAGundamStore are great places to find HG Seed Gunpla.