Bandai Spirits has announced an exciting new High Grade (HG) 1/144 scale kit of the Monkey Rodi (Unit 598), a key figure originating from the popular narrative Mobile Suit Gundam IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS: Urdr-Hunt. This anticipated Gunpla model is distinguished by offering fans the versatility of being assembled in two different configurations: the UGY-R266C Monkey Rodi, the imposing commander version piloted by the enigmatic 598, or its modified and aggressive variant, the UGY-R267MM Monkey Crab Rodi. The Gunpla was one of the stars at the 63rd Shizuoka Hobby Show, immediately capturing the interest of the global community of modelers and action figure collectors. Its release is anticipated for November 2025, with a price of 1,870 yen, which will undoubtedly mark a milestone for Gundam followers and mecha modeling.
HG 1/144 Monkey Rodi (Unit 598) - Gunpla Prototype
Below is a view of the HG 1/144 Monkey Rodi (Unit 598) kit, one of the two possible configurations of this new Gunpla kit.
HG 1/144 Monkey Rodi (Unit 598) - Gunpla Prototype
HG 1/144 Monkey Crab Rodi - Gunpla Prototype
Here is the Monkey Crab Rodi variant, focused on melee combat, also buildable with the same kit.
HG 1/144 Monkey Crab Rodi - Gunpla Prototype
Mobile Suit Overview: UGY-R266C Monkey Rodi and UGY-R267MM Monkey Crab Rodi
In the fascinating context of Mobile Suit Gundam IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS: Urdr-Hunt, the UGY-R266C Monkey Rodi is presented as the customized command unit optimized for pilot 598. Built on the versatile and robust Rodi Frame, this Mobile Suit is ingeniously designed to be cost-effective in production without sacrificing its notable combat capability. Its characteristic rounded nanolaminate armor grants it exceptional durability on the battlefield, while the integration of the advanced Alaya-Vijnana system significantly enhances its agility and response time, making it a formidable adversary despite its bulky design. Its leadership is highlighted as being the commander unit piloted by the enigmatic 598, easily identifiable by its horned head and distinctive orange shoulder armor.
Detailed Features and Design
The Monkey Rodi (Unit 598) has a functional and robust appearance, with parts of its internal frame strategically visible, accentuating its mechanical nature. Its distinctive features include a prominent horn on its head giving it a menacing look, striking orange shoulder pads for easy identification, and a movable visor that enhances its sensory capabilities. As for its armament, it is equipped with a high-rate machine gun, a sturdy shield derived from its own armor, and a bar-type blunt weapon, ideal for direct confrontations. This arsenal makes it a cornerstone for any Gunpla collector and mecha combat enthusiast.
The Monkey Crab Rodi variant, with its imposing 17.0 meters height and 35.5 tons weight, is specifically designed for direct and brutal assault. It uses its powerful claws and the kinetic force of its charges to crush opponents, supported by constant suppressive fire from its arm machine guns. Despite its modifications geared towards close combat, it retains the distinctive orange shoulder pads, a hallmark of its lineage and pilot. This aggressive design is perfect for recreating action scenes from Iron-Blooded Orphans.
Pilot 598 and the Urdr-Hunt Universe
The pilot, known as 598, is a main and charismatic character in the Urdr-Hunt saga. His identity is marked by the number assigned to him by his previous owner, and he carries a difficult past as "human debris." After his crucial encounter with Wistario Afam, the series' protagonist, 598 takes a new path and founds the "Foundling" organization. Prior to these events, 598 and his group were integrated into a minor pirate faction, which had ties to the dreaded Dawn Horizon Corps. The story of 598 adds a layer of depth to this model kit.
Mobile Suit Gundam IRON-BLOODED ORPHANS: Urdr-Hunt takes place in P.D. 323 and follows the adventures of Wistario Afam. From the Radonitsa Colony on Venus, Wistario participates in the "Urdr-Hunt," a large-scale survival and combat competition that tests the best pilots and their Mobile Suits. The story, which originally debuted in a mobile application, has gained such popularity that a future animated adaptation is expected, increasing the value and interest in Gunplas like the Monkey Rodi.
HG 1/144 Gunpla Kit Details
The renowned Ippei Gyoubu is the mechanical designer behind these impressive Mobile Suits, ensuring a faithful and detailed design. The kit HG 1/144 Monkey Rodi will allow the construction of one of the two mentioned variants, offering flexibility and replayability to modelers. Multiple high-quality runner plates, a sticker sheet for final details, and a clear and concise assembly manual will be included. It is important to note that, according to preliminary information, a display base is not expected to be included with this Gunpla kit, so collectors may need to purchase one separately. The release of this model in 2025 is one of the most anticipated by the community.
Sources:
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans Urzu Hunt HG Monkey Rody (598 units) A Gunpla that can also be used as a Monkey Crab Rody | MANTANWEB. Accessed on May 27, 2025.
- モンキー・ロディ（598機）｜Mobile Suit - 機動戦士ガンダム 鉄血のオルフェンズ. Accessed on May 27, 2025.
- モンキー・クラブ・ロディ｜Mobile Suit｜機動戦士ガンダム 鉄血の…. Accessed on May 27, 2025.
- HG 1/144 Monkey Rodi (598 unit) - Release Info - Gundam Kits Collection. Accessed on May 27, 2025.
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans – Urdr-Hunt - MAHQ. Accessed on May 27, 2025.