The Gunpla modeling universe expands once again with the exciting announcement of the HG 1/144 Gundam Zilius, the imposing mobile suit that will star in the new manga series Mobile Suit Gundam Eight. This release is particularly significant for fans and collectors, as it is a Premium Bandai (P-Bandai) exclusive, highlighting its unique and coveted nature. The presentation of this Gundam model kit as a completely new kit marks the first time we can get our hands on a three-dimensional representation of the central machine of this narrative, which unfolds in an intriguing and unprecedented alternate universe.
A detailed close-up of the Gundam Zilius, appreciating its features.
Product Information: HG 1/144 Gundam Zilius P-Bandai
The model in question is the HG 1/144 Gundam Zilius. It is important to note that, although in some Premium Bandai communications for the Asian market it has appeared under the name "Gundam Zirius," the "Zilius" designation has been more consistent. This Gunpla kit belongs to the prestigious High Grade (HG) line from Bandai Spirits, presented in the popular 1/144 scale.
- Price: 2,970 Japanese Yen (tax included).
- Release Date: Scheduled for July 2025.
- Scale: 1/144.
- Origin Series: Mobile Suit Gundam Eight.
- Gunpla Line: High Grade (HG).
- Availability: Exclusive to Premium Bandai and its Hobby Online Shop.
- Product Type: P-Bandai Exclusive.
The Gundam Zilius shown from its front and rear angles, revealing its complete design.
Model Features and Kit Contents of the Gundam Zilius
The HG 1/144 Gundam Zilius is distinguished by an entirely new mold, ensuring a faithful and detailed reproduction of the "elegant and powerful" design conceived by artist Kanekotsu for the Mobile Suit Gundam Eight series. As an added value for collectors, Kanekotsu himself has created original illustrations that will adorn the full-color packaging of this new Gundam, enhancing its appeal.
This Gundam model kit promises a wide range of motion and advanced articulation, thanks to the implementation of mobile axes and multiple ball joints. The flexibility of the back unit is particularly noteworthy. A distinctive feature is the ability to remove parts of the outer armor to reveal a "lightly armored form," suggesting a "dual-phase combat readiness" for the mecha. Despite its intricate and detailed design, assembly is intended to be simple and accessible, requiring no adhesives, a hallmark of Gunpla quality.
Gundam Zilius in a combat pose, wielding its characteristic beam sabers.
Equipped with its beam rifle, the Gundam Zilius is shown ready for engagement.
The contents of the HG Gundam Zilius kit include:
- Parts to assemble the HG 1/144 Gundam Zilius.
- One Beam Rifle.
- Two Beam Sabers.
- One Shield.
Promotional information does not explicitly mention stickers or water decals. It is possible that the kit relies on color separation by parts, a common technique in Bandai model kits, or that separate decal releases are planned for even greater customization of this Gundam model kit.
The Gundam Zilius captured in a dynamic combat pose, demonstrating its agility.
Showcasing another facet of its combat capability, the Gundam Zilius in a new pose.
Gundam Zilius in Mobile Suit Gundam Eight: A New Alternate Universe
Mobile Suit Gundam Eight is presented as the first completely original alternate universe series to debut in the prestigious Monthly Gundam Ace magazine. Announced in September 2021, its serialization began in the August 2025 issue of the magazine (on sale June 26, 2025). To complement the experience, a prequel novel written by Hajime Kamoshida was included in the July 2025 issue of Gundam Ace, offering a first glimpse into this new Gundam and its world.
The creative team behind this new saga is composed of renowned figures in the Gundam universe: Hajime Kamoshida (original story, known for Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans), Shuei Takagi (art, Mobile Suit Gundam: Battle Operation Code Fairy), and Kanekotsu (mecha design, Gundam Try Age).
The narrative of Mobile Suit Gundam Eight transports us to a post-apocalyptic Earth in the year 2030 of a new era called "Koreki" (恒歴). With only 258 human survivors, the story promises to explore deep political and emotional themes, with an anticipated dark and mature tone, comparable in direction to Mobile Suit Gundam 00 but set in a devastated world. Gundam news about this series has generated great anticipation among franchise followers.
The Gundam Zilius stripped of its armament, allowing appreciation of its base structure from the front and back.
Gundam Zilius: The Last Bastion in a Dying World
The Gundam Zilius, masterfully designed by Kanekotsu, is the main mobile suit at the center of this grim narrative. Described as a "heavily armored machine built to withstand a dying world," it is suggested that this P-Bandai Gundam could be the last operational Gundam in existence, making it a symbol of the struggle for survival. Fans of Gundam collectibles and Gundam figures will undoubtedly appreciate the symbolic weight and unique design of this mobile suit.
An overview of all components included in the Gundam Zilius model kit box.
Sources
- P-Bandai: HG 1/144 Gundam Zilius - Release Info | Gundam Kits Collection, Accessed May 29, 2025
- It's Official, Mobile Suit Gundam Just Announced a New Series and It Looks Gorgeous | ScreenRant, Accessed May 29, 2025
- HG 1/144 GUNDAM ZIRIUS [Aug 2025 Delivery] | PREMIUM BANDAI Singapore, Accessed May 29, 2025
- 「HG ガンダムジリウス」本日12時より予約スタート！月刊ガンダム ... | GUNDAM.INFO, Accessed May 29, 2025
- New GUNDAM Manga Series Titled GUNDAM EIGHT Is Coming Soon | AnimeMojo.com, Accessed May 29, 2025