P-Bandai HGUC Pale Rider (Space Type) Gunpla: Release Info & Review
A Premium Bandai exclusive release aimed at collectors. Image via P-Bandai.
The HG 1/144 RX-80PR Pale Rider (Space Type) model kit represents a fascinating case study within the Gundam plastic model (Gunpla) market. Originating from the 2014 video game Mobile Suit Gundam Side Story: Missing Link, this Mobile Suit has transcended its niche origins to become a cult product with sustained commercial viability. Its exclusive distribution through the Premium Bandai (P-Bandai) channel underscores its special status, targeting a dedicated segment of collectors and modelers. Visually, the Pale Rider merges the utilitarian silhouette of the GM line with the distinct features of a Gundam. Its most defining characteristic is the special combat system known as HADES (Hyper Animosity Detect Estimate System), an evolution of the EXAM system that pushes both the machine and its pilot to the absolute limits of their performance.
Product Information
- Price: 2,200 JPY (P-Bandai Japan) / $29.00 USD (P-Bandai USA). Note: Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer and location.
- Release Date: August 2017
- Reissue Date: May 2021 (Japan), November 2025 (USA)
- Scale: 1/144
- Size: Approx. 12.5 cm (4.9 inches)
- Series: Mobile Suit Gundam Side Story: Missing Link
- Line: High Grade Universal Century (HGUC)
- Product Type: P-Bandai Exclusive
Kit Features
This kit is a direct variant of the 2015 HGUC RX-80PR Pale Rider (Ground Heavy Equipment Type), reusing some of its molds. The base engineering provides a solid level of articulation, particularly in the legs, which achieve a wide lateral spread thanks to a double ball-joint ankle system that ensures excellent stability. The elbows also feature a double joint, allowing for a nearly 180-degree bend that facilitates dynamic combat poses.
Its design merges the utilitarian silhouette of a GM with distinct Gundam features. Image via P-Bandai.
However, the kit does exhibit some structural weaknesses. The most common issue is the weakness of the wrist ball joints, which tend to loosen and make it difficult for the hands to securely hold heavier weapons like the Giant Gatling. Knee movement is somewhat restricted by the calf thrusters, and the rear skirt armor, being a single fixed piece, limits backward leg movement.
One aspect that reveals the mold's age is its heavy reliance on color-correcting stickers. Details such as the chest vents, thrusters, and much of the shield's coloration are achieved through their use. Additionally, the kit has noticeable mold lines in areas like the head, shoulders, and legs, which require extra sanding work for a flawless finish.
Equipped with its Hyper Beam Rifle and an exclusively designed shield. Image via P-Bandai.
A key feature of this Gunpla kit is the ability to assemble the Pale Rider in either its normal state or its activated HADES mode. This is achieved through two interchangeable visors (clear green or red plastic) and two sets of body detail stickers—one in gray tones for normal mode and another in yellow for HADES mode.
Box Contents
To deliver this experience, the High Grade kit comes with everything modelers need to assemble the space variant of the Mobile Suit, including its distinctive weaponry.
Includes varied armaments like the Giant Gatling and the Hyper Beam Rifle. Image via P-Bandai.
- Parts to build the RX-80PR Pale Rider (Space Type)
- Giant Gatling: An imposing weapon, approximately 100mm (3.9 in) long, with a large ammo drum and a flexible feed belt.
- Hyper Beam Rifle: A beam rifle specifically designed for this unit.
- Shield: A shield with a simpler, smoother design for space combat compared to the ground version.
- Beam Sabers (x2): Two beam sabers with pink energy blade effects are included.
- Additional hand parts.
- Surplus Parts: Due to mold reuse, the box includes the complete parts to assemble the 90mm Bullpup Machine Gun—the main weapon of the ground version—along with its sensor sticker, making it a functional extra.
The kit includes the 90mm Bullpup Machine Gun as a functional extra part. Image via P-Bandai.
Comparative Analysis: Space vs. Ground Type
Both versions share the same core body, but their equipment differences fundamentally alter their silhouette and tactical role. The Space Type presents as a high-mobility assault unit for zero-gravity environments, featuring additional thrusters, large propellant tanks, and an arsenal centered on the close-range firepower of the Giant Gatling.
The imposing Giant Gatling is the primary weapon for its assault role. Image via P-Bandai.
Double joints in the elbows and ankles allow for highly dynamic combat poses. Image via P-Bandai.
Conversely, the Ground Heavy Equipment Type is configured as a mobile land-based artillery unit. Its 180mm cannon, leg-mounted missile launchers, and Spike Shield orient it toward long-range bombardment and heavy ground combat. It is crucial to note that while the Space Type kit includes the Ground Type's main weapon as a bonus, the Ground Type kit does not include the exclusive weaponry of the Space Type.
The RX-80PR Pale Rider
Space equipment designed for high mobility in zero gravity. Image via P-Bandai.
The Pale Rider debuted in the video game Mobile Suit Gundam Side Story: Missing Link. It is the centerpiece of the "Pale Rider Plan," a secret Earth Federation project to create a next-generation prototype MS near the end of the One Year War. Its design is an amalgamation of combat data and components from elite units like the GM Sniper II and the Gundam G04 and G05 prototypes.
Its main feature is the HADES operating system, an evolution of the EXAM system. Instead of using an external consciousness, HADES functions by forcing the pilot's own neurotransmissions, removing their natural limiters to synchronize them with the machine. When activated, the Pale Rider's visor turns red, and the MS's performance skyrockets to extraordinary levels, but at the cost of immense strain on the pilot's mind and body, potentially causing memory loss and extreme exhaustion. Within the narrative, its designated pilot is Chloe Croce.
The kit comes with two beam sabers and their energy effects. Image via P-Bandai.
When HADES activates, the visor turns red and performance increases. Image via P-Bandai.
Its arsenal is focused on short to medium-range firepower. Image via P-Bandai.
This P-Bandai kit offers a unique build with a compelling backstory. What are your thoughts on the Pale Rider's design and its HADES system? Let us know in the comments below!
Where to Buy
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For this specific kit (USA): The HG 1/144 Pale Rider (Space Type) is a Premium Bandai exclusive. Secure yours directly from P-Bandai USA.
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Sources
- HG 1/144 PALE RIDER (SPACE TYPE) | Premium Bandai USA (Accessed July 23, 2025)
- HGUC 1/144 ペイルライダー（空間戦仕様）| Premium Bandai Japan (Accessed July 23, 2025). Note: Accessing P-Bandai Japan may require a VPN, and a proxy shipping service is needed for international buyers.
- HGUC RX-80PR Pale Rider (Space Type) | Gunplapedia (Accessed July 23, 2025)
- RX-80PR Pale Rider | Gundam Wiki (Accessed July 23, 2025)
- 【レビュー】HGUC 1/144 ペイルライダー（空間戦仕様） | クスビルMoNoブログ (Accessed July 23, 2025)
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