The first kit in the HGUC line, the RX-77-2 Guncannon, set a new standard for High Grade models.
The High Grade Universal Century (HGUC) line, known in Japan as, stands as one of the most popular series of 1/144 scale Gunpla model kits. Focusing on Mobile Suits from the Universal Century timeline, this series launched in 1999, building on the foundation of the original High Grade line. It not only inherited key improvements like snap-fit assembly but also elevated the standards for detail, color separation, and articulation. Each kit delivers an impressive piece of engineering for fans and modelers.
Beyond Universal Century: The HG Line's New Frontiers
In 2009, Bandai expanded the HGUC line to include the High Grade U.C. Hard Graph sub-series, which featured kits with 1/144 scale military vehicles and soldiers in addition to Mobile Suits. This added a new layer of realism and expanded diorama options for fans of sci-fi modeling.
The "HG All Gundam Project," launched in 2010, further extended the line into alternate timelines, introducing the HGAC (After Colony), HGAW (After War), HGFC (Future Century), HGCE (Cosmic Era), and HGCC (Correct Century) series. These alternate timeline kits are distinguished by a silver stripe on the box, as opposed to the gold stripe on standard HGUC releases, allowing for easy identification.
Constant Evolution: The "Revive" and "Evolution" Projects
To celebrate the 35th anniversary of Gunpla, Bandai announced the "Revive" project in 2015. This initiative delivered complete redesigns of earlier HGUC kits, starting with the RX-77-2 Guncannon. By using modern technology, these "Revive" versions offer significantly improved detail, enhanced articulation, and modernized proportions, providing a fresh building experience for all Gunpla collectors.
In preparation for the 40th anniversary in 2020, the "Gunpla Evolution Project" began. This project showcased targeted innovations across multiple Gunpla lines. Its first release, a redesign of the MSZ-006 Zeta Gundam, focused on a specific "evolution" point, setting a new benchmark for features like articulation and transformation.
Following a reorganization of the Bandai Namco Group, reissued and future kits from September 2018 onward feature a blue Bandai logo instead of the original red. From mid-2022, the boxes also include the new Bandai Namco logo, reflecting the brand's ongoing evolution.
The Genesis of a Legacy: The 1999 HGUC Lineup
To see where it all began, let's take a closer look at the groundbreaking kits that launched the series in 1999. These initial releases were more than just model kits; they were a statement of intent from Bandai, establishing a new standard for 1/144 scale engineering. They showcased improved articulation, superior color separation, and screen accuracy, setting the stage for a Gunpla revolution.
| HGUC # | Model | Series | Yen Price | Release Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 001 | RX-77-2 'Guncannon' | Mobile Suit Gundam | ¥800 | May 1999 | The inaugural release for the HGUC line. Includes parts for the Spray Missile Launchers. |
| 002 | YMS-15 'Gyan' | Mobile Suit Gundam | ¥800 | July 1999 | The first 1/144 scale kit to feature a detachable, clear-colored effect part for its beam saber. |
| 003 | AMX-011S 'Zaku-III Custom' | Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ | ¥1,500 | August 1999 | |
| 004 | AMX-004 'Qubeley' | Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam | ¥1,500 | September 1999 | |
| 005 | MSN-00100 'Hyaku-Shiki' | Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam | ¥1,500 | October 1999 | Introduced chrome-plated parts to the line. The runners use an "undergate" system, which minimizes visible nub marks after assembly. |
| 006 | MSM-07 'Z’Gok' | Mobile Suit Gundam | ¥700 | November 1999 |
A Pivotal Year for the HGUC Line: 2000
The year 2000 marked a significant expansion for the High Grade Universal Century (HGUC) line. Bandai broadened the scope beyond the original series, releasing a diverse array of mobile suits from popular titles like Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam, Gundam ZZ, and Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory. This year was notable for introducing key engineering milestones, including the line's first transformable kit (AMX-107 Bawoo) and its first "Gundam-type" mobile suit (RX-78GP01), solidifying the series' reputation for quality and innovation.
| HGUC # | Model | Series | Yen Price | Release Date | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 007 | RX-75 'Guntank' | Mobile Suit Gundam | ¥800 | 2000 January | This was the first kit in the series released without a decal sheet. |
008
|
MSM-03 'Gogg' | Mobile Suit Gundam | ¥800 | 2000 March | |
009
|
MS-07B 'Gouf' | Mobile Suit Gundam | ¥800 | 2000 April | |
010
|
RMS-099 'Rick Dias' | Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam | ¥1,200 | 2000 June | |
011
|
AMX-004-2 'Qubeley Mk-II' | Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ | ¥1,500 | 2000 June | A color variation of the previously released HGUC-004 Qubeley. |
012
|
RMS-106 'Hi-Zack' | Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam | ¥1,000 | 2000 July | This model is compatible with the "Weapons for Mobile Suit" set from the original 1985 Zeta Gundam Gunpla line. Later production runs feature a modified pelvis piece (B7) with a rectangular slot for an Action Base 2. |
013
|
RX-78GP01 'Gundam GP01' | Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory | ¥1,200 | 2000 August | Notably the first "Gundam" type mobile suit in the HGUC line. The kit includes a non-transformable FF-XII Core Fighter II and the 90mm machine gun, as featured in episodes 2 and 3 of the OVA. |
014
|
AMX-011 'Zaku-III' | Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ | ¥1,500 | 2000 September | Features recolored parts and variations from the HGUC-003 Zaku-III Custom. |
015
|
AMX-107 'Bawoo' | Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ | ¥1,200 | 2000 September | Marked the debut of a transformable and separable model kit in the HGUC lineup. |
016
|
MS-14F 'Gelgoog Marine' | Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory | ¥1,200 | 2000 October | |
017
|
MS-09F 'Dom Tropen' | Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory | ¥1,500 | 2000 November | |
018
|
RX-78GP01Fb 'Gundam GP01Fb' | Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory | ¥1,500 | 2000 December | A parts variation of the HGUC-013 kit. It comes with a non-transformable FF-XII-Fb Core Fighter II Full Burnern. |
The HGUC line has a rich history of innovation, from its first kits in 1999 to the modern "Revive" project. Which era of HGUC is your favorite, and what Mobile Suit would you like to see get a "Revive" version next? Let us know in the comments below!
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Sources
- Gunpla Fandom Wiki - HGUC (Accessed June 17, 2025)
- Gundam Fandom Wiki - HGUC (Accessed June 17, 2025)
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