Hobby Town is hosting the Gunpla Builder World Cup Tournament on Aug. 16, from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. at 935 Bragg Boulevard. General admission is free. Builders can share their models and register in the store. The winner of the tournament will receive a trophy and will be submitted to Bandai, a Japanese toy manufacturer with their headquarters in Tokyo.
Gunpla or Gundam plastic models are popular due to the combination of factors such as the enduring appeal of the Gundam franchise, the community aspect of model building, and the low cost and accessibility of entry-level kits. The Gundam series has complex storylines, diverse mobile suit designs, and exploration of real-world themes. Gunpla allows fans to connect with the universe by building and customizing their own models, creating a sense of community among the builders.
Gunpla is a portmanteau of Gundam plastic models. The models consist of pre-colored parts that are assembled without the need for glue, making them accessible to a wide range of enthusiasts from beginners to seasoned modelers. It offers multiple options for customization, such as simple panel lining to intricate painting and weathering techniques.
Gundam is a franchise created by Yoshiyuki Tomino, and features a variety of mobile suits with unique designs and capabilities. These mobile suits are the focal point of Gunpla.
Gundam is a highly influential and expansive franchise in the realm of anime known for its “real robot” genre and exploration of war, politics, human relationships through the lens of giant, piloted robots (mobile suits). The themes are representative of different timelines, universes, and flawed and imperfect choices.
Classic anime that influences Gunpla are Witch of Mercury, Iron-Blooded Orphans, Gundam, Requiem for Vengeance, The Endless Waltz, Mobile Suits Gundam 00, and Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin.
Model building can be excellent for the brain, and Gunpla models are no exception.
Build and submit a model in the Gumpla Builders World Cup Tournament. Attend the event and view the creativity of the model builders. Judges will choose the model for submission to Bandai, and the winner will receive a trophy. All participants take home swag from Bandai and meet like-minded builders.