Char’s Zaku II Takes On Amuro’s RX-78-2 in Gundam’s New Official Gashapon Collection
Image by Charlotte DavisBandai has unveiled a new Gundam capsule figure collection that recreates the rivalry between Amuro Ray and Char Aznable through a series of miniature battle scenes and cockpit displays.
“CAPSULEVERSE Mobile Suit Gundam 01” marks the debut of Bandai’s latest Gashapon figure series “CAPSULEVERSE”, which will also include collections based on other anime, including ONE PIECE.
Mobile Suit Gundam first aired in Japan in 1979 and follows Amuro Ray, a teenage civilian who becomes the pilot of the Earth Federation’s experimental RX-78-2 Gundam during the devastating One Year War.
One of his greatest opponents is Char Aznable, a skilled pilot serving the Principality of Zeon whose customized red Zaku II and mysterious identity make him a central figure throughout the original series.
The CAPSULEVERSE series is built around transparent capsules measuring approximately 9 cm in diameter, with miniature figures positioned against detailed sculpted backgrounds.
Unlike conventional Gashapon toys that are removed from their packaging, the capsules themselves serve as display cases, with each scene resting on a small black base.
The figures are sculpted to appear as though they are emerging from their backgrounds, adding depth to the miniature displays.
The debut Gundam collection includes four designs featuring the rival pilots and their Mobile Suits from the original anime:
- “RX-78-2 Gundam”
Amuro Ray’s Gundam is depicted in a combat pose with its beam rifle and red shield, emerging from a textured background that recreates the appearance of a battlefield.
- “Char’s Zaku II”
Char Aznable’s customized red Zaku II appears with its Heat Hawk weapon, featuring the Mobile Suit’s spiked shoulder armour and battle-ready stance.
- “Amuro Ray”
Amuro is shown seated inside the Gundam’s cockpit, wearing his white pilot helmet and operating the machine’s controls, with additional sculpted details surrounding the pilot’s seat.
- “Char Aznable”
Char appears inside the cockpit of his Zaku II, wearing his red Zeon uniform and distinctive helmet, with the surrounding controls reproduced as part of the miniature scene.
One of the collection’s main attractions is the ability to position two capsules back-to-back, allowing collectors to create larger displays representing the battles between Amuro and Char.
Pairing the RX-78-2 Gundam with Char’s Zaku II creates a confrontation between the opposing Mobile Suits, with the two cockpit designs providing an alternative way to display their pilots.
Bandai has continued experimenting with different Gundam Gashapon formats during 2026, including the EXCEED MODEL TRINITY RX-78-2 Gundam collection, which proved so popular that its exclusive online edition sold out within around an hour of opening for pre-orders.
Image by Charlotte DavisThat series introduced a three-part design that allows collectors to assemble a detailed Gundam bust measuring approximately 20 cm tall, with an optional lighting system and mechanical parts visible beneath its armour.
Bandai also previously released miniature versions of its ROBOT SPIRITS action figures, recreating the original figures and their packaging as small collectibles inspired by the premium action figure range.
The “CAPSULEVERSE Mobile Suit Gundam 01” collection is scheduled to begin its general rollout in Gashapon machines across Japan during the fifth week of October 2026, with each capsule priced at ¥800 (approximately $5 / £4).
Advance sales began on October 9 at selected Gashapon Bandai Official Shops and the Gashapon Official Shop in Asakusa, ahead of the wider release.
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