Gundam's Crimson Lightning Returns as P-Bandai US Announces 2 Johnny Ridden Gunpla Kit Re-Releases

Bandai is bringing two of Johnny Ridden’s most recognizable Mobile Suit Gundam model kits back to Premium Bandai US, giving Gunpla builders another opportunity to add the legendary ace pilot’s crimson machines to their collections.

Johnny Ridden is one of the most famous pilots to emerge from the Mobile Suit Variations, or MSV, series of the original Mobile Suit Gundam universe, earning the nickname “The Crimson Lightning” thanks to his remarkable combat record and the distinctive red color scheme carried by his custom mobile suits.

The returning lineup includes his High Mobility Gelgoog variants in HG and Master Grade form.

Leading the reissue lineup is the HG 1/144 Johnny Ridden Custom Gelgoog, priced at $32, faithfully recreating the ace pilot’s MS-14B High Mobility Gelgoog with a combination of existing and newly designed parts.

The model reproduces Johnny Ridden’s signature deep red colors through molded plastic, while the distinctive Type B backpack has been completely recreated with newly designed components and independently movable main thrusters.

A newly sculpted rocket launcher is included with an articulated grip that allows for convincing two-handed poses, while the standard Beam Rifle, Beam Naginata and shield are also included to complete the Gelgoog’s full equipment loadout.

Collectors looking for a larger display piece can also pick up the MG 1/100 Johnny Ridden Custom Gelgoog, priced at $83 USD, which expands on the same High Mobility Gelgoog design with additional engineering and display features.

The Master Grade version also receives a newly designed Type B backpack that allows its weapons to be mounted directly onto the rear unit, with dedicated attachment points for the rocket launcher, Giant Bazooka, or Beam Rifle, while the dual thruster units can each move independently for more dynamic posing.

Its newly sculpted rocket launcher also features a movable grip for two-handed displays, while the Giant Bazooka includes new grip parts compatible with the Gelgoog Ver.2.0 hands, together with newly designed lens components and metallic stickers for the scope.

As with the HG release, the MG kit also includes the Beam Rifle, Beam Naginata and shield, allowing builders to recreate a wide variety of action poses using the kit’s impressive articulation.