Johnny Ridden’s Iconic Crimson Mobile Suits Return as Bandai Confirms 3 Exclusive Gunpla Re-Releases
Bandai is bringing three of Johnny Ridden’s most recognizable Mobile Suit Gundam model kits back, 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 both High Mobility Gelgoog variants in HG and Master Grade form, alongside the Master Grade Johnny Ridden Zaku II that depicts the mobile suit he piloted before upgrading to the R-2 type Zaku in the Mobile Suit Gundam MSV-R storyline.
Leading the reissue lineup is the HG 1/144 Johnny Ridden Custom Gelgoog, priced at ¥2,640 (approx. $18 USD / £13 GBP), 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 ¥6,930 (approx. $47 USD / £34 GBP), 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.
Completing the reissue wave is the MG 1/100 Johnny Ridden Custom Zaku II, priced at ¥4,730 (approx. $32 USD / £24 GBP), based on the version featured in Mobile Suit Gundam MSV-R before the pilot transitioned to his later high-performance machines.
Built using the acclaimed MG Ver.2.0 frame, the kit faithfully recreates Johnny Ridden’s signature red color scheme through molded plastic while also including exclusive waterslide decals featuring his personal insignia and custom markings.
The Zaku II comes equipped with a Zaku Machine Gun, Zaku Bazooka and Heat Hawk, making it an excellent companion piece alongside the later Gelgoog releases and allowing builders to showcase Johnny Ridden’s evolving career as one of the Principality of Zeon’s elite pilots.
Pre-orders for all three Gunpla kits are now open via Premium Bandai, while stocks last.
The HG and MG Johnny Ridden Custom Gelgoog kits are scheduled to begin shipping in September 2026, while the MG Johnny Ridden Custom Zaku II is expected to follow in November 2026.
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