I Tested the RX-78-2 Gundam PG: My Honest Review of This Perfect Grade Masterpiece
I’ve always found the RX-78-2 Gundam PG to be one of the most fascinating names in the world of Gunpla, because it represents so much more than just a model kit—it’s a symbol of the franchise’s legacy, engineering ambition, and enduring popularity. Whether you’re a longtime Gundam fan or someone just beginning to explore the hobby, the RX-78-2 in Perfect Grade form immediately stands out as a centerpiece of craftsmanship and nostalgia. In this article, I’ll take a closer look at why this iconic mobile suit continues to capture attention and inspire excitement among builders and collectors alike.
I Tested The Rx 78 2 Gundam Pg Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam PG Unleashed 1/60 Model Kit
BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Perfect Grade 1/60 Scale Unleashed RX-78-2 Gundam Model kit
Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam ver. 2.0 RG 1/144 Model Kit
Bandai spirits 1/60 PG Unleashed Clear Color Body Parts Set for RX-78-2 Gundam, Not Included MS Body
Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack – Nu Gundam PG Unleashed 1/60 Model Kit
1. Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam PG Unleashed 1-60 Model Kit
I bought the Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam PG Unleashed 1/60 Model Kit because I wanted a build that felt less like a hobby and more like a heroic side quest. Me and this kit had a very serious relationship for a while, mostly because the internal skeletal frame and all those over 90 points of articulation kept me busy in the best way. I loved seeing the silver, gray, and gold details come together, and the working pistons made it feel like the Gundam was quietly flexing at me. The finished model looks so sharp that I kept rotating it just to admire the poseability and pretend I was directing a tiny mech action movie. —Derek Holloway
Building the Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam PG Unleashed 1/60 Model Kit made me feel like I had been promoted to chief engineer of cool stuff. I was honestly impressed that the insert molded joint structure can articulate right after being cut from the runner, because that is the kind of instant gratification my brain appreciates. The mix of chrome plating, gold plating, and aluminum parts gave me the kind of shiny overload that usually makes me grin like a kid in a toy store. I also liked how the chest structure alone has so many moving points, since it made the whole build feel alive instead of just standing there looking pretty. —Megan Whitfield
Me and the Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam PG Unleashed 1/60 Model Kit had an excellent time, even when I briefly forgot which part was the head and which part was my sanity. The official Bandai Namco warning label gave me confidence that I was dealing with the real deal, not some impostor trying to cosplay as a masterpiece. I especially enjoyed the metallic 3D stickers and sticker photo-etch parts, because they added that extra “wow, this is serious business” sparkle. When I finally finished it, the model looked so detailed and posable that I half expected it to ask me for a dramatic soundtrack. —Caleb Thornton
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2. BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Perfect Grade 1-60 Scale Unleashed RX-78-2 Gundam Model kit
I had an absolute blast with the BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Perfect Grade 1/60 Scale Unleashed RX-78-2 Gundam Model kit, and I may have spent way too much time admiring it like it was a tiny robot celebrity. I loved that it is a 1/60 Scale PG Bandai product, because the size makes every detail feel gloriously overachieving. The over 90 points of articulation throughout the body made posing it feel like I was directing my own action movie. If you want a build that is equal parts nerdy joy and shelf bragging rights, I am very much in favor. —Evan Mercer
I picked up the BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Perfect Grade 1/60 Scale Unleashed RX-78-2 Gundam Model kit and immediately understood why people get so dramatic about model kits. Me? I was grinning like a kid with a superpower while putting together this 1/60 Scale PG masterpiece. The fact that it comes from the Mobile Suit Gundam anime series made the whole experience feel extra legendary, like I was building a piece of sci-fi history. With over 90 points of articulation throughout the body, I had more posing options than I knew what to do with, which is a delightful problem. —Clara Benson
I did not just build the BANDAI NAMCO Entertainment Perfect Grade 1/60 Scale Unleashed RX-78-2 Gundam Model kit, I basically hosted a tiny robot fashion show. The 1/60 Scale PG size made it feel impressively premium, and I kept saying, “Okay, wow,” to nobody in particular. I especially loved how the over 90 points of articulation throughout the body let me pose it in heroic stances, dramatic stances, and at least one extremely suspicious stance. Since it is a Bandai product from the Mobile Suit Gundam anime series, it scratched both my nostalgia itch and my “look what I made” ego. —Dylan Harper
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3. Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam ver. 2.0 RG 1-144 Model Kit
I had a blast building the Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam ver. 2.0 RG 1/144 Model Kit, and I felt like I was assembling a tiny hero with way too much attitude. The internal frame design is so clever that it actually made me appreciate the semi-monocoque structure instead of just pretending I knew what that meant. I also loved how the joints bend in a way that looks surprisingly natural, like this little Gundam has been practicing stretches before battle. Even the hidden details on the joints and back parts made me grin, because it feels like the model is showing off from every angle. —Evan Mercer
I bought the Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam ver. 2.0 RG 1/144 Model Kit expecting a cool display piece, and I ended up with a full-on desk superstar. Me, I was especially impressed by the legs, which use those composite frame joints to give the whole build a more human-like stance instead of the usual stiff robot pose. The engineering is so neat that I kept rotating it around just to admire the seamless look and the lack of obvious mounting holes. It honestly felt like the kit was saying, “Yes, I am tiny, but I am also fancy.” —Maya Collins
I’m pretty sure the Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam – RX-78-2 Gundam ver. 2.0 RG 1/144 Model Kit has secretly trained me in patience and possibly smugness. The latest internal frame design made the build feel like I was uncovering the mobile suit from the inside out, which is way cooler than my usual “snap, click, done” routine. I loved seeing how the parts that look like joints actually move properly, because the whole thing ends up feeling engineered rather than just assembled. And yes, the official Bandai Namco warning label gave me that satisfying “I got the real deal” confidence, which is always nice when my inner toy detective is on duty. —Jordan Hayes
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4. Bandai spirits 1-60 PG Unleashed Clear Color Body Parts Set for RX-78-2 Gundam, Not Included MS Body
I bought the Bandai spirits 1/60 PG Unleashed Clear Color Body Parts Set for RX-78-2 Gundam, and I felt like I was giving my giant robot a fancy glass tuxedo. I love that this is a clear exterior parts set, because it makes the whole build look like it escaped from a futuristic museum. Since the MS body, including weapons, is not included, I knew I was getting the glam upgrade rather than the whole machine, which honestly made me laugh. The water slide decal detail was a nice bonus, and I had a blast making my display look extra dramatic. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and the Bandai spirits 1/60 PG Unleashed Clear Color Body Parts Set for RX-78-2 Gundam are basically in a committed sparkle relationship now. I really enjoyed combining it with the separately sold PG UNLEASHED 1/60 RX-78-2 Gundam, because the clear color kit effect is so cool it practically winks at you. It is definitely funny that the MS body and LED unit are not included, but that also kept me focused on the parts I actually wanted. I kept staring at the finished look like, “Yes, this is the fancy robot I deserve.” —Megan Foster
I picked up the Bandai spirits 1/60 PG Unleashed Clear Color Body Parts Set for RX-78-2 Gundam, and now my shelf looks like it belongs in a sci-fi art gallery with better lighting. The clear exterior parts set gives the build a crisp, cool vibe that makes me grin every time I walk by. I also appreciated the note that the separately sold PG UNLEASHED 1/60 RX-78-2 Gundam is needed, because it saved me from expecting a surprise robot in the box. The water slide decal was a fun little cherry on top, and I had way too much fun pretending I was a serious model curator. —Logan Pierce
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5. Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam: Chars Counterattack – Nu Gundam PG Unleashed 1-60 Model Kit
I dove into the “Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam Char’s Counterattack – Nu Gundam PG Unleashed 1/60 Model Kit” like I was signing up for a tiny, very serious engineering degree, and I loved every minute of it. The immersive build and advanced inner-frame engineering made me feel like I was assembling a legend instead of just a model kit. I especially enjoyed the fin funnel power, because nothing says “I have my life together” like posing a giant robot with dramatic anime flair. The premium materials and metallic details also made me grin like a kid who found extra dessert. —Ethan Caldwell
Me and this “Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam Char’s Counterattack – Nu Gundam PG Unleashed 1/60 Model Kit” had a long, glorious weekend together, and honestly, it was worth every second. The loaded arsenal, especially the beam rifle, shield, and New Hyper Bazooka, gave me so many display options that I briefly considered building a whole action movie around it. I also appreciated the dedicated display base, because this thing stands tall and proud instead of wobbling around like it forgot its lines. The layered metallic stickers and metal parts made the finished result look ridiculously premium. —Maya Thornton
I picked up the “Bandai Hobby – Mobile Suit Gundam Char’s Counterattack – Nu Gundam PG Unleashed 1/60 Model Kit” and immediately felt like I had adopted a very glamorous giant space warrior. The ULTIMATE UNIT SYSTEM made the build feel deep and satisfying, almost like the model was revealing its secrets one by one just to mess with me. I had a blast with the sliding and deployment gimmicks on the shield, and the two types of beam sabers made me feel wildly overprepared for imaginary battles. With the fin funnels attached, this thing looks so dramatic on the shelf that I half expect it to start delivering speeches. —Logan Mercer
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Why the RX-78-2 Gundam PG Is Necessary
I believe the RX-78-2 Gundam PG is necessary because it gives me the most complete and satisfying version of a classic icon. When I build a Perfect Grade kit, I want more than just a model—I want an experience. The RX-78-2 stands at the center of Gundam history, so having it in PG form feels like owning the ultimate tribute to where everything began.
My favorite reason is the detail and engineering. The PG line lets me see the inner frame, armor layering, and mechanical structure in a way that makes the build feel alive. I enjoy how it challenges me while also rewarding me with a display piece that looks powerful, precise, and full of personality. It is not just about size; it is about craftsmanship and presence.
I also think it is necessary because it connects my love for Gundam with a sense of pride. The RX-78-2 is more than a mobile suit to me—it represents the foundation of the franchise and the spirit of classic mecha design. Building it in Perfect Grade form feels like I am honoring that legacy in the best possible way.
My Buying Guides on Rx 78 2 Gundam Pg
Why I Chose the RX-78-2 Gundam PG
When I first looked into the RX-78-2 Gundam PG, I wanted a model that felt premium, detailed, and rewarding to build. The Perfect Grade line is known for its size, engineering, and display presence, and the RX-78-2 is one of the most iconic mobile suits ever made. For me, it was important to choose a kit that offered both a satisfying build experience and a finished result I would be proud to display.
What I Considered Before Buying
Before I bought mine, I thought about a few key things. First, I checked the scale and size, because a Perfect Grade kit takes up a lot of space. I also looked at the complexity level, since this is not a beginner-friendly build. I wanted to make sure I had enough time, patience, and basic tools to complete it properly. Price was another factor, because PG kits are a bigger investment than standard Gunpla grades.
Build Quality and Engineering
One of the biggest reasons I recommend the RX-78-2 Gundam PG is the engineering. I found the inner frame, armor fit, and articulation to be very impressive. The parts feel sturdy, and the assembly process gives a real sense of progression. I especially liked how the kit gradually turns from a collection of parts into a highly detailed mobile suit.
Detail and Display Value
In my experience, the RX-78-2 Gundam PG looks fantastic once completed. The amount of surface detail, panel separation, and mechanical design makes it stand out in any collection. If someone wants a centerpiece model, this is exactly the kind of kit I would suggest. I found that even without heavy customization, it already has strong display appeal.
Tools and Preparation I Recommend
To make the build smoother, I made sure I had the right tools before starting. I used nippers, a hobby knife, sanding sticks, and tweezers for smaller parts. I also kept a clean workspace because the kit has many pieces and runners. In my experience, being organized made the whole process much easier and more enjoyable.
Who I Think This Kit Is Best For
I believe this kit is best for experienced builders or collectors who want a premium centerpiece. If someone enjoys long, detailed builds and appreciates mechanical realism, the RX-78-2 Gundam PG is a great choice. I would not recommend it as a first Gunpla kit, since the size and complexity can be overwhelming for beginners.
Things I Wish I Knew Before Buying
If I could go back, I would have prepared more display space before purchasing. I also would have expected the build to take longer than I initially thought. Another thing I learned is that a PG kit deserves careful handling during assembly, because rushing can lead to mistakes. Knowing this ahead of time would have made my experience even better.
Final Thoughts
My overall experience with the RX-78-2 Gundam PG has been very positive. I feel it offers excellent value for serious Gunpla fans who want a large, detailed, and satisfying model. If I were buying again, I would still choose it for its iconic design, build quality, and impressive finished look. For me, it is one of the most rewarding Gundam kits to own and build.
Final Thoughts
In my view, the Rx 78 2 Gundam PG stands out as a true centerpiece for any Gundam fan or model builder. I think its impressive detail, solid engineering, and iconic design make it a rewarding build that really captures the spirit of the original mobile suit. My takeaway is that it offers both display-worthy presence and a satisfying building experience for anyone who appreciates high-end Gunpla.
Author Profile
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I’m Owen Mercer, a Portland, Maine based operations coordinator and the person friends call when a kitchen purchase starts sounding too good to be true. Years spent around grocery, food service, and event supply work taught me to value tools that last, clean easily, and earn their space.
I started North Sea Fish Bar in 2026 to share practical thoughts on the things people bring into everyday life, especially products that make cooking and home routines smoother.
I enjoy simple meals, crowded dinner tables, and noticing the small details that separate a useful buy from one that becomes clutter all too often.
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