SerpApi.Org
The early success of the Mobile Suit Gundamfranchise and its merchandise arm saw countless collectibles spin out of this popularity. Now, some mecha derived from one of these spinoffs are mobilizing once more with three re-releases.
The latest Gundam plastic model kits to come back onto the market are based on the mobile suits piloted by Johnny Ridden. These include two versions of perhaps his most notable mech, as well as his own take on the Zaku II. Shipping out later this year, the model kits are now available to order while supplies last.
Johnny Ridden Rides Again in Bandai's New Gundam Model Kit Re-Releases
First up among the re-releases is the HG 1/144 Johnny Ridden Custom Gelgoog, which is based on Johnny Ridden's High Mobility Gelgoog mobile suit. Featuring two sets of interchangeable hands, the weapons include a Beam Rifle, a shield and a Beam Naginata, perfect for posing in battle sequences. There's also a rocket launcher and a gun, allowing the Gelgoog to take on enemies at both close and long range.
This kit will cost around US$18, but for almost $50, fans can opt for the larger, more detailed MG 1/100 Johnny Ridden Custom Gelgoog. This Master Grade model kit is very similar to the more inexpensive iteration, but with a newly designed Type-B backpack that can store its weapons. There are also independently moving rear thrusters on this backpack and a giant bazooka as part of the arsenal, along with bigger versions of the weapons seen on the High Grade model kit.
The third re-release is the MG 1/100 Johnny Ridden Custom Zaku II, which will come in at around US$32. The Zaku II was the mobile suit Johnny Ridden used before transitioning to the Gelgoog, and the corresponding model kit is the MG Ver.2.0. frame. Besides the red color scheme, there are also water slide decals for Johnny's personal insignia. The weapons include a Heat Hawk, a Zaku Machine Gun and a Zaku Bazooka, with the exterior armor adding a spiked shoulder pad and a shield to the arms.
These kits can now be ordered through the Premium Bandai website in Japan, but supplies are expected to be limited. Both versions of the Gelgoog will ship in September 2026, whereas the Zaku II will ship in November.
Johnny Ridden debuted in Mobile Suit Gundam: MSV -- an expansion of sorts that began in 1983 and built upon the classic Universal Century timeline. This manifested in new lore, new characters and new mecha, many of which have since received their own unique collectibles.
