Complete Guide to Ichiban Kuji Gundam Series | Scheduled for Release in 2025 and Historical Popular Figure Rankings

What is the Ichiban Kuji Gundam Series?

The Ichiban Kuji Gundam Series is a particularly popular collection line within the "Ichiban Kuji" developed by Bandai Spirits. It combines the long history of the "Mobile Suit Gundam" series, which began in 1979, with the high-quality figure production technology of Ichiban Kuji, making it a must-see product line for Gundam fans.

Unlike Gunpla, the Gundam figures from Ichiban Kuji are provided as completed products, allowing fans to enjoy intricate designs without the hassle of assembly. From the A prize to lower-tier prizes, each prize features mobile suit figures and character goods, making it an attractive option to challenge for around 700 to 1,000 yen per attempt. The Last One Prize often includes special color or limited edition figures, which are elements that collectors cannot overlook.

The biggest feature of the Ichiban Kuji Gundam Series is its exquisite sculpting and beautiful coloring. It offers a different charm compared to Gunpla series like HGUC, RG, and MG, boasting a high level of completion specialized for display, even though the range of motion is limited. The lineup covers a wide range of Gundam works, from the latest "Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury" to the Universal Century series and the SEED series, designed to be enjoyable for both new fans and veteran collectors. Multiple Gundam series are released as Ichiban Kuji every year, making it a popular content that generates buzz among fans each time.

Gundam Series Scheduled for Release in 2025

The Ichiban Kuji Gundam Series for 2025 is expected to feature a diverse lineup centered around products commemorating the release of the movie "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom," as well as the Universal Century series and other popular works. Since information about the scheduled releases will be updated regularly, it is recommended to check the official website and Gundam Base information periodically.

Related to Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom

In commemoration of the release of the movie "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom," multiple SEED-related Ichiban Kuji products are expected to be launched in 2025. Major prizes are anticipated to include a newly sculpted figure of the Strike Freedom Gundam, a special color version of the Destiny Gundam, and character figures of Kira Yamato and Aslan Zara.

The A prize will feature a premium figure of a new type of mobile suit appearing in the movie, and the Last One Prize is likely to include limited editions using metallic colors or clear parts. The release period is expected to be from spring to summer around the movie's release, making it a series that SEED fans cannot miss. Past SEED series Ichiban Kuji have always been highly popular, with many stores selling out immediately on release day, so early information gathering and purchase planning are crucial. It is also anticipated that the market price in the secondary distribution market will soar in conjunction with the movie's success.

UNIVERSAL CENTURY SAGA Series

For fans of the Universal Century series, an Ichiban Kuji titled "UNIVERSAL CENTURY SAGA" is also planned to continue in 2025. A lineup featuring iconic machines from the First Gundam to Char's Counterattack, such as the ν Gundam, Sazabi, Zong, and Gundam Mk-II, is expected.

Particularly noteworthy is the A prize, the ν Gundam figure, which is expected to feature a deployable fin funnel gimmick and precise painting. The B prize will include popular mobile suits such as the Sazabi and Char's Zaku, while the C prize and below will offer variations of mass-produced units like the Jim and Zaku. The Universal Century series enjoys support from a wide range of Gundam fans and boasts stable popularity, so congestion is expected on the release day.

Other Notable Series in 2025

In response to the popularity of "Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury," there is a possibility of additional series being released in 2025. New figures of mobile suits that appeared in the series, such as the Aerial and Gundam Schwalbe, as well as character goods for Suletta and Miorine, are anticipated.

Additionally, new lottery prizes for the "Gundam Build Series" and "Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans" are being considered, with the possibility of popular mobile suits like Barbatos and Kimaris making a return. Since 2025 marks the 45th anniversary of the "Mobile Suit Gundam" franchise, it is quite possible that a special series collecting historical main mobile suits will be introduced as a commemorative project. It is important to regularly check for updates while waiting for official announcements.

Ranking of Popular Gundam Series

The Gundam series of lottery prizes has seen numerous works released over the years. Here, we present a ranking of historical Gundam series that are particularly popular among fans and are traded at high prices in the secondary market.

1st Place: Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury

The lottery for "Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury," which was released from 2023 to 2024, gained overwhelming popularity as a new generation Gundam. The protagonist's mobile suit, Aerial, was featured as the A prize with a highly detailed figure, which became a topic of discussion due to its high quality.

The B prize, Gundam Schwalbe, also features intricate details and can be posed to recreate impressive scenes from the series. The Last One prize includes a clear color Aerial using transparent parts, which has become a popular item still traded at high prices today. Character goods for Suletta and Miorine are also abundant, garnering support not only from mobile suit fans but also from character enthusiasts. At the time of release, some stores had lines forming before opening due to its popularity, and it continues to be traded at high prices on Mercari and Yahoo Auctions.

2nd Place: Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Series

The lottery for "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED" and "SEED DESTINY" is a classic popular series that has been released multiple times. Figures of main mobile suits such as Strike Freedom Gundam, Destiny Gundam, and Freedom Gundam receive tremendous support from fans of all generations.

In particular, the "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED" series released in 2020 featured the A prize, Strike Freedom Gundam, equipped with deployable wings, which was praised for its high level of completion. Figures and goods of popular characters like Kira Yamato, Athrun Zala, and Lacus Clyne were also abundantly available, appealing to a wide fan base. The lottery for the SEED series remains popular even after time has passed since its release, and it is not uncommon for items to be traded at two to three times their original price in the secondary market.

3rd Place: Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway's Flash

The lottery "Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway's Flash" was launched in conjunction with the film's release and received high praise as a product that conveys the new charm of the Universal Century series. The A prize, the Ξ (Qusai) Gundam, features a beautifully recreated complex silhouette, making it a hot topic among collectors.

The B prize, Penelope, is characterized by its impressive design that includes a large flight unit, resulting in a display-worthy finish. Coupled with the film's success, it was difficult to obtain at the time of release, and it remains a highly popular series even now. In particular, the special color Ξ Gundam for the Last One prize is highly rare and is traded at a premium price. With the release of the film's sequel, it is expected that the value of related products will continue to rise.

Other Popular Series

Ranked 4th is the "Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack" series. This series, featuring the ν Gundam and Sazabi, iconic machines representing the Universal Century, is loved across generations. In particular, the A prize ν Gundam's fin funnel deployment gimmick is highly regarded as a technical challenge.

5th place goes to the "Mobile Suit Gundam UC (Unicorn)" series. It includes figures that recreate the Unicorn Gundam's Destroy Mode and Unicorn Mode, as well as the beautifully armored Banshee, capturing the hearts of fans. The use of transparent parts that mimic the special Psycho Frame illumination is a reason for its popularity.

The "Mobile Suit Gundam 00" series ranks 6th. The futuristic designs of mobile suits like the Double O Raiser and Quanta possess a different charm from traditional Gundams, attracting a new fan base. The inclusion of clear red parts that recreate the Trans-Am mode was also well received.

7th place is the "Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans" series. The figure equipped with the distinctive large sword and katana of the Gundam Barbatos Lupus Rex gained popularity due to its voluminous design. Character goods featuring characters like Mikazuki Augus and Orga Itsuka are also abundant, receiving strong support from fans of the story.

Popular Figure and Prize Rankings

The Ichiban Kuji Gundam series offers a variety of prizes from A to G. Here, we introduce particularly popular figures and prizes that hold collection value.

A Prize and Last One Prize Popular Figures

The A prize is set as the highest prize in the Ichiban Kuji, featuring the most elaborate and large figures. In the Gundam series, main units such as the Strike Freedom Gundam, ν Gundam, Ξ Gundam, and Aerial often appear as A prizes, boasting a level of quality that rivals the ROBOT Spirits and METAL BUILD series.

Particularly popular are the A prize figures with rich gimmicks. For example, the ν Gundam's fin funnel deployment, the Strike Freedom's wing deployment, and the Ξ Gundam's missile pod recreation are highly praised for their ability to replicate impressive scenes from the series. With sizes ranging from about 15cm to 20cm, they have a significant presence and are designed to stand out as the centerpiece of displays.

The Last One Prize is a special prize that can be obtained after all the lottery tickets have been drawn, and it usually features a special color or metallic version of the A Prize figure. It has a unique feel compared to the regular version, with clear colors using transparent parts, gold or silver metallic paint, and limited decals, making it highly valued among collectors. In the secondary market, it is not uncommon for the Last One Prize to be traded at prices two to three times that of the A Prize.

B Prize & C Prize Highlight Items

The B Prize and C Prize are awards for figures and goods of quality next to the A Prize. The B Prize often features semi-main characters or popular enemy machines, and while they are slightly smaller than the A Prize, typically around 12cm to 15cm, their sculpting is not inferior. Past B Prizes have included figures like Sazabi, Sinanju, Destiny Gundam, and Gundam Schwalbe.

The appeal of the B Prize lies in the ability to display it alongside the A Prize, allowing for the recreation of battle scenes or cooperative scenes from the series. In the "Char's Counterattack" series, displaying the A Prize ν Gundam alongside the B Prize Sazabi can recreate the final battle between Amuro and Char. This enjoyment of combinations supports the popularity of the B Prize.

The C Prize includes slightly smaller figures, character goods, and acrylic stands. A wide range of items is available, including variations of mass-produced machines like Zaku and GM, figures of sub-characters, and towels or posters printed with famous scenes from the series. The C Prize has a high probability of winning, making it easy for beginners to obtain, and the ability to draw multiple times makes it easy to enhance one’s collection.

The Appeal of D Prize & E Prize

The D Prize and E Prize, while lower-tier awards, focus on practical goods that can be used in daily life. The D Prize includes clear files, mini towels, can badges, keychains, and acrylic keychains, providing items that allow fans to enjoy the Gundam universe in their everyday lives.

Below the E Prize, items like rubber straps, sticker sets, coasters, and mini colored paper are often set, and their affordable prices offer a fun way to challenge oneself. These goods can be attached to bags or wallets, or displayed around desks, allowing fans to feel the Gundam world in their daily lives.

Even lower-tier prizes often feature original illustrations or designs of famous scenes from the series, making them valuable items for fans. In particular, character acrylic keychains are popular for collecting and trading. The charm of Ichiban Kuji lies in the fact that no matter which prize you draw, you will receive some kind of Gundam goods, eliminating the concept of a losing draw.

How to Purchase and Tips for Obtaining Gundam Series

The Ichiban Kuji Gundam series is very popular and often sells out on release day, so prior planning and a strategic approach are essential. Here are some tips for ensuring you can obtain your desired prize.

Strategy for Release Day

The morning of the release day is the most crucial time for the Gundam series Ichiban Kuji. It is not uncommon for lines to form an hour before opening at popular stores. Especially at Gundam Base or hobby shops, where core fans gather, the competition is fierce.

Arrive at the store 30 minutes to 1 hour before opening time to secure your place in line; this is the basic strategy. Since the Ichiban Kuji is first-come, first-served, those who line up early have more options for remaining tickets, making it easier to aim for the A prize or the Last One prize. However, some stores may distribute numbered tickets, so it is important to check the store's rules in advance.

When drawing tickets, strategize while checking the remaining quantity. Since there is usually only 1 A prize and about 2-3 B prizes available, if you cannot draw them in the first few attempts, consider switching your strategy to aim for other prizes or to purchase in bulk to target the Last One prize. It is also effective to check the store's status on social media in real-time on the release day, allowing you to move efficiently while keeping track of sold-out information and stock status.

Points for Choosing a Store

The Ichiban Kuji Gundam series has significantly different stock levels and competition rates depending on the stores that handle them. Gundam Base has a rich selection and ample stock, but the competition rate is high due to the concentration of core fans. On the other hand, convenience stores are easy to stop by, but they tend to have less stock and sell out quickly.

Hobby shops, Animate, and bookstores are balanced options as they are less crowded than Gundam Base and have more stock than convenience stores. In particular, stores in rural areas or those located away from train stations tend to have lower competition rates compared to urban stores. It is advisable to list multiple stores in advance and plan an efficient route for the release day.

Additionally, purchasing through Ichiban Kuji ONLINE or various online shops is also an option. Online sales often take a lottery format and require pre-registration, but they eliminate the hassle of lining up at stores and provide a guaranteed chance to purchase. However, popular series tend to have high lottery odds, so applying from multiple sites can increase your chances of winning.

Strategy for Online Purchases

Ichiban Kuji ONLINE is popular as a service that allows you to draw Ichiban Kuji from home. Reservations start a few weeks before the release date, and you can draw tickets at your preferred timing. The advantage of online purchases is that you can check the remaining number of tickets and their breakdown, allowing you to purchase when A or B prizes are still available.

As a strategy for online purchases, stock tends to remain relatively available right after the release and during late-night hours. Since many people access during the day, checking at night or early morning increases your chances of drawing higher prizes. Additionally, if you want to ensure you get the Last One prize, waiting until it is the last ticket while checking the remaining quantity is also an effective strategy.

Since multiple online shops handle Ichiban Kuji, it is also important to compare the stock status of each site. By checking multiple platforms such as Rakuten, Amazon, Yahoo! Shopping, and various specialty sites, you can more easily avoid sold-out situations. However, online purchases often incur shipping fees, so it is recommended to buy in bulk to optimize shipping costs.

The Charm and Value of Gundam Figures

Ichiban Kuji Gundam figures attract many fans with their high quality and collectible value. Here, we will explain the specific charms of Gundam figures, comparisons with other products, and their long-term value.

Quality and Sculpting of Figures

The Ichiban Kuji Gundam figures are offered as completed products, which means there is no assembly required, and they can be displayed immediately after being taken out of the box, making this a significant appeal. The sculpting is very intricate, faithfully reproducing the complex details, panel lines, and sharp silhouettes of the mobile suits.

The painting is also of high quality, with some models featuring gradient painting and weathering (dirty painting). In particular, the A and B prize figures have beautiful metallic and glossy finishes that show different expressions depending on the light. The decals and markings on the details are pre-printed, eliminating the need to apply them like in plastic models.

While the range of motion is not as extensive as the ROBOT Spirits series, the main joints can move, allowing for basic posing. Optional parts such as weapons and shields are included, enabling the recreation of impressive scenes from the series. A base is also included, allowing for stable display without the worry of it falling over.

Comparison with Other Gundam Figures

In the Gundam figure market, there are various brands such as Gunpla (plastic models), ROBOT Spirits, METAL BUILD, and HGUC. The Ichiban Kuji figures can be said to occupy a middle ground among these products.

Compared to Gunpla, Ichiban Kuji figures are completed products, so there is no need for assembly or painting skills, allowing beginners to obtain high-quality figures. However, they do not offer the same level of customization or range of motion as Gunpla. When compared to ROBOT Spirits, Ichiban Kuji figures are more affordable, but ROBOT Spirits excels in terms of range of motion and the abundance of included accessories.

The biggest advantage of Ichiban Kuji is that you can challenge yourself for a few hundred yen per try, and if you're lucky, you can obtain high-quality figures at a low price. Additionally, limited colors such as the Last One Prize hold significant value for collectors as special variations that cannot be obtained from other brands.

Collection Value

The collection value of Ichiban Kuji Gundam figures fluctuates greatly depending on the popularity of the series, the rarity of the prizes, and their condition. In particular, limited color Last One Prizes and A prize figures from popular works tend to increase in value the longer it has been since their release.

Figures of main mobile suits like the Strike Freedom from "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED" and the Aerial from "The Witch from Mercury" have stable demand and are traded at high prices in the secondary market. Keeping them in unopened condition further increases their value. The condition of the box is also important, and items in excellent condition without scratches or dirt can be traded at premium prices.

From an investment perspective, Ichiban Kuji Gundam figures are also attracting attention. The market for related figures often rises in conjunction with movie releases or new series broadcasts, and by purchasing, storing, and selling at the right timing, it is possible to make a profit. However, the foundation of collecting is to enjoy the works or characters you love, and it is important to collect with a love for Gundam rather than solely for investment purposes.

Secondary Market and Gundam Figure Prices

The Ichiban Kuji Gundam series has been actively traded in the secondary market since its release. Here, we will explain the price trends on major trading platforms and the items that are traded at high prices.

Overview of Prices

The prices of Ichiban Kuji Gundam figures in the secondary market vary greatly depending on the rank and popularity of the prizes. On platforms like Mercari and Yahoo Auctions, A-prize figures typically trade for between 3,000 yen and 8,000 yen, while Last One prizes are generally around 5,000 yen to 15,000 yen. B-prizes range from 2,000 yen to 5,000 yen, and C-prizes and below are valued at approximately 500 yen to 2,000 yen.

Popular series and rare items can trade at prices far exceeding these averages. In particular, the Last One prizes for the Strike Freedom from "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED" and the Ξ Gundam from "Hathaway's Flash" often see high-value transactions exceeding 10,000 yen. Unopened and pristine items can fetch even higher prices.

Prices fluctuate based on the balance of supply and demand, typically spiking right after release and stabilizing over time. However, events such as movie releases or new series broadcasts can cause related product prices to rise again, making it important to time purchases wisely. Regularly checking prices and buying or selling at appropriate values is key to smart trading.

Items with High Transaction Values

Among the Ichiban Kuji Gundam series, items that are particularly high in value share common characteristics. First, the limited color figures for Last One prizes are highly sought after due to their rarity, as only one exists per lot, making them prime candidates for high-value transactions. Versions with transparent parts or metallic paint are often traded at two to three times the price of standard versions.

Next, figures of main mechs from popular works have stable demand. The Strike Freedom Gundam, ν Gundam, Unicorn Gundam, and Aerial are beloved across generations and tend to maintain their value over time. Versions with rich gimmicks (such as wing deployment and fin funnel deployment) are especially valued for their display appeal.

Additionally, limited series with low production numbers, as well as region-specific or event-exclusive items, are also targets for high-value transactions. Ichiban Kuji items exclusive to Gundam Base or products limited to theaters are not available in regular stores, leading to premium pricing. These items can be very difficult to obtain later if missed at release, making information gathering crucial.

Factors Influencing Price Fluctuations

The market prices of Ichiban Kuji Gundam figures fluctuate due to various factors. The most significant influence comes from the release of new movies or anime series. When the release of the "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom" movie was announced, the prices of past SEED-related products surged all at once. Thus, works with media mix developments tend to see an increase in the value of related figures.

Next, the release of new Ichiban Kuji products also impacts prices. When a new series is announced, attention returns to past products related to the same work, which can lead to price increases. Conversely, if a new version of the same mech is released, the value of the old version may temporarily drop. However, limited colors and first editions tend to maintain their value in the long term.

Events and anniversaries related to Gundam also affect the market. During anniversary celebrations of Gundam or significant years for specific works, the overall demand for related products increases. Additionally, the buzz on social media is an important factor; when influencers introduce specific figures or trending tweets go viral, the market can temporarily surge. Understanding market trends and trading at the right time is key to wisely utilizing the secondary market.

Summary: Enjoying the Ichiban Kuji Gundam Series

The Ichiban Kuji Gundam series is an attractive content that allows you to obtain high-quality figures and goods at an easily challengeable price range. Based on the information introduced so far, here are the points to maximize your enjoyment of the Gundam series in 2025.

Highlights for 2025

In 2025, excitement is expected to build around the release of the movie "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom," marking it as a Gundam year. The Ichiban Kuji related to the movie is anticipated to feature a luxurious lineup centered around the new mobile suits and characters from SEED Freedom, making it a must-see series for SEED fans. The release period is expected to be from spring to summer, so it is important to keep an eye on information from the official website and social media.

The "UNIVERSAL CENTURY SAGA" from the Universal Century series is also expected to continue, featuring iconic machines like the ν Gundam, Sazabi, and Zong. Since Universal Century fans span a wide range of generations, stable popularity is anticipated. Given that the release day is expected to be crowded, it is advisable to plan your actions early.

Surprise announcements such as additional series for "The Witch from Mercury" and special projects for the 45th anniversary can also be expected. Regularly check the official information from Bandai Spirits and Gundam Base to ensure you don’t miss any upcoming releases. Some series may require online lotteries or reservations, so completing pre-registration or membership registration will facilitate a smooth purchasing process.

Advice for Beginners

For those challenging the Ichiban Kuji Gundam series for the first time, start by clearly identifying your favorite Gundam works or mobile suits. If you like SEED, choose SEED-related items; if you prefer the Universal Century, opt for the Universal Century series. This will deepen your attachment to the prizes you win. Instead of aiming for the A prize or the last one prize, it is recommended to casually try a few times to experience the fun of Ichiban Kuji.

For beginners, convenience stores and hobby shops are suitable places to purchase. Gundam Base may have many core fans, which could be a bit daunting for beginners. By visiting multiple stores, you can check stock availability and enjoy at your own pace. Online purchases are convenient, but the experience of actually drawing a lottery ticket in a physical store is one of the joys of Ichiban Kuji.

It is also important to set a budget and purchase strategically. Buying in bulk to aim for the A prize can lead to exceeding your budget. Trying your luck with one or a few challenges is a suitable way for beginners to enjoy. Prizes won, regardless of their rank, hold value as official Gundam merchandise, so cherish your collection. Displaying figures in dedicated display cases can protect them from dust while allowing for beautiful viewing.

For Those Who Want to Know More

If you want to know more about the basic mechanism of Ichiban Kuji and other series, please refer to the parent article Complete Guide to Ichiban Kuji. It comprehensively explains the general rules of Ichiban Kuji, purchasing methods, tips, and points to note. It also provides detailed information about Ichiban Kuji for anime and game works other than Gundam, making it ideal for those who want to enjoy a wide range of content.

Additionally, by participating in the Ichiban Kuji community, you can share the latest information and strategies. On Twitter, many fans exchange information using the hashtags "#IchibanKujiGundam" and "#IchibanKuji". You can obtain real-time information such as store conditions on release days, winning reports, and figure reviews, so it is convenient to follow.

YouTube has many unboxing and review videos of Ichiban Kuji. You can check the actual prize's design and texture in advance, which serves as a reference for your purchasing decisions. Moreover, at Gundam Base and various events, you can see new product displays and actual samples, so if you have the opportunity, I recommend visiting.

The Ichiban Kuji Gundam series is not just a lottery; it is an entry point to deeply enjoy the world of Gundam. It offers the joy of collecting figures, the excitement of testing your luck, communication among fans, and above all, an opportunity to deepen your love for Gundam. Please challenge yourself with the Gundam series in 2025. I hope a wonderful Gundam figure will be added to your collection.