The client file reportedly includes unsecured 3D data of Gundam plastic models
© Sotsu, Sunrise, MBS
A glitch in the system?
Bandai Namco Entertainment announced on Wednesday that it has temporarily suspended client file downloads for its model Project Metaverse. The company did not provide further details other than stating that it would reveal on its website when downloads resume.
The suspension follows online reports that customer file downloads included unsecured and unencrypted 3D data of Gunma plastic models.
The previously announced “Gunpla Colony” beta test for the project was launched in early access to limited participants in the US and Japan on October 6, and general access starting on October 11. General access is currently scheduled until October 23. Full launch is expected for spring 2024 and the company aims to operate Metaverse at scale big in 2025. The Metaverse features the AI character Mellow, who guides the user through virtual space.
Bandai Namco Holdings has invested approximately 15 billion yen (about US$130 million) in the GTA-themed Metaverse. The Metaverse platform is a “hybrid” of physical and digital services. Users can purchase Gunpla (plastic Gunpla models) through the platform, as well as upload images and data about their Gunpla. Players can use this data to interact and “fight” with other players.
The platform integrates IP Gund’s categories, such as toys, anime, music and games, as virtual “Colonies,” each offering its own services. For example, the Esports colony focuses on free-to-play action games Gun Evolution and Mobile Suit: Battle Operation 2. The colonies are connected through a space hub called”SIDE-G”.
Gundam Build Metaverse, Bandai Namco Entertainment’s three-episode 10th anniversary anime for the Gund Build series, streamed on the franchise’s official YouTube channel and on Papa.info’s YouTube channel on October 6. The new story of the Gunpla Build Metaverse anime is set in an online hyperspace, where users can use avatars to move around and interact with other users, including conducting missions. Gunpla battle with them.
Source: website
Disclosure: Bandai Namco Filmworks Inc. (Sunrise) is a minority, non-controlling shareholder in Anime News Network Inc.