The life-size movement model of Mobile Suit Gundam’s iconic RX-78-2 has learned to play rock-paper-scissors and will attempt to beat humans at their own game.
As reported by Anime News Network, the massive, 59-foot tall statue of Gundam, located at Gundam Factory Yokohama, now features motion functions capable of simple game play. A tournament is scheduled to be held on May 5, 2023 to show off its ability to the competition, with the colossus expected to compete against every attendee. The reward for winning over the anime icon will be a chance to enter an area normally closed to the public to take a commemorative photo.
The RX-78-2 model installation, dubbed RX-78F00, opened to the public in December 2020 and is set to remain open until March 31, 2024. Originally intended to open. in October 2020 to mark the 40th anniversary of the franchise; however, this was eventually pushed back due to the COVID-19 pandemic. In addition to the ability to play rock-paper-scissors, tug of war, the giant Gundam can also light up its vents and eyes. In addition, the entire unit is powered by a wind turbine located near the facility, making it powered by renewable energy.
Celebrate all things Gundam
Anime News Network also reported that a special event will be held from April 29 to May 7 in which the colossal statue will hold a flying pose inspired by RX’s “Minovsky Flight”- 105 Xi Gundam, as seen in the movie Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway. During this time, a kitchen cart will sell themed drinks tied to the most recent Gundam series, Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch of Mercury, including items like Miorine’s tomato soda.
The Witch From Mercury launches in 2022 to a warm reception from fans and critics. The film follows Suletta Mercury as she transfers to an academic institution run by The Benerit Group. She meets Miorine Rembran while there and forms a quick bond with her, connecting the two as they seek to free Miorine from her father’s oppressive control. Besides going to school, Suletta also has to protect her Mobile Suit Aerial from a permanent ban on any Suit that uses the GUND Format.
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch of Mercury is available to watch on Crunchyroll, with Episode 16 scheduled to be released on Sunday, April 30.
Source: Anime News Network
