The High Grade Gundam Thunderbolt (HGGT) line is part of the widely popular High Grade (HG) Gunpla series, produced by Bandai Spirits, a division of Bandai Namco. First introduced in 2013, the HGGT line is based on the critically acclaimed Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt manga, created by Yasuo Ohtagaki, and its anime adaptations. Set in the Universal Century timeline, Gundam Thunderbolt depicts intense and gritty battles between the Earth Federation and Zeon forces in the chaotic and debris-filled Thunderbolt Sector.
The High Grade Gundam Thunderbolt kits collection are renowned for their high level of detail and faithful representation of the mobile suits from the Thunderbolt series. Each model captures the unique, rugged aesthetic of the Thunderbolt universe, characterized by heavily armored mobile suits and war-torn designs. Bandai Spirits developed the HGGT line to offer fans of the series an opportunity to recreate their favorite mobile suits in 1/144 scale, with enhanced articulation and realism typical of the HG grade. These kits are perfect for both casual builders and dedicated collectors seeking to own a piece of the Gundam Thunderbolt universe.
The HGGT line has become essential for Gundam fans due to its combination of accessibility, intricate detailing, and connection to one of the most intense and visually distinct Gundam series in the franchise.
Here is the list of High Grade Gundam Thunderbolt (HGGT) Gundam:
Full Armor Gundam
The Full Armor Gundam is one of the most iconic mobile suits from the Thunderbolt series. As the name suggests, this mobile suit is heavily armored and equipped with a wide range of weapons, making it a powerhouse on the battlefield. Its design, combined with the massive amount of detail in the HGGT version, makes it a favorite among collectors.
- Based on manga version
- Released on 2013 December
Zaku II & Big Gun
The Zaku II & Big Gun set offers fans an excellent representation of the Zeon mobile suit and its powerful artillery piece. The detailed molding and multiple accessories make this model a unique piece for any Gundam collection.
- Based on manga version
- Released on 2013 December
GM
The GM model kit is a great representation of the Federation’s mass-produced mobile suits. Though it’s not as heavily armed as the Full Armor Gundam, its sleek design and practicality make it a valuable addition to the HGGT lineup.
- Based on manga version
- Released on 2013 December
MS-06 Zaku ll
The MS-06 Zaku II is one of the most iconic mobile suits in the Gundam universe. This model is a highly detailed version that captures the rough and worn look of the Zaku II in the Thunderbolt sector, making it a popular choice among fans.
- Based on manga version
- Released on 2014 February
MS-06R Zaku II High Mobility Type “Psycho Zaku”
The Psycho Zaku stands out for its high mobility and overwhelming firepower. This model is known for its massive thruster packs and heavy weaponry, making it an impressive and imposing figure in the HGGT line.
- Based on manga version
- Released on 2014 February
MS-05 Zaku l
The Zaku I is the predecessor to the Zaku II and features a more minimalist design. However, this does not detract from its appeal, as the HGGT version brings out every detail, making it an exceptional addition to the Thunderbolt series.
- Based on manga version
- Released on 2014 June
Full Armor Gundam
This version of the Full Armor Gundam is based on its appearance in the Gundam Thunderbolt ONA (Original Net Animation). The design is slightly altered from the manga version but retains the impressive armor and weaponry that make this mobile suit a fan favorite.
- (Gundam Thunderbolt ONA Ver.)
- Based on anime season 1
- Released on 2016 April
Zaku II & Big Gun
The anime version of the Zaku II & Big Gun offers a different color scheme and slight modifications to its design. Like its manga counterpart, this model is an essential piece for fans of the Zeon forces in the Thunderbolt universe.
- (Gundam Thunderbolt ONA Ver.)
- Based on anime season 1
- Released on 2016 April
Zaku II High Mobility Type “Psycho Zaku”
The Psycho Zaku’s ONA version includes additional details and color schemes to match its anime portrayal. This version emphasizes the mobile suit’s destructive power and agility, making it a must-have for collectors who enjoy highly dynamic figures.
- (Gundam Thunderbolt ONA Ver.)
- Based on anime season 1
- Released on 2016 May
GM
The GM from the ONA series is a basic yet efficient mobile suit, and this model does an excellent job of highlighting its simplicity and utility.
- (Gundam Thunderbolt ONA Ver.)
- Based on anime season 1
- Released on 2016 May
Zaku I
The Zaku I from the ONA version brings a fresh color scheme and additional details, making it a standout model in the HGGT line.
- (Gundam Thunderbolt ONA Ver.)
- Based on anime season 1
- Released on 2016 June
Atlas Gundam
The Atlas Gundam is one of the more unique designs from the Gundam Thunderbolt series. Its sleek, amphibious design is complemented by the HGGT’s high level of detail, making it a fan-favorite addition to any collection.
- (Gundam Thunderbolt ONA Ver.)
- Based on anime season 2
- Released on 2017 March
Gundam Ground Type S
The Ground Type S Gundam is built for terrestrial warfare and is a standout in the HGGT series thanks to its robust design and versatility in different terrains.
- Based on anime season 2
- Released on 2017 March
Why the High Grade Gundam Thunderbolt (HGGT) Line Stands Out
The High Grade Gundam Thunderbolt (HGGT) series is a testament to Bandai’s commitment to producing high-quality model kits. Each model showcases meticulous detailing, accurate scaling, and dynamic articulation. Whether you’re a fan of the manga or the anime adaptation, these kits deliver exceptional craftsmanship and capture the spirit of the Thunderbolt universe.
Conclusion
When compared to other Gundam grades like Master Grade (MG) and Perfect Grade (PG), the High Grade Gundam Thunderbolt series offers a more accessible and affordable option while still maintaining high standards of detail and accuracy. The High Grade scale ensures that even intricate designs are manageable for builders of all skill levels.
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See Also
- Real Grade (RG) Gundam
- Perfect Grade (PG) Gundam
- Perfect Grade Unleased (PGU) Gundam
- Master Grade (MG) Gundam
- Master Grade Extreme (MGEX) Gundam
- Master Grade SD Gundam
- Metal Build Gundam
- SD Gundam Cross Silhouette (SDCS)
- SD EX-Standard (SDEX) Gundam
- Entry Grade Gundam
- Gundam Full Mechanics
- Gundam Universe
- High Grade Gundam Thunderbolt (HGGT)
- High-Resolution Model (HiRM) Gundam
- Best Gundam Diorama for Your Collection
