Gundam Build Metaverse

Gundam Build Metaverse is a 2023 original net animation (ONA) mini-series created to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Gundam Build franchise and the 45th anniversary of the Gundam series. The three-episode series is set in a virtual reality world where players engage in Gunpla battles using customized avatars. The story follows Rio Hōjō, a passionate young boy from Hawaii, who, with the guidance of his mentor Seria Urutsuki, builds his own Gunpla, the Lah Gundam, and enters the Metaverse to improve his skills. Along the way, Rio meets characters from previous Gundam Build series, such as Meijin Kawaguchi III and Hiroto Kuga (久我悠人), as he navigates challenges and grows both as a builder and a person. The narrative also explores Rio’s relationship with Seria and her estranged sister, Maria.

Directed by Masami Ōbari (大張正己), the series combines traditional animation with digital effects to bring the virtual Gunpla battles to life. It showcases a variety of Gunpla models, including the Lah Gundam, Gundam Amazing Barbatos Lupus, and Gundam 00 Diver Arc, highlighting the creativity of the Gunpla community. Gundam Build Metaverse offers a fresh, nostalgic perspective on the Gundam Build universe, combining themes of mentorship, personal growth, and the joy of building Gunpla. The series is available for streaming, providing fans with a new chapter in the ever-expanding world of Gunpla.