A New Era for GUNDAM Fans
Bandai Namco Holdings Inc. has unveiled the GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR, a global initiative blending cutting-edge technology and fan engagement. The tour’s centerpiece is the GUNDAM NEXT FUTURE PAVILION, debuting at the 2025 Osaka-Kansai World Expo on April 13, 2025. This launch coincides with the opening of a limited-time THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP store in Osaka’s Daimaru Umeda department store, marking the start of a multi-city expansion targeting fans worldwide.
1. GUNDAM NEXT FUTURE PAVILION: Redefining Immersive Entertainment
Location: Osaka-Kansai Expo 2025 “Future Society” Zone
Key Features:
- Unreal Engine 5-Powered Visuals: A 360-degree projection spanning 18 meters in depth and 8 meters in height, showcasing the new GUNDAM: Next Universal Century storyline.
- Haptic Floor Technology: Developed by Sony, this tactile feedback system syncs with on-screen action, allowing visitors to “feel” mecha battles and environmental effects.
- Interactive MS (Mobile Suit) Exhibits: Life-sized prototypes of next-generation GUNDAM units, including augmented reality (AR) integration for real-time customization.
Visitor Experience:
The pavilion aims to explore themes of “coexisting with MS in the future,” blending narrative-driven content with sensory immersion. Early access tickets will be available via lottery from March 15, 2025, on the Official Expo Portal.
2. THE GUNDAM BASE POP-UP WORLD TOUR: Global Expansion Plans
Osaka Flagship Store (April 11, 2025):
- Exclusive Merchandise: Limited-edition GUNDAM: Next Universal Century model kits, apparel, and collectibles.
- Fan Events: Daily meet-and-greets with series creators and live model-building workshops.
2025-2026 Tour Stops:
- Asia: Beijing’s Wangfujing IN88 (Q3 2025), Singapore’s Marina Bay Sands (Q4 2025).
- North America: Pop-ups in Los Angeles (Anime Expo 2025) and New York (Hudson Yards, Q1 2026).
- Europe: Paris (La Défense Arena) and Berlin (Mall of Berlin) in late 2026.
Strategic Partnerships:
Bandai is collaborating with Sony Interactive Entertainment and Tencent Games to integrate GUNDAM: Next Universal Century content into VR platforms and mobile games, enhancing cross-media engagement.
3. China’s Expanding GUNDAM Ecosystem
While not part of the official “World Tour,” China’s growing GUNDAM footprint aligns with Bandai’s global strategy:
- Beijing’s 4th Flagship Store: Opened May 2024 at Wangfujing IN88, featuring AR-guided model displays.
- Suzhou Satellite Store (December 2024): A collaboration with maternity retailer Aiyingshi, targeting younger demographics through hands-on workshops.
- Sales Growth: China’s GUNDAM model sales surged 67% YoY in 2024, driven by localized marketing and e-commerce partnerships with JD.com and Tmall.
4. Future Roadmap: Beyond 2025
- Anime Tie-In: A 26-episode GUNDAM: Next Universal Century series premieres October 2025 on Netflix and Crunchyroll.
- Gaming Expansion: Bandai confirmed a console/PC game adaptation using Unreal Engine 5, slated for 2026.
- Sustainability Initiatives: Recyclable model kits and solar-powered pop-up stores by 2027.
Why This Matters for Fans and Investors
- Cultural Impact: The Osaka pavilion’s tech innovations position GUNDAM as a leader in experiential entertainment, rivaling Disney’s Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
- Market Growth: Bandai’s stock (TYO:7832) rose 3.2% post-announcement, with analysts projecting a $500M revenue boost from the World Tour.
- Community Building: Global pop-ups bridge physical/digital fandom, crucial as 55% of GUNDAM’s audience now engages via social platforms like TikTok and Bilibili.
