Bandai plans to release a new Gundam trading card game globally in July, marking its latest push to replicate the success of its One Piece card franchise in international markets.
The company unveiled the game at its card festival in Orlando, Florida, releasing it simultaneously in Japanese, English and Chinese languages. The starter deck, priced at 1,320 yen ($9), will feature characters from various Gundam series including “Mobile Suit Gundam” and “The Witch from Mercury.”
A key feature of the new product is its integration with “Gundam Assemble,” a battle game using 5-centimeter miniature models. This cross-product strategy aims to leverage Bandai’s strength in both gaming and model kit segments.
The launch follows Bandai’s beta testing phase that began in December 2024. The company’s card game division, which currently manages six titles, has seen significant international success with its One Piece card game launched in 2022.
Unlike other card games based on manga properties, Gundam’s intellectual property is wholly owned by Bandai Namco Group, potentially offering higher profit margins if the game succeeds. The global rollout will test the company’s efforts to expand the Gundam franchise beyond its traditional Japanese market.
