The "METAL BUILD Kämpfer" figure (Bandai Spirits), based on the Kämpfer mobile suit from the anime "Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket," is generating buzz as it's being re-released on Bandai Namco Group's shopping site, "Premium Bandai." This popular item, which sold out instantly when it was first sold on "Premium Bandai" in 2023, continues to captivate people even after so many years since its creation.
◇Chain mines are really cool after all
The Kämpfer is a prototype assault mobile suit of the Principality of Zeon that first appeared in the OVA (Original Video Animation) "Mobile Suit Gundam 0080," which was released in 1989. The name of the mobile suit means "fighter" or "warrior" in German, and it was designed by Yutaka Izubuchi. In the story, it was operated by the special forces unit Cyclops, to which Bernard Wiseman belonged, and clashed with the Gundam NT-1 (Alex) piloted by Earth Federation Forces Lieutenant Christina Mackenzie.
Its most distinctive feature is its concept, which specializes in single-unit assaults on enemy bases and the ability to break through enemy defense lines. Equipped with high-thrust thrusters at various points on the aircraft, its high-speed movement, which involves maintaining a low attitude and gliding, is still talked about today.
To minimize the load on the mobile suit's generator and maintain thrust, beam weapons are limited to beam sabers only. While it is also equipped with shotguns, giant bazookas, and Sturm Fausts, the chain mine is arguably the Kämpfer's signature weapon.
A chain mine is a weapon consisting of linked bombs or landmines that are wrapped around an opponent and detonated. In the story, it was wrapped around the Gundam NT-1 and destroyed its Chobham armor. However, it only managed to destroy the Chobham armor, and was subsequently destroyed by a counterattack.
◇ Kenshi Yonezu's comments also became a topic of discussion.
Its distinctive form, which stands out even among Zeon-type mobile suits, is one of the reasons for its popularity. While primarily composed of flowing curves, it also possesses functional beauty. The even more chic and deep blue coloring than that of the Gouf gives it a tough and no-nonsense impression.
The series has had a strong fan base since the OVA was released in 1989, and Gunpla (the so-called "old kits") were also popular. Even now, about 37 years later, it continues to enjoy strong support. Last year, singer-songwriter Kenshi Yonezu made headlines when he named the Kämpfer as his favorite mobile suit.
The design is undoubtedly fantastic, but it's destroyed rather abruptly in the film. The striking appearance of the "Blue Warrior" and the short but intense time leading up to his defeat undoubtedly left a powerful impression. (Manami Anima/MANTANWEB)
