A life-sized moving model of Mobile Suit Gundam’s iconic RX-78-2 has learned to play rock, paper, and scissors and will attempt to defeat humans in their own game.
As reported by Anime News Network, the giant, 59-foot-tall Gundam statue, housed at the Gundam Factory Yokohama, now has movement functions capable of playing the simple game, reports CBR.
A tournament is set to be held on May 5, 2023, to demonstrate its aptitude for the contest, with the colossal statue scheduled to play against every person in attendance.
The prize for winning against the anime icon will be the chance to enter an area usually closed to the public for a commemorative photo.
The RX-78-2 model installation, named RX-78F00, opened to public viewing in December 2020 and is set to remain until March 31, 2024.
It was originally intended to open in October 2020 to mark the 40th anniversary of the franchise; however, this ended up being pushed back due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Besides being able to play rock, paper, scissors, the giant Gundam can also light up its vents and eyes.
In addition, the whole thing is powered by a wind turbine located near the facility, making it function through renewable energy.
Celebrating all things Gundam
Anime News Network also reported that a special event is set to be held between April 29 and May 7, wherein the giant statue will hold a flight pose inspired by the RX-105 Xi Gundam’s “Minovsky Flight,” as seen in the film Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway.
During this, a kitchen cart will sell themed drinks tied to the most recent Gundam series, Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch of Mercury, including items like Miorine’s tomato soda.
The Witch From Mercury debuted in 2022 to a strong reception from fans and critics. The series follows Suletta Mercury as she transfers to an academic institution run by the megacorporation The Benerit Group.
She encounters Miorine Rembran while there and forms a quick bond with her, connecting the two as they seek to help Miorine escape the oppressive control of her father.
Alongside her schooling, Suletta must also protect her Mobile Suit Aerial from the permanent ban set on any Suits that use the GUND Format.
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch of Mercury is available to watch on Crunchyroll, with Episode 16 scheduled to be released on April 30.
