The term Gunpla refers to model kits of mecha characters or plastic vehicles from the Japanese series Gundam, which is a trademark of Bandai. It appeared in 1980.

The philosophy of Gunpla: a model for everyone! No glue or painting required.

All Gundam models are characterized by two main features:

• the parts are snap-fit
• they are color molded

Gunpla are classified into series (known as grade) based on their quality and/or size. The main ones are:

• NG No Grade (1980): refers retrospectively to the first models released in 1980.
• HG High Grade (1990): the first higher quality series in 1/144 scale.
• MG Master Grade (1995): higher quality than HG, with fully modeled internal mechanisms in 1/100 scale.
• PG Perfect Grade (1998): the most technically advanced series in 1/60 scale.
• FG First Grade (1999): an affordable series with snap-fit models.
• HGUC High Grade Universal Century (1999): a popular reissue of Universal Century robots.
• EX-model (2001): series dedicated to vehicles and related flying machines.
• MS Mega Size (2009): 1/48 scale series.
• RG Real Grade (2010): similar to MG but in 1/144 size like HG.
• RE/100 Reborn One Hundred (2014): new series in 1/100 scale.
• Super Deformed Gundam or SD Gundam: a Japanese series that parody the Gundam saga, adopting the super deformed graphic style.

The exhaustive classification is more complex, as it depends on scale (from 1/550 to 1/35), upgrades (the master grade series exists in 1.5, 2.0, and 3.0 versions), and special events (e.g., the Ver.G 30th series released for the thirtieth anniversary).