Wanna build a Gundam Plastic Model (or #gunpla) but don't know where to start? Heres some biased recommendations. Starting off, here's one I think literally everyone should have in their collection: The Master Grade Ball Ver. Ka! Cheap, unique, great details, its got it all!

Plus, if you don't like the grey color, there's a version right from the hit OVA 08th MS Team. I got both!

With that out of the way, if you've never built anything before, start with a High Grade kit. HGAC Leo, HGUC GM Ground Type, HGBF Bearguy III, HGUC Zaku II the Origin are all solid easy builds going from simplest to most complex.

One really fun new addition in the HG category that's aimed more at kids is the High Grade Build Divers' Planet System line which revolves around stumpy Gundams with interchangeable armors. Start with the Earthree and maybe a few others to mix and match.

You'd do well with almost any High Grade kit that looks cool to you. They're almost all fairly solid, simple builds. But if you're looking for the best build in the category, go for the HGUC Moon Gundam.

If you're more confident in your skills give the Real Grade line a try. The same size but more complex and take more time. The older kits have a reputation for being fragile nightmares, but the latest are all stellar: The RG Nu Gundam, RG Sazabi, RG Crossbone, and RG Eva Unit 01.

The real greats are in the Master Grade line. They're bigger and have complex internal structures. Here's some simpler ones that look great: Zaku II 2.0 (so many colors to choose from!), AGE-1 Normal, Hyaku Shiki 2.0, GM Sniper II

If you're into Gundam Wing, the Master Grades versions are some of the best looking in the category. Stay away from the Wing Gundam (its junk) and go with the supporting cast: Heavyarms, Altron, Deathsycthe Hell, Sandrock are all gorgeous

Some more excellent choices: MG Gear Doga, old school look with a solid build; MG Turn X, a Syd Mead masterpiece; MG Gundam Barbatos, the latest release and full of pistons; MG Gundam Dynames, cool sniper with incredible articulation.

These 3 Master Grade versions of the RX-78-2 are all great, so just pick the one you like the look of. Gundam 2.0, oldest and simplest with a great retro look; Gundam 3.0, amazing color separations with a modern sleeker design; Gundam The Origin, bulky and more realistic details.

Want something that'll give you a headache but look amazing? Try a Ver. Ka. Master Grade! Redesigns by legendary designer Hajime Katoki are a sight to behold. Here are my faves: Sazabi, an absolute goliath; V2 Assault Buster, fragile but I love it; Full Armor ZZ, Biggest gun!

Okay I think that's enough options in a pretty wide range. The last thing I'm gonna recommend way on the opposite side of the difficulty spectrum is the SDCS line. Super simple, cute lil guys. I like the Gundam Ground Type and Zaku II. And don't forget a CS frame (not included).

Good luck! I'm always happy to answer any questions about supplies or whatever. Just give me a holler.

Oh you want something NOT based on the one franchise, Gundam? Turns out there are others. Bandai makes far and above the most reliably good kits. Check out the Figure-Rise line for totally awesome variety like Dragon Ball, Dr. Slump (love this one), Kamen Rider, and Ultraman.

Outside of Bandai, Kotobukia's Hexa Gears are fun but fragile, Cross Frame Girls are great but a ton of work, and Good Smile/Max Factory's Dougram and Moderoid lines have got me pretty pumped, but I haven't actually built any yet.

If anyone gets anything off this list I’d love to hear about it! If nothing’s quite striking your fancy I’d be happy to make a more personalized recommendation.

Looks like this is picking up steam, so if you don’t know me, I’ve been in love with Gunpla for around 25 years and have built enough crappy kits to know how to spot a good one. Wanna know my first ever kit? This beautiful bastard.