The anime model kits universe expands nearly further than the real one, and what the heck is Moderoids? Fortunately, I’m an avid hobbyist and collector who will reveal all the secrets in the best anime model kits guide. I’ve been at this hobby for years, and model kits are merely the tip of my collectible adventures.
In addition, I often help friends and clients source the most incredible replicas, statues, action figures, and Funko Pop. Thanks to my experience with Nendoroids, the question about Moderoids will soon rest. However, anime model kits are complicated, and you need someone to guide you properly.
Otherwise, you’ll have more questions than answers. So, welcome my comprehensive anime model kits guide with a few top picks.
Anime Model Kits: Bottom Line Up Front
Straight off the bat, I must share how anime model kits can overwhelm you when you don’t know where to begin. Fortunately, I love model kits, anime, and all the crossovers available. So, I’ll share details about the top anime model kit types, skill levels, and grades. In addition, many of my picks blend two anime types into one.
Furthermore, I’m ready to dish the details on tools and bonus items that make anime model kit building an active hobby for beginners, intermediate, and advanced hobbyists. There’s an entire universe to explore with anime model kits, and it’s easy to get lost when so many exist, especially when they blend multiple types.
So, getting to the skill levels required will be the best bet. However, I’ll be sure to add a variety of top picks for all hobbyist levels. But first, let me share a favorite among them all. The Zoids Highend Master RBOZ-003 Gojulas Ogre Model Kit is on my to-do list. I’m an intermediate hobbyist, but this Zoid intrigues me.
I’d love to take the challenge of building the Highend Master model kit from Zoids. The details, customization, and thousands of pieces will keep me busy for months. Meanwhile, I have a few more incredible anime model kits to share. So, stay tuned for more.
A Glance at Some of the Best Anime Model Kits
I understand the urgency of seeing the best picks, but they won’t make much sense until you learn about the basics. So, here are three more top picks to wet your taste buds before we dive into the skill levels, grades, tools, and bonus tips for anime model kits:
- The Evangelion Mechagodzilla Type 3 Kiryu Eva Model Kit is a brilliant choice for beginners, only a level 2 challenge. In addition, it blends two popular characters.
- The Ginga Hyouryuu Vifam Toranfam Beige Version Scale Model Kit is my second favorite for advanced hobbyists. You can customize a lot about this movable figure.
- The Kotobukiya Megami Device Bullet Knights Launcher Model Kit is an excellent choice for non-specific anime enthusiasts with some experience. In addition, it appeals to intermediate hobbyists.
A Complete Guide to Top Anime Model Kits
Learning about the best anime model kits can take all day. However, I’ll break it down quickly. First, I’ll share the top anime model kit types and what to expect from each. Then, I’ll give you tips and tools to enhance the model kit building. Finally, I’ll share the secret to how I selected the best anime model kits from hundreds.
Popular Anime Model Kit Types and Grades
Anime is a vast universe of potential, meaning you’ll also find various types and grades. But first, let’s begin with a few common types of anime model kits available. Here are some popular anime model kit types:
Versatile Skills Anime Model Kits
- The ACT Mode model kits from Good Smile Company combined famous anime girls with mean machines to turn them into versatile models for intermediate and advanced hobbyists. They’re similar to Kotobukiya’s Megami Device models.
- Frame Arms Girl is an anime-inspired series of model kits by Kotobukiya. The models aren’t too challenging and would suit beginners and intermediate hobbyists.
- GaoGaiGar model kits are another versatile skill choice from a popular anime series, appealing to various hobbyists. However, some kits require intricate work, and others don’t.
- Kotobukiya’s Megami Device model kit range blends multiple anime girls with weaponry and destruction. It’s a fun series that appeals to intermediate hobbyists.
- Moderoid model kits are impressive giants representing different anime characters, gods, and mechanical creatures. It’s a new range of model kits from the Good Smile Company. In addition, they appeal to most hobbyists.
- Yu-Gi-Oh is still around and going strong. Meanwhile, the anime model kit series appeals to beginners and intermediate hobbyists.
Model Kit Skill Levels Explained
- Level 1 requires no tools, paint, or equipment. Instead, it uses 10 to 30 snap or pre-painted pieces.
- Level 2 requires some glue and paint. They come in 31 to 80 pieces.
- Level 3 needs more detailed work and has more decals. They come in 81 to 100 pieces.
- Level 4 needs intricate work, detailed painting, and patience. They include 101 to 120 pieces.
- Level 5 requires the assembly of hundreds to thousands of components, and tools and delicate work are necessary.
Graded Anime Model Kits
- Evangelion model kits are famous among various anime hobbyists. Evangelion is a well-known anime series, and the model kits offer excellent graded choices for beginners to advanced hobbyists.
- Gundam (also known as Gunpla) model kits is a range of vehicles, robots, and characters from the Bandai anime universe. Gundam model kits have graded difficulty levels, ranging from beginners to advanced hobbyists.
Both graded model kits belong to Bandai. So, it helps to understand the grades.
Bandai Grading Explained
- Standard Grade (SG) works for beginners.
- Real Grade (RG) is an in-between challenge for beginners to intermediate hobbyists.
- Perfect Grade (PG) is better for intermediate hobbyists.
- Master Grade (MG) suits advanced and intermediate hobbyists looking for a challenge.
- High Grade (HG) is best for advanced hobbyists.
- Super Deformed Grade (SD) is a challenging model kit for advanced hobbyists.
Scaled Anime Model Kits
- ATK Girl model kits come from the toy series first, but there’s an anime series for the four Chinese divine animals and other characters. These model kits are typically scaled and appeal to beginners and intermediate hobbyists.
- Digimon model kits are uncomplicated Bandai versions that don’t use grades like Evangelion or Gundam models. Instead, they come as simple scaled model kits that appeal to beginners and intermediate hobbyists.
- Ginga Hyouryuu Vifam model kits are scaled versions that appeal to intermediate and advanced hobbyists because they require paint. They come from the anime series with the same name.
- Kotobukiya’s Sousai Shojo Teien model kit series impresses me. The model kits are scaled versions. The characters are anime girls from St. Iris Girls High School. The winning point for these model kits is that they can utilize Kotobukiya’s support model kit range.
- Suyata model kits focus on scaled versions of The Hunter’s Poem anime series. These kits appeal primarily to beginners and intermediate hobbyists.
- Zoids model kits originate from Kotobukiya and TOMY. It includes characters, vehicles, and mechanical models from a Netflix show. These model kits are scaled and vary in difficulty levels, appealing primarily to intermediate to advanced hobbyists.
Scaled model kits can fit into the skill levels of versatile kits. Please, refer to the skill levels to see the difficulties.
Advice about Anime Model Kits Level Tools
Don’t be fooled by the difficulty levels of anime model kits. Building a Master Grade (MG) kit is challenging when you have no experience. However, the right tools, detailing, and equipment will turn your model-building hobby into joy at any level. So, let me share the top tools you need for each anime model kit grade.
Entry-Level Recommendations
Standard-grade and entry-level anime model kits are the beginner’s choice. However, it sure helps to have a few tools and extras to make model-building easier and more satisfying. Therefore, I recommend finding these tools to help you build entry-level model kits:
- A Model Builder’s Cutting Mat keeps clutter away and protects the surface underneath your model.
- Model Kit Nippers allow you to cut pieces off the runners without much effort.
- A Panel Line Pen helps you add details without painting the model, getting into the most delicate corners.
- Various Gundam Assembly Markers allow you to add color to models without painting them. So, you get metallic colors or plain colors.
Bonus: Model Kit Effect Packs are incredible to enhance your displays with the finished model. You also get white or transparent model effect packs if you’re up to painting them. Alternatively, use the markers to color them. For example, you could make it look like your finished models are attacking each other.
Intermediate Recommendations
Intermediate anime model kits bring a more significant challenge. In addition, hobbyists enjoy challenging themselves to make the models look even better when they’re finished. Therefore, I can recommend a few added tools and extras to make your experience worthwhile:
- Kotobukiya Model Support Bases stabilize the model and display it in fun positions.
- A Model Kit Hobby Knife will also help you eliminate the nubs and rough edges.
- Sandpaper and filing tools can also help you smoothen the nubs and flashes on your model.
Bonus: Model Kit Workstations can refine your work by helping you keep the models still while you use the other tools. Working on the models can be challenging when they don’t stop moving around. However, mistakes are common. Alternatively, you can look for an All-In-One Model Building Workstation.
Advanced Recommendations
Advanced hobbyists can have all the tools already mentioned. Still, some more add value to the hobby of model kit building. For example, advanced hobbyists challenge themselves to delicate paintwork and other techniques to improve the models. So, I recommend adding these extras:
- Acrylic Paint is the best for anime model kits, and you’ll find fantastic colors.
- A Portable Airbrush Kit can help you enjoy the art of painting models in less time. In addition, you get acrylic paint sets for airbrush kits.
- Miniature Paintbrush Kits help in refining the most delicate paintwork on models.
- Model Kit Weathering Sets allow you to add wear and tear to any model you wish.
- Model Scribing Tools allow you to customize the model’s design by carving new lines.
Bonus: Even advanced hobbyists can use inspiration. The Gundam Great Mechanics Mook Book is an inspirational guide for advanced model kit hobbyists looking to use the abovementioned tools. It shows you tricks to weather the models, color them, and use an airbrush.
How I Selected the Best Anime Model Kits
Finally, let’s get to the good part of why you’re here. So, I picked the best anime model kits through an uncomplicated rule because too many exist. So, I wanted the best anime model kit from the popular types. However, the winning pick relies on two simple rules:
- The best model kit would depend entirely on my preferences about which character I enjoy the most.
- I want a variety of model kits that appeal to various hobbyists. So, I’ll look for multiple skills and grades to ensure every beginner, intermediate, and advanced hobbyist finds a new toy.
Best Anime Model Kits Guide: Top Picks
Finally, I’m excited to share my ultimate anime model kit recommendations. Remember that I’ll add various skill levels and grades, which you can scan for in the features sections. Furthermore, I’ll give you the basics of each model kit and gid into the pros and cons to leave no stone unturned.
ACT Mode Maple Machine God Version Model Kit
ACT mode model kits show beautiful women wrapped in machine-style weaponry or mechanical suits. Nothing screams anime more than pretty girls with weapons and deadly ambitions, of which this model kit is both. Turning Maple into a god version with super-deadly weapons will do the trick for avid anime hobbyists.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 1
- Size/Scale: 6.3″
- Inspiration: Bofuri’s Maple
Anime Model Kit Pros
- The Maple figure is movable and attaches easily to the weapon’s system
- The pieces are pre-painted for beginners
- You can alternate between machine god mode and the hydra equipment
Anime Model Kit Cons
- The model kit looks challenging but won’t suit experienced hobbyists
- You can’t customize the model
ATK Girl Azure Dragon Scale Model Kit
The ATK Girl model kit comes from Chinese mythology blended with anime inspiration. The action figure within the easy-to-build model kit wears dragon armor to make her look dangerous. In addition, the series includes various other model kits you can add to the Azure Dragon. It’s a gorgeous model kit for beginner hobbyists.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 1
- Size/Scale: 1/12 scale
- Inspiration: Chinese mythology and various anime
Anime Model Kit Pros
- The Azure Dragon model kit has pre-painted pieces
- The figure is movable and includes various interchangeable pieces
- It’s the ideal model kit for new hobbyists
Anime Model Kit Cons
- It’s not challenging enough for experienced hobbyists
- It doesn’t come from a specific anime series (it looks more like an anime model kit)
Digimon Omegamon X-Anti-Body Figure-Rise Model Kit
Bandai has a simpler model kit range called Figure Rise, which includes Digimon and other anime series characters in beginner’s-styled kits. However, the Emegamon model kit isn’t the easiest build and would better appeal to intermediate hobbyists with some experience. Nevertheless, beginners can take on this challenge.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 2
- Size/Scale: 7.8″
- Inspiration: Digimon
Anime Model Kit Pros
- The Digimon model kit offers customization
- It can work for determined beginners who want to gain experience
- The finished model has extensive articulation for fun positions
Anime Model Kit Cons
- Not all beginners would enjoy this model kit
- You can’t customize the paintwork
Evangelion Mechagodzilla Type 3 Kiryu Eva Model Kit
My favorite Evangelion model kit is a combination of the brand and Godzilla. Admittedly, it’s an insane design with impressive details. The model kit combines Mechagodzilla’s mechanically insane design with Eva-1 Evangelion’s color configuration for a new, modern twist on the range. I would enjoy this model kit.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 2
- Size/Scale: 9.5″
- Inspiration: Evangelion & Godzilla vs. Mechagodzilla
Anime Model Kit Pros
- The Mechagodzilla Evangelion model kit is a crossover for duel fans
- The model kit appeals to beginners with some experience
- The details are pretty impressive on the teeth and back
Anime Model Kit Cons
- It doesn’t have customizable features
- Anime hobbyists won’t always enjoy crossover models
Frame Arms Girl Architect Nipako Version Model Kit
Frame Arms Girl is a famous anime model kit range with gorgeous girls dressed in armor and destruction. Anime enthusiasts love this combination. In addition, the Nipako character is a Kotobukiya original character that appears in the shows. She looks like a mean designer for intermediate hobbyists.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 3
- Size/Scale: 8″
- Inspiration: Frame Arms Girl
Anime Model Kit Pros
- The Frame Arms Girl model kit includes various accessories
- You can customize the model with interchangeable pieces
- This model is excellent for intermediate hobbyists
Anime Model Kit Cons
- The kit doesn’t work well for beginners
- The character originates from the model kits before the series
GaoGaiGar Cross-Frame Girl King of Braves Model Kit
GaoGaiGar is another famous anime-inspired range of model kits with unusual characters. The anime isn’t well-known, but the model kits make the show more popular. In addition, this model shows another crossover with Frame Arms Girl styles. The blend also comes from adding mecha armor to a pretty anime girl.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 2
- Size/Scale: 6.9″
- Inspiration: GaoGaiGar: The King of Braves
Anime Model Kit Pros
- The GaoGaiGar model kit better suits beginners with some experience
- You can customize the model with different mecha armor
- She comes with interchangeable pieces for added fun
Anime Model Kit Cons
- It’s another confusing anime model kit with multiple inspirations
- The model doesn’t work for advanced hobbyists
Ginga Hyouryuu Vifam Toranfam Beige Version Scale Model Kit
The Ginga Hyouryuu Vifam animated series brings the first true challenger to the front. This beige-colored model requires a lot of work. In addition, it’s the ideal model kit for testing your new airbrush paints. I would turn this model into an advanced hobbyist’s metallic finish. You can also carve and customize it.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 4
- Size/Scale: 1/144 scale
- Inspiration: Ginga Hyouryuu Vifam
Anime Model Kit Pros
- It’s a great challenge for advanced hobbyists
- You can customize this model more than most
- It comes from a specific anime series and has accessories
Anime Model Kit Cons
- The model doesn’t appeal to beginners
- The customization is super complicated
Gundam Gunpla Barbataurus HG Model Kit
Gundam has some of the best model kits for anime enthusiasts. In addition, it’s an anime series that perfectly matches the model kits because they go hand-in-hand. The Barbataurus looks like a mean machine I’d love to build. However, I would say my hobbyist experience is within the intermediate range.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: HG
- Size/Scale: 1/144 scale
- Inspiration: Gundam
Anime Model Kit Pros
- This Gundam model kit is ideal for advanced hobbyists
- It’s a brilliant scale model with intricate work
- You can customize some parts, and it has accessories
Anime Model Kit Cons
- Don’t attempt it as a beginner
- You can’t customize the colors
Kotobukiya Megami Device Bullet Knights Launcher Model Kit
The Megami Device model kits don’t always focus on specific anime series. Instead, this model combines the Bishoujo anime-styled girl with a device called Bullet Knights Launcher. I love that some anime model kits aren’t from specific series because they allow anime enthusiasts to enjoy versatile characters.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 3
- Size/Scale: 13.5″
- Inspiration: Bishoujo anime girls
Anime Model Kit Pros
- This model kit focuses on an anime style and not a show
- The armor looks insane, and it offers an excellent challenge
- You can reconfigure the model in various modes
Anime Model Kit Cons
- The Bishoujo-styled girl isn’t specific to any anime
- Some enthusiasts don’t love non-specific anime characters
Moderoid Dynazenon Model Kit
Moderoids are similar to Nendoroids if you know them. These model kits focus on anime characters, making them ideal for this featured list. I’ve seen One-Piece and My Hero Academia Moderoid kits. In addition, the Moderoid collection is ultra-customizable, allowing hobbyists to convert the models to other modes.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 4
- Size/Scale: 6.5″
- Inspiration: SSSS Dynazenon
Anime Model Kit Pros
- The Moderoid model kit is a famous new line
- The kits offer excellent challenges with interchangeable parts
- They can convert from one mode to another
Anime Model Kit Cons
- Moderoid model kits don’t suit beginners
- These model kits come from various anime series
Sousa Shojo Teien Ritsuka Saeki Winter School Uniform Model Kit
The Sousa Shojo Teien model kits bring more Bishoujo-styled anime girls to life. However, these girls come from a specific anime series. Ritsuka Saeki is the ideal model kit for beginners who enjoy anime-styled girls. She has pre-painted parts and doesn’t require much work, even though she has various accessories.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 1
- Size/Scale: 1/10
- Inspiration: St. Iris Girls High School
Anime Model Kit Pros
- It’s the ideal set for anime model kit beginners
- She can combine with a Megami Device for more experienced hobbyists
- She includes many accessories and interchangeable parts
Anime Model Kit Cons
- The model kit doesn’t work for experienced hobbyists
- The anime series isn’t well-known
Suyata Hunter’s Poem Arya Scale Model Kit
Suyata’s models include some snap-together kits. Arya, her motorcycle, and the dog have easy snap pieces for beginners. However, the elements will challenge you slightly. It’s another highly unusual but popular model kit among anime enthusiasts. I’m a biker. So, I would always choose a kit with one.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 1
- Size/Scale: 1/12 scale
- Inspiration: The Hunter’s Poem
Anime Model Kit Pros
- You get to build three models
- It’s ideal for beginners to gain experience
- You get various replacement parts and accessories
Anime Model Kit Cons
- It’s not a well-known anime series
- It doesn’t appeal to experienced hobbyists
Yu-Gi-Oh Cross Frame Girl Dark Magician Model Kit
Yu-Gi-Oh is a classic anime series many fans know well. So, it’s good to add some classics to the mix. In addition, this is another crossover with Frame Arms Girl, but the Dark Magician model comes from Yu-Gi-Oh. The stylization comes from the Frame Arms Girl series. This model is another joy for beginners.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 1
- Size/Scale: 7.3″
- Inspiration: Yu-Gi-Oh
Anime Model Kit Pros
- The Yu-Gi-Oh model kit is a beginner’s dream
- The model comes from a specific anime series
- It includes various accessories and interchangeable pieces
Anime Model Kit Cons
- It’s not the best kit for experienced hobbyists
- It’s another crossover some hobbyists might not enjoy
Zoids Highend Master RBOZ-003 Gojulas Ogre Model Kit
Finally, I reached the ultimate anime model kit on my to-do list. Fortunately, I’m up for the challenge, even if this model takes me months to finish. The Highend Master series of Zoids model kits are graded for skill level five hobbyists because they contain thousands of pieces. However, they’re massive anime beauties.
Anime Model Kit Features
- Skill/Grade: Level 5
- Size/Scale: 14.6″
- Inspiration: Zoids
Anime Model Kit Pros
- This kit is the ultimate challenge for anime hobbyists
- It includes thousands of pieces and interchangeable parts
- You can customize and transform the build a lot
Anime Model Kit Cons
- It’s not suited to beginner hobbyists
- This model kit requires patience and experience
FAQs
Question: Which Anime Series Model Kits Are Popular?
Answer: Anime model kits from specific shows include various popular options. For example, One-Piece Model Kits are trending among beginner hobbyists. In addition, the Entry-Grade My Hero Academia Model Kits are brilliant for new anime hobbyists. Unfortunately, these model kits don’t appeal to experienced anime hobbyists.
Question: Which Anime Figures Model Kits Are Popular?
Answer: Anime figures model kits include Figure-Rise options and Bishoujo anime girls. The Digimon Adventure Beezlemon Model Kit is an example of Figure-Rise options. Meanwhile, the Bullet Knight Launcher Model Kit uses a stylization called Bishoujo, a pretty, non-specific anime girl. So, the figures differ slightly.
Question: Which Brand Makes the Best Anime Model Kits?
Answer: I have two favorites. Kotobuyika makes incredible anime figure model kits. In addition, you can find support kits to add to the models. For example, Kotobukiya’s Support Model Kit allows you to weaponize the models further. However, my second favorite is Bandai’s Evangelion and Gundam model kits.
I love Bandai’s model kits because they have easy-to-understand gradings for various skill-level hobbyists. For example, a standard grade (SG) would work for beginners. Meanwhile, a master-grade (MG) model kit appeals better to advanced hobbyists. Finally, the brand makes brilliant mechanical models from anime series.
Best Anime Model Kits Guide: Conclusion
The anime model kit universe is multi-layered and confusing if you don’t have a simple guide to help. So, double-check my anime model kit types, crossovers, grades, and more to ensure you have the best model for your skill levels. In addition, use my recommended tools to help you build an expert model.
Meanwhile, I picked the best model kits for every popular anime and crossover model kit series available. So, you can select the ultimate challenge for your skill level and buy the kit of your dreams. I recommend the Zoids Highend Master RBOZ-003 Gojulas Ogre Model Kit for any experienced hobbyists with challenges in mind.
I haven’t ordered my Zoids challenge yet, but it’s on my list once I spend more money on my hobby. Furthermore, I welcome the challenge because it’s time I move from an intermediate to an advanced hobbyist. Therefore, I invite you to take on your next challenge by buying the most appropriate anime model kit today.
For more epic model kits
Best Star Wars Model Kits for Galactic Flights – Avid Collectibles
Best Transformers Model Kits: Medium Difficulty – Avid Collectibles
Best Bandai Model Kits Guide for Gundam Fans – Avid Collectibles
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