What Is Gundam Assemble? A Beginner’s Guide

Gundam Assemble combines model building, miniature painting and competitive tabletop play in one Gundam experience.

Players assemble approximately 5 cm miniatures representing Mobile Suits and other units from across the Gundam series. These miniatures then form squads that battle across a game board using movement, actions, terrain and dice-based combat.

For anyone discovering the game for the first time, Gundam Assemble Starter Set 01 provides the core miniatures and game components needed to begin playing introductory 3-on-3 battles.

TL;DR

• Gundam Assemble is a competitive miniature tabletop game.

• Players assemble and can paint approximately 5 cm Gundam miniatures.

• Starter Set 01 includes six Mobile Suit miniatures.

• The set supports an introductory three-unit-versus-three-unit format.

• It also includes cards, dice, terrain, tokens, a game map and reference materials.

• Paint and a brush are not listed among the Starter Set contents.

• The separately available Paint Pack 01 includes three more miniatures, four paints, a brush and additional game components.

• Additional products can expand the collection as players become familiar with the game.

What Is Gundam Assemble?

Gundam Assemble is a competitive tabletop game featuring Mobile Suits and other units from the Gundam universe.

It’s basically combining the enjoyment of assembling and painting miniatures with strategic, squad-based battles. Terrain plays a role on the game board, while players choose movements and actions before resolving attacks with dice.

The game also brings together Mobile Suits from different Gundam series and timelines, allowing fans to create crossover squads and matchups.

This gives players several ways to enjoy the hobby:

• Assemble Gundam miniatures

• Paint and customise a squad

• Collect Mobile Suits from different Gundam series

• Learn a squad-based tabletop game

• Create original Gundam matchups

• Expand the collection with additional products

Is Gundam Assemble the Same as Gunpla?

Gundam Assemble and Gunpla both involve assembling Gundam models, but they are designed around different experiences.

Gunpla generally focuses on building, customising and displaying a model. Gundam Assemble uses smaller, approximately 5 cm miniatures that also function as playing pieces in a tabletop game.

Bandai describes the miniatures as capturing the enjoyment of plastic model kits while adding squad-based gameplay.

Gunpla builders may enjoy the assembly and customisation side of Gundam Assemble, while tabletop players may be interested in its movement, terrain and combat systems.

Previous Gunpla experience is not a requirement. However, players should always follow the official assembly instructions supplied with the product.

What Comes in Gundam Assemble Starter Set 01?

Starter Set 01 contains six miniatures:

• RX-78-2 Gundam

• Char’s Zaku II

• Wing Gundam Zero EW

• Gundam Epyon

• Gundam Barbatos Lupus Rex

• Gundam Vidar

The set also includes:

• Six unit cards

• 18 tactics cards

• Two scenario objective cards

• One game map

• One set of cardboard terrain objects

• One set of dice

• One set of game tokens

• One handbook

• Two quick-reference rule sheets

The Gundam Assemble Starter Set 01 is a comprehensive package containing what is needed to start playing.

Product contents and specifications can change, so customers should also check the current product listing and packaging.

How Do You Start Playing Gundam Assemble?

Starter Set 01 supports an introductory three-unit-versus-three-unit battle. Each player controls a squad of Mobile Suits and competes to earn Victory Points by defeating enemy units, controlling Objectives and completing the chosen scenario.

Understanding the Timeline

Gundam Assemble does not use a simple “my whole squad, then your whole squad” turn structure. Instead, every Mobile Suit has a token on the Timeline Track.

When a unit performs a Primary Action, its token usually moves forward along the Timeline. The cost of that action determines how long the unit must wait before it can activate again.

This creates an important tactical decision: a powerful attack may have a higher Timeline cost, while a less expensive action could allow the unit to return sooner.

What Can a Unit Do?

When one of your Mobile Suits activates, it can perform the following in any order:

• Advance

• Take one Primary Action

• Use an eligible Command Ability

• Play a Tactics Card

The unit must take one Primary Action during its activation.

The four Primary Actions are:

• Attack: Use one of the weapons shown on the unit card.

• Dash: Spend two Timeline points to move two additional hexes.

• Energise: Spend two Timeline points to gain one Energy token for weapons or abilities that require Energy.

• Rescue: Spend two Timeline points to rescue an adjacent friendly Garrison when the scenario allows it.

Moving Around the Battlefield

A unit can normally Advance up to three hexes during its activation. You can move in any direction, but terrain, enemy units and other battlefield features may restrict the route.

Only one unit can occupy a hex at a time. Your Mobile Suit may move through a hex occupied by an allied unit, but it cannot move through an enemy unit.

This makes positioning important. You may need to choose between moving towards an Objective, finding a better attack position or preventing an opponent from advancing.

How Attacks Work

To attack, choose a weapon from the active unit’s card and check that the target is within the weapon’s listed range.

The weapon’s Strength tells you how many attack dice to roll:

1. Roll one attack die for each point of Strength.

2. Every result of 4 or higher counts as a hit.

3. Each hit normally deals one point of damage to the target’s Hit Points.

4. A roll of 9 or 10 is a Critical Hit and activates the weapon’s listed Critical Hit effect.

After the attack, move the unit’s token forward on the Timeline by the weapon’s listed Timeline cost. A stronger attack may deal more damage, but it could also delay that Mobile Suit’s next activation.

Abilities and Tactics Cards

Mobile Suits and weapons can have abilities that change how they move, attack or support the squad. These include:

• Command Abilities, used during the unit’s activation when their conditions are met

• Ongoing Abilities, which remain active while their conditions apply

• Response Abilities, which can trigger when their stated conditions are met

Each player also begins with three cards drawn from a nine-card Tactics deck. These cards can support units, create tactical advantages or provide additional ways to earn Victory Points.

How Do You Win?

Most scenarios award Victory Points for a combination of:

• Defeating enemy Mobile Suits

• Controlling Objectives

• Rescuing friendly Garrisons

• Defeating enemy Garrisons

• Completing scenario-specific goals

An Objective is controlled when one player has more units surrounding it than their opponent at the end of the round. Controlled Objectives can then award Victory Points at the end of the Phase.

This means the battle is not simply about eliminating the opposing squad. A player who positions their units carefully and completes the scenario objectives can outscore an opponent with more defeated units.

A Simple Example Activation

Your RX-78-2 Gundam activates. You Advance it towards a nearby Objective, bringing an enemy Mobile Suit within weapon range.

You choose Attack as the Primary Action, select an eligible weapon and roll the number of dice shown by its Strength. After resolving the hits and any Critical Hit effects, you move the RX-78-2 Gundam’s token forward on the Timeline by the weapon’s listed cost.

The Timeline then determines which Mobile Suit activates next.

That is the basic Gundam Assemble gameplay loop: position your units, choose the right action, manage the Timeline and score Victory Points before your opponent.

Bandai’s official Gundam Assemble Quick Play Guide provides an additional introduction to the basic gameplay. The supplied handbook and latest official rules should remain the main reference.

Can You Paint Gundam Assemble Miniatures?

Painting is one of the hobby elements promoted as part of the Gundam Assemble experience.

Paint and a brush are not listed among the contents of Starter Set 01. Players who want to customise the included miniatures will need separate painting supplies.

For a dedicated starting option, Hobbyco offers Gundam Assemble Paint Pack 01.

What Comes in Gundam Assemble Paint Pack 01?

Paint Pack 01 includes:

• Three Gundam Assemble miniatures

• Three unit cards

• Nine tactics cards

• One set of game tokens

• Four exclusive Gundam Assemble paints

• One paintbrush

This makes Paint Pack 01 more than a collection of painting supplies. It also adds three miniatures and their accompanying game components to a Gundam Assemble collection.

Always follow the instructions and safety information supplied with the paints.

Beginner Painting Tips

These are general hobby suggestions rather than official gameplay rules.

Start With the Supplied Colours

Use the four paints in Paint Pack 01 to become familiar with painting Gundam Assemble miniatures before adding more colours or advanced techniques.

Apply Controlled Coats

Use a small amount of paint and build the colour gradually. Avoid covering fine sculpted details with one heavy coat.

Follow the instructions supplied with the paint regarding preparation, application, drying and cleaning.

Focus on Key Areas

Beginners can start with larger armour panels, weapons and recognisable details. More advanced shading, highlighting and weathering can be explored later.

Let Paint Dry Between Steps

Allow each painted area to dry according to the product instructions before handling it or applying another colour.

Follow Product Safety Information

Use paints and tools only as directed. Observe all age recommendations, ventilation guidance and safety warnings supplied with the products.

Beginner Tips for Starter Set 01

Begin With the Introductory Format

Start with the official minimum configuration of three units against three units. This keeps the number of miniatures manageable while learning.

Use the Current Rules

Game terminology and detailed procedures should always come from the supplied handbook or the latest official Bandai guidance.

Keep Components Organised

Keep each miniature close to its corresponding unit card and organise tokens before beginning. This is practical setup advice rather than an official rule.

Use the Quick-Reference Sheets

Keep the two supplied quick-reference sheets visible during early games. There is no need to memorise every part of the game immediately.

Learn Before Expanding

Starter Set 01 already contains six miniatures and the core game components. Use it to learn the basic experience before deciding which additional products suit your interests.

Explore Both Sides of the Hobby

Some players may be most interested in painting and customisation. Others may prefer squad-building and gameplay. Starter Set 01 and Paint Pack 01 provide different ways to explore both sides of Gundam Assemble.

How Can You Expand After Starter Set 01?

The wider Gundam Assemble collection includes different product formats. Availability may vary between online and Hobbyco stores.

Paint Pack 01

Paint Pack 01 is a practical next step for players interested in painting and customisation.

It includes four paints and a brush while adding three miniatures, unit cards, tactics cards and tokens to the collection.

Expansion Packs

Expansion Packs provide additional Gundam Assemble products for players growing their collections.

Check each product listing for its confirmed miniatures, cards and other contents. Do not assume that an Expansion Pack contains everything required to play independently.

Deluxe Sets

Deluxe Sets provide another way to broaden a Gundam Assemble collection.

Contents differ between sets, so review the individual product information before deciding which one suits your collection or gameplay interests.

Who May Enjoy Gundam Assemble?

Gundam Assemble may appeal to:

• Gundam fans interested in tabletop battles

• Gunpla builders curious about smaller gaming miniatures

• Miniature painters looking for Gundam subjects

• Tabletop players interested in squad-based combat

• Collectors interested in Mobile Suits from different Gundam series

• Beginners looking for a packaged entry point into the game

Gundam Assemble is intended for ages 15 and over.

Gundam Assemble FAQs

What is Gundam Assemble?

Gundam Assemble is a tactical miniature tabletop game featuring Mobile Suits from across the Gundam franchise. Players assemble a squad, move their miniatures across a hex-based battlefield and earn Victory Points through combat and scenario objectives.

Is Starter Set 01 suitable for beginners?

Yes. Starter Set 01 is designed as a packaged entry point into Gundam Assemble. It includes six miniatures and the core components required to learn and play an introductory battle.

Can two people play using one Starter Set 01?

Yes. Starter Set 01 includes six miniatures, supporting an introductory three-unit-versus-three-unit battle between two players.

What is included in Starter Set 01?

Starter Set 01 includes:

• Six Gundam Assemble miniatures

• Unit and Tactics cards

• Terrain pieces

• Attack dice

• Game tokens

• A game map

• A handbook

• Quick-reference sheets

Check the product listing and supplied contents guide for the complete current component list.

Which Mobile Suits are included in Starter Set 01?

Starter Set 01 includes six miniatures representing Mobile Suits from different Gundam series:

• RX-78-2 Gundam

• Wing Gundam Zero

• Gundam Aerial

• Sazabi

• Graze

• Strike Freedom Gundam

Do I need previous Gunpla or tabletop gaming experience?

No previous Gunpla or miniature gaming experience is required. Starter Set 01 provides assembly instructions, gameplay references and the components needed to learn the introductory format.

New players can begin with the basic movement, attack and objective rules before exploring more advanced abilities and squad-building options.

Is painting required before I can play?

No. Painting is an optional part of the customisation experience and is not required for gameplay.

You can assemble the miniatures and begin playing, then paint or further customise your squad later.

Does Starter Set 01 include paint?

No. Paint and a paintbrush are not included in Starter Set 01.

Players who want to begin customising their miniatures can purchase Gundam Assemble Paint Pack 01 separately.

What is included in Paint Pack 01?

Paint Pack 01 contains:

• Four exclusive Gundam Assemble paints

• One paintbrush

• Three miniatures

• Three corresponding unit cards

• Nine Tactics cards

• A set of game tokens

This makes it both a painting set and an expansion for your Gundam Assemble collection.

How does a Gundam Assemble turn work?

When a Mobile Suit activates, it may Advance, take one Primary Action, use an eligible Command Ability and play a Tactics Card.

The available Primary Actions are Attack, Dash, Energize and Rescue. The action taken normally moves the unit’s token forward on the Timeline, determining when it can activate again.

How are attacks resolved?

Choose an eligible weapon from the unit card and check that the target is within range. Roll a number of attack dice equal to the weapon’s Strength.

Each roll of 4 or higher counts as a hit. A result of 9 or 10 is a Critical Hit and activates the Critical Hit effect listed for that weapon.

What is the Timeline?

The Timeline Track determines when each Mobile Suit activates.

Actions have different Timeline costs. After taking an action, the unit’s token moves forward by the required amount. A powerful attack may be effective immediately but could delay that unit’s next activation.

Managing the Timeline is therefore an important part of planning your squad’s actions.

How do you win a Gundam Assemble battle?

Most scenarios award Victory Points for:

• Defeating enemy units

• Controlling battlefield Objectives

• Rescuing friendly Garrisons

• Defeating enemy Garrisons

• Completing scenario-specific goals

The player with the most Victory Points at the end of the battle normally wins.

Is Gundam Assemble only about defeating the opposing squad?

No. Combat is important, but scenarios can also reward positioning, Objective control, Garrison actions and mission-specific achievements.

A player can potentially win through better movement and Objective play, even if their opponent defeats more units.

Can Mobile Suits from different Gundam series be used together?

Most scenarios allow players to build squads using Mobile Suits from different Gundam series and factions, provided the squad follows the requirements of the selected scenario.

This allows players to create matchups and team combinations that would not normally appear together in Gundam’s original stories.

What age is Gundam Assemble recommended for?

Gundam Assemble products are intended for ages 15 and over.

What should I buy after Starter Set 01?

Paint Pack 01 is a useful next step if you want to begin painting while adding three more miniatures and additional game components.

Expansion Packs and Deluxe Sets can then provide more Mobile Suits and squad-building options as your collection grows.

Where can I learn the full Gundam Assemble rules?

Begin with the handbook and quick-reference sheets included in Starter Set 01.

You can also watch Bandai’s official Gundam Assemble Quick Play Guide for an introduction to the gameplay. The latest official Core Rulebook should be used when you need complete rules or clarification.

Build, Paint and Battle Your Gundam Squad

Gundam Assemble gives Gundam fans a way to assemble miniatures, personalise a squad and take those units into tabletop battle.

Starter Set 01 brings together six recognisable Mobile Suits and the core components for learning the introductory 3-on-3 format.

Paint Pack 01 provides a dedicated way to begin customising miniatures while adding three more units and their accompanying game components.

Follow the supplied instructions, consult the latest official rules and take the experience one step at a time.

Explore Gundam Assemble at Hobbyco