Bandai's LBX (Little Battlers eXperience) is a line of small plastic robot model kits derived from the "Danball Senki" franchise, a series of video games, anime, and manga created by Level-5. The franchise centers around miniature robots known as LBXs (Little Battler eXperience) that are built and battled by children within small dioramas called Battle Boxes. These models are notable for their customizability, detailed designs, and ease of assembly, making them popular among modelers of all ages.
Key Features of Bandai LBX Kits:
Ease of Assembly: LBX kits are designed to be easy to assemble, making them accessible to younger hobbyists or those new to model building. They typically snap together and don't require glue, similar to Bandai's Gunpla kits.
Customizability: A significant appeal of LBX models is their high level of customizability. Parts from different LBX kits can be mixed and matched, allowing builders to create their unique LBX designs. This feature is a core aspect of the "Danball Senki" series, where characters often customize their LBX for battles.
Articulation: Despite their small size, LBX models boast an impressive range of articulation. This allows for dynamic posing and recreates scenes from the anime or video games.
Detail and Accessories: LBX kits come with a variety of weapons and accessories, reflecting the equipment seen in the franchise. They also feature detailed stickers for added visual appeal.
Thematic Diversity: The LBX line includes a wide range of robot designs, from knight-like armors to animal-inspired robots and more futuristic suits. This diversity appeals to a broad audience with varying tastes in mecha design.
The "Danball Senki" Franchise:
The "Danball Senki" (literally "Cardboard War-Machines") franchise portrays a future where LBX robots have become the world's most popular form of entertainment. Children battle these robots against each other in dioramas called Battle Boxes using remote controls. The narrative often revolves around themes of friendship, competition, and the pursuit of becoming the top LBX battler. The series has been adapted into multiple video games, an anime television series, and manga, contributing to its popularity and the success of the LBX model line.
Bandai's LBX models stand out for their blend of playability, collectibility, and the joy of model building, offering a unique experience within the broader hobby of plastic modeling.
