If you’ve ever fancied yourself blasting through the cosmos in a Zaku suit, or perhaps rallying the legendary Zeon forces to outmaneuver the Federation, you’re in luck. The Gundam Card Game, bursting onto the scene like a rogue meteor, presents its latest attraction: the Zeon’s Rush starter deck (ST03). Whether you are a rookie commander or a seasoned strategic mastermind of the cosmos, this deck is ready to deliver an interstellar thrill ride without the risk of dodging actual beam sabers or bazooka blasts.
Embarking on this space-faring journey, you can choose between two versions of the ST03 deck: the Standard Edition—perfect for those eager to dive into battle—and the Special Edition, for the lavishly inclined who appreciate those extra touches that would make even a Newtype blush.
The Standard Edition is essentially a space-ready shuttle with all systems go. The package consists of a 50-card deck, primed and prepped for those high-stakes skirmishes. You also get ten Resource Cards, which definitely beat diverting all power to the thrusters when engaging your enemies. Eight indispensable Token Cards are on hand, because in the strategy-laden universe of Gundam, a little backup often goes a long way. To keep track of your slings and arrows, a trusty paper damage counter; and for those whose understanding of Gundam warfare is still developing, a rule and playsheet to ensure you’re not flying blind.
To add a sprinkle of sparkle to the deck, each box comes with a bonus pack containing a full-art holographic card—the kind of card that makes other cards stare longingly, wishing they, too, had that shimmer.
For those who lean towards extravagance, the Special Edition ramp things up. Alongside all the goodies in the Standard package, it boasts three Gundam Assemble miniatures, adding an extra layer of majesty to your table or desk as they stand proudly and silently command respect. Among these miniatures are TP-006: Char’s Zaku II, TP-007A: Zaku II (Heat Hawk), and TP-007B: Zaku II (Hyper Bazooka)—ideal for some impromptu desktop battle reenactments.
Now, let’s get to the meat of this celestial sandwich: the cards. Zeon’s Rush centers on Red and Green colors, showcasing Char Aznable’s legendary Zeon commanders and Full Frontal’s Neo Zeon troops, straight from Mobile Suit Gundam and Gundam Unicorn. There’s a generous dose of Zaku action included—as they say, you can never have too many Zakus.
The Common cards—a veritable who’s who of the Zeon force—include Angelo’s Geara Zulu [AMS-129] and the notorious Gazan D (Sleeves) [AMX-006], painting the deck in shades of vibrant Red. The starter deck also pays homage to Char Aznable—”the Red Comet himself”—as a commanding Green pilot card. And let’s not forget Ramba Ral, featured as “The Blue Giant,” ensuring the deck isn’t just a onslaught, but a charismatic militia.
For those with a penchant for mystery, the allure of Legendary Rares remains shrouded in secrecy. As can be expected with Zeon, a few surprises are tucked up their ample sleeves, guaranteeing the thrill of discovery remains alive and kicking.
The deck also includes three exclusive miniatures for the Special Edition buyers, providing physical manifestations of their digital counterparts. These figures don’t only make for excellent conversation starters, but they’re the next best thing to commandeering your own mobile suit.
Zeon’s Rush is not just a deck; it’s an experience that fills the gap between gaming and living your Gundam fantasy. It merges the history of the Gundam universe with the tactile thrill of strategic card gaming, wrapped in the prospect of leading your team to victory as if Char Aznable himself was overseeing your moves.
To all budding pilots and seasoned strategists: it’s time to shuffle your deck, don your helmets, and step up to the challenge. Remember, the thrill of victory awaits amidst the stars. Sieg Zeon!
