キャプチャ25

Projection mapping is a big hit in Japan. Used at festivals and big events, the colourful and creative light shows project moving images onto buildings and objects, bringing them to life with accompanying music and drawing in adoring crowds.

The latest object getting the laser treatment in Japan is a life-size Gundam figure in Odaiba, Tokyo. While the figure has travelled around and been subject to projection mapping over the past few years, a new tie-in promotional product that has crowds going crazy. It’s a simple little box that, when used in conjunction with your smartphone or PSP, fills up with lasers, sparks and music in an amazing 3-D light show you’ll have to see to believe.

The actual event in Odaiba ran from March 21 to 23 and was stunning in itself, complete with a live DJ on an elevated platform which enhanced the huge scale of the figure.

And now let’s take a look at some of the images from the portable, take-home version. The same lines and colours are used to recreate the display in miniature form.

キャプチャ26

Seeing the unbelievable light show come to life in a simple little box that costs just 500 yen (US$4.88) has us wondering how on earth this magic spectacle is possible.

The visuals are so stunning you’d think the technology involved would be extraordinarily advanced. However, all that’s needed is a connection to a special site via your smartphone and a small, plain Gundam-shaped figure in a box.
gundam

The instructions show exactly how it’s done. First, tear the top off the little cardboard box, then take out the contents – a piece of plastic with a moulded figure of Gundam and another piece of clear, flat film. Place the moulded plastic at the back of the box, then fit the clear piece in front of it, at a 45 degree angle. Using the QR code on the side of the box, access the special site with your smartphone and then place the phone on top of the box. The visuals from the screen reflect off the plastic film, creating a holographic, 3-D effect.

gundamn2

While this particular version was a limited sale item created especially for the event in Odaiba, fans will be happy to hear that another two versions will be available at the same price point from April 16.

キャプチャ30

The contents in the new set includes that all-important piece of gum.

キャプチャ34

There are two characters to choose from: Gundam and Zaku II.

gundam3

gundam4

We can’t wait to see these two in action when they’re released. If toy maker Bandai keeps pushing the envelope like this and incorporating mobile technology into their products, who knows what lies in store for us in the future!

Source: Netorabu
Images: Amazon Japan Bandai Japan