Free-to-Play Hero Shooter ‘Gundam Evolution’ Coming West Later in 2022; Closed Network Test Planned for April

Bandai Namco announced that they will develop a new hero shooter titled Gundam Evolution for PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, Xbox Series X, and PC.

The publisher reveals that Gundam Evolution will be a free-to-play 6v6 hero shooter, the first in the mech action series. Further, a Closed Network Test will take place on PC from April 7 through April 12, with a console test planned for the future. Those who want to take part in the PC Network Test can visit the Steam page or official Closet Network Test website between March 9 – March 28 and click on “Request Access” under Playtest to apply.

The starting roster of playable characters will feature 12 units, including RX-78-2 GUNDAM and ASW-G-08 GUNDAM BARBATOS. Additional mobile suits and customizable items can be unlocked in two ways: Capital Points (CP), which are accumulated in-game through gameplay, or EVO Coins, which will be available for real-world purchase.

The publisher also shared that players who purchase season passes unlock more cosmetic accessories as they progress, including mobile suit skins, weapon skins, and weapon charms.

“Rooted in the values of hope, peace, unity and victory, the essence of the Gundam brand is captured in full by Gundam Evolution,” said Kazuya Maruyama, Executive Producer at Bandai Namco Online. “We cannot wait for franchise veterans of all ages–whose Gundam fandom may have sparked at different points in the franchise’s 40-year history–and newcomers alike to unite on the Gundam Evolution battlefield and duke it out in their favorite mobile suits from across the Gundam Series and beyond!”

“Gundam Evolution strives to balance approachability and mastery, making it the perfect shooter for players of all skill levels to enjoy solo or with a group of friends,” said Ryota Hogaki, Gameplay Director at Bandai Namco Online. “With a variety of powerful mobile suits at their disposal, we hope players around the world will latch onto the thrill of epic mecha combat and fall in love with Gundam Evolution!”

We’ll keep you updated on the release of Gundam Evolution in the west.

You can watch the gameplay trailer and check out some screenshots below: