Two games, two ways to play
| Question | Gundam Assemble | Gundam Card Game |
|---|---|---|
| Play space | Hex map and terrain | Card play areas |
| Main pieces | Miniatures and unit cards | A constructed card deck |
| Combat system | Timeline, positioning and d10 rolls | Card Game phases and card effects |
| ST01 identity | Assemble Starter Set 01 | Heroic Beginnings starter deck |
Why some card boxes include miniatures
Bandai released collaboration products that pair a Card Game starter deck with small Assemble models. The models can support the Card Game's token presentation, while Assemble uses its own unit profiles, Tactics cards, map and dice.
Owning a miniature from a Card Game box does not by itself provide an Assemble starter. Before planning a session, check that you have its corresponding Assemble unit data, all shared game materials and the scenario you intend to play.
Can models be used as Card Game tokens?
The Card Game's published tournament guidance permits Assemble miniatures on top of appropriate token cards, subject to an event's rules. Keep the underlying token card; a model alone does not replace the card where the rules require one.
Use the Card Game's rules for a Card Game event. For an Assemble event, use the Assemble rules and that event's participation requirements. A rule about token cards does not establish Assemble squad-building legality.
How to identify the right product
- Read the complete title, not just the ST number or the Assemble logo.
- Look for map, terrain, ten-sided dice and Assemble unit cards when shopping for a full miniatures starter.
- Look for a Card Game deck and the Card Game logo when shopping for the TCG.
- Check the official unit list for the miniature's specific Assemble card identifier.
- Ask the store which game its event is running before buying an entry product.
Which game should you start with?
Choose Assemble if your main interest is building and painting a small squad, moving around terrain and playing a physical scenario. Choose the Card Game if deck construction and card-game play are your main interest. There is no need to buy into both games to begin with one.
For Assemble, ST01 includes the shared materials for two players. For the Card Game, follow its own starter and deck requirements. Treat similarly named products as separate purchases rather than interchangeable editions.