Gunpla builders, you can finally go in. Mall of America has posted the grand opening for the Bandai Namco Cross Store and THE GUNDAM BASE. It runs Friday, Oct. 30, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m., and it's free to attend. The mall's listing is aimed squarely at "anime fans, collectors + model builders" and promises "a special opening free gift promotion while supplies last."
Some fans already had a date circled. The stores were supposed to open Sept. 30, but Bandai postponed it just days before and never publicly said why. Oct. 30 is the replacement date.
Expect shelves of GUNPLA model kits for every skill level, plus exclusives, life-size displays and community events. It's the second U.S. location. The first opened in Chicago on Dec. 12, 2025. The Cross Store gathers a batch of official Bandai shops under 1 roof, with character goods, toys, games, collectibles, stationery and plush.
The mall hasn't said exactly what the free gifts are. When Bandai announced the original opening, it listed these perks while supplies last: a free branded tote bag with any purchase at the Cross Store, and a clear GUNDAM BASE fanny pack with purchases of $100 or more. Bandai also named 3 limited-edition kits: an MG 1/100 RX-78-2 Ver. 3.0 and a HaroPla Haro, both in GUNDAM BASE colors, and a clear RG 1/144 Wing Gundam Zero EW. Bandai hasn't confirmed whether all of that carries over to the new date. If you're after the fanny pack or a specific kit, get there early, and don't plan on the extras still being around at 8 p.m.
After opening day, Bandai lists regular hours of 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Sunday.
