Gaoranger SMP Storage Collection 02

The arrival of a new SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT (SMP) branch always merits close attention for serious collectors. Bandai Candy’s “Storage Collection” isn’t simply about miniature renditions; it’s a profound reinterpretation of form, a distillation of design. This particular wave, the SMP Storage Collection 02 and its companion EX02, promises an intriguing study in minimalist aesthetic.

The SMP Storage Collection 02, produced by Bandai Candy, features mecha from Hyakujuu Sentai Gaoranger. These assembly models are scheduled for an August 2026 release. The general release, SMP Storage Collection 02, is priced at 990 Japanese Yen (approx. $6.39 USD); the Premium Bandai exclusive SMP Storage Collection EX02 bundles three machines for 4,499 Japanese Yen (approx. $29.02 USD).

A Deeper Look at Monochromatic Form

This ‘Storage Collection’ line strips away the vibrant palette we associate with Super Sentai, presenting the Gaoranger mecha in singular, arresting tones. We see Gaoking, Gaohunter, and Gaomuscle rendered in either a soft light orange or a vivid clear bright yellow. This choice compels the eye to focus solely on the intricate sculpted details of each Power Animal, revealing the underlying strength of their original designs without the distraction of color. It’s a bold artistic statement, emphasizing the raw architectural beauty of these machines. This design approach transforms what could be a simple toy into a refined collectible, perfect for a curated display.

Complexity in Simplicity

While simplified in color, the general release SMP Storage Collection 02 units are far from basic. Bandai Candy has reportedly increased the part count by 42% compared to the first wave. This suggests a commitment to precise articulation and fidelity, allowing for authentic recreation of the Power Animals’ intricate detailing. The original series’ iconic arm-swapping mechanism also finds its way into these streamlined models, a nod to narrative accuracy and the customizable nature of the Gaoranger combat system. Such an increase in complexity within a simplified framework speaks to thoughtful engineering.

The EX02: Elevated Aesthetics and Narrative Depth

The Premium Bandai exclusive SMP Storage Collection EX02 takes this concept of artistic revision further. Here, the three central machines are cast in a metallic black finish. This dark, lustrous presentation transforms the mecha into something almost sculptural, hinting at a shadow version of their heroic forms. It truly feels like a collector’s piece, moving beyond mere replica to become an interpretive work. The metallic sheen itself provides a textural depth that single-color plastic cannot convey.

This EX set also includes unique weapons: the Fin Blade for Gaoking and the Alligator Sword for Gaohunter. Crucially, it provides the alternate lower body parts from Gaorhino and Gaorarmadillo. This means fans can finally assemble the “Soccer Gaoking” and “Soccer Gaomuscle” forms, an unexpected but delightful expansion of display options that adds significant narrative depth. Such specific, albeit niche, power-up configurations confirm Bandai’s deep understanding of its fanbase.

The Collector’s Survival Guide: How to Justify This

The Collector Math:

Considering the artistic merit of these monochromatic forms, the 990 Japanese Yen per unit is an investment in sculptural study. No other current Bandai product offers Gaoking in this precise clear bright yellow finish, making it truly unique. The cost of *not* securing these now, only to pay secondary market prices later for a complete set, is genuinely illogical.

How to tell your wife:

Honey, I secured three more pieces for the display; they’re actually miniature art studies of classic robot designs. Imagine how striking the metallic black Gaohunter will look alongside the other pieces, providing that elegant contrast. This is less about toys and more about appreciating complex engineering in simplified form.

How to tell your parents:

You know how much I appreciate thoughtful design, and these new Gaoranger pieces are a perfect example of industrial art. The way Bandai rendered Gaoking in a single color really highlights the sculptor’s mastery of volumetric detail. It shows a keen eye for form, which is something I’m developing too.

How to tell your kids:

Listen up, these are the super-secret, ultimate forms of Gaoking, Gaohunter, and Gaomuscle, cast in pure shadow energy. Only very special Power Rangers can unlock the metallic black coating on their armor. You can look at Soccer Gaomuscle all you want, but remember, the Alligator Sword is super sharp.

This Storage Collection line proves Bandai Candy understands the evolving tastes of the adult collector, prioritizing aesthetic purity and unique presentation over direct show accuracy. Adding the metallic black Gaoranger mecha, especially with the Soccer Gaoking options, offers a compelling artistic interpretation that earns a spot in any discerning display.

🟢 Product Specifications 🟢

✅ Product Series: SHOKUGAN MODELING PROJECT (SMP)

✅ Manufacturer: BANDAI CANDY

✅ IP: Hyakujuu Sentai Gaoranger

✅ Release Date: August 2026

✅ Material: ABS

✅ Dimensions (H x W): Approx. 150mm x 100mm (approx. 5.9 inches x 3.9 inches)

✅ SMP Storage Collection 02 (General Release):

– Price: 990 Japanese Yen (incl. tax) (approx. $6.39 USD)

– Contents: Gaoking, Gaohunter, Gaomuscle (each in light orange or clear bright yellow, 6 types total)

– Features: Increased part count (42% more than Storage Collection 01), recreate arm-swapping.

✅ SMP Storage Collection EX02 (Premium Bandai Exclusive):

– Price: 4,499 Japanese Yen (incl. tax) (approx. $29.02 USD)

– Contents: Gaoking, Gaohunter, Gaomuscle (metallic black finish, 3-pack)

– Exclusive Accessories: Gaoking Fin Blade, Gaohunter Alligator Sword, Gaorhino & Gaorarmadillo lower body parts for Soccer Gaoking & Soccer Gaomuscle.