Prototype Gundam

The RX-78-1 Prototype Gundam is the third mobile suit produced under the EFFs V Project, and the earliest known incarnation of the RX-78 Gundam suits. The Prototype Gundam was unique among the three V Project suits in that it did not rely on heavy firepower, but on high maneuverability and close range combat instead, while still maintaining the extremely durable Luna-titanium alloy armor of its predecessors. It was also the first to feature several new technologies, including the energy cap-based beam rifle (which would later be passed down to the Guncannon, and on to many, many future Mobile Suits), and close range beam weaponry, such as the beam saber and beam javelin. After initial testing was finished, all of the Prototype Gundam suits were upgraded to the much more recognizable RX-78-2 Gundam.

Not counting MS only available through events or promotional codes, the Prototype Gundam is one of the most powerful Federation Melee suits, second only to the GM Guard Custom in terms of armor and damage output. It can only carry a prototype beam rifle as its main ranged weapon, and it has vulcans for anti-infantry purposes, but as it is a Melee suit, its most dangerous weapon is its beam javelin, whose destrictive power rivals the iron nails of the Zeon Forces Z'Gok at over twice the range. There is a weakness to the javelin though. As it is a polearm, it may only damage what is close to the "blade". There have been cases where standing in VERY CLOSE proximity to the Prototype Gundam effecively keeps the MS unaffected the javelins side swipes. This may either be a glitch, or an oversight. The Prototype Gundam may be easily differentiated from the Gundam and Gundam G-3 by its unique color scheme (may change, obviously), its lack of a shield, and uniquely shaped forearm and ankle armor and asymetrical side-skirts. The most obvious sign though, is that more often than not, many players will attack almost exclusively with the beam javelin, which is exclusive to the Prototype Gundam.