The same mobile suit, two different projects
Choose the May 2021 ENTRY GRADE RX-78-2 or the August 2024 RG Ver.2.0 by what you want to assemble. Both names contain RX-78-2 and 1/144, so a search thumbnail can hide the real difference. Bandai identifies the standard EG separately from its Light Package version. Keep that qualification on the shortlist rather than assuming every inexpensive RX-78-2 box supplies the same equipment.
What the EG deliberately removes
For the standard EG, the manufacturer describes Touch Gate parts that can be removed by hand, runners grouped by body section, and colour separation that does not require painting or stickers for the stated completion. Its listed equipment is a rifle and shield. That is a useful route if the desired activity is assembling the recognisable mobile suit, rather than adding an optional finishing process before you can begin.
What RG 2.0 adds to the subject
The exact RG page describes a semi-monocoque-inspired inner frame, a Core Fighter that transforms into the Core Block, and opening chest armour. These are construction and mechanism interests, not merely extra lines on an exterior. If the small aircraft and its relationship to the torso are what attracts you, the RG documentation answers a question the simpler EG equipment list does not address.
Do not turn more mechanisms into a deadline
Neither product description establishes how many evenings you personally need. Read the exact instruction entry before committing: Bandai lists separate manuals for EG and RG, and the RG entry also offers a technical guide. Put optional painting, decals and posing research in a separate column from the assembly you actually intend. A more elaborate kit is a poor substitute for wanting that particular process.
Make the choice from one desired action
If the next satisfying action is joining a small set of colour-separated body parts, start the EG shortlist. If it is understanding the frame and changing the Core Fighter configuration, investigate RG 2.0. Before selecting an offer, match the full grade, version wording and pictured contents to the manufacturer record. The RG list also names a Hyper Bazooka and Core Fighter landing-gear parts; the standard EG list names its rifle and shield. If one weapon is essential to the scene you want, write it beside the exact version before comparing offers. The first choice is a project you want to do; the shared Gundam name only identifies its subject.
Sources & further reading
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