The one that got me I to Gundam was Wing Zero from Endless Waltz, so I have a huge soft spot for that one. Other ones I really love are Unicorn, Barbatos, and GP-01.
Outside Of Gundam, I like Laevatein from Full Metal Panic, the designs of the Flight Units from Nier Automata, and GaoGaiGar.
Really looking forward to Armored Core 6!
A fine-line sharpie is a great beginner's tool for panel lining! It's a very basic trick to really make a kit pop and a great starting point for going beyond a straight build. They have dedicated paints and markers for this but a fine-line sharpie works. Go over the details engraved into the parts with it, and wipe away excess with some rubbing alcohol on a towel.
Good luck!
Video I recommend : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WOmZbU1i90E
Example of panel lining comparison :
Heart&Slash! A simple hack 'n slash roguelike with a really good aesthetic and soundtrack
Jamiroquai - Love Foolosophy https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oMk1wBPiUIo
Sakanaction - New Treasure Island https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LIlZCmETvsY
Gorillaz - Silent Running https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0Pf48RqSsg
Monster by Naoki Urasawa is one I always recommend. My favorite franchise is Mobile Suit Gundam, and The Origin by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko is a good way to get into the franchise, but I understand mecha isn't for everyone.
Final Fantasy XIV. I'm so excited to hear what Masayoshi Soken will cook up next. Other ones to mention are Guilty Gear Strive, MegaMan X and Zero series, and The World Ends With You.
I had some issues finding Aerial at local hobby stores and online for a while, but then I found 3 just casually sitting on a shelf at Target! Good luck with your search. I'm still trying to track down an Aerial Rebuild for a reasonable price.
The Steam Deck helps feed my FFXIV addiction.