The Gundam Franchise: A Guide for Newcomers

The mecha anime genre has never been more expansive than it is today, thanks in large part to the iconic franchise that started it all: Gundam. With a rich history spanning over four decades and numerous spin-offs across various mediums, diving into the world of Gundam can be an overwhelming experience for those new to the series.

Understanding the Gundam Anime Franchise

At its core, Gundam is a series of science fiction stories set in various alternate universes, often with a focus on war, politics, and humanity’s relationship with advanced technology. The franchise began with Yoshiyuki Tomino’s Mobile Suit Gundam, first aired in 1979 as part of the Space Runtram series. This original Mobile Suit Gundam laid the groundwork for what would become one of the most popular anime franchises globally.

Over time, the Universal Century (UC) timeline has emerged as a central axis within the franchise, detailing humanity’s colonization of space and its battles against powerful factions. Other notable timelines include After Colony, Future Century, Cosmic Era, and Post Disaster, each offering unique takes on the Gundam universe that often focus on specific themes or character arcs deviating from the core UC storyline.

Choosing a Starting Point: TV Series vs. Movies

For those new to Gundam, choosing where to start can be the most significant hurdle. The franchise boasts numerous TV series and movies, each with its own merits. When deciding between starting with a TV series or a movie, consider your preferences regarding storytelling depth and complexity.

The Universal Century timeline is best introduced through the original Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) for those who prefer their Gundam experience straightforward. For those who enjoy more nuanced storytelling and character development, Mobile Fighter G Gundam’s Future Century arc offers an excellent starting point. The movies are ideal for understanding specific storylines or exploring themes in a condensed format.

Focusing on Key Series: Universal Century and Beyond

Several key series stand out within the various timelines. Within the Universal Century timeline, Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (1988) offers a poignant conclusion to the original series’ narrative arc. Zeta Gundam (1985), however, truly revolutionized Gundam storytelling by introducing complex characters and philosophical themes into the franchise.

The After Colony timeline is represented by Wing Gundam W (1995), which showcases the franchise’s ability to incorporate new characters and plotlines while maintaining its core essence. Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny (2004-2005) in the Cosmic Era timeline offers a thought-provoking exploration of war and humanity that has garnered significant acclaim worldwide.

The Iconic Mobile Suits

A defining aspect of the Gundam franchise lies in its iconic mobile suit designs, which have evolved significantly over the years. From the first mobile suit’s minimalist approach to later models with more elaborate and futuristic designs, each iteration reflects not just technological advancements but also changes in societal values.

The incorporation of customization options and the emotional attachment fans form towards specific mobile suits underscores the franchise’s ability to weave technical details into compelling narratives. The RX-78-2 Gundam, with its unique combination of speed and firepower, remains a testament to Yoshiyuki Tomino’s original vision for the series.

Key Characters: Complex Figures and Their Motivations

The characters within the Gundam universe are often multidimensional figures, driven by complex motivations that evolve over time. Amuro Ray, the protagonist of Mobile Suit Gundam, is both an embodiment of idealism in a chaotic world and a symbol of the isolation faced by those who shoulder responsibility.

Char Aznable, whose enigmatic nature encapsulates the complexities of war and personal identity, serves as a poignant commentary on the human cost of conflict. Kamille Bidan from Zeta Gundam struggles to maintain his humanity amidst the devastation he witnesses, highlighting the impact of war on civilians and the ethics of creating life forms that can be used as soldiers.

Themes and Social Commentary

One of the hallmarks of the Gundam series is its ability to explore themes relevant to contemporary society, including war’s effects on civilians, the struggle for identity in a rapidly changing world, and humanity’s relationship with technology. The franchise’s use of advanced mecha as symbols of human innovation and power serves as a commentary on the responsibilities that come with technological advancements.

The After Colony timeline grapples with issues of war crimes and the consequences of pursuing technological superiority at all costs. Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny explores the impact of war on civilians and the ethics of creating life forms that can be used as soldiers in combat zones.

Finding Additional Content: Manga, Anime Films, and More

While this guide has focused primarily on anime series, the Gundam franchise extends far beyond television programming. The manga adaptations offer unique storylines not explored in the TV series or movies, while video games often provide interactive experiences that complement the narrative arcs of specific Gundam entries.

The anime films are also an essential part of the franchise’s history and thematic exploration, delving into various timelines with different focus points. Mobile Suit Gundam: 0080 - War in the Pocket (1989) is a beautifully animated film set in the Universal Century timeline, while Turn A Gundam (1999-2000) serves as a poignant commentary on war and peace.

In diving into the world of Gundam, one soon realizes that the franchise is as much about humanity’s struggle to find its place in a rapidly changing universe as it is about mecha combat. Whether you’re drawn to the intricate mobile suit designs or the complex characters, Gundam offers something for every type of viewer, making it an enduring and essential part of anime culture today.