Table of Contents
The Gundam series is one of the most beloved and extensive franchises in anime history. With numerous series, movies, and spin-offs, it can be overwhelming for newcomers to know where to start. This guide will provide a chronological watch order that will help you navigate the complex timeline of the Gundam universe.
Understanding the Gundam Universe
The Gundam series began in 1979 with the original Mobile Suit Gundam, created by Yoshiyuki Tomino. It introduced the concept of giant robots piloted by humans, set against a backdrop of war and political intrigue. Over the years, the franchise has expanded into various timelines, each with its own characters and stories.
Before diving into the watch order, it’s essential to understand the different timelines within the Gundam universe:
- Universal Century (UC)
- Alternate Century (AC)
- Future Century (FC)
- After Colony (AC)
- Cosmic Era (CE)
- Post Disaster (PD)
Chronological Watch Order for Newcomers
Here is a recommended chronological watch order for newcomers to the Gundam series, focusing primarily on the Universal Century timeline, which is the most prominent and foundational series.
- Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) – The original series that started it all.
- Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985) – A direct sequel that continues the story of the original characters.
- Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (1986) – A continuation that offers a lighter tone but still ties into the overarching narrative.
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (1988) – A film that concludes the conflict between Amuro Ray and Char Aznable.
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (1989) – A side story that provides a more personal view of war.
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (1991) – A prequel to Zeta Gundam, focusing on the events after the original series.
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (1996) – A grounded story about a team of mobile suit pilots during the One Year War.
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Unicorn (2010) – Set in the same timeline, it explores the aftermath of the events in Char’s Counterattack.
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (2015) – A prequel series that delves into the backstory of Char Aznable and the events leading to the One Year War.
Exploring Other Timelines
While the Universal Century is the most recognized, there are other timelines worth exploring. Here’s a brief overview of notable series from alternate timelines:
- Mobile Fighter G Gundam (1994) – A unique take on the Gundam concept with a martial arts tournament theme.
- Gundam Wing (1995) – A popular entry point for many fans, focusing on five young pilots and their fight against oppression.
- Gundam SEED (2002) – A reimagining of classic themes with modern animation and storytelling.
- Gundam 00 (2007) – Set in the near future, it addresses contemporary issues such as terrorism and energy crises.
- Iron-Blooded Orphans (2015) – A darker narrative focusing on child soldiers and their struggle for freedom.
Tips for Newcomers
As you embark on your Gundam journey, consider the following tips to enhance your viewing experience:
- Take your time with each series; some may require deeper understanding of the lore.
- Engage with the community; forums and social media can enhance your experience.
- Watch the series in order of release for a better understanding of how the franchise evolved.
- Be open to different styles and themes, as Gundam explores a wide range of narratives.
Conclusion
The Gundam series offers a rich tapestry of stories that explore complex themes of war, politics, and human emotion. By following this chronological watch order, newcomers can appreciate the development of the franchise and its characters. Whether you choose to start with the original Mobile Suit Gundam or explore alternate timelines, you’re in for an exciting journey through one of anime’s most iconic universes.