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The Gundam franchise is a titan in the world of anime, known for its complex narratives, intricate characters, and iconic mobile suits. With numerous series, movies, and spin-offs, it can be overwhelming for newcomers to navigate the viewing order. This article will guide you on how to watch the Gundam series and movies in the correct order, ensuring that you fully appreciate the depth of this legendary franchise.
Understanding the Gundam Universe
The Gundam universe is primarily divided into two timelines: the Universal Century (UC) and the Alternate Universes. The UC timeline is the original setting where the first Gundam series debuted in 1979, while the Alternate Universes include various series that do not share continuity with the UC. Understanding these timelines is crucial for watching the series in the correct order.
Universal Century Timeline
The Universal Century is the backbone of the Gundam franchise, featuring many of the most beloved series and films. Here’s the recommended viewing order for the UC timeline:
- Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (1996)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (1989)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (1991)
- Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (1988)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (2010)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (2015)
Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)
The series that started it all, Mobile Suit Gundam introduces viewers to the One Year War and the conflict between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon. It sets the stage for the themes of war, loss, and the human condition that permeate the franchise.
Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985)
A direct sequel to the original series, Zeta Gundam explores the aftermath of the One Year War and introduces new characters and mobile suits, deepening the narrative complexity of the UC timeline.
Alternate Universe Series
The Alternate Universe series offers a fresh perspective on the Gundam lore, featuring unique settings and storylines. Here’s how to watch some of the most popular Alternate Universe series:
- Mobile Fighter G Gundam (1994)
- Gundam Wing (1995)
- Gundam SEED (2002)
- Gundam 00 (2007)
- Gundam Iron-Blooded Orphans (2015)
Mobile Fighter G Gundam (1994)
This series takes a more martial arts approach to the Gundam concept, featuring battles between mobile suits in a tournament-style format. G Gundam is known for its over-the-top action and unique character designs.
Gundam Wing (1995)
Gundam Wing is one of the most popular entries in the franchise, known for its political intrigue and complex characters. It follows five young pilots as they fight against an oppressive regime.
Movies and OVAs
In addition to the main series, there are several movies and original video animations (OVAs) that provide additional context and stories within the Gundam universe. Here are some notable ones:
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Movie Trilogy (1981-1982)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (1988)
- Gundam Unicorn: The Movie (2016)
- Gundam: The Origin (2015)
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Movie Trilogy (1981-1982)
This trilogy condenses the original series into three feature-length films, making it a great option for those who want a quicker overview of the story while still capturing the essence of the original.
Gundam Unicorn: The Movie (2016)
Gundam Unicorn is a continuation of the UC timeline, set years after Char’s Counterattack. It combines stunning animation with a rich narrative that ties back to the events of the original series.
Tips for New Viewers
For those new to the Gundam franchise, here are some tips to enhance your viewing experience:
- Start with the Universal Century series to grasp the foundational lore.
- Explore the Alternate Universes after familiarizing yourself with the UC timeline.
- Watch the movies for a condensed experience of the series.
- Engage with the fandom to discuss theories and character arcs.
Conclusion
The Gundam franchise is a rich tapestry of storytelling that spans decades. By following this guide, you can navigate the complex world of Gundam with ease, allowing you to appreciate the intricate narratives and character developments that have captivated fans for years. Whether you choose to start with the original series or dive into the Alternate Universes, the journey through the Gundam universe is sure to be an exciting one.