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The ‘Gundam’ franchise is a cornerstone of anime and mecha culture, captivating audiences since its inception in the late 1970s. With a rich history and numerous series, films, and spin-offs, it can be daunting for newcomers to navigate. This guide aims to provide a clear path through the canon of the ‘Gundam’ universe, helping beginners understand where to start and what to watch.
What is Gundam?
Gundam is a media franchise created by Yoshiyuki Tomino and produced by Sunrise. It primarily focuses on giant robots called mobile suits, particularly the titular Gundam. The franchise has expanded to include television series, movies, manga, novels, and video games.
The Core Themes of Gundam
One of the defining characteristics of the Gundam franchise is its exploration of complex themes such as:
- War and Peace: The series often delves into the consequences of war and the quest for peace.
- Humanity and Technology: Gundam questions the relationship between humans and the machines they create.
- Politics and Power: Many stories highlight political intrigue and the struggle for power.
Understanding the Gundam Timeline
The Gundam franchise is divided into various timelines, each with its own unique stories and characters. The most notable timelines include:
- Universal Century (UC): The original timeline and the most extensive, starting with Mobile Suit Gundam.
- Alternate Universes: These include timelines like the After Colony (AC), Correct Century (CC), and Future Century (FC), each offering distinct narratives.
- Gundam Build Series: A more light-hearted take on the franchise, focusing on model-building and battles.
Essential Gundam Series to Watch
For beginners, starting with the essential series can provide a solid foundation. Here’s a list of must-watch Gundam titles:
- Mobile Suit Gundam (1979): The series that started it all, introducing the main themes and characters.
- Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985): A direct sequel that deepens the narrative and explores darker themes.
- Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995): Popular in the West, it offers a different perspective on the Gundam lore.
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (1996): A more grounded take on the war aspect of the franchise.
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans (2015): A fresh story that appeals to both new and old fans.
Viewing Order for Beginners
To help beginners navigate the Gundam universe, here’s a suggested viewing order based on the Universal Century timeline:
- Mobile Suit Gundam
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (OVA)
- Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Double Zeta
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (OVA)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (OVA)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (Movie)
Exploring Alternate Timelines
Once familiar with the Universal Century, viewers can explore the alternate timelines. Here are some recommended series:
- Mobile Suit Gundam Wing
- Mobile Suit Gundam Seed
- Mobile Suit Gundam 00
- Gundam Build Fighters
Conclusion
The ‘Gundam’ franchise offers a rich tapestry of stories and themes that resonate with audiences worldwide. By following this canon viewing guide, beginners can embark on an exciting journey through the world of Gundam, discovering the depth and complexity that has captivated fans for decades.