Gundam Watch Order: The Ultimate Guide For Newbies

by Jhon Lennon 51 views

So, you're thinking of diving into the awesome world of Gundam, huh? That's fantastic! But with so many series, timelines, and alternate universes, figuring out where to even begin can feel like trying to navigate a minefield in the dark. Don't worry, guys, I've got you covered. This guide will break down the best ways to approach the Gundam franchise, whether you want to go chronological, follow a specific timeline, or just jump into some of the most popular series. Let's get started!

Understanding the Gundam Universe

Before we dive into the watch order, let's quickly touch on what makes Gundam so unique. The franchise, which started way back in 1979 with Mobile Suit Gundam, isn't just about giant robots beating each other up (though there's plenty of that!). At its heart, Gundam explores complex themes like war, politics, human evolution, and the consequences of technological advancement. It's a surprisingly deep and thought-provoking series, which is why it's resonated with fans for so long.

Multiple Timelines and Universes

The first thing you need to understand is that Gundam isn't just one continuous story. There are multiple timelines and alternate universes, each with its own set of characters, conflicts, and mobile suits (that's Gundam-speak for giant robots, by the way). The main timeline is called the Universal Century (UC), and it's the foundation upon which the entire franchise was built. However, there are also standalone universes like Mobile Suit Gundam Wing, Mobile Suit Gundam SEED, Mobile Suit Gundam 00, and Mobile Suit Gundam Iron-Blooded Orphans, each offering a fresh take on the Gundam concept.

Key Concepts to Know

  • Mobile Suits: These are the giant, humanoid robots that are central to the Gundam franchise. They're piloted by humans and used for combat, construction, and various other purposes.
  • Newtypes: In the Universal Century timeline, Newtypes are humans with enhanced spatial awareness and psychic abilities, often making them exceptional pilots. They play a significant role in the UC storyline.
  • Minovsky Physics: This is a fictional scientific concept that explains how mobile suits can be so effective in combat. It involves the use of Minovsky particles, which can disrupt radar and communications, creating a unique battlefield environment.

Knowing these basics will help you better understand the context and appreciate the nuances of the different Gundam series.

Option 1: The Universal Century (UC) Chronological Order

For many Gundam purists, the Universal Century is the only way to experience Gundam. It's the original timeline, the most fleshed out, and the one with the deepest lore. Starting with the UC allows you to see how the Gundam universe evolved and understand the historical context behind later series. Watching in chronological order is a great way to appreciate the grand scope of the Universal Century timeline, seeing how events and characters evolve over decades of in-universe time. This approach allows you to fully grasp the political and social complexities that drive the conflicts within the UC. Plus, you'll witness the technological advancements in mobile suit development firsthand, from the humble beginnings of the RX-78-2 Gundam to the advanced machines of later eras. If you're a history buff or just love deep, interconnected storylines, this is the path for you.

Here's a recommended UC chronological watch order:

  1. Mobile Suit Gundam 0079 (1979): The one that started it all. While the animation might look dated, it's essential for understanding the UC timeline. You can watch the original series or the movie trilogy, which is a condensed version of the story.
  2. Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (2015-2018): This is a prequel that delves into the backstory of Char Aznable and Sayla Mass, two iconic characters from the original series. It's beautifully animated and provides valuable context for the events of Mobile Suit Gundam 0079.
  3. Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (1989): A short but incredibly moving OVA (Original Video Animation) that focuses on the human cost of war. It's a standalone story set during the One Year War.
  4. Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (1992): This OVA bridges the gap between Mobile Suit Gundam 0079 and Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam. It introduces new characters and mobile suits and expands on the political landscape of the UC.
  5. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985): A direct sequel to Mobile Suit Gundam 0079, Zeta Gundam is darker and more complex, exploring themes of political corruption and the psychological toll of war. Many fans consider this to be one of the best Gundam series ever made.
  6. Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (1986): A more lighthearted series compared to Zeta Gundam, ZZ Gundam initially faced criticism but has since been re-evaluated. It introduces new characters and continues the story of the AEUG and the Titans.
  7. Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack (1988): A movie that serves as the culmination of the rivalry between Amuro Ray and Char Aznable. It's a must-watch for any UC fan.
  8. Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (2010-2014): A visually stunning OVA set a few years after Char's Counterattack. It explores the mysteries of the Unicorn Gundam and its connection to the Universal Century's history.
  9. Mobile Suit Gundam Narrative (2018): A sequel to Gundam Unicorn that delves further into the themes of Newtypes and the legacy of the Universal Century.
  10. Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway (2021-Present): A movie trilogy adapting the Hathaway's Flash novels. The first movie is already out, with more to come. It explores the complexities of terrorism and political extremism in the UC.

This is the core UC timeline, but there are also several side stories and spin-offs that you can explore, such as Mobile Suit Gundam F91 and Mobile Suit Victory Gundam. However, starting with the above list will give you a solid foundation in the Universal Century.

Option 2: Release Order

Another way to approach Gundam is to watch the series in the order they were released. This allows you to experience the franchise as it unfolded for fans over the decades. Watching in release order offers a unique perspective on how the Gundam franchise evolved over time. You'll witness the changes in animation styles, storytelling techniques, and thematic focus as you move from the late 70s to the present day. This approach can be particularly interesting for those who appreciate the historical context of the series and want to see how Gundam influenced the mecha genre and anime as a whole. It's a bit like taking a journey through the history of anime, with Gundam as your guide. Plus, experiencing the series as fans did back in the day can add an extra layer of appreciation for the franchise's enduring popularity. However, keep in mind that the animation quality of older series may be jarring for some viewers, and the storytelling conventions may feel dated compared to modern anime.

Here's a general release order to follow:

  1. Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)
  2. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985)
  3. Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (1986)
  4. Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack (1988)
  5. Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (1989)
  6. Mobile Suit Gundam F91 (1991)
  7. Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (1992)
  8. Mobile Suit Victory Gundam (1993)
  9. Mobile Fighter G Gundam (1994)
  10. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995)
  11. After War Gundam X (1996)
  12. Turn A Gundam (1999)
  13. Mobile Suit Gundam SEED (2002)
  14. Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny (2004)
  15. Mobile Suit Gundam 00 (2007)
  16. Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (2010)
  17. Mobile Suit Gundam AGE (2011)
  18. Gundam Build Fighters (2013)
  19. Gundam Build Fighters Try (2014)
  20. Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (2015)
  21. Mobile Suit Gundam Iron-Blooded Orphans (2015)
  22. Gundam Build Divers (2018)
  23. Mobile Suit Gundam Narrative (2018)
  24. Gundam Build Divers Re:RISE (2019)
  25. Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway (2021)
  26. Mobile Suit Gundam: Witch from Mercury (2022)

Keep in mind that this order includes series from different timelines and universes, so the stories won't always connect directly. But it's a great way to see how the franchise has evolved over time.

Option 3: Standalone Series

If you're not ready to commit to the long haul of the Universal Century or want something a little more modern, you can jump into one of the standalone Gundam series. These series are set in their own universes and don't require any prior knowledge of Gundam to enjoy. Choosing a standalone series is a great way to dip your toes into the Gundam franchise without feeling overwhelmed by the extensive lore of the Universal Century. These series offer self-contained stories with fresh characters, unique mobile suit designs, and distinct thematic focuses. This approach allows you to explore different aspects of the Gundam universe without the pressure of needing to understand a larger, interconnected narrative. Plus, many of these standalone series feature more modern animation and storytelling techniques, making them more accessible to newer anime fans. It's a fantastic way to get a taste of what Gundam has to offer and see if the franchise is right for you before committing to a more extensive watch order.

Here are a few popular options:

  • Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: This series was a gateway for many Western fans into the Gundam franchise. It features a group of young pilots fighting against a corrupt organization. It's known for its stylish mobile suit designs and angsty characters.
  • Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: A remake of the original Mobile Suit Gundam but set in a different universe. It's a popular choice for its compelling characters, dramatic storyline, and updated animation.
  • Mobile Suit Gundam 00: Set in a near-future world, Gundam 00 explores themes of terrorism, war, and energy consumption. It features a group of Gundam pilots who aim to eradicate war through armed intervention.
  • Mobile Suit Gundam Iron-Blooded Orphans: A darker and more gritty series set in a post-disaster world. It follows a group of orphaned soldiers who fight for their survival and independence.
  • Mobile Suit Gundam: Witch from Mercury: The most recent entry in the Gundam franchise, this series features the first female protagonist in a mainline Gundam series. It is set in a school for mobile suit pilots and explores themes of identity, prejudice, and corporate power.

Which Order is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best way to watch Gundam is the way that you'll enjoy it the most. If you're a stickler for continuity and want to experience the full scope of the Universal Century, then the chronological order is the way to go. If you're curious about the history of the franchise and want to see how it evolved over time, then the release order is a good option. And if you just want to jump into a self-contained story with modern animation, then one of the standalone series is a great choice.

No matter which path you choose, get ready for an amazing journey into the world of Gundam! Just remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the ride. Happy watching, guys!