Bandai Revives 1983 Gundam Creator Anime in Experimental Video

Bandai Revives 1983 Gundam Creator Anime in Experimental Video

Key Takeaways

  • BNF collaborated with Kamikaze Douga to release new footage for Aura Battler Dunbine.
  • Side R is part of an experimental project, with potential for future franchise plans.
  • The series combines mecha, medieval settings, and themes of war like other Tomino works.

As a lifelong mecha enthusiast who’s been through more transforming robots and epic space battles than I can count, the news of Aura Battler Dunbine Side R is like a breath of fresh air! I was a kid when this series first aired, and it left such an indelible mark on my imagination. The blend of medieval settings, dragons, knights, and mecha is a unique twist that has me hooked all over again.


Beginning on Thursday, Bandai Namco Filmworks (BNF) began sharing a video titled “Aura Battler Dunbine Side R” as part of a joint experimental initiative with the studio Kamikaze Douga. This brief video can be found on Sunrise’s official YouTube channel, which is now a branch of Bandai Namco Filmworks.

In 1983, Aura Battler Dunbine – an anime series – was born, with Yoshiyuki Tomino and Hajime Yatate (a collective pen name for Sunrise studio contributors) as its creators. It ran for 49 episodes. Later in 1988, a three-episode original video animation (OVA) sequel was released. The series features fresh footage from the initial anime production, introducing new mecha and weaponry. Anison singer MindaRyn provides the theme song, “Remaining Story”.

In contrast to the entirety of Side R being fresh footage, a video named “Aura Battler Dunbine Side L” emerged in May, combining both old and new segments. Notably, Norio Wakamoto reprised his role as the narrator in this version. At present, this is merely an experimental endeavor; however, Bandai Namco Entertainment might be gauging audience interest for potential future expansions of the franchise.

Gundam, But in a Somewhat Medieval Setting

In a nutshell, the show shares characteristics with a blend of Isekai (anime genre where characters are transported to other worlds) and Mecha series. The protagonist, Sho Zama, unexpectedly finds himself in a realm called Byston Well following an unforeseen event. This strange dimension lies between sea and land, housing both dragons and knights. In this realm, Sho is caught amidst conflict, finding himself compelled to fight, operating an Aura Battler in the process.

Similar to several other works by Yoshiyuki Tomino, this series explores the perils of war while delving into themes such as romance, existence, and maturity. Thus, it might be characterized as a “medieval fantasy-esque in an alternate world.

Aura Battler Dunbine in the US

Aura Battle Dunbine was helmed by director Tomino, with Sukehiro Tomita penning the main script (notable works include MOSPEADA, Digimon Frontier, Sailor Moon 1-R-S seasons). The series was distributed on DVD in the US as early as 2003, featuring both subtitled and dubbed versions (by ADV Films), but its popularity among mecha enthusiasts led to a quick sellout, making it a scarce find. Fortunately, Sentai Filmworks now holds the license for streaming it online.

Aura Battler Dunbine
is available to stream on HIDIVE.

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2024-11-16 21:23