Unlock the Gundam Universe: 3 Must-Watch Series for New Fans!

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Summary

  • Gundam 00 offers a relevant story with a diverse cast in the real-world future Anno Domini calendar.
  • Iron-Blooded Orphans features dark themes, brutal warfare, and unique mobile suit battles in a found-family narrative.
  • The Witch from Mercury brings a fresh take on Gundam with a female and LGBT protagonist in a political and economic warfare story.

An exciting new Gundam series is approaching, sparking curiosity among anime enthusiasts who wish to join this established franchise. With a 45-year history and numerous TV shows, OVAs, and movies, diving into Gundam might seem overwhelming at first. Fortunately, there are several standalone series that make it simple for newcomers to embark on their Gundam journey. If you feel apprehensive about joining the main storyline, Universal Century, there are numerous alternatives in the form of series set in alternate universes.

These are some great starting points for beginners diving into the world of Gundam. Each option offers a glimpse into the franchise’s essence while delivering standalone tales within a single series.

Gundam 00, A Timeless and Relevant Story

A Good Entryway into the Themes of the Franchise

2007 saw the release of the two-season anime series, Mobile Suit Gundam 00. Consisting of 50 episodes (two seasons of 25 each) and an epilogue film, this show is frequently recommended for newcomers. The narrative centers around Celestial Being, a team of independent agents who aim to eliminate Earth’s armed conflicts and wars by harnessing the power of four Gundams. Each of the primary Gundam pilots has suffered immense hardship or trauma due to war and violence, driving them to strive for a peaceful world where war no longer exists.

Most Gundam series, including the Universal Century’s primary narrative, unfold in a separate fictional timeline distinct from our reality. However, Gundam 00 departs from this pattern, occurring in the Anno Domini calendar, which essentially positions it as an advanced future version of our world. This unique setting enables the series to delve into themes and events that closely mirror real-life scenarios. The Middle East conflict serves as a significant plot element, with the protagonist being a former child soldier brainwashed by religious indoctrination who managed to survive a holy war.

Years after its release, Gundam 00 continues to impress with its outstanding original score, animation quality, and storylines that remain contemporary. Although some viewers might argue that season two isn’t as strong as the first, the overall appeal of Gundam 00 is worth exploring for newcomers to the franchise. This series stands alone within the Universal Century timeline, making it a great starting point, and it also ranks among the most cherished entries in the franchise due to its self-contained nature and enduring popularity.

Iron-Blooded Orphans, A Look Into Gruesome Warfare

Mechanic Medieval Knights Fight for Freedom

Gundam Iron-Blooded Orphans serves as another compelling introduction to this renowned series, comprising two seasons with 25 episodes each. This captivating tale follows a band of young oppressed slaves who fight for their emancipation and rise through the treacherous criminal underworld, using their Gundam and indomitable spirit. The narrative is intense, often exploring heavy themes like child exploitation. If you’re prepared for such content, you’ll be rewarded with a deeply moving and powerful story within the Gundam universe.

Iron-Blooded Orphans narrates a tale of an oppressive, unjust regime, a dark underworld, and the valiant efforts of a group of rebels determined to overthrow the oppressive system in place. Many of the show’s primary characters are teenagers who pilot potent Gundam machines. The bonds they form as a found family and their resilience in the face of adversity in a harsh, chaotic world make for an engaging viewing experience, as these youngsters grapple with survival in a world fraught with hardship. Unlike some other series, the ending of Iron-Blooded Orphans offers a bittersweet and melancholic conclusion, so if you’re seeking something more upbeat and thrilling, this one might not be suitable for your taste.

What really makes Iron-Blooded Orphans shine is its exceptional animation and action sequences. Unlike other titles in the franchise, the battles between mobile suits and Gundams in this series lack energy and beam weapons. Instead, the mecha engage in combat using massive firearms or swords, maces, and daggers. This unique setting sets Iron-Blooded Orphans apart from its peers, making it an appealing choice for viewers who can handle its darker themes.

The Witch From Mercury, The Latest and More Modern Entry

A Very Unique Take on Gundam

2022 saw the launch of Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury, a series divided into two seasons, each containing 24 episodes. This show garnered immense global popularity, attracting countless new fans to the franchise. Among all these suggestions, The Witch from Mercury stands out as an evident pick due to its widespread success. Notably unique about this installment is that it features a female and LGBT protagonist for the first time in a Gundam TV series. The narrative of The Witch from Mercury focuses on political and economic conflicts, offering a fresh perspective on classic Gundam themes.

In “Witch from Mercury,” we follow a school where aspiring business leaders and mobile suit pilots engage in duels to solve conflicts. The protagonist, along with the iconic Gundam, act as keys to unraveling the intricate mystery and unexpected plot turns that revolve around advanced technology. This captivating narrative explores themes of revenge, healing from past traumas, and the strong bonds between characters, particularly two main female protagonists. Parenthood, sisterhood, and the dynamic between these two girls are central to the storyline. “Witch from Mercury” is a must-see for both seasoned Gundam fans and newcomers to the franchise, offering a unique perspective that promises an exciting journey.

The character from Mercury, known as the Witch, boasts an exceptional collection of model kits, a significant element within the Gundam series. For enthusiasts captivated by the story and design of the mobile suits in the anime, the Witch from Mercury’s model kits make an affordable and valuable addition to the fandom. Moreover, compared to other series, The Witch from Mercury is more concise, making it easier for newcomers to dive into. The animation, music, characters, and mechanical designs are all high-quality aspects that fans frequently praise about the anime. Lastly, the satisfying and joyful conclusion of The Witch from Mercury could be a deciding factor for potential fans.

For newcomers to the Gundam franchise, these three series serve as our top recommendations. Even if you haven’t delved into Gundam before, they offer standalone stories with a shorter runtime compared to other series. These series make excellent additions to the Gundam universe and its model kit community. If your anticipation for Gundam GQuuuuuuX is building, these three series are ideal entry points for any enthusiast.

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2025-02-25 19:25