Are you a fan of anime and science fiction? Have you ever been fascinated by the epic space battles and complex characters in Mobile Suit Gundam? If the answer is yes, then you are not alone! The series has captured the hearts of viewers worldwide. But how do you even begin to watch this extensive and timeless anime series? In this guide, we will go through the best ways to watch the Mobile Suit Gundam series in chronological order. Whether you are a beginner or an old veteran among Gundam fans, there is something here for everyone!
Why Watch Mobile Suit Gundam in Chronological Order?
Watching Mobile Suit Gundam in chronological order can provide a deeper understanding of the story, characters, and various themes explored by the series. It also helps to tie together the different timelines and provides a more cohesive experience of the narrative. Let's explore the best ways to do this!
1. The Original Gundam Series
The first series, Mobile Suit Gundam, released in 1979, set the standard for mecha anime. It is set in the Universal Century timeline and introduces us to a conflict between the Earth Federation and Zeon. It is a perfect starting point for those who want to watch the Gundam series in chronological order. Here are some key episodes to start with:
- Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) - 43 episodes
- Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985) - 50 episodes
- Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (1986) - 47 episodes
2. Understanding the Timeline
It's important to know the timeline of Mobile Suit Gundam to follow the story. The series contains several different timelines, but the most popular is Universal Century, which includes most of the early series and films. Here is a brief overview of some of the most important timelines:
- Universal Century (UC)
- Alternate Universe (AU) - various series such as Gundam Wing, Gundam X, and Seed
- Future Century (FC) - Gundam G
- After Colony (AC) - Gundam Wing
3. Watch Movies and OVAs
To get a more cohesive story, it can be beneficial to also watch movies and OVAs. These often provide a more condensed version of the main series or delve deeper into certain narrative moments. Here are some important titles in the UC timeline:
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Movie Trilogy - A compilation of the original Gundam series
- Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam: A New Translation - A film trilogy summarizing Zeta Gundam
- Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn - Follows a new story in the UC timeline
4. Fan Popularity
Mobile Suit Gundam has a large fan base, and different groups often discuss their favorite series and characters. This is a good place for a newcomer to get information and recommendations. Here are some ways to connect with other fans:
- Social Media - Engage in Gundam groups on Facebook, Twitter, or Reddit.
- Fan Forums - Participate in discussions on dedicated Gundam forums.
- Conferences and Events - Attend conventions or anime events where Gundam is in focus.
5. Don't Just Watch – Get Involved!
Watching Gundam isn't just a passive experience. Many fans engage in cosplay, paint models, or write fanfiction based on their favorite characters. This provides a deeper experience of the Gundam world and promotes creativity. Consider trying it yourself!
6. News and Playthroughs
Stay informed about the latest news on Mobile Suit Gundam. New information and new series are constantly being released, and staying updated can make your Gundam journey even more exciting. Some sources include:
- Anime News Websites - Follow websites like Anime News Network for updates.
- YouTube Channels - There are many channels that analyze and discuss Gundam-related content.
- Community Events - Participate in online events where news is discussed.
7. Building a Gundam Collection
Another fantastic aspect of Gundam is the merchandise. Many fans love to collect models (Gunpla), figurines, and other merchandise. Creating your own collection can be both fun and rewarding. Here are some tips to get started:
- Determine your style: Do you want a large collection of models or do you prefer smaller figurines?
- Research: Learn about the different types of Gunpla and their difficulty levels.
- Find the community: Join local hobby groups for tips and help.
8. Explore Alternative Timelines
Although Universal Century is the most famous timeline, there are many alternative series to explore. These help broaden your understanding of the Gundam universe. Some recommendations:
- Mobile Suit Gundam Wing - An iconic series with complex politics and multiple main characters.
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED - A modern classic that has many similarities with the original series.
- Mobile Suit Gundam 00 - Explores themes of terrorism and the future of humanity.
Start Your Gundam Journey Today!
Now you are equipped with all the information you need to fully dive into the Mobile Suit Gundam universe. Whether you choose to watch the series in chronological order, engage with the fan community, or collect merchandise, there are endless opportunities to enjoy this fantastic world. So put on your Gundam suit and prepare for space combat – your Gundam journey has just begun!