The Gundam franchise has captivated audiences for decades with its intricate storytelling, complex characters, and stunning mecha battles. In this exploration of the top 5 best gundam anime series, we will delve into the most iconic entries that have defined the genre and left a lasting impact on fans. From the original Mobile Suit Gundam, which revolutionized mecha anime, to more recent hits that challenge traditional narratives, each series offers a unique perspective on war, friendship, and the human experience.
Join us as we rank these beloved titles and determine which one stands out as the best in the Gundam universe.
1. Mobile Suit Gundam
Mobile Suit Gundam, commonly known as Gundam ’79, is the groundbreaking series that launched the iconic franchise. Set in the space colony of Side 7, the story follows young mechanic Amuro Ray, who is unexpectedly thrust into an interstellar conflict when his home is attacked. In a desperate bid to defend against the invading forces of the Principality of Zeon, Amuro pilots the RX-78 Gundam.
The original series predominantly follows a “monster of the week” format, with Amuro facing off against various Zeon mobile suits and his long-time rival, Char Aznable. However, beneath this episodic structure lies a poignant narrative that explores the devastating effects of war and its impact on youth—themes that would become hallmarks of future Gundam series.
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2. Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War In The Pocket
Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket is a six-episode OVA series set during the conclusion of the One Year War. The narrative follows Alfred Izuruha, a ten-year-old boy captivated by warfare and mobile suits. However, when the conflict reaches Side 6, where Alfred resides, he begins to understand the harsh realities of war.
Though shorter than typical Gundam series, War in the Pocket effectively delivers a poignant story that aligns with the franchise’s themes, featuring impressive mobile suit battles that complement its anti-war message. Set after the original series, it serves as an excellent entry point into the Universal Century timeline due to its concise format and essential Gundam themes.
3. Mobile Suit Gundam 00
Unlike the original series, which is set in the Universal Century timeline, Gundam 00 takes place in the Anno Domini timeline of the Gundam universe. This alternate version of Earth has completely depleted its fossil fuel resources, leading humanity to rely almost entirely on solar power. However, not everyone has equal access to this energy, resulting in conflicts among various factions both on Earth and in space.
The story revolves around a mysterious organization called Celestial Being, which employs Gundam Mobile Suits to maintain peace among these warring factions. Gundam 00 serves as an excellent entry point for newcomers to the Gundam franchise, as it does not require prior knowledge of earlier series. It features impressive mobile suit designs, well-developed characters, and engaging fight scenes throughout.
4. Turn A Gundam
Turn A Gundam is set in the Correct Century, thousands of years in the future, where humanity has forgotten the wars of the past involving Gundams and reverted to a steampunk-like technology. Meanwhile, the Moonrace, who have settled on Earth’s moon, have preserved this ancient technology and plan to restore Earth to its former state.
The story follows Loran Cehack, who pilots the titular Turn A Gundam as he seeks to unite the people of Earth with the Moonrace, despite their mutual hostility. Turn A Gundam features some of the most intriguing mobile suit designs in Gundam history and stands out as a unique entry within the franchise. Its narrative and aesthetic differ significantly from other series, offering a fresh perspective on the Gundam universe.
5. Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt
Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt is notable for being one of the few adaptations that translates its original manga into an eight-episode ONA series, followed by a four-episode second season. Set during the One Year War, the story focuses on two pilots from the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon, who engage in fierce battles in the Thunderbolt Sector—an area of space filled with debris from destroyed colonies.
Despite its shorter format, Thunderbolt features some of the best animation in the Gundam franchise, showcasing incredible fight scenes and well-developed characters. Fans who enjoy both seasons will be pleased to know that the manga continues well beyond the anime’s conclusion, offering further exploration of its compelling narrative.
Conclusion: Finally, the top 5 best gundam anime series showcases the rich diversity and depth of storytelling within the Gundam franchise. Each series offers unique perspectives on war, politics, and human relationships, from the classic Mobile Suit Gundam that laid the foundation for the genre to Gundam 00, which explores contemporary issues through a sci-fi lens.
Whether you prefer the intense battles of Thunderbolt or the character-driven narratives of Iron-Blooded Orphans, there is a Gundam series for every fan. Ultimately, the best choice depends on personal taste, making it an exciting journey to explore each series and discover which resonates most with you.
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