Reader’s Question:
I’ve recently started watching Gundam. I’ve finished watching the original Gundam and Zeta Gundam. I’m wondering what Gundam series I should watch next. I’m particularly interested in Zeta Gundam, The Witch from Mercury, Gundam 00, and Gundam SEED. If anyone has recommendations, I would love to hear them!
A Journey
Through the Gundam Universe: What to Watch Next
So, you’ve dived headfirst into the world of Gundam, huh? That’s awesome! I remember my first steps into the sprawling universe of giant robots, epic battles, and complex characters. It’s like entering a whole new dimension, full of intricate stories and philosophical dilemmas. You’ve conquered the original Mobile Suit Gundam and Zeta Gundam—two titans of the franchise—and now you’re on the hunt for what to tackle next. Let’s break this down together!
Where You’ve Been: A Quick Recap
First off, congrats on finishing the originals! The original Gundam series is foundational—like the bread and butter of mecha anime. It introduced us to Amuro Ray and Char Aznable, and let’s be honest, who doesn’t get goosebumps just thinking about their epic rivalry? And then you jumped into Zeta Gundam, which is darker, more intense, and adds layers upon layers to those already complex characters. If you thought the stakes were high in the original, Zeta just cranked it up to eleven. I remember feeling an emotional rollercoaster watching Zeta. The plot twists! The betrayals! It’s like a Shakespearean tragedy but with giant robots. By the time I finished, I was pretty much ready to throw on a pilot suit myself.
Your Next Steps
Now, onto the juicy stuff—what to watch next? You mentioned a few options: Gundam SEED, Gundam 00, and The Witch from Mercury. Each has its charm, but they all cater to different aspects of the Gundam experience.
The Classic Path: ZZ and Beyond
If you want to keep riding the Gundam wave from the classic era, I’d definitely suggest checking out Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ next. Sure, it gets mixed reviews, but it’s crucial if you want to follow the story of Amuro and Char to its conclusion in Char’s Counterattack. Think of it as the bridge that connects the emotional depth of Zeta to the explosive finale of Char’s Counterattack. I’ll be honest, ZZ does take a turn towards a lighter, more comedic tone initially, which can feel jarring after the intensity of Zeta, but hang with it. By the end, you’ll appreciate how it wraps up several character arcs. It’s like that friend who starts off goofy but ends up surprising you with a heartfelt moment. After ZZ, tackle Char’s Counterattack. This film is like the cherry on top, the culmination of the saga you’ve been following. The showdown between Char and Amuro is nothing short of legendary. You’ll feel that tension build up, and trust me, the payoff is worth every second.
Newer Generations: Gundam SEED and Gundam 00
Alright, now let’s pivot to the newer series. Gundam SEED is a polarizing entry in the franchise. Some fans love its modern take, while others critique its similarities to earlier series. Personally, I found the character designs sleek and the soundtrack pretty catchy. If you can get into that early 2000s vibe, it might just hit the spot for you. But I can understand if it feels a bit off after the classics—it’s a different flavor for sure. Then there’s Gundam 00, which I have to say, is one of my absolute favorites! It has a more global approach to the conflict and touches on themes of war and peace in a way that resonates deeply. The characters feel more relatable, and the animation quality is top-notch for its time. I remember binging it and being completely captivated by the “Celestial Being” organization and their mission to end war. Plus, the mecha designs are just downright cool!
Sneaking In The Witch from Mercury
Now, let’s chat about The Witch from Mercury. If you’re a fan of unique storytelling, you might find this series fascinating. It’s a bit of a departure from the classic themes of the franchise, venturing into new territory. It revolves around a female protagonist, which is refreshing, and brings a new angle to the Gundam lore. But I should mention, it’s a bit different in tone. Some fans feel it’s more akin to a side story than a direct continuation of the core Gundam narrative. That said, it’s worth a watch to see how the series evolves.
Wrapping It Up: A Gundam Journey
At the end of the day, what you choose to watch next depends on what you’re in the mood for. If you want that classic experience, go for ZZ and finish off with Char’s Counterattack. If you’re leaning towards something fresh, you can’t go wrong with Gundam 00—it’s a modern classic for a reason. And hey, don’t forget to keep those snack bowls full while you watch. There’s nothing quite like settling in for a marathon of mecha action, philosophical debates, and epic battles. Just remember that every series has its own flavor, and part of the fun is finding out which ones resonate with you the most. So, gear up, grab your favorite Gundam model, and enjoy the ride ahead. The world of Gundam is vast and filled with stories that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll. Happy watching!
