Reader’s Question:
I have a question about Gundam. I’ve recently come across the anime “Gundam: The Witch from Mercury,” and it looks really interesting. If I want to start watching Gundam now, what should I watch first to understand the series better? Do you have any recommendations? Thank you!
Jumping into the
Gundam Universe
Hey there! So, I totally get the excitement of diving into the Gundam series, especially with “Gundam: The Witch from Mercury” catching your eye. It can feel a bit intimidating at first, right? With so many series and timelines, it’s like stepping into a huge, sprawling universe. But let me share some thoughts based on my own experience.
A Little Backstory
I remember when I first stumbled upon Gundam. I was just a kid, flipping through channels, when I caught a glimpse of giant robots battling it out against a backdrop of space. I was hooked! I started with the original Mobile Suit Gundam, and boy, what a ride that was! The animation might feel dated now, but the story and characters are timeless. You really start to feel the weight of their struggles and the complexities of war. So, if you’re starting fresh, I’d definitely recommend watching the original Mobile Suit Gundam first. It sets the stage for everything that follows. It’s like the foundation of a house; without it, everything else feels a bit shaky. And then, moving on to Zeta Gundam is crucial. It builds on the original’s themes and characters, and you get to see the evolution of the narrative.
Why Not Just Dive Right In?
Now, I know some folks suggest jumping straight into “Gundam: The Witch from Mercury,” and while it does have its charm, you’ll likely find yourself lost in a sea of references and character backstories that you won’t fully appreciate without the context of the earlier series. Think of it like watching a sequel without having seen the first movie – you might laugh at the jokes, but you’ll miss the punchlines! I found that watching the movies instead of the lengthy TV series can save you some time. The original Mobile Suit Gundam has three compilation movies that condense the story quite nicely. It’s still a commitment, but way easier to digest in a weekend binge! Just make sure you have your snacks ready because once you start, it’s hard to stop.
Funny Moments and Surprising Discoveries
One of the funniest moments I recall was when I realized how much I was yelling at the screen during a pivotal battle scene. I was so invested that I found myself standing up, waving my arms around like I was the pilot! My spouse walked in, raised an eyebrow, and all I could do was laugh at my own enthusiasm. It’s those little quirks that make watching Gundam so enjoyable! And don’t even get me started on the surprising character arcs! Some characters you think are just side players end up being pivotal to the plot, which makes for some great “aha!” moments.
Final Thoughts
So, in summary, start with the original Mobile Suit Gundam, then Zeta Gundam. If you’re feeling brave, watch “Gundam: The Witch from Mercury” afterward, and be ready to do some Googling for those references! It’s all part of the journey. I’d love to hear about your own experiences with Gundam or if you have any other tips or series you think are essential. Let’s keep the conversation going in the comments! Happy watching!
