Reader’s Question:
Who do you think is the Gundam protagonist that truly cherishes and takes care of their mobile suit over a long period of time? Please answer with a focus on the Universal Century timeline, as I hope we can reach a consensus among fans.

The Gundam Protagonists and Their Mobile
Suits: A Love Story in the Universal Century

As I sit here reminiscing about my favorite moments in the Gundam universe, I can’t help but dive into the fascinating topic of which protagonist truly cherishes and takes care of their mobile suit over time, especially within the Universal Century timeline. You see, the relationship between a pilot and their machine is often as intricate as any romantic plot, and like any good love story, it involves devotion, sacrifice, and the occasional heartbreak.

Judau Ashta: The Pragmatic Caretaker

First up on the list is Judau Ashta from Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ. Now, Judau is an interesting case. Sure, he definitely has a fondness for his mobile suit. He even goes to great lengths to keep the Zeta Plus in good shape. But let’s not kid ourselves—there’s a pragmatic side of him that has fans debating his true commitment. After all, there’s that cheeky possibility of selling his suit off if it ever came down to it. It’s a bit of a double-edged sword, really. On one hand, he shows signs of caring about the mechanics and performance of his suit, but on the other, he isn’t overly sentimental about it. It kind of reminds me of how I treat my own belongings; sure, I love my things, but if a shiny new gadget comes along, I might be willing to part with something I once adored.

Amuro Ray: The Utilitarian

Then we have Amuro Ray, the iconic pilot from the original series. Ah, Amuro. His relationship with the RX-78-2 is a classic tale of survival. Amuro has a knack for pushing his mobile suit to its limits, almost like he’s using it as a disposable tool rather than a cherished companion. He assesses damage and just keeps on going. It’s a pragmatic approach, but it does feel like he’s more of a tactical user than an emotional one. You can’t help but admire his skills, but there’s this lingering question: does he truly love the Gundam, or is it just a means to an end? Watching him treat his suit like a tool in a workshop, using it up until it can’t take any more, feels like a metaphor for those moments in life where we sacrifice emotional connections for the sake of duty.

Kamille Bidan and the Others: The Detached Perfectionists

And what about Kamille Bidan from Zeta Gundam? He’s got that artistic flair, but I can’t shake the feeling that he lacks a personal touch when it comes to his mobile suit, the Zeta Gundam. It’s like he appreciates it at a distance, almost as if he admires its beauty but doesn’t quite connect with it emotionally. Same goes for characters like Kou Uraki, Camille, and even the likes of Uciel and Book. They all focus on the mechanics, but how much do they really invest in the emotional aspect of their machines? I’m reminded of how some of us treat things like cars or tech. We love them while they’re shiny and new, but they eventually just become another item on our to-do list—maintenance. I wonder if a mobile suit can ever achieve that legendary status of a family car that gets passed down generations with stories to tell.

Banaji Link: The True Partner

Now, let’s talk about Banaji Link from Gundam Unicorn. This guy has an intense connection with his mobile suit, the Unicorn Gundam. The way he talks to it—like it’s a partner—gives us a glimpse into a truly cherished relationship. It’s almost spiritual, the way he treats it. You can feel the weight of their bond; it’s not merely about functionality but love and respect. When I watch Banaji and his interactions with the Unicorn, it reminds me of how some people treat their pets or lifelong friends—there’s this deep connection that transcends the ordinary. It’s fascinating to think that in a universe filled with war, piloting a mobile suit can feel as intimate as caring for a loved one.

Gray: The Long-term Commitment

Some might argue that Gray from Gundam F91 deserves acknowledgment here, having used his Gundam over an extensive period. It’s hard to ignore the amount of time he spent with it, almost as if the suit became part of his identity. But then again, there’s the fact that all mobile suits essentially belong to the military, which raises questions about personal attachment. Does the military ownership dilute the sentimental value? You know, it’s a bit like renting an apartment versus owning a home. When you own something, you infuse it with personality, but when it’s just a lease, there’s always that thought of “when am I moving out?” That shift in mindset can dramatically alter how we interact with our possessions.

Darry and the Craft of Love

Lastly, there’s Darry from Gundam Build Divers. While not part of the official timeline, his love for Gundam is palpable. He goes so far as to create his own mobile units inspired by the iconic designs. It’s this kind of passion that makes me think of how some fans might build model kits or cosplay; it’s all about capturing that essence of love and admiration. But then there’s that tiny doubt. If presented with the real deal, would he jump ship? It’s a thought that lingers in the back of my mind—do we love the idea more than the reality?

Final Thoughts: A Diverse Love

So, after diving deep into this rabbit hole of Gundam relationships, I find myself asking: is there a definitive answer to who cherishes their mobile suit the most? Maybe the real answer is that there isn’t one. Each pilot embodies a different shade of love and attachment, and perhaps that’s what makes the Gundam universe so rich and diverse. In the end, isn’t it fascinating how these giant robots symbolize our own relationships? Just like us, they endure battles, face wear and tear, and sometimes even get replaced. But the connection we form with them—be it from a place of love, necessity, or admiration—is what truly makes them memorable. So, whether it’s Judau’s pragmatism, Amuro’s utilitarianism, or Banaji’s heartfelt bond, every pilot has a story to tell about their mobile suit. And maybe, just maybe, that’s the real charm of Gundam—reminding us of our own journeys and the things we hold dear along the way.