A Beginner's Guide to Entering the World of Gundam

Getting into the Gundam franchise can be an exciting journey thanks to its rich history and vast universe. This guide will help you take your first steps into this captivating world. Let's dive in!

1. Choose a Series to Begin With

The Gundam franchise has produced a wide range of series that cater to different tastes. Here are a few series to help you get started: Mobile Suit Gundam (1979): The original series is a great starting point as it introduces the core themes and characters of the franchise. Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team: This OVA offers a more grounded and gritty perspective on the Universal Century timeline. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: A popular series in the West, featuring a different style and storyline that might appeal to new fans. Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans: A more recent and standalone series that has gained a lot of popularity.

2. Explore the Movies

Layering your experience with movies can provide deeper insights into the series: Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin: A movie series that provides a prequel to the original series and is well-received for its animation and storytelling. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam: A New Translation: A condensed version of the Zeta Gundam series that is accessible for newcomers.

3. Watch the OVAs and Side Stories

OVAs and side stories offer unique perspectives and visual styles that enrich your understanding of the franchise: Gundam Unicorn: A visually stunning OVA that expands on the Universal Century timeline. Gundam Thunderbolt: Known for its unique animation style and intense action.

4. Dive into the Manga and Novels

Manga and novels provide an alternative way to explore the stories of various series: Gundam: The Origin: A popular manga series that delves deeper into the original series’s universe. Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz: An expansive novel that enriches the plot of the original series.

5. Engage with the Community

Connecting with other Gundam enthusiasts can enhance your experience and appreciation of the franchise:

Join forums, Reddit communities, or social media groups dedicated to Gundam. Engaging with other fans can provide support, insights, and a wealth of information.

6. Explore Model Kits (Gunpla)

Building Gunpla Gundam plastic models is a significant aspect of the franchise and can be a fun and rewarding hobby:

Many fans enjoy crafting Gunpla models, which can be a fantastic way to deepen your connection with the series. Model kits are available in various difficulty levels, allowing you to start with simple projects and gradually progress to more complex builds.

7. Explore Spin-offs and Alternate Universes

Once you are familiar with the main series, you can explore alternate timelines and universes like Gundam Build Fighters or Gundam SEED:

With a solid foundation, you can delve into spin-offs and alternate timelines. These offer new characters, storylines, and visual styles that will enrich your experience.

Conclusion

Starting with one or two series that resonate with you is key. As you watch more, you can explore the different timelines and spin-offs, deepening your appreciation for the Gundam universe. Enjoy your journey into Gundam!

Remember, the fun in entering the Gundam universe doesn’t just come from watching and reading, but also from engaging with the community, building models, and exploring alternate stories. So, grab a cup of coffee, and let’s embark on this exciting journey together!