Created in 1979 by Yoshiyuki Tomino and directed by Studio Sunrise, Gundam is a highly successful media franchise that has become one of the best-selling ever.
Beyond its numerous TV series, films, manga, and video games, Gundam has significantly impacted the action figure industry with its line of Gunpla (Gundam plastic model kits).
Gundam is credited with shaping the modern portrayal of giant mechas or robots and has inspired various other series within the realm of anime in Japan and globally.
So, Which Gundam series is the best?
With numerous beloved anime series in its canon, here are just a few of the best Gundam anime:
Best Gundam Anime of All Time
1. Mobile Suit Gundam
- Release: 1979-1980
- Episodes: 43
This is where it all began for Gundams. Mobile Suit Gundam marked a new chapter in mecha anime.
The story mainly follows the rivalry between Amuro, a pilot from the Earth Federation, and Char, a pilot from the Principality of Zeon. These two were top pilots on their respective sides, and their relationship became iconic, inspiring many future Gundam series.
The original series ran for 43 episodes, and three movies summarize the story with better sound quality for fans to appreciate.
This laid the foundation for the Gundam series in the Universal Century timeline.
2. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam
- Release: 1985-1986
- Episodes: 50
Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam is a rare example of a sequel that surpasses the original. It builds on the strengths of the first series and takes them to new heights.
Set seven years after the One Year War, Zeta Gundam introduces Kamille Bidan as the new protagonist, along with familiar characters from the previous series.
The show dives into complex themes like morality and the impact of war, exploring shades of gray rather than simple notions of good and evil.
It’s widely regarded as one of the best Gundam anime ever. However, watching the previous series before diving into this sequel is recommended for better understanding.
3. Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team
- Release: 1996-1999
- Episodes: 12
Set just a month after the beginning of the original Gundam series, The 08th MS Team follows the Earth Federation ground units during the One Year War. The main conflict revolves around the guerrilla warfare between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon.
Shiro, the new commander of the 08th Mobile Suit Team, receives orders to eliminate a Zeon base. However, he discovers that Zeon’s last hope is someone he knows. Now, they must both grapple with difficult choices.
As a unique entry in the Universal Century timeline, The 08th MS Team offers fans a more personal story with engaging characters.
4. After War Gundam X
- Release: 1996
- Episodes: 39
Perhaps one of the most underrated Gundam series, After War Gundam X introduces many intriguing new concepts to the Gundam universe.
Set in a post-apocalyptic Earth following the One Year War, the series explores a world where mobile suits are now in the hands of civilians. A few unlikely individuals must work together to prevent the planet from descending into chaos once more after a devastating war.
5. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing
- Release: 1995-1996
- Episodes: 49
Gundam Wing is often the first introduction to the Gundam series for many people outside of Japan.
It gained more popularity internationally than it did in Japan, becoming a gateway into the Gundam universe for many.
The story follows colonial rebels who initiate “Operation Meteor,” sending five powerful mobile suits to Earth seeking revenge.
One of these Gundams, piloted by Heero Yuy, crashes into the ocean and is discovered by Relena Peacecraft, the daughter of a politician advocating for peace. This encounter sets off a chain of events that will impact their lives and the fate of Earth and the space colonies.
While the storytelling style may differ from other Gundam series, Gundam Wing remains one of the best and is beloved by many fans.
6. Mobile Suit Gundam Seed
- Release: 2002-2005
- Episodes: 50, 50 (Destiny)
Gundam Seed aimed to replicate the success of Gundam Wing by modernizing the classic Gundam formula.
While its sequel, Destiny, didn’t quite meet expectations, Gundam Seed remains a standout in terms of animation quality.
It’s a great entry point for new fans looking to explore the Gundam series on its own merits.
7. Mobile Suit Gundam 00
- Release: 2007-2008
- Episodes: 25 (Season 1), 25 (Season 2)
Gundam 00 revolves around Celestial Being, a paramilitary group with exclusive access to Gundam units. Their mission is to eliminate global warfare using this advanced technology.
Known for its high-quality animation, Gundam 00 was the first series in the franchise to be animated in high definition.
It received praise for its visuals and compelling storyline, making it a favorite among fans. Gundam 00 is often recommended as an excellent starting point for newcomers to the Gundam series.
8. Gundam Unicorns
- Release: 2010-2014
- Episodes: 7
Originally a novel by Harutoshi Fukui, Gundam Unicorn was adapted into an anime series. It is the final installment in the Universal Century timeline, which began with the original 1979 series.
The story unfolds 16 years after the devastating One-Year War, during a time when humanity exerts significant influence in space. However, a rebel faction strikes a blow by destroying a residential space station.
Enter Banagher Links, an ordinary boy whose life becomes entwined with conflict upon discovering his connection to a mysterious artifact known as Laplace’s Box.
Gundam Unicorn boasts top-notch production quality, making it a visual spectacle and earning its place as one of the best anime entries in the Gundam franchise.
9. Mobile Suit Gundam Iron-Blooded Orphan
- Release: 2015-2017
- Episodes: 25 (Season 1), 25 (Season 2)
Iron-Blooded Orphans stands out as one of the darker and most compelling entries in the Gundam series, showcasing themes such as slavery, child soldiers, and neo-colonialism.
Set three hundred years after the Calamity War, Mars has been colonized by humans. However, many Martian nations suffer from poverty and rely heavily on Earth’s authority.
The story kicks off when Mars noblewoman Kudelia Bernstein hires a security company to escort her to Earth, aiming to negotiate her nation Chryse’s independence. However, they come under attack by Earth’s military.
In the face of adversity, hope emerges with the arrival of protagonist Mikazuki Augus, an orphan who pilots a repaired ancient Gundam into battle. The series’ brisk pacing, intense action, and well-developed characters make it a standout Gundam experience worth exploring.
10. Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway
- Release: 2021-
- Episodes: 3 Movies
The latest installment in the Gundam series belongs to the Universal Century universe.
Set twelve years after the conclusion of the second Neo Zeon War in Char’s Rebellion, the world remains in turmoil with ongoing military conflicts. The Earth Federation government has become increasingly corrupt, exacerbating pollution and enforcing an inhumane “Man-hunting” policy.
In response to this corruption, the anti-Federation organization Mafty emerges, committing acts of terrorism against high-ranking Federation officials. Led by a figure known as “Mafty,” the group garners support from a society disillusioned with the Federation government.
Hathaway Noa, son of Earth Federation Army officer Bright Noa, assumes the leadership of Mafty. Influenced by the ideals of Amuro Ray and Char Aznable, Hathaway embraces armed resistance as a means to enact change.
However, his path takes a dramatic turn when he encounters Federation Army officer Kenneth Sleg and the enigmatic Gigi Andalucia.
