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The Gundam franchise has spent nearly 50 years evolving and reinventing itself through numerous side stories, new universes, and reimaginings of the original narrative that began in the “Universal Century” era, which debuted in the 1979 series Mobile Suit Gundam. With multiple entry points, including newer and potentially less intimidating starting points than the original 43-episode TV series, fans can engage with the franchise in various ways. However, the original Gundam remains a compelling and poignant watch, even years later, as evident from Gundam GQuuuuuuX, which recently spent 12 weeks drawing upon and reinterpreting the original series.

Both the compilation trilogy and the TV anime of the original Gundam offer a thought-provoking exploration of the impact of war on a generation of young people who feel disenfranchised by the powers and generations that preceded them. Despite some perceived “dated” animation, the mecha action remains engaging, particularly in how it highlights the human cost on those operating the machines. As a show that helped define its genre, the original Gundam endures as a classic due to the potency of its ideas, prompting numerous attempts to build upon or reimagine its story over the decades.

Gundam Gquuuuuux Episode 11 Char
© Sunrise/Prime Video

Gundam GQuuuuuuX represents the pinnacle of the franchise’s decades-long reflection on the legacy of Mobile Suit Gundam, with the original show looming large over it. Figures like Char are emblematic of their reputations, not just within the narrative but also in the context of years of fan fascination. By retelling the story of the original series, GQuuuuuuX acknowledges the vast reputation of Gundam and aims to encourage new audiences to explore the original show. The creators of GQuuuuuuX have stated that the show’s goal is not only to stand on its own but also to inspire viewers to discover the original series and understand what sparked their fascination with it.

Returning to the original Gundam series is a fascinating experience, as it reveals a show distinct from the legacy it would eventually attain. Initially, the series was not intended to spawn a franchise, with its runtime reduced and an uncertain future. Without the burden of its subsequent legacy, the original Gundam is remarkably refreshing, offering a unique perspective on its events and characters before they became iconic.

Gundam 0079 Amuro
© Sunrise/Crunchyroll

Watching the original series allows viewers to see characters like Char and Amuro before they became legendary figures. Amuro, in particular, spends much of the series struggling to survive, rather than being the heroic symbol he eventually becomes. Char, while already renowned for his piloting skills, is still a humble character who is not above being humbled or having the focus shift away from him. It’s remarkable to see these characters humanized, rather than being treated as untouchable figureheads. In the original Gundam, the world and characters exist independently of the franchise’s legacy, making for a captivating watch.

Whether it’s a first-time viewing or a revisit, it’s essential to remember what Mobile Suit Gundam was before its legacy. Even without the context of its subsequent impact, the original series endures as a remarkable show, offering a unique perspective on its events and characters.

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