Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team Review

Not Your Average Gundam Series.

 The Mobile Suit Gundam franchise consists of many shows, movies, and original video animations (OVA, for short). Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team is one of those uniquely underrated shows of the franchise. Serving as a side-story, we take a glimpse of  of the One Year War from both an Earth Federation and Zeon pilot's perspective. Also, this series is only 12 episodes, one of the shortest Gundams in the franchise. Anyway, it's time to experience The 08 MS Team's short adventures.


STORY- Taking place in U.C. 0079, during and after the One Year War, the Earth Federation and Principality of Zeon are in a war over resources in a guerrilla-tactics manner.The story follows The 08 MS Team, lead by main protagonist Shiro Amada, as they track down a powerful Zeon weapon in the jungles of Southeast Asia. However, things get tough for Shiro when he falls in love with Zeon pilot, Aina Shahalin. Will his love for a Zeon pilot impact his mission and endanger his compared?

While mostly serious, the story can be light-hearted. 

 That's all for the story, I won't spoil anything for those interested. The story in The 08 MS Team is a breath of fresh air compared to other Gundam shows. We get a soldier's point of view on the war and how it can impact the lives of many. That's something that kept me engaged in the story.

CHARACTERS- Like the story, the cast are also memorable. Compared to Amuro, I liked Shiro almost immedailty. He's an honest and brave leader with noble intentions. It's surprising that one can know more about the characters considering the short nature of the show. They're well-written and each have their own goals, which they think is right. Again, you'll end up sympathizing with some of the Zeon crew along the way.

PRESENTATION- Similar to most Gundam shows in the 90's, the presentation is spot-on. The character and mech designs are detailed and neat, as well as the backgrounds. Furthermore, the voice performances are great and fits the atmosphere of the show. The same goes for the soundtrack as well, which packs some nice tracks.

The presentation is good.

OVERALL- Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team is an enjoyable and unique. Despite its length and weak villain, if you're looking for a good adventure with interesting characters, The 08 MS Team is worth the look.

-The 08 MS Team contains some violence, profanity, and some nudity. Recommended for teens and up- 

WATCH