Mobile Suit Gundam Review

Humble Beginnings

 The Mobile Suit Gundam franchise has come a long way since its inception way back in 1979. At some point, it was even close to being cancelled due to the initial low ratings. Now, over 30 years later, the franchise consists of multiple series', toylines, games, and more, the original is even considered an anime classic by many fans. During 1981 and 1982, three movies: Mobile Suit Gundam I, Mobile Suit Gundam II: Soldiers of Sorrow, and Mobile Suit Gundam III: Encounters In Space were made to recap the events of the show. Now that the introductions are out of the way, it's time with a blast from the past with a review of the show that started it all, Mobile Suit Gundam. 

STORY- Universal Century 0079, mankind have colonized space and developed powerful weapons called mobile suits. A war between two factions, the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon is in action, this is known as The One Year War. The war is so severe that humanity's  existence is in question. The story begins with the Earth Federation's warship, White Base, arriving at Side 7 to pickup its latest weapons. Upon arrival, Zeon forces immediately attack Side 7, killing many civilians in the process. Amuro Ray, a 16 year-old civillain of Side 7, stumbles upon Earth Federation's latest weapon, a powerful mobile suit known as Gundam. From there, we follow Amuro, along with the crew of White Base, survive the war against Zeon. The story's themes are well-handled. The horrors of war, losses of loved ones, and ambitious ideals are greatly discussed and adds more substance to the story.

Right in the sensors.

CHARACTERS- The majority of the characters are likable. Amuro Ray, our main lead, may start as whiny and much of a jerk, but towards the end, he's a developed, mature person. His rival, and one of the coolest anti-heroes in anime history, Char Aznable, is an intelligent, yet cold person. Like Amuro, we know more about his true intentions and history as the story progresses. The crew of White Base, consisting of civilians from all ages, are likable and receive character development as well. Don't be surprised that you'll also empathize with many members of the Zeon forces as well.

The characters are likable and memorable.

PRESENTATION- Despite their age, the visuals for the most part hold up decently. However, at times the animations for the mechs can be a bit disjointed even for a late 70's show. While it doesn't severely hurt the visuals, it's still a noticeable. The audio is good. The voice-work is handed well and each character sounds just like how thye should. The soundtrack is good, with some nice tracks such as "Gallant Char" being my favorite.

The presentation is good for the most part.

OVERALL- I really had a lot of fun watching Mobile Suit Gundam. Its plot, characters, and themes of war and losses were well implemented. If you can get past the aged presentation, you'll find some enjoyment to be had. Newcomers who are interested in the Universal Century timeline should watch the original before heading on to its successors. 

-MSG contains some scenes of violence and profanity. Recommended age 13 and older-

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