Mobile Suit Gundam has evolved into a huge sprawling franchise in the current day, making it hard for any newcomer to get into it.
The easiest and the simplest thing a wannabe Gundam fan would do is to watch the first ever Gundam anime (the iconic one which released in 1979) and then proceed to watch random series which they stumble upon (that was certainly not me).
However, as with any franchise that has spawned multiple closely related sequels, spin-offs and even alternate universes, comprehending the correct watch order for the Gundam anime franchise can be a bit hard.
This is where the Gundam watch order guides (like this one you’re reading now) can come in handy. Why? Because the Gundam franchise has multiple timelines of sorts.
So before we get to the actual watch order, we need to clear up the timelines first.
Gundam Watch Order – Timelines Explained:
If you were to categorize the Gundam anime franchise based on the plot continuity and timeline, we can come up with three broad sections:
The Universal Century Timeline – this is the main timeline of the anime, where most of the canonical content from the franchise exists. The timeline is usually split into early UC and late UC. The anime in this timeline are a must watch.
The side-stories: The Gundam anime that fall under this category are often part of the Universal Century timeline, but are not a direct sequel to the main story. Instead they are dedicated to exploring different perspectives and angles which occur parallelly to the main story. The anime in this category too are a must watch, as they add more depth to the main story.
The Alternate Universe: The anime in this category are stand-alone and can be watched or skipped depending on what you feel. Watching the anime from the main timeline is not a necessity if you are getting into these shows. A perfect Gundam entry point for those who don’t plan on geeking out about the main plot. You can skip them if you want.
So, keeping this in mind, let’s get started with our Gundam Watch Order. I’ll be focusing more on the Universal century watch order in this.
Gundam Universal Century Recommended Watch Order:
Okay, so like I said, the Universal Century Timeline is where the crux of the Gundam anime franchise exists, and is by far the most enjoyable one. In order to give you a complete Gundam experience, I’ll also be including the side stories in this Gundam watch order.
This a recommended watch order (which I’d like you to stick to), and I’ll also be listing a chronological watch order (later in the article), so be sure to check out both.
Main Universal Century timeline watch order:
By following this order, you’ll gain a deep understanding of the complex narrative arcs and character developments that define the UC timeline.
It more or less stays true to the production order, other than the OVAs and the side stories that I will be dealing in the next section.
Check out the main story timeline. For those looking to simply enjoy the main storyline of Gundam, the anime in this list will be more than enough.
Mobile Suit Gundam
Release Year: 1979
Year Set in UC: 0079
Mobile Suit Gundam is the genesis of the Gundam saga, introducing viewers to the war-torn world of the Universal Century.
Set during the One Year War, the series follows the crew of the White Base, a Federation warship, and their battles against the Principality of Zeon. Central to the story is Amuro Ray, a young pilot who becomes the pilot of the RX-78-2 Gundam, one of the most iconic mecha in anime history.
How it fits here: As the foundational entry in the Gundam franchise, Mobile Suit Gundam is essential viewing for anyone looking to understand the broader context of the UC timeline.
It lays the groundwork for the themes that permeate the entire series.
About the trilogy movies (IMPORTANT): Now, it is understandable if you can’t enjoy the original anime because of its outdated animation and visuals. If that is the case, there is a movie trilogy, which compiles and condenses the story of the original Gundam series.
I would still recommend the original anime over the movies because the pacing can be quite tight in them. However, even so, watching the third movie, titled Encounters in Space, is a must because it changes the ending of the original Gundam anime and makes it more fitting to the UC timeline continuity.
Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam
Release Year: 1985
Year Set in UC: 0087
Set eight years after the original series, Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam dives deeper into the political and moral complexities of the Universal Century.
The story shifts to a new protagonist, Kamille Bidan, a troubled teenager who becomes entangled in the conflict between the oppressive Titans, an elite Earth Federation task force, and the rebellious Anti-Earth Union Group (AEUG).
Zeta Gundam is darker and more mature in tone compared to its predecessor, reflecting the increasing brutality and cynicism of the post-war era.
The series explores themes of trauma, identity, and the cyclical nature of violence, all while pushing the boundaries of animation for its time.
How it fits here: Though the main character is different, this is a direct sequel to the original Gundam and explores the universe after the one year war.
Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ
Release Year: 1986
Year Set in UC: 0088
Description: Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ serves as a direct sequel to Zeta Gundam, continuing the story immediately after the events of the Gryps Conflict.
Initially, the series takes on a lighter, more comedic tone, providing a stark contrast to the grim atmosphere of Zeta. However, as the story progresses, the tone gradually shifts back to a more serious and darker narrative, particularly in the second half.
The series introduces new characters, such as Judau Ashta, a scrappy Newtype from a space colony, who becomes the pilot of the new Gundam ZZ.
How it fits here: It is a direct sequel to Zeta Gundam. On top of that Gundam ZZ contains crucial plot developments that lead directly into the events of much loved Char’s Counterattack and Gundam Unicorn.
So even if you see people asking you to skip it, YOU DEFINITELY SHOULDN’T!!
Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack
Release Year: 1988
Year Set in UC: 0093
Char’s Counterattack is the climactic conclusion to the long-running rivalry between Amuro Ray and Char Aznable, two of the most iconic characters in the Gundam franchise.
Set 14 years after the One Year War, this film depicts Char’s return as the leader of the Neo Zeon movement, with a plan to force humanity to migrate into space by dropping an asteroid onto Earth. The film is a visual and thematic tour de force, showcasing some of the most intense and beautifully animated space battles in the series.
It also delves deep into the ideological conflicts and personal vendettas that have driven the UC timeline, culminating in a final showdown that has become legendary in the anime world.
How it fits here: Char’s Counterattack is not just a conclusion to the Amuro-Char saga, but also a pivotal moment in the Universal Century, setting the stage for future conflicts and narratives. Absolutely unmissable.
Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory
Release Year: 1991
Year Set in UC: 0083
Stardust Memory is a 13-episode OVA that bridges the gap between the original Mobile Suit Gundam and Zeta Gundam, exploring the events that lead to the rise of the Titans.
The series follows the crew of the Albion, a Federation ship tasked with recovering a stolen Gundam prototype carrying nuclear weapons, as they chase a rogue Zeon faction across the Earth and into space.
The story is rich in political intrigue, setting the stage for the oppressive regime of the Titans in Zeta Gundam.
How it fits here: While it can be watched before or after Zeta, it’s generally recommended to view it afterward, as it provides additional context and answers to the questions raised in Zeta.
However, if you still feel like watching it before, feel free to do so!!
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin
Release Year: 2015-2018
Year Set in UC: 0068-0079
The Origin serves as a prequel to the original Mobile Suit Gundam, exploring the events that led to the outbreak of the One Year War. It’s essentially a reimagined version of the original 0079 Gundam.
The series is divided into six OVA episodes, each focusing on different aspects of the early Universal Century, particularly the rise of the Zabi family and the origins of Char Aznable, one of the most iconic characters in the franchise.
The Origin delves deep into the political machinations, family betrayals, and personal vendettas that set the stage for the conflict that would engulf the entire Earth Sphere. The series also provides a detailed look at the development of mobile suits, including the early prototypes that would eventually lead to the creation of the RX-78-2 Gundam.
How it fits here (IMPORTANT): While The Origin offers a backstory and deeper understanding of the characters and events leading up to the original series, it’s highly recommended to watch the 1979 Mobile Suit Gundam first to avoid spoilers and to better appreciate the connections between the two series.
Many recommended watch orders online might suggest you start your Gundam journey with Origins, however, that will be a poor choice and is not something I recommend.
Watching Origins is like watchin Fate/Zero after original Fate series – it puts a lot of things into perspective and is best enjoyed that way.
Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan’s Island
Release Year: 2022
Year Set in UC: 0079
Cucuruz Doan’s Island is a film adaptation of a previously omitted episode (a retelling or expansion of events from Origin too) from the original Mobile Suit Gundam series.
The story follows Amuro Ray as he encounters Cucuruz Doan, a Zeon deserter living on a remote island with a group of war orphans.
The film expands on the original episode, providing a deeper exploration of Doan’s character and his reasons for abandoning the war. Cucuruz Doan’s Island offers a unique perspective on the One Year War, focusing on themes of redemption, pacifism, and the personal cost of conflict.
How it fits here: While it can be enjoyed on its own, watching the original Mobile Suit Gundam series first is recommended, as it follows the chronological order of events from The Origin but doesn’t directly reference it.
I say its optional because you can watch the movie after completing the main storyline, and it won’t make much of a difference. I partly wanted to include this in the side stories, but since it is connected to Amuro, it’s best not to miss it.
The watch order is upto you. Either watch it immediately after Origins, or after you are done with the Main UC timeline.
Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn
Release Year: 2010-2014
Year Set in UC: 0096
With Gundam Unicorn, we are back to the main timeline again, serving as both a sequel to Char’s Counterattack and a modern reintroduction to the Gundam universe.
Set in UC 0096, the series follows Banagher Links, a young pilot who becomes embroiled in the search for Laplace’s Box, a mysterious object said to hold the key to the future of the Universal Century.
The story delves into the legacy of the One Year War, the ongoing tensions between Earth and the space colonies, and the secrets that have shaped the history of the Universal Century.
The series also reintroduces familiar faces from the UC timeline, providing closure to long-standing story arcs while paving the way for new ones.
How it fits here: While Unicorn is seen as an entry point for new Gundam fans by the staff, it’s highly recommended to watch the core UC series first (including 0079, Zeta, ZZ, and Char’s Counterattack) to fully appreciate its depth and references.
WATCH THE 6 EPISODE OVA SERIES (1-hr episode each) AND NOT THE TV VERSION.
Unicorn was created as an OVA series, and the best watching experience can be found in that. TV version of the OVA comes with episode recaps etc. which can break the flow of the story.
However, if you find that the OVAs are too dense and hard to follow, feel free to shift to the TV version of Unicorn.
Mobile Suit Gundam Narrative
Release Year: 2018
Year Set in UC: 0097
Gundam Narrative is set a year after the events of Gundam Unicorn and continues to explore the mysteries of Newtypes and the potential of human evolution. This instalment might not be everyone’s favorite, but there are merits to it and should not be missed.
The story follows a new cast of characters, including Jona Basta, a pilot with a troubled past, and Rita Bernal, a girl believed to possess extraordinary psychic abilities.
The film delves into the concept of “narratives” or untold stories within the Gundam universe, examining the impact of the events of Unicorn on the broader UC timeline.
Gundam Narrative offers intense action sequences, philosophical musings on the nature of humanity, and a deeper exploration of the Newtype phenomenon.
How it fits here: While it can be enjoyed as a standalone film, it’s best viewed after Gundam Unicorn as it is directly connected to it and the core UC series to fully grasp its themes and references.
Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash
Release Year: 2021
Year Set in UC: 0105
Description: Hathaway’s Flash is a film entry in the UC timeline, based on a novel by Gundam creator Yoshiyuki Tomino. The story follows Hathaway Noa, the son of Bright Noa, who has become disillusioned with the Earth Federation and leads a terrorist organization known as Mafty.
The film explores the political corruption, environmental degradation, and social inequality that plague the Earth Federation in the years following Char’s Counterattack and Gundam Unicorn.
Hathaway’s Flash is notable for its stunning animation, complex character dynamics, and its exploration of the moral ambiguities of rebellion. The film offers a more mature and introspective take on the Gundam universe, with a focus on the psychological and ideological struggles of its protagonist.
How it fits here: As the first part of a planned trilogy, Hathaway’s Flash sets the stage for a new era in the UC timeline, making it a must-watch for fans eager to see where the story goes next.
However, due to its connections to Char’s Counterattack, it’s recommended to watch the main UC entries first to fully appreciate the nuances of the film.
This is a special case though.
Technically, Hathaway is set after the events of Gundam Unicorn. HOWEVER, the novel from which Hathaway was adapted, was written by Tomino BEFORE Unicorn was ever written. So there are no direct references or connections to the series. So, you can watch this safely before watching Unicorn.
Side stories and OVAs:
The side stories and OVAs I list here are not directly connected to the main story of Gundam anime. However, watching these shows will help you deepen the understanding of the Gundam universe and expands on its lore and world-building.
You can safely watch these side stories & OVAs after you are done with the main storyline. However, I will also be recommending where they fit in the Universal Century timeline, so it is up to you when to watch them!
I have marked some series as must watch, simply for how good they are and how much they can improve your Gundam watching experience.
Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (Must watch)
Release Year: 1996
Year Set in UC: 0079
The 08th MS Team offers a ground-level view of the One Year War, focusing on a small unit of Federation soldiers fighting in the jungles of Southeast Asia.
This 12-episode OVA stands out for its realistic portrayal of military tactics and the camaraderie among soldiers, contrasting the epic space battles typical of Gundam.
The series follows Shiro Amada, the newly appointed commander of the 08th Mobile Suit Team, as he navigates the challenges of leadership, romance, and the harsh realities of war. The series also features a Romeo-and-Juliet-style love story between Shiro and Aina Sahalin, a Zeon pilot.
How it fits here: You can basically watch this OVA right after the original Gundam series. It is not connected to the main storyline, instead portrays how normal soldiers live their lives among the giant mecha wars.
Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (Must Watch)
Release Year: 1989
Year Set in UC: 0080
War in the Pocket (one of my personal favorites) is a departure from the typical Gundam narrative, focusing less on grand battles and more on the personal impact of war. It is a masterful exploration of the human condition, making it one of the most critically acclaimed entries in the Gundam franchise.
This six-episode OVA tells the story of Al, a young boy living in a neutral colony, who becomes friends with a Zeon soldier unaware of his true identity. As Al becomes more involved in the conflict, he begins to understand the devastating reality of war, far from the glorified battles he imagined.
War in the Pocket is a poignant and heartbreaking tale that highlights the futility and tragedy of war through the eyes of an innocent child. The series is notable for its grounded approach, emphasizing the human cost of conflict over mecha action.
How it fits here: It’s a perfect entry point for those new to Gundam, especially those who appreciate more intimate, character-driven stories.
You can watch War in the Pocket after original Gundam, before you jump into Zeta. It gives you breather, before you get into the more grim Zeta storyline.
Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO
Release Year: 2004-2006
Year Set in UC: 0079
MS IGLOO is a series of CGI OVAs that delve into the darker, often overlooked aspects of the One Year War, focusing on the engineers, scientists, and soldiers of the Principality of Zeon.
The series is divided into three parts: The Hidden One Year War, Apocalypse 0079, and Gravity of the Battlefront.
Each segment offers a different perspective on the war, highlighting the sacrifices and moral dilemmas faced by those on the losing side. MS IGLOO is unique in its focus on experimental weapons and the often tragic fate of those who develop and test them.
While not as character-driven as other Gundam series, MS IGLOO provides valuable insight into the broader conflict and the human cost of technological advancement in warfare.
How it fits here: Like other OVAs this one too is a standalone. Watching the original Mobile Suit Gundam first is necessary to fully appreciate the context and significance of MS IGLOO.
Yeah, the CGI isn’t the best, and sometimes hard to look at, but if you are a true Gundam fan you won’t skip this. Timeline wise, you can watch it after 0079, but I’d prefer keeping it for after 08th MS.
Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt (Must watch for visual spectacle)
Release Year: 2015-2017
Year Set in UC: 0079
Gundam Thunderbolt offers a brutal, jazz-infused take on the One Year War, focusing on the intense battles between the Federation’s Moore Brotherhood and the Zeon’s Living Dead Division in the Thunderbolt Sector, a debris-filled zone in space.
The series follows Io Fleming, a Federation pilot with a love for jazz music, and Daryl Lorenz, a Zeon sniper with a tragic past. The story is dark and gritty with top notch animation!
Now, Thunderbolt has a 4-episode OVA series and also 2 movies. I recommend you watch just the two movies, titled December Sky and Bandit Flower. Not only do they have the same content as the OVA but also add more to it.
While the first movie is widely praised for its intensity and artistry, the second season’s pacing issues slightly detract from the overall experience.
Nevertheless, Gundam Thunderbolt is a must-watch for fans of the UC timeline looking for a grittier, more mature take on the Gundam universe. Also, third movie when?
How it fits here: Chronologically comes after original Gundam 0079. However, this one is a total standalone. Enjoy it whenever you want. But I suggest not to miss this one at all!
Mobile Suit Gundam: Twilight Axis
Release Year: 2017
Year Set in UC: 0096
Twilight Axis is a short ONA series set shortly after the events of Gundam Unicorn, focusing on a group of characters investigating the remains of the Axis asteroid.
The story follows Arlette Almage and Danton Hyleg, two former Zeon engineers, as they uncover secrets related to the remnants of Neo Zeon.
While the series is brief and somewhat experimental in its storytelling approach, it provides additional context and depth to the post-Unicorn era of the UC timeline.
How it fits here: Due to its reliance on prior knowledge of the UC timeline and its characters, Twilight Axis is best suited for dedicated fans who have already seen the core series and are looking for supplementary content.
The series’ unique visual style and its exploration of the lingering effects of the wars fought in the Universal Century make it an interesting, if niche, addition to the Gundam canon.
Late Universal Century Timeline
The following entries are set in the later years of the Universal Century timeline, far beyond the events of the original series. While these series can be watched independently, they are best appreciated with prior knowledge of the early UC timeline, as they carry forward many of its themes and ideas.
Mobile Suit Gundam F91
Release Year: 1991
Year Set in UC: 0123
Gundam F91 marks the beginning of a new chapter in the Universal Century, set over 40 years after the events of Char’s Counterattack.
The film introduces a new cast of characters and a fresh conflict, centered around the emergence of the Crossbone Vanguard, a group seeking to establish an aristocratic society in space.
The story follows Seabook Arno, a young pilot who takes control of the F91 Gundam to protect his friends and family. Gundam F91 explores themes of legacy, identity, and the cyclical nature of war, while also addressing the social and political changes in the UC timeline.
Originally intended as a full TV series, the film condenses its narrative into a fast-paced, visually stunning experience.
How it fits here: While F91 can be watched without prior knowledge of the UC timeline, understanding the broader context of the series enhances the viewing experience.
Mobile Suit Victory Gundam
Release Year: 1993
Year Set in UC: 0153
Victory Gundam is set even further into the future of the Universal Century, depicting a darker and more dystopian era where the Earth Federation has become weak and the Zanscare Empire rises to power.
The story follows Uso Ewin, the youngest Gundam protagonist, who becomes embroiled in the conflict as the pilot of the Victory Gundam. The series is known for its intense and often brutal depiction of war, reflecting the harsh realities of a world in decline.
The series is a challenging watch, with a tone that is considerably darker than previous Gundam entries, but it offers a powerful and thought-provoking narrative that resonates with the overarching themes of the Universal Century.
How it fits here: Victory Gundam is best suited for viewers who are already familiar with the Gundam universe, as it builds on the legacy of previous series while presenting a starkly different vision of the future.
UC Production watch order:
This is a simple order – the order in which the anime series were actually released, and the order in which the staff of the anime intended the series to be watched.
The changes in animation are much smoother here. And the retcons that happen in the story won’t catch you completely off-guard. Check out the list below (I have mentioned the release dates in brackets).
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0079 (1979)
- Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985)
- Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (1986)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (1988)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (1989)
- Mobile Suit Gundam F91 (1991)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (1991)
- Mobile Suit Victory Gundam (1993)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (1996)
- Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO (2004)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (2010)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt (2015)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (2015)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Twilight Axis (2017)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Narrative (2018)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash (2021)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan’s Island (2022)
Gundam Universal Century Chronological Watch Order:
By chronological order, I mean the order in which the events of the anime took place. I will be adding in the side stories and OVAs according to the timeline that they are set in. However, this is not a watch order that I will recommend for first time watchers.
This is a more expansive, and a bit flawed watch order, which can be enjoyed by seasoned Gundam fans. There are a lot of shifts in the animation quality too in this order, so yeah, sticking to this order is totally on you!
This list follows the chronological order of events within the Universal Century timeline (with dates in the brackets).
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (UC 0068-0079)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0079 (UC 0079)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan’s Island (UC 0079)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (UC 0079)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt (UC 0079)
- Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO (UC 0079)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (UC 0080)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (UC 0083)
- Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (UC 0087-0088)
- Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (UC 0088-0089)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (UC 0093)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (UC 0096)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Twilight Axis (UC 0096)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Narrative (UC 0097)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash (UC 0105)
- Mobile Suit Gundam F91 (UC 0123)
- Mobile Suit Victory Gundam (UC 0153)
Alternate Universe Timelines
The Alternate Universe (AU) timelines in the Gundam franchise offer a diverse array of stories and settings, each independent of the others and the Universal Century (UC) timeline.
These series can be watched in any order as no prior knowledge of the Gundam universe is necessary. If you really are interested in checking out the shows in the AU, I will suggest that you start with Gundam 00, Iron Blooded Orphans and Witch From Mercury.
The latter is the latest entry in the AU and a perfect place to start!!
Here’s a breakdown of the major AU timelines and their respective series:
Future Century Timeline
Future Century is a unique Gundam timeline where nations settle disputes through the Gundam Fight, a global tournament. Pilots representing their countries battle in high-stakes matches, with the winning nation gaining significant influence.
Mobile Fighter G Gundam
Year Released: 1994
Set in a world where conflicts between nations are resolved through Gundam fights, G Gundam offers a unique departure from the traditional war-centric narratives of other Gundam series.
It blends elements of martial arts with mecha combat, with each nation’s representative Gundam fighting in a tournament to decide the ruling country. The series is known for its over-the-top action, colorful characters, and a storyline that emphasizes personal honor and redemption.
After Colony/Mars Century Timeline
This timeline focuses on the struggles and the oppression faced by the Space colonies and how they are trying to fight. The Gundams were made to protect these colonies.
Mobile Suit Gundam Wing
Year Released: 1995
Gundam Wing is set in the After Colony timeline, where Earth’s oppressive rule over space colonies leads to the deployment of five Gundam pilots to ignite a revolution. The series focuses on the philosophical and ethical struggles of war, with a strong emphasis on political intrigue and the human cost of conflict. Its popularity in the West helped to bring Gundam to a global audience.
Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz
Year Released: 1997
A direct sequel to Gundam Wing, Endless Waltz explores the aftermath of the events in the original series. The movie reveals the true history behind the Gundams and their pilots, delving deeper into themes of peace and conflict resolution. It offers closure to the events of Wing.
After War Timeline
Now After War timeline will be very interesting to the original Gundam, as it is set in a post war time period with many similarities and themes to UC timeline. The best part, this AU timeline also features the Newtypes from the main UC timeline.
After War Gundam X
Year Released: 1996
Set in a post-apocalyptic world following a devastating war between Earth and its space colonies, Gundam X explores the aftermath of societal collapse and the struggle for survival.
The series is darker in tone, focusing on the consequences of war and the efforts to rebuild civilization. It’s a unique take on the Gundam formula, with a setting that emphasizes the fragility of human progress.
Cosmic Era (CE) Timeline
The Cosmic Era timeline is one of the most popular and well-developed AU timelines, with multiple series and ONAs.
Mobile Suit Gundam SEED
Year Released: 2002
Gundam SEED is set in the Cosmic Era, where tensions between genetically enhanced Coordinators and natural-born Humans escalate into full-scale war. The series follows Kira Yamato, a young Coordinator who becomes a Gundam pilot despite his desire for peace.
Known for its high-stakes drama, epic battles, and emotional depth, Gundam SEED can be seen as a modern reimagining of the original Gundam series, introducing a new generation to the franchise.
Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny
Year Released: 2004
A direct sequel to Gundam SEED, this series continues the story of the Cosmic Era with new characters and conflicts. Shinn Asuka, a pilot for the ZAFT military, takes center stage as the series explores themes of revenge, power, and the cycle of war.
The remastered edition includes the Final Plus: The Chosen Future episode, which provides an alternative ending to the original series.
Mobile Suit Gundam SEED C.E. 73: Stargazer
Year Released: 2006
This OVA explores a side story within the Cosmic Era, focusing on the development of the Stargazer Gundam and the efforts to find peace amidst the ongoing war. It offers a more introspective look at the consequences of conflict, with a smaller, more personal scale compared to the mainline series.
Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom
Year Released: 2024
The highly anticipated continuation of the Cosmic Era story, Gundam SEED Freedom is set a year after the Second Alliance-PLANT War. It follows Kira Yamato, who leads a peace-keeping organization to combat remaining conflicts.
A new threat, Foundation, emerges with sinister plans, forcing Kira and his allies to battle for peace once more.
Anno Domini Timeline
The Anno Domini (AD) timeline depicts a world divided by economic disparity.
A secret organization, Celestial Being, employs advanced mobile suits known as Gundams to combat injustice and end war. Their actions ignite global conflict as major powers struggle for dominance.
The 00 series, which is set in this timeline, focuses more on action and geopolitics, with lot of intrigue going on behind the scenes. It does a good job portraying different sides of the war, and how motivations eventually clash into conflicts.
Honestly, this is one of the best series in the AU universe and you should definitely give this a try, especially for how well it handles the effects of war on a larger scale.
Mobile Suit Gundam 00
Year Released: 2007
Set in the real-world Anno Domini calendar, Gundam 00 is a politically charged series that explores the use of advanced technology by the paramilitary group Celestial Being to end all wars.
The series is notable for its complex characters, realistic geopolitical conflicts, and stunning animation. It presents a multi-perspective narrative that delves into the ethics of war and the pursuit of peace.
Mobile Suit Gundam 00 Second Season
Year Released: 2008
The second season of Gundam 00 continues the story with higher stakes and more intense battles as Celestial Being faces new threats and challenges. The series delves deeper into the characters’ motivations and the consequences of their actions, culminating in a dramatic conclusion.
Mobile Suit Gundam 00 the Movie: Awakening of the Trailblazer
Year Released: 2010
The movie serves as the finale to the Gundam 00 series, introducing an extraterrestrial threat that forces humanity to unite or face extinction. The film is action-packed and visually spectacular, while also addressing the themes of understanding and coexistence.
It’s an essential watch for fans of Gundam 00, providing closure to the series.
Advanced Generation Timeline
The Advanced Generation (AG) timeline follows the Asuno family across three generations. Set in a post-war world, they face new threats that force them to pilot evolving Gundams.
Mobile Suit Gundam AGE
Year Released: 2011
Gundam AGE spans multiple generations, following the Asuno family as they pilot the Gundam AGE to protect Earth from alien invaders.
The series is divided into three arcs, each focusing on a different protagonist, and explores the impact of war across generations. It’s a unique entry in the Gundam franchise, offering a blend of traditional Gundam elements with a fresh, multi-generational narrative.
SD Gundam Timeline
This is a comedic, bordering on sarcastic, yet super light hearted version of Gundam.
SD Gundam Series (MKI~MKV)
Year Released: 1988-1993
The SD Gundam series is a light-hearted, super-deformed spin-off of the main Gundam franchise. It features chibi-style versions of the iconic mobile suits in comedic and often whimsical adventures. The series is a fun, family-friendly alternative to the more serious mainline Gundam shows, appealing to younger audiences and long-time fans alike.
SD Gundam Force
Year Released: 2003
SD Gundam Force continues the tradition of the SD Gundam series with a full-length animated series that mixes humor, action, and adventure. It’s set in an alternate world where Gundams are living beings, and the series follows their battle to protect their world from evil forces.
Honestly, it’s a great entry point for younger viewers or those looking for a more light-hearted take on Gundam.
Present Day Timeline
This timeline features two series – Gundam Build Fighter, and Gundam Build Divers. Both these series are set in our present day.
Build Fighters is et in our present day, where Gunpla (Gundam model kits) have become a global phenomenon. Whereas Build Divers shifts the focus to a virtual world called G-World, where players can build and battle Gunpla in a digital space.
Both these series are akin to modern day series like Beyblade or even an MMORPG game based one.
Now, I did say that Alternate Universe series can be enjoyed with prior knowledge of the UC main timeline series. HOWEVER, if you have watched them, then watching and enjoying Build series will become 10x more enjoyable, thanks to the references it makes and the easter eggs it has.
It’s not necessary, just that it improves the experience.
Gundam Build Fighters
Year Released: 2013
Gundam Build Fighters is a unique entry in the Gundam franchise, set in a world where Gunpla (Gundam model kits) battles are a popular sport.
The series is a shounen-style tournament show with intense battles and a likable cast of characters. It’s a celebration of the entire Gundam franchise, filled with Easter eggs and references for long-time fans, while also being accessible to newcomers.
Gundam Build Fighters Try
Year Released: 2014
A sequel to Build Fighters, this series introduces a new generation of characters and takes the Gunpla battles to new heights. It continues the tournament-style format, with even more dynamic battles and character development.
Gundam Build Divers
Year Released: 2018
Gundam Build Divers takes the concept of Gunpla battles into a virtual reality setting, where players compete in a massive online game. The series explores themes of teamwork, friendship, and the joy of creation. It’s a modern take on the Build Fighters formula, with updated technology and a new set of characters. NOTE: This is NOT A SEQUEL TO BUILD FIGHTERS
Gundam Build Divers Re:RISE
Year Released: 2019
A direct sequel to Build Divers, this series continues the story with a new cast of characters and a deeper, more mature narrative. It expands on the virtual world of Gunpla Battle Nexus Online, offering more complex battles and character interactions.
Post Disaster Timeline
Post Disaster Era is set in a world recovering from a devastating war caused by AI-powered Mobile Armors. The story follows young orphans fighting for survival and independence against a powerful military organization.
Themes of child soldiers, political corruption, and the struggle for freedom dominate this timeline. The mecha battles are toned down, and the stories are character driven, which makes it quite different from a typical Gundam entry.
Once again, this is a great series, right alongside ’00’, in the alternate universe, and is a show you should definitely watch!
Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans
Year Released: 2015
Iron-Blooded Orphans” is a gritty and emotionally charged series set in the Post Disaster timeline. It follows a group of child soldiers as they fight for their freedom and survival in a harsh, unforgiving world. The series is known for its deep character development, realistic portrayal of war, and exploration of themes such as family, loyalty, and the cost of freedom.
Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans 2nd Season
Year Released: 2016
The second season of Iron-Blooded Orphans continues the story of Tekkadan as they face new challenges and enemies.
The series delves deeper into the political landscape of the Post Disaster world, with even higher stakes and more intense battles. It’s a powerful conclusion to the story, offering a sobering look at the consequences of war and the price of freedom.
Ad Stella Timeline
Ad Stella is the newest Gundam timeline, introduced in Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury.
Set in a future where humanity has expanded into space, it explores themes of corporate influence, social inequality, and technological advancements.
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury
Year Released: 2022
Set in a future dominated by corporations, it follows Suletta Mercury, a young girl from a remote colony, as she enrolls in a prestigious space academy. The series uniquely blends coming-of-age drama with political intrigue.
It’s a modern Gundam series that combines the traditional elements of the franchise with new twists and turns. The focus on a female protagonist makes it a unique entry into the franchise and is equally interesting!
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury Season 2
Year Released: 2023
The second season, or essentially the second cour, of The Witch from Mercury continues the story with even more drama, action, and character development.
The series builds on the foundation laid in the first season, offering a deeper exploration of the Ad Stella world and its characters. To pique your interests, we might even have a yuri romance interest developing in the series here, so I’d say you should not miss this one.