Gundam Watch Order: The Ultimate & Simple Guide to Enjoying the Mecha Anime Series!

This is a suggested watch order (which I hope you will follow), and I’ll also present a chronological watch order (later in the article), so make sure to check both out.

Main Universal Century timeline watch order:

Following this order will grant you a deep insight into the intricate narrative arcs and character growth that defines the UC timeline.

It more or less adheres to the production order, aside from the OVAs and side stories I will address in the following section.

Behold the main story timeline. For those who seek to enjoy the Gundam saga, the anime listed here will suffice.

Mobile Suit Gundam

Release Year: 1979
Year Set in UC: 0079

Mobile Suit Gundam is the origin of the Gundam narrative, introducing audiences to the conflict-ridden realm of the Universal Century.

Taking place during the One Year War, the series chronicles the journey of the White Base crew, a Federation warship, as they confront the Principality of Zeon. Central to the plot is Amuro Ray, a young pilot who becomes the operator of the RX-78-2 Gundam, regarded as one of the most legendary mechas in anime history.

How it fits here: As the foundational entry in the Gundam franchise, Mobile Suit Gundam is indispensable for anyone aiming to grasp the wider context of the UC timeline.

It lays the foundation for the overarching themes that resonate throughout the series.

About the trilogy movies (IMPORTANT): It’s understandable if the original anime’s animation and visuals don’t attract you. In that case, a movie trilogy consolidates and streamlines the original Gundam series story.

I would still advocate for watching the original anime over the movies since their pacing can feel rather rushed. Nevertheless, watching the third movie, titled Encounters in Space, is imperative as it alters the original Gundam anime’s ending, aligning it better with the continuity of the UC timeline.

Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam

Release Year: 1985
Year Set in UC: 0087

Taking place eight years after the original series, Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam delves into the political and moral complexities of the Universal Century.

The narrative shifts focus to a new protagonist, Kamille Bidan, a troubled youth who becomes embroiled in the struggle between the oppressive Titans, an elite Earth Federation task force, and the rebellious Anti-Earth Union Group (AEUG).

Zeta Gundam adopts a darker and more mature tone compared to its predecessor, reflecting the rising brutality and cynicism of the post-war period.

The series probes into themes of trauma, identity, and the cyclical nature of violence, all the while pushing the boundaries of animation artistry for its time.

How it fits here: Although the lead character differs, this directly succeeds the original Gundam and investigates the universe after the One Year War.

Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ

Release Year: 1986
Year Set in UC: 0088

Description: Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ acts as a direct sequel to Zeta Gundam, continuing the narrative right after the tumultuous Gryps Conflict.

Initially, the series adopts a lighter, more comedic feel, starkly contrasting the grim tone of Zeta. However, as the story progresses, the mood gradually shifts back to a more serious and darker narrative, especially in the latter half.

New characters, such as Judau Ashta, a determined Newtype from a space colony, step into the spotlight as he takes the reins of the new Gundam ZZ.

How it fits here: It directly follows Zeta Gundam. Furthermore, Gundam ZZ contains significant plot developments that directly lead into the beloved Char’s Counterattack and Gundam Unicorn.

So even if you hear people advising you to skip it, YOU REALLY SHOULD NOT!!

Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack

Release Year: 1988
Year Set in UC: 0093

Char’s Counterattack serves as the climactic finale to the longstanding rivalry between Amuro Ray and Char Aznable, two of the most iconic figures in the Gundam saga.

Fourteen years after the One Year War, this film showcases Char’s return as the leader of the Neo Zeon movement, intending to compel humanity to migrate to space by dropping an asteroid on Earth. The film is both a visual and thematic triumph, showcasing some of the most intense and beautifully rendered space battles in the series.

Moreover, it delves deeply into the ideological clashes and personal grudges that have driven the UC timeline, culminating in a final confrontation that has become legendary within the anime landscape.

How it fits here: Char’s Counterattack is not merely a conclusion to the Amuro-Char saga but also a transformative moment in the Universal Century, laying the groundwork for forthcoming conflicts and narratives. Unmissable.

Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory

Release Year: 1991
Year Set in UC: 0083

Stardust Memory is a 13-episode OVA that fills the gap between the original Mobile Suit Gundam and Zeta Gundam, examining the events leading to the rise of the Titans.

The series follows the Albion crew, a Federation ship, as they pursue a rogue Zeon faction attempting to reclaim a stolen Gundam prototype armed with nuclear weapons.

The narrative brims with political intrigue, establishing the oppressive regime of Titans within 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 questions raised in Zeta.

However, if you prefer to watch it first, go ahead!!

Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin

Release Year: 2015-2018
Year Set in UC: 0068-0079

The Origin acts as a precursor to the original Mobile Suit Gundam, delving into the occurrences that incited the One Year War. It effectively reimagines the original 0079 Gundam.

The series comprises six OVA episodes, each spotlighting different elements of the early Universal Century, particularly the ascent of the Zabi family and the origins of Char Aznable, one of the franchise’s most prominent figures.

The Origin intimately explores political scheming, familial betrayals, and personal vendettas that set the stage for the conflict engulfing the entire Earth Sphere. The series also provides a thorough insight into mobile suit development, including the early prototypes that eventually culminated in the RX-78-2 Gundam.

How it fits here (IMPORTANT): While The Origin presents a backstory and an enriched understanding of the characters and events leading to the original series, it’s highly advisable to first watch the 1979 Mobile Suit Gundam to avoid spoilers and better appreciate the connections between the two series.

Many recommended watch orders found online may suggest starting your Gundam journey with Origins, but I absolutely do not endorse this approach.

Watching Origins is akin to viewing Fate/Zero after the original Fate series – it offers significant perspective and is best relished in that sequence.

Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan’s Island

Release Year: 2022
Year Set in UC: 0079

Cucuruz Doan’s Island adapts a previously omitted episode (retelling or expanding upon events from The Origin) from the original Mobile Suit Gundam series.

The plot follows Amuro Ray as he encounters Cucuruz Doan, a Zeon deserter residing on a secluded island with a group of war orphans.

The film enriches the original episode, offering a deeper examination of Doan’s motives behind leaving the war. Cucuruz Doan’s Island presents a unique perspective on the One Year War, emphasizing redemption, pacifism, and the personal repercussions of conflict.

How it fits here: While it can be enjoyed independently, it’s recommended to first watch the original Mobile Suit Gundam series since it chronicles the events from The Origin without directly referencing it.

Its optionality allows for viewing after completing the main storyline, without significant impact. I initially considered placing this in the side stories, but since it connects to Amuro, it’s worth including.

The watch order is yours to decide. You can watch it right after Origins or after finishing the Main UC timeline.

Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn

Release Year: 2010-2014
Year Set in UC: 0096

With Gundam Unicorn, we return to the main timeline, acting as both a sequel to Char’s Counterattack and a contemporary reintroduction to the Gundam universe.

Set in UC 0096, the series follows Banagher Links, a young pilot drawn into the quest for Laplace’s Box, an enigmatic object believed to hold the key to the Universal Century’s future.

The plot investigates the legacy of the One Year War, the ongoing strife between Earth and the space colonies, and the secrets shaping the UC timeline’s history.

The series also reintroduces well-known figures from the UC timeline, resolving long-standing story arcs while setting the stage for new ones.

How it fits here: Although Unicorn is perceived as an entry point for new Gundam fans by its creators, it’s advised to first watch the core UC series (including 0079, Zeta, ZZ, and Char’s Counterattack) to fully appreciate its nuances and references.

WATCH THE 6 EPISODE OVA SERIES (1-hour episodes each) RATHER THAN THE TV VERSION.

Unicorn was crafted as an OVA series, providing the most pleasurable viewing experience in that format. The TV version includes episode recaps that could disrupt the narrative flow.

However, should you find the OVAs to be overly dense and difficult to follow, feel free to switch 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 Gundam Unicorn’s events and further explores the mysteries surrounding Newtypes and the possibilities of human evolution. This installment may not resonate with everyone, but it possesses merits that shouldn’t be overlooked.

The narrative follows a new cast, featuring Jona Basta, a pilot with a troubled history, and Rita Bernal, a girl believed to have extraordinary psychic abilities.

The film investigates the notion of “narratives” or untold tales within the Gundam universe, analyzing the implications of Unicorn’s events on the broader UC timeline.

Gundam Narrative is rich with intense action scenes, philosophical reflections on humanity’s essence, and an in-depth examination of the Newtype phenomenon.

How it fits here: Though it can be enjoyed as an independent film, it’s best viewed after Gundam Unicorn due to its direct connections 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 within the UC timeline, adapted from a novel by Gundam creator Yoshiyuki Tomino. The plot revolves around Hathaway Noa, Bright Noa’s son, who becomes disillusioned with the Earth Federation and heads a terrorist organization known as Mafty.

The film critiques political corruption, environmental decay, and the social disparities that besiege the Earth Federation following Char’s Counterattack and Gundam Unicorn.

Hathaway’s Flash is celebrated for its exceptional animation, intricate character relationships, and its exploration of the moral complexities surrounding rebellion. The film presents a more mature and contemplative perspective on the Gundam universe, focusing on its protagonist’s ideological and psychological conflicts.

How it fits here: As the first part of an anticipated trilogy, Hathaway’s Flash lays the groundwork for a new epoch in the UC timeline, making it a must-watch for fans eager to grasp future developments.

That said, due to its ties to Char’s Counterattack, it’s advisable to watch the main UC entries beforehand to fully appreciate the film’s complexities.

This is somewhat of an exception.

Technically, Hathaway is set after the events of Gundam Unicorn. HOWEVER, the novel from which Hathaway was derived was written by Tomino BEFORE Unicorn was conceived. Therefore, there are no direct links or references to the series, allowing you to watch this comfortably before engaging with Unicorn.

Side stories and OVAs:

The side stories and OVAs mentioned here are not directly linked to the main Gundam narrative. However, exploring these shows will deepen your comprehension of the Gundam universe and elaborate on its lore and world-building.

You can safely watch these side stories & OVAs after completing the main storyline. Yet, I’ll also indicate where they fit within the Universal Century timeline, so it’s up to you when to watch them!

Some series are marked as must-watch due to their exceptional quality and their ability to enhance your Gundam viewing experience.

Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (Must watch)

Release Year: 1996
Year Set in UC: 0079

The 08th MS Team provides a ground-level view of the One Year War, focusing on a small cadre of Federation soldiers battling in the jungles of Southeast Asia.

This 12-episode OVA distinguishes itself through its realistic depiction of military strategies and the bond among soldiers, contrasting the grandiose space battles typical of Gundam.

The narrative follows Shiro Amada, the recently appointed commander of the 08th Mobile Suit Team, as he navigates leadership challenges, romance, and the dire realities of war. The series features a Romeo-and-Juliet-esque romance between Shiro and Aina Sahalin, a Zeon pilot.

How it fits here: You can essentially watch this OVA right after the original Gundam series. It’s not linked to the main storyline but illustrates how ordinary soldiers navigate their lives amidst the colossal mecha warfare.

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 faves) diverges from the conventional Gundam narrative, placing less emphasis on major battles and more on the personal toll of war. It is a profound exploration of the human experience, earning it critical acclaim within the Gundam franchise.

This six-episode OVA tells the tale of Al, a young boy living in a neutral colony, who befriends a Zeon soldier oblivious to his true identity. As Al grows more involved in the conflict, he starts to grasp the devastating truths of war, far removed from the glorified battles he once envisioned.

War in the Pocket is a poignant and heart-wrenching story that underscores the futility and tragedy of conflict from the perspective of an innocent child. The series is recognized for its grounded approach, highlighting the human cost of warfare over mecha action.

How it fits here: It serves as an ideal entry point for those new to Gundam, particularly for viewers who value intimate, character-driven dramas.

You can watch War in the Pocket after the original Gundam before proceeding to Zeta. It gives you a breather before delving into the more somber narrative of Zeta.

Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO

Release Year: 2004-2006
Year Set in UC: 0079

MS IGLOO consists of a series of CGI OVAs investigating the darker, frequently overlooked aspects of the One Year War, concentrating 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 presents a different perspective on the war, spotlighting the sacrifices and moral dilemmas confronted by those on the losing side. MS IGLOO sets itself apart through its focus on experimental weapons and the often tragic destinies of those who design and test them.

While not as character-centric as other Gundam series, MS IGLOO provides invaluable insights into the broader conflict and the human toll of technological advancement in warfare.

How it fits here: Like other OVAs, this too is a standalone venture. Watching the original Mobile Suit Gundam is necessary to fully comprehend the context and significance of MS IGLOO.

Yes, the CGI may be subpar at times and somewhat challenging to watch, yet if you’re a true Gundam enthusiast, you won’t want to skip this. Timelinewise, you can check it out after 0079, but I personally prefer keeping it for after The 08th MS Team.

Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt (Must watch for visual spectacle)

Release Year: 2015-2017
Year Set in UC: 0079

Gundam Thunderbolt presents a brutally intense, jazz-infused perspective on the One Year War, focusing on fierce confrontations between the Federation’s Moore Brotherhood and Zeon’s Living Dead Division in the Thunderbolt Sector, a space littered with debris.

The story follows Io Fleming, a Federation pilot with a passion for jazz, and Daryl Lorenz, a Zeon sniper with a troubled past. The narrative is dark and gritty, accompanied by top-tier animation!

Thunderbolt consists of a 4-episode OVA series and 2 films. I suggest watching just the two movies, titled December Sky and Bandit Flower. They encapsulate the same storyline as the OVA but add more depth.

While the first film is widely praised for its intensity and artistic quality, the second season’s pacing issues somewhat affect the overall enjoyment.

Nevertheless, Gundam Thunderbolt is a must-watch for UC timeline enthusiasts seeking a grittier, more mature interpretation of the Gundam universe. Also, when is the third movie coming out?

How it fits here: Chronologically, it follows the original Gundam 0079. However, this is a standalone work. Enjoy it whenever you wish. But don’t overlook this one!

Mobile Suit Gundam: Twilight Axis

Release Year: 2017
Year Set in UC: 0096

Twilight Axis is a brief ONA series set shortly after the events of Gundam Unicorn, concentrating on characters probing the remains of the Axis asteroid.

The storyline follows Arlette Almage and Danton Hyleg, two former Zeon engineers, as they unravel secrets pertaining to the remnants of Neo Zeon.

Despite its brevity and somewhat experimental storytelling approach, the series contributes extra context and depth to the post-Unicorn era of the UC timeline.

How it fits here: Given its reliance on prior knowledge of the UC timeline and its characters, Twilight Axis best suits dedicated fans who have already viewed the core series and seek supplementary content.

The series’ unique visual style and its investigation of the lingering effects of conflicts within the Universal Century make it an intriguing, albeit niche, addition to the Gundam canon.

Late Universal Century Timeline

The following entries are situated in the later years of the Universal Century timeline, well past the events of the original series. While these series can be watched on their own, they are best appreciated with prior exposure to 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 initiates a new chapter in the Universal Century, set more than 40 years after Char’s Counterattack events.

The film presents a new ensemble of characters and a novel conflict, focusing on the emergence of the Crossbone Vanguard, a group striving to establish an aristocratic society in space.

The narrative follows Seabook Arno, a young pilot who commandeers the F91 Gundam to safeguard his friends and family. Gundam F91 explores themes of legacy, identity, and the repetitive nature of warfare while addressing the socio-political transformations within the UC timeline.

Originally conceived as a full-length TV series, the film condenses its narrative into a rapid-paced, visually stunning experience.

How it fits here: Although F91 can be enjoyed without previous knowledge of the UC timeline, understanding the broader context enhances the overall viewing experience.

Mobile Suit Victory Gundam

Release Year: 1993
Year Set in UC: 0153

Victory Gundam is set even further into the Universal Century’s future, depicting a more somber, dystopian age where the Earth Federation has weakened, and the Zanscare Empire rises to prominence.

The plot revolves around Uso Ewin, the youngest Gundam protagonist, who becomes embroiled in the conflict as the Victory Gundam’s pilot. The series is known for its intense and often harsh portrayal of warfare, mirroring the stark realities of a declining world.

The series provides a more challenging watch, with a tone considerably darker than earlier Gundam installments, yet it delivers a powerful, thought-provoking tale that aligns with the overarching themes of the Universal Century.

How it fits here: Victory Gundam is best experienced by viewers already familiar with the Gundam narrative, as it builds upon the legacy of prior series while illustrating a distinctly different vision for the future.

UC Production watch order:

This is a straightforward sequence – the order in which the anime series were initially released and the sequence intended by the creators for viewing.

The shifts in animation quality are much smoother here. Additionally, any narrative retcons that occur will not catch you off guard. Check out the following list (with release dates included).

1. Mobile Suit Gundam 0079 (1979)
2. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985)
3. Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (1986)
4. Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (1988)
5. Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (1989)
6. Mobile Suit Gundam F91 (1991)
7. Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (1991)
8. Mobile Suit Victory Gundam (1993)
9. Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (1996)
10. Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO (2004)
11. Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (2010)
12. Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt (2015)
13. Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (2015)
14. Mobile Suit Gundam Twilight Axis (2017)
15. Mobile Suit Gundam Narrative (2018)
16. Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash (2021)
17. Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan’s Island (2022)

Gundam Universal Century Chronological Watch Order:

By chronological order, I’m referring to the sequence in which the events of the anime occurred. I will also integrate the side stories and OVAs based on their respective timelines. That said, this isn’t a watch order I would recommend for newfound viewers.

This is a more extensive and somewhat flawed viewing order that seasoned Gundam fans can enjoy. There are numerous variations in animation quality too in this order, so it’s up to you to decide!

This list adheres to the events’ chronological sequence within the Universal Century timeline (dates included in the brackets).

1. Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (UC 0068-0079)
2. Mobile Suit Gundam 0079 (UC 0079)
3. Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan’s Island (UC 0079)
4. Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (UC 0079)
5. Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt (UC 0079)
6. Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO (UC 0079)
7. Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (UC 0080)
8. Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (UC 0083)
9. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (UC 0087-0088)
10. Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (UC 0088-0089)
11. Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (UC 0093)
12. Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (UC 0096)
13. Mobile Suit Gundam: Twilight Axis (UC 0096)
14. Mobile Suit Gundam Narrative (UC 0097)
15. Mobile Suit Gundam: Hathaway’s Flash (UC 0105)
16. Mobile Suit Gundam F91 (UC 0123)
17. Mobile Suit Victory Gundam (UC 0153)

Alternate Universe Timelines

The Alternate Universe (AU) timelines within the Gundam franchise offer an array of diverse stories and contexts, each independent from one another and the Universal Century (UC) timeline.

These series can be watched in any order, as no previous knowledge of the Gundam universe is necessary. If you’re keen on exploring shows in the AU, I recommend starting with Gundam 00, Iron Blooded Orphans, and Witch From Mercury.

The latter is the latest entry in the AU and an excellent starting point!!

Here’s an overview of the major AU timelines and their corresponding series:

Future Century Timeline

Future Century stands out as a unique Gundam timeline where nations resolve conflicts through the Gundam Fight, a global tournament. Pilots representing their countries battle in high-stakes matches, with the triumphant nation gaining considerable influence.

Mobile Fighter G Gundam

Year Released: 1994

Set in a world where global disputes are settled through Gundam fights, G Gundam offers a distinct divergence from the traditional war-centric narratives found in other Gundam series.

It merges elements of martial arts with mecha combat, with each nation’s representative Gundam battling in a tournament to determine the ruling country. The series is recognized for its exaggerated action, vibrant characters, and a storyline emphasizing personal honor and redemption.

After Colony/Mars Century Timeline

This timeline centers on the struggles and oppression experienced by the Space colonies as they battle for protection. The Gundams are developed to safeguard these colonies.

Mobile Suit Gundam Wing

Year Released: 1995

Gundam Wing occurs within the After Colony timeline, where Earth’s tyrannical control over space colonies prompts the deployment of five Gundam pilots to incite a revolution. The series focuses on the philosophical and ethical dilemmas of war, underscoring the political intrigue and human costs associated with conflict. Its success in the West helped to introduce Gundam to a global audience.

Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz

Year Released: 1997

A direct continuation of Gundam Wing, Endless Waltz explores the aftermath of events from the original series. The movie reveals the true history behind the Gundams and their pilots, delving deeper into themes of peace and resolving conflicts. It offers resolution to the happenings of Wing.

After War Timeline

The After War timeline shares intriguing similarities with the original Gundam, as it unfolds in a post-war era, touching upon many themes pertinent to the UC timeline. Notably, this AU timeline features Newtypes from the main UC timeline.

After War Gundam X

Year Released: 1996

Set in the aftermath of a cataclysmic war between Earth and its space colonies, Gundam X illuminates the consequences of societal collapse and the survival struggle.

This series adopts a darker tone, focusing on the aftermath of war and the challenges of reconstructing civilization. It approaches the Gundam formula from a unique standpoint, emphasizing human progress’s fragility.

Cosmic Era (CE) Timeline

The Cosmic Era timeline ranks among the most favored and well-realized AU timelines, boasting several series and ONAs.

Mobile Suit Gundam SEED

Year Released: 2002

Gundam SEED unfolds in the Cosmic Era, where tensions between genetically enhanced Coordinators and naturally-born humans escalate into all-out warfare. The series follows Kira Yamato, a young Coordinator who reluctantly becomes a Gundam pilot despite his desire for peace.

Renowned for its high-stakes drama, epic confrontations, and emotional resonance, Gundam SEED can be viewed as a contemporary reinterpretation 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 advances the Cosmic Era narrative with new characters and conflicts. Shinn Asuka, a soldier in the ZAFT military, takes center stage while the series delves into themes of vengeance, authority, and warfare’s cyclical nature.

The remastered edition introduces the Final Plus: The Chosen Future episode, which presents an alternative conclusion 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, concentrating on the development of the Stargazer Gundam and the attempts at peace amid the ongoing conflict. It provides a more introspective glance at the repercussions of strife, with a smaller, more personal scope compared to the mainline series.

Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom

Year Released: 2024

The highly anticipated continuation of the Cosmic Era saga, Gundam SEED Freedom is set one year post the Second Alliance-PLANT War. It centers on Kira Yamato, who spearheads a peacekeeping organization combating lingering conflicts.

A new adversary, Foundation, unveils malicious schemes, compelling Kira and his allies to battle for harmony yet again.

Anno Domini Timeline

The Anno Domini (AD) timeline paints a world marred by economic inequalities.

A clandestine organization, Celestial Being, wields advanced mobile suits known as Gundams to confront injustice and obliterate warfare. Their initiatives kindle global conflict as major powers vie for supremacy.

The 00 series, situated in this timeline, places greater emphasis on action and geopolitical manipulation, infused with substantial intrigue. It adeptly portrays the divergent facets of war and how motivations ultimately collide.

Genuinely, this is one of the standout series in the AU universe and you should definitely give it a shot, particularly for its effective depiction of war’s broader implications.

Mobile Suit Gundam 00

Year Released: 2007

Set in the real-world Anno Domini calendar, Gundam 00 is a politically charged narrative that assesses the paramilitary organization Celestial Being’s utilization of advanced technology to eradicate all wars.

The series is distinguished by its layered characters, realistic geopolitical scenarios, and stunning animation. It presents a multi-perspective story that explores the ethics of warfare and the pursuit of peace.

Mobile Suit Gundam 00 Second Season

Year Released: 2008

The second season of Gundam 00 continues the narrative with heightened stakes and more intense confrontations as Celestial Being encounters new perils. The series dives deeper into the protagonists’ motivations and the consequences of their decisions, culminating in a dramatic conclusion.

Mobile Suit Gundam 00 the Movie: Awakening of the Trailblazer

Year Released: 2010

The film acts as the finale to the Gundam 00 series, introducing an extraterrestrial menace that compels humanity to unite or face extinction. The movie features fast-paced action and stunning visuals, while also addressing themes of understanding and coexistence.

It’s an essential viewing for Gundam 00 enthusiasts, providing closure to the series.

Advanced Generation Timeline

The Advanced Generation (AG) timeline traces the Asuno family through three generations. Set in a post-war landscape, they confront new threats that drive them to pilot evolving Gundams.

Mobile Suit Gundam AGE

Year Released: 2011

Gundam AGE encompasses several generations, chronicling the Asuno family’s endeavor to pilot the Gundam AGE and shield Earth from alien invaders.

The series splits into three arcs, each spotlighting a different protagonist, and explores the impact of warfare across generations. It emerges as a distinct entry within the Gundam narrative, blending traditional Gundam elements with a fresh, multi-generational storyline.

SD Gundam Timeline

This timeline provides a comedic, sometimes sarcastic yet light-hearted take on Gundam.

SD Gundam Series (MKI~MKV)

Year Released: 1988-1993

The SD Gundam series is a playful, super-deformed spin-off from the main Gundam franchise. It features chibi-style interpretations of iconic mobile suits in humorous and often whimsical escapades. The series serves as a delightful, family-friendly alternative to the more serious primary Gundam shows, appealing to both younger audiences and long-time fans.

SD Gundam Force

Year Released: 2003

SD Gundam Force continues the SD Gundam tradition with a full-length animated series blending humor, action, and adventure. It unfolds in an alternate realm where Gundams are living entities, and the plot centers around their struggle against nefarious forces.

It’s a fantastic entry point for younger viewers or those seeking a more light-hearted interpretation of Gundam.

Present Day Timeline

This timeline showcases two series – Gundam Build Fighters and Gundam Build Divers. Both series are set in our present-day context.

Build Fighters is set in our current age, where Gunpla (Gundam model kits) have become a colossal phenomenon. Meanwhile, Build Divers shifts focus to a virtual realm known as G-World, where participants can build and battle Gunpla in a digital setting.

Both series draw parallels to contemporary programming like Beyblade or MMORPG-style games.

Now, while I previously mentioned that the Alternate Universe series can be enjoyed with prior knowledge of the UC main timeline series, having that background will elevate your enjoyment of the Build series tenfold, considering the references and Easter eggs present.

While it’s not obligatory, it certainly enhances the experience.

Gundam Build Fighters

Year Released: 2013

Gundam Build Fighters stands out as a unique entry in the Gundam franchise, set in a world where Gunpla (Gundam model kits) battles have evolved into a popular sport.

The series adheres to a shounen-style tournament format featuring intense confrontations and a charismatic cast of characters. It serves as a tribute to the entire Gundam legacy, brimming with Easter eggs and references for long-time fans while being accessible to newcomers.

Gundam Build Fighters Try

Year Released: 2014

This sequel to Build Fighters introduces a new generation of characters and elevates the Gunpla battles to new heights. It persists with the tournament-style format, showcasing even more dynamic encounters and character development.

Gundam Build Divers

Year Released: 2018

Gundam Build Divers takes the Gunpla battle concept into a virtual reality landscape, where contestants compete within an expansive online game. The series delves into themes of teamwork, friendship, and the delight of creation. It presents a modern reinterpretation of the Build Fighters premise, integrating updated technology and a fresh group of characters. NOTE: This is NOT A SEQUEL TO BUILD FIGHTERS

Gundam Build Divers Re:RISE

Year Released: 2019

This direct sequel to Build Divers continues the saga with a new ensemble of characters and a more intricate, mature narrative. It expands the virtual universe of Gunpla Battle Nexus Online, introducing more complex battles and character interplay.

Post Disaster Timeline

Post Disaster Era unfolds in a world grappling with recovery from a devastating conflict ignited by AI-driven Mobile Armors. The narrative follows young orphans striving for independence against a formidable military organization.

Prominent themes of child soldiers, political corruption, and the quest for freedom dominate this timeline. The mecha confrontations are comparatively subdued, and the stories are character-driven, distinctly marking a divergence from conventional Gundam entries.

Once again, this series stands out alongside ‘00’ within the alternate universe, and is one you should absolutely watch!

Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans

Year Released: 2015

Iron-Blooded Orphans is a raw, emotionally charged series situated in the Post Disaster timeline. It narrates the trials of a group of child soldiers as they fight for autonomy and survival in a harsh, unforgiving environment. The series is acclaimed for its profound character development, realistic war portrayal, and exploration of themes like 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 Tekkadan’s journey as they confront new adversities and opponents.

The series delves deeper into the political landscape of the Post Disaster world, introducing even higher stakes and more intense confrontations. It culminates in a powerful conclusion that offers a sobering reflection on warfare’s aftermath and the price of liberation.

Ad Stella Timeline

Ad Stella represents the newest Gundam timeline, introduced in Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury.

Located in a future where humanity has reached into space, it navigates themes of corporate dominance, social inequality, and technological progress.

Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury

Year Released: 2022

Set within a corporate-dominated future, it follows Suletta Mercury, a young girl from a remote colony, who enrolls in a prestigious space academy. The series merges coming-of-age drama with political intrigue.

It represents a modern addition to the Gundam franchise, intertwining traditional aspects with contemporary twists and turns. The focus on a female protagonist notably renders it a unique entry within the franchise, making it equally intriguing!

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 advances the storyline with greater drama, action, and character arcs.

The series builds upon the foundation established in the first season, providing a more profound exploration of the Ad Stella world and its characters. To further captivate your interest, we might witness a developing yuri romance within this series, so I would suggest you don’t miss it.