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Mobile Suit Gundam is one of anime’s most iconic franchises—but figuring out where to start can feel like trying to piece together a timeline after a colony drop. With over a dozen alternate universes, spin-offs, and sequels spanning more than four decades, newcomers and even longtime fans can easily get overwhelmed.
That’s why I created this guide: to break down every official Gundam timeline, explain how they connect (or don’t), and show you exactly where to begin—whether you’re a first-time pilot or a returning veteran looking to dive back in.
We’ll cover each major timeline, what series fall under it, which ones are worth your time, and where you can stream or buy them today.
Where to Start If You’re New to Gundam
If you’ve ever looked up Mobile Suit Gundam and immediately closed the tab out of sheer confusion, you’re not alone. Between the multiple timelines, dozens of series, and decades of history, getting into Gundam can feel like a full-time job. But the good news? You don’t have to watch it all—or even start at the beginning—to enjoy it.
Here are a few great starting points, depending on what kind of story or tone you’re looking for:
I want a modern Gundam that’s grounded and emotional
Start with: Iron-Blooded Orphans
This one hits hard—in a good way. It’s serious, character-driven, and totally self-contained, so you don’t need any prior Gundam knowledge. If you’re into anime like Attack on Titan or 86, this will be right up your alley.
I want something recent with a fresh twist
Start with: The Witch from Mercury
New characters, a new timeline, and a setting that blends school life, politics, and mobile suit battles. It’s accessible, stylish, and easy to get into—great for both newcomers and longtime fans who want something different.
I want to see where it all started
Start with: Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) or the movie trilogy
This is the origin of the franchise—Amuro Ray, Char Aznable, the RX-78-2 Gundam. The original series is slower by today’s standards, but the trilogy tightens it up nicely. It’s essential if you want to dive deep into the lore later on.
I grew up on Toonami and want a nostalgia trip
Start with: Gundam Wing
This was my introduction to Gundam—watching the uncut version during Toonami’s Midnight Run. Back then, I was pulled in by the intense action, dramatic rivalries, and how cool the Gundams looked. Wing has a lot of big personalities, over-the-top moments, and unforgettable mobile suit designs that made it stand out, especially if you were a kid discovering anime for the first time. It’s not the most polished series in the franchise, but it’s got that early 2000s energy that still holds up for nostalgic fans.
I want a short series I can finish quickly
Start with: War in the Pocket or The 08th MS Team
Both are compact, emotionally driven stories set during the One Year War, and you don’t need to be deep into the Universal Century timeline to appreciate them. War in the Pocket focuses on innocence lost and the civilian perspective of war, while The 08th MS Team tells a more grounded story about frontline soldiers wrestling with loyalty, love, and what it means to be human in the middle of a conflict. They’re both great if you want something meaningful, complete, and easier to digest than a full-length series.
Quick Note
You don’t need to follow a strict order to enjoy Gundam. Most timelines are completely separate from one another, so feel free to pick the one that clicks with you and go from there. Once you’ve found a series you like, you can always come back to this guide to explore its full timeline.
Gundam Timeline Table of Contents
- Universal Century
- Future Century
- After Colony
- After War
- Correct Century
- Cosmic Era
- Anno Domini
- Advanced Generation
- Post Disaster
- Ad Stella
- Universal Century – GQuuuuuuX
Universal Century
What is the Universal Century Timeline?
The Universal Century—often shortened to UC—is the original Gundam timeline and the backbone of the entire franchise. It all begins with Mobile Suit Gundam (1979), set in UC 0079 during a brutal conflict known as the One Year War. The war pits the Earth Federation against the rebellious space colonies of the Principality of Zeon, and it introduces two of the most iconic characters in anime: Amuro Ray and Char Aznable.
Their rivalry kicks off when Char leads an attack on Side 7, Amuro’s home colony. Amid the chaos, Amuro stumbles upon a prototype mobile suit—his father’s secret project, the RX-78-2 Gundam. In a desperate bid to protect what’s left of his colony, he becomes its pilot. From there, the story explores the human cost of war, shifting loyalties, and the clash of ideals that drive both sides.
Unlike many anime where the protagonist carries the whole narrative, Mobile Suit Gundam shares the spotlight. Side characters, military commanders, civilians, and even enemy pilots all play crucial roles. The result is a world that feels lived-in and morally complex, with no easy answers.
Why Universal Century Matters
When Mobile Suit Gundam first aired in 1979, it redefined what mecha anime could be. Instead of flashy robot battles for their own sake, it focused on military realism, psychological depth, and the toll of conflict—qualities that continue to shape Gundam today. Over the past 40+ years, the UC timeline has expanded into a sprawling saga with sequels, side stories, and prequels that explore every corner of its universe.
It’s hands-down the most developed and interconnected timeline in the Gundam multiverse. And while that can feel intimidating at first, it’s also the most rewarding if you’re interested in rich worldbuilding and long-running character arcs.
Is Universal Century Worth Watching?
Absolutely—especially if you want to see where Gundam started and why it became a landmark in anime history.
If you’re short on time, the original 1979 series was condensed into a trilogy of compilation films that hold up remarkably well:
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Movie
- Mobile Suit Gundam II: Soldiers of Sorrow
- Mobile Suit Gundam III: Encounters in Space
They streamline the story while preserving its most important moments and character arcs.
If you’re more of a reader, I highly recommend the Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin manga published by Vertical. It’s available in a beautiful 12-volume hardcover edition and retells the original story with updated art and expanded character backstories. It’s easily one of the best sci-fi manga I’ve read.
Recommended Universal Century Watch Order (Production Order)
Organized for best viewing experience — mainline entries first, with side stories added where they make the most sense:
Core UC Storyline
- Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)
- Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985)
- Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (1986)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack (1988)
Early Side Stories and Prequels
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (1989)
- Mobile Suit Gundam F91 (1991)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (1991–92)
- Mobile Suit Victory Gundam (1993)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team (1996–99)
- Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO Trilogy (2004–2009)
- The Hidden One Year War
- Apocalypse 0079
- MS IGLOO 2: The Gravity Front
Modern UC Installments
- Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn (2010–14)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Narrative (2018)
- Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway (2021–ongoing)
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance (2024) – 6-part CGI ONA exploring the Zeon perspective during the One Year War
Optional/Alternate Views
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin (OVA, 2015–18) – Prequel to 0079, best watched after or as a rewatch companion
- Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt (2015–17) – Can be watched after 0079 or Unicorn
- Mobile Suit Gundam Twilight Axis (2017) – Short and only for completists
- Mobile Suit Gundam: Cucuruz Doan’s Island (2022) – Retelling of a cut episode from 0079
- Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin – Advent of the Red Comet (TV recut, 2019) – Retells OVA with minor edits
- Gundam: Silver Phantom (2024, VR Short) – Experimental VR project set in UC 0096
Bonus (Disputed Canon)
- Reconguista in G (2014) – Takes place ~1,000 years after UC; consider it optional or spiritual successor to UC
Where to Watch All of the Gundam Series in Universal Century
See where you can stream all of the Gundam anime series in the Universal Century timeline below! Some of the series aren’t currently streaming on any streaming services, so I’ve added links to their Blu-ray collections.
Note: Keep an eye on Gundam’s official YouTube channel, because they put up limited-time streams of Gundam series on occasion.
| Series | Stream (Sub/Dub) | Buy Blu-ray |
|---|---|---|
| Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) | Crunchyroll ✅/✅ | Amazon |
| Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985) | Crunchyroll ✅/✅ | Amazon |
| Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ (1986) | Crunchyroll ✅/❌ | Amazon |
| Char’s Counterattack (1988) | Not available | Amazon |
| Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket (1989) | Not available | Amazon |
| Gundam F91 (1991) | Not available | Amazon |
| Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory (1991–92) | Not available | Amazon |
| Victory Gundam (1993) | Not available | Amazon |
| 08th MS Team (1996–99) | Hulu ✅/✅ | Amazon |
| Gundam Unicorn (2010–14) | Crunchyroll ✅/❌ | Amazon |
| Gundam Narrative (2018) | Not available | Amazon |
| Gundam Hathaway (2021–) | Netflix ✅/✅ | Not available |
| The Origin (OVA, 2015–18) | Crunchyroll ✅/✅ | Amazon |
| Thunderbolt (2015–17) | Not available | Not available |
| Twilight Axis (2017) | Not available | Not available |
| Cucuruz Doan’s Island (2022) | Crunchyroll ✅/✅ | Amazon |
* Availability may change. Some links are affiliate links and may earn a commission at no extra cost to you.
Future Century
What is the Future Century Timeline?
The Future Century timeline is home to just one series: Mobile Fighter G Gundam. Set in a world where Earth’s nations now reside in orbital colonies, war has been replaced by a high-stakes tournament. Every four years, each colony sends its own Gundam to Earth to compete in a global fighting competition. The winner’s country earns the right to rule space—until the next tournament comes around.
The story follows Domon Kasshu, the hot-blooded pilot of Neo Japan’s Shining Gundam. Domon isn’t just fighting for victory—he’s on a personal mission to find a man linked to a mysterious tragedy from his past. As he battles his way through the tournament, Domon meets powerful rivals, eccentric fighters, and discovers secrets that go far beyond the ring.
Future Century Background
G Gundam was released in 1994 as the franchise’s first major departure from the Universal Century timeline. At the time, Gundam was trying to reach a new audience, and G Gundam took a bold leap by blending mecha combat with martial arts anime tropes. It traded large-scale military conflict and political drama for one-on-one duels, exaggerated national Gundams, and high-energy action.
This creative shift split fans at first, but over the years, G Gundam has gained a cult following thanks to its unique tone, memorable characters, and willingness to do something completely different with the Gundam formula.
Should You Watch Mobile Fighter G Gundam?
If you’re brand new to Gundam and looking to understand the franchise’s core themes, this probably isn’t the best place to start. G Gundam is a genre twist—it’s closer to a tournament shonen than a war drama. That said, if you’re in the mood for something fun, self-contained, and wildly over-the-top, it’s absolutely worth checking out.
This is the Gundam series where characters scream the names of their attacks, Gundams represent countries in hilariously exaggerated ways, and every fight is filled with passion and flair. It’s not for everyone—but if you go in with an open mind and a love for ‘90s anime energy, you might be surprised by how much heart this series has.
Where to Watch Mobile Fighter G Gundam
After Colony
What is the After Colony Timeline?
The After Colony timeline begins with Mobile Suit Gundam Wing, set in AC 195. The series opens with Operation Meteor—a retaliatory strike against the Organization of the Zodiac (OZ), a shadowy military faction that controls the Earth Sphere Alliance from behind the scenes. To fight back, five young Gundam pilots are sent to Earth, each with their own mission and reasons for taking part in the rebellion.
Gundam Wing places heavy emphasis on political drama, shifting allegiances, and character development. While there’s no shortage of flashy mobile suit battles, the core of the story lies in its ideological conflicts and its cast of emotionally complex teenagers caught in a war much bigger than themselves.
After Colony Background
For many Western fans—including me—Gundam Wing was the first real exposure to the franchise. It premiered on Cartoon Network’s Toonami block in 2000, and later ran in its uncut form during the Midnight Run. For a lot of us, the Gundam aesthetic, political tension, and brooding characters left a huge impression—even if we didn’t quite grasp all the philosophical undertones at the time.
Compared to G Gundam, which flipped the formula completely, Wing returned to something closer to the spirit of the original Mobile Suit Gundam, but with a sharper edge. It took the serious tone of war, added highly stylized characters and iconic mobile suits, and introduced them to a new generation of viewers in the West.
Should You Watch Mobile Suit Gundam Wing?
It depends on what you’re looking for. Gundam Wing hasn’t aged quite as well as some of the other series. Its plot is convoluted, its pacing uneven, and its themes sometimes get muddled under melodrama. But if you grew up with it—or if you’re curious about what made Gundam click for an entire wave of Western fans—there’s still something special here.
The character designs, the mobile suits, and the intense (if often confusing) storyline all have a unique charm. That said, if you want a more coherent version of the story, I recommend the manga adaptation, Mobile Suit Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz – Glory of the Losers. It spans 14 volumes, includes expanded lore and side stories, and retells the events of the anime in a much more polished and thoughtful way.
After Colony Watch Order
- Mobile Suit Gundam Wing – 49 episodes
- Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz – 3-episode OVA or compilation film (set after the series finale)
Where to Watch Gundam Wing
After War
What is the After War Timeline?
The After War timeline is home to After War Gundam X, set 15 years after the devastating 7th Space War. In this world, civilization is barely holding together. Earth’s surface is scarred by war, and groups of scavengers known as Vultures roam the wastelands in massive land battleships, salvaging old tech and surviving however they can.
The story follows Garrod Ran, a cynical loner who gets hired to rescue a mysterious Newtype girl named Tiffa Adill. During his mission, he stumbles upon the powerful Gundam X in an abandoned facility—and from there, everything changes. Garrod eventually joins a group of morally grounded Vultures who are dedicated to protecting Newtypes rather than exploiting them.
What sets Gundam X apart is its tone. Rather than throwing you into the middle of a war, it shows you what happens long after the dust has settled. It’s a story about rebuilding, about the scars left behind, and about the hope that can still be found in a ruined world.
After War Background
Originally airing in 1996, Gundam X was part of the Gundam franchise’s push into alternate timelines. Stylistically, it feels like Gundam meets Fallout or Mad Max, with a gritty post-apocalyptic setting that stands out from the space politics and organized militaries seen in other entries.
Some fans even see the After War timeline as a kind of “what if” version of Universal Century—one where the One Year War escalated into complete catastrophe. Whether that’s intentional or not, the thematic echoes are there: collapsed societies, the legacy of Newtypes, and mobile suits buried beneath the rubble of a dead civilization.
Should You Watch After War Gundam X?
Yes—especially if you’re looking for a Gundam series that feels different. Gundam X is often described as the most underrated entry in the franchise. Its biggest flaw is that it was canceled before finishing its full run, which led to the pacing in the final arc feeling rushed. But up until that point, it’s a thoughtful, emotionally grounded story with a memorable cast and one of the most unique settings in the franchise.
If the idea of exploring the aftermath of war rather than the heat of battle appeals to you, this is a hidden gem worth watching.
Where to Watch After War Gundam X
After War Gundam X is not currently streaming on any platforms, but two Blu-ray collections completely collect the series if you’d like to check it out.
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Correct Century
What is the Correct Century Timeline?
Turn A Gundam (∀ Gundam) takes place in Correct Century 2345, in a far future where humanity is recovering from a cataclysm that left Earth scarred and forgotten. The two main factions—Earth’s remaining population (the Earthrace) and the Moon-dwelling descendants of humanity (the Moonrace)—find themselves at odds as the Moonrace returns to reclaim Earth’s land and resources.
The story centers on Loran Cehack, a kind-hearted boy from the Moon who ends up living among Earth’s people. When tensions rise between the two sides, Loran is forced to pilot the mysterious Turn A Gundam in a desperate attempt to prevent all-out war between the world he was born into and the one he now calls home.
Correct Century Background
Turn A Gundam is a one-of-a-kind entry in the franchise, and the only series in the Correct Century timeline. Directed by Gundam creator Yoshiyuki Tomino, it stands apart both visually and thematically. The mecha were designed by the legendary Syd Mead, the visionary behind the aesthetic of Blade Runner, Aliens, and Tron. The result is a world that feels more like a blend of steampunk, retro-futurism, and myth than anything else in the Gundam multiverse.
And yes, the Turn A Gundam does, in fact, have a mustache. And yes, it rules.
Should You Watch Turn A Gundam?
Absolutely—if you’re looking for something slower, more reflective, and deeply human. Turn A Gundam isn’t about winning battles with superior firepower. It’s about how conflict shapes people, how history is remembered or lost, and how peace can be harder to preserve than war is to wage.
It’s also a great standalone entry. You don’t need to watch any other Gundam series to appreciate its story. For first-time viewers, it’s a thought-provoking introduction to the heart of what Gundam can be. For longtime fans, it offers a breath of fresh air and some of the most memorable thematic payoffs in the franchise.
Where to Watch Turn A Gundam
Turn A Gundam is not currently streaming on any platforms, but two Blu-ray collections completely collect the series.
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Cosmic Era
What is the Cosmic Era Timeline?
The Cosmic Era timeline begins with Mobile Suit Gundam SEED, set in C.E. 70. As with many Gundam series, humanity has expanded into space, creating massive orbital colonies. But society is split: genetically enhanced humans known as Coordinators live primarily in the colonies, while unmodified humans, Naturals, remain on Earth. As fear and resentment toward Coordinators grow, extremist groups like Blue Cosmos incite war between the two factions.
The story follows Kira Yamato, a teenage Coordinator trying to live quietly on the neutral colony of Heliopolis. When ZAFT forces attack the colony to steal prototype Gundams, Kira is thrust into the conflict—piloting the Strike Gundam to protect his friends. Things get even more complicated when he finds himself fighting against Athrun Zala, his childhood friend turned enemy. While Gundam SEED draws heavily from the original Mobile Suit Gundam, it modernizes the themes for a new generation and adds plenty of high-stakes drama.
Cosmic Era Background
The Cosmic Era timeline includes:
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED (2002)
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny (2004)
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED C.E. 73: Stargazer (2006)
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom (2024)
Gundam SEED became a massive hit in the early 2000s, introducing a new generation to the franchise with sleek mobile suit designs, pop idol-style opening themes, and emotionally charged storytelling. It’s one of the most commercially successful entries in Gundam history. In 2024, the long-awaited sequel film Gundam SEED Freedom was released, continuing the story of Kira, Lacus, and the post-SEED Destiny world.
Should You Watch Mobile Suit Gundam Seed?
If you enjoy dramatic twists, emotional character arcs, and stylish battles—this might be your entry point. Gundam SEED is a polarizing series. Some fans love its energy and modern take on classic Gundam themes, while others critique its melodrama and pacing issues—especially in Destiny. Personally, I appreciate the series for what it is: bold, flashy, and emotionally intense.
If you’re drawn to shows with rivalries, complex love triangles, and high-stakes battles, this timeline delivers. Just know going in—it doesn’t always hold back on the drama.
Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Watch Order
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED (50 episodes)
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny (50 episodes)
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED C.E. 73: Stargazer (3 episodes – side story)
- Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom (2024 film – direct sequel to Destiny)
Where to Watch Gundam Seed
Anno Domini
What is the Anno Domini Timeline?
The Anno Domini (A.D.) timeline is unique because it’s set in our own real-world calendar system, roughly 300 years into the future. It’s the setting for Mobile Suit Gundam 00, a series that explores the idea of ending war through armed intervention.
The story follows a private military group known as Celestial Being, which suddenly announces to the world that it will forcibly end all armed conflict—anywhere, anytime. Backed by advanced Gundam technology, four highly trained pilots from different parts of the globe carry out missions designed to destabilize warmongering powers and shift the global balance of power. The catch? They’re fighting violence with violence—and the series constantly challenges whether that’s truly justifiable.
Gundam 00 is built around political tension, philosophical questions, and personal dilemmas. It’s less about massive wars and more about targeted interventions and the costs of trying to change the world by force.
Anno Domini Background
Gundam 00 aired in 2007–2009 and was split into two seasons, followed by a theatrical film:
- Mobile Suit Gundam 00 – Season 1
- Mobile Suit Gundam 00 – Season 2 (set four years later)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 00: A Wakening of the Trailblazer (film sequel)
Tonally, it shares DNA with Gundam Wing—a small team of elite pilots operating outside national borders—but its themes are updated for a post-9/11, globalized world. It also boasts sleek animation, modern character designs, and one of the strongest soundtracks in the franchise.
Should You Watch Mobile Suit Gundam 00?
Yes—especially if you’re new to Gundam and want something modern, tightly written, and thematically rich.
Since it doesn’t tie into any other timeline and uses a real-world calendar, Gundam 00 is extremely beginner-friendly. Its pacing is brisk, the character arcs are compelling, and the show poses meaningful questions about power, peace, and moral compromise. It’s one of the most polished and self-contained entries in the franchise.
Mobile Suit Gundam 00 Watch Order
- Mobile Suit Gundam 00 – Season 1 (25 episodes)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 00 – Season 2 (25 episodes)
- Mobile Suit Gundam 00: A Wakening of the Trailblazer – (2010 film)
Where to Watch Gundam 00
Mobile Suit Gundam 00 the Movie: A wakening of the Trailblazer is not currently streaming on any platforms, but you can shop the Blu-ray.
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Advanced Generation
What is the Advanced Generation Timeline?
Mobile Suit Gundam AGE spans an entire century of conflict known as the “One Hundred Years War,” and follows three generations of the Asuno family, each stepping into the role of Gundam pilot across different eras of the war. The story begins with Flit Asuno, a young boy who discovers the mysterious “AGE Device”—a data unit containing blueprints for a new type of Gundam. As he builds the mobile suit to defend against an alien threat known only as the UE (Unknown Enemy), a legacy begins that will shape the future of humanity.
Advanced Generation Background
Gundam AGE is the sole series in the Advanced Generation timeline. It was a collaboration between Sunrise and video game developer Level-5, known for titles like Professor Layton and Inazuma Eleven. The original concept was intended to be a game, but Bandai shifted gears and adapted it into a full-length anime series in 2011. That legacy is still felt in the show’s structure and style, which borrows heavily from RPG and game-like tropes.
Should You Watch Mobile Suit Gundam Age?
It’s a tough recommendation—even for diehard fans.
Gundam AGE had ambitious ideas: a generational saga, evolving mobile suits, and themes of legacy and war fatigue. But the execution fell short. The story suffers from inconsistent pacing, awkward tone shifts, and a plot that struggles to keep up with its own scope. It also tries to appeal to younger viewers while tackling darker themes, which creates some jarring contrast.
Unless you’re on a mission to watch everything Gundam, this is one you can safely skip. If you’re curious, the first arc (Flit’s story) is the most coherent—just know that it may not pay off the way you’d hope by the end.
Where to Watch Gundam Age
Gundam Age is not currently streaming on any platforms at this time, but two blu-ray collections completely collect the series.
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Post Disaster
What is the Post Disaster Timeline?
The Post Disaster timeline begins in the aftermath of a devastating conflict known as the Calamity War, which left humanity fractured and struggling to rebuild. Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans is set 300 years after that war and explores the lingering consequences—both political and personal—of a world trying to heal while still deeply divided.
Unlike traditional Gundam series that often center on interstellar warfare, Iron-Blooded Orphans grounds its story in human struggle. It follows a group of child soldiers from Mars, led by the quietly intense Mikazuki Augus and his fiercely loyal commander Orga Itsuka. As they rise up against their corporate overlords and fight for Martian independence, they face harsh truths about power, sacrifice, and freedom.
Post Disaster Background
Iron-Blooded Orphans (often abbreviated as IBO) stands alone as the sole series in the Post Disaster timeline. It originally aired in 2015–2017 in two 25-episode seasons, produced by Sunrise and written by Mari Okada. The series is known for its raw tone, intense emotional stakes, and a more grounded approach to the mobile suit genre.
Set primarily on Mars and Earth, the series blends gritty politics with deeply personal storytelling. It also introduces Gundam Barbatos, a relic of the Calamity War, as a symbol of rebellion and survival. The mobile suit battles in IBO are brutal and weighty, often reflecting the internal struggles of the pilots rather than just flashy combat spectacle.
Should You Watch Mobile Suit Gundam Iron Blooded Orphans?
Absolutely—especially if you’re looking for a modern, character-driven Gundam series.
Iron-Blooded Orphans is one of the most emotionally resonant entries in the franchise. It doesn’t shy away from hard topics—child soldiers, systemic exploitation, and the cost of freedom—but handles them with care and weight. For me personally, this series reignited my passion for Gundam. It’s the perfect place to start if you want a story that’s bold, grounded, and unafraid to challenge you.
Newcomers will appreciate how self-contained it is, while longtime fans will find it refreshing in both tone and theme. Just be prepared: this one hits hard, and it doesn’t let go.
Where to Watch Iron Blooded Orphans
Ad Stella
What is the Ad Stella Timeline?
The Ad Stella era marks a new frontier for Gundam—a timeline where space colonization has further deepened the divide between those born in the stars and those left behind on Earth. In this world, the “Spacians” live privileged lives in massive orbital colonies, while the “Earthians” struggle under the weight of environmental collapse and systemic inequality. These tensions form the backdrop for The Witch from Mercury, a story about identity, control, and the cost of innovation in a world dominated by corporate power.
Ad Stella Timeline Background
Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch from Mercury is the first major Gundam series in the Ad Stella timeline and marks a bold new chapter for the franchise. Released in 2022, it introduced several firsts for the series: a female lead pilot in a mainline Gundam show, a more character-focused school setting in the early episodes, and a deeper critique of techno-capitalism and corporate warfare.
Thematically, it blends Shakespearean family drama with the futuristic consequences of biotechnology and cybernetic warfare. The GUND Format—an experimental technology that allows human integration with mobile suits—sits at the center of the series’ ethical and emotional conflicts. Add in visual nods to classic mecha and a distinctly modern tone, and you get a show that’s instantly compelling, yet rich with subtext.
Should You Watch The Witch from Mercury?
Definitely. The Witch from Mercury is not only a fantastic entry point for new viewers—it’s also one of the most emotionally layered Gundam series to date.
For newcomers, it’s accessible, beautifully animated, and doesn’t require any prior knowledge of the franchise. For longtime fans, it’s a breath of fresh air that challenges the formula while honoring what’s come before. The show balances tense political maneuvering with intimate character arcs, and its commentary on capitalism, identity, and systemic oppression feels more timely than ever.
Whether you’re here for the mobile suit battles, the complex characters, or the layered worldbuilding, The Witch from Mercury delivers—and then some.
Where to Watch Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury
Universal Century — GQuuuuuuX Era
What Is the GQuuuuuuX Timeline?
Set in an alternate version of the Universal Century, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX imagines a timeline where the Principality of Zeon wins the One Year War. In this reality, Char Aznable successfully steals the RX-78-02 Gundam during the Side 7 raid, giving Zeon the advantage. With the stolen tech, Zeon cancels their Psycommu Mobile Armor project and instead begins mass-producing Gundam-type suits and powerful weapons like the Big Zam.
Char, piloting a customized “Red Gundam,” ultimately prevents a colony drop by triggering a strange Newtype event called the Zeknova—but disappears in the process. Zeon’s victory reshapes the world, setting the stage for the events of GQuuuuuuX, which follow Amate Yuzuriha, a teenage girl drawn into Mobile Suit clan battles years later.ng both him and the suit to vanish mid-battle. The war ends one year later with Zeon’s decisive victory.
GQuuuuuuX Background
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX is a brand-new series produced by Studio Khara, the team behind the incredible Rebuild of Evangelion films. It’s directed by Kazuya Tsurumaki and written by Hideaki Anno, making it the first official collaboration between the Evangelion and Gundam teams. The first three episodes premiered in Japanese theaters in early 2025, with the full series launching shortly after.
The show offers a unique take on Gundam’s most iconic timeline, using Evangelion’s signature style to explore familiar themes through a very different lens. It’s both a celebration of Gundam history and a bold reimagining of it.
Should You Watch Gundam GQuuuuuuX?
Yes—especially if you’re a fan of either Gundam or Evangelion. With a strong creative team and a compelling alternate universe, GQuuuuuuX delivers something new for long-time fans and is accessible for newcomers alike. It’s especially exciting to see Amate take the lead, making this the second Gundam TV series to feature a female protagonist.
GQuuuuuuX Watch Order
- Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX: Beginning (Compilation Movie: Episodes 1–3, 8, and exclusive scenes)
- Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX (TV Series, 2025)
Final Verdict: Where should you start?
That really depends on what you’re looking for.
If you’re the kind of viewer who wants to see where it all began—the roots of the franchise and the original vision—then start with Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) and dive into the Universal Century timeline. It’s the longest-running and most expansive era in Gundam, filled with rich lore and iconic characters. Just be sure to check the recommended watch order near the top of this post so you don’t get lost.
But if you’re still testing the waters and aren’t quite sure whether Gundam is for you, I’d recommend starting with a stand-alone series like Iron-Blooded Orphans, Gundam 00, or The Witch from Mercury. Each one tells a complete story, no prior Gundam knowledge needed. They’re especially great for anime fans who want a fresh, self-contained introduction to the universe without committing to decades of backstory.
I hope this guide helped you find your jumping-on point for the Gundam franchise! And if you’re thinking about building your first Gunpla model, don’t miss our Beginner’s Guide to Gundam Modeling.
