So, you finally made up your mind to watch Gundam? Good choice, because you’ll witness one of the classics in anime history. But how are you going to do it?
It can get pretty confusing with all the Universal Timeline, Alternate Versions, and Spinoff routes. But you can be at ease because we made the perfect Gundam Watch Order guide for you.
Gundam Watch Order!
1. Mobile Suit Gundam (0079)
- Episodes: 43
- Duration: 25 min. per ep
The one where it all began. I mean, of course, the story isn’t but the release of anime. According to the Universal watch order, the first anime you need to watch is Mobile Suit Gundam.
Although Mobile Suit Gundam: Origin sets before the events of 0079, there is a reason why they released it way later. It’s better if you follow the production order as it gives you more entertainment.
2. Mobile Suit Gundam III: Encounters in Space
- Episodes: 1 (movie)
- Duration: 2 hr. 20 min
Wait, why is there movie three and not the previous ones? Simple, there is a movie trilogy that improved the pace and graphics of the original series, and this one is a part of it.
But do remember that the movies sacrificed a lot of characterization, and we still recommend you go through the TV series and watch this movie for a better ending.
3. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam
- Episodes: 50
- Duration: 24 min. per ep
Zeta Gundam is more like a second installment of the franchise, and it even surpasses the first part in terms of story, production value, and action.
So, once you have finished watching part one and the third movie (if you want to love the first part even more), then you can jump right into this part.
4. Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ
- Episodes: 47
- Duration: 24 min. per ep
After watching two continuous blockbusters, you’ll have to bear the criticism with this one. It’s a good anime, but there is just a lot of change compared to the last two parts.
Nonetheless, it is hilarious and if you want to get a clear understanding of the story, want to cheer up a little bit, this one is a must-watch. So, make sure to view it after Zeta Gundam.
5. Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack
- Episodes: 1 (movie)
- Duration: 1 hr. 59 min
Char’s Counterattack is a movie that sets after the events of ZZ anime. Although it isn’t as fire as the previous seasons, it is still a pretty good watch if you want to explore the timeline.
Gundam is meant to be seen this way according to the production order, and if you view this movie after Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ, you’ll definitely get a clue on what’s going on.
6. Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket
- Episodes: 6
- Duration: 27 min. per ep
War in the Pocket is an OVA, but why do we still have to watch it regardless of its connection to the storyline? It packs more character development than the whole Gundam series.
You might not be able to find any usefulness in progressing the anime’s story, but it makes a difference. It might even become your favorite part in the entire Gundam franchise.
7. Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory
- Episodes: 13
- Duration: 30 min. per ep
Yet another OVA you need to watch in this franchise. It isn’t very story-related, but once you’ve watched it, you’ll be glad.
The animation, superb sci-fi action, and mobile suit battles are freaking amusing. So, once you’re done watching 0080 OVA, why don’t you give this one a try as well.
8. Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team
- Episodes: 12
- Duration: 25 min. per ep
The 08th MS Team is not necessarily a canon part, but still, it is a must-watch. As you want to feel the Gundam series to its best, we figured this OVA series is a must.
Although it doesn’t add up to the main storyline, you’ll find another reason to love the Gundam franchise from this one. So, make sure to watch this OVA either after Stardust memory or at the end of your watch.
9. Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn
- Episodes: 7
- Duration: 1 hr. 2 min per ep
Following Char’s Counterattack, Gundam Unicorn sets after its events and one series from the main timeline. This one is a gem of the Gundam franchise and a must-watch since it is canon.
If you’ve started binging Gundam anime, you can watch this part either after Char’s Counterattack or after watching those couple of OVA series. However, it would hit different if you go on by the latter way.
10. Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt
- Episodes: 4
- Duration: 18 min. per ep
Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt is a brutal story, to be honest, and it doesn’t fully adapt the manga. But there are tons of reasons why you should be watching it.
The way it presents the war and rivalry between the ace pilots is far better than its manga. Isn’t that what every anime viewer wants? So, this anime gives you what you exactly want and worth a watch.
11. Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin
- Episodes: 6
- Duration: 1 hr. 11 min per ep
The main purpose of Gundam: The Origin is not only to set up the origin story for Gundam but for the entire franchise. But that doesn’t mean you need to watch this one first.
If you watch this one after completing all the canon parts, you’ll witness one of the greatest works among the Gundam franchise. So, we strongly suggest you watch this one later.
Is Gundam Worth Watching?
Well, it’s understandable that you have this kind of thought on your mind but let it go for just this once. Gundam is one of the classics, and even if you’re not into the Mecha genre, it’ll pull you right in.
So, once you had thought of watching it, you need not think twice. After watching the series, you’ll be glad for giving it a try because it is surprisingly awesome.
Let’s Conclude!
Gundam is a vast franchise, and if you’re going to do it, it better be in chronological order to get a good grasp of the storyline. I guess this Gundam watch order guide will be helpful to you.
There is no better order than Universal choice. So, get on with your watch and have a great day. If you have any queries regarding the watch order, feel free to let us know from the comment section below.
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