Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam

In Z Gundam, which is a major sequel to the original Gundam, tells the story of the conflict between A.E.U.G.(the rebels) and the corrupted and ruthless Titans (a special branch of the Earth Federation). The story focuses on a young boy named Kamiyu Vidan (around 17), who, by accident, was pulled into the war between A.E.U.G. and Titans. Kamiyu turns out to be a natural ace pilot, and so under Quattro Bajina of the A.E.U.G (whose real name is Char Aznable) he changes from an average civilian boy to a seasoned soldier. In the course of the story, he is joined by Titan-turned-AEUG pilot Emma Sheen, his beautiful and tragic girlfriend Four Murasame, his childhood friend Fa Yuiri, the ace pilot Amuro Ray, battleship captain Bright Noah, and many other characters from the First Gundam will also make cameo appearances in Z Gundam.

Z Gundam is an excellent Gundam series, and considered among fans to be the best and most serious. Unlike Gundam Wing or G Gundam (which debuted on Cartoon Network) this one takes place in the same "universe" as the original Gundam (which was also on Cartoon Network for a time). It is 8 years after the war against Zeon, but during this time, the Earth Federation has become corrupt. In fear of other Zeon-like uprisings, they create a police force known as the Titans. However, the Titans are mere bullies, and the law doesn't apply to them (think the Nazi SS during WWII). A rebel faction, the Anti-Earth Union Group(AEUG) are the good guys in this series.

Among the AEUG is ace pilot Quatro Bagina, (who is really a disguised Char Aznable, villain from the original Gundam), and 17-year old Camille Vidan, who is the main character of this series. Camille is a powerful Newtype, and what happens to him and his family in the first few episodes will prove to you how dark this show is. Even Amuro Ray returns and plays a big role in Z Gundam. The best part? ZZ Gundam, which has a whole new set of characters and takes place one day after Z Gundam ends, begins.

Following the original series, the Earth Federation has appointed an elite force of soldiers to make sure there are no more one year wars. However, this new force, known as the Titans-is corrupt, and is suppressing the space colonies. In order to oppose them, the AEUG(Anti-Earth United Group) is formed, with Char Anzable as one of it's leaders(Although he's under an alias). In addition, the original White Base crew-mostly under house arrest due to their possible influence-are also secretly backing the organization. However, the returning characters aren't the focus of the show, it's the new ones. Camille Vidan is the new Gundam pilot, and is definitey more aggressive than the original series's Amuro-it's hard to think of a single episode in which Camille isn't beating someone else up or getting beat up himself. Camille's love interests, although similar to Amuro's from the original, are interesting characters, and aspiring ace Jerid Mesa is thankfully not a copy of Char. A lot of the Titans are pretty despicable villains, as well. The mecha designs are pretty nice, incorporating a lot of wires into their design. The animation is pretty good, considering this was made on a television budget in 1985, and much better than Gundam Wing, which was made over decade later. Overall, perhaps one of the best Gundam series. Hurry up and import this thing!

After completing the epic that was mobile Suit Gundam, i had no hesitation in ordering Zeta on DVD. Having read some reviews online, i was expecting something good, what i got was something more.

OK, lets get the bad stuff out first. The main complaint is that after such brilliant characterisation of MSG 0079, there is hardly any changes in characters through the series, the characters start the series in full view, with the exception of Camille and Fa, who are the few that actually change in the series. Secondly not everyone will like the animation, but anyone whose grown up around the likes of Modern anime, and not used to 80's animation, it may seem a little out of date.

OK the good stuff. The story, unlike MSG 0079, the story clearly divides the opposing sides as to who is the good and bad guys. The story then adds some more twists with the introduction of Axis midway into the series. The action scenes are well done, and look fantastic even for its age. The music goes really well, and makes a change from the JPop that is included in modern Animes. Tomino's stroke of genius however was to include fan favourite Char (aka Quattro Baggina) as one of the lead good guys, although a failure to build of Chars budding Newtype potential from MSG did annoy me.

At the end of the day, when all the smoke has cleared, and all the dust has settled you will love this series, it is a masterclass in how Aime's should be made. You will love it for its blatant idea that it doesn't matter if your a minor or a main character, if you are in the series, your fair game.

Gundam as it should be.

Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985) is nothing short of a masterpiece in the mecha genre and one of the most critically acclaimed entries in the Gundam franchise. Directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, it is a powerful continuation of the original Mobile Suit Gundam, yet it establishes its own identity through a more mature, complex narrative and a deeper focus on character development.

The story is set in the aftermath of the One Year War and follows Kamille Bidan, a young and passionate pilot who gets caught in the conflict between the Earth Federation and the anti-Federation group, the AEUG. Zeta Gundam introduces a more political and morally gray world, where allegiances shift, and the true cost of war becomes painfully clear. Tomino's sharp storytelling and ability to tackle themes of trauma, betrayal, and idealism resonate deeply throughout the series. It's a war story that feels genuinely consequential, with each decision and action weighed with emotional and political gravity.

The characters are another highlight, especially Kamille, who undergoes significant development over the series. Unlike many typical anime protagonists, Kamille's evolution is far from linear, filled with doubt, anger, and loss. His character arc is one of the most compelling and nuanced in all of Gundam. The supporting cast is equally rich, from the strong-willed pilot Fa Yuiry to the enigmatic and morally complex characters like Quattro Bajeena (an alias for Char Aznable), who continues to play a central role in the series. Each character's journey is thoughtfully explored, making the series feel grounded and relatable despite its fantastical setting.

Visually, Zeta Gundam holds up remarkably well. The animation, while not as polished as some modern entries, stands out with its distinct art style and dynamic battle scenes. The mecha designs are iconic, with the titular Zeta Gundam's transforming capabilities showcasing the series' technical creativity. The fluidity and intensity of the combat, both in space and on Earth, are incredibly well executed, making each battle feel impactful.

The soundtrack, composed by the legendary Kenji Kawai, is another standout feature. It complements the series' tone perfectly, with hauntingly beautiful tracks and energetic battle music that heightens the emotional stakes. The music in Zeta Gundam feels timeless, setting the mood for every pivotal moment.

The series' darker tone and mature themes might make it a challenging watch for younger audiences, but for those looking for a Gundam series with true emotional depth and philosophical exploration, Zeta Gundam is unmatched. The exploration of war, idealism versus realism, and the psychological toll on its characters are handled with remarkable subtlety, making it not just a great mecha series, but a profound narrative on the human condition.

Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam stands as a landmark in anime history, offering an unmatched combination of character-driven storytelling, action, and thematic depth. With its outstanding character arcs, impactful battles, and unforgettable music, it earns a perfect 10/10.