Gundam
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Mythsearcher
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[[WP:UNDO|Undid]] revision 226053763 by [[Special:Contributions/131.94.173.54|131.94.173.54]] ([[User talk:131.94.173.54|talk]]) rv linkspam
{{Otheruses4|the anime series|the mecha themselves|Mobile weapons}}
{{Infobox animanga/Header
| name = Gundam
| image = [[Image:Gundam.jpg|230px]]
| caption = RX-78-2 Gundam (Art by Hajime Katoki)
| ja_name = ガンダム
| ja_name_trans = Gandamu
| genre = [[Mecha]], [[Drama]], [[Action film|Action]]
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Footer}}
{{nihongo|'''''Gundam'''''|ガンダム|Gandamu}} is one of the longest running series of [[Japan]]ese [[anime]], featuring giant robots or [[mecha]], created by ''[[Sunrise (company)|Sunrise]]''. The series started in April 1979. Currently (as of 21 January 2008), the ''Gundam'' Franchise is a 50 billion [[Japanese yen|yen]] trademark.<ref>Otona no Gundamu Perfect, 大人のガンダム完全版</ref> ''Gundam'' is the collective term for both the [[Universal Century]] (UC) series, like ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam]]'' and ''[[Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam]]'', and series set in alternative timelines, such as ''[[Mobile Fighter G Gundam]]'', ''[[New Mobile Report Gundam Wing]]'', ''[[After War Gundam X]]'', ''[[Turn A Gundam]]'', ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED]]'', ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny]]'', or ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam 00]]''. In the 2008 Anime average sales figure ranking of copies sold in Japan (1970~2008 total sales figure averaged by episode), Gundam series got 4 positions out of the top 5. While ''Mobile Suit Gundam'' ranking second position, the third, fourth, fifth position is ''Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Destiny'', ''Mobile Suit Gundam Seed'' and ''Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam'' respectively. Also, ''New Mobile Report Gundam Wing'' ranked 18th and ''Mobile Suit ZZ Gundam'' ranked 20th.<ref>TV anime sales history total sales figure ranking averaged by episode, Latest version. ''TVアニメ歷代売上累計平均ランキング最新版TOP25''</ref>
== Overview ==
=== Concept ===
[[Image:MS original design.jpg|right|thumb|The original design of the three primary mobile suits in ''Mobile Suit Gundam'', from left to right: "Gundam", "Guncannon" and "Guntank"]]
''Mobile Suit Gundam'' was developed principally by renowned animator, [[Yoshiyuki Tomino]], along with a changing group of Sunrise creators who went under the collective pseudonym "[[Hajime Yatate]]".
During its conceptual phase, the series was originally titled ''Freedom Fighter Gunboy'' or simply ''Gunboy'', because the title included a [[robot]] armed with a gun and the target demographic was primarily [[shōnen]]. In the early stages of production, there were numerous references to the word "[[Freedom (political)|freedom]]", such as the ''[[White Base]]'' being originally named "Freedom's Fortress", the Core Fighter as the "Freedom Wing", and the Gunperry named the "Freedom Cruiser". The collective Yatate team combined the [[English language|English]] word, "gun", with last syllable of the word "freedom", "dom", to form the word ''Gundom''. Tomino then changed the name to the current title, suggesting that the name ''Gundam'' signifies a powerful unit wielding a gun that is strong enough to hold back enemies, like a hydroelectric [[dam]] holding back floods. {{Fact|date=June 2008}}
Most Gundams appear as large, bipedal vehicles controlled by their human pilots in [[cockpit]]s. Like many of the "[[mobile suits]]" (the name for these vehicles, including the ''Gundam'') appearing in the various series, the machine is usually piloted from the [[torso]] area with a camera built into the head, transmitting the image to viewscreens in the cockpit, allowing the pilot to perceive the outside world. Some exceptions have been known to mount cockpits on other areas of the chassis (ie. the ''[[Psyco Gundam]]'', where the cockpit is located in the unit's head).
While Gundams are non-sentient units, there are some exceptions, depending on the story. In the [[side-story]] ''[[Gundam Sentinel]]'', an [[artificial intelligence]] called ''A.L.I.C.E.'' was specified to have developed its own emotions, wanting to become human at the very end of the story,<ref>Gundam Sentinel</ref> and in ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam Side Story|The Blue Destiny]]'', another side-story, four mobile suits (where one of them is not a Gundam) built with the ''EXAM System'', which shares a [[Newtype]] human soul, allows them to act accordingly on their own.<ref>Mobile Suit Gundam Side Story: The Blue Destiny</ref> These are the only canonical and specified plot-related Gundams that contains self-sentience.
=== Innovation ===
''Mobile Suit Gundam'' is said to have pioneered the [[real robot]] era of [[mecha anime]].<ref name="Oppliger">{{cite web|url=http://animenation.net/news/askjohn.php?id=1658|title=Ask John: Which Gundam Series Have Had the Most Impact on Anime?|first=John|last=Oppliger|authorlink=AnimeNation#John Oppliger|date=[[2007-10-12]]|accessdate=2007-10-26|publisher=[[AnimeNation]]}}</ref> Unlike its [[super robot]] cousins, ''Gundam'' attempts at realism in robot design and weaponry, as well as the thematic and ethical roles of the robots themselves. ''[[Invincible Super Man Zambot 3|Zambot 3]]'' was an earlier program by Tomino, where he began developing the ideas in ''Gundam'', and along with ''[[Super Dimension Fortress Macross]]'', would form the basis of the genre.
The inherent theme of all the various ''Gundam'' series is the harsh depiction of the atrocities of war.{{Fact|date=June 2008}} All the machines, including the ''Gundams'', are always depicted realistically, that is, they run out of energy and ammunition, they break and malfunction like all machines do. The technology, at least that of the Universal Century, is practical and is either derived from true science, including [[Lagrange points]] in space, the [[O'Neill cylinder]] as a living environment, or at least well-explained technology that is potentially feasible, and/or requiring only a few fictional elements inserted into real science to function ([[Minovsky Physics]], as a means of energy production from helium-3).
The necessity of developing humanoid robots is also scientifically explained, albeit fictional. The fictional Minovsky particle is pervasive in Universal Century, and these particles prevent the use of radar. Long distance cruise missiles, anti aircraft guns and missiles, cannot function automatically due to lack of radar control. As a result, all weapons control systems have to rely on human eyes. Warplanes, which largely relies on auto-guide missiles are useless. On top of that, early warning system is non-functional. In Universal Century, humans have colonized space. The Principality of [[Zeon]], which rebels against Earth Federation, needed a weapons system that could function outside of the colony in zero gravity, as well as in gravity. The weapons system should be able to open and close air locks, plant demolition charges, engage with enemy tanks and planes. In such a world, what could be most dynamic and thus could inflict most damage is a robotic giant, in the form of mobile suits. Once mobile suits have been developed by one side, the opposing force had to develop a similar system, just as British invention of tanks lead to the development of tanks in Germany, and eventually lead to tank-to-tank battles.
The result of such development was [[Zaku II]]. With an army of Zaku IIs, the independent colonists from [[Principality of Zeon]], were successful in taking many space colonies that sided with Earth, until Gundam was developed by Earth Federation. The animated series starts in a neutral colony, where the earth federation ship had just docked. Colonists in recon finds Earth Federation ship and attacks. [[Amuro Ray]] and his neighbor [[Fraw Bow]] are swept into battle. Amuro had found and read technical manuals of his father, who was the brain behind Gundam's development. Amuro recognizes Gundam in transportation, and jumps into the cockpit. In other series, Mobile Suit cockpits are equipped with airbags to protect pilots from sudden impacts. Most cockpits are in the shape of a ball that can be ejected from the damaged mobile suit and serve as a life boat/capsule in space.
''Gundam's'' realistic scientific setting has gained its reputation in the field, as well. On [[July 18]], [[2007]], as [[MIT|MIT's]] Astronautics Department's Professor Dava Newman displays her [[Biosuit]], the normal suit as seen in the ''Gundam'' series was referenced as ''Mobile Suit Gundam's Normal Suit is now real'' by various news.<ref>[http://www.technobahn.com/cgi-bin/news/read2?f=200707181543 tehnobahn], 機動戦士ガンダムのノーマルスーツが現実に</ref><ref>Ming Pao, [[19 July]], [[2007]]</ref> On [[February 14]], [[2008]], as [[NASA]] proposed its beginning of the [[nuclear thermal rocket]] engine research, ''Technobahn'', a scientific journal in Japan relates it to the ''Gundam'' universe, having wide usage of nuclear thermal rocket engines on its mobile suits.<ref>[http://www.technobahn.com/cgi-bin/news/read2?f=200802141635 technobahn] ガンダムにも搭載予定? NASAが研究開発中の熱核ロケットエンジン</ref>
=== Narrative ===
The narrative itself revolves around mobile suits and pilots fighting in a war, destruction and dehumanization inherent in war. The series tends to explore all sides of a conflict; each faction has their own [[hero]]es and [[villain]]s, all of which have their own unique motives, failings, and virtues. Political battles are as likely to determine the outcome of a war, as it often is. ''Gundam'' also features debate on various important philosophical issues and political ideals, both historical ones, and some of those likely to crop up in the future. Of particular note are the frequent explorations of the nature and meaning of war, the ideal of pacifism, and the continuing evolution - natural or engineered - of humanity and its consequences. These are often framed in the series as a debate between the protagonist and antagonist over the course of a duel, as they try to convince each other of the righteousness of their causes.
Finally, most of the stories are basically structured as ''coming-of-age'' dramas, where the main protagonist (and sometimes the main antagonist) and most of the cast personalities, points of view, and actions may (or may not) change dramatically, as the events on the series unfold. This makes the plot seem more realistic. In early super robot animated series, the hero and cast usually act in the same predictable manner in most episodes, occasionally seeming to have no connection between episodes. In the various ''Gundam'' series, the characters' personalities and actions are transformed/developed by the turn of events surrounding them; some achieve their goals, others are hardened by war, and some even switch allegiances (whether for their own agendas, or following their conscience, after a change of philosophy). The best example of this is how the personalities of longtime rivals, [[Amuro Ray]] and [[Char Aznable]], are influenced by their experiences in the ''Gundam'' saga.
As it is a coming-of-age drama in robot genre, the story line has a minute fractures and fragmentations in narratives, in pace and story lines. This may be a reflection of unstable teenage sentiments, or that the creator of the series may have wanted to achieve too much. At times the story revolves around fast paced war and up-rooted lives. At times it is about Amuro and his cold father. At one point Amuro runs away, unrelated to his father. Deep philosophical and psychological discussions are made between enemies. Amuro was infatuated with an officer, [[Matilda Ajan]], and find connection with an engineered psychic [[Lalah Sune]] from whom he learns about [[Newtype]]. Amuro finds likeness in rival Char, but also despises him. Char has his own motives, and his sister [[Sayla Mass]] is a shipmate of Amuro. The narrative stays with Amuro most of the times, but at times, it revolves around various side characters as well, which may widen the story, but also detracts viewers with too many topics.
=== Distinctive characteristics ===
:''See also:'' Gundam Type /{{lang|ja|[[w:ja:ガンダムタイプ|ガンダムタイプ]]}}
''Gundam'' is the name or nickname of several mobile suits or [[mobile fighter]]s, although some works, such as ''[[G-Saviour]]'' and ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO|Mobile Suit Gundam: MS IGLOO]]'' do not have units containing the term ''Gundam'' (Although in the Third episode of MS IGLOO, the RX-78-2 Gundam was seen briefly in grainy footage destroying a Zaku).
In the ''Universal Century'' timeline, ''Gundam'' is the name of the [[Earth Federation|Earth Federation's]] (''Chikyū Renpō'', 地球連邦) first experimental general-purpose mobile suit, which is incredibly powerful, compared to most of the mass-produced models eventually used by either side. Afterwards, many powerful mobile suits based on the Gundam's design also carry the name, such as the ''[[RX-178 Gundam Mk-II|RX-178 Gundam MK II]]'', ''[[MSZ-006 Zeta Gundam]]'', ''LM312V04 Victory Gundam'', etc.
All mobile weapons have serial numbers, usually additions to previous mobile weapons in its lineage. For example, the Earth Federation in the Universal Century timeline uses "R" (from ''Chikyū Renpō'') to designate their mobile suits, with "X" for experimental units, "GM" (Gundam Mass-Produced\General Machine) or "GC" (Guncannon, another ''V-Project'' mobile suit) for production mobile suits derived from the original ''V-Project'' suits and "MS" for mass-produced mobile suits derived from the ''[[One Year War|One Year War-era]]'' ''[[Universal Century Nations and Factions|Principality of Zeon]]'' mobile suits.
In the ''[[Future Century]]'' timeline, the word ''Gundam'' refers to a space colony's entry in the ''Gundam Fight'', a competition that determines which colony would rule the Earth for the next 4 years. The pilots who use these Gundams are known as "Gundam Fighters". However, some suits that are called Gundams are not entries in the Gundam Fight at all, with the most operative examples being the ''[[JDG-009X Devil Gundam|JDG-009X (JDG-00X) Devil Gundam]]'' and the ''[[JMF-1336R Rising Gundam|JMF-1336R (JMF1336R) Rising Gundam]]''.
In the ''[[After Colony]]'' timeline, the word ''Gundam'' refers to most mobile suits constructed out of a special alloy called ''[[List of After Colony technology#Gundanium Alloy|Gundanium]]'', which can only be mined and produced in space. This alloy gives the Gundams high resistance to conventional weaponry and renders them stealth under [[radar]], due to its nature of absorbing [[electromagnetic waves]]. Every Gundam has a unique name that befits the nature of the suit and/or its origins, such as the ''[[XXXG-01W Wing Gundam]]'', ''[[XXXG-01D Gundam Deathscythe]]'' and the ''[[XXXG-01S Shenlong Gundam]]''.
The ''[[After War]]'' timeline is a loose continuation of the Universal Century continuity, presenting an [[alternate history|alternate scenario]], with many of the mecha designs loosely based on Universal Century suits.
In the ''[[Seireki|Correct Century]]'' timeline, the name ''Gundam'' is given to the ''[[SYSTEM ∀-99 (WD-M01) ∀ Gundam|SYSTEM ∀-99 (WD-M01) ∀ Gundam "Turn A"]]/White Doll'' mobile suit by a specific character, who was originally ace pilot, but placed under [[suspended animation]]. The color scheme of the Turn A reminds the character of the Gundam mobile suits from previous eras.
In the ''[[Cosmic Era]]'' works, ''Gundams'' are mobile suits that carry a specific type of [[operating system]], first secretly produced (without the programmer himself knowing what he is programming the system for) by the one of the protagonist's robotics research group, and faced a few upgrades by various factions throughout the story. The acronym of the operating system always spells "GUNDAM", thus, these suits are called ''Gundam''. However, this is [[retcon]]ned by later toys and scale models tagging the ''Gundam'', after the unit's own name.
In the ''[[Anno Domini]]'' timeline of ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam 00]]'', the term ''Gundam'' is the generic designation of a line of unique and highly effective [[List of Mobile Suit Gundam 00 mobile units|mobile units]] developed by [[List of Mobile Suit Gundam 00 factions#Celestial Being|Celestial Being]], such as the [[GN-001 Gundam Exia]] and [[GN-002 Gundam Dynames]]. Distinct from concurrently introduced weapons, suit torsos contain a core [[Electrical generator|generator]] system known as the [[List of Mobile Suit Gundam 00 technology#GN Drive|GN Drive]] or Solar Furnace, capable of sustaining independent unit function for an indefinite period of time without needing to refuel. In addition, onboard [[Spacecraft propulsion|propulsion]] recycles the generator's [[List of Mobile Suit Gundam 00 technology#GN Particles|GN particle]] [[Exhaust gas|exhaust]] for high-speed, virtually unlimited output. The particle exhaust [[Electronic countermeasures|disrupts]] the use of [[Radar jamming and deception|conventional radar]] and a range of [[Wireless network|wireless communications]].
The different series have had different ways of maintaining the tradition, and the only unique feature that all Gundams have in common is the name.
[[Image:Gundam characteristics.jpg|right|thumb|250px| The first Gundam: "'''[[RX-78 Gundam|RX-78-2 "Gundam"]]'''"]]
The ''[[Huckebein]]'' series of mecha from the ''[[Super Robot Wars]]'' series also share many Gundam-like characteristics; not surprising, since its mechanical designer is ''[[Hajime Katoki]]'', who has done many redesigns of previous Gundam models.
== Calendar system ==
The majority of ''Gundam'' works, including the earliest ones, occurs in the ''[[Universal Century]]'' (''UC'', for short) calendar. Later series are set in alternate calendars or [[alternate future|timelines]] that are mostly unrelated to the UC system. There is a basic [[premise (film)|premise]] or [[back-story]] common to all the ''Gundam'' series: in each timeline, [[Earth in fiction|Earth]] has at some point established [[space colonies]] within the [[Solar System in fiction|Solar System]], but eventually engages in an armed conflict against them. On a side note, at least three calendar systems are initially numbered after the year that the series premiered. For example, ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam]]'' takes place in UC 0079 (it premiered in [[1979]]) , ''[[New Mobile Report Gundam Wing]]'' in After Colony 195 (a [[1995]] premiere) and [[Mobile Suit Gundam 00]] takes place in [[2307]] (with a [[2007]] premiere). In addition, the initials for the Cosmic Era calendar, ''C.E.'', is the same for as the initials for ''[[Common Era]]'', a designation of the [[Gregorian calendar]].
* ''[[Mobile Fighter G Gundam]]'' takes place in the ''[[Future Century]]'' (''FC''). In this timeline, the space colonies have gained the upper hand over Earth, consequently attempting to put an end to the internal power struggles now plaguing the planet.
* ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam Wing]]'' takes place in the ''[[After Colony]]'' (''AC'') calendar system, referring to the years after the foundation of the first space colony. Unlike the UC and FC, Earth firmly maintains repressive control over its colonies.
*''[[After War Gundam X]]'' takes place in the ''[[After War]]'' (''AW'') timeline, referring to the years after the conclusion of the ''[[After War|7th Space War]]'', where the Earth was devastated by massive colony drops. As a result, the story features distinct [[post-apocalyptic]] undertones, in addition to the common [[interstellar war|space war]] themes.
*''[[Turn A Gundam|∀ Gundam]]'' takes place in the {{nihongo|''CC''|正歴|Seireki}} calendar system, where director Yoshiyuki Tomino intended as the distant future of all previous timelines. The CC sees the colonies becoming much stronger than the Earth, but unlike the FC timeline, takes a more aggressive stance towards it. The English acronym of CC is ''Correct Century'' (コレクトセンチュリー), in the official Japanese ∀ guide book.
*''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED]]'', its sequels, and spinoffs take place in the ''[[Cosmic Era]]'', with ''C.E.'' referring to the years after the foundation of the first space colonies. This timeline mostly mirrors the UC's balance of power between Earth and the colonies.
*The latest entry in the franchise, ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam 00]]'', is the first series to incur the {{nihongo|''[[Anno Domini]]''|西暦|Seireki}} timeline.
Bandai and Japanese-speaking fans unofficially refer to projects not directly related to the first ''Gundam'' series or its staffers (such as ''[[Gundam Sentinel]]'' and ''Mobile Fighter G Gundam'') as "Another Gundam" stories, and to projects made after [[1989]] as "[[Heisei]] Gundam" stories. On a survey for a [[video game]] that would become ''[[Gundam: True Odyssey]]'', the Cosmic Era series (including ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Astray]]'') were collectively referred to as "21st Century First Gundam" (a reference to the original ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam]]'' series). English-speaking fans have used the term "Alternate Universe" ("AU" for short) as a nickname for the stories that do not take place within the Universal Century timeline, but this is made unofficial for use in Japan.
== ''Gundam'' franchise ==
=== Animated/live-action series and movies ===
In order of release:
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam]] (Also known as the ''First Gundam'', it is the nickname used by Japanese fans, once sequels appeared. ''Gundam 0079'' has also been established for use, as a nickname derived from its spinoff [[manga]] and games used by the international community.)
**TV: 1979 - 1980
**Compilation movies: 1981 - 1982
*[[Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam]]
**TV: 1985 - 1986
**Compilation movies: 2004 - 2006
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ]]
**TV: 1986 - 1987
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack]]
**Movie: 1988
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket]]
**[[Original Video Animation|OVAs]]: 1989
*[[Super Deformed Gundam]]
**Movie: 1988 - 1989, 1991, 1993
**OVAs: 1988, 1990
**TV: 1993
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam F91]]
**Movie: 1991
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam 0083: Stardust Memory]]
**OVAs: 1991
**Compilation movie: 1992
*[[Mobile Suit Victory Gundam]]
**TV: 1993
*[[Mobile Fighter G Gundam]]
**TV: 1994
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam Wing]]
**TV: 1995
**Compilation OVAs: 1996
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team]]
**OVAs: 1996
**Compilation movie: 1998
*[[After War Gundam X]]
**TV: 1996
*[[Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz|New Mobile Report Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz]]
**OVAs: 1997
**Compilation movie: 1998
*[[Turn A Gundam]]
**TV: 1999 - 2000
**Compilation movies: 2002
*[[Gundam the Ride: A Baoa Qu]]
**Amusement park attraction movie: 2000
*[[G-Saviour]]
**[[Live action]] TV movie: 2000
*Gundam Neo Experience 0087: Green Divers
**Specialty format movie: 2001
*[[Gundam Evolve]]
**Short films: 2001 - 2005
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED]]
**TV: 2002 - 2003
**Compilation specials: 2004
*[[Superior Defender Gundam Force]]
**TV: 2003 - 2004
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO]]
**Movies: 2004
**OVAs: 2006
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny]]
**TV: 2004 - 2005
**Compilation specials: 2006 - 2007
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED C.E. 73: Stargazer]]
**[[Original Net Animation|ONAs]]: 2006
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam 00]]
**TV: 2007 - 2008
*[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: The Movie]] (?)
=== Original Design Series/variations ===
Due to the sheer popularity of the Gundam franchise, especially the mobile suit design, several ''Original Design Series'' were published. These series are drawings and precise specifications for additional mobile suit units not found in the original animated material:
*'''Gundam Century''' (1981)
Gundam Century was a book published in [[22 September]], [[1981]]. At first it is an unofficial anime guide of ''Mobile Suit Gundam'', published by Minori books(みのり書房) as an extra appendix of the monthly magazine ''月刊OUT''. The book served as the basics of all the technology and realistic demonstration of Gundam, in which at publish, it is a collection of fan material along with interviews and off-time works from the original Gundam creators like Yoshiyuki Tomino, Kunio Okawara and [[Yoshikazu Yasuhiko]]. Also collected various real world space exploration science and referenced scientific journals like [[L5 news]], [[Science (magazine)|Science]], [[Physics Today]]. The settings in the book has since then been adopted and endorsed by the official company [[Sunrise]] and [[Bandai]]. Although most of the numbers and history has since then been changed a few times, (for example, the [[One Year War]] started in November 0079 instead of the current official timeline January 0079). <ref>Gundam Century Renewal Version</ref><ref>Gundam Officials, references</ref> the book is regarded as the pioneer of the realism of the Gundam franchise, and is acknowledged in ''Gundam Officials'' and is republished by as an official publication in the year 2000, named as ''Gundam Century Renewal Version''.
*[[Mobile Suit Variations]] (1983)
**Also known as ''MSV'', these variations exist from the One Year War, and considered to be official and canonical in the Universal Century timeline.
*[[MS-X|Mobile Suit X]] (1984)
**Also known as ''MSX'', these are new models for a proposed, but never produced new animation series, and considered to be official and canonical in the Universal Century timeline.
*Z-MSV
**Variations from the Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam series.
*ZZ-MSV
**Variations from the Mobile Suit Double Zeta Gundam series.
*CCA-MSV
**Variations from the Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack movie.
*Kunio Okawara's MS Collection (M-MSV)
**[[Kunio Okawara|Kunio Okawara's]] personal reinterpretations of his original designs.
*F91-MSV
**Variations from the Mobile Suit Gundam F91 movie.
*V-MSV
**Variations from the Mobile Suit Victory Gundam series.
*SEED-MSV
**Variations from the Mobile Suit Gundam SEED series.
*SEED Destiny MSV
**Variations from the Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny series.
*GUNDAM 00V
**Variations from the Mobile Suit Gundam 00 series.
=== Manga and novels ===
{{main|List of Gundam manga and novels}}
The manga narration of the original series is published in [[English language|English]] in [[North America]] by a variety of companies, such as ''[[Viz Media]]'', ''[[Del Rey Manga]]'', and ''[[TOKYOPOP]]'', among others. Gundam-related manga is also published in English in [[Singapore]], by [[Chuang Yi]].
=== Video games ===
{{main|List of Gundam video games}}
Following the popularity of ''Gundam'', various video games feature original characters previously not found in other media. Some video games have been converted into comics or novels.
{| border="1" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0" style="margin: 1em 1em 1em 0; background: #f9f9f9; border: 1px #aaa solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 95%;"
|-
| Games
| Book Title
| Book Type
| Description
|-
| [[Mobile Suit Gundam Side Story]]
| Gundam Blue Destiny
| Comic
|-
| Gundam Side Story: Rise from the Ashes
| [http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/4044232016 機動戦士ガンダム外伝―コロニーの落ちた地で…〈上〉角川スニーカー文庫]<br />[http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/4044232016 機動戦士ガンダム外伝―コロニーの落ちた地で…〈下〉角川スニーカー文庫]
| Novel
|-
| Mobile Suit Gundam Lost War Chronicles
| [http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/4044232059 機動戦士ガンダム戦記―Lost War Chronicles〈1〉角川スニーカー文庫]<br />[http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/4044232067 機動戦士ガンダム戦記―Lost War Chronicles〈2〉角川スニーカー文庫]
| Novel
|-
| Mobile Suit Gundam: Zeonic Front
| [http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/4044232032 ZEONIC FRONT―機動戦士ガンダム0079〈1〉角川スニーカー文庫]<br />[http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/4044232040 ZEONIC FRONT―機動戦士ガンダム0079〈2〉角川スニーカー文庫]
| Novel
|-
| Dynasty Warriors:Gundam
|
|
|Play in official or original mode as kamille, amuro, judau, heero and more. Upgrade with new parts and increase your level as you capture enemy fields. Choose your side the Titans, E.F.S.F, A.E.U.G and more.
|}
An ''[[Unreal]]'' [[mod]] called ''[http://www.mechag.com Mech Assault Genesis]'' exists, based on the Gundam franchise.
A mod for ''[[StarCraft]]'', originally named ''GundamCraft'', but later changed, due to ''[[Blizzard Entertainment|Blizzard Entertainment's]]'' request of name change to ''Gundam Century'', featured all buildings, units, images and sounds to that of the Universal Century timeline. The developer, ''Stuart Ng'' of ''Genesoul.net'', has stopped the project.
==== ''Super Robot Wars'' ====
The ''Gundam'' metaverse makes regular appearances in the ''[[Super Robot Wars]]'' series by ''[[Banpresto]]''. In fact, there hasn't been a single [[Banpresto Originals|non-Banpresto Original]] title which hasn't featured at least one ''Gundam'' series and characters. Some series come and go, but ''[[Amuro Ray]]'', often in his ''[[Nu Gundam|RX-93 "ν Gundam"]]'', is a regular character and has actually never missed a single game. This all changed in ''[[Super Robot Wars Judgement]]'' for the ''[[Nintendo Game Boy Advance]]'' and ''[[Super Robot Wars W]]'' for the ''[[Nintendo DS]]''. So far, almost every single major ''Gundam'' series has made at least one appearance in the series.
The mobile suit units are considered the representing unit in the "real robot" type of mecha. The games' units are often separated by being "super robots", powerful mecha that often have near-limitless powers and technology, but have a shorter range of movement, and real robots, mecha that are physically weaker, but possess a wider range of movement and accuracy. There have been so many mobile suit units that it is impossible to tell a distinct style, however, mobile suits are extremely agile and have an enormous variety of weapons.
=== Series based On ''Gundam'' models ===
Although not directly related to ''Gundam'', these series incorporate Gundam models as part of the stories. It is also noted that Genshiken and Sgt. Frog was created by a subdivision of [[Bandai]], ''[[Media Factory]]'' and Sunrise, respectively:
*[http://members.tripod.com/plamo/pm.html Plamo-kyo Shiro]
*[http://books.yahoo.co.jp/bin/detail?id=07868496 Plamo-Wars]
*[[Sgt. Frog]]
*[[Genshiken]]
=== Merchandise ===
Bandai, the primary licensee of the ''Gundam'' trademark, makes a variety of products for the Gundam fan. Other companies produce unofficial toys, models, t-shirts, etc. Categories of products include the ''Mobile Suit In Action'' (''MSiA'') action figures, and [[Gundam Model|Gundam Model Kits]] in several scales and design complexity. Generally, each series listed above will have its own set of products, although the MSiA and models lines, such as [[Master Grade]] and [[High Grade Universal Century]], may extend across series. The most popular line of action figure in recent year; however is the "''Gundam Fix''" series. This line of figures include the mecha shown in the animated series/manga/novels, but also included new accessories to create a more updated version.
===Internet===
Bandai maintains a number of sites to promote various Gundam projects. Most prominent amongst these is ''Gundam Perfect Web'', the official Japanese site. Its English language counterpart is the US maintained ''Gundam Official''. For a brief trial period in 2005, the site hosted the ''Gundam Official User Forum''. These forums were based on the existing fan forum, ''Gundam Watch'', and made use of many of its staff. When the project was retired, Gundam Watch was reborn, before passing the torch onto ''Gundam Evolution'', which maintains many of the same traditions and staff.
A number of series specific websites have been produced. These are often available for a limited time, usually to promote a [[DVD]] release. Common content includes character and mecha listings, lists of related merchandise and pay-for-download content. "Special" pages are also frequent, often presenting downloadable wallpaper or a small game. The ''[[Superior Defender Gundam Force]]'' site, for example, offers a game where players take the role of the villain, attempting to blast its minions with its weapons. After completion, users are rewarded with a [[papercraft]] of the Ark fans featured frequently in the show's second half.
== As a cultural icon ==
Gundam is a popular cultural icon of Japan, it is a 50 billion yen business of Bandai Namco (projected 50 billion yen income of the company and reached a highest number of 54.5 billion yen in 2006).<ref>Nekkei BP mook, Otona no Gundamu Perfect (Gundam for Adult's Perfect), Business & History+Character+Mechanic, Nekkei Entertainment, ISBN978-4-8222-6317-1</ref> Not only were stamps published, the Agriculture Ministry was reprimanded for contribution to Japanese Wikipedia Gundam related pages, the Japanese Self Defense Forces code-named its developing advance personal combat system as Gundam and the Fire department used Gundam to promote the future of fire fighting developments. A tram station stood a monument of the original Gundam and used the main theme of the first Gundam anime as its departure melody and other businesses like Mitsubishi not only created a test-type simulator for concept cars with a version of Gundam cockpit, it also held recruitment seminars using ''How to make a Gundam'' as a demo of what their development process is and based their Lancer Evolution design on Gundam. Isuzu also used a Gundam to model the VX2.
=== Japanese agriculture ministry ===
On [[October 5]], [[2007]], an employee in Japan's agriculture ministry was reprimanded for allegedly contributing 260 times to the [[Japanese Wikipedia]] article about ''Gundam''. Ministry official Tsutomu Shimomura noted, “The agriculture ministry is not in charge of Gundam.”<ref>[http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/asia-pacific/7029685.stm BBC NEWS | World | Asia-Pacific | Japanese workers in Wikipedia row<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
=== Fire fighting poster ===
[[Image:Gundam firefighting.jpg|right|200px|[http://www.bousaihaku.com/wopen/gundam/images/gun_b.jpg original location]]]
The RX-78-2 Gundam and 2 Medea transport planes were featured in a fire fighting poster in Japan. The RX-78-2 was equipped with water spraying equipment instead of weapons.
=== Japanese stamps ===
The RX-78 Gundam was recognized as a culturally significant subject by the nation of Japan on [[October 23]], [[2000]], with the inclusion of the suit and of the main pilot on two stamps in the 20th Century Stamp Series. <ref>{{cite web | url = http://yushu.or.jp/english/e_sdate/00jpn/00comm/00oct23c1.html | title = The 20th Century Stamp Series 15 | accessdate = 2007-01-10}}</ref>
Additionally, this mobile suit and other notable mecha from various Gundam series were recognized in the second set of "Anime Heroes and Heroines" stamps, released in 2005. It was one of only four franchises to be given the honor; the others were [[Pokémon]], [[Galaxy Express 999]], and [[Detective Conan]]. <ref>{{cite web | url=http://yushu.or.jp/english/e_sdate/05jpn/05kine/050801c1.html | title = Anime Hero and Heroine Series II - Gundam | accessdate = 2007-01-13}}</ref>
=== Japan Self-Defense Forces ===
The code name for the under-development ''[[Japan Self-Defense Forces|Japan Self-Defense Forces']]'' advanced personal combat equipment is "Gundam".<ref>[http://headlines.yahoo.co.jp/hl?a=20071030-00000010-giz-ent yahoo news]</ref><ref>[http://headlines.yahoo.co.jp/hl?a=20071030-00000010-giz-ent.view-000 yahoo news picture]</ref><ref>[http://www.mod.go.jp/trdi/infomation/happyou/Program.pdf original pdf file from Technical Research And Development Institute Ministry of Defense], ''ガンダムの実現に向けて(先進個人装備システム)'', ''Aiming to archieve (in building a) Gundam(Advanced personal equipment system)''.</ref><ref>[http://japan.cnet.com/news/tech/story/0,2000056025,20360485,00.htm The actual Gundam developing by the Defence Forces is] (防衛省が開発する「ガンダム」の正体とは)</ref> On the display exhibition on [[7 November]] [[2007]], the equipment of the set contains infra-red camera and [[Telescopic sight|scope]] that can verify the incoming target is friend or foe, along with a monitor display that can browse the internet. The equipement has a total weight of 9 [[kg]] and the powered suit can run for 8 hours. The testing team consisting of troopers claims that the major improvement should be focused on increasing the battery life of the system. The researchers are also aiming for [[List of Universal Century technology#Funnels|funnel type]] systems including missiles that can stay/hover in air and mini scouting robots.<ref>[http://mainichi.jp/enta/mantan/graph/anime/20071107/ 防衛省:“ガンダム”新装備を公開 暗視カメラに生体認証、ファンネル?も (まんたんウェブ) - 毎日jp(毎日新聞)<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
=== Tram station monument ===
On [[23 March]] [[2008]], a RX-78 Gundam monument in the south exit of the Kamiigusa Station (上井草駅), and an original Gundam head mark will be on display on the Seibu Shinjuku Line train until [[4 April]] [[2008]]. The music of the train departing is also changed to the melody of the opening theme of ''Mobile Suit Gundam''. The event also featured free Gundam eco-bags. The monument pose is directed by Tomino, the original creator of Gundam, and featured a pose of Gundam pointing its hand towards the sky symbolizing paragenesis and hoping for the future. According to the director, it corresponds to the title of the first episode of Gundam, ''ガンダム大地に立つ!!'', and carries a meaning of ''from Earth''.<ref>[http://mainichi.jp/enta/mantan/graph/anime/20080323/ 機動戦士ガンダム:上井草駅に記念オブジェ 富野監督も祝福(まんたんウェブ) - 毎日jp(毎日新聞)<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
=== Isuzu VX2 ===
[[Image:VX2.jpg|right|thumb|Concept art showing inspiration from Gundam Mk-II]]
The concept of Isuzu VX 2 [http://www.isuzu.co.jp/museum/conhis/vx2.html official link] is inspired by RX-178 Gundam Mk-II as concept design arts released in the Jan/Feb 1998, as seen in issue no. 71 of the magazine ''Axis'' published in Japan.
=== Mitsubishi ===
==== Test-type simulator ====
''[[Mitsubishi]]'' has cooperated with Bandai to create a simulator for concept cars, which will show up in various places including car shows and factory sites for visitors to test run different cars. The simulator features an up to 0.5G simulated acceleration, a 100 inch screen with 24 bit digital sound and accommodation for 4 people in a 2 line formation that the front seaters will control the simulated vehicle. Although the commercial release will be a car simulator, the test-type of this simulator will be decorated like the Gundam cockpit and become a simulation theatre in the Toyota theme park, ''Mega Web'', located in [[Tokyo]].<ref>http://www.mhi.co.jp/news/sec1/020220nl.html</ref>
==== Seminars ====
As part of ''MHI Jobcon 2005'' ([[Mitsubishi Heavy Industries]] Job Convention 2005), a recruiting event of Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd, seminars were held in six Japanese cities. The topic of these seminars was '''"Mobile Suit Gundam Development Story"'''; which indicated the requirements and processes that Mitsubishi would have to implement if the company had been required to build an RX-78 mobile suit. <ref>{{cite web | url = http://www.mhi.co.jp/news/sec1/200502044313.html | title = MHI Jobcon 2005 | date = [[4 February]] [[2005]] | language = Japanese | accessdate = 2007-01-11}}(Website prevented deep linking, see [http://www.mhi.co.jp/news/2004.html Year of 2004 and link to 4 Feb 2005])</ref>
==== Lancer Evolution ====
According to Gundam-san [[4 koma]] comic, the [[Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution]] appearance is influenced by the RX-78-2 Gundam.<ref>Mobile Suit Gundam-san(Kidou Senshi Gundamu san), P.123</ref>
=== Lucky Star ===
Gundam became a plot discussion in the [[Lucky Star (manga)|Lucky Star TV anime]] episode 19 for about 1 and a half minute, [[Mobile Suit V Gundam|V]], [[Mobile Suit Gundam Wing|W]], [[After War Gundam X|X]] are mentioned and shows like ''Gundam serial killing event'' or ''Detective Gundam'' are proposed to see if fans will watch them. [[Amuro Ray]], [[Bright Noa]] and [[Haman Karn]] are mentioned to be compared to the age of the main character, all look much older than the 18 year old Izumi Konada of the show, the plot continued to have a parody of [[M'Quve]]'s pot.
=== Ink and wash painting ===
In [[2008]], the [[Ink and wash painting]] of Gundam drawn by Hisashi in [[2005]] was sold in the [[Christie's]] auction held in Hong Kong with a price of US$600,000.<ref>http://game.people.com.cn/BIG5/48602/48968/7304425.html</ref><ref>http://www.gamebase.com.tw/news/gb_news.html?sno=82974936</ref>
== See also ==
{{wikiquote}}
* [[Bandai Museum]]
== Bibliography ==
<div class="references-small">
*{{cite episode |credits = Yoshiyuki Tomino |title = [[Mobile Suit Gundam]] |began = 1979-04-07 |ended = 1980-01-26 |station = Nagoya Broadcasting Network |city = |network = Sunrise}}
*{{cite episode |credits = Yoshiyuki Tomino |title = [[Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam]] |began = 1985-03-02 |ended = 1986-02-22 |station = Nagoya Broadcasting Network |city = |network = Sunrise}}
*{{cite episode |credits = Yoshiyuki Tomino |title = [[Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ]] |began = 1986-03-01 |ended = 1987-01-31 |station = Nagoya Broadcasting Network |city = |network = Sunrise}}
</div>
== References ==
{{reflist}}
== External links ==
*[http://www.gundam.info/ Official ''Gundam'' website] {{jp icon}}
*[http://www.gundamofficial.com/ GundamOfficial] Official website for ''Gundam'' in North America
*[http://www.g-world.com.tw/ Official ''Gundam'' website in Taiwan] {{zh icon}}
*{{dmoz|Arts/Animation/Anime/Titles/G/Gundam/|''{{pagename}}''}}
*{{anime-links|ann=4189}}
*[http://www.mahq.net/animation/gundam/gundam.htm ''Gundam''] at the Mecha Anime Headquarters website
*[http://www.gearsonline.net/gundam/ Gundam at Gears Online]
*[http://gundam.wikia.com/wiki/Main_Page ''Gundam''] at [[Wikia]]
*[http://www.zeonic-republic.net/gundam/index.php?title=Main_Page Gundamology-A ''Mobile Suit Gundam'' Wiki]
*[http://alt-world.com/alt-world/gundambattlesystem/MS_reference/index.html Gundam Reference Data]
{{Gundam}}
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