For those of a generation unfamiliar with the original Gundam, it may be nothing more than a short sound effect, but veteran fans likely leaned forward at that moment, exclaiming “Oh!” Comments from viewers included: “A sound effect I’ve heard more than my parent’s voice,” “The title and that familiar sound, lol,” and “The title call SFX just made me laugh!!” Many had their hearts completely captured.

However, episode 2’s real highlight is its main story. The narrative temporarily rewinds to Universal Century 0079, depicting Char Aznable, the “Red Comet” of the Principality of Zeon (voiced by Yūki Shin), as he steals a Gundam and makes a dazzling appearance. Right at the beginning, the familiar sound effect vividly signals that “Gundam is about to begin.” It’s the perfect opening hook.

“Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX” is the latest entry in the “Mobile Suit Gundam” series that began in 1979. The story centers on Amate Yuzuriha, a high school girl living peacefully in a space colony, whose encounter with the mysterious girl Nyaan (voiced by Yui Ishikawa) draws her into the underground mobile suit dueling sport known as “Clan Battle.”

The joint production by Studio Khara, renowned for works such as the “Rebuild of Evangelion” film series, and Sunrise sparked wide attention. The theatrical preview version, released earlier in January ahead of the TV series, became a massive hit, earning approximately 3.4 billion yen at the box office.

After all 12 episodes finished airing in June of the same year, new merchandise continued to be released, and the original soundtrack is also scheduled for release on August 27. The series remains highly popular. In July, a special event was held as part of North America’s largest anime convention, “Anime Expo 2025,” in Los Angeles, USA.

(C)SOTSU·SUNRISE

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