For over four decades, Gundam has been one of Japan’s most enduring and influential sci-fi franchises. If you’re new to the series, think of Gundam as a universe where large humanoid machines called Mobile Suits—especially advanced prototypes known as Gundams—shape the course of human conflict. But the real heart of Gundam isn’t the machines; it’s the people who pilot them. Each series explores war, morality, politics, hope, trauma, and what it means to be human in turbulent times. Story will usually be around main characters which usually are one or more Gundam Pilots that have significant role in fighting, and the conflict of opposing forces and superpowers.
Because Gundam spans many timelines, worlds, and tones, you don’t need to watch everything from the beginning. Many entries are standalone stories you can enjoy on their own. Below are five of the most iconic Gundam TV series—perfect for both newcomers and longtime fans—explained without spoiling any major storylines or character fates.
1. Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)
Timeline: Universal Century (UC)
Example of Popular Gundams: RX-78-2 Gundam, Guncannon, Guntank, Char’s Zaku II
The original Mobile Suit Gundam is where it all began. Even though the animation reflects its late-70s origins, the storytelling remains timeless. The series introduces a future where humanity lives in space colonies, and political tension escalates into full-scale war. A young civilian suddenly finds himself piloting a prototype Mobile Suit, the RX-78-2 Gundam, during a surprise attack—a moment that changed anime history.
New viewers often appreciate that the series treats war seriously rather than as a backdrop for action. Characters on both sides are complex, battles have consequences, and the show emphasizes survival and responsibility. It also marks the first appearance of the legendary rivalry between Amuro Ray and Char Aznable, two of the most famous characters in anime history. Even without spoilers, it’s safe to say this series set the foundation for every Gundam story that followed.
2. Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam (1985)
Timeline: Universal Century (UC)
Example of Popular Gundams: Zeta Gundam, Gundam Mk-II, Hyaku Shiki
Zeta Gundam is widely regarded by many long-time fans in that era as one of the best Gundam series ever created. Set several years after the original, it shows how political alliances shift, how old enemies become reluctant allies, and how new factions rise in the power vacuum left by previous conflicts. The show follows a new protagonist who gets pulled into a struggle far larger than anything he expects, and his emotional evolution is one of the strongest aspects of the series.
Zeta’s tone is more serious and mature compared to the original, diving deeper into themes of military oppression, ideology, and the psychological toll of conflict. The Mobile Suits also evolve dramatically—sleeker, faster, and more advanced than those from the first series. The Zeta Gundam itself, with its transforming flight mode, became an icon of the franchise. Without spoiling major events, it’s fair to say Zeta Gundam is one of the most impactful political dramas in the entire Gundam timeline.
3. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995)
Timeline: Alternate Universe (AC)
Example of Popular Gundams: Wing Gundam, Wing Zero, Heavyarms, Deathscythe, Sandrock, Shenlong/Altron
For many international fans, Gundam Wing was their first exposure to the franchise thanks to its massive popularity outside Japan. Unlike the Universal Century shows, Gundam Wing takes place in an alternate universe with its own political setup, focusing on a group of young Gundam pilots sent from space colonies to Earth to disrupt military oppression.
Gundam Wing is known for its stylish designs, charismatic pilots, and fast-paced political drama. Each Gundam has a distinct theme and combat specialty, making battles visually memorable without requiring newcomers to know previous lore. The Wing Gundam and its later form, Wing Zero, are especially iconic for their angelic aesthetics and high mobility.
The series also explores moral conflict, the cost of rebellion, and the challenge of defining peace. Even without revealing major plot turns, it’s safe to say the show blends emotional intensity, dramatic speeches, and large-scale battles in a way that captivated a generation of viewers.
4. Mobile Suit Gundam 00 (2007)
Timeline: Anno Domini (AD) – Near-future real-world setting
Example of Popular Gundams: Exia, Dynames, Kyrios, Virtue, 00 Gundam
Gundam 00 stands out as the first mainline Gundam series set in our real-world calendar, creating a near-future environment of energy crises, private military forces, and global superpower tension. A group called Celestial Being pilots advanced Gundam units to intervene in conflict zones and force humanity to confront its dependence on war.
What makes Gundam 00 remarkable is its philosophical approach. Instead of focusing solely on the horrors of war, it explores how idealism clashes with political realities. The show handles multiple characters with interwoven viewpoints, making it highly engaging even for newcomers.
The Exia and 00 Gundam are fan favorites for their fast melee combat and sleek designs, and the series features some of the most fluid animation in Gundam history. Without giving away key developments, Gundam 00 delivers a modern, polished experience with powerful themes and cinematic action sequences.
5. Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans (2015)
Timeline: Post-Disaster (PD)
Example of Popular Gundams: Barbatos, Gusion, Kimaris
Iron-Blooded Orphans (IBO) takes Gundam storytelling in a bold direction, focusing on a group of child soldiers who fight for autonomy in a harsh, unequal world. The series explores issues such as social stratification, exploitation, loyalty, and the meaning of family created through shared struggle.
What makes IBO especially compelling is its grounded approach to Mobile Suit combat. Instead of beam weapons dominating, battles rely heavily on physical melee weapons and kinetic impact, giving every fight a visceral, weighty feel. The Gundam Barbatos, with its evolving forms and brutal combat style, became one of the most popular designs in modern Gundam.
The tone of IBO is more intense and emotional than many previous series, but it maintains the franchise’s focus on character growth, moral complexity, and the consequences of conflict. Even without discussing major twists, it’s clear that IBO leaves a strong impression on viewers with its raw storytelling and memorable cast.
Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Gundam Series for You
Even we give example of 5 series in this article, There are more than ten series that have their own interesting things. Gundam offers many worlds and tones—political drama, high-speed action, emotional storytelling, or philosophical conflict.
If you want the historical core of the franchise, start with Mobile Suit Gundam or Zeta Gundam.
If you prefer stylish battles and character-driven drama, Gundam Wing is great.
For a modern, polished sci-fi epic, Gundam 00 shines.
If you want a darker, grounded, emotionally charged narrative, Iron-Blooded Orphans delivers a powerful experience.
Again, this is only opinion. If you want to know how it is, you have to watch for yourself and enjoy!
