This Week in Gundam: Celebrating Gundam SEED and Gundam 00

This week, we're celebrating the anniversaries of two beloved series that have left an indelible mark on the Gundam franchise—Gundam SEED and Gundam 00. From epic battles in the cosmos to gripping character-driven narratives, Gundam SEED and Gundam 00 have captivated the hearts of fans around the globe.

These two remarkable series have continued to inspire generations of viewers, Gunpla builders, and storytellers. So, join us on this journey as we pay tribute to the epic tales that define Gundam SEED and Gundam 00.

History of Gundam SEED and Gundam 00

00Notable Suits from Gundam SEED

Gundam SEED’s iconic suits became an integral part of the series' appeal and contributed significantly to its enduring popularity.

1. Strike Gundam (GAT-X105):

• The protagonist's mobile suit, piloted by Kira Yamato, the Strike Gundam is a versatile and adaptable unit equipped with the Striker Pack system, allowing it to swap between different packs for various combat scenarios.
• Its primary feature is the Aile Striker Pack, granting high mobility and ranged combat capabilities, while the Sword Striker Pack enhances its close-quarters combat prowess with a massive anti-ship sword.

2. Freedom Gundam (ZGMF-X10A):

• Piloted by Kira Yamato in the latter part of the series, the Freedom Gundam is renowned for its striking design and exceptional combat capabilities.
• Armed with powerful beam weaponry, including dual beam rifles and plasma cannons, it can engage multiple enemies simultaneously. Its "Wings of Light" also makes it one of the fastest and most agile units in the series.

3. Justice Gundam (ZGMF-X09A):

• Piloted by Athrun Zala, the Justice Gundam is another formidable mobile suit known for its distinctive appearance, equipped with powerful beam weaponry, including the Fatum-00 backpack, which functions as a support unit and provides additional firepower.
• It also features energy-based boomerang weapons called "Mare Stelas" and the Beam Sabre "Sheath."

4. Providence Gundam (ZGMF-X13A):

• Rau Le Creuset's Providence Gundam is a menacing mobile suit equipped with a DRAGOON (Disconnected Rapid Armament Group Overlook Operation Network) system, allowing it to control remote weaponry with precision.
• Its arsenal includes DRAGOON-mounted beam cannons, beam sabres, and a lethal DRAGOON shield, making it a formidable adversary.

5. Duel Gundam (GAT-X102):

• Piloted by Yzak Joule, the Duel Gundam is a close combat specialist with exceptional speed and agility.
• It features a beam rifle, dual beam sabres, and a versatile shoulder-mounted weapon system known as the "Assault Shroud."

Notable Suits from Gundam 00

Gundam 00 introduced a stunning array of mobile suits and mechas that captivated audiences with their innovative designs and formidable capabilities.

1. Gundam Exia:

• The protagonist's mobile suit, piloted by Setsuna F. Seiei, the Gundam Exia is a close-quarters combat specialist. Its sleek, slender design, adorned with a distinctive V-fin, makes it both agile and deadly in melee combat.
• Armed with a GN Sword that can switch between sword and rifle modes, the Exia is a formidable opponent on the battlefield. Its Trans-Am system boosts its performance to incredible levels for a limited time.

2. Gundam Kyrios:

• Kyrios, piloted by Allelujah Haptism, is a versatile transformable unit designed for aerial and ground combat.
• Its unique feature is its ability to transform into a mobile armour mode, resembling a sleek fighter jet. This transformation grants it exceptional speed and agility.
• Armed with GN Beam Submachine Guns and GN Hand Missiles, Kyrios is a force to be reckoned with in both air and ground battles.

3. Gundam Virtue/Nadleeh:

• Initially known as Virtue and later Nadleeh, this Gundam piloted by Tieria Erde is a heavy artillery unit concealed within a bulky armour shell.
• Virtue's Trans-Am system allows it to unleash overwhelming firepower, while Nadleeh reveals its true form, a sleek and agile Gundam with GN Beam Sabers.

4. Gundam Throne Zwei:

• Part of the Gundam Thrones trio, Throne Zwei, piloted by Johann Trinity, boasts a unique transformation capability. It can shift between mobile suit and mobile armour modes.
• Armed with a GN Launcher and GN Fangs, it poses a formidable challenge to its adversaries.

5. Gundam 00 Raiser:

• The pinnacle of technology in the series, the Gundam 00 Raiser, piloted by Setsuna, combines the power of the 00 Gundam and the 0 Raiser.
• It features Twin GN Drives, allowing for incredible speed and combat versatility. Its Trans-Am Burst System grants even greater power, making it a game-changer in battles.

Celebrating the Legacy of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED and 00

In the vast universe of Gundam, "Gundam SEED" and "Gundam 00" stand as pivotal milestones that have left an indelible mark on the franchise. These series not only redefined the Gundam narrative but also invigorated the mecha anime genre as a whole. Their enduring popularity and impact are undeniable, inspiring a new generation of fans and showcasing the timeless appeal of Gundam.

As we celebrate the anniversaries of these iconic series, we invite you to delve deeper into Gundam with Hobbyco. Explore our extensive collection of Gunpla and collectables and join us in commemorating the legacy of these groundbreaking series.