It’s hard not to notice that the classic anime seriesMobile Suit Gundamis currently experiencing a new wave of global popularity. In addition to thenewMobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuXmovie and TV seriesnow underway, there’s also plenty of hype surrounding a planned live-action film and a sequel toMobile Suit Gundam Hathaway. With interest in the franchise at its highest point in decades, the timing feels perfect to launch another Gundam saga.
The new manga title,Mobile Suit Gundam Eight, is scheduled to begin serialization in the August 2025 issue ofGundam Acemagazine (on sale in Japan in June). Featuring an original story and artwork from veterans behind some of the franchise’s most well-received entries, the series promises a unique post-apocalyptic tale about the few remaining humans and thelast Gundam mobile suit.
Top Talent Joins Gundam Eight
A New Gundam Timeline Begins
The original story forMobile Suit Gundam Eightcomes from Hajime Kamoshida, known for his work onMobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans,and the manga artwork is handled by Shuuei Takagi, illustrator ofMobile Suit Gundam Battle Operation: Code Fairy. The striking design of the lead mobile suit, known as the Gundam Zilius, was created by mecha designer Kanekotsu.
Mobile Suit Gundam Eighttakes place in analternate timeline, separate from the familiar Universal Century known to most fans. Earth, once the cradle of humanity, was meant to enter an age of prosperity through advances in science and biotechnology. Instead, by the year 2030, it teeters on the edge of collapse. Only 258 survivors remain, and with them, a single Gundam. Set during the new “Koreki” era,the story follows the last Gundam’s battle for survivalamid political turmoil and human struggle. At its center is Gundam Zilius, a heavily armored machine built to endure a dying world.
Gundam Zilius Kit Arrives First
A Bold New Chapter for Gundam
While there are currently no concrete plans for aMobile Suit Gundam Eightanime(at least not yet), Bandai is already moving quickly to merchandise the new Gundam Zilius design. A new plastic model kit is set to debut at the upcomingShizuoka Hobby Show in Japanthis May.
With Gundam expanding its reach to new audiences throughrecent projects likeThe Witch from MercuryandGQuuuuuuX,Mobile Suit Gundam Eightseems poised to carry that momentum forward. With its intense, post-apocalyptic premise and the striking visual design of Gundam Zilius at its core, the series looks ready to define the next chapter inGundam’s enduring legacy.
Gundam
The Gundam franchise is a cornerstone of mecha anime, featuring giant robots known as “mobile suits” in various wartime settings. Originating with Mobile Suit Gundam in 1979, it explores complex themes of war, politics, and humanity through the struggles of pilots who navigate these massive machines. The franchise spans multiple timelines and universes, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories and standalone narratives.
