Mobile Gundam Suit ZZ

Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ, also commonly referred to simply as Gundam ZZ, is a Japanese animated series that first aired from 1986 to 1987. Continuing the groundbreaking legacy of the Gundam franchise, this series serves as a direct sequel to Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam. Set in the Universal Century timeline, Gundam ZZ introduces us to a new vibrant cast of characters, an intricate plotline, and exhilarating mobile suit battles that are the trademark of the franchise.

The series retains the gritty, war-focused tone of its predecessors, but it diverges a bit by introducing more humor and lighthearted elements. This offers viewers an interesting break from the continuous heavy drama of the series before, at least in the initial episodes. A distinctly fresh departure, the series often takes a more episodic approach before gradually shifting back into the archetypal grand narrative.

Gundam ZZ follows the story of a cocky young junk dealer, Judau Ashta, living in the Shangri-La colony in Side 1. The series starts with him trying to steal the Zeta Gundam, a powerful mobile suit left damaged after the previous war. Judau, unlike the majority of previous Gundam protagonists, is driven initially more by material needs than any lofty ideals. The hardship of living in the aftermath of war, coupled with the burden of taking care of his younger sister Leina, forces him to scavenge and survive off remnants from previous conflicts. However, as the series progresses, Judau develops into a genuine hero.

The story unfolds with the rebellious organization AEUG (Anti-Earth Union Group) still reeling from their great losses from the last conflict. As the Earth Federation continues to show their indifference towards the oppressive Titans, the objective of AEUG becomes far more complicated. In the midst of this, a new threat to peace emerges in the form of Neo Zeon, led by Haman Karn, making the political tapestry of Gundam ZZ intricate and causing alliances to change rapidly and drastically.

A powerful element of the Gundam franchise, mature themes such as the consequences of war, political infighting, and the loss of innocence are quintessential in Gundam ZZ as well. This series succeeds in delivering an interweaving narrative that draws the thin line between friend and enemy, highlighting how perceptions change when conflicting views and propaganda come into play.

The series excels in introducing a rich set of new mobile suits, high-tech spaceships, and innovative weaponry, providing numerous thrilling and fiercely fought battles. Never deviating from the franchise's realistic depiction of machinery and technology, these battles yield catastrophic destruction, bringing the terrifying reality of war closer to home.

Gundam ZZ also takes a deeper dive into the mystical Newtype phenomenon, exploring the deeper potential and impact it poses on the future of mankind. Characters possessing the Newtype abilities, including Judau, are portrayed in fascinating and thoughtful ways, and their multi-layered development adds a certain depth to the overall narrative.

Notably, new design elements make their appearance, from new models of mobile suits to advancements in their weaponry and armaments. The titular suit, the ZZ Gundam, makes its premiere and differentiates itself from its predecessors via a transformative design, adding a fresh and intriguing twist to this new sequel.

This series has a diverse cast that is complete with a mix of old and new characters. This allows for interesting interactions and dynamics as every character has their own intrinsic reason to fight in this conflict. Their personal goals and motivations contribute to the broader narrative, resulting in a captivating storyline that resonates deeply with the audience, provoking thoughts on the cost of war.

Taking the rich lore of the Gundam franchise forward, Mobile Suit Gundam ZZ expands upon the established world, deepens the ongoing narrative, and further develops its vast universe. It's a must-watch for avid fans of Gundam and Mecha, delivering a blend of intense action, complex character development, and thought-provoking philosophical discussions in an interstellar setting. It is a pivotal piece of the Universal Century timeline that sets up the stage for the numerous entries that follow.