Now THIS was a tuff episode to write. It's always fun to challenge yourself though, i've been sitting on this series for months now mulling over in my mind the best way to attack not only this series, but the franchise itself. There's still quite a few franchises we want to get under our belt before we start in on things like character profiles and deeper looks in to specific aspects of shows, but when we do expect the same level of quality, i mean we did two kenshin videos on two completely different topics so it'll be a lot like that. Anyway, art babble aside I hope you're all doing well! check out our patreon for a very important behind the scenes update, and while you're at it let me know what your favorite gundam series is, mine is G!
G is a classic up there with Wing, but I tried watching it again a few years ago and it didn't entirely hold up like I thought it would. But god some of those countries mobile suits were insane lmao
I was a Wing alum when it was airing on Toonami but vi have since become a Gundam SEED fan, I enjoy that series more for sure. Love your content men, would be awesome to see more Gundam from ya!
Me as a kid watching Gundam: YEAH! O.P BIG ASS TIDDY MECHA ROBOTS BEBEEEEEH ‘DUDUDUDUDUDUDUUUUUUUHH’, ‘BOOOOOOOOOOSSSSSHHHHH’, BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!! Me watching it back as an adult:....?...... So you’re telling me this Gundam series is pretty much the goddamn ideological and political ‘Suicide Squad’ of the Gundam Series?!
Toonami indeed. First dragon Ball z, then transformers primal to the finish with gundam wing. And it all started right after I got back from school. ☺️
I still cite Gundam Wing and its narrative surrounding mobile dolls as a simple encapsulation of the fear that automating warfare normalizes atrocity, and distances a technologically-superior aggressor from the horrors of war, which without risk of defeat serves as the only deterrent to continued aggression.
I love that this was a theme of the series, because it forces me InTo internal conflict that sees the grand and individual impact and interpretation of both merits.
On a GrandScale, it's having something to put such faith, confidence, and agreement with that it's worth being a part of, and feeling like it's the righteous cause that you were intent to champion the progression of at ALL cost necrssary, versus the loss of self that makes you become nothing more than a sacrificial offering to something simply because you were more of a follower than a leader capable of looking beyond the conflict of opposing sides to either carve a selfish path of true SelfSatisfaction independent of the imposed ideas of "us versus them" with SelfPreservation on mind, or even to try to seek the ultimate selfless act of finding resolve for both opposing sides of the conflict through a means of the least loss from either side. There just seems to be only Egotistical Dominion that drives the validation of using actual human lives as instruments of war, from a GrandPerspective, IMO.
On an individual level, having a Technological AI do the fighting, rather than you being permitted to embrace the cause you deemed worthy of giving your ultimate sacrifice for, seems to deprive you of having a modus operandi to exist when all you have know is "us versus them". It's as if you were not able to be validated in the greatest decision of the highest impact you have known to be the your only true ultimatum. Not being able to give your greatest efforts towards the success of your ideology can leave you feeling as if you are worthless and WithOut purpose. In turn, what worth does all the faith and struggle you have given toward this ideology have, if it is not dependant on YOU to ensure its continuation? Honestly, I would expect it to have lead to a point where the AI driven MobileDolls were taken by a SplinterFaction that modified the suits to be piloted by human consciousness determined to have a more manual control of their own destiny. Even if it was RemoyeOpperation, there would still be a side that needed to have the faith in a cause that they were directly fighting for.
Mobile Dolls are like United States drone warfare system, i guess we would be Principality of Zeon or the OZ organization? (im not really sure of which faction is what in Gundam Wing)
Fun fact, wings operation meteor was planned originally as a colony drop as is standard in gundam universes. But the five scientists that built the gundams managed to convince the powers that be to not do that and go with their plan of gundams to take out oz
Ahh yes! The amazing days of toonami. The true broadening of many westerners horizons. I have so many beautiful memories from late 90's to early 2000's from toonami. Before the true surge of the internet. Back when AOL/dialup was the predominant internet in my area. Thanks for all these trips down memory lane. P.s. Love you bud, you seem like a really cool person.
It would be awesome to see you guys dive into the, lacking for the right word here, relationship/differences between the pilots and their gundams. Like how Trowa is sorta introverted and a gymnast but pilots Heavy Arms.
I agree with this idea! Duo would be one of the best for this dive given he is one of the best character designs in G Wing. Pilot of the edgiest mobile suit in the series (maybe even the entire franchise) and given one of the most depressing of backstories, Duo could have easily been this dark and brooding, teen angst filled cliche' but instead we have a character with one the sunniest dispositions in the show and easily one of the best characters in Wing. Nothing appeals to me more than a character with the weight of the world on their shoulders who faces it with a smile on their face.
@@codychauvin9203 I won't dive into the design choices myself, but all that is personal preference. But yeah, exactly! The Gundams themselves are sorta like the personality traits that the characters shut off. Hero's is almost like what you would see on a propaganda poster to get you to enlist, but Hero is a cold son of bitch.
The wings are absolutley loaded with verniers, plus they're extra limbs for what the original UC series calls AMBACS, which lets mechs turn without burning more fuel.
I cried for the whole last quarter of this video. Thank you so much, guys, for delving into what it means to be Human. I recently got into social work, and it touched me, and my past self whom fell in love with anime through Gundam Wing. Please be kind to yourselves, and keep being kind to others. Thank you, again. I loved this.
How do you always make videos that are so relevant to me? Once again, you make a video that goes along with what I've been thinking about and dealing with. Thanks for covering this. Not just because this is my first real Gundam show (not my favorite. That would be Seed.) but because it gave me a look into my own issues at the moment.
Gundam Wing was my personal version of "I'm 14 and THIS is DEEP". I still have the entire series on some old VHS tapes that I recorded off Toonami and Midnight Run. I liked it so much that I decided I absolutely had to save it to show my own kids one day. Fast forward 20 years and I couldn't make it more than halfway through the series before getting too bored to continue. The reused animation gets tedious really quick, and the themes aren't nearly as deep and complex as I thought they were as a teenager. Still, I'll always have fond memories of watching it for the first time.
GW and MGS taught me about honor, warrior philosophy, sacrifice, and fighting thru screwed up situations. Def a treat/necessity during my formative years
I'm glad to see someone make light of what makes Wing unique and special compared to other Gundam anime besides being the West's introduction to the franchise. It all seems like hating on Wing is the popular thing to do in the Gundam fanbase these days. If there is one thing I personally really like about Gundam Wing that no one ever seems to mention, it is the complete absence of Newtypes (Coordinators, Innovators, etc.). While I do believe Newtypes have their place in Zeta, CCA, and the 1979 series, I feel that some Gundam anime misuse Newtypes as a lousy excuse to give the main character obscene amounts of plot armor (ZZ, Seed, and especially Unicorn are the worst offenders). I would even go as far to say that the Zero System is an interesting hard sci-fi substitute for Newtypes.
I hated Gundam Wing tbh. It really did bore me to death with all the needless blabbering. Mobile Suit Gundam got me interested in the Gundam franchise because it had a very good plot, even though it was from 1979. My first mecha series was Voltron on the old Toonami, but I just considered it another cartoon back then.
Wing didn't age well but back then I couldn't believe the speed and animation. Agreed the Zero system is a great concept doesn't get brought up enough.
The Zero system is similar to things like the EXAM or HADES system that made pilots perform at a higher level. But yeah I agree I like the Zero system and stuff like the concept of Reuse Psycho and Alaya Vijnana more than the Newtype, Corrdinator, Innovator, etc... I just like the idea of a tradeoff for something extremely powerful. Though the purpose of newtypes and the likes is able to explore some themes that a system or program for combat may not be able to tackle so easily.
@@runescapedreamer450 The more popular a series is, the more hates it gets. Especially when a series is more popular compared to a serie you enjoy. Gundam Wing is like the DBZ of shonen anime.
Also to note, the OST to this show (and Endless Waltz) absolutely fucking slaps. Literally every track from the opening themes (I still waffle to this day between Just Communication or Rhythm Emotion being better) to the moody, jazzy background songs and character themes are just perfect. I can't not get goosebumps when Heero rides out in Epyon for the first time and that song kicks in. Even the english instrumental outro kicks all kinds of ass. I still listen to it in it's fullest almost 20 years later and, while the show itself hasn't aged well I have to admit, the soundtrack to me is the sound of 90's anime.
For me Gundaw Wing will ever be my Favorite Gundam Series.. I've seen the other series..but Gundam wing is just different.. Gundam Wing Zero and Hiro Blow my mind as a kid before..I hope a live action Gundam wing should be considered until now its still the popular Gundam in America
It would also be great to see America get a 1/1 statue of the Wing Zero (EW version) to symbolise its persistent popularity and cult-classic recognition. Just like how China's love of SEED resulted in the a life-sized Freedom Gundam.
I remember watching GW on CN. It was one of those series that sticks with you. Shifts, paradigms, civilization, and bonds. It redefined what a mecha Gundam series was. And Endless Waltz was another story. It opened up so many possibilities for storytelling. Btw excellent use of SF3TS soundtrack. It defined the time, but also evolved. Similar to Gundam Wing. They compliment one another
Gundam WING is such an influential anime that even to this day, I slip up and call all The Gundam series; Mobile Suit Gundam Wing or Gundam Wing Unicorn or Gundam Wing Seed lol
Your bit about beliefs was my favorite part of the video. It reminded me of my favorite quote from Dogma, Rufus: Mankind got it all wrong by takin' a good idea and building a belief structure out of it. Bethany : So you're saying that having beliefs is a bad thing? Rufus : I just think it's better to have an idea. You can change an idea; changing a belief is trickier. People die for it, people kill for it. love the video, keep up the good work!
part of what was cool with wing too is that it was a show with unique mobile suits, but without the crazy pilot style of g gundam. like the cockpit was normal, but the MS was definitely not. the gundams also lost some fights too which made them more real somehow. maybe a poor choice of words on my part but yeah
I absolutely LOVE the Gundam franchise. Started with Gundam Wing on Toonami and now have seen almost every series. PLEASE DO MORE! Especially the themes of the Universal Century. Zeta Gundam is the best in the franchise imo.
When I was 11 my dad challenged me to name one thing I had learned from watching that anime crap, over breakfast. I said “I learned how to collect water in the desert, and that sand turns to glass with extreme heat” and recalled the Apsalus-tracking episode of 08th MS team. My mom’s eyebrows went through the roof as she sipped her coffee lol
I just remember back when I watching this during that time and you get thru the first 5-6 episodes the narrators tone changed. “The year is After Colony 195, OZ! Has finally taken center stage” and I was like this shit just got real.
Felt bad when the video ended. We so good was hanging on every word. Been a fan for 20+ years and it has been a while since I have found a video that covers wing in such detail. Looking forward to the mech video.
I *absolutely* need to hear you talk more about Gundam, especially Wing. I'm most curious as to your thoughts and analysis on Wing's movie: Endless Waltz. I loved Gundam Wing so much, I had the models of all five main Gundams from Endless Waltz and they were my pride and joy for many years
Arguably the best story gundams ever told. Emphasis on vantage points allows the viewer to wrestle with similarities, differences, right, wrong, truth, and perception.
I still prefer the UC works and 00 to Wing, but as the entry that introduced me to the franchise, it's still one with a special place in my heart and a series I return to frequently
I remember when Gundam Wing came out in the West. I didn't understand anything, but I knew it was "important" stuff going on. I've been a major Gundam fan since then and as you said, Gundam Wing isn't the best in the series, it does hold a special place.
@@EagleZtoTheGrave "the game" ? there are atleast 4 gundam dynasty warrior games (1-3 and reborn) got em all and still enjoy em, one of the reasons (besides Armored Core) why i take good care of my ps3 xD
I much like most others in the west was introduced to Gundam through Toonami and honestly before it came out I thought the name of it sounded stupid but when I started watching it I freaking LOVED it, to this day I still have a binder that is full of printouts about the Gundam franchise, mostly front Gundam Wing, Dragonball Z and Pokemon cards, from explanations of the science to concept art, I watched it constantly and recorded most of the show on VHS, I rewatched the whole show some years back and looking back now I realize a few things about the show, 1 is that I don't really think I actually understood the show when I watched it 13-14 years old, I just loved it for the action and mobile suit fights and 2 I realize that the show isn't really all that good, the action is good but the plot isn't so great at times, but thanks to Gundam Wing, the Gundam franchise is one of my absolute favorite anime franchises, but the Universal Century timeline is where the good stuff is
Just finished this show. Like many others, this was my first Gundam anime Some of the things I like about the show are the themes surrounding naiveté and entities that masquerade themselves to have it their way, as well as the disillusionment over what you're fighting for. Like, you have the space colonies who are foolishly naive enough to accept OZ as their allies and liberators when OZ only wants to have it their way with them. The offer of independence is nothing more than bait to the colonies. As Quatre observes how the colonies are seemingly bending knees to OZ more, he becomes disillusioned and goes mad. The colonies that he's fighting for are willing to basically become slaves under false pretences of independence. The irony is that the colonies are unbeknowingly handing away their freedom from one entity to another under a false promise of it. Then there's Relena's naiveté of Total Pacifism. She clings to it too much even when the Sanc Kingdom that she's ruling over is being invaded and under attack. And then she eventually surrenders to OZ and ends up being used and lied to by the Foundation. While she eventually finds a way to sort things out within her new position, it's still telling when Heero calls out on her ideology and how she acts upon it, saying that she's dreaming. The takeaway here is that when you're too naive and kind, when you're too much of pacifist, you allow yourself to be used by those with ill intentions. Naiveté was what made the colonies surrender to OZ, and it was also naiveté that caused the Sanc Kingdom to be annihilated a second time.
Finally! the topics brought up in a lot of Gundam anime and the nuances of how it develops characters are something I feel is right up the alley for this channel. Love this video and as always i'll be checking my feed on Saturday mornings.
I really respect how you can break the themes down with a great prose that does not just seem like a listing of some simple 'war is bad' 'peace good' but a well thought out expression of your interpretation
I never thought about Gundam Wing the way you explained it. It definitely gives me a new perspective when looking at this Gundam series, one that I have let fall to the side as we have gotten many more Gundam shows since then.
You guys make videos that make people think especially me. Thank you for all this I'm a patron now and it's always a better day when you put these out so yes keep making em ....more more and more
When he's talking about internal conflict I think it is interesting how he talks about the right thing to do always changes so he is applying the idea that a person or people has to stay flexible and ready for ready for what ever may come because what is the right thing to do might change.
This was a great video. Gundam is much, much more than just "War bad peace good". It's a story about the moral gray areas that defines a political conflict. It could be very easy for Gundam show war just like almost every war movie shows: A badass hero and his quirky bros fighting a manichest, faceless enemy. But he dares to show that behind the cockpit of the mobile suit, there is a real human being. He dares to show that even the worst things ever done for mankind happen for a reason, that many times there are no definitive right answers. He dares to show that, at the eyes of the average joe who end up in the war for the wrong side for a amount a reasons, the cool and colorfull Gundam is not a hero, but basically a monster. It's a story that chalenges the black and white thinking that a lot of people in society these days still maintain. For me, Gundam is a masterpiece not just of Anime, but art and entertainment itself.
Full dive baby! I remember when it came out, it was hype as hell. I didn't get deeper into Gundam until much later though. Gundam wing endless waltz actually answers a lot of the questions that wing left unanswered. Should def check it out, even if you don't do a video on it.
I've been waiting to listen to your guy's wonderful breakdowns of Gundam, hopefully a Turn A Gundam will come of it, but hey, I love your guy's content.
Very well done. I loved this series, still my favorite Gundam series. Mostly because as a preteen, it really made me think. The fight scenes were great, and Gundams were awesome, but the constant character conflict and discussion of war and politics intrigued me a lot. The description of the Endless Waltz in the OVA, "war, peace, and revolution", is still a perfect (and sometimes sad) way to see the history of humanity. It has some clunky moments, but I find Gundam Wing to be one of the most exceptional of the franchise.
This is such an incredibly thorough analysis. To think--we got to grow up with such complex characters and realistic storylines. It's incredible that the creators can make something so interesting for both children and adults while leveraging the human condition. Awesome series, awesome review.
Very good choice for the first gundam anime. I didnt care to much about this channel before but now you got my attention. I look forward to see more gentlemen.
I am an absolutely huge fan of all things Gundam and mecha I hope you do way more gundam themed videos id love to see a vid on the culture of gunpla as well you guys are my favorite anime channel on youtube! keep up the good work
I got introduced to Gundam through Gundam Seed Destiny. I know not too many people talk about that one, but I personally really enjoyed it. I'd say that and Dragon Ball Z are the first anime shows I remember watching, but I never really knew the difference, I was just happy to watch tv lmao all in all its nice to go back down a road I haven't visited in so long thanks for this one dude!
I still have the DVD box set of Gundam Wing + Endless Waltz that I bought online in like 2001 or 2002. Such great memories of this show blowing my 17 year old mind when it aired on Toonami
While Xenogears was my first story where my mech immersed began, I like some did not have regular access to Toonami and did not catch the first episode to bring everything together. Years later, with access to the internet, I went through all of MS Gundam 0079 and went on from there, mainly through the UC timeline. I had other detours through things like Turn-A, 00, 08th MS Team, Unicorn, and Iron n Blooded Orphans with enjoyment. However, I never made my way around to things like Wing, Seed, Char's Counterattack, or G. Would what I missed and more be worth returning to? As well as you summarized Wing specifically, would I be missing anything by not diving into it?
Thank you so much for your beautifully crafted videos. I'm happy you chose to devote a considerable amount to the politics of Gundam since that is one of the biggest driving forces in the whole franchise. Gundam Wing was also my first exposure to the series, even though I generally prefer Gundam Seed. The first one I ever saw from you guys was Promare: Taste The Rainbow and I have been a huge fan of the content this channel produces since then. Please keep up the fantastic work!
Absolutely loved this show as a teenager. It was incredibly complex story for me to experience as a young man and really shaped me to always see things from another point of view. I was obsessed with this show, bought the model kits, bought books and magazines. I wouldn’t be impressed with another Gundam story until Iron Blooded Orphans.
If you don't know him yet you might want to check out the channel Kakarot197 despite the name it is a pretty active channel focused on Gundam both facts and infos about the anime / manga and stuff about their gunpla (modelkits)
I loved Gundam Wing as a kid, and, at 25, I still do. I even have the RG Wing Gundam Zero kit from Endless Waltz as a reminder of all the good times that I had as a child, and when I truly became a fan of the sci-fi genre. That, and the Wing Zero EW is such a beautiful and iconic mobile suit.
As some one who reviews Gundam model kits, I greatly appreciate you doing this video. I hope you can do more on Gundam and mecha in general. Keep up the great work!
Really hope you eventually cover G Gundam. It's also a personal favorite and genuinely tells just as good of a story about war as it's bretheren deep in it's shonen facade
I only saw a handful of episodes as a kid but it still managed to hook me, what left an impression for life though was the movie which I only managed to watch by chance, even as a 10 year old that had most of the movie go over my head I felt like I was watching something greater than I was accustomed to and I didn't take it lightly
This is one of the greatest UA-cam Videos Ive ever seen about my favorite anime ever. Thanks you for this. Im also an artist. Working on an album inspired by Gundam Wing. Ill be back when it’s done. Youll hear from me again soon. Thank you for the most in depth explanation of Gundam Wing I have ever heard.
Gundam Wing was really my first Mecha anime and gateway anime in general, to this do it still holds a special place in my heart and will always be number 1
Really well said, Mike. This is an excellent video. Some of the smartest people on earth are on youtube. I hope you'll delve into the Gundam franchise again. I love the original so much.
Love that you did a video on first (& still favorite) Gundam. I hope you’ll eventually do a deeper dive (& possibly even include Endless Waltz) like you recently did with G Gundam (which I also love, but is more fun & entertaining vs Wing’s more ideology / philosophy / relationships). I also love how Wing had so many important female characters.
Gundam Wing is still one of my all-time fav series. :) It was my first Gundam and the story and characters hold a very special place in my heart. I still watch Endless Waltz (the OVA for the series) every Christmas Eve as a tradition between me and some of my friends from our days in jr high. ❤️
Now THIS was a tuff episode to write. It's always fun to challenge yourself though, i've been sitting on this series for months now mulling over in my mind the best way to attack not only this series, but the franchise itself. There's still quite a few franchises we want to get under our belt before we start in on things like character profiles and deeper looks in to specific aspects of shows, but when we do expect the same level of quality, i mean we did two kenshin videos on two completely different topics so it'll be a lot like that. Anyway, art babble aside I hope you're all doing well! check out our patreon for a very important behind the scenes update, and while you're at it let me know what your favorite gundam series is, mine is G!
G is my favorite too, so you're probably doing a video on it riiiiight?!
G is a classic up there with Wing, but I tried watching it again a few years ago and it didn't entirely hold up like I thought it would. But god some of those countries mobile suits were insane lmao
I was a Wing alum when it was airing on Toonami but vi have since become a Gundam SEED fan, I enjoy that series more for sure. Love your content men, would be awesome to see more Gundam from ya!
@@JynxBlack13 I found it hard to get into SEED but more so 00, but I'm definitely a big fan of the suits from SEED
make as many kenshin videos as you want!
Kid me: giant robots fighting cooool
Adult me: gundam is a deep political driven series of ideology
kid self: fight fight fight
adult self: talk talk talk
true haha
That's exactly how I feel as well, I watched it for the cool gundams as a kid, now I watch it for the cool gundams AND politics...
Me as a kid watching Gundam: YEAH! O.P BIG ASS TIDDY MECHA ROBOTS BEBEEEEEH ‘DUDUDUDUDUDUDUUUUUUUHH’, ‘BOOOOOOOOOOSSSSSHHHHH’, BOOOOOOOOOOOOOOM!!!!!
Me watching it back as an adult:....?...... So you’re telling me this Gundam series is pretty much the goddamn ideological and political ‘Suicide Squad’ of the Gundam Series?!
Yep!!!
I'll never forget my dad staying up to tape episodes of Wing for me as a kid. Such a nostalgic show.
Also, more gundam please.
Cool dad
What a great dad
What a chad of a dad
True this was my first time watching Gundam. Toonami anyone ?
Toonami indeed.
First dragon Ball z, then transformers primal to the finish with gundam wing. And it all started right after I got back from school. ☺️
Toonami is God's gift to the world and must be protected at all times
Yep! Toonami in the Netherlands!
@@Grayfox3214 I think it was on RTL 7. Or yorin as it was called back then 🤔
@@tyhy1 That’s right!
"War is a continuation of politics by other means."
-Carl von Clausewitz
You should consider looking into Macross as well.
I saw Gundam Wing last January, i love it. Duo Maxwell is best boi
I still cite Gundam Wing and its narrative surrounding mobile dolls as a simple encapsulation of the fear that automating warfare normalizes atrocity, and distances a technologically-superior aggressor from the horrors of war, which without risk of defeat serves as the only deterrent to continued aggression.
This. This is one of the often overlooked themes of Gundam Wing. Bravo!
I love that this was a theme of the series, because it forces me InTo internal conflict that sees the grand and individual impact and interpretation of both merits.
On a GrandScale, it's having something to put such faith, confidence, and agreement with that it's worth being a part of, and feeling like it's the righteous cause that you were intent to champion the progression of at ALL cost necrssary, versus the loss of self that makes you become nothing more than a sacrificial offering to something simply because you were more of a follower than a leader capable of looking beyond the conflict of opposing sides to either carve a selfish path of true SelfSatisfaction independent of the imposed ideas of "us versus them" with SelfPreservation on mind, or even to try to seek the ultimate selfless act of finding resolve for both opposing sides of the conflict through a means of the least loss from either side.
There just seems to be only Egotistical Dominion that drives the validation of using actual human lives as instruments of war, from a GrandPerspective, IMO.
On an individual level, having a Technological AI do the fighting, rather than you being permitted to embrace the cause you deemed worthy of giving your ultimate sacrifice for, seems to deprive you of having a modus operandi to exist when all you have know is "us versus them". It's as if you were not able to be validated in the greatest decision of the highest impact you have known to be the your only true ultimatum. Not being able to give your greatest efforts towards the success of your ideology can leave you feeling as if you are worthless and WithOut purpose. In turn, what worth does all the faith and struggle you have given toward this ideology have, if it is not dependant on YOU to ensure its continuation?
Honestly, I would expect it to have lead to a point where the AI driven MobileDolls were taken by a SplinterFaction that modified the suits to be piloted by human consciousness determined to have a more manual control of their own destiny. Even if it was RemoyeOpperation, there would still be a side that needed to have the faith in a cause that they were directly fighting for.
Mobile Dolls are like United States drone warfare system, i guess we would be Principality of Zeon or the OZ organization? (im not really sure of which faction is what in Gundam Wing)
Fun fact, wings operation meteor was planned originally as a colony drop as is standard in gundam universes. But the five scientists that built the gundams managed to convince the powers that be to not do that and go with their plan of gundams to take out oz
Ahh yes! The amazing days of toonami. The true broadening of many westerners horizons. I have so many beautiful memories from late 90's to early 2000's from toonami. Before the true surge of the internet. Back when AOL/dialup was the predominant internet in my area. Thanks for all these trips down memory lane.
P.s. Love you bud, you seem like a really cool person.
It would be awesome to see you guys dive into the, lacking for the right word here, relationship/differences between the pilots and their gundams. Like how Trowa is sorta introverted and a gymnast but pilots Heavy Arms.
I agree with this idea! Duo would be one of the best for this dive given he is one of the best character designs in G Wing. Pilot of the edgiest mobile suit in the series (maybe even the entire franchise) and given one of the most depressing of backstories, Duo could have easily been this dark and brooding, teen angst filled cliche' but instead we have a character with one the sunniest dispositions in the show and easily one of the best characters in Wing. Nothing appeals to me more than a character with the weight of the world on their shoulders who faces it with a smile on their face.
@@codychauvin9203 I won't dive into the design choices myself, but all that is personal preference. But yeah, exactly! The Gundams themselves are sorta like the personality traits that the characters shut off. Hero's is almost like what you would see on a propaganda poster to get you to enlist, but Hero is a cold son of bitch.
@@codychauvin9203 in German duo has the same voice actor as Sasuke xD
also does anyone else remember the endless waltz movie and how Heero used his Gundams wings...in space?!
Rule of Cool
Because of the designs for endless waltz, they went back and re did the whole manga
@@nathanielpearman9169 ahaah that's awesome.
The wings are absolutley loaded with verniers, plus they're extra limbs for what the original UC series calls AMBACS, which lets mechs turn without burning more fuel.
@@DIEGhostfish so damn cool.
I cried for the whole last quarter of this video. Thank you so much, guys, for delving into what it means to be Human. I recently got into social work, and it touched me, and my past self whom fell in love with anime through Gundam Wing. Please be kind to yourselves, and keep being kind to others. Thank you, again. I loved this.
ITS A GUNDAM!!!!!!
*MOBILE SUIT EXPLODES*
How do you always make videos that are so relevant to me? Once again, you make a video that goes along with what I've been thinking about and dealing with.
Thanks for covering this. Not just because this is my first real Gundam show (not my favorite. That would be Seed.) but because it gave me a look into my own issues at the moment.
Gundam wing on toonami absolutely got me hooked to anime alongside dbz. Great video!
Gundam Wing was my personal version of "I'm 14 and THIS is DEEP". I still have the entire series on some old VHS tapes that I recorded off Toonami and Midnight Run. I liked it so much that I decided I absolutely had to save it to show my own kids one day. Fast forward 20 years and I couldn't make it more than halfway through the series before getting too bored to continue. The reused animation gets tedious really quick, and the themes aren't nearly as deep and complex as I thought they were as a teenager. Still, I'll always have fond memories of watching it for the first time.
i felt this
Same here. 00 is still holding up since it's more recent.
check out Gundaminfo channel on youtube....
Try Unicorn. I loved it as an adult
Agreed, it touches on some absolutely awesome stuff, like the consequences of automated war, but then devolves again at the drop of a dime lol
GW and MGS taught me about honor, warrior philosophy, sacrifice, and fighting thru screwed up situations.
Def a treat/necessity during my formative years
I'm glad to see someone make light of what makes Wing unique and special compared to other Gundam anime besides being the West's introduction to the franchise. It all seems like hating on Wing is the popular thing to do in the Gundam fanbase these days.
If there is one thing I personally really like about Gundam Wing that no one ever seems to mention, it is the complete absence of Newtypes (Coordinators, Innovators, etc.). While I do believe Newtypes have their place in Zeta, CCA, and the 1979 series, I feel that some Gundam anime misuse Newtypes as a lousy excuse to give the main character obscene amounts of plot armor (ZZ, Seed, and especially Unicorn are the worst offenders). I would even go as far to say that the Zero System is an interesting hard sci-fi substitute for Newtypes.
I hated Gundam Wing tbh. It really did bore me to death with all the needless blabbering. Mobile Suit Gundam got me interested in the Gundam franchise because it had a very good plot, even though it was from 1979. My first mecha series was Voltron on the old Toonami, but I just considered it another cartoon back then.
Wing didn't age well but back then I couldn't believe the speed and animation. Agreed the Zero system is a great concept doesn't get brought up enough.
The Zero system is similar to things like the EXAM or HADES system that made pilots perform at a higher level.
But yeah I agree I like the Zero system and stuff like the concept of Reuse Psycho and Alaya Vijnana more than the Newtype, Corrdinator, Innovator, etc... I just like the idea of a tradeoff for something extremely powerful.
Though the purpose of newtypes and the likes is able to explore some themes that a system or program for combat may not be able to tackle so easily.
Didn't Kno wing was hated i only ever heard ppl hating seed xD
@@runescapedreamer450 The more popular a series is, the more hates it gets. Especially when a series is more popular compared to a serie you enjoy. Gundam Wing is like the DBZ of shonen anime.
Oh word? 3rd Strike OST episode? I'm listening!
Yooo I was thinking the same thing!!
Legendary ost
We await your return, warrior.
Also to note, the OST to this show (and Endless Waltz) absolutely fucking slaps. Literally every track from the opening themes (I still waffle to this day between Just Communication or Rhythm Emotion being better) to the moody, jazzy background songs and character themes are just perfect. I can't not get goosebumps when Heero rides out in Epyon for the first time and that song kicks in. Even the english instrumental outro kicks all kinds of ass.
I still listen to it in it's fullest almost 20 years later and, while the show itself hasn't aged well I have to admit, the soundtrack to me is the sound of 90's anime.
Sad news but Kirby Morrow, dub voice actor for Trowa Barton (Pilot of the Heavyarms) passed away earlier today. He will be missed.
For me Gundaw Wing will ever be my Favorite Gundam Series.. I've seen the other series..but Gundam wing is just different.. Gundam Wing Zero and Hiro Blow my mind as a kid before..I hope a live action Gundam wing should be considered until now its still the popular Gundam in America
It would also be great to see America get a 1/1 statue of the Wing Zero (EW version) to symbolise its persistent popularity and cult-classic recognition. Just like how China's love of SEED resulted in the a life-sized Freedom Gundam.
I remember watching GW on CN. It was one of those series that sticks with you. Shifts, paradigms, civilization, and bonds. It redefined what a mecha Gundam series was. And Endless Waltz was another story. It opened up so many possibilities for storytelling.
Btw excellent use of SF3TS soundtrack. It defined the time, but also evolved. Similar to Gundam Wing. They compliment one another
Gundam WING is such an influential anime that even to this day, I slip up and call all The Gundam series; Mobile Suit Gundam Wing or Gundam Wing Unicorn or Gundam Wing Seed lol
Your bit about beliefs was my favorite part of the video. It reminded me of my favorite quote from Dogma,
Rufus: Mankind got it all wrong by takin' a good idea and building a belief structure out of it.
Bethany : So you're saying that having beliefs is a bad thing?
Rufus : I just think it's better to have an idea. You can change an idea; changing a belief is trickier. People die for it, people kill for it.
love the video, keep up the good work!
part of what was cool with wing too is that it was a show with unique mobile suits, but without the crazy pilot style of g gundam. like the cockpit was normal, but the MS was definitely not. the gundams also lost some fights too which made them more real somehow. maybe a poor choice of words on my part but yeah
I absolutely LOVE the Gundam franchise. Started with Gundam Wing on Toonami and now have seen almost every series. PLEASE DO MORE! Especially the themes of the Universal Century. Zeta Gundam is the best in the franchise imo.
who says you cant learn anything from anime?
this anime showed that...WAR IS BAD!
In the coolest way possible lol As Endless Waltz said though "As long as mankind exists, there will always be battles."
Anime is full of philosophy, some are almost a phil 100 class
When I was 11 my dad challenged me to name one thing I had learned from watching that anime crap, over breakfast. I said “I learned how to collect water in the desert, and that sand turns to glass with extreme heat” and recalled the Apsalus-tracking episode of 08th MS team. My mom’s eyebrows went through the roof as she sipped her coffee lol
I think you didn't see many anime which has very interesting philosophies. It is not some but I think there are more 20 animes.
@@HerMi.T it's called joking mate learn it
This show and the armored core games was my childhood.
f***ing love Gundam. You guys gotta do more on all the series! @mike especially if youre gonna narrate! youre my favorite :)
5:05 in the censored cut he says "I'll destroy you" to which I could only imagine her replying "That's the general idea."
I just remember back when I watching this during that time and you get thru the first 5-6 episodes the narrators tone changed. “The year is After Colony 195, OZ! Has finally taken center stage” and I was like this shit just got real.
Chris Brewer and boy does it ever! Right after is one hell of rollercoaster ride of war death and awesome robot battles!
FINALLY Someone who loves Mobile Fighter G Gundam! Idk why so many people hate on it.
Thought it was a very well done intro. Hope to see more of it. This series holds a special place in my life right up there with the 08th MS Team.
Felt bad when the video ended. We so good was hanging on every word. Been a fan for 20+ years and it has been a while since I have found a video that covers wing in such detail. Looking forward to the mech video.
More GUNDAM!!!
I *absolutely* need to hear you talk more about Gundam, especially Wing. I'm most curious as to your thoughts and analysis on Wing's movie: Endless Waltz. I loved Gundam Wing so much, I had the models of all five main Gundams from Endless Waltz and they were my pride and joy for many years
Gundam is perhaps my favorite anime franchise, but ironically, I’ve never seen Gundam wing
Arguably the best story gundams ever told. Emphasis on vantage points allows the viewer to wrestle with similarities, differences, right, wrong, truth, and perception.
Alex Ephraim I’ve been meaning to watch it cause stuff like this is very interesting to me
I highly recommend you rectify that.
I still prefer the UC works and 00 to Wing, but as the entry that introduced me to the franchise, it's still one with a special place in my heart and a series I return to frequently
@@tomex0725 It's literally a disjointed conglomeration of everything that came before in UC. It needed more episodes.
I remember when Gundam Wing came out in the West. I didn't understand anything, but I knew it was "important" stuff going on. I've been a major Gundam fan since then and as you said, Gundam Wing isn't the best in the series, it does hold a special place.
Gundam Wing was totally my first Gundam series and is still my absolute favorite. Awesome video as per usual =)
I got real real sad when I heard that Dynasty Warriors Gundam battle music... I miss that game.
Was thinking the exact same thing! I think a new entry would be very much appreciated!
Played a demo & never bought the actual game, regret it.
@@EagleZtoTheGrave "the game" ? there are atleast 4 gundam dynasty warrior games (1-3 and reborn) got em all and still enjoy em, one of the reasons (besides Armored Core) why i take good care of my ps3 xD
I just wanna say dude, you guys videos are a God Send. I truly enjoy watching the summaries of these different anime’s
I much like most others in the west was introduced to Gundam through Toonami and honestly before it came out I thought the name of it sounded stupid but when I started watching it I freaking LOVED it, to this day I still have a binder that is full of printouts about the Gundam franchise, mostly front Gundam Wing, Dragonball Z and Pokemon cards, from explanations of the science to concept art, I watched it constantly and recorded most of the show on VHS, I rewatched the whole show some years back and looking back now I realize a few things about the show, 1 is that I don't really think I actually understood the show when I watched it 13-14 years old, I just loved it for the action and mobile suit fights and 2 I realize that the show isn't really all that good, the action is good but the plot isn't so great at times, but thanks to Gundam Wing, the Gundam franchise is one of my absolute favorite anime franchises, but the Universal Century timeline is where the good stuff is
Zechs goes thru Char's entire 93 episode and 1 movie character arc in 1 show. Crazy.
Nice!!!! I've been looking into model kits lately, I'll take this as a sign 😎
Awesome video 💯👌
Just finished this show. Like many others, this was my first Gundam anime
Some of the things I like about the show are the themes surrounding naiveté and entities that masquerade themselves to have it their way, as well as the disillusionment over what you're fighting for.
Like, you have the space colonies who are foolishly naive enough to accept OZ as their allies and liberators when OZ only wants to have it their way with them. The offer of independence is nothing more than bait to the colonies. As Quatre observes how the colonies are seemingly bending knees to OZ more, he becomes disillusioned and goes mad. The colonies that he's fighting for are willing to basically become slaves under false pretences of independence. The irony is that the colonies are unbeknowingly handing away their freedom from one entity to another under a false promise of it.
Then there's Relena's naiveté of Total Pacifism. She clings to it too much even when the Sanc Kingdom that she's ruling over is being invaded and under attack. And then she eventually surrenders to OZ and ends up being used and lied to by the Foundation. While she eventually finds a way to sort things out within her new position, it's still telling when Heero calls out on her ideology and how she acts upon it, saying that she's dreaming. The takeaway here is that when you're too naive and kind, when you're too much of pacifist, you allow yourself to be used by those with ill intentions. Naiveté was what made the colonies surrender to OZ, and it was also naiveté that caused the Sanc Kingdom to be annihilated a second time.
More more lots more. Dude, you did amazing analysis and great synopsis of the Gundam series. Mike was my dad's name .
Gundam Wing thorough explanation, Godlike 3rd Strike background music... 10 outa 10 video. One of the best channels in all UA-cam
Took me way too long to realize that was Ibuki’s theme lol
Good stuff as always
Great choice with the Third Strike music! Fantastic video and a great articulation of the franchises pros and cons. Keep em coming!
7:27 this was a beautiful connection
Finally! the topics brought up in a lot of Gundam anime and the nuances of how it develops characters are something I feel is right up the alley for this channel. Love this video and as always i'll be checking my feed on Saturday mornings.
I really respect how you can break the themes down with a great prose that does not just seem like a listing of some simple 'war is bad' 'peace good' but a well thought out expression of your interpretation
I never thought about Gundam Wing the way you explained it. It definitely gives me a new perspective when looking at this Gundam series, one that I have let fall to the side as we have gotten many more Gundam shows since then.
Also, 20 years later and I have just learned that OZ is shorthand for order of the zodiac and that’s why all their suits are named as such. Wow.
I remember this series but I don’t remember them explaining what the name oz means I guess that explains why the mobile suits have zodiac names.
You guys make videos that make people think especially me. Thank you for all this I'm a patron now and it's always a better day when you put these out so yes keep making em ....more more and more
When he's talking about internal conflict I think it is interesting how he talks about the right thing to do always changes so he is applying the idea that a person or people has to stay flexible and ready for ready for what ever may come because what is the right thing to do might change.
Yessss please make more Gundam Wing videos and I loved the Street Fighter 3rd Strike music so much. This was truly an amazing video.
This was a great video. Gundam is much, much more than just "War bad peace good". It's a story about the moral gray areas that defines a political conflict. It could be very easy for Gundam show war just like almost every war movie shows: A badass hero and his quirky bros fighting a manichest, faceless enemy. But he dares to show that behind the cockpit of the mobile suit, there is a real human being. He dares to show that even the worst things ever done for mankind happen for a reason, that many times there are no definitive right answers. He dares to show that, at the eyes of the average joe who end up in the war for the wrong side for a amount a reasons, the cool and colorfull Gundam is not a hero, but basically a monster. It's a story that chalenges the black and white thinking that a lot of people in society these days still maintain. For me, Gundam is a masterpiece not just of Anime, but art and entertainment itself.
Iron blooded orphan is still my favorite gundam show
Full dive baby! I remember when it came out, it was hype as hell. I didn't get deeper into Gundam until much later though. Gundam wing endless waltz actually answers a lot of the questions that wing left unanswered. Should def check it out, even if you don't do a video on it.
This was deep. I really enjoyed it
I've been waiting to listen to your guy's wonderful breakdowns of Gundam, hopefully a Turn A Gundam will come of it, but hey, I love your guy's content.
Very well done. I loved this series, still my favorite Gundam series. Mostly because as a preteen, it really made me think. The fight scenes were great, and Gundams were awesome, but the constant character conflict and discussion of war and politics intrigued me a lot. The description of the Endless Waltz in the OVA, "war, peace, and revolution", is still a perfect (and sometimes sad) way to see the history of humanity. It has some clunky moments, but I find Gundam Wing to be one of the most exceptional of the franchise.
This is such an incredibly thorough analysis. To think--we got to grow up with such complex characters and realistic storylines. It's incredible that the creators can make something so interesting for both children and adults while leveraging the human condition. Awesome series, awesome review.
Very good choice for the first gundam anime.
I didnt care to much about this channel before but now you got my attention.
I look forward to see more gentlemen.
I am an absolutely huge fan of all things Gundam and mecha
I hope you do way more gundam themed videos
id love to see a vid on the culture of gunpla as well
you guys are my favorite anime channel on youtube! keep up the good work
I would love to see you talk about mobile suit g gundam. Still my favorite mecha
I got introduced to Gundam through Gundam Seed Destiny. I know not too many people talk about that one, but I personally really enjoyed it. I'd say that and Dragon Ball Z are the first anime shows I remember watching, but I never really knew the difference, I was just happy to watch tv lmao
all in all its nice to go back down a road I haven't visited in so long thanks for this one dude!
Love how well written this video was. I have barely dipped my toes into Gundam but this just encouraged me to dive in! Thank you!
I still have the DVD box set of Gundam Wing + Endless Waltz that I bought online in like 2001 or 2002.
Such great memories of this show blowing my 17 year old mind when it aired on Toonami
While Xenogears was my first story where my mech immersed began, I like some did not have regular access to Toonami and did not catch the first episode to bring everything together. Years later, with access to the internet, I went through all of MS Gundam 0079 and went on from there, mainly through the UC timeline. I had other detours through things like Turn-A, 00, 08th MS Team, Unicorn, and Iron n Blooded Orphans with enjoyment. However, I never made my way around to things like Wing, Seed, Char's Counterattack, or G. Would what I missed and more be worth returning to? As well as you summarized Wing specifically, would I be missing anything by not diving into it?
This was very insightful. Nice video & analysis, and kudos on the SF3 background music!
Thank you so much for your beautifully crafted videos. I'm happy you chose to devote a considerable amount to the politics of Gundam since that is one of the biggest driving forces in the whole franchise. Gundam Wing was also my first exposure to the series, even though I generally prefer Gundam Seed. The first one I ever saw from you guys was Promare: Taste The Rainbow and I have been a huge fan of the content this channel produces since then. Please keep up the fantastic work!
Absolutely loved this show as a teenager. It was incredibly complex story for me to experience as a young man and really shaped me to always see things from another point of view. I was obsessed with this show, bought the model kits, bought books and magazines. I wouldn’t be impressed with another Gundam story until Iron Blooded Orphans.
Finally a Gundam video. It's so hard to find any nowadays lol.
Thanks for the vids friends💯🙏
If you don't know him yet you might want to check out the channel Kakarot197 despite the name it is a pretty active channel focused on Gundam both facts and infos about the anime / manga and stuff about their gunpla (modelkits)
@@TheAzureGhost niiice thanks friend
Just so you guys know, Gundam and Gunpla are dummy addicting...proceed with fandom cautiously.
I loved Gundam Wing as a kid, and, at 25, I still do. I even have the RG Wing Gundam Zero kit from Endless Waltz as a reminder of all the good times that I had as a child, and when I truly became a fan of the sci-fi genre.
That, and the Wing Zero EW is such a beautiful and iconic mobile suit.
As some one who reviews Gundam model kits, I greatly appreciate you doing this video. I hope you can do more on Gundam and mecha in general. Keep up the great work!
I can’t wait for more gundam or mecha related videos! You guys rocks!
Really hope you eventually cover G Gundam. It's also a personal favorite and genuinely tells just as good of a story about war as it's bretheren deep in it's shonen facade
For me it all started in AC 195, and now I’ve been to multiple Gundam universes. Thank you Toonami.
gundam wing is DEFINITELY what got me into the franchise, thank you toonami haha
Gundam is my absolute favorite anime franchise! Thanks for opening peoples eyes to such an amazing series!
Thank you so much for analyzing the awsome scifi concept and great character development of a show.
Gundam Seed - amazed me with their battle choreography
Gundam 00 - amazed me with the real world problems and philosophy
I only saw a handful of episodes as a kid but it still managed to hook me, what left an impression for life though was the movie which I only managed to watch by chance, even as a 10 year old that had most of the movie go over my head I felt like I was watching something greater than I was accustomed to and I didn't take it lightly
As a Gundam fan since Wing first premiered on Toonmai, I have to say you guys fid the show justice. Keep up the good work
This is one of the greatest UA-cam Videos Ive ever seen about my favorite anime ever. Thanks you for this. Im also an artist. Working on an album inspired by Gundam Wing. Ill be back when it’s done. Youll hear from me again soon. Thank you for the most in depth explanation of Gundam Wing I have ever heard.
Gundam Wing was really my first Mecha anime and gateway anime in general, to this do it still holds a special place in my heart and will always be number 1
Really well said, Mike. This is an excellent video. Some of the smartest people on earth are on youtube. I hope you'll delve into the Gundam franchise again. I love the original so much.
I love all of your content, any time I see a video from your team I watch it before anything else, premium content ❤️
G gundam deserves it's own video!
Here we go w the Saturday morning HEAT 🦀🦀🦀🦀
Love that you did a video on first (& still favorite) Gundam. I hope you’ll eventually do a deeper dive (& possibly even include Endless Waltz) like you recently did with G Gundam (which I also love, but is more fun & entertaining vs Wing’s more ideology / philosophy / relationships). I also love how Wing had so many important female characters.
literally just shared your channel with a ton of people because it's so good! You have to watch Big-O 👏🏿
The content where Bonzai struggles to come up with concise answers is the best
Great video. Love the 3S soundtrack throughout too
Gundam Wing is still one of my all-time fav series. :) It was my first Gundam and the story and characters hold a very special place in my heart. I still watch Endless Waltz (the OVA for the series) every Christmas Eve as a tradition between me and some of my friends from our days in jr high. ❤️