The anime landscape is constantly evolving, with new series and platforms emerging regularly. Amidst this dynamic environment, older gems sometimes get a second chance to shine. One such example is After War Gundam X, a series that, after nearly three decades, has finally found a streaming home on Tubi TV. This marks the first time the complete series is available for free streaming in the US, opening the door for new and longtime Gundam fans to experience this unique entry in the franchise.
A Post-Apocalyptic Tale of Survival and Hope
After War Gundam X originally aired in Japan in 1996, running for 39 episodes. It is the seventh installment in the long-running Gundam franchise. The series differentiates itself from other Gundam series by taking place in an alternate timeline known as the After War (A.W.) timeline. This timeline is set 15 years after a devastating conflict known as the 7th Space War. The war was so destructive that the Earth’s surface was ravaged, and much of the population was lost. In this post-apocalyptic setting, society struggles to rebuild while remnants of mobile suits and war technologies fall into the hands of different factions and civilians.
The story centers around Garrod Ran, a war orphan with exceptional mobile suit piloting skills. Garrod gets caught up in a mission to rescue Tiffa, a mysterious girl with unique mental abilities. Their journey leads them to the remains of an old factory, where they discover the powerful Gundam X mobile suit. The narrative explores themes of survival, redemption, and the fight for a peaceful future. It also delves into the exploitation of Newtypes, individuals with exceptional mental abilities, as well as the complex relationships between war, technology, and humanity.
Why This Gundam Series is Worth a Watch
Despite its initial struggles during its original broadcast, After War Gundam X has gradually gained a dedicated following over the years. The series boasts compelling characters, intense mobile suit battles, and a unique post-apocalyptic setting. The show is directed by Shinji Takamatsu, with a screenplay by Hiroyuki Kawasaki. The animation is a product of its time, but the story, characters, and action sequences hold up well.
The series has garnered a positive reception from fans. It holds a 7.36 rating on Anime News Network, a 7.2 rating on IMDB, and a 4.7/5 rating on Amazon. A poll conducted by the r/Gundam subreddit in 2023 ranked After War Gundam X ninth out of 42 Gundam series, further demonstrating that this series is well regarded by fans.
After War Gundam X sets itself apart by not being part of the Universal Century timeline, which is where many of the main Gundam series are set. This makes it a good entry point for viewers who are not familiar with the expansive Gundam universe.
A Second Chance for a Hidden Gem
For many years, After War Gundam X has been considered one of the most underrated series in the Gundam franchise, struggling to gain popularity both in Japan and internationally. Despite its compelling themes, the series was cut short by 10 episodes from its planned 49 due to declining viewership. This cancellation has led to its reputation as a hidden gem among Gundam fans, with many calling for it to be reevaluated.
Tubi: A New Home for Anime
Tubi TV is a free, ad-supported streaming service owned by Fox. It has been expanding its anime offerings in recent years, including acquiring the rights to stream popular series like Cowboy Bebop, Akira, and Attack on Titan. The platform has also been adding English subtitled versions of popular series like Dr. Slump and Saint Seiya: Hades, making them available for the first time on a streaming service.
The addition of After War Gundam X to Tubi TV is significant for several reasons. It is the first Gundam series available on the platform, suggesting that other overlooked titles may find a home on Tubi in the future. This move also provides a wider audience with the opportunity to experience a series that had previously been difficult to access.
Other Anime on Tubi
Tubi offers a wide variety of free anime to watch. Some notable titles include:
- Hunter x Hunter
- Toradora!
- Ranma 1/2
- Naruto
- JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure
- Ergo Proxy
- A Certain Scientific Railgun
- Bunny Drop
In addition to these popular titles, Tubi also has a variety of anime films and TV series from various genres.
How to Watch After War Gundam X
All 39 episodes of After War Gundam X are available on Tubi, with the original Japanese audio and English subtitles. Tubi is a free streaming service, so viewers can watch the series without any subscription fees. The platform is available on various devices, including smart TVs, smartphones, tablets, and gaming consoles.
A Perfect Opportunity for Gundam Fans
The streaming debut of After War Gundam X on Tubi provides the perfect opportunity for both longtime fans and newcomers to experience this series. For existing fans, it’s a chance to revisit a beloved show. For those unfamiliar with the franchise or seeking a standalone story, it offers an easily accessible entry point into the world of Gundam. As the series approaches its 30th anniversary, its presence on Tubi guarantees that this underrated anime will gain the recognition it deserves.
After War Gundam X is a series that has aged well. It’s a story about hope and survival in a world scarred by war, themes that are always relevant. If you are looking for a unique and engaging anime, now is the time to check out After War Gundam X for free on Tubi.
