The highly anticipated Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX series is gearing up for its premiere, and a special theatrical release titled Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- is set to give fans an early look. The trailer for this theatrical cut has just been released, and it features the debut of the theme song “Plazma,” performed by the acclaimed artist Kenshi Yonezu. This collaboration between the Gundam franchise and the popular singer has generated considerable excitement among anime fans.
The Gundam Universe Expands
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX marks the latest expansion of the Gundam universe, promising a fresh narrative approach while staying true to the series’ core themes. The anime is a collaborative effort between Studio Khara, known for the Evangelion series, and Sunrise, the studio behind the Gundam franchise. This partnership brings together some of the most innovative and influential minds in the anime industry. Kazuya Tsurumaki, who is known for his work as assistant director on Neon Genesis Evangelion, will be directing the series. The script is co-written by Hideaki Anno (also of Evangelion fame), alongside Yoji Enokido, who is known for his work on Revolutionary Girl Utena. Adding to the creative powerhouse, Ikuto Yamashita (Evangelion, Shin Kamen Rider) is in charge of mechanical designs, Take (Pokémon Sun & Moon) is the lead character designer, and Mahiro Maeda (The Animatrix, Evangelion: 3.0+1.0 Thrice Upon a Time) is the lead storyboard artist. With such a stellar lineup, the anime is poised to be a standout entry in the Gundam franchise.
Storyline and Characters
The story of Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX centers around Amate Yuzuriha, a high school student living a seemingly peaceful life on a space colony. Her life takes a dramatic turn when she encounters Nyaan, a war refugee, who introduces her to the underground world of mobile suit combat, known as “Clan Battles”. Amate, under the alias “Machu,” begins to pilot the mysterious GQuuuuuuX mobile suit. She quickly becomes embroiled in the dangerous world of mechanized combat where the stakes are high and battles are fought for money and survival. In this brutal sport, the winner is determined by destroying the head of their opponent’s mobile suit. Adding to the complexity of the story, an unidentified Gundam mobile suit appears, pursued by both the space force and the police, along with its pilot, a boy named Shuji. The narrative explores themes of conflict, identity, and the impact of war on individuals.
Kenshi Yonezu’s “Plazma”
The theatrical release of Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- will feature Kenshi Yonezu’s new song, “Plazma,” as its theme song. Yonezu, well-known for his music in My Hero Academia (“Peace Sign”) and Chainsaw Man (“KICK BACK”), revealed the song during his 2025 tour, “Kenshi Yonezu 2025 TOUR / JUNK” on January 9th. The song’s debut in the trailer has already captivated many listeners. The music is expected to reflect the anime’s intensity and emotional depth. A new artist photo of Yonezu has also been released in conjunction with the song announcement.
Theatrical Release Details
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX -Beginning- is not the full series, but a compiled version of select episodes, serving as a special theatrical premiere. This pre-release will be screened in 426 theaters across Japan, including 52 IMAX locations, starting on January 17, 2025. This event will offer fans a sneak peek at the new anime, allowing them to experience the action and drama on the big screen before the series’ eventual television debut.
Gundam Model Kit
Adding to the excitement, a new HG (High Grade) 1/144 scale model kit of the GQuuuuuuX mobile suit has been released. The model is designed by Ikuto Yamashita, and it incorporates a unique aesthetic that blends tradition with innovation. The model kit is a highly anticipated collectible, featuring the iconic red, white, yellow, and blue colors typically associated with Gundam’s main mecha. The GQuuuuuuX is equipped with a heat hawk, a long-range weapon, and a blade. The release date for the model is set for January 2025 with a price tag of 2200 yen.
Clan Battles and Setting
The anime introduces a unique concept with “Clan Battles.” These are illegal mobile suit combat tournaments where pilots fight for money and survival. The battles take place on a space colony, which seems peaceful on the surface, but is a setting of great conflict and where the combatants face the possibility of death. The series is set in an alternate timeline from the Universal Century, offering a new take on the Gundam universe.
Anticipation and Fan Reception
The announcement of Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX has generated a considerable buzz among Gundam fans and anime enthusiasts. The series is one of the major Gundam projects planned by Bandai Namco Filmworks annually from 2025 through 2029, marking a significant push for the franchise. The combination of experienced creative minds, innovative designs, and the involvement of Kenshi Yonezu has built anticipation for the anime’s release. The early theatrical release is expected to draw large audiences and further amplify the excitement for the full series, which is set to begin at a later date that has yet to be announced. The first look at the anime and the GQuuuuuuX mobile suit has already impressed many, demonstrating a unique design that is both familiar and innovative. As the release date draws closer, fans are eagerly awaiting to see if this newest installment will become the next classic in the Gundam saga.
