In the far-flung future three hundred years from now, humanity has exploited the last of its fossil fuel resources and has constructed a massive solar array around the planet. Three coalitions rise during this time to control the construction and maintenance of the solar array and to act as gatekeepers to its near-limitless power: The Union (Lead by the USA), The Human Reform League (A Sino-Russian joint venture), and the AEU (The former European Union). Various conflicts brew between these coalitions as further conflicts smolder in the last oil-producing countries across the world.
One day a mysterious organization makes itself known by attacking key facilities of these coalitions using advanced Mobile Suit technology known as ‘Gundam’. The organization announces itself as Celestial Being, using an over 200-year-old recording of a famed scientist to do so. He claims Celestial Being will bring an end to the war through military intervention. Is this oxymoronic vow their true intention, or are there political drives they dare not reveal?
Mobile Suit Gundam 00 is named for its place as a prologue for the Mobile Suit Gundam series. Several dozen films and series have been produced in the Gundam universe since its release in the late 70s. While many Gundam series use elements of Space Opera, Gundam 00 is more focused on sci-fi technology and world-building. On top of this, there are a dozen major and side plotlines with intense political drama and several plot twists.
Fans of drama, Sci-Fi, Mecha, action, and war stories will find a lot of good content in this series. It does have a few drawbacks: being from the 00s there is some unnecessary ‘fan service’ involving the female crew members in revealing swimwear, more recap episodes than you need, and the translation for the dub often leaves a lot to be desired. Fans of Anime will often forgive these issues if there is enough plot and character development.
Mobile Suit Gundam 00 delivers on the Sci-Fi Mecha elements and plot, and most of the character development is very interesting, especially the parts revolving around the ethical implications of super soldiers and child soldiers. Teens will enjoy the action and fans of the Gundam universe will enjoy this dive into the series’ history. Recommended.
Where does this series belong on public library shelves?
Mobile Suit Gundam 00 would be a great addition to Anime shelves. Action, Mecha, or Sci-Fi fiction sections could benefit from the addition of this series as well.