Best Gundam series ranked: Top 10+ must-watch anime classics

The best Gundam series have captivated anime fans worldwide for decades, combining epic battles, memorable characters, and iconic mobile suits into unforgettable stories. From the original Universal Century saga to thrilling Alternate Universe adventures, the franchise offers something for every viewer. To guide both newcomers and longtime fans, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10+ must-watch Gundam series that have defined the mecha genre. 

Dive in to explore the series that shaped anime history, discover your next favorite mobile suit, and get ready to binge-watch. For more detailed reviews, collectibles, and all things Gundam, visit Japan Figure.

1. Top 10+ best Gundam series of all time to binge-watch

To help you navigate this vast universe, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10+ best Gundam series of all time that every fan should binge-watch. For those curious about iconic mechas, guides like the most famous Gundam provide useful context before diving into specific shows.

• Top 1: Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam
• Top 2: Mobile Suit Gundam Wing
• Top 3: Mobile Suit Gundam SEED
• Top 4: Mobile Suit Gundam 00
• Top 5: Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans
• Top 6: Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket
• Top 7: Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team
• Top 8: Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack
• Top 9: Turn A Gundam
• Top 10: Mobile Fighter G Gundam

Top 1: Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam

Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam is the direct sequel to the original Mobile Suit Gundam, set in Universal Century 0087. It stands out for its darker tone, complex political narrative, and deep character conflicts, making it one of the most memorable entries in the franchise.

• Release Year: 1985
• Timeline: UC 0087
• Key Mobile Suit: Zeta Gundam, Hyaku Shiki, Methuss
• Iconic Mobile Suits: Zeta Gundam

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Top 2: Mobile Suit Gundam Wing

Set in the After Colony timeline, Mobile Suit Gundam Wing follows five Gundam pilots, each with their own personality and mission, fighting against oppression. This series helped popularize Gundam in the West thanks to its engaging story and iconic mobile suits. Fans also often debate which designs rank among the most powerful Gundam, making Wing an essential watch.

• Release Year: 1995
• Timeline: AC
• Key Mobile Suits: Wing Gundam, Deathscythe, Sandrock, Heavyarms, Shenlong
• Iconic Mobile Suits: Wing Gundam Zero

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Top 3: Mobile Suit Gundam SEED

Taking place in the Cosmic Era, Gundam SEED modernizes the classic story with vibrant animation and themes of genetic engineering, war, and personal conflict. Its emotional storytelling and standout mobile suits make it highly engaging.

• Release Year: 2002
• Timeline: Cosmic Era
• Key Mobile Suits: Strike Gundam, Freedom Gundam, Justice Gundam
• Iconic Mobile Suits: Freedom Gundam

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Top 4: Mobile Suit Gundam 00

Gundam 00 is set in the Anno Domini timeline and focuses on private military organizations striving to end global conflict. The series is praised for its mature themes, realistic geopolitical context, and dynamic mobile suits.

• Release Year: 2007
• Timeline: AD 2307
• Key Mobile Suits: Exia, Dynames, Kyrios, Virtue
• Iconic Mobile Suits: 00 Gundam

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Top 5: Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans

Set in the Post Disaster timeline, Iron-Blooded Orphans follows a group of child soldiers from Mars who form a private security company to fight for their freedom. The series is notable for its mature themes, including the exploitation of children in warfare, and its realistic portrayal of combat. The mobile suits, particularly the Barbatos, are designed with a rugged, industrial aesthetic that reflects the harsh realities of the world.

• Release Year: 2015
• Timeline: Post Disaster (PD)
• Key Mobile Suits: Barbatos, Graze, Flauros

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Top 6: Mobile Suit Gundam 0080: War in the Pocket

Gundam 0080 is an original video animation (OVA) that takes place during the One Year War in UC 0079. The story is told from the perspective of a young boy living in a neutral colony who becomes involved in the conflict when a Gundam is brought to his home. The series is praised for its emotional depth and its focus on the human cost of war, offering a personal and poignant narrative.

• Release Year: 1989
• Timeline: UC 0079
• Key Mobile Suits: Alex Gundam, Zaku II
• Iconic Mobile Suits: Alex Gundam

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Top 7: Mobile Suit Gundam: The 08th MS Team

Set during the One Year War in UC 0079, The 08th MS Team provides a ground-level view of the conflict, focusing on a squad of Federation soldiers operating in Southeast Asia. The series is noted for its realistic depiction of warfare and its exploration of the moral complexities faced by soldiers in combat. The mobile suits are designed to be more grounded and practical, reflecting the series' emphasis on realism.

• Release Year: 1996–1999
• Timeline: UC 0079
• Key Mobile Suits: Gundam Ez8, Gouf Custom
• Iconic Mobile Suits: Gundam Ez8

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Top 8: Mobile Suit Gundam: Char’s Counterattack

Char’s Counterattack is a 1988 film that serves as the conclusion to the original Gundam saga, bringing closure to the long-standing rivalry between Amuro Ray and Char Aznable. Set in UC 0093, the film features intense space battles and explores themes of ideology and the future of humanity. The mobile suits, particularly the Nu Gundam and Sazabi, are designed with advanced technology and are central to the film's dramatic confrontations.

• Release Year: 1988
• Timeline: UC 0093
• Key Mobile Suits: Nu Gundam, Sazabi
• Iconic Mobile Suits: Nu Gundam

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Top 9: Turn A Gundam

Turn A Gundam is a 1999 series that presents a unique take on the Gundam franchise, set in the Correct Century timeline. The series is known for its philosophical themes, exploring the cyclical nature of history and the relationship between technology and society. The Turn A Gundam itself features a distinctive design, with a mustache motif that sets it apart from other mobile suits in the franchise.

• Release Year: 1999
• Timeline: Correct Century
• Key Mobile Suits: Turn A Gundam, Turn X
• Iconic Mobile Suits: Turn A Gundam

Top 10: Mobile Fighter G Gundam

Mobile Fighter G Gundam is a 1994 Japanese animated television series produced by Sunrise and the fifth installment in the long-running Gundam franchise. Unlike previous series set in the "Universal Century" timeline, G Gundam takes place in an alternate "Future Century" universe. 

In this timeline, much of humanity has abandoned a ruined Earth to live in space colonies. To avoid wars, each country sends a representative fighter piloting a Gundam to Earth for an 11-month tournament. The winner earns the right to rule the Earth for the next four years. For fans intrigued by unusual storylines and character-driven arcs, guides such as Gundam Gquuuuuux characters provide extra depth.

• Release Year: 1994
• Timeline: Future Century
• Key Mobile Suits: Shining Gundam, God Gundam, Devil Gundam
• Iconic Mobile Suits: Shining Gundam, God Gundam

2. Why are Gundam series making hits around the world?

Gundam series have grown from a niche Japanese anime to a global phenomenon, largely thanks to the rise of international streaming platforms. Services like Netflix, Crunchyroll, and Amazon Prime have made it easier than ever for fans worldwide to access both classic and modern Gundam series. This global accessibility allows new audiences to explore the franchise’s rich history and storylines without language or geographic barriers, fueling interest across continents.

Beyond accessibility, Gundam has a unique ability to capture fans’ imaginations through a combination of compelling storytelling, detailed mecha designs, and complex characters. Fans are drawn not only to the epic battles and futuristic technology but also to the personal and political struggles depicted in each series. The blend of science fiction, human drama, and intricate plotlines resonates with viewers of all ages, keeping long-time fans engaged while attracting new ones.

• Gundam = mix of sci-fi, war drama, and personal stories – Each series balances large-scale conflict with emotional character arcs, appealing to both casual viewers and die-hard anime fans.
• Figures/Gunpla culture boosts popularity – Collectible models, or Gunpla, provide a hands-on way for fans to engage with their favorite series, bridging the gap between watching and participating in the Gundam universe.
• New generations engage through merchandising + esports – Beyond physical models, mobile games, online tournaments, and merchandise introduce younger fans to the franchise, ensuring its continued cultural relevance worldwide.

This combination of accessibility, storytelling depth, and interactive fan culture explains why Gundam series continue to thrive and expand their global audience.

3. How to watch the best Gundam series in order?

The Gundam franchise spans multiple timelines, the two main ones being Universal Century (UC) and Alternate Universe (AU). The UC timeline is the original continuity, starting with Mobile Suit Gundam in UC 0079, and it focuses on political intrigue, war, and the ongoing conflict between the Earth Federation and Zeon. 

The AU timeline, on the other hand, includes series like Gundam Wing, Gundam SEED, and Iron-Blooded Orphans, which reimagine Gundam concepts in entirely new settings, often with modern animation and storytelling styles.

UC Timeline Order: For fans who want to experience the original Gundam saga in chronological order:

Mobile Suit Gundam → Zeta Gundam → Char’s Counterattack → Gundam Unicorn
This path provides a comprehensive understanding of the classic storyline, the rivalry between Amuro Ray and Char Aznable, and the evolution of mobile suit technology.

AU Timeline Highlights

Alternate Universe series are perfect for newcomers or those looking for standalone stories:

• Gundam Wing – Accessible for beginners and widely popular internationally
• Gundam SEED – A modern reboot feel with emotional storytelling and updated animation
• Iron-Blooded Orphans – Gritty realism with intense mecha combat and emotional depth

Modern Gateway

For new viewers seeking a fresh entry point, The Witch from Mercury offers a female lead and contemporary themes, making it an approachable starting point without needing prior knowledge of previous series.

Quick Recommendations for Beginners:

• Short on time? Start with Wing or SEED
• Love deep lore? Begin with the original UC timeline
• Want the newest? Watch The Witch from Mercury first

This structured approach allows both new and longtime fans to enjoy Gundam according to their interests, whether they prefer classic storytelling, standalone adventures, or modern narratives.

4. FAQs - People also ask about the best Gundam series

Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about the Gundam series, helping fans navigate the franchise more easily.

4.1 What is the best Gundam series?

The “best” Gundam series can vary by taste, but Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam, Gundam Wing, and Gundam SEED are often cited as top choices due to their compelling stories, iconic mobile suits, and lasting impact on fans worldwide.

4.2 How many Gundam series are there?

As of 2025, there are over 50 Gundam series, including TV shows, OVAs, and films across multiple timelines like Universal Century (UC) and Alternate Universe (AU). The franchise continues to expand with new releases and spin-offs.

4.3 What Gundam series should I start with?

Beginners can start with Gundam Wing or Gundam SEED for accessible storytelling, Iron-Blooded Orphans for gritty realism, or The Witch from Mercury for a modern, fresh perspective. Fans interested in deep lore should begin with the original UC timeline.

4.4 Is Gundam 00 the best Gundam series?

Gundam 00 is widely praised for its mature themes, realistic geopolitics, and strong character development, making it one of the most acclaimed AU series. While some fans rank it among the best, it depends on whether you prefer Alternate Universe stories or classic Universal Century plots.

4.5 What is the most controversial Gundam series?

Mobile Fighter G Gundam is often considered controversial due to its departure from traditional Gundam themes, focusing on martial arts tournaments and over-the-top action rather than war drama, which divided longtime fans but gained a cult following.

In summary, the best Gundam series offer a rich mix of epic battles, compelling characters, and unforgettable mobile suits that have captured the hearts of fans around the world. Exploring these top 10+ series not only provides hours of entertainment but also opens the door to the wider Gundam universe, including Gunpla, collectibles, and fan communities. Start your Gundam journey today, binge-watch your favorites, and dive deeper into the world of mecha anime with all the resources and exclusive content available at Japan Figure.