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::: Mobile Suit Gundam Wing :::

By ~ Apollo

This series is a classic and probably one of the most well known series in anime period. The reason for this is first and foremost its quality. The second reason is its huge amount of exposure on both toonami and adult swim on cartoon network. The anime is known by most as a classic and deservedly so. If you want guaranteed quality for a series that is dramatic on the battlefield and off, then this show is for you.

The story takes place in year After Colony 175. Humanity is in a new age of technology and has even colonized space. Of course with expansion comes problems. Earth rules the colonies with an iron fist. After the assassination of one of the colonies' peaceful and most prominent leaders, the decision is made to pursue other means of liberation from Earth. Five brilliant rogue scientists create the Gundams. They are highly advanced mobile suits made of Gundanium Alloy, which is a material that is amazingly resilient, durable, rare, and can only be created in space. With these Gundams, five teenage pilots are sent to earth by the scientists in order to gain revenge for the colonies and fight for better world. The characters' emotions come through very well and there is much to be enjoyed in following each characters' personal story. The story is of course about war and we thankfully do not stray far from the main focus. The stuff with Heero and Relena is interesting, but it doesn't take over the story, which is a good thing. It is one the most memorable Gundam series out there if not the most memorable. You will come away fully satisfied after this intense ride is over.

The series was originally run in 1995 but the visuals are still really good. The battles are great and its fun to watch how each gundam uses its own unique style to its advantage. Another thing that impressed me was the expression and emotion on the characters' faces. When someone is pointing a gun at someone else, the expressions are really what help create the intensity and gravity of the situation. The fictional future world is very believable and has a very complete feel to it. Basically when you watch this series, it won't feel like your watching outdated material. This show captures everything that anime is about.

Gundam Wing is an immensely popular anime. After watching the first episode, it isn't hard to see why. It is very enjoyable and I recommend it for any lover of mature anime. It is a little long at 49 half hour episodes but it’s totally worth it. Go check it out. It's a guaranteed good time with tons of drama and action. What more do you need?

Grade: A