In 2023, after a seven-year hiatus, Mobile Suit Gundam made a comeback with The Witch from Mercury, marking the fifteenth mainline entry in the franchise. This new animated series offers a fresh take on the Gundam universe, set outside of the Universal Century timeline and introducing viewers to the new “Ad Stella” continuity.
A Focus on Characters and Themes
Unlike some of its predecessors, The Witch from Mercury places a strong emphasis on the characters within the story and explores themes of war, loss, and sacrifice. The conflicts in this series are not just about battles between mobile suits, but also involve struggles between corporations, space colonists, and those living on Earth. This shift in focus allows for a deeper exploration of the impact of war on individuals and societies.
One of the standout features of The Witch from Mercury is the introduction of unique mobile suits and the engaging cast of characters that inhabit this world. The series offers a mix of Shakespearian tragedies, anti-capitalist themes, and of course, giant robots. The storytelling is enhanced by slick animation and compelling narratives that draw viewers in and keep them invested in the story.
Fans of the series can now preorder both seasons of The Witch from Mercury on Blu-ray from the Crunchyroll Store, with a 25% discount available for early orders. Each season comes in a steelbook case featuring a character and their mobile suit on the cover. However, the bonus features are somewhat limited, with only promo videos and clean credit sequences included on the discs. Despite this, the high-quality steelbook cases and artwork add to the appeal of these releases.
For those interested in exploring other Gundam series, Amazon offers deals on additional Blu-rays. Iron-Blooded Orphans delves into the story of child soldiers piloting mobile suits, while The 08th MS Team follows a group of Gundam support crew members navigating the challenges of jungle warfare. These series offer a different perspective on the Gundam universe and are worth exploring for fans looking to expand their collection.
Overall, the return of Mobile Suit Gundam with The Witch from Mercury promises to captivate audiences with its compelling characters, unique themes, and engaging storytelling. Whether you’re a longtime fan of the franchise or new to the world of Gundam, this series offers something for everyone to enjoy.
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