Gundam Unicorn Review by P-Rex Hobby

Introduction to Gundam Unicorn

Imagine a universe where colossal robots take center stage, piloted by humans and reflecting the age-old battles of good and evil. Sounds intriguing? Welcome to the world of Gundam Unicorn. This review delves deep into the aspects that make this series unique and how it stands out in the vast Gundam universe.

Background of the Series

The Gundam series has long been a staple in the mecha anime genre. Gundam Unicorn, officially known as "Mobile Suit Gundam Unicorn," is a novel adaptation turned OVA (Original Video Animation) that was released between 2010 and 2014. Set in the Universal Century timeline, it focuses on events that transpire in U.C. 0096, three years after the events of "Mobile Suit Gundam: Char's Counterattack".

Characters and Development

Banagher Links

Banagher, our protagonist, undergoes significant development as the series progresses. From a naive schoolboy to a decisive Gundam pilot, his journey forms the core of the narrative. He encounters the enigmatic Audrey Burne, setting off a series of events that change him forever.

Audrey Burne

Audrey, a mysterious young woman, brings with her a tale of political intrigue and personal growth. While her connections to the Zeon remnants are clear, her role in the story provides depth and complexity to the overall narrative.

The Aesthetic and Animation

The animation in Gundam Unicorn is nothing short of breathtaking. The attention to detail, especially in the mecha designs, reflects the dedication of the creators. It's akin to watching poetry in motion – where metal clashes and colors explode. The fluidity of the battles is a sight to behold.

The Storyline

The series delves deep into the ideas of war, understanding, and reconciliation. With its nuanced take on the longstanding conflicts in the Gundam universe, it offers fresh perspectives on age-old themes. It's like comparing two sides of a coin – each has its own story to tell.

The Conflict and Resolution

At its heart, Gundam Unicorn revolves around the quest for the "Laplace's Box," an object of immense power and significance. As various factions vie for control, the story unravels, leading to unexpected alliances and heart-wrenching betrayals.

Mobile Suits and Technology

No Gundam review is complete without discussing the mobile suits, right? Gundam Unicorn introduces us to some stellar designs, from the iconic RX-0 Unicorn Gundam with its psychoframe technology to the Sinanju, piloted by the enigmatic Full Frontal. The blend of old-school designs with futuristic concepts is simply mesmerizing.

Soundtrack and Audio

The audio-visual experience of Gundam Unicorn is amplified by its impeccable soundtrack. Remember the chills when hearing "RE:I AM" by Aimer or "StarRingChild" during pivotal moments? It's like adding the perfect seasoning to an already delectable dish.

The Impact on the Gundam Franchise

Gundam Unicorn has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the Gundam series. Not only has it revived interest in the Universal Century timeline, but it also set a benchmark for storytelling, animation, and character development in subsequent series.

Comparisons with Other Gundam Series

While every Gundam series has its own flavor, Gundam Unicorn stands out for its depth and complexity. Unlike the black and white narrative in some of the other series, Unicorn delves into the gray areas, making the audience question their own beliefs.

Personal Thoughts and Impressions

What Stood Out?

The blend of traditional Gundam elements with fresh narrative twists was the highlight. There were moments of sheer awe, especially during the transformation sequences of the Unicorn Gundam.

Room for Improvement

While the series is stellar, the pacing felt a tad slow in certain episodes. A tighter narrative could have added more punch to an already powerful story.

Conclusion

Gundam Unicorn is a masterpiece in the Gundam franchise. With its intricate storyline, breathtaking visuals, and memorable characters, it's a must-watch for any anime enthusiast. Whether you're a die-hard Gundam fan or a newbie, Unicorn offers an experience that is both nostalgic and novel.

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• Bandai MG 1/100 Unicorn Gundam 02 Banshee "Gundam UC"
• Bandai 1/144 HGUC RX-0 Unicorn Gundam (Destroy Mode)
• Bandai RG 1/144 #25 Unicorn Gundam Full Psycho-Frame Prototype
• Bandai HGUC #175 1/144 Unicorn Gundam 02 Banshee Norn
• Bandai MG 1/100 RX-0 Unicorn Gundam 02 Banshee Ver.Ka

FAQs

1. Where does Gundam Unicorn fit in the Gundam timeline?

   • It's set in the Universal Century timeline, particularly U.C. 0096.

2. Is it necessary to watch previous Gundam series before Unicorn?

   • While it helps to have background knowledge, Gundam Unicorn can be enjoyed as a standalone series.

3. How many episodes are there in Gundam Unicorn?

   • There are 7 OVA episodes.

4. Who is the main antagonist in the series?

   • The series presents multiple antagonists, but Full Frontal is one of the primary adversaries.

5. Is there a sequel to Gundam Unicorn?

   • "Mobile Suit Gundam Narrative," released in 2018, is considered a direct sequel to Gundam Unicorn.