Highlights
Gundam 00 has the best Gundam lineup in the franchise due to its highly specialized mobile suits, unlike the jack-of-all-trade Gundams in other series.
The Gundams in Gundam 00 possess a utilitarian design that emphasizes practicality and combat functionality, without compromising aesthetics.
Every individual Gundam in Gundam 00 is assigned a unique role and specialization, evident in their distinctive designs and capabilities, thus enabling them to excel in various warfare situations or conflicts.
Each major Gundam series boasts a collection of exclusive and iconic mobile suits. While the spotlight often shines on the main Gundam, the accompanying Gundams also possess unique attributes that set them apart and make them unforgettable.
However, when reflecting on the multitude of Gundam series and the diverse range of Gundams featured in each, none can rival the superior lineup of Gundam 00. It is bold to claim that Gundam 00 possesses the most exceptional assembly of Gundams in the extensive history of the franchise. Here, we present the reasons why.
Highly Specialized Gundams
In most series, especially in the main Gundam, the Gundams are designed to be versatile and capable in many different areas. It makes sense considering they are the most advanced mobile suits in the universe, so it's not common to see many of them around.
Their ability to handle various situations without much assistance is another advantage of their versatile nature. From the RX-78-2 in the original Mobile Suit Gundam to the Gundam Aerial in The Witch from Mercury, this is a consistent theme among many Gundams in different major series.
Gundam 00, however, offers a fresh approach. Unlike previous series, all four Gundams in this series are developed simultaneously, each specializing in a different field. This is because a single advanced mobile suit alone cannot effectively carry out indiscriminate armed interventions. Therefore, it is logical to create a specialized group consisting of distinct Gundams capable of undertaking various missions and executing diverse military tactics.
Apart from upgrades and different versions of the same Gundam, Gundam 00 showcases a lineup of four uniquely specialized Gundams. First, there is Gundam Exia, specializing in close-quarter combat. Next is Gundam Kyrios, geared towards high-mobility and aerial combat. Then there is Gundam Dynames, excelling in stealth and long-range attacks. Finally, there is Gundam Virtue, specialized in heavy artillery. Together, this formidable team can effectively handle any mission and intervene in all types of warfare and armed conflicts.
Utilitarian Design
Each major Gundam series has its own unique style of Gundam, with some featuring unusual designs like Mobile Fighter G Gundam's Gundams, while others have sleek and modern designs like those in The Witch from Mercury. When considering the entire franchise, the emphasis is typically on style rather than practicality or real-world functionality.
For example, the Wing Gundam Zero has feather-like wings that serve no practical purpose other than to give it a majestic appearance. This style-first approach can be observed in nearly every major Gundam series, and there is nothing inherently wrong with it. As fans, we also crave incredible and awe-inspiring Gundam designs.
Gundam 00, on the other hand, adopts an entirely different approach. The design of the Gundams is tailored to their specialized nature, with a utilitarian emphasis on practical functionality rather than mere style. Rest assured, they still possess a visually striking and aesthetically pleasing appearance, but it is evident that the creators of these Gundams place greater importance on their combat capabilities and roles, rather than solely focusing on their cool factor.
The Gundams of Gundam 00
The reason behind Exia's compact body, limbs, and joints is its enhanced agility and flexibility, making it an exceptional close-range combatant. Rather than the conventional backpack and skirt armor, Exia is outfitted with an array of melee weapons. On the other hand, Kyrios stands out as the slimmest Gundam in the series, prioritizing lightness for its role as a highly mobile mobile suit. Its aerodynamic design grants Kyrios exceptional flight maneuverability.
In contrast to the versatile Gundams found in other major series, the Gundams in Gundam 00 (Exia, Dynames, Kyrios, and Virtue) are designed with unique and defined roles. Dynames, for instance, is equipped with an ultra long-range sniper rifle and large shields for protection. This allows it to take careful aim at its targets while maintaining safety. On the other hand, Gundam Virtue has a sizable body and limbs capable of carrying various armaments such as missiles and cannons. While its bulky design limits its mobility, its immense firepower compensates for this drawback.
These specialized designs and capabilities of the Gundams in Gundam 00 enable them to effectively intervene in any war or armed conflict. Their distinct roles and functionalities are evident in their appearances and powers. Such a utilitarian and tactical approach to their development is why Gundam 00 showcases the finest lineup of Gundams in the history of the franchise.
Gundam 00 is available to stream on Crunchyroll.