Gundam's Next Evolution: NEW Series Assembles Dream Team of Creators
Gundam fans have something big to look forward to! Japanese publisher Kadokawa has revealed a brand-new Gundam manga titled Mobile Suit Gundam Eight. It will be featured in the Gundam Ace magazine and officially begin publication on June 26, 2025. This new manga is written by Hajime Kamoshida, known for his work on Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans and Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai. The manga is illustrated by Shuei Takagi, the artist behind Mobile Suit Gundam Battle Operation Code Fairy.
Gundam Eight was originally announced back in 2021 to celebrate the 20th anniversary of Gundam Ace magazine. Now, fans are finally getting a first look at the series, including the new Gundam design and its main protagonist. While not much of the story has been revealed yet, the manga will take place in the year 2030, in a version of Earth that’s completely separate from all other Gundam timelines. Here’s the twist: only 258 humans are left on Earth, and there’s just one Gundam in existence.
Along with the manga launch, a brand-new High-Grade (HG) model kit featuring Gundam will also be released.
This series continues Gundam’s long and unique relationship with manga. Unlike many anime franchises that start as manga first, Gundam usually begins as an anime and later releases manga versions or spin-offs. For example, Mobile Suit Gundam: The Origin was a manga adaptation of the original anime, while Iron-Blooded Orphans – Gekko served as a spin-off.
Some Gundam stories, like Crossbone Gundam, were created purely as manga and went on to become fan favorites. Crossbone Gundam expanded the universe of Gundam F91 and became so popular it led to several sequels and popular model kits.
Another manga-original title, Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt, became well-known for its deep story and unique jazz soundtrack when it was later adapted into an anime. Though its manga has had delays, it's now nearing its final arc.
With Mobile Suit Gundam Eight, Kadokawa is once again pushing the boundaries of the Gundam universe. A new world, a mysterious Gundam, and a nearly extinct humanity—all set the stage for a fresh and exciting story.