The prequel manga mini-series Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis EVE, a story leading into the Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis manga, is set to conclude on May 26, 2025. This marks the end of Hiyon Katsuragi and Reiji Kaitō’s collaborative work on this particular Gundam series within Kadokawa’s Gundam Ace magazine.
A Prequel’s Journey
Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis EVE launched in January 2023, serving as an introduction to the world and characters of the Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis manga. Kadokawa published the first compiled book volume in September 2023, followed by the third volume on September 25, 2024. The manga focuses on Serrana Karn, the younger sister of Haman Karn, and her efforts to revive Zeon.
The Original Valpurgis Manga
Katsuragi and Kaitō originally launched the Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis manga in Gundam Ace in August 2017. However, its “chapter 0” was initially distributed through an event within the Super Gundam Royale game. The series was initially slated to end in October 2019, but it continued past that point, eventually concluding in November 2022. Kadokawa published the ten compiled book volumes between March 2018 and December 2022.
Set in UC 0089, Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis centers on Mashiro Oaks, a high school student who becomes embroiled in conflict after playing an old video game called Valpurgis Night.
Gundam Ace Magazine
Gundam Ace is a monthly Japanese manga magazine dedicated to the Gundam franchise. Published by Kadokawa Shoten, it features various Gundam manga series, including spin-offs and adaptations of the anime. The magazine is known for providing in-depth coverage of the Gundam universe, appealing to long-time fans and newcomers alike. The June 2025 issue of Gundam Ace revealed that Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis EVE would end in the following issue, set to release on May 26.
The May 2025 issue of Gundam Ace included a special feature commemorating the reprint of the Mobile Suit Gundam novel. Other features included Mobile Suit Gundam F90 Cluster, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, and a discussion on the history of Japanese robots with Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, Kunio Okawara, Go Nagai, and Haruka Takachiho.
Other Gundam Manga
While Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis EVE is concluding, other Gundam manga series continue to captivate audiences. Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt is entering its final arc, promising an epic conclusion to its storyline. Mobile Suit Gundam Eight, a new manga title, is scheduled to begin serialization in the August 2025 issue of Gundam Ace, offering a unique post-apocalyptic tale.
What to Expect From the Final Installment
The final chapter of Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis EVE will likely tie up loose ends and provide a bridge to the original Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis storyline. Readers can anticipate a resolution to Serrana Karn’s ambitions and a glimpse into the events that set the stage for Mashiro Oaks’s journey.
Reception and Legacy
Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis and its prequel have garnered attention for their unique take on the Gundam universe. The series delves into themes of legacy, identity, and the consequences of war, resonating with fans who appreciate the deeper narratives within the Gundam franchise. While opinions vary, the series has sparked discussions and contributed to the rich tapestry of Gundam lore.
Other Gundam News
The Gundam franchise continues to expand with new anime, manga, and model kits. Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, the latest anime series, has gained attention for its unique characters and storyline. Mobile Suit Gundam Eight is launching a new timeline in the Gundam saga.
Final Thoughts
The conclusion of Mobile Suit Gundam Valpurgis EVE marks the end of a chapter in the Gundam universe, but it also opens the door for new stories and adventures. Fans can look forward to the final installment on May 26, as well as the many other Gundam projects on the horizon.