Bandai Namco Filmworks has released a new “experimental video” based on Yoshiyuki Tomino’s 1982 anime series, Blue Gale Xabungle. The video, titled “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L,” premiered in May on the Sunrise YouTube channel and is part of the Sunrise Robot Laboratory project.
What is the Sunrise Robot Laboratory?
Launched on May 8, 2024, by Bandai Namco Filmworks, the Sunrise Robot Laboratory aims to study and explore Sunrise mechanics from various perspectives. It showcases robots from Sunrise works to communicate the appeal of Japanese anime culture to the world.
“BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L”
This new experimental video revisits the classic 1982-1983 TV anime series, Blue Gale Xabungle. It recreates memorable scenes using modern technology and features the original opening and ending themes performed by Akira Kushida. Bandai Namco Filmworks and Kamikaze Douga collaborated on this project, following their previous work on “AURA BATTLER DUNBINE SIDE R”.
Junpei Mizusaki of Kamikaze Douga, the director, producer, and creative producer, commented on the video: He highlighted the lawless nature of Xabungle‘s world and how the unique designs and sizes of the Walker Machines contribute to this feeling. The video incorporates exciting scenes, such as the battle on top of the battleship in episode 12 and the fight between battleships in episode 43, using CG to offer new perspectives while preserving the original atmosphere.
Akira Kushida, who sang the theme song, shared his emotions: He expressed that after more than 40 years, it feels like Jiron is saying, “I’m back.” “Shippuu Xabunguru” was his first anime song, and the intro brings back memories of the story. He believes that fans from back then will be overwhelmed with emotion and that new viewers will appreciate the greatness of the Showa era work.
Story of Blue Gale Xabungle
Blue Gale Xabungle is set on the planet Zora, where two societies exist: the Innocent and the Civilians. The story follows Jiron Amos, who seeks revenge for the murder of his parents. However, in this world, Civilian crimes are forgiven if not brought to justice within three days. Jiron takes matters into his own hands, stealing the Xabungle mecha and joining the Sandrats, a group of bandits. His actions spark a rebellion against the Innocent. The anime series also led to the film Xabungle Graffiti in 1983.
Tie-in with Hobby Japan
In addition to the video, Bandai Namco Filmworks announced a collaboration with Monthly Hobby Japan magazine. Starting April 25, the magazine will feature a special serialization related to Xabungle SIDE L, expanding the anime’s universe for collectors and mecha design enthusiasts.
Free Episodes on YouTube
To celebrate the release of the experimental video, episodes 12, 26, and 41 of Combat Mecha Xabungle are available for free on the Sunrise Channel from May 15 to June 1.
Where to Watch
HIDIVE began streaming the Xabungle anime in 2017.
A Creative Showcase
This video marks the second major installment in the Sunrise Robot Laboratory project, following the release of “AURA BATTLER DUNBINE SIDE L” in May 2024 and “AURA BATTLER DUNBINE SIDE R” in November 2024.
The “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L” clip is also being showcased at the 63rd Shizuoka Hobby Show, which is held on May 14, 2025.
