A new “experimental video” for the venerable 1982 mecha anime Blue Gale Xabungle, titled “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE R,” is set to debut this fall, featuring a brand-new song from the popular idol unit Hōkago Climax Girls of The IDOLM@STER Shiny Colors. This upcoming release is the latest endeavor from Bandai Namco Filmworks’ innovative “Sunrise Robot Laboratory” initiative, aiming to breathe new life into classic Sunrise robot anime through modern reinterpretation.
A New Era for a Mecha Classic
The announcement of “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE R” marks a significant event for fans of the original Combat Mecha Xabungle, a series that first aired from 1982 to 1983 under the direction of the legendary Yoshiyuki Tomino, known for his work on Mobile Suit Gundam. The anime tells the story of Jiron Amos on the desolate planet Zora, where civilian crimes are forgiven if the perpetrator evades justice for three days. Jiron, driven by a quest for revenge against his parents’ murderer, takes matters into his own hands, often disrupting the established order and stealing the titular mecha, Xabungle, to pursue his goals.
The “Sunrise Robot Laboratory” is a pioneering project by Bandai Namco Filmworks established to explore and advance the legacy of Sunrise’s iconic robot anime. The initiative leverages modern animation techniques and creative direction to reinterpret these beloved works, presenting them to contemporary audiences while honoring their original spirit. This new “SIDE R” video is a continuation of this ambitious project, building upon the foundations laid by previous experimental videos.
The “Side R” Approach: Reimagination and Collaboration
“BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE R” follows the earlier release of “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L” in May 2025. While “SIDE L” videos typically focus on faithfully reproducing classic opening sequences and familiar scenes with updated animation technology, the “SIDE R” designation indicates a different approach. These videos are designed to reimagine and recontextualize elements of the original anime, potentially introducing new design elements and, notably, new theme songs.
For “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L,” the directorial reins were held by Junpei Mizusaki, known for his work on Batman Ninja. The video also saw the return of Banjō Ginga, the original narrator of Blue Gale Xabungle, who provided fresh narration, connecting the past with the present. The collaboration extended to Kamikaze Douga, a studio recognized for its distinctive animation style, which partnered with Bandai Namco Filmworks on the “SIDE L” production.
The inclusion of Hōkago Climax Girls from The IDOLM@STER Shiny Colors for the “SIDE R” video’s new song signifies a unique cross-franchise collaboration. This blend of classic mecha action with contemporary idol music aims to “reinterpret” the original anime in an entirely new way, appealing to a broader audience that spans traditional anime fans and enthusiasts of the idol genre. The IDOLM@STER franchise, which debuted in 2005 as an arcade game, has grown into a multimedia phenomenon encompassing numerous games, anime series, and music releases, featuring a diverse cast of prospective pop idols. Hōkago Climax Girls is one of the popular idol units stemming from the Shiny Colors game.
Precedent: The Aura Battler Dunbine Experimental Videos
The “Sunrise Robot Laboratory” previously demonstrated its vision with “experimental videos” for another Yoshiyuki Tomino classic, Aura Battler Dunbine. The “AURA BATTLER DUNBINE SIDE L” video premiered in May 2024, followed by “AURA BATTLER DUNBINE SIDE R” in November 2024. These videos similarly incorporated new footage and modern animation techniques to evoke and reimagine the original series’ sequences, setting a precedent for the approach taken with Xabungle. The Dunbine “SIDE R” video notably introduced new mecha and weapon designs and featured a new theme song, “Remaining Story,” specifically composed for the video by MindaRyn. This prior success suggests a promising outlook for how “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE R” will creatively expand upon its source material.
The Broader Impact and Future of Classic Anime
The “Sunrise Robot Laboratory” initiative, through projects like the Xabungle and Dunbine experimental videos, represents a significant trend in the anime industry: the strategic re-engagement with classic titles using modern technology and collaborative efforts. These “experimental videos” not only serve as a nostalgic treat for long-time fans but also act as a gateway for new generations to discover the rich history of Japanese animation. By reinterpreting beloved mecha designs and narratives with fresh perspectives, these projects help to keep the cultural relevance of these seminal works alive and thriving.
As “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE R” prepares for its fall release, the anticipation among fans is palpable. The fusion of Xabungle‘s gritty post-apocalyptic setting and iconic “Walker Machines” with the vibrant, pop-infused sound of The IDOLM@STER Shiny Colors promises a unique and potentially groundbreaking reinterpretation, signaling a dynamic future for classic anime franchises.
