The world of Gundam is about to expand with the launch of a brand-new manga series, “Mobile Suit Gundam Eight,” promising a fresh perspective on the iconic mecha franchise. Kadokawa’s Gundam Ace magazine is set to serialize this alternative universe story, and fans are eagerly awaiting its debut. Here’s what we know about this exciting new addition to the Gundam universe.
Gundam Ace Unveils “Mobile Suit Gundam Eight”
Kadokawa’s Gundam Ace magazine, a monthly Japanese shōnen manga magazine heavily focused on the Gundam franchise, has officially announced the launch of “Mobile Suit Gundam Eight” (Kidō Senshi Gundam Eight). The announcement came in the June 2025 issue, revealing that the manga will be a new alternative series within the Gundam franchise. This reveal marks the culmination of a project initially teased in September 2021 as part of Gundam Ace’s 20th-anniversary celebration.
Gundam Ace started as a quarterly publication from 2001 to 2002, moved to a bi-monthly publication in 2003, and in 2004 it became a monthly publication. The magazine contains news on upcoming Gundam series and merchandise, and often includes giveaways to promote current Gundam works.
The Creative Team Behind the Manga
The creative forces behind “Mobile Suit Gundam Eight” are Hajime Kamoshida and Shuei Takagi, both veterans in the anime and manga industry.
Hajime Kamoshida
Hajime Kamoshida is credited with the story of “Mobile Suit Gundam Eight.” He is best known for his work as a scriptwriter on “Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans” and the spinoff manga “Tekketsu no Orphans Gekkō.” Kamoshida is also the creator of the popular “Rascal Does Not Dream of Bunny Girl Senpai” series, showcasing his talent for character-driven narratives with emotional depth.
Shuei Takagi
Shuei Takagi is responsible for the artwork of “Mobile Suit Gundam Eight.” He is recognized for his recent work on the “Mobile Suit Gundam: Battle Operation Code Fairy” manga adaptation. Takagi’s experience in bringing mecha and character designs to life will be crucial in shaping the visual identity of the new series.
Kanekotsu
The striking design of the lead mobile suit, known as the Gundam Zilius, was created by mecha designer Kanekotsu.
A Post-Apocalyptic Setting
“Mobile Suit Gundam Eight” is set in the year 2030 in a devastated world. The story takes place in an alternate timeline, separate from the familiar Universal Century and other established Gundam timelines. Earth, once envisioned as entering an era of prosperity through advancements in science and biotechnology, now teeters on the brink of collapse. Only 258 survivors remain, along with a single Gundam. This sets the stage for a narrative focused on survival, political conflict, and emotional dilemmas.
A New Gundam Universe
The magazine initially announced the manga in September 2021 as part of Gundam Ace ‘s 20th anniversary project. At the time, the manga was listed as “coming soon.” In the original announcement, the magazine teased that the manga would have a similar direction to Gundam 00 in that there would be a new generation and world different from Gundam: The Origin and Gundam UC .
Story and Themes
The series promises an intense plot filled with drama, political conflicts, and emotional dilemmas. With Kamoshida’s background in character-driven stories and Takagi’s artistic talent, “Mobile Suit Gundam Eight” is expected to offer a rich and engaging narrative for both veteran and new Gundam fans.
Premise
In the Eternal Calendar Year 2030, Earth is slipping from humanity’s grasp. The relentless march of science and technology, and the mastery of biotechnology, were supposed to free humanity from conflict and usher in an age of prosperity. Instead, only a few survivors remain, with just one Gundam left.
Gundam Zilius
At the center of the story is Gundam Zilius, a heavily armored machine built to endure a dying world. The design of the lead mobile suit was created by mecha designer Kanekotsu.
Release Date
“Mobile Suit Gundam Eight” is scheduled to begin serialization in the August 2025 issue of Gundam Ace magazine, which will be on sale in Japan in June.
Other Gundam Projects
The Mobile Suit Gundam franchise is currently experiencing a new wave of global popularity.
New Anime
Recently, Amazon Prime Video started streaming the new Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX anime with a same-day English dub.
Live-Action Film
There’s also plenty of hype surrounding a planned live-action film.
Hathaway’s Flash Sequel
A sequel to “Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway” is also in the works.
Gundam’s Enduring Legacy
With its intense, post-apocalyptic premise and the striking visual design of Gundam Zilius at its core, “Mobile Suit Gundam Eight” seems poised to carry that momentum forward. With Gundam expanding its reach to new audiences through recent projects like “The Witch from Mercury” and “GQuuuuuuX,” “Mobile Suit Gundam Eight” looks ready to define the next chapter in Gundam’s enduring legacy.
