Yasuo Ohtagaki’s Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt, a gritty and jazz-infused manga set within the Universal Century timeline, is drawing to a close. After more than a decade of serialization, the acclaimed series is set to conclude in just eight chapters, marking the end of an era for fans of its unique take on the Gundam universe.
The End is Nigh: Eight Chapters to Go
Ohtagaki himself confirmed the news on X/Twitter on Thursday, coinciding with the release of the manga’s 222nd chapter in Big Comic Superior magazine on Friday, June 13, 2025. This chapter also marked the series’ return from a three-month hiatus, making the announcement of its impending conclusion all the more poignant.
The official tweet included a video message from Ohtagaki, further emphasizing the significance of this final arc. This direct communication with fans underscores the personal connection the creator feels with his audience after such a long and dedicated run.
A Long and Winding Road: Thunderbolt‘s Journey
Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt debuted in Shogakukan’s Big Comic Superior in March 2012. The series quickly gained traction for its compelling characters, intense combat sequences, and its distinctive visual style, characterized by a level of detail rarely seen in manga. Unlike many Gundam stories focused on hope and overcoming adversity, Thunderbolt explores the brutal realities of war, often depicting the psychological toll it takes on soldiers on both sides of the conflict.
Setting the Stage: The One Year War
The manga is set during and after the One Year War (UC 0079), the same period as the original Mobile Suit Gundam anime. However, Thunderbolt carves out its own narrative within this established timeline, focusing on the battles within the “Thunderbolt Sector,” a debris-filled shoal area near a destroyed space colony. This environment becomes a haunting backdrop for the deadly clashes between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon.
Two Sides of the Same Coin: Io Fleming vs. Daryl Lorenz
At the heart of Thunderbolt lies the rivalry between two ace pilots: Io Fleming of the Earth Federation and Daryl Lorenz of the Principality of Zeon. Both characters are haunted by their pasts and driven by their experiences in the war.
- Io Fleming: A talented and often reckless pilot, Io commands the Federation’s experimental Full Armor Gundam. He is a jazz enthusiast, often playing music during combat to focus his mind.
- Daryl Lorenz: A Zeon sniper and a veteran of the Living Dead Division, Daryl pilots the Psycho Zaku, a mobile suit designed for soldiers who have lost limbs. He carries an old-fashioned radio that plays pop oldies, a stark contrast to the futuristic setting.
Their confrontations are not merely battles of mechanical skill but also clashes of ideology and personal conviction. They represent the human cost of war and the enduring hatred that can arise from it.
Hiatus and Health Concerns: The Road to the Final Arc
The journey of Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt has not been without its challenges. In September 2018, Ohtagaki placed the manga on hiatus due to tenosynovitis, a painful condition affecting the tendons in his hand. When the series resumed in December 2018, Ohtagaki revealed that he would need to adjust his drawing style to avoid further aggravating his condition.
Despite these health concerns, Ohtagaki remained committed to telling his story. In February 2022, the 19th volume indicated that the manga had entered its “final stage”. However, Ohtagaki later clarified at an exhibition for the manga’s 10th anniversary that he intended to continue the series for another five to six years.
In March 2025, it was announced that the manga would go on another hiatus until June 13, 2025, before beginning its final arc. The 26th compiled book volume, which shipped on May 29, 2025, officially marked the start of this final chapter.
A Legacy of Innovation: Thunderbolt‘s Impact
Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt has left a lasting impact on the Gundam franchise and the manga world. Its success has led to:
- Two Original Net Anime (ONA) Series: The manga was adapted into two ONA series, each of which was later compiled into a film. These adaptations brought the intense action and compelling story of Thunderbolt to a wider audience.
- Critical Acclaim: The series has been praised for its mature themes, complex characters, and stunning visuals. It has been recognized as a standout entry in the Gundam universe.
- International Recognition: Viz Media has been publishing the manga in English, making it accessible to fans worldwide.
The Final Countdown: What to Expect
With only eight chapters remaining, fans are eagerly anticipating the conclusion of Io and Daryl’s epic rivalry. The final arc promises to be filled with intense battles, emotional moments, and perhaps even a glimmer of hope amidst the darkness of war.
Possible storylines and questions to be answered:
- Will Io and Daryl finally settle their score?
- What will become of the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon remnants?
- Can either side truly escape the cycle of violence?
- Will there be any survivors who find peace after the war?
Whatever the outcome, the ending of Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt is sure to be a momentous occasion for Gundam fans around the globe. As the final chapters unfold, readers will undoubtedly reflect on the series’ powerful themes, memorable characters, and its unique contribution to the Gundam legacy. The lightning-streaked debris fields are about to witness their final, devastating ballet of destruction.
