Yasuo Ohtagaki’s critically acclaimed Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt manga officially concluded its 13-year run on September 26, 2025, with the publication of its final chapter in Shogakukan’s Big Comic Superior magazine. The same issue of the popular seinen magazine also announced that Ohtagaki plans to launch a brand new manga series next summer.
The End of a 13-Year Saga
The final chapter of Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt, titled “Deployment! Thunderbolt Gundam,” spanned 24 full-color pages, marking the culmination of a series that began serialization in March 2012. The manga, known for its intense depiction of the One Year War, concluded after 26 compiled volumes, with the 27th and final volume slated for release on December 19, 2025.
The series garnered immense popularity, selling over 5.5 million copies and inspiring two original net anime (ONA) series, which were later compiled into feature films. Gundam Thunderbolt presented a distinctive “world line” within the Universal Century era, focusing on the brutal battles between ace pilots of the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon within the perilous “Thunderbolt Sector.”
Challenges and Commitment During Serialization
Throughout its extensive run, Ohtagaki faced health challenges. In September 2018, the manga went on hiatus due to the author’s tenosynovitis, an inflammation affecting his dominant left hand. Upon its return in December 2018, Ohtagaki acknowledged that he would need to adapt his drawing style to manage his condition, a testament to his dedication to the series. Despite these difficulties, Ohtagaki had expressed an intention to continue the manga for another five to six years back in 2022, underscoring his long-term vision for the Gundam Thunderbolt narrative.
Looking Ahead: A New Manga in 2026
With Gundam Thunderbolt now complete, fans won’t have to wait long for Ohtagaki’s next project. The announcement in Big Comic Superior confirms his intention to debut a new manga in the magazine in the summer of 2026. Further details regarding the theme, genre, or specific launch date of the upcoming series are expected to be revealed at a later time.
Commemorative Events for Fans
To commemorate the conclusion of Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt and the release of its final volume, special events are planned for December. A screening of the animated film “Mobile Suit Gundam Thunderbolt DECEMBER SKY” will be held on December 19, 2025, at Shinjuku Piccadilly in Tokyo. The event will feature appearances by Yasuo Ohtagaki himself and Naohiro Ogata, a producer from Bandai Namco Filmworks who worked on the anime adaptations. Additionally, a fan meeting with Ohtagaki is scheduled for December 20, 2025, at LOFT9 Shibuya, offering fans a unique opportunity to engage with the celebrated manga artist.
