Gundam Wing Manga Re-Releases Explore the Lost Stories of Gundam Wing

Countless volumes of the Mobile Suit Gundam manga have been released over the years, many based on the classic Universal Century timeline. Now, fans can revisit the alternate universe of Gundam Wing with the re-release of two prequel manga, bridging gaps in the anime’s storyline.

New Mobile Report Gundam Wing served as an entry point for many Western fans into the franchise and was also popular in Japan. The re-releases, published by Gakken in Japan, come one year after the anime celebrated its 30th anniversary, demonstrating continued interest in this alternate timeline.

Exploring the Prequels

The two manga volumes being re-released are different types of prequels. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing Blind Target Collector’s Edition, written and drawn by Sakura Asagi and Akemi Omode, is set between the end of the Gundam Wing anime and the OVA movie sequel, Gundam Wing: Endless Waltz. It follows Wing Gundam pilot Heero Yuy and his allies as they face a new enemy faction.

Mobile Suit Gundam Wing Episode Zero Collector’s Edition, written and drawn by Akira Kanbe and Katsuyuki Sumisawa, takes place before the main anime and focuses on the five Gundam pilots. The epilogue is set after Endless Waltz and centers on the relationship between Heero and Relena Peacecraft.

Availability and Legacy

Both manga volumes feature new cover imagery from their respective artists. They are currently available in Japanese from various retailers, with Blind Target priced around US$8 and Episode Zero costing approximately US$9. As of now, there is no word on an international release, but the growing popularity of the Gundam franchise may make it a possibility.

Gundam Wing was the first anime in the franchise to be localized in the West, earning it a nostalgic place in the hearts of many fans from the original “Toonami” generation.