Bandai Namco Filmworks is teasing fans with a new anime project based on the classic 1982 series, Blue Gale Xabungle. An “experimental video” titled “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L” is set to premiere in May, sparking excitement among fans of the original mecha anime.
What to Expect from the New Xabungle Project
“BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L” Experimental Video
The new “experimental video,” “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L,” is scheduled to premiere in May, offering a fresh take on the beloved series. This project aims to capture the spirit of the original while exploring new creative avenues.
Hobby Japan Tie-In
In addition to the video, Bandai Namco Filmworks announced a tie-in serialized feature that will launch in Hobby Japan’s Monthly Hobby Japan magazine on April 25. This feature will likely provide additional background, character insights, and technical details related to the new project.
About Combat Mecha Xabungle
Setting and Story
Combat Mecha Xabungle, also known as Blue Gale Xabungle, is a mecha anime television series created by Sunrise and directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino. The story unfolds on the planet Zola, a world divided into distinct cultures, primarily the technologically advanced Innocent and the adaptable Civilians.
Key Elements of the Original Series:
- Walker Machines: Ubiquitous vehicles with humanoid silhouettes used for various purposes, including mining, transportation, construction, and combat.
- Jiron Amos: A young Civilian seeking revenge for his parents’ murder, leading him to steal a Xabungle-type Walker Machine.
- Conflict: Jiron’s quest for vengeance escalates into a larger conflict between the Civilians and the ruling Innocent.
Themes and Style
Xabungle is known for its unique blend of genres, combining elements of:
- Mecha: Featuring iconic Walker Machines and intense combat sequences.
- Sci-Fi: Set on a post-apocalyptic planet with advanced technology and societal divisions.
- Comedy: Incorporating humor and slapstick elements into the narrative.
- Western: Drawing inspiration from the Wild West with its lawless landscapes and roaming bandits.
Production and Legacy
Combat Mecha Xabungle aired from February 6, 1982, to January 29, 1983, on Nagoya TV and TV Asahi networks. Promotional toys were produced by Clover, adding to the series’ popularity. A compilation movie, Xabungle Graffiti, was released with a new ending.
The series has left a lasting impact on the mecha anime genre and is remembered for its distinctive characters, engaging storyline, and unique blend of genres. Yoshiyuki Tomino, the director, is also known for creating Mobile Suit Gundam, further solidifying Xabungle’s place in anime history.
Why This Matters
Reviving a Cult Classic
The announcement of a new Xabungle project is significant because it revisits a cult classic that has maintained a dedicated fanbase over the years. The experimental video and tie-in serialized feature offer an opportunity to reintroduce the series to a new generation of viewers while satisfying long-time fans’ nostalgia.
Bandai Namco Filmworks’ Robot Laboratory
The project, developed under Sunrise Robot Laboratory, highlights Bandai Namco Filmworks’ commitment to exploring and revitalizing its rich library of mecha anime properties. This initiative could pave the way for similar projects based on other classic series in the future.
Potential Impact on the Mecha Genre
The revival of Xabungle could potentially influence the mecha genre by bringing back its unique blend of action, comedy, and social commentary. It may also inspire other creators to revisit classic series and reimagine them for modern audiences.
More About Bandai Namco Filmworks
Bandai Namco Filmworks, formerly known as Sunrise, is a renowned Japanese animation studio and production company. As a subsidiary of Bandai Namco Holdings, the studio has been responsible for creating numerous iconic anime series, including:
- Mobile Suit Gundam
- Space Runaway Ideon
- Aura Battler Dunbine
- Cowboy Bebop
- Code Geass
The studio’s contributions to the anime industry have been widely recognized, with many of its works receiving prestigious awards and accolades.
Combat Mecha Xabungle: A Deeper Dive
Planet Zola and its Inhabitants
The planet Zola, the setting for Combat Mecha Xabungle, is a harsh and desolate world with a Wild West-like atmosphere. The planet is inhabited by two main groups:
- The Innocent: An advanced and mysterious culture that lives in domed cities, possessing superior technology and controlling most of the planet’s resources.
- The Civilians: A hardy and adaptable group that lives in the wilderness, often resorting to banditry and scavenging to survive.
The Three-Day Rule
One of the unique aspects of Zola’s society is the “three-day rule,” which dictates that any crime committed by a Civilian is forgiven if they are not brought to justice within three days. This rule adds a sense of urgency and chaos to the series, as characters often race against time to seek revenge or escape punishment.
Main Characters
- Jiron Amos: The protagonist, a hot-headed and determined Civilian seeking revenge for the murder of his parents. He steals the Xabungle Walker Machine and becomes entangled in a larger conflict.
- Elchi Cargo: The daughter of a wealthy merchant, initially kidnapped by Jiron but eventually becomes sympathetic to his cause and joins his fight against the Innocent.
- Rag: A member of the Sandrats, a group of bandits who assist Jiron in his quest.
- Timp Sharon: The villainous outlaw who murdered Jiron’s parents and serves as a recurring antagonist throughout the series.
Walker Machines: The Heart of the Series
Walker Machines are the primary mode of transportation and combat on Zola. These humanoid-shaped vehicles are used for various purposes, from construction and mining to warfare. The Xabungle is a particularly powerful and rare Walker Machine, making it a valuable asset in the hands of Jiron and his allies.
Cultural Impact and Merchandise
Combat Mecha Xabungle has spawned a variety of merchandise, including:
- Model kits: Replicas of the Walker Machines, allowing fans to build and display their favorite mecha.
- Toys: Action figures and other toys based on the characters and vehicles from the series.
- Blu-ray releases: High-definition versions of the anime series, allowing fans to experience the show in the best possible quality.
Expertise Display: Yoshiyuki Tomino
Yoshiyuki Tomino is a highly influential figure in the anime industry, renowned for his work on groundbreaking series such as Mobile Suit Gundam and Combat Mecha Xabungle. His expertise lies in:
- Mecha Anime Direction: Tomino is known for his innovative approach to mecha anime, incorporating realistic elements, complex characters, and thought-provoking themes.
- World-Building: He creates immersive and detailed worlds with unique societies, technologies, and cultures.
- Character Development: Tomino’s characters are often flawed, conflicted, and undergo significant growth throughout his series.
- Social Commentary: His works often explore themes of war, social inequality, and the impact of technology on humanity.
Tomino’s unique vision and storytelling abilities have earned him a dedicated following and cemented his place as one of the most important figures in anime history.
Anticipating User Questions (People Also Ask)
- What is Combat Mecha Xabungle about?
- Combat Mecha Xabungle is a mecha anime series set on the planet Zola, where a young man named Jiron Amos seeks revenge for his parents’ murder, leading him into a conflict between the Civilians and the Innocent.
- Who created Combat Mecha Xabungle?
- The series was created by Sunrise and directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, who is also known for creating Mobile Suit Gundam.
- What are Walker Machines?
- Walker Machines are humanoid-shaped vehicles used for various purposes on the planet Zola, including transportation, construction, and combat.
- Where can I watch Combat Mecha Xabungle?
- Combat Mecha Xabungle has been streamed on platforms like HIDIVE.
- What is the significance of the “three-day rule” in Xabungle?
- The “three-day rule” is a unique aspect of Zola’s society, stating that any crime committed by a Civilian is forgiven if they are not brought to justice within three days.
- What is Bandai Namco Filmworks?
- Bandai Namco Filmworks, formerly known as Sunrise, is a Japanese animation studio and production company responsible for creating numerous iconic anime series.
- When will the new Xabungle video be released?
- The “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L” experimental video is scheduled to premiere in May.
Conclusion
The announcement of a new Xabungle anime project has generated excitement among fans of the classic mecha series. With its unique blend of genres, engaging characters, and thought-provoking themes, Combat Mecha Xabungle has left a lasting impact on the anime industry. The upcoming experimental video and tie-in serialized feature offer an opportunity to revisit this beloved series and introduce it to a new generation of viewers.
