A groundbreaking crossover manga, titled Zoids x Patlabor -Code Name B.U.D.D.Y.-, has officially launched, bringing together two beloved mecha franchises. The series, penned by Naoto Tsushima, debuted on IMAGICA Infos’ Hero Comics website on Saturday, August 30, 2025.
The highly anticipated collaboration sees the mechanical beast Hunter Wolf from the Zoids universe transported into the world of Patlabor, where it will join forces with the new Ingram Mark III Labor to protect Tokyo.
Hunter Wolf Enters the Patlabor Universe
The narrative of Zoids x Patlabor -Code Name B.U.D.D.Y.- centers around the unexpected arrival of the Zoid Hunter Wolf in the Patlabor universe. This event sets the stage for a unique partnership as the intelligent mechanical creature works alongside the iconic Patlabor units of the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Department to safeguard the city. The story explores a scenario where a Zoids core integrates into the Patlabor world, leading to a new coexistence between humans and Zoids. While Zoids are initially seen as non-hostile and intelligent, the plot also hints at the potential for military exploitation and illicit trafficking of these powerful machines in conflict zones, adding a layer of complexity to their integration.
Celebrating Franchise Anniversaries
This crossover manga is part of a larger celebratory project marking significant milestones for both franchises. The collaboration honors the 40th anniversary of Zoids and the 35th anniversary of Patlabor. Prior to the manga’s launch, the crossover was teased with the release of a special model kit: the “Hunter Wolf Metropolitan Police Force Version,” which hit shelves in June 2024. This model kit, alongside the announcement of the Ingram Mark III, set the stage for the Code Name B.U.D.D.Y. project, affectionately dubbed “ZoiPat” by fans.
The Creative Force Behind the Crossover
Manga artist Naoto Tsushima, known for his work on various Transformers manga titles, takes the helm for this exciting new series, marking his first involvement with both the Zoids and Patlabor franchises. The project has also seen input from key staff members who previously contributed to the Patlabor series, including character designer Akemi Takada and scenario writer Kazunori Itō. Mechanical designer Hidetaka Denjin, who created the box art for the AV-98 Ingram Moderoid model kit, is also involved.
The launch of Zoids x Patlabor -Code Name B.U.D.D.Y.- offers fans of both franchises a fresh perspective on their beloved mecha worlds, combining the unique characteristics and lore of Zoids with the grounded, police procedural elements of Patlabor.
