The Mobile Suit Gundam: Red Giant 03rd MS Team manga series will officially conclude with the release of its fifth compiled volume. The final volume marks the end of the manga adaptation within the larger multimedia project launched by Bandai Spirits.
The Journey of Gundam: Red Giant 03rd MS Team
The Mobile Suit Gundam: Red Giant 03rd MS Team manga, known in Japanese as Kidou Senshi Gundam – Aka 03 Kyosei, began serialization in Gundam Ace magazine. The series is part of a “large-scale interlocking project” that includes a cockpit-type tactical arcade game (Mobile Suit Gundam Senjō no Kizuna II) and Gunpla (Gundam plastic models).
The manga is written by Ejiri Tatsuma and features art by Kansai Ryouji. The first volume was released in September 2023. The story is set in Universal Century 0079, during the final stages of the One Year War in December, following the Battle of Jaburo. It focuses on the Zeon army’s “Wandering Group” as they retreat to space, encountering a Federation Forces unit known as the “Red Three Giants” (or “Red Tri-Stars”).
Key Themes and Characters
The series introduces unique elements and a distinct tone compared to traditional Gundam narratives. The “Red Three Giants” unit, consisting of characters like Maraba, Ralph, and others, operates with a degree of freedom in customizing their Mobile Suits, thanks to a civilian subcontractor group. This allows for more unconventional Mobile Suit designs within the Universal Century timeline.
The character writing has been described as more “loose” and “anime-feeling,” with protagonists like Maraba being a “Mecha otaku” who dreams of fighting Char Aznable. This lighthearted approach differentiates it from the often more serious tone of other Gundam spin-offs focusing on the One Year War, providing a fresh perspective on the conflict. The series has also featured unusual elements, such as a group of ninjas named the Ozdaha.
The Multimedia Project’s Scope
The Red Giant 03rd MS Team project was first announced in May 2022 as a comprehensive initiative by Bandai Spirits. The Gunpla for the Red Giant 03rd MS Team was even exhibited at the 60th Shizuoka Hobby Show. This integrated approach across manga, games, and models aimed to immerse fans in the new narrative and its unique Mobile Suit designs.
The conclusion of the manga in its fifth volume signifies a wrap-up for this particular storytelling avenue within the broader Red Giant 03rd MS Team universe. Fans can look forward to completing their collection and experiencing the full arc of this distinctive Gundam story.
