Bandai Namco Filmworks has released a new “experimental video” titled “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE R,” bringing a modern reinterpretation to the classic 1982 mecha anime, Combat Mecha Xabungle. This latest installment in the Sunrise Robot Laboratory project notably features a collaboration with Houkago Climax Girls, an idol unit from THE iDOLM@STER SHINY COLORS, performing the new theme song “Ranburu”. The video was made public on November 13, 2025.
Reimagining a Classic: The Sunrise Robot Laboratory Initiative
The “Sunrise Robot Laboratory” is an ongoing initiative by Bandai Namco Filmworks (formerly Sunrise) to give new life to its extensive library of classic mecha anime through collaborations and modern CG videos. The project aims to study and speculate on Sunrise’s mechanical designs from various perspectives, communicating the appeal of Japanese anime culture worldwide. This initiative has previously seen an “experimental video” for Aura Battler Dunbine.
The “Side L” and “Side R” Approach
The “experimental video” series adopts different approaches to recontextualize and reimagine elements of the original anime. Earlier this year, in May, the “BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE L” video was released. The “L” in “Side L” stands for “Legacy” and “Legend,” and that video focused on reproducing the original opening and familiar scenes with modern animation technology, blending classic footage with new CG elements.
“BLUE GALE XABUNGLE SIDE R,” on the other hand, is driven by younger creators with a focus on “reinterpreting from a different perspective”. This approach highlights the vitality and robust action elements of the original Combat Mecha Xabungle, a Western-style robot anime known for its lively action set on the desolate planet Zora.
A Unique Collaboration: Xabungle Meets Idolm@ster
A significant aspect of the “Side R” video is its unexpected crossover with THE iDOLM@STER SHINY COLORS. The idol unit Houkago Climax Girls provides the new theme song, “Ranburu,” composed and arranged by the melodic hardcore band TOTALFAT. This isn’t the first time Idolm@ster has had a connection with Xabungle, as there were previous official Idolm@ster covers of various Sunrise mecha opening themes, including “Shippuu Xabungle”. The collaboration aims to infuse the high-energy, full-throttle singing voices of the idols with the dynamic, Western-themed robot anime.
Creative Direction and Vision
Junpei Mizusaki of Kamikaze Douga, who served as director, producer, and creative producer for the “Side L” video, commented on the challenges and goals of these experimental projects. The team aims to maintain the atmosphere of the original Xabungle series while discovering new things by utilizing the unique perspectives CG animation can provide, such as dynamic camera angles in battles. The “Side R” video specifically targets viewers new to Xabungle, focusing on the comicality of its plot and movements, and its appealing robots and characters, rather than complex settings or human drama. The goal is to create a visually enjoyable work that captures the spirited movement of the Xabungle mecha.
The Legacy of Combat Mecha Xabungle
Combat Mecha Xabungle, originally known as Blue Gale Xabungle in Japan, premiered in 1982. Directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, the creator of Mobile Suit Gundam, the series is set on the lawless planet Zora and features protagonist Jiron Amos in his quest for revenge, often involving a variety of gasoline-powered “Walker Machines”. The anime is notable for its comedic tone and chaotic fight scenes, which the new experimental videos aim to emulate and update. A compilation movie, Xabungle Graffiti, was released in 1983.
These experimental videos serve not only as a nostalgic trip for long-time fans but also as a bridge to introduce these classic works to a new generation, leveraging modern animation techniques and unexpected cross-promotions.
