A new trailer for Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans Urðr-Hunt – Path of the Little Challenger has revealed an all-new short anime film titled “Makuai no Kusabi” (Kusabi of the Interlude), which will screen alongside the main feature. This new short commemorates the 10th anniversary of the Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans series and features the return of beloved characters Mikazuki Augus and Orga Itsuka. The double feature is set to premiere theatrically in Japan on October 31, 2025, with a North American release also planned.
“Makuai no Kusabi”: A Bridge Between Seasons
The newly announced short film, “Makuai no Kusabi,” is set to bridge the narrative gap between the first and second seasons of the original Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans television series. Its story will explore Tekkadan’s growing reputation in the Outer Sphere following their successful escort mission for Kudelia Aina Bernstein. As the organization expands, the short will delve into Orga Itsuka’s struggles with his evolving responsibilities as a leader, prompting the group to undertake a new, self-initiated plan.
Returning Staff and Cast for the Anniversary Short
Fans will be pleased to know that key creative personnel from the original Iron-Blooded Orphans series are returning for “Makuai no Kusabi.” This includes director Tatsuyuki Nagai, screenwriter Mari Okada, and character designer Michinori Chiba. Mechanical designs are credited to Naohiro Washio and Kanetake Ebikawa, with music by Masaru Yokoyama. Sunrise is producing the animation.
Furthermore, the original voice actors, Kengo Kawanishi and Yoshimasa Hosoya, will reprise their roles as Mikazuki Augus and Orga Itsuka, respectively. This ensures continuity and familiarity for long-time viewers.
Urðr Hunt – Path of the Little Challenger Theatrical Adaptation
“Makuai no Kusabi” will be screened alongside Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans Urðr-Hunt – Path of the Little Challenger, which is a special compilation film. This compilation adapts the Urðr-Hunt mobile game into an anime format for the first time. The Urðr-Hunt game, which previously debuted within the Kidō Senshi Gundam: Tekketsu no Orphans G app in November 2022, featured 12 episodes of anime footage. The app ceased service in January 2024.
The Urðr-Hunt storyline introduces a new protagonist, Wistario Afam, a young man from the Radonitsa Colony near Venus, and features the Gundam Hajiroboshi. The theatrical release of Path of the Little Challenger is part of a larger 10th-anniversary project for the Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans franchise.
Release Details and Anticipation
Advance tickets (MoviTicke) for the double feature will go on sale in Japan starting August 8, 2025. While the Japanese premiere is confirmed for October 31, 2025, details regarding the planned North American release will be announced at a later date. The announcement has generated significant excitement among fans, particularly given the return of popular characters and the expansion of the Iron-Blooded Orphans narrative.
