The announcement of Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuuuX generated rumors about the role of Hideaki Anno, known for his work on Neon Genesis Evangelion. However, recent statements confirmed that the creative director of this project will be Kazuya Tsurumaki, a close collaborator of Anno, which has refocused expectations about this new installment of the iconic Gundam franchise.
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuuuX: Hideaki Anno is not at the helm
Ever since Bandai Namco announced the highly anticipated Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuuuX, fans of the franchise and specialized media have not stopped speculating about Hideaki Anno’s involvement. Recognized as the creator of Neon Genesis Evangelion, Anno is an influential figure in the anime world, and his name in the credits as co-writer sparked a wave of rumors about his role in the project. However, recent statements have clarified his limited involvement in this new installment of the legendary Gundam saga.
Mecha designer Ikuto Yamashita, who also collaborates on Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, used his personal account on the X/Twitter social network to put speculation to rest. “Director Kazuya Tsurumaki will make all the decisions for Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuuuX,” he wrote. Yamashita explained that while Anno may occasionally step in to offer support, his involvement does not go beyond what is strictly necessary.
Somewhat ironically, Yamashita added: “Since Anno is the president of Khara, he reviews things as they progress. We are trying to delay the release of updates as much as possible to avoid last-minute meddling.”
Kazuya Tsurumaki, now at the helm of this new Gundam instalment, is widely recognised as a protégé of Hideaki Anno. His career began as an assistant director on Neon Genesis Evangelion under Gainax production, and his directorial debut came with the groundbreaking and acclaimed anime FLCL.
Since then, Tsurumaki has directed other notable projects such as Diebuster and the Rebuild of Evangelion films produced by Khara. His creative approach, which combines striking visuals and unconventional storytelling, has generated high expectations for his contribution to the Gundam universe.
With a title that has already piqued curiosity, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuuuX promises a unique approach to the long-running franchise. While plot details remain under wraps, Tsurumaki’s leadership and track record in experimental projects suggest that this instalment could bring a fresh and different vision.
The Japanese TV premiere of the series is scheduled for 2024, but before that, a movie titled Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuuuX -Beginning- will be released, which will compile edited episodes. This movie will debut in Japan on 17 January 2025, generating even more anticipation among fans waiting to see what direction this new Gundam venture will take.
Meanwhile, Yamashita’s comments about Anno’s ‘possible meddling’ have added a touch of humour to the situation, reminding everyone of the Evangelion creator’s passion for getting involved in projects. However, it seems that this time the real creative weight will fall in Tsurumaki’s hands, leaving fans eager to find out how he will shape this new story within the Gundam universe.
With the confirmation of Kazuya Tsurumaki as creative lead, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX marks a new era for the franchise, which is looking to renew itself without losing its classic essence. While Hideaki Anno remains on the sidelines, the team behind the project seems determined to deliver something unique, drawing on Tsurumaki’s experimental style and experience. We can only wait for the premiere to find out if this combination of talent will win over both long-time fans and a new generation of followers.
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