Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans

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Alternative Titles

English: Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans

Synonyms: Kidou Senshi Gundam: Tekketsu no Orphans, G-Tekketsu

Japanese: 機動戦士ガンダム鉄血のオルフェンズ

Information

Type: TV

Episodes: 25

Status: Finished Airing

Aired: Oct 4, 2015 to Mar 27, 2016

Premiered: Fall 2015

Broadcast: Sundays at 17:00 (JST)

Producers: Sotsu, Asatsu DK, Mainichi Broadcasting System

Licensors: Funimation

Studios: Sunrise

Source: Original

Genres: Action, Drama, Mecha, Sci-Fi, Space

Duration: 24 min. per ep.

Rating: R - 17+ (violence & profanity)

Statistics

Score: 8.02¹ (scored by 82,399 users)

¹ indicates a weighted score.

Ranked: #520²

² based on the top anime page. Please note that 'Not yet aired' and 'R18+' titles are excluded.

Popularity: #899

Members: 167,110

Favorites: 2,293

8.02

Ranked #520Popularity #899Members 167,110

Fall 2015TVSunrise

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Episodes: /25

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Synopsis

Over three hundred years have passed since the Calamity War, the great conflict between Earth and its outer space colonies. Now Earth is ruled over by four economic blocs, and the military organization Gjallarhorn is responsible for keeping the peace. Mars, on the other hand, depends heavily on Earth's economy.

Horrified by the appalling living conditions that Mars' inhabitants have to bear, Kudelia Aina Bernstein, a young aristocrat from the Chryse Autonomous Region, gets involved in the Red Planet's independence movement. She hires the services of a local company, Chryse Guard Security (CGS), to escort her on the journey to Earth to negotiate economic conditions with the earthly bloc that controls the region. The Third Army Division—consisting of Mikazuki Augus, Orga Itsuka, and many other child soldiers—are chosen to protect her.

When Gjallarhorn attacks the CGS facilities to assassinate the young revolutionary threatening their interests, Orga and his comrades must not let the attackers accomplish their goal—in fact, Gjallarhorn's actions might turn out to be the unintentional catalyst that leads the children to be the forgers of their own destiny.

[Written by MAL Rewrite]

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Episode Videos

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Related Anime

Adaptation:	Kidou Senshi Gundam: Tekketsu no Orphans
Other:	Mobile Suit Gundam
Sequel:	Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans 2nd Season, Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans - Urðr Hunt

More characters

Characters & Voice Actors

Augus, Mikazuki

Main

Kawanishi, Kengo
Japanese

Itsuka, Orga

Main

Hosoya, Yoshimasa
Japanese

Bernstein, Kudelia Aina

Main

Terasaki, Yuka
Japanese

Fareed, McGillis

Supporting

Sakurai, Takahiro
Japanese

Mixta, Atra

Supporting

Kanemoto, Hisako
Japanese

Altland, Akihiro

Supporting

Takumi, Yasuaki
Japanese

Frankland, Lafter

Supporting

Hikasa, Yoko
Japanese

Bauduin, Gaelio

Supporting

Matsukaze, Masaya
Japanese

Shino, Norba

Supporting

Murata, Taishi
Japanese

Griffon, Biscuit

Supporting

Hanae, Natsuki
Japanese

More staff

Staff

Nagai, Tatsuyuki

Director, Episode Director, Storyboard

Aketagawa, Jin

Sound Director

Yamato, Naomichi

Episode Director

Okada, Mari

Script, Series Composition

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Opening Theme

#1: "Raise your flag" by MAN WITH A MISSION (eps 2-13)
#2: "Survivor" by BLUE ENCOUNT (eps 14-25)

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Ending Theme

#1: "Raise your flag" by MAN WITH A MISSION (ep 1)
#2: "Orphans no Namida (オルフェンズの涙)" by MISIA (eps 2-13, 21)
#3: "Steel: Tekketsu no Kizuna (STEEL-鉄血の絆-)" by TRUE (eps 14-18, 20, 22-25)
#4: "Senka no Tomoshibi (戦火の灯火)" by Yuko Suzuhana (ep 19)

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Reviews

Mar 27, 2016

25 of 25 episodes seen

Overall Rating: 8

Stark700 (All reviews)

196 people found this review helpful

The Gundam franchise is a massive universe. As another installment, there can be a lot of optimism for Iron-Blooded Orphans. I have to admit, getting into this show at first made me nervous. Some of the recent Gundam related series such as Gundam AGE and Gundam: G no Reconguista received very mixed reception. Furthermore, Iron-Blooded Orphans is spearheaded by Mari Okada, a director who is well-known for adding in melodrama into the story. But for this show, I can safely say that it’s definitely something worth investing time into whether you’re a fan of Gundam or not.

For timeline purposes, the show takes place after the Calamity War, a war between Earth and Outer colonies. Actually, make that 300+ years. A major conflict involves Mars and its city Chryse. The people there seek independence from the government and make their own lives into something better. A young Martian woman named Kudelia Aina Bernstein hopes to secure independence. Her role in the story becomes more complicated as she gets involved with a group known as the Tekkadan, whom is entrusted to protect her life. So begins this story that leads politics, warfare, and a world of internal conflicts. As the show’s catch phrase, this is “the sustenance of life is on the battlefield."

In context, the show is a war story but also deals with a variety of real life issues. From poverty to child soldiers and imperialism, the show really offers a lot of insightful concepts. There’s even themes of experimentation as certain characters are fit with the Alaya-Vijnana System (Whiskers) to enhance their fighting abilities. Still, the show constructs a story that expands beyond just fighting a war for independence but also takes a look at the interpersonal conflicts of people in its universe. At the heart of it, we have members of the Tekkadan. Led by Orga Itsuka, the show capitalizes on their role to protect Aina. Their ace pilot, Mikazuki Augus (also known as Mika) pilots the mysterious mobile suit known as Barbartos. Throughout the show, we see his piloting and combat skills including his role to fight off Gjallarhorn, an Earth Military organization set up to capture Aina. Tekkadan also consists of other members including Biscuit Griffin (a strategist), Eugene Stark (former leader of the third army’s division), Norba Shino, Akihiro Atland, Atra Mixta, among others. What’s interesting about this group is that although they all come from different backgrounds, they are all united with similar purposes and treats each other like family. The family theme extends to not just the group but also Aina as she gets to know more of its core members. With such a colorful cast of characters, the show really can be appreciated for its characterization.

A good part of the story involves the journey Aina and Tekkadan takes in order to reach their goals. Part of it feels like a cat-and-mouse story while other parts are calmer with even has a feel of slice of life. In addition, the show also introduces others factions, some who later become valuable ally of Tekkadan while others are against them. Now I have to admit though, the story itself may feel like it has some pacing problems. A few of the episodes are non-combat related and some lacks development with the overall presentation of the story. However, it also emphasizes on the characters because they really are something special. The director and producers are aiming high for with this TV show so everything constructed has a purpose. The main characters has an iron will with their goals so a few of the episodes examines at their personal lives. Throughout their on-screen roles and background storytelling, we learn more about them especially Mika. He is an orphan with poor social skills but learns throughout the show with help from Aina. There’s a change about his character through his acquaintance with her as he becomes more casual and more interested in his own future. Their relationship even has a taste of romance in it as time goes on and this doesn’t seem like a surprise. Aina’s a kind woman who cares about others’ well-being above her own. She is also a good role model for the children through her ways of teaching them how to write, in particular Mika. This opens up his interest to forging his own future someday. Similarly, Mika’s relationship with Orga is strong. Their friendship has already been established during their childhood and it’s evident that the two would risk their lives to protect each other and their goals. Now I don’t expect everyone to like Aina’s role in the story. Despite her aristocratic status and selfless nature, she is still a bit naïve at times. And furthermore, her insecurity to provide help during crucial moments of fighting can be a bit irritating. Because of the nature of the show, expect other characters to relive moments from the past that resurfaces in the present storyline. A prime example is Akihiro as he deals with a blast from the past. On the other hand, there are also lighthearted relationships such as Mika and Atra. Some may see her involvement with him to almost be part of a love triangle. However, don’t expect this show to be a love story. It’s still an iron-blooded war tale. In retrospect, the show really has an iron blood with its story and characters.

When looking at the themes of the show, it’s easy to notice how much it has relations with the past, present, and future. The poverty of the past influences people to try and find a better future for themselves. The present has an emphasis on neo-colonism as we see advanced civilizations expand through funding and technology. For the future, Aina’s ambition to seek independence is a hopeful vision for her people. This is a bit contrast with Gjallarhorn. In essence, they are a military organization who seeks peace but pursuits them with violence means. Some of its core members such as McGillis Fareed, Gaelio Bauduin, Ein Dalton, and among others has their own ideologies. But one thing they seem to all share is strengthening their nation’s own relations and wealth. On the other hand, there’s also Teiwaz, a business conglomerate. Their relationship with Tekkadan also a similarity about family as their representative member forges a pact with Orga. The amount of relationships in this show is really special and something to take by heart. Whether you agree with their goals or ambitions, it’s important to understand why they fight. And this show is pretty damn good at making its point about that.

Produced by Sunrise, the show’s visual quality is a unique piece of work. Michinori Chiba is in charge of the character designs but visually looks a bit different compared to some of Gundam’s previous predecessors. I guess it feels like a fusion of Gundam 00 and Gundam AGE as the characters looks both childish and mature the same time. This is especially true with characters like Mika and Biscuit. Orga on the other hand has the look of a mature commander. Aina has more of the look of an aristocrat but can also look like a simple lady when she needs to be. Character visuals aren’t the only thing interesting about the artwork though. The universe of the show has colonies that shows wealth with its rich technology and weapons of war As such, it brings legitimacy to their statuses. From the mysterious Barbados to Teiwaz’s Saisei, everything looks crisp and establishes the studio’s effort to craft them as technological innovations. This is further enhanced by the solid action with a great amount of effort during fight scenes. Be amazed. This is a show that can be will leave strong memories even with its action.

At first, I wasn’t much of a fan of the music or soundtrack. But after watching a good amount of the show, it’s definitely something to take in by heart. Masaru Yokoyama clearly invested a good amount of effort into producing the music for various scenarios in the show. From melancholic moments to intense combat oriented moments waged in space, it has everything that a mecha fan can wish for. The OP song “Raise Your Flag” is also a way that symbolizes the fight for independence especially with its catchy tone and choreography. And finally, voice mannerism is impressive. Characters such as Orga shows their commanding presence while Mika is known for his cold personality.

Iron-Blooded Orphans is definitely a show to invest time in. Whether you’re a veteran or a causal viewer, the experience after watching this show will be memorable for its story, characters, themes, world-building, and powerful action. Characters’ actions all have purpose and the show offers a balanced way to showcase their motivations. I don’t expect everyone to like all the characters as some may find them less likeable than others. Still, this show is not to be underestimated and is a triumphant one at that. Watch it with an open mind and you’ll see why.

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Sep 27, 2020

25 of 25 episodes seen

Overall Rating: 6

cameronrb24 (All reviews)

47 people found this review helpful

Quick Thought:
It's a fairly enjoyable action anime.

Story:
The story is mainly about Tekkadan and their escort mission. There's some political subplots as well, but they weren't developed enough to be interesting. It's a pretty simple story overall, which is fine considering the action is the main draw. Pacing is steady from start to finish, not much filler slowing it down. There are other minor issues though, one being it's liberal use of death flags which made an already basic story more predictable. Romance was an awkward point as well, but these moments are minimal thankfully. The ending was fine; it concluded the main plot well read more

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Mar 27, 2016

25 of 25 episodes seen

Overall Rating: 8

Rikuson1 (All reviews)

125 people found this review helpful

Kidou Senshi Gundam: Tekketsu no Orphans/機動戦士ガンダム鉄血のオルフェンズ Review

Story (7/10) Good
More Specifically (7.75/10) Good+

The story for Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans like majority of the gundam plots attempts to juggle two main plots at the same time. One being about the characters and their goals they want to achieve and the second being the political side of things and they intertwine with each other. One would say if you want to follow the Gundam story plot formula both of these story plots need to be present and as synced with each other as you can possibly get. Like majority of Gundam alternate universes this universe read more

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Dec 30, 2018

25 of 25 episodes seen

Overall Rating: 10

Manthors (All reviews)

60 people found this review helpful

[This is my 7th edit because all I say is still not enough to keep praising this series] As a big-time Gundam fan and Gunpla builder, I gotta say that Iron-Blooded Orphans (IBO) is my all-time favorite Gundam, and my all-time favorite anime. Please, do yourself a favor, and even if you never watched Gundam or are not a fan of the mecha genre, watch IBO, you must, just must. I`ll tell you why!

Story: Let me start saying this is the most adult Gundam of all series. This show is meant to make you think about war, about poverty, about despair, about violence, and human rights. This is a show to make you see how disgraced people found a way to survive. IBO, by far, the most emotional Gundam in the franchise. It is surreal how the writers could be so good in this series.
The story of the first season is slow-building. You can`t expect the mecha action to start right away. For a while, you will get more of the character's stories, motivations, dramas, interests, and backstory. And that's why IBO is the greatest of all Gundam series. The motivation is deep and emotional, full of meaning and sensible moments, but without the shonen drama! The characters have real-life motivation, trying to find their place in the world and when the action starts, you will be way more driven to see the outcome, you will learn to care for these characters in ways no other Gundam made me do. They are full of personalities, and their motivation is real world-like. The plot is interesting, with a different background that the regular Gundam anime. The plot is set with a different motivation, diverging from the classic Earth vs Space backstory that all Gundam try to achieve. In general is more about companies, war merchants, corrupt institutions, and economic motivations than anything else. Even the story of the mechas is more in-depth than any other because the reason the Gundams were created is awesome. It's just a masterpiece of a story. The only people that the story won't reach are those who are on this only for the action. Nevertheless, for those, I say: Don`t worry, when the action starts, you will get VERY satisfied since Mika and Barbatos are the most badass fighters in Gundam history yes, way more badass than Setsuna from 00). And the second season is pure action. Finally, I must say that IBO is the most adult Gundam ever, with hard scenes and adult themes, which makes it even more enjoyable and puts some distance from all other Gundam series.

Art and Sound: Outstanding. I`ll only highlight the OST, which has the most awesome battle music from the franchise: Crescent Moon. Additionally, all three opening songs are amazing. I actually never devote myself to talk about the music, but IBO also stands out in this aspect. I have watched this show 3 times already, and in the second time, I notice that the opening songs align with the events of their seasons. Although you might think that's obvious, it is not straightforward as it seems. Even if you listen to them, you will only UNDERSTAND them after advancing in the story. And, well, this is beyond awesome.

Characters: As I mentioned above, characters design and development is the major strong point of IBO. ALL OF THEM GET DEVELOPED. You won`t see the same thing that happens in other Gundam (I am looking at you 00), in which some characters never get the spotlight. They all do, they all have feelings, motivations, opinions of their one. You will see their past, they struggle (WHICH IS REAL) and you will get emotionally attached to them. They say deep stuff, do incredible feats and have more complex philosophies. The writers and director were superb in this Gundam, which I found amazing. They had the ability to make a show with dozens of characters to follow, but able to develop all of them. Orga is the best character of the Gundam franchise for me, and Mika, although having not much within him, is the best Gundam pilot in the history of Gundam. He is straight out savage and is not one single moment you will see him doubting his actions. No shonen dumb doubts about the war and "which is the right thing" with Mika. Mika sees the enemy of his friends and family, and he goes for the throat. All secondary characters like Biscuit, Akihiro, Dante, Eugene, Ride, etc are developed well. I must also highlight something: I could not found a true antagonist here. IBO plays in the grey area, such as in the real world, so all of them are right and wrong at some point, even the protagonists. And, be shocked people, the girl-politician (that almost all Gundam have at some point) has a great development. She is indeed relevant to the plot and to the events surrounding her, and her development is the best one for a political-centered character in the franchise. Even the antagonists have some serious philosophies and real backgrounds that put distance between all other antagonists in the Gundam verse. I`ll never find all the right words to describe how amazingly written the characters in IBO were. The characters will almost feel like family at the end of the show. Finally, let me add that the relationship between the two major protagonists (Orga and Mika) is something that no other Gundam ever did. Actually, is something that I haven't seen in another anime, not like that.

Mechas: Barbatos, the main Gundam, became my favorite Gundam in terms of design. Calm down now, let me explain. I build Gunplas, so far I`ve built a lot of them. Although Barbatos follows some of the same formulae, he is the only feral-looking Gundam. He actually looks like a savage Gundam, which is consistent with Mika fighting style. Never before, and never again, some Gundam looked like Barbatos. The Graize models (your standard NPC-Mobile Suits) have also good designs, very distant from the Zaku/Tieren types. You will see some other MS, with not much to discuss, but Gusion Rebake is one nice Gundam as well, but it has some mechanics stolen from Seravee (Gundam 00). The amazing part of the mechas is also their backstory. In a final note, I would like to mention that the Gundam in IBO are, as well as their characters, the most "real-mecha" of the entire franchise. They break more often, they don`t use light-sabers, they use real weapons, like giant swords and axes. Hence, the fighting scenes are way more brutal.
Trivia: after watching the first season, look about Goetic mythology.

Overall: Best Gundam in the series for me, with AMAZING, AWESOME, COLOSSAL character development. You will be cheering for Tekkadan the whole series and caring for their members in a way no other Gundam did. This is my favorite anime of all-time because it was able to make me more emotional than any other anime, movie, book, or manga in my life (and, damn, I am the type of guy that never cries). Even if you are not a mecha fan, IBO is still for you. At the end of this show Tekakdan will feel like family.

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