Kido Senshi Gundam Seed: Owaranai Ashita e - A Timeless Mecha Adventure

Story

Kido Senshi Gundam Seed: Owaranai Ashita e, a title exclusive to Japan, is an engaging extension of the Gundam Seed universe. The game is set in the Cosmic Era, a time where humanity is divided between Naturals, who live on Earth, and Coordinators, genetically enhanced humans residing in space colonies. The narrative follows the tumultuous journey of Kira Yamato, a Coordinator thrust into the heart of conflict when he finds himself piloting the advanced mobile suit, Strike Gundam.

The story begins with Kira’s peaceful life disrupted as the space colony Heliopolis is attacked by ZAFT, a military organization of Coordinators. In the chaos, Kira’s loyalty is tested as he discovers his best friend, Athrun Zala, is part of the ZAFT forces. The game intricately weaves a tale of friendship, betrayal, and the struggle for peace amidst a backdrop of war. Players navigate through pivotal moments and battles, experiencing the emotional depth and development of characters as they grapple with their ideologies and personal relationships.

Owaranai Ashita e expands on the anime’s narrative by providing additional story arcs and character interactions, offering fans a more comprehensive understanding of the Gundam Seed lore. The game explores themes of identity, the morality of war, and the impact of technology on human evolution, making it a rich storytelling experience for players.

Gameplay

Owaranai Ashita e offers a unique blend of strategic combat and role-playing elements that stay true to the Gundam Seed franchise. Players engage in a series of missions that vary from intense mobile suit battles to intricate strategic objectives. The game emphasizes tactical decision-making, requiring players to carefully select their mobile suits, partners, and equipment before heading into battle.

The combat system allows for dynamic battles where players control their mobile suits in real-time, executing a variety of attacks and maneuvers. The game also introduces a partner system, where players form teams with AI-controlled allies, coordinating attacks and strategies to overcome formidable opponents. This feature adds a layer of depth to the gameplay, as players must consider the strengths and weaknesses of their partners to maximize their combat effectiveness.

Progression in Owaranai Ashita e is tied to the customization and upgrading of mobile suits. Players can collect parts and equipment to enhance their suits, tailoring them to suit their playstyle. This customization aspect, combined with the strategic elements, ensures each player’s experience is unique and engaging.

Graphics and Sound

For its time, Kido Senshi Gundam Seed: Owaranai Ashita e boasts impressive graphics that capture the essence of the Gundam Seed anime. The game features detailed mobile suit models and vibrant environments that bring the cosmic era to life. Cutscenes are especially noteworthy, employing a mix of in-game graphics and anime-style animations to deliver key story moments with dramatic flair.

The sound design complements the visual experience, with a soundtrack that includes both original compositions and tracks from the anime series. The music enhances the emotional and dramatic moments of the game, while the sound effects add authenticity to the battles, from the clashing of beam sabers to the roar of engines. The voice acting, performed by the original Japanese cast, further immerses players in the Gundam Seed universe, adding depth to the character interactions and story progression.

Legacy and Reception

Upon its release, Kido Senshi Gundam Seed: Owaranai Ashita e received a warm reception from fans of the Gundam franchise and newcomers alike. The game was praised for its faithful adaptation of the anime’s storyline and its ability to expand on the existing lore. Critics and players appreciated the strategic depth of the gameplay and the customization options available for mobile suits.

While the game was not released outside of Japan, it developed a dedicated following among international Gundam enthusiasts who sought out translations and guides to experience the game. This cult status has contributed to its legacy as a beloved entry in the Gundam gaming series, often cited for its engaging narrative and innovative gameplay mechanics.

The game’s influence is evident in subsequent Gundam titles, which have continued to explore strategic gameplay and narrative depth. Owaranai Ashita e set a precedent for how Gundam games could blend storytelling with interactive elements, paving the way for future titles to expand on this formula.

Conclusion

Kido Senshi Gundam Seed: Owaranai Ashita e stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of the Gundam Seed franchise. Its rich narrative, strategic gameplay, and impressive audiovisual presentation make it a memorable experience for fans and gamers alike. Despite its limited release, the game’s impact on the Gundam gaming community and its contribution to the series’ legacy are undeniable.

For those with a passion for mecha and strategic storytelling, Owaranai Ashita e offers a compelling journey into the heart of the Cosmic Era. It remains a cherished title for those who have experienced it, continuing to inspire discussions and nostalgia among Gundam fans worldwide.