Ask John: Will Original Gundam Get Re-Released?

Question:
Since the Gundam 0079 series is so popular, is there any chance that the series will be re-released on either DVD or Blue Ray with original Japanese language with english subtitles? If yes, is there any possibility that the series will include episode 15 in the rerelease?

Answer:
This is a question more difficult to answer that it superficially appears to be. The original Mobile Suit Gundam television series is quite popular in Japan, but not in America. In fact, the show has such minimal consumer interest in America that the probability of an American DVD or high definition re-release of the series is very remote. The original Gundam television series and its compilation movies are the only Gundam anime released in America by Bandai Entertainment that have not been re-released in multi-disc sets. (Literally, the Gundam Seed Destiny series has also not been resolicited either, but I anticipate that a re-release is only a matter of time.)

However, while an American manufactured re-release of First Gundam is unlikely, a Japanese release may be possible. Bandai Visual of Japan has announced plans to concentrate on developing Blu-ray anime releases for international release. Considering that the Gundam franchise is the Namco Bandai Group’s most profitable franchise, an eventual Japanese Blu-ray release of the original Gundam television series is almost inevitable. While the American release of First Gundam excluded episode 15, demand from Japanese consumers will certainly mandate the inclusion of that episode.

I can’t be certain that the original Mobile Suit Gundam anime will receive a Blu-ray release, but I’m confident that such a release will happen. A Japanese Blu-ray release will definitely include the original Japanese language dialogue and all 43 episodes. If American collectors get lucky, any future Japanese Blu-ray release will also include a selectable English translation.