Superior Defender Gundam Force

Superior Defender Gundam Force
File:Sdgundamposter.jpg The early cast of SD Gundam Force
Genre	Mecha, Comedy, Action, Science Fiction
Anime
Directed by	Yuuichi Abe
Studio	Sunrise

Overview

A Japan/America co-production, SD Gundam Force initially broadcasted on Cartoon Network in US for 26 episodes, and later on TV Tokyo for 52 episodes, making it the longest Gundam series to date. Currently there has been no official word on the fate of the show within the US other than odd mentions, though fans continue to campaign for the release of the final 26 episodes on DVD. Unlike previous SD Gundam series, SD stands for Superior Defender. It is a crossover series based on the three SD settings that were used in earlier SD Gundam anime and manga: SD Commando, a science-fiction-styled militaristic setting; SD Sengokuden, a setting with samurai-themed robots; SD Gundam Gaiden, a medieval European fantasy-themed setting. It also contains many references and homages to the standard Gundam shows, especially those of the Universal Century, Future Century, and After Colony timelines.

The 'missing' episodes

SD Gundam Force received its world premiere on Cartoon Network's Toonami block in America, airing the initial 26 episodes. After several airings the show was eventually removed. A small number of statments from Bandai implied that final 26 episodes would soon after air in the US but did this not come to pass. Although no official explanation has been given, strong rumours persist that there were upsets in production which led to a sizeable delay in Bandai America receiving the episodes and that when they eventually did the marketability of the show had fast faded, being a niche show with in the already niche Gundam brand. Many individuals as a result believed that the episodes were never produced or that Bandai simply never dubbed them. This is false on both accounts as the complete series has aired in many Asian countries and the English language version of the full series has aired in at least the Philippines. This elusive second batch of episodes (referred to as 'season 2' by some, although response from Bandai implies this is merely a fan coined term) have been much sought after by the remaining fanbase with little luck. Unless an official distributor sees fit to release the remaining episodes (the show has seen a DVD release in Japan or Korea, though the English audio is not included), it is likely these episodes will remain a rarely seen extension of the Gundam franchise.

Synopsis

The story is set in the futuristic city of Neotopia, a happy peaceful place where humans and robots co-exist, until the Dark Axis, an evil force from another dimension, arrives.

Aware of the Dark Axis in advance, Neotopia established the secret Super Dimensional Guard to combat the invaders whilst keeping the conflict a secret from the public. A young boy named Shute becomes accidentally involved in the first battle between the Dark Axis and the SDG's Gundam Force robot hero, Captain Gundam. Shute's friendship with Captain is critical to activating Captain's Soul Drive, his mysterious power source that is the key to victory. As the fighting continues, Gundams from other dimensions such as Zero and Bakunetsumaru arrive to help out. As the Gundam Force beat back the mono-eyed invaders the battle spreads beyond Neotopia into the dimensions of Lacroa and Ark, leading into a final confrontation with the supreme leader of the Dark Axis- General Zeong.

Characters and Locations

Neotopia

Neotopia, as it's name implies, is a utopia city seemingly existing in Earth's future. Humanity and robots (designated Mobile Citizens) live togethor in harmony. In order to keep this peace, the conflict with the Dark Axis is kept secret for as long as possible. The city is protected by the Gundam Force, the robotic members of which are designated Combat Mobile Citizens. The Neotopia characters are modelled after SD Commando and the Earth Federation Mobile Suits of the Universal Century.

• Shute - A young boy who lives in Neotopia, Shute accidentally becomes involved in the secret war against the Dark Axis when their initial invasion attempt occurs right before his eyes. Shute is saved by Captain Gundam and, despite some initial objections from the SDG for the boy's safety, the two become fast friends and partners. It's this friendship which enables Shute to activate the Soul Drive, the mysterious core of Captain Gundam. Shute was made an honorary member of the SDG after he saved Captain and Zero from the Magna Musai. During the Gundam Force's mission to liberate Lacroa and Ark, Shute receives a backpack with boosters and a beam saber.
• Captain Gundam - The first unit produced by the Super Dimensional Guard's top secret Gundam Force programme, Captain Gundam is the main defender of Neotopia. Initially secretive and rigid, Captain loosens up and becomes more human via his interactions with Shute. The core of Captain Gundam is his Soul Drive, a mysterious power source which responds to emotions of others. When cheered on by Shute, Captain can use the Soul Drive to unleash his lethal Captain Punch fist attack. Whilst Captain's standard form keeps weapons to a minimum (vulcans, missile launchers, beam saber and an optional light beam rifle and light shield), he is designed to be adaptable for various missions. Resemble the RX-78-2 Gundam/RX-78GP01 Gundam "Zephyranthes". Some of his other forms include:
  • Mobile Citizen Captain - When Captain wishes to journey into the world beyond the SDG headquarters Blanc Base, he adopts this simple disguise. Captain's armour and weapons are replaced with more friendlier components, his V-fin flips upside down to serve as eyebrows and his mouth guards open to reveal a human-like mouth.
  • Heavy Weapon Captain Gundam - A prototype upgrade designed after the SDG became aware of Commander Sazabi, the Heavy Weapon System adds extra fire power in the form of shoulder and backmounted missile pods, a hand held machine gun and a much larger shield. As well as serving as a weapon system for the most dangerouds of missions, the extra components enable Captain to transform into the tank-like GunVehicle mode for extra speed.
  • Captain Gundam Option V -In preparation for the Gundam Force's mission to liberate Lacroa and Ark, Captain receives new equipment in the form of his Option V backpack. As well as more powerful boosters, the Option V comes with the V Rod, a double sided beam lance. It is stored on the backpack as two equal halves which can double as beam cannons.
• Hyper Captain Gundam - After his first battle with the Dark Axis Professor Gerbera, Captain is once again highly damaged and returned to Neotopia for repair. Rather than just repairing him, the SDG elect to give him a whole new body and GP01 Hyper Captain Gundam is born. With the Gundam Force's mission now known to the public of Neotopia, Hyper Captain Gundam's body has no need for the Mobile Citizen disguise capability. It also uses a more bold design scheme. Captain retained this form until the end of the series.Resembles the RX-78GP01Fb Gundam Full Vernian "Zephyranthes". As with his previous body, Hyper Captain has various forms.
  • Hyper Captain Gundam Option F - The most common form of Hyper Captain. This form incorporates the dual combining beam sabers he used on his adventures across the Minov Sea and in Lacroa as well as optional backmounted flight pack. He can also unleash an attack from his V-Fin as well as continuing to use the Captain Punch.
  • Hyper Captain Gundam Option Z - When the final battle against the Dark Axis begins, Hyper Captain resorts to using his GP03 Option Z weapons pack. A backmounted unit with various thrusters, gatlings and beam cannons, it is the most powerful known form of Hyper Captain. Resembles the RX-78GP03 Gundam Dendrobium Orchis.
• Gunbike - A large Gundam-style motorcycle intended for Captain, Gunbike houses the AI of Captain's former seasoned instructor. As dedicated to the protection of Neotopia as his student, Gunbike expects nothing but the best from his allies. He can be combined with an optional sidecar (commonly used by Shute) and boasts 2 six missile pods. When Captain activates the Soul Drive whilst riding Gunbike, a dynamo system enables Gunbike to feed off this energy as well for extra speed.
• Guneagle - The third Neotopian Gundam to appear, GunEagle is young and cocky. Admiring Captain as a hero, GunEagle is delighted when he can finally fight alongside his idol. GunEagle is specifically created to deal with aerial threats that the other Gundam Force members aren't capable of reaching. Whilst his heart may be in the right place, he often shows off and pays the price soon after. Guneagle resembles the RX-93 ν Gundam Double Fin Funnel Type, but the fin Funnels are his wings.
• Gundiver - Specialising in underwater combat, the team of 7 identical Gundiver brothers work togethor to deal with threats connected to the sea near Neotopia. Unlike GunEagle, their personalities are similar to Captain's. When all 7 units are present, they can pull off a devastating team attack. Based on the RGZ-91 Re-GZ
  • Gunchoppers - When the final battle against the Dark Axis begins, there is little use for the Gundivers in what is mainly an aerial conflict. The SDG quickly reconvert them to a team of aerial Gunchoppers, replacing their aquatic elements with aerial ones.
• Gunpanzer - After sending out the newly built Hyper Captain to help with the Gundam Force's mission in Ark, the SDG are quick to send further reinforcements. One of these is Gunpanzer, an immense Gundam who can transform into an armoured transport for the rest of the team. Gunpanzer's AI is fact that of Gunbike, eager as always to be fighting on the front lines. Gunpanzer's pressence gives some much needed might to Britainmaru's forces and the two "old men" quickly become good friends.
• Chief Haro - The leader of the SDG, Chief Haro is most notable for wearing a Haro (Gundam's famous mascot robot) helmet to mask his identity. Whilst Haro's true identity is never said in the show, many clues strong imply he is in fact Shute's father Mark, an idea many fans accept as canon. Whilst Chief Haro often leads from the SDG's hidden Blanc Base, he is not afraid to get out on the battlefield himself and use his daredevil fighting style. As with all officers of the SDG, Chief Haro is dedicated to ridding all dimensions of the invading Dark Axis menace.
• Juli - An SDG operator. Juli often serves by Chief Haro's side and is dedicated but caring professional. She personally oversees most of the Gundam's launches, keeping track of them from the moment they leave the catapult to when they safely return.
• Kao Lyn - 'Father' to all the Neotopian Gundams, Kao Lyn is a brilliant but slight eccentric scientist prone to speaking in gibberish whilst performing martial arts moves. Kao Lyn is rightfully proud of his 'children', knowing they are a near unbeatable first line of defense for Neotopia.
• Bell Wood - A teenage prodigy, Bell Wood is in charge of providing the SDG with their own dimensional transport device to combat their enemy. In the final stages of it's development the device is accidentally damaged by Bakunetsumaru and the two spend much time arguing about this fact (Baku eager to get home, Bell stating he should have been more careful in the first place). Whilst prone to being egotistical and self serving, Bell Wood can be moved to serve the greater good. He ultimately never gets his device working, instead relying on the captured Zakarello Gate to fill the need.
• Mayor Margaret Gathermoon - The talented and glamarous mayor of Neotopia, Mayor Margaret cares greatly for her citizens. Aware of the secret war, she often uses her position and quick wits to help keep the conflict secret and avoid general panic. Mayor Margaret can often be seen with paper and pencil in hand happily sketching away an idealic view or memorable scene, both easily found in Neotopia. Her love of art is imortalised in a giant living statue of herself. The statue was briefly taken over by Zapper Zaku and the rampaging giantess nearly defeated the Gundam Force.
• Leonardo - A moustached GM serving as Mayor's assistant.
• Prio - Leonardo's human companion.
• Gundamusai - After the final major battle against the Dark Axis invasion squad, the SDG seizes elements of their technology. One such item is the Magna Musai battleship, which is reconverted into the Gundam-themed Gundamusai. The ship is controlled by the AI programme RAIMI and serves as a flagship for the Gundam Force's mission to free Lacroa and Ark.
• Elmechu - Tiny mouse robots that scuttle in the dark corners of the Gundamusai. Their main function is to repair damage. As their name implies, they resemble the MAN-08 Elmeth.
• Gunperry - SDG transport ship. Whilst mass produced models are black, Chief Haro owns a custom white painted version.
• Keiko - Shute's mother and a teacher in Neotopia. Whilst she is aware of her son's Gundam friends, Keiko doesn't know about their secret mission. Like most of the people in Neotopia, she finally discovered the truth when the Dark Axis launched a major attack on Neotopia.
• Nana - Shute's baby sister. Via the time travel capabilities of Zeong's massive Soul Drive, we see that she'll grow up to look like a cross between Sayla and Mayor Margaret.
• Mark - Shute's father. A musician, he spends so much time in the studio writing and recording music that he usually misses the exciting action in Neotopia...Or does he?
• Sayla - A beautiful girl that reminds Zero of the princess of Lacroa. Sayla is a bit of a ditz, often oblivious to the action going on around her and possessing an obsession for the cakes she loves to bake. Her name is an homage to original series heroine Sayla Mass.

Ark

Ark is a land similar to feudal Japan, populated by techno-organic Musha Gundams who are often embroiled in civil war. They are cautious of the magic practiced by their neighbour Lacroa and very few of them have ever seen human life. Unlike other Gundams, Musha Gundams possess a 'GunSoul', which leaves their bodies upon death, only to reincarnate later. Musha Gundams practice a strict code of honour, violation of which is seen as a great offense. The Ark characters are modelled after SD Sengokuden and the Mobile Fighters and Mobile Suits of G Gundam.

• Bakunetsumaru (爆熱丸) - The Blazing Samurai of Ark, Bakunetsumaru is dedicated to protecting his homeland from both the forces of Kibaomaru and the Dark Axis. After being accidentally flung to Neotopia and seeing that the war is spilling even further into other dimensions, he swears to fight to protect his new home but remains vocal about his desperation to return to Ark. Bakunetsumaru's name is often a source of comedy as those not native Ark often forget how to say it. As a result, he is usually referred to as 'Baku' by his new friends. Baku fights with twin swords, at least one of which was given to him by the master who trained him. Using these he can perform his destructive signature attack, the Bakunetsu Tenkyoken. His design is a Musha-style GF13-017NJ Shining Gundam.
  • Bakushinmaru (爆心丸) - Bakushinmaru is Bakunetsumaru wearing the Baku Shin Armor which gives extra techniques and abillities which are powered by the wearer's own life force. The armour is destined to be worn by one noble heart musha per generation; the wearer does not choose it, it chooses the wearer. He resembles the GF13-017NJII God Gundam in this form.
• Entengo (炎天号) - Bakunetsumaru's steed. The only connection Baku has to his homeland whilst in his Neotopian exile, Entengo is always by his master's side. He stays in Neotopia whilst the Gundam Force head out to save Lacroa but is quickly sent on when the Gundams reach Ark, where he stays by his master's side once again until the end of the war. Based on Fuun Saki.
• Dai-Shogun of Perfect Virtue (完全善大将軍) - The legendary Musha Gundam who possesses reality bending powers which he theatrically uses with a wave of his fan. Initially showing up to give Bakunetsumaru cryptic hints about the future that awaits him, it's ultimately revealed that he is in fact the adult form of Genkimaru.
  • Ship of the Golden Crest - Daishogun's personal vessel. It is capable of detecting invisible enemies.
• Genkimaru (元気丸) - the estranged son of Kibaomaru, he joined the SDG to save Ark and get revenge on his unknowing father for abandoing his mother. Despite his bratish behaviour, destiny seems to have something special in mind for Genki as he possesses the ability to cut holes in the fabric of space time to allow himself and others to cross dimensions. He is also the leader of the Genki Power Squad which protects Ark against all evil in the end of the series. It is eventally revealed that Genkimaru will become the DaiShogun of Perfect Virtue.
• Ashuramaru (阿修羅丸) - Formerly Kujakumaru and a one time friend of Bakunetsumaru, he joined Kibaomaru to gain enough power to seek revenge against Bakunetsumaru for sparing his life out of respect when he lost a duel to the Blazing Samurai. Ashuramaru was later defeated in a death-duel against Bakunetsumaru, upon which he asked for his friend's forgivness before transforming back into a GunSoul which was taken by the Dai-Shogun of Perfect Virtue. His Ashura design is based on the GF13-041NSI Ashura Gundam.
• Cobramaru (虚武羅丸) - A spy and assassin of Kibaomaru specializing in taking over castles, Cobramaru & his kin had sworn loyality to Kibaomaru. Cobramaru is designated Cobramaru Purple by his sibling teammates (Cobramaru Red, Cobramaru Yellow, Cobramaru Green and Cobramaru Blue). Cobramaru lost his Cobra hood in a battle against the Gundam Force on the Gundamusai. After being removed from Kibaomaru's service for a rash of failures, he attempted to regain his former position by stealing his family's legendary Cobramaru Black armour (which grants the wearer the power to perfectly mimic their enemies looks and most of their abilities) but was once again defeated by his enemies and the Cobramaru Black armour was destroyed. Cobramaru attempted suicide before his former master to make amends for this latest failure but was stopped by Genkimaru, who made him part of his forces.
  • The remainder of the Cobramarus were completely defeated by Bakushinmaru after they tried to assassinate Britainmaru. Resembles the GF13-030NIN Cobra Gundam.
• Kibaomaru (騎馬王丸) - The evil Warlord of Ark who joined Dark Axis. Current ruler of a powerful musha clan, Kibaomaru seeks to rule Ark. He allied himself with the Dark Axis to give himself the edge in the civil war, but finds that his new allies demands sit less and less well with him. After Gerbera kidnaps Shute and the Princess, Kibaomaru requests they be put under his custody. Through his interactions with these 'strange creatures', Kibaomaru begins to show a better side. Resembles the GF13-002NGR Zeus Gundam.
  • Oshogo - Kibaomaru's personal chariot. It is capable of flight and hitched to two mobile horses, Hiryugo and Kakuryogu.
• The Kibao Horde - A team of 4 powerful evil Musha Gundams who serve as bodyguards to Kibaomaru and protect his fortress in his absence. Despite a fierce battle, they are beaten by the Gundam Force when they attack the fortress to rescue the kidnapped Shute and Princess Rele. The two teams face off again in the final conflict of the Ark civil war with a similar result, at which point the Kibao Horde accept the Gundam Force as superiour warriors.
  • Bakuhamaru (爆覇丸) - The Leader and most powerful of the four, Bakuhamaru's weapon of choice is his giant hammer. Resembles the GF13-001NHII Master Gundam.
  • Mokinmaru (猛禽丸) - A deft master of the blade, Mokinmaru handles a marumasa, and is capable of flight. Resembles the Gundam Heaven’s Sword.
  • Kijumaru (機獣丸) - Unlike other Gundams, Kijumaru does not have conventional arms. In place of forearms are large, claw-like attachments. Resembles the Grand Gundam.
  • Haganemaru (破餓音丸) The last of the Kibao Horde, Haganemaru manipulates two halves of a giant spiked ball. By enclosing himself with the sphere, he is able to become a spikeball and plow through his opposition. Resembles the Walter Gundam.
• Zakobusshi - As part of the alliance between Kibaomaru and the Dark Axis, his new allies provide him with forces to increase his military might. For this purpose, Professor Gerbera designs the Zakobusshi which are a mix of the Zako design with Ark culture. The Zakobusshi share about the same amount of love for their cousins as the Pawn Leos and so they quickly use their superiour numbers to seize control of the Zako Zako Hour once it's hosts arrive in Ark. They are based on the JMS60 Busshi.
• Nobusshi - A sub-species of Gundam native to Ark, Nobusshi make up most of the forces fighting in the civil war. Britainmaru has two Nobusshi aids named Kinkaku and Ginkaku. Based on the JMS71 Nobusshi.
• Britainmaru (武里天丸) - Once a great warrior and ruler of Ark, Britainmaru now possesses the strength of mind but not the strength of body to successfully fight. His Universe Castle seized by Kibaomaru, Britainmaru leads his forces from a camp. Initially suspicious of Bakunetsumaru, he comes to accept the younger musha as his successor. He also forms a friendship with Gunpanzer, since they are both of similar age and mind. Loosely based on the GF13-003NEL John Bull Gundam.
• Mobile Musha Daishinshou (機動武者大神将) - A gigantic Gundam held deep within the Universe Castle. Not essentially alive, it has a Mobile Trace cockpit which enables it to mimic the move of it's pilot. Kibaomaru seeks Genkimaru so that he may enter it and use it to lay siege to his enemy, but in a struggle Genki becomes the pilot instead. Genki subsequently used it to lay siege to Kibaomaru's forces in the final battle of the Ark civil war. After departing it, Daishinshou mysteriously transformed into the Dai-Shogun's armor and boat and flew away.
• Universe Castle - Originally the castle of Britainmaru, it was captured by the combined forces of Kibaomaru and the Dark Axis in a battle that wasted 29 Big Zams. It is equipt with a huge mace, hammer, spinning blades, and various cannons. It also has tank treads on the bottom, granting the Castle mobility.

Lacroa

Similar to medieval Europe, Lacroa is a beautiful kingdom where magic is highly common (the exception being the Dark Hole, a large pit where only the power of spirits works). The royal family are protected by a specially selected group of Knight Gundams, prided for their skill and chivalry. Two years ago the kingdom was attacked by the Dark Axis and used as a foothold for them. The Lacroa characters are modelled after SD Gundam Gaiden and the Mobile Suits of Gundam Wing.

• Zero the Winged Knight - A Knight Gundam sworn to protect Lacroa and it's royal family, Zero was spirited away to Neotopia two years ago in the hopes he would find a way to combat the Dark Axis occupation. He ultimately hooked up with Neotopia's own Gundam defenders when the Dark Axis launched a campaign there. Flamboyant and noble, Zero sees himself as something of a gentleman and has an ego to match. He's also a sucker for women, especially damsels in distress. Like all Lacroan natives, Zero has access to a degree of magical powers which he casts with his powerful Buster Sword. Out of combat, he often produces magical flowers to annoy his team mate Bakunetsumaru. Zero is an important figure in Lacroan mythology, which regards him as the 'Chosen One' who will save Lacroa. Based off the XXXG-01W Wing Gundam.
  • Zero Custom, the Knight of Silver Wings - After nursing Fenn to full health, Zero discovers that his friend's true form is that of the powerful Feather Dragon, one of Lacroa's most powerful spirits. By merging with the matured Fenn, Zero becomes the much more powerful Zero Custom, the Knight of Silver Wings. In this form Zero wears angel-like armour and has access to a Twin Buster Sword which can split in two. He also gains a number of powerful new attacks, strongest of which is the mighty Infinity Winds. In this form, he resembles the XXXG-00W0 Wing Gundam Zero as it appeared in Endless Waltz.
  • Fenn - Entrusted to Zero after a brief return to Lacroa, Fenn hatches from an egg and appears to be little more than a white/blue flying fluffball with a childish temprament. He was named after GunEagle noted the only word he could say was 'Fenn'. After a brief period of being cared for by Zero, Fenn responds to his friends feelings by growing to gigantic size. Soon after he faces Tallgeese and his Griffin and reveals his true form- the Feather Dragon, a powerful Lacroan spirit only second to the Superior Dragon. Whilst Fenn sacrafices himself in his first battle to save Zero, he returns to his friend whilst the Gundamusai travels the Minov Sea and again to help him fight against General Zeong.
• Deed, Knight of the Shining Blade - Another Knight Gundam and Zero's best friend. When Zero showed doubt over the plan to send him away, Deed reassured his friend that the other Knights would continue to fight on and Zero's mission was just as important. Deed's true motives were in fact much darker- he had masterminded the Dark Axis invasion as a means to win the heart of the princess with whom he had fallen in love. Soon after Zero had left, Deed betrayed his 'allies' and sided with the Dark Axis under his alias of Deathscythe. Resembles the XXXG-01D Gundam Deathscythe.
  • Deathscythe, Knight of Darkness - In order to hide his identity and gain more power, Deed captured the Steel Dragon and named their merged form Deathscythe. It was under this alias that he tricked Tallgeese into forming an alliance with the Dark Axis to cause Lacroa's downfall. Usually when in this form, Deed uses the cloaking magic and appears as a floating green blob. However, as his plans near the end he de-cloaks and reveals his fearsome form to his enemies. Based on the XXXG-01D2 Gundam Deathscythe Hell Custom.
  • Steel Dragon - Sibling to Fenn, the Steel Dragon is equal in power. As Fenn's features hint at his destined link with Zero, the Steel Dragon fits with Deed's 'grim reaper' look. When merged with Deed, the Steel Dragon's tail becomes a large scythe for his master. The Dragon appears to disagree with Deed's evil acts. In the middle of a battle high in the sky against Zero, he unmerges from his master and leaves Deed to fall to his death. He later cooperates with Fenn to produce a dimensional gate to send the Gundamusai on its way to Ark.
• Rock, Knight Of The Hot Sands - Leader of the Knight Gundams. A brave warrior, he urged his team mates to fight on against the invaders. He fights with a curved blade. After his death, he is melted down and his Gundanium is used in building General Zeong's body. Resembles the XXXG-01SR Gundam Sandrock.
• Battle, The Crimson Knight - Another Knight Gundam who specalises in projectile combat, mainly his 4-round crossbow. After his death, he is melted down and his Gundanium is used in building General Zeong's body. Resembled the XXXG-01H Gundam Heavyarms
• Nataku, The Bronze Knight - The last Knight Gundam, who appears to have an elaborate glaive weapon permanently attached to his right arm. After his death, he is melted down and his Gundanium is used in building General Zeong's body. Resembled the XXXG-01S Shenlong Gundam
• Tallgeese, Knight of Tempest - Leader of the Dark Axis branch on Lacroa, Tallgeese was originally turned down to become a Knight Gundam. Through the deception of Deathscythe, Tallgeese joined the Dark Axis to take over. He could bond with the Griffin to become Griffin Tallgeese. After Tallgeese was defeated by the SDG a second time, trapped in limbo, Deathscythe managed to sent him the sword of Epyon to give him safe passage back to Lacroa. However, Tallgeese was soon possessed by the spirit of Epyon & once freed from the sword was rendered powerless. He redeemed himself in the end, helping fight Deathsycthe at the cost of his life. As his name suggested, he was patterned after the OZ-00MS2B Tallgeese III.
• Griffin - A sacred beast of Lacroa, controlled by Tallgeese. When the Epyon-possessed Tallgeese was attacked by a combination of Zero Custom's Infinity Winds and the Gundamusai's cannons, the Griffin was seemingly destroyed.
• Pawn Leo - Tallgeese's soldiers, created in his image by Deathscythe as a gift. Similar in stature to the Zakos, the Pawn Leos are even dumber. Deathscythe created them from charmed dice and they revert to this form once beaten. Unit commanders have a special head crest and Deathscythe maintains his own special Pawn Leos who have his colour scheme and stealth magic, much more powerful than the variety given to standard Pawn Leos. Resemable more ornate (and cuter) OZ-06MS Leos.
• Epyon - The powerful Epyon sword grants the wielder the powers of any it slays. However, the sword carries a terrible curse- prolonged use of the sword opens the wielder up to possession from the evil spirit within, the demon Knight Gundam Epyon. A being of pure darkness mana, Epyon lives only to kill and cause chaos. For increased power he can transform into a two headed dragon. Based on the OZ-13MS Gundam Epyon.
• Mercurius, Knight of Thunder - An evil knight Gundam Tallgeese revived. He & his brother Vayeate were killed by Tallgeese, so their life force could power the sword of Epyon.
• Vayeate, Knight of Storm - An evil knight Gundam Tallgeese revived. He & his brother Mercurius were killed by Tallgeese, so their life force could power the sword of Epyon. They were patterned off of their namesakes, the OZ-13MSX2 Mercurius and the OZ-13MSX1 Vayeate respectively.
• Relehimana Miya De Lacroa (Lilijimarna Miya Do Lacroa; sometimes shortened to "Princess Lily") - The princess of Lacroa, Rele was the one who tasked Zero with finding a way to save Lacroa. After many battles Zero was finally able to fulfill his duty and the princess was returned to normal. Initially a brat, Rele soon proves herself to be a capable and useful ally. She develops a crush on Shute and is eager to spend time with him. Named after Relena Peacecraft; also her full name references Relena, her voice actress Akiko Yajima, and her brother, Milliardo.
  • Fake Relehimana Miya De Lacroa - Deathscythe created her from a Princess rose in order to steal the white Bagu Bagu. But she betrayed Deathscythe and became friends with Shute, reverted back into her original form as punishment.
• Noah, Door, Core - Brother triplets who were tasked with guarding the Spirit Egg until Lacroa's saviour arrived. Zero was the saviour, but the triplets were highly suspicious of him at first until he bested Tallgeese in combat. Their mission fulfilled, the triplets turned to stone to await the day Zero achieved the final step of his journey. When the Dark Axis conflict ended, the Gundam Force met the triplets again.

Dark Axis

Invaders from an unknown dimension, the Dark Axis seek to conquer all realities. They posses a racist hatred of organic life, with hints that this is rooted in former slavery administered over them. Their forces consist of a main base which houses their leader, General Zeong, and an invasion force tasked with conquering dimensions to plunder their resources. Modeled after the Zeon Mobile Suits from the Universal Century timeline.

• Zapper Zaku - The first squad leader of the Dark Axis invasion force. He prefers to shoot first then ask questions later. After Sazabi's defeat, he was captured, surrendered and drafted to the SDG as janitorial service. However, in the final battle against General Zeong he revealed he had only pretended to be brainwashed to get revenge on Zeong for abandoning himself and his comrades before leading them in a final charge to destroy Zeong for good. After the war he and his allies chose to remain in Ark and defend it. Zapper apparently was not always a leader, earning this rank in a duel against another candidate known as Solitary Gyan. When Zapper looked to lose the duel, Gyan challenged a Zako who Zapper had entrusted with his machine guns to help his friend. The Zako surprised everyone when it worked up the courage to do just that and in anger Gyan killed it. Furious over the death, Zapper took his machine guns and began frantically firing in every direction. A terrified Gyan surrendered but Zapper saw no reason to give mercy to someone who would not grant it to others and promptly killed him with a final burst of machine gun fire. Impressed, Commander Sazabi granted Zapper a commander fin although Zapper himself gave no thought to securing the promotion at the time. Resembles a MS-06 Zaku II.
• Grappler Gouf - After Zapper Zaku's two defeats, Grappler Gouf was sent into battle. He is easily the most intelligent and level headed on the invasion force trio, with ambitions to eventually take over Sazabi's position. Grappler's left arm is designed to be modular and has been shown to work as a regular arm, a deadly missile launcher and also wielding a clawed attachment. After Sazabi's defeat, he and Destroyer Dom secretly got on board the Gundamusai in an attempt to rescue Zapper Zaku. They failed and were likewise drafted. Based off the MS-07B3 Gouf Custom.
• Destroyer Dom - The third warrior sent by Commander Sazabi. Dark Axis weapons expert. What he lacks in brains, he makes up for in pure destructive firepower ("Me wanna shoot BIG GUN! BOOM!"). Destroyer loves having new weapons to use, and gets upset when he doesn't have any. After Sazabi's defeat, he joined Grappler in a failed attempt to rescue Zapper Zaku. Shaped most like the MS-09F Dom Funf, but in the colors of the original MS-09 Dom. Usually followed by a trailer full of weapons that resembles a Gallop-class Land Battleship.
• Commander Sazabi - Leader of the Dark Axis invasion force, Commander Sazabi is the direct superiour of Zapper, Grappler and Destroyer. Although he usually leaves fighting to those under his command, he is near undefeatable himself due to his Soul Drive. Sazabi personally took command of the final direct attempt to invade Neotopia, a decision which led to his destruction by Captain Gundam. Resembles the MSN-04 Sazabi.
• Zako Soldiers - Infantry soldiers of Dark Axis. With half the size of regular robots, Zako Soldiers make up most of the troops in Dark Axis. Despite stength in numbers, they are not too bright. 3 of them host Zako Zako Hour, to usually give insight on some events. After the failed invasion of Neotopia, the Zakos are made part of Zapper Zaku's janitorial squad on the Gundamusai. As expected, they look like tiny Zaku IIs.
• BaguBagu - The tiny insect-like creatures capable of turning organic life-forms into stone. A giant version exists in Lacroa. Resemble tiny MA-05 Bigro, but green and with insect wings. During the invasion of Neotopia, Captain, by use of the Captain System and by channeling the essence of the Feather Dragon and Dai Shogun, was able to reverse the effects of all BaguBagu in Neotopia. These reversed BaguBagu are white, have more angelic wings, and Dai Shogun's kanji on their foreheads.
• Zako Red - Sazabi's right hand man. Possibly nothing more than a remote controlled robot that the Commander used to orchestrate his master plan, as he instantly deactivated without explanation when Sazabi emerged from his transport. Resembled the MS-06S Zaku II Commander Type used by Char Aznable.
• Four Doga Commandos - When a serious assault is needed, the Dark Axis use powerful Doga Bombers in place of Zako Soldiers. These specialist troops are led by four dedicated commanders (Gray Doga, Yellow Doga, Blue Doga and Purple Doga). Whilst three of them were destroyed by the Gundam Force, Grey Doga was personally wiped out by Commander Sazabi for having failed him.
• Big-Zam - The tank/bombarder used by Zapper Zaku, Grappler Gouf, Destroyer Dom in a successful attempt to find and cripple the SDG Blanc Base headquarters. The Dark Axis have also used these in Ark, where nearly 40 of them litter an empty battlefield. These Ark deployed units had a special armour coating applied, as a reference to the Big-Zam inspired JMA27T Fantoma. The tanks are based on the MA-08 Big Zam
• Professor Gerbera - The Dark Axis' chief science officer, Second-in-Command, and Sazabi's immediate superior. Despite resembling any other Dark Axis robot, this is just a disguise for Gebera's true form- Madnug, a Neotopian Gundam and 'brother' unit of Captain flung from the future by a terrible accident. Brainwashed into believing humans are evil creatures, he attempts to sway Captain to their cause and when this proves impossible attempts to kill him. In their final battle he is badly damaged and as a final act of defiance prepares to sacrafice himself for the rebirth of Zeong. Captain attempts to stop him, offering to return him to Neotopia. Madnug however cannot escape his brainwashing and jumps into a melting pit, ending his tormented life. He resembled the AGX-04 Gerbera Tetra in his disguise and resembled the RX-78GP04G Gundam Gerbera in his true form.
• General Zeong - The true leader of the Dark Axis. His gigantic body damaged/incomplete for unknown reasons, Zeong dispatches his minions to plunder other dimensions so he may be rebuilt. He is more powerful than any other single character in Neotopia, Lacroa or Ark. He is powered by a gigantic Soul Drive housed in his chest, which gives him the ability to brainwash people by playing on their darkest fears. After having successfully used this process on Madnug for years, he attempted to do similar to Shute in order to rob Captain Gundam of his own Soul Drive power. The plan ultimately failed and he was taken down by the Gundam Force, using the power of the Superior Dragon (awakened by humans and robots working as one). His head survived but was taken down by the Zapper, Grappler and Destroyer. Remembles the MSN-02 Zeong.
• Magna-Musai - Dark Axis flagship. Eventually captured and redesigned by the SDG. Resembles the Musai-Class Light Cruiser
  • Komusai - A small ship attached to the bottom of the Magna-Musai.
  • Komusai 2 - Yellow version of Komusai. It is capable of launching funnels that can redirect beam projectiles. Komusai 2 was defeated by Guneagle. The Gundivers tried to salvage is technolegy, but when became too violent they destroyed it.
• Zakarello Gate - A gate that opens holes to travel between dimensions. The larger gate is called Paparello whilst the small gate which is often used as a remote to summon him is his son, Chibirello. After the destruction of Zeong, the gate returns to dimension it came from, Resembles the MA-04X Zakrello.
• Control Horn - When a control horn is attached to a machine, the machine becomes an aggressive and violent slave of the Dark Axis.

Episode guide

1. His Name is Captain
2. Soul Drive, Activate!
3. Zero, the Flying Knight
4. Attack the Enemy Musai!
5. Gundam Force, Team Up!
6. The Blazing Samurai Comes to Neotopia
7. Go! Gunbike!
8. A Princess, A Cake, and the Winged Knight
9. Bakunetsumaru's Struggle
10. Gundam Force Triple Attack!
11. The Mystery of Lacroa Part 1: Arrival
12. The Mystery of Lacroa Part 2: Trapped
13. The Mystery of Lacroa Part 3: Return
14. Undercover Mission! Learn the Gundam Force's Secrets!
15. Mach Wings: GunEagle!
16. Masters of the Deep Sea: GunDivers!
17. Ashuramaru: The Old Rival Returns
18. Fly, Captain! The SDG Base Hangs by a Thread!
19. Showdown! Bakunetsumaru vs. Ashuramaru
20. Fenn's Disaster
21. Awakening! Feather Dragon
22. Attack of the Big-Zam
23. Fire Up! Captain System
24. Trouble! Stolen Soul Drive
25. Neotopia's Moment of Truth
26. The Final Battle! Commander vs. Captain
27. Into the Dark Axis
28. The Way of the Warrior
29. We're the Heroes?
30. Evil Sword Epyon

The Ride

During the show's run in Japan, a limited time attraction was opened. Titled SD Gundam Force: Destructive Daishogun Appears!!Zako?, the twenty minute show used a special theater to present a whole new SD Gundam Force adventure which the audience could interact with. Seemingly set in between episodes 26 and 27 (although overall it is best treated as being non-canon), the stars of the show are the Zakos who have been forced to become the SDG's cleaning crew. The Lacroan villain Da Jarle, Knight of the Hammer and the Ark Destructive Daishogun Hakaimaru seek to unify the world with the mysterious Zakarello Mobile. Da Jarle is able to change the appearance of others and Hakaimaru has a bath fetish that leads to him creating a 'Super Bathhouse' command station. The audience and the Zakos join the Gundam Force as they attempt to stop this new alliance.

Original characters were created for the show by Masato Ichishiki, author of the SD Gundam Mushamaruden manga. Motion capture data was taken from Japanese pro-wrestler Shinya Hashimoto for Hakaimaru's movements. Whilst Hakaimaru appears to be a generic Musha Gundam, Da Jarle resembles a OZ-12SMS Taurus.

The Games

Two games have been released based on the show; a side scrolling platform game for the Game Boy Advance and a 3D action adventure game for the Playstation 2. The GBA game retold the story of the first 26 episodes of the show and allowed players to play as either Captain Gundam, Bakunetsumaru or Zero the Winged Knight. Characters could be switched at any time (for the cost of one bar from the special attack meter) and players would need to use each character's strengths to successfully complete the game.

The PS2 title was a much grander affair, presenting a brand new story. The mysterious Dimesional Halo appears in Neotopia and creates mirror versions of Neotopia, Lacroa and Ark. The Gundam Force are forced to battle their way through these copy dimensions and even face their own evil dopplegangers to reach De Scar Road and defeat the Dimensional Halo. Each Gundam Force member had a variety of new forms they could achieve including one super secret form for each which could only be unlocked by a code (the code was presented on a Japanese trading card and eventually filtered to the Western fandom). The game even eventually allowed the player to play as a Zako soldier.

The Dimensional Halo and it's minions were based on the weapons of the Zanscare Empire in Victory Gundam. The game also featured further references to the earlier UC, FC and AC timeline in the form of new villains to populate the mirror dimensions.

Manga & Side Stories

SD Gundam Force has received a few manga interpretations. These include a serialized retelling of the show, a prequel manga and a loosely connected sidestory. The prequel manga presents untold stories of Captain Gundam, Bakunetsumaru, Zero, Zapper Zaku, Grappler Gouf and Destroyer Dom. The sidestory, SD Gundam Force Emaki Musharetsuden, is set in the land of Ark and focuses on a band of heroic Musha Gundams.

Trivia

• Although Gundam SEED had previously used the cel-shading animation technique, this is the first Gundam TV series to use it in the entire show.
• SDGF holds the distinction of being the first Gundam show to receive it's world premiere in the US and having the longest run of any Gundam series (52 episodes).
• A common misconception is that the show is solely an American creation. Whilst the series was designed with the American market in mind and premiered there it was animated in Japan and was always intended to be marketable to both Western and Eastern markets and the Japanese premier followed soon after the American one. A similar criticism is the belief that the series is not 'true' Gundam and instead a 'neutered' child friendly attempt. Many who make this claim are unfamiliar with the existing SD Gundam franchise (which SDGF draws from heavily) and believe that Gundam focuses solely on the military dramas that have been the franchise's focus in Western areas. Additionally, although presented as being a multi-generational franchise, Gundam is commonly seen in Japan (like most anime) as a kids series.

Cast & Crew

English Cast

• Shute - Deborah Sale Butler
• Captain Gundam, Grappler Gouf - Doug Erholtz
• Bakunetsumaru - Yuri Lowenthal
• GunEagle - Dave Wittenberg
• Mayor Margaret Gathermoon, Noah - Philece Sampler
• Tallgeese, Zakerello Gate: Paul St. Peter

Japanese Cast

• Shute - Paku Romi
• Sayla, Nana - Akiko Nakagawa
• Keiko - Aya Hisakawa
• Captain Gundam - Hiroshi Kamiya
• Bakunetsumaru - Susumu Chiba
• Zero - Mitsuki Saiga
• Genkimaru -Yumiko Kobayashi
• Gundiver - Kazuya Nakai
• Cobramaru - Kiyoyuki Yanada
• Daishogun - Juurouta Kosugi
• Commander Sazabi - Shuichi Ikeda
• Deathscythe - Kentaro Ito
• Professor Gerbera - Akio Otsuka

See also

• SD Gundam Force Emaki Musharetsuden

External Links/Sources

• Official SD Gundam Force site
• Official SD Gundam Force site (Japan)
• Gunota Headlines