# New Gundam Series RG Xarx-Zero Aims to Redefine the Franchise's Legacy Ghost in the Shell director brings a revolutionary Gundam series to life. - **Source:** [Gizmodo](https://brifing.si/source/63382431-cef0-4c41-883e-2f88dc21351e) - **Published:** 2026-08-13 - **Topic:** [Business](https://brifing.si/c/business) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/e5d1be53-6c9a-45b8-982f-15a1b120d4f8 ## A New Era for Gundam Bandai Namco Filmworks unveiled the new Gundam series RG Xarx-Zero at San Diego Comic-Con. Directed by Kenji Kamiyama of Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex fame, the series will reboot the franchise's 47-year legacy with a fresh timeline. RG Xarx-Zero will also tie into a video game set a century after the anime's events, offering a unique cross-media experience for fans. ## The Story's Foundation RG Xarx-Zero's narrative begins with three discoveries from an Autonomous Interstellar Object: Gravity Control, FTL Communication, and Cognitive Materialization. These advancements usher in unprecedented prosperity for humanity. However, the object soon spirals out of control, creating an aggressive ecosystem dubbed 'The Apocalypse.' Forced to abandon Earth, humanity marks the year as A.A. 1 (After Apocalypse), setting the stage for a new struggle. ## A Fresh Protagonist The series follows Ray Azumi, a child born on the Moon who has never known life without The Apocalypse. Kamiyama intentionally named the protagonist 'Ray' to intuitively signal his role to viewers. A character clad in red will also appear, paying homage to Gundam's iconic antagonist tradition while offering new layers to the story. ## Gundam's Core Themes Kamiyama states that Gundam's simplest theme is 'anti-war,' but he aims to reexamine this idea through a contemporary lens. RG Xarx-Zero will explore why wars break out and their modern forms while delivering the spectacular robot battles fans expect. The director emphasizes balancing thought-provoking themes with visceral action. ## A Standalone Timeline RG Xarx-Zero operates in its own independent timeline, making it accessible to newcomers. While prior knowledge of characters like Amuro Ray and Char Aznable may enhance the experience, Kamiyama assures viewers that no homework is required. The series is designed to welcome both longtime fans and first-time viewers. ## The Meaning Behind the Name The title RG Xarx-Zero (pronounced 'Alex Zero') symbolizes starting the franchise's settings from scratch. Kamiyama explains that 'Xarx' and 'Zero' represent two equal, interconnected concepts—a design choice that will unfold as the series progresses. The name reflects his ambition to rethink Gundam's foundations while honoring its legacy. ## Animation Innovations RG Xarx-Zero will blend 2D and CGI animation to create its mecha battles. Kamiyama highlights the team's focus on using CGI and dynamic camerawork to emulate the cel-animated feel of classic Gundam. Collaborating with SOLA Animation and SUNRISE, the production aims to redefine how Gundams move on screen. ## The Franchise's Future RG Xarx-Zero represents a bold step forward for the Gundam franchise, thematically and visually. Kamiyama's vision seeks to attract not only mecha enthusiasts but also viewers craving deep storytelling. This series could redefine what Gundam means for a new generation, blending its anti-war roots with fresh perspectives on conflict. ## Sources covering this story - https://gizmodo.com/mobile-suit-gundam-rg-xar-zero-anime-kenji-kamiyama-interview-2000798266 — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._