Japan unveils top sci-fi anime of 2026 in official announcement
New Gundam Series Crowned Top Sci-Fi Anime in Japan
The latest installment in the iconic Mobile Suit Gundam franchise has been recognized as Japan’s top science fiction anime of the year. This achievement comes from the 45th Nihon SF Taisho Awards, an esteemed event that honors outstanding works in the science fiction and fantasy genres.
The Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of Japan (SFWJ) announced the winners for both the special prize and grand prize. While a collection of essays titled Ito Norito Hyoron Shusei, authored by scholar and translator Norio Ito, won the grand prize, the special prize went to Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX. This recognition highlights the growing popularity and critical acclaim of the new series within the Japanese sci-fi community.
The Judging Committee Behind the Award
The judging panel for the 45th Nihon SF Taisho Awards includes renowned novelists such as Naohiko Kitahara, Kei Zushi, Joji Hayashi, and Reiko Hikawa. Additionally, translator Nozomi Omori is part of the committee. The awards cover works released between September 1, 2024, and August 31, 2025, ensuring that the latest and most relevant contributions to the genre are acknowledged.
A New Era for Gundam
Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX is produced by Studio Khara and Sunrise, with direction by Kazuya Tsurumaki. It marks the first Gundam anime series set in the Universal Century calendar since Mobile Suit Victory Gundam in 1993. However, this version presents an alternate timeline where Char Aznable becomes the pilot of the RX-78-02 White Gundam, leading the Principality of Zeon to victory during the One Year War before vanishing.
Years later, Amate Yuzuriha, a young woman, finds herself thrust into the role of a Gundam pilot when she accidentally helps Char Aznable escape. This encounter opens her eyes to a hidden world of underground Gundam fighting that she had never known existed.
A New Beginning for the Franchise
In January 2025, fans were introduced to this fresh take on the Gundam universe through Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX: Beginning, an animated feature film that sets the stage for the broader series. The mainline Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX series premiered in April, drawing widespread excitement from audiences.
Both Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX: Beginning and the subsequent series have received overwhelmingly positive reviews. As of now, Beginning holds a 90% audience-generated “Popcornmeter” rating on Rotten Tomatoes, based on over 100 verified user reviews. Although neither the film nor the series currently have enough critical reviews to qualify for a “Tomatometer” score, they have been praised by critics. Out of nine verified critical reviews across both works, only one negative review exists for Beginning.
A Growing Legacy
With its unique storyline, engaging characters, and richly detailed world-building, Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX is setting a new standard for the franchise. Its recognition as Japan’s top sci-fi anime of the year underscores its significance in the evolving landscape of Japanese animation and science fiction. As the series continues to unfold, it promises to captivate fans and newcomers alike, solidifying its place in the legacy of the Gundam universe.
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