View source for Mobile Suit Gundam SEED

{{short description|Anime series and spinoffs}}
{{good article}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=February 2012}}
{{Infobox animanga/Header
| name = Mobile Suit Gundam SEED
| image = Seedfirstdvd.jpg
| caption = Cover of the first ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED'' DVD volume featuring [[Kira Yamato]] and his first mobile suit, GAT-X105 Strike Gundam, in the background
| ja_kanji = 機動戦士ガンダム{{ruby|SEED|シード}}
| ja_romaji = Kidō Senshi Gandamu Shīdo
| genre = [[Mecha]], [[military science fiction]], [[Romance film|romance]]
| creator = [[Hajime Yatate]]<br />[[Yoshiyuki Tomino]]
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Video
| type            = tv series
| director        = [[Mitsuo Fukuda]]
| producer        =
| writer          = [[Chiaki Morosawa]]
| music           = [[Toshihiko Sahashi]]
| studio          = [[Sunrise (company)|Sunrise]]
| licensee        = {{English anime licensee
  | AUS = [[Madman Entertainment]]
  | NA  = [[Sunrise (company)|Sunrise]]
  | UK  = [[Anime Limited]]
         
}}
| network         = [[Japan News Network|JNN]] ([[MBS TV|MBS]], [[Tokyo Broadcasting System Television|TBS]])
| network_en      = {{English anime network
  | AUS = [[Adult Swim (Australian TV programming block)|Adult Swim]]
  | CA  = [[YTV (Canadian TV channel)|YTV]]
  | UK  = [[AnimeCentral]]
  | US  = [[Cartoon Network]] ([[Toonami]])
  | ZA  = [[Animax#South Africa|Animax]]
}}
| first           = October 5, 2002
| last            = September 27, 2003
| episodes        = 50
| episode_list    = List of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED episodes
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Video
| type            = ova
| title           = After Phase: In the Valley of Stars
| director        = [[Mitsuo Fukuda]]
| producer        =
| writer          =
| music           =
| studio          = [[Sunrise (company)|Sunrise]]
| licensee        = {{English anime licensee|NA= Sunrise}}
| released        = March 26, 2004
| runtime         = 5 minutes
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Print
| type         = manga
| author       = Masatsugu Iwase
| publisher    = [[Kodansha]]
| publisher_en = {{English manga publisher
| NA  = [[Del Rey Manga]]}}
| imprint      =
| magazine     = [[Magazine Z]]
| first        = March 20, 2003
| last         = January 21, 2005
| volumes      = 5 
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Print
| type         = novel series
| author       = Riu Goto
| illustrator  =
| publisher    = [[Kadokawa Shoten]]
| publisher_en = {{English manga publisher
  | NA  = [[Tokyopop]]
}}
| imprint      = [[Kadokawa Sneaker Bunko]]
| magazine     = 
| first        = 2005
| last         = 2006
| volumes      = 5
| volume_list  =  
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Print
| type        = manga
| title       = Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Re:
| author      = Juu Ishiguchi
| publisher   = [[Kadokawa Shoten]]
| magazine    = [[Gundam Ace]]
| first       = March 26, 2012
| last        = April 2014
| volumes     = 3 (+6 uncollected chapters)
| volume_list = 
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Other
| title           = Related
| content         =
* ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: Special Edition]]'' (films)
* ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny]]'' (sequel)
* ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom]]'' (film)
}}
{{Infobox animanga/Footer}}

{{Nihongo|'''''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED'''''|機動戦士ガンダム{{ruby|SEED|シード}}|Kidō Senshi Gandamu Shīdo|lead=yes}} is an [[anime]] series developed by [[Sunrise (company)|Sunrise]] and directed by [[Mitsuo Fukuda]]. The ninth installment in the ''[[Gundam]]'' franchise, ''Gundam SEED'' takes place in a future [[calendar era]], in this case the Cosmic Era. In this era, mankind has developed into two [[subspecies]]: Naturals, who reside on Earth, and Coordinators, genetically enhanced humans capable of amazing feats of intellect who emigrate to man-made orbital colonies to escape persecution by natural humans. The story revolves around a young Coordinator [[Kira Yamato]] who becomes involved in the war between the two races after a third, neutral faction's [[Space colonization|
space colony]] is invaded by the Coordinators.

The television series was broadcast in Japan between 2002 and 2003, on the [[Tokyo Broadcasting System Television]] and [[MBS TV]] networks, beginning a broadcast partnership with the ''Gundam'' franchise. The series spawned three compilations films and was adapted into a [[manga]] as well as [[light novels]]. A sequel series, ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny]]'' followed in 2004 and a followup film, ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom]]'' was released in 2024. Merchandise has been released, including models, CD soundtracks and video games. ''Gundam SEED'' was licensed by Bandai Entertainment for broadcast in North America, and began airing in the United States and Canada in 2004. The films and the sequel were also licensed by Bandai. The manga and light novels as well as the spin-off series, ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Astray]]'', were licensed. Video games were released in North America. In 2011, a HD remaster of the series consisting of 48 episodes was released.

''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED'' was widely popular with the public in Japan, winning numerous awards, with high sales of the series DVD and music. It was also a critical success with writers focusing on the character development and animation especially the leads. However, similarities with previous Gundam series were noted.

==Plot==
{{See also|List of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED characters}}
The series is the first of the Gundam franchise set in the "Cosmic Era" in which mankind is divided between normal Earth dwelling humans, known as "Naturals", and the genetically altered super-humans known as "Coordinators". The primary conflict of the story plot derives from jealous hatred by Naturals of the abilities of Coordinators, leading to hate crimes, and eventually the emigration of almost all Coordinators who flee into space to live idyllic lives on giant orbital space colonies called PLANTS of their own design. War eventually breaks out between Earth and the PLANTS. The Earth is divided between two major factions, the Earth Forces formed from most of the natural born human nations, primarily the Eurasians and the Atlantic Federation, and a natural human supremacist group known as Blue Cosmos with its slogan, "For the preservation of our blue and pure world". The Earth Forces are not a unified alliance, and infighting and mistrust exist between their various nation states. The second major Earth nation is the Orb Union, a staunchly politically neutral and isolationist nation located on small Pacific Ocean islands ruled by a hereditary monarchy and still contains Coordinator citizens.

Two major events precede the story, known as the Bloody Valentine tragedy that initiated war between the PLANTS and the Earth Forces when one of the PLANT space stations, Junius-7, is destroyed by a nuclear bomb. The second event is the counterattack by the PLANTS that buries Neutron Jammers deep into Earth's crust that halts all nuclear reactions and long range radar and radio, causing most areas of earth to go without electricity or communication, and requiring mobile suits to rely on rechargeable batteries.

The PLANTS are a technological power house, developing many new technologies that give them equal power to Earth despite their very small population.  It is the invention of the Mobile Suits that give their military the edge in the beginning of the war.

The story begins in the neutral Orb Union owned space colony Heliopolis, where five advanced mobile suits for the Earth Forces war effort are developed in secret in exchange of sharing of their technical data with the neutral Orb Union military. Additionally, Heliopolis constructs a unique carrier battleship, the Archangel, to base the five mobile suits from for the Earth Forces. The colony is attacked by ZAFT forces, the military of the PLANTS, with the objective of stealing the new units. During the incursion an Orb Union student and Coordinator named [[Kira Yamato]], upon seeing his friends in danger, pilots the GAT-X105 Strike mobile suit to fend off the invaders but the colony is critically damaged in the ensuing fight.<ref name="animefringe"/> As Heliopolis disintegrates, the survivors board the Archangel, and begin their journey to the Alliance base in Alaska.<ref>{{cite book |last=Fujie |first=Kazuhisa |author2=Martin Foster |title=The Gundam Explorer: Wing, First, G, Seed and More!|publisher=[[DH Publishing]] |year=2004 |page=139|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=FW22Qpvilz0C&q=gundam+seed&pg=PA119 |isbn=978-0-9723124-8-6 }}</ref> During the journey to Earth, Kira pilots the Strike to counter a series of attacks by ZAFT but is seemingly killed by his childhood friend, ZAFT soldier [[Athrun Zala]], during one of their battles in which he also is nearly killed.<ref name="ukfifth">{{cite web |title=Anime Review: Gundam Seed Vol. 5–6|url=http://www.uk-anime.net/anime/Gundam_Seed_Vol._5_&_6.html|date=September 25, 2005 |author=Liversidge, Ross|publisher=UK Anime Network|access-date=April 14, 2011}}</ref> Kira survives the attack and is taken by a blind priest to one of the PLANT space colonies, home to the Coordinators to recover. The Archangel arrives in Alaska but ZAFT launches a full-scale attack on the base overpowering their enemies. Unknown to ZAFT, the Earth forces knew of this attack ahead of time. They planned to sacrifice the Alaska base along with the Archangel in order to destroy ZAFT's army using a weapon of mass destruction hidden underneath the Alaska base.<ref name="seventhmania"/>

Kira goes to Alaska with the ZGMF-X10A Freedom, a highly advanced, nuclear powered, and Neutron Jammer proof ZAFT mobile suit stolen by the PLANT pop star Coordinator [[Lacus Clyne]], daughter of PLANT Supreme Council Chairman [[List of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED characters#Siegel Clyne|Siegel Clyne]]. Using the Freedom, Kira is able to help the Archangel flee the destruction of the Alaska base. The Archangel flees to the neutral country of the Orb Union. The Archangel and a new ship, the Orb Union ship Kusanagi leave Earth for space where they then join Lacus Clyne's rebel faction and their stolen ZAFT battleship, the Eternal (meant to carry the Freedom and Justice mobile suits) to form the Three Ships Alliance with the common goal of ending the war between the Naturals and Coordinators. In the midst of the conflict, Athrun learns that Kira survived and searches for him under orders to recover the Freedom Gundam, and is given an equally powerful prototype, the ZGMF-X09A Justice.<ref>{{cite web|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Vol. #08|url=http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-08_article_77970.html|date=March 22, 2006|author=Wolstenholm, Kim|publisher=Mania Entertainment|access-date=May 1, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101211190218/http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-08_article_77970.html|archive-date=December 11, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref> However, after learning of [[List of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED characters#Patrick Zala|Patrick Zala]]'s, Athrun's father and the radical militant faction leader of the PLANT Supreme Council, plan to commit genocide, Athrun deserts him and joins the Three Ships Alliance.<ref name="uklast"/> In a final battle, the Earth Forces deploys nuclear weapons equipped with Neutron Jammer Canceler technology copied from stolen data on the Freedom and Justice Gundam's power systems. The Earth Forces intend to destroy the PLANT space colonies but are stopped by ZAFT's GENESIS, a [[Nuclear pumped laser|nuclear pumped]] [[Gamma-ray laser|gamma ray laser]] designed to commit genocide on the Naturals. The Three Ship Alliance intervenes to defeat the GENESIS weapon ending the battle. The war ultimately ends as a [[peace treaty]] is signed.<ref name="Timeline">{{cite web |url=http://www.gundamofficial.com/worlds/ce/background/timeline.html |title=Cosmic Era timeline (C.E. 55) |access-date=April 14, 2007|publisher=GundamOfficial|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120309021828/http://www.gundamofficial.com/worlds/ce/background/timeline.html|archive-date=March 9, 2012 }}</ref>

==Development==
[[File:WTC smoking on 9-11.jpeg|thumb|left|The theme of war was influenced by the terrorist attacks from 2001 and how the characters fight to avoid more chaos.]]
''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED'' was directed by [[Mitsuo Fukuda]] (''[[Future GPX Cyber Formula]]'' and ''[[Gear Fighter Dendoh]]'') with music by [[Toshihiko Sahashi]].<ref name="credits"/> A long time Gundam fan, Fukuda met the president of Sunrise in order let him work in his anime series based on the franchise, stating he had no previous experience with it. Shortly afterwards, the staff members from Sunrise believed Fukuda was worthy of directing the new Gundam anime. Fukuda conceived ''SEED'' as one of the biggest projects in his career, noting that it was difficult for him as a result as he worked under pressure. However, when the series started, Fukuda was relieved that it had strong ratings and merchandising
. In the making of the series, Fukuda first wrote an idea for the premise and the use of mechas fighting. In order to write human drama, Fukuda conceived the idea of the struggle between two kind of races, the Naturals and the Coordinators who would be explored in the television series which was inspired by [[Yoshiyuki Tomino]]'s Newtype concept from the [[Mobile Suit Gundam|first Gundam series]]. While the narrative of ''SEED'' often makes parallels with Tomino's ''Gundam'', Fukuda wanted ''SEED'' to feature a more "modern war" setting. The producer of the series suggested using the 1998 film ''[[Saving Private Ryan]]'' as a reference to explore the concept of war. Some areas from the storyboards were scrapped because the staff found the original plot to be too violent.<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Anime Insider|issue=Fall 2004|pages=47–48|publisher=Wizard Entertainment|issn=1547-3767}}</ref>

When the series started development, Fukuda noticed the world was in chaos as a result of the [[September 11 attacks]]. This influenced the themes of ''Gundam SEED'' featuring [[anti-war movement]] themes through the pacifist Kira Yamato; Fukuda based hime concept of an Islamic soldier fighting in the US military. The setting in which the mechanics that appear are powered by electricity was influenced by ''[[Gear Fighter Dendoh]]'' which Fukuda previously directed, and when it came to handling the Gundam, he focused on its aspect as a symbol of the character piloting it.<ref>{{cite book |last=Ofisu |first=J.B. |title=『機動戦士ガンダムSEED コズミック・イラ メカニック&ワールド』双葉社、 |publisher=[[Futabasha]] |year=2012 |isbn=978-4-575-46469-6 |pages=263–269}}</ref>

The series was first announced in June&nbsp;2002, while a trailer was available in September on the series' official website.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2002-07-13/gundam-seed-on-tv-in-october |title=Gundam Seed on TV in October|date=July 13, 2002 |publisher= [[Anime News Network]] |access-date=June 1, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2002-09-03/gundam-seed-trailer|title=Gundam Seed Trailer|date=September 3, 2002 |publisher= [[Anime News Network]] |access-date=June 1, 2011}}</ref> A total of eight writers were in charge of the series. The characters were designed by Hisashi Hirai, while the mechanical designs were made by [[Kunio Okawara]] and Kimitoshi Yamane.<ref name="credits">{{cite web |url=http://www.gundamofficial.com/worlds/ce/seed/credits/index.html |title=Credits |access-date=August 11, 2009|work=GundamOfficial |publisher=[[Bandai]] America Incorporated|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110525105014/http://www.gundamofficial.com/worlds/ce/seed/credits/index.html|archive-date=May 25, 2011}}</ref> ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam]]'' planning manager Koichi Inoue stated that the staff making ''Gundam SEED'' was a new and young team that would continue working with following Gundam series. Inoue, however, would work with anime based on the original Gundam series.<ref>{{cite journal|author=''GameAxis Unwired'' staff|date=September 2004|url=https://books.google.com/books?id=G-kDAAAAMBAJ&q=Gundam+SEED&pg=PT42|title=Comics Fever Strikes Hong Kong!|journal=GameAxis Unwired|publisher=[[Singapore Press Holdings]]|issn=0219-872X|access-date=May 30, 2011}}</ref>

Fukuda stated that ''Gundam SEED'' was initially told from Kira's point of view, but deeper into the series the point of view would shift to other characters. His main focus with the series was to entertain the audience, pointing out that the drama would develop through the series in a similar vein to previous Gundam series. The first part worked on was the plot followed by action sequences, stating that the human characters were more important than the combat sequences.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gundam-seed.net/special/interview/inter_01.html|script-title=ja:福田監督インタビュー|access-date=May 1, 2011|publisher=Sunrise|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070703091348/http://www.gundam-seed.net/special/interview/inter_01.html|archive-date=July 3, 2007 }}</ref> In retrospect, Fukuda said that Kira's wish to fight was forced upon him stemming from his desire to protect his friends. Moreover, he considered these actions as being based on Japanese thoughts.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gundam-seed-d.net/special/inter_01.html|script-title=ja:福田己津央 監督インタビュー 04.0925|access-date=May 4, 2011|publisher=Sunrise|language=ja|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080111183039/http://www.gundam-seed-d.net/special/inter_01.html|archive-date=January 11, 2008}}</ref>

==Media==

===Anime===
{{See also|List of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED episodes}}
The series premiered in Japan on the [[terrestrial television|terrestrial]] [[Tokyo Broadcasting System]] and [[Mainichi Broadcasting System]] networks, where it occupied the Saturday 6&nbsp;pm timeslot, replacing ''[[Ultraman Cosmos]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2002-10-05/october-anime-premieres-days-four-and-five |title=October Anime Premieres: Days Four and Five|date=October 5, 2002 |publisher= [[Anime News Network]] |access-date=August 11, 2009}}</ref> ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED'' aired between October&nbsp;5,&nbsp;2002, and September&nbsp;27,&nbsp;2003.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000GT87NM/|title=''Mobile Suit Gundam Seed'' Watch other Episodes from Season 1|website=Amazon|access-date=April 25, 2011|archive-date=January 26, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120126135853/http://www.amazon.com/Gathering-Darkness/dp/B000GT87NM|url-status=dead|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Each episode was streamed on the Internet the day after broadcast, for users subscribing to [[Nippon Telegraph and Telephone]] services, in [[Advanced Systems Format|Windows Media]] or [[RealVideo|Real]] format.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsservice.com/archives/oct4.htm |title=Gundam Broadband Streaming Moves Ahead In Japan |publisher=Anime News Service |access-date=August 11, 2009 |archive-date=October 2, 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131002192346/http://www.animenewsservice.com/archives/oct4.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> The series was sold in Japan as thirteen DVD volumes released from March&nbsp;28,&nbsp;2003 to March&nbsp;26,&nbsp;2004.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=BCBA-1571|title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED 1 |publisher=CDJapan|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref><ref name="seedlast">{{cite web |url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=BCBA-1590|title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED 13 |publisher=CDJapan|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> On March&nbsp;26,&nbsp;2004, a five-minute epilogue called ''After Phase: In the Valley of Stars'' was released on the thirteenth and final DVD of the Japanese release.<ref name="seedlast"/> A DVD box set of the series was released on February&nbsp;23,&nbsp;2010.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=BCBA-3804|title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED DVD Box |publisher=CDJapan|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> A fifty-episode sequel titled ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny]]'' aired in Japan from October&nbsp;9,&nbsp;2004 to October&nbsp;1,&nbsp;2005, airing on the same stations as ''Gundam SEED''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gundamofficial.com/worlds/ce/destiny/credits/index.html |title=Destiny Credits |access-date=March 23, 2008|work=GundamOfficial |publisher=Bandai America Incorporated|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120904073807/http://www.gundamofficial.com/worlds/ce/destiny/credits/index.html|archive-date=September 4, 2012}}</ref> ''Gundam SEED Destiny'' takes place two years after the original series and follows [[Shinn Asuka]], focusing mainly on his involvement in the new war.<ref>{{cite journal |title=Destiny Fulfilled|url=http://www.animefringe.com/magazine/2005/03/feature/04.php|date=March 2005|author=Lin, Maria|journal=Animefringe |volume=3 |issue=11|access-date=April 19, 2011}}</ref>

An HD remaster edition of the series was confirmed in August 2011 although Mitsuo Fukuda stated it was leaked information and that the official information would come in the next few days.<ref>{{cite web |title=Gundam Seed HD Remaster Project to Launch|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2011-08-23/gundam-seed-hd-remaster-project-to-launch|publisher=Anime News Network|date=August 23, 2011|access-date=August 23, 2011}}</ref> In November 2011, Bandai announced the release of the series in four Blu-ray compilations between March and December 2012. The HD version was first streamed on the Bandai Channel website in December 2011 and aired in Japan between January and November 2012.<ref>{{cite web |title=Gundam Seed HD Remaster Slated for December|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2011-11-04/gundam-seed-hd-remaster-slated-for-december|publisher=Anime News Network|date=November 4, 2011|access-date=November 21, 2011}}</ref>

[[Bandai Entertainment]] licensed the animation of ''Gundam SEED'' on February 15, 2004, and it began airing in the United States and Canada that same year.<ref name="Bandai Announces Gundam Seed">{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2004-02-17/bandai-announces-gundam-seed|title=Bandai Announces Gundam Seed|access-date=August 9, 2009|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Bandai And YTV Bring Anime Programming to Canada |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2004-09-10/bandai-and-ytv-bring-anime-programming-to-canada |website=[[Anime News Network]] |access-date=3 February 2022 |language=en}}</ref> The English adaptation was produced in association with [[The Ocean Group]] and the English-language dub was recorded at Ocean Studios in [[Vancouver|Vancouver, British Columbia]], Canada.<ref name="credits"/> The series was released on ten DVDs in bilingual format between August&nbsp;10,&nbsp;2004, and May&nbsp;10,&nbsp;2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-01-also-wbox_article_76298.html|title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Vol. No. 01|publisher=Mania Entertainment|access-date=August 11, 2009|last=Beveridge|first=Chris|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110810213110/http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-01-also-wbox_article_76298.html|archive-date=August 10, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-10_article_76919.html |title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Vol. No. 10 |publisher=Mania Entertainment |access-date=August 11, 2009 |last=Beveridge |first=Chris |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081205000341/http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-10_article_76919.html |archive-date=December 5, 2008 |df=mdy-all }}</ref> The epilogue was not released on the North American DVD release because it was not licensed to Bandai Entertainment by Sunrise;<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/convention/2005/katsucon/2 |title=2005 – Bandai Entertainment – Katsucon |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |access-date=August 11, 2009}}</ref> however, it was released on the final European DVD release.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-10_article_78234.html|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Vol. No. 10|publisher=Mania Entertainment|access-date=August 11, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090728073940/http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-10_article_78234.html|archive-date=July 28, 2009|df=mdy-all}}</ref> [[Beez Entertainment]] also published the series in ten DVDs from June&nbsp;13,&nbsp;2005 to March&nbsp;6,&nbsp;2006.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0009J2QLS/|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed – Vol. 1 |website=Amazon UK |date=June 13, 2005 |access-date=June 4, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000DZIETG/|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed – Vol. 10 |website=Amazon UK |date=March 6, 2006 |access-date=June 4, 2011}}</ref> A two part box set called the "Anime Legends Edition" was released on January&nbsp;8,&nbsp;2008, and March&nbsp;4,&nbsp;2008, with each set containing five DVDs.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-collection-1-anime-legends-edition_article_80036.html|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Collection 1 (Anime Legends Edition)|publisher=Mania Entertainment|access-date=January 5, 2008|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080726093930/http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-collection-1-anime-legends-edition_article_80036.html|archive-date=July 26, 2008|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-collection-2-anime-legends-edition_article_80062.html|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Collection 2 (Anime Legends Edition)|publisher=Mania Entertainment|access-date=August 11, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100305075400/http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-collection-2-anime-legends-edition_article_80062.html|archive-date=March 5, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref>

On October 11, 2014, at their 2014 [[New York Comic Con]] panel, Sunrise announced they will be re-releasing all of the ''Gundam'' franchise, including ''Gundam SEED'' and ''Gundam SEED Destiny'' in North America though distribution from [[Right Stuf Inc.]], beginning in Spring 2015.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2014-10-11/sunrise-partners-with-right-stuf-to-release-gundam-franchise-stateside/.79830|title=Sunrise Partners with Right Stuf to Release Gundam Franchise Stateside|publisher= [[Anime News Network]]|date=2014-10-11|access-date=2014-10-12}}</ref> On August 11, 2017, at their 2017 [[Otakon]] panel, Sunrise  announced that they will be releasing the HD remaster of SEED in North America with a brand new English dub produced by [[NYAV Post]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2017-08-11/sunrise-to-release-gundam-seed-gundam-seed-destiny-with-new-english-dub/.120036|title=Sunrise to release Gundam SEED, Destiny with New English Dub|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|date=August 11, 2017|access-date=August 11, 2017}}</ref> It was released on December 1, 2020.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2020-12-01 |title=North American Anime, Manga Releases, November 29-December 5 |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2020-12-01/north-american-anime-manga-releases-november-29-december-5/.166910 |access-date=2023-08-08 |website=Anime News Network |language=en}}</ref>

===Films===
{{main|Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: Special Edition|Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom}}
A three-part film compilation of the television series has been released as ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: Special Edition''. Each compilation film is 90&nbsp;minutes long and retells the story of ''Gundam SEED'', with additional and altered scenes from the TV series. ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny]]'' followed the same formula in four compilation films as ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny: Special Edition]]''. They were released from August&nbsp;27 to October&nbsp;22 during 2004 in DVD format.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=BCBA-1925|title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Special Edition Kanketsu Hen – Meidou no Sora |publisher=CDJapan|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=BCBA-1927|title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED 13 |publisher=CDJapan|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> The three films were re-released alongside the four films from ''Gundam SEED Destiny'' on February&nbsp;25,&nbsp;2010.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=BCBA-4056|title=G-SELECTION Mobile Suit Gundam SEED / SEED DESTINY Special Edition DVD Box |publisher=CDJapan|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> ''Gundam SEED: Special Edition'' has been licensed for North America by [[Bandai Entertainment]] and was released on DVDs in English, between July&nbsp;11,&nbsp;2005,<ref name="movie1">{{cite web |url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_detailsdfca.html?id=464 |title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: Movie I – The Empty Battlefield |access-date=November 22, 2007|publisher=[[Bandai Entertainment]] |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080502045806/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_detailsdfca.html?id=464 |archive-date = May 2, 2008}}</ref> and November&nbsp;22,&nbsp;2005.<ref name="movie3">{{cite web |url=http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details4565.html?id=504 |title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Movie III – The Rumbling Sky |access-date=November 22, 2007 |publisher=Bandai Entertainment |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20080502045713/http://www.bandai-ent.com/products/video_details4565.html?id=504 <!-- Bot retrieved archive --> |archive-date = May 2, 2008}}</ref> A DVD box of the three films was released by Bandai on November&nbsp;26,&nbsp;2008 under the title of "Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Complete Feature Collection".<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B000HT3880/|title=Complete Feature Collection: Mobile Suit Gundam Seed |website=Amazon |date=November 28, 2006 |access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref>

In addition, a new film entitled ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom]]'' was released in January 2024.

===Soundtracks===
{{Main|Music of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED}}
The music from the series is composed by [[Toshihiko Sahashi]] with CDs published by [[Victor Entertainment]]. Notable artists who sang opening and ending themes for the series include [[Nami Tamaki]], who was fourteen years old when the third opening theme was used, and [[T.M. Revolution]], who also provided the voice for the character, Miguel Aiman, under the artist's real name, Takanori Nishikawa.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2005-02-04/gundam-seed-destiny-theme-to-be-sung-by-15-year-old|title=Gundam Seed Destiny Theme to be Sung by 15-Year-Old|publisher=Anime News Network|access-date=June 4, 2011|date=February 4, 2005|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120722005639/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2005-02-04/gundam-seed-destiny-theme-to-be-sung-by-15-year-old |archive-date=2012-07-22}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2002-09-17/j-pop-star-to-voice-gundam-seed-character|title=J-Pop Star to Voice Gundam Seed Character |publisher=Anime News Network|access-date=June 4, 2011|date=September 17, 2002|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120729175651/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2002-09-17/j-pop-star-to-voice-gundam-seed-character|archive-date=2012-07-29}}</ref> Four original soundtracks were released between December&nbsp;4,&nbsp;2002 and December&nbsp;16,&nbsp;2004. They include background music, insert themes as well as some opening and ending themes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/-/Discography/-/VICL-61000.html|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK I by 佐橋俊彦| publisher=jvcmusic|language=ja|access-date=April 5, 2008|archive-url=https://archive.today/20080330034927/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/-/Discography/-/VICL-61000.html|archive-date=2008-03-30}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/-/Discography/A010090/VICL-61500.html|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED ORIGINAL SOUNDTRACK IV by 佐橋俊彦| publisher=jvcmusic|language=ja|access-date=April 5, 2008|archive-url=https://archive.today/20080529073729/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/-/Discography/A010090/VICL-61500.html|archive-date=2008-05-29}}</ref> ''Symphony SEED -Symphonic Suit Mobile Suit Gundam SEED-'' is a collaboration album between ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED'' music and the [[London Symphony Orchestra]] released on May&nbsp;8,&nbsp;2004 containing a total of ten tracks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/-/Discography/-/VICL-61400.html|title=Symphony SEED -交響組曲 機動戦士ガンダムSEED- by 佐橋俊彦 & ロンドンシンフォニーオーケストラ | publisher=jvcmusic|language=ja|access-date=May 7, 2008|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120905212525/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/flyingdog/-/Discography/-/VICL-61400.html|archive-date=2012-09-05}}</ref> A compilation DVD, featuring four music videos from ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED'' and ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny'',<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/-/Discography/A017069/VIBF-200.html|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED & SEED DESTINY Clipping 4 Songs by 有坂美香, See-Saw, FictionJunction Yuuka | publisher=jvcmusic|language=ja|access-date=April 6, 2008|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120907142301/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/flyingdog/-/Discography/A017069/VIBF-200.html|archive-date=2012-09-07}}</ref> was released on May&nbsp;24,&nbsp;2006 under the title ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED & SEED DESTINY Clipping 4 Songs''.
Five character CDs with themes performed by the Japanese voice actors were released between March&nbsp;21,&nbsp;2003 and July&nbsp;23,&nbsp;2003.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/-/Discography/-/VICL-61071.html|title=SUIT CD vol.1 STRIKE × KIRA YAMATO by キラ・ヤマト (保志 総一朗) & 佐橋俊彦 | publisher=jvcmusic|language=ja|access-date=May 7, 2008|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120909002511/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/flyingdog/-/Discography/-/VICL-61071.html|archive-date=2012-09-09}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/m-serve/-/Discography/A010090/VICL-61075.html|title=SUIT CD vol.5 ATHRUN × YZAK × DEARKA by イザーク・ジュール (関智一) & 佐橋俊彦 | publisher=jvcmusic|language=ja|access-date=May 8, 2008|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120804192919/http://www.jvcmusic.co.jp/flyingdog/-/Discography/A010090/VICL-61075.html|archive-date=2012-08-04}}</ref> Two compilation albums have also been released: ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED COMPLETE BEST'' was released on November&nbsp;22,&nbsp;2006, featuring thirteen tracks.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sonymusic.co.jp/Music/Arch/VA/Compilation/AICL-1489/index.html|
title=「機動戦士ガンダムSEED」COMPLETE BEST | publisher=jvcmusic|language=ja|access-date=April 27, 2008|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120911113714/http://www.sonymusic.co.jp/Music/Arch/VA/Compilation/AICL-1489/index.html|archive-date=2012-09-11}}</ref> ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED ~ SEED DESTINY BEST "THE BRIDGE" Across the Songs from GUNDAM SEED & SEED DESTINY'' is a two-CD compilation of ending themes, insert and character songs from ''Gundam SEED'' and ''Gundam SEED Destiny''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.sonymusic.co.jp/Music/Arch/VA/Compilation/SMCL-111/index.html|
title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED～SEED DESTINY THE BRIDGE Across the Songs from GUNDAM SEED & SEED DESTINY at | publisher=jvcmusic|language=ja|access-date=May 7, 2008|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130111174641/http://www.sonymusic.co.jp/Music/Arch/VA/Compilation/SMCL-111/index.html|archive-date=2013-01-11}}</ref> All the songs from ''Gundam SEED'' and ''Gundam SEED Destiny'' by T.M.Revolution were collected in a CD titled ''X42S-REVOLUTION'', released on March&nbsp;24,&nbsp;2010.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0031B67OI/|
title=X42S-REVOLUTION |language=ja|access-date=May 31, 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130218123746/http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0031B67OI/|archive-date=2013-02-18}}</ref> The limited edition version includes a DVD with music videos from the anime series.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0031B67RA/|
title=X42S-REVOLUTION(初回生産限定盤B)(DVD付)|language=ja|access-date=May 31, 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130220235140/http://www.amazon.co.jp/dp/B0031B67RA/|archive-date=2013-02-20}}</ref> Two other CD singles were released during 2012 featuring the new theme songs from the HD rerelease of ''Gundam SEED''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VTCL-35126|
title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Reunion Series 1: Anna ni Issho Dattanoni - ReTracks| publisher=CDJapan|language=ja|access-date=October 10, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130220232724/http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VTCL-35126|archive-date=2013-02-20}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VTCL-35138|
title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Reunion Series 2: Akatsuki no Kuruma - ReTracks/Mizu no Akashi - ReTracks| publisher=CDJapan|language=ja|access-date=October 10, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130218153408/http://www.cdjapan.co.jp/detailview.html?KEY=VTCL-35138|archive-date=2013-02-18}}</ref>

===Manga===
A [[manga]] series was written by Masatsugu Iwase based on the events from the anime series. It was published in five ''[[tankōbon]]'' volumes from March&nbsp;20,&nbsp;2003 to January&nbsp;21,&nbsp;2005 by [[Kodansha]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3491242|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED（1）|publisher=Kodansha|language=ja|access-date=May 29, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120927195251/http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3491242|archive-date=September 27, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3491927|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED（5）|publisher=Kodansha|language=ja|access-date=May 29, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928093459/http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3491927|archive-date=September 28, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref> The English version was published in North America by [[Del Rey Manga]] who licensed it in January&nbsp;2004 as one of their first titles,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-01-09/del-rey-manga-dates |title=Del Rey Manga Dates |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |date=January 9, 2004 |access-date=May 21, 2008 }}</ref> and released between April&nbsp;27,&nbsp;2004 and August&nbsp;30,&nbsp;2005.<ref>{{cite book |title=Gundam SEED Vol. 1: Mobile Suit Gundam|isbn=0345470451|last1=Iwase|first1=Masatsugu|last2=Yadate|first2=Hajime|last3=Tomino|first3=Yoshiyuki|year=2004|publisher=Del Ray }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Gundam SEED Vol. 5: Mobile Suit Gundam|isbn=0345477952|last1=Iwase|first1=Masatsugu|last2=Yadate|first2=Hajime|last3=Tomino|first3=Yoshiyuki|year=2005|publisher=Random House Publishing }}</ref> Another spin-off series is ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Astray'', written by Tomohiro Chiba and illustrated by [[Kōichi Tokita]], which focused on the three MBF-P0x mobile suit prototypes and their respective pilots and organizations. It was published in three ''tankōbon'' volumes from April&nbsp;28,&nbsp;2003 to February&nbsp;26,&nbsp;2004 by [[Kadokawa Shoten]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_search.php?pcd=200212000166|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED ASTRAY(1)|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=June 13, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20051122230724/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_search.php?pcd=200212000166|archive-date=November 22, 2005|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200310000290|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED ASTRAY(3)|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=September 8, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120908075543/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200310000290|url-status=dead}}</ref> The English release was announced by [[Tokyopop]] in December&nbsp;2003.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2003-12-19/tokyopop-licensing-update|title=Tokyopop Licensing Update|publisher=Anime News Network|date=December 19, 2003|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> The volumes were released between May&nbsp;11,&nbsp;2004 and November&nbsp;9,&nbsp;2004.<ref>{{cite book |title=Gundam Seed Astray (Gundam (Tokyopop) (Graphic Novels)), Vol. 1|isbn=1591829380|last1=Tokita|first1=Kouichi|last2=Chiba|first2=Tomohiro|date=May 11, 2004|publisher=TokyoPop }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0048EL8S2/|title=Gundam Seed Astray (Gundam (Tokyopop) (Graphic Novels)), Vol. 3|website=Amazon|date=November 9, 2004 |publisher=TokyoPop |access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> A one-volume manga titled {{nihongo|''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED featuring SUIT CD''|機動戦士ガンダムSEED featuring SUIT CD}} was written by Yasushi Yamaguchi and released on January&nbsp;22,&nbsp;2005 by Kadokawa.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200405000016|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED featuring SUIT CD|access-date=June 2, 2011|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|archive-date=September 11, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120911105536/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200405000016|url-status=dead}}</ref> In 2012, Kadokawa released a new manga series titled ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: Re'' by Juu Ishiguchi. The manga retells the events from the television series. It was cancelled in 2015. It was partially collected into three tankobon volumes.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=321205000136|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED Re: (1)|access-date=November 4, 2011|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|archive-date=February 18, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130218142512/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=321205000136|url-status=dead}}</ref>

Two more side stories titled ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Astray R'' and ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED X Astray'' were created. Toda Yasunari replaced Tokita as the illustrator in the former, while Tokita reprised his role in the latter. ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Astray R'' follows the adventures of the Red Frame's pilot Lowe and his Junk Guild associates and interlocks with the events of the original Astray-series. It spanned four volumes published from March&nbsp;20,&nbsp;2003 to August&nbsp;26,&nbsp;2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200211000230|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED ASTRAY R (1)|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=September 6, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120906130125/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200211000230|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200406000054|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED ASTRAY R (4)|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=September 5, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120905014438/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200406000054|url-status=dead}}</ref> The English volumes published by TokyoPop were released from February&nbsp;8,&nbsp;2005 to November&nbsp;8,&nbsp;2005.<ref>{{cite book |title=Gundam Seed Astray R (Gundam (Tokyopop) (Graphic Novels)), Vol. 1|isbn=159532576X|last1=Yatate|first1=Hajime|last2=Chiba|first2=Tomohiro|date=February 8, 2005|publisher=TokyoPop }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Gundam Seed Astray R (Gundam (Tokyopop) (Graphic Novels)), Vol. 4|isbn=1595329978|last1=Yatate|first1=Hajime|last2=Chiba|first2=Tomohiro|date=November 8, 2005|publisher=TokyoPop }}</ref> ''Gundam SEED X Astray'' is about Canard Pars, who is a failed experiment from the Ultimate Coordinator program. Canard is searching for Kira Yamato, the successful Ultimate Coordinator, so that he can defeat him and prove he was not a "failure". Two volumes were published for the series in May and October,&nbsp;2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200403000114|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED X ASTRAY (1)|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=August 2, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120802215237/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200403000114|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200403000201|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED X ASTRAY (2)|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=September 3, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120903213131/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200403000201|url-status=dead}}</ref> TokyoPop published its two volumes on October&nbsp;31,&nbsp;2006 and February&nbsp;27,&nbsp;2007.<ref>{{cite book |title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED X ASTRAY Volume 1|isbn=1598166492|last1=Yatate|first1=Hajime|last2=Chiba|first2=Tomohiro|date=November 7, 2006|publisher=TokyoPop }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |url=https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0048EL8S2/|title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED X ASTRAY Volume 2|date=November 9, 2004|publisher=TokyoPop|access-date=May 29, 2011}}</ref> There was a "photo novel" side story titled ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Astray B'' which was illustrated by Toda Yasunari. A single volume from the series was published on August&nbsp;31,&nbsp;2005 and follows Gai Murakumo and his fellow Serpent Tail mercenaries.<ref>{{cite book |title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED B|language=ja|id={{ASIN|4840231990|country=jp}}}}</ref>

There is [[yonkoma]] series titled ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Club Yonkoma'' that parodies the events from both ''Gundam SEED'' and ''Gundam SEED Destiny''. The comics were a joint venture between Sunrise's official ''Gundam SEED'' fan club and ''Newtype'' Japanese magazine. Kadokawa Shoten released the first publications of the yonkoma on August&nbsp;8,&nbsp;2005.<ref>{{cite book |title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED SEED Club 4コマ (100%コミックス)|language=ja|id={{ASIN|4048538896|country=jp}}}}</ref>

===Light novels===
A light novel adaptation of the TV series was authored by Riu Goto. It was originally a supplement of [[Kadokawa Sneaker Bunko]] with illustrations by Ogasawara Tomofumi. The stories were eventually published in five volumes by [[Kadokawa Shoten]] with the first one in March&nbsp;2003 and the fifth in January&nbsp;2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200006000217|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED〈1〉すれ違う翼|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=May 29, 2011|archive-date=October 4, 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171004135719/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/product/200006000217/|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200303000357|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED 5 終わらない明日へ|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=May 29, 2011|archive-date=September 4, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120904233840/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200303000357|url-status=dead}}</ref> [[Tokyopop]] released the first three light novels in North America from October&nbsp;11,&nbsp;2005 to May&nbsp;9,&nbsp;2006.<ref>{{cite book |title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed, Vol. 1: Divergent Strike |isbn=1595328815 |last1=Yatate |first1=Hajime |last2=Goto |first2=Liu |date=October 11, 2005 |publisher=TokyoPop }}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED (Novel) Volume 3 |isbn=1595328831 |last1=Yatate |first1=Hajime |last2=Goto |first2=Liu |date=May 9, 2006 |publisher=TokyoPop }}</ref> Two light novels volumes from ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Astray'' spin-off series were also authored by Tomohiro Chiba and published by Kadokawa on September&nbsp;1,&nbsp;2003 and July&nbsp;1,&nbsp;2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200301000098|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED ASTRAY (1)|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=June 12, 2011|archive-date=September 3, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120903235020/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200301000098|url-status=dead}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200301000099|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED ASTRAY (2)|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|access-date=June 12, 2011|archive-date=August 4, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120804203225/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/lnovel/bk_detail.php?pcd=200301000099|url-status=dead}}</ref>

===Video games===
{{See also|List of Gundam video games}}
Video games have been released based on the anime series: ''Gundam Seed: Federation vs. Z.A.F.T. II'' for [[Arcade game|arcade]]s,  {{nihongo|''Mobile Suit Gundam Seed: Tomo to Kimi to Senjou de''|機動戦士ガンダムSEED: 友と君と戦場で||lit. "Friends and Foes on the Battlefield"}} and ''[[Gundam Battle Assault#Gundam Seed: Battle Assault|Gundam Seed: Battle Assault]]'' for the [[Game Boy Advance]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/gundam-seed-battle-assault-3-e3-2004-preshow-first-look/1100-6096459/|title=Gundam Seed: Battle Assault 3 E3 2004 Preshow First Look|publisher=GameSpot|author=Navarro, Alex|date=May 12, 2004 |access-date=January 3, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bandaigames.channel.or.jp/list/seedadv/game/index.html|title=Game Information|publisher=Bandai Games|access-date=June 10, 2011|language=ja}}</ref> ''[[Gundam Seed: Federation vs. Z.A.F.T.]]'', ''Mobile Suit Gundam Seed'', ''Mobile Suit Gundam Seed: Never Ending Tomorrow'', ''Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Destiny: Generation of CE'', and ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Destiny: Federation vs. Z.A.F.T. II#Gundam Seed: Federation vs. Z.A.F.T. II P.L.U.S.|Gundam Seed: Federation vs. Z.A.F.T. 2 Plus]]'' for [[PlayStation 2]],<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/tgs-2005-gundam-seed-federation-vs-zaft-hands-on/1100-6133759/|title=TGS 2005: Gundam Seed: Federation vs. ZAFT Hands-On |publisher=GameSpot|author=Gouskos, Carrie|date=September 17, 2005 |access-date=January 3, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gamespot.com/articles/gundam-seed-announced-for-the-playstation-2/1100-6024569/|title=Gundam Seed announced for the PlayStation 2 |publisher=GameSpot|date=April 3, 2003 |access-date=January 3, 2016}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.famitsu.com/game/event/2005/09/17/264,1126948826,43596,0,0.html|script-title=ja:【イベント】ガンダムバトルステージにアムロ・レイが登場！|date=September 17, 2005 |publisher=Famitsu|language=ja|access-date=April 24, 2011}}</ref> A [[PlayStation Portable]] game was also released under the title of ''[[Gundam Seed: Federation vs. Z.A.F.T.|Gundam Seed: Federation vs. Z.A.F.T. Portable]]''<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gamespot.com/psp/action/gundamseedrengouvszaftportable/similar.html?mode=versions|title=Gundam Seed Related Games|publisher=GameSpot|access-date=June 13, 2011|archive-date=January 23, 2013|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130123192429/http://www.gamespot.com/gundam-seed-rengou-vs-z-a-f-t-portable/related/platform/psp/|url-status=dead}}</ref> as well as a mobile phone game, ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Phase-Act Delivery''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.famitsu.com/k_tai/news/2007/08/07/607,1186455383,76412,0,0.html|title=ガンダム公式ゲームで『機動戦士ｶﾞﾝﾀﾞﾑSEED PHASE-ACT前編』が配信 |date=August 7, 2007 |publisher=Famitsu|language=ja|access-date=April 24, 2011}}</ref> [[Artdink]] developed the first [[PlayStation Vita]] Gundam game, {{nihongo|''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Battle Destiny''|機動戦士ガンダムSEED BATTLE DESTINY}}. Released on June 7, 2012, the game covers events from both ''Gundam SEED'' and ''Gundam SEED Destiny''.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://andriasang.com/con099/gundam_seed_screens/|title=Gundam Seed Battle Destiny Screens, Commercial and Packaging|publisher=Andriasang|access-date=October 25, 2012|archive-date=September 30, 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180930142640/http://andriasang.com/con099/gundam_seed_screens/|url-status=dead}}</ref> A remaster for Windows and [[Nintendo Switch]] is set for a release on May 22, 2025.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.gematsu.com/2025/02/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-battle-destiny-remastered-announced-for-switch-pc|title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED: Battle Destiny Remastered announced for Switch, PC|author=Romano, Sal|website=Gematsu|date=February 13, 2025|access-date=February 13, 2025}}</ref>

Characters from ''Gundam SEED'' have been featured in Gundam [[Fictional crossover|crossover]] games. These include ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam: Gundam vs. Gundam Next]]'', the ''SD Gundam G'' series and a few games from the ''[[Gundam Battle Assault]]'' series, ''[[Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 2]]'', and ''[[Dynasty Warriors: Gundam 3]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/1232106_1407.html|title=『機動戦士ガンダム00』、『機動戦士ガンダムSEED』のシナリオを紹介!!『ガンダムアサルトサヴァイブ』|access-date=May 10, 2011|date=February 19, 2010 |publisher=Famitsu|language=ja}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/1220392_1407.html?ref=rss|script-title=ja:さまざまなミッションに挑もう!!『ガンダム無双2』 |date=December 15, 2008 |publisher=Famitsu|language=ja|access-date=April 24, 2011}}</ref> Other crossover games featuring them are games from the ''[[Super Robot Wars]]'' series as well as ''[[Another Century's Episode 3]]'' and ''[[Another Century's Episode: R]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.dengeki.com/elem/000/000/295/295892/index-3.html|title=『ヱヴァ』『ラインバレル』など6作が初参戦！ 『スーパーロボット大戦L』紹介|access-date=May 13, 2011|date=September 3, 2009|publisher=[[ASCII Media Works]]|language=ja}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.famitsu.com/game/coming/2007/07/25/104,1185364935,75852,0,0.html|title=登場機体が続々判明！『Another Century's Episode 3 THE FINAL（アナザーセンチュリーズエピソード3 ザ ファイナル）』|access-date=April 24, 2011|date=July 31, 2007 |publisher=Famitsu|language=ja}}</ref>

===Other merchandise===
Guidebooks have been released for ''Gundam SEED'' such as {{nihongo|''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Ultimate Super Encyclopedia''|決定版　機動戦士ガンダムSEED超百科}} on July&nbsp;10,&nbsp;2003.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3044874|title=決定版 機動戦士ガンダムSEED超百科|access-date=June 4, 2011|publisher=Kodansha|language=ja}}</ref> Two official guidebooks were released in Japan on July&nbsp;18,&nbsp;2003 by Kadokawa Shoten: {{nihongo|''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Photos Freedom Kira''|機動戦士ガンダムSEED写真集 FREEDOMキラ}} and {{nihongo|''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Photos Justice Athrun''|機動戦士ガンダムSEED写真集 JUSTICEアスラン}} focus on Kira Yamato and Athrun Zala respectively.<ref>{{cite book |title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED写真集 FREEDOMキラ|id={{ASIN|4048536648|country=jp}}|language=ja}}</ref><ref>{{cite book |title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED写真集 JUSTICEアスラン|id={{ASIN|4048536656|country=jp}}|language=ja}}</ref> In the same year, a series of guidebooks with the label of "Official File" were released in Japan.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3347478|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED OFFICIAL FILE ドラマ編（１）|access-date=June 4, 2011|publisher=Kodansha|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928093518/http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3347478|archive-date=September 28, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=334679X|title=機動戦士ガンダムSEED OFFICIAL FILE キャラ編（１）|access-date=June 4, 2011|publisher=Kodansha|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928093529/http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=334679X|archive-date=September 28, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3346781|title=機動戦士ガンダム SEED OFFICIAL FILE メカ編 （１）|access-date=June 4, 2011|publisher=Kodansha|language=ja|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120928093538/http://www.bookclub.kodansha.co.jp/bc2_bc/search_view.jsp?b=3346781|archive-date=September 28, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref> A guidebook titled {{nihongo|''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED – All Characters Analysis''|僕たちの好きなガンダムSEED 全キャラクター徹底解析編}} was published on April&nbsp;19,&nbsp;2004, featuring an extensive analysis on the storyline and characters.<ref>{{cite book |title=僕たちの好きなガンダムSEED 全キャラクター徹底解析編|id={{ASIN|4796657762|country=jp}}|language=ja}}</ref> A more detailed guidebook, {{nihongo|''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Perfect Archive Series''|僕たちの好きなガンダムSEED PERFECT ARCHIVE SERIES}}, featuring articles on the characters, technology and universe was published in March&nbsp;2006.<ref>{{cite book |title=僕たちの好きなガンダムSEED PERFECT ARCHIVE SERIES|id={{ASIN|4812426596|country=jp}}|language=ja}}</ref> An artbook titled {{nihongo|''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED RGB Illustrations''|機動戦士ガンダムSEED RGB ILLUSTRATIONS}} was released on July&nbsp;26,&nbsp;2004.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200403000404|title=僕たちの好きなガンダムSEED PERFECT ARCHIVE SERIES|access-date=June 3, 2011|publisher=Kadokawa Shoten|language=ja|archive-date=September 11, 2012|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120911164449/http://www.kadokawa.co.jp/comic/bk_detail.php?pcd=200403000404|url-status=dead}}</ref>

==Reception==
The show has become one of the most popular of the [[Gundam]] series in Japan, enjoying high television ratings and DVD sales.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/4131.html |title=Gundam Seed Anime on the Cartoon Network in April |publisher=ICv2 |access-date=August 11, 2009 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130111015217/http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/4131.html |archive-date=January 11, 2013 |url-status=live }}</ref> In April&nbsp;2004, Bandai Visual announced that one million copies of the ''Gundam SEED'' DVD had been sold in Japan, with the first volume having sold over 100,000 copies.<ref name="announce">{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-04-06/gundam-seed-sells-1-million-dvds-in-japan|title=Gundam Seed Sells 1 Million DVDs in Japan|date=April 6, 2004|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=May 29, 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120722092355/http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-04-06/gundam-seed-sells-1-million-dvds-in-japan|archive-date=July 22, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref> In total, the series set a record of making eight DVDs appearing in the first eight top sales. The same record was repeated in 2016 by ''[[Mr. Osomatsu]]''.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2016-12-28/top-selling-animation-in-japan-on-blu-ray-disc-dvd-by-series-2016/.110415|title= Top-Selling Animation in Japan on Blu-ray Disc/DVD by Series: 2016|date=December 28, 2016|publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |access-date=January 31, 2017|archive-url=https://archive.today/20190416111628/https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2016-12-28/top-selling-animation-in-japan-on-blu-ray-disc-dvd-by-series-2016/.110415|archive-date=2019-04-16}}</ref> CDs sales have also been high<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/release/d/521349/1/|script-title=ja:「機動戦士ガンダムＳＥＥＤ」ＣＯＭＰＬＥＴＥ ＢＥＳＴ|publisher=Oricon|language=ja|access-date=June 2, 2011|archive-url=https://archive.today/20120910181713/http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/release/d/521349/1/|archive-date=September 10, 2012|url-status=live}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.oricon.co.jp/music/release/d/491873/1/|title=INVOKE by T.M.Revolution|publisher=Oricon|language=ja|access-date=June 2, 2011}}</ref> with the single CD from the series' first ending theme becoming one of the top-selling CDs in Japan during 2002.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2002-11-21/gundam-song-a-smash-hit|title=Gundam Song a smash hit|date=November 21, 2002|publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |access-date=June 4, 2011}}</ref> By July&nbsp;2004, 10&nbsp;million plastic ''Gundam SEED'' models had been sold worldwide.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2004-07-13/gundam-seed-destiny-press-release|title=Gundam SEED Destiny Press Release|date=July 13, 2004|publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |access-date=June 4, 2011}}</ref>

Jerry Chu, marketing manager for Bandai Entertainment Inc., stated the response to ''Gundam SEED'' has been highly positive, having broken rating records when it first aired in Japan. Chu added that reaction in the United States was the most enthusiastic Bandai received in the last six years.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/press-release/2004-07-22/bandai-to-introduce-new-property-d.i.c.e-at-comic-con-international-2004 |title=Bandai to Introduce New Property – 'D.I.C.E' at Comic Con International 2004|publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |date=July 22, 2004|access-date=June 4, 2011}}</ref> According to the analyst [[John Oppliger]] of [[AnimeNation]] ''Gundam SEED'' became the first Gundam series which was widely successful not only among "Gundam fans and hardcore [[otaku]]" but also among "mainstream, casual Japanese viewers".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenation.net/blog/2007/10/12/ask-john-which-gundam-series-have-had-the-most-impact-on-anime/ |title=Ask John: Which Gundam Series Have Had the Most Impact on Anime? |date=October 12, 2007 |publisher=[[Anime Nation]] |access-date=May 29, 2011 |archive-date=June 16, 2009 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090616111552/http://www.animenation.net/blog/2007/10/12/ask-john-which-gundam-series-have-had-the-most-impact-on-anime/ |url-status=dead }}</ref> ''Gundam SEED'' was the eighth TV Feature Award winner at the [[Animation Kobe|Animation Kobe Awards]] in 2003. It was the third winner at the Japanese Otaku Awards in 2003.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.anime-kobe.jp/archive/|script-title=ja:これまでの記録（第1回～10回）|publisher=Animation Kobe|language=ja|access-date=August 11, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110416105847/http://anime-kobe.jp/archive/|archive-date=April 16, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref> It won ''[[Animage]]''{{'}}s twenty-fifth [[Anime Grand Prix]] award winner in 2002, with the characters of Kira Yamato and Lacus Clyne topping the male and female anime categories, respectively.<ref name="2002 rank">{{cite web|title=＞＞第25回アニメグランプリ ［2003年6月号］|url=http://animage.jp/old/gp/gp_2003.html|date=June 2003|publisher=[[Animage]]|access-date=August 11, 2009|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100523151929/http://animage.jp/old/gp/gp_2003.html|archive-date=May 23, 2010|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsservice.com/archives/may12.htm |title=Animage 25th Grand Prix Results |publisher=Anime News Service |access-date=January 6, 2008 |archive-date=January 10, 2013 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20130110185049/http://www.animenewsservice.com/archives/may12.htm |url-status=dead }}</ref> It topped the charts in the ''[[Newtype]]'' magazine reader poll during 2004.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.icv2.com/articles/news/5258.html |title=Gundam Seed Anime Returns |publisher=ICv2 |access-date=January 4, 2008|date=August 7, 2004}}</ref> However, the show was not well received by older Japanese fans. In February&nbsp;2004, Sunrise's president, Takayuki Yoshii, stated it was because ''Gundam SEED'' incorporated elements from popular live-action television dramas.<ref>{{Cite news | date=February 2004 | title=Inside Sunrise | periodical=Newtype USA | volume=3 | pages=14–21 }}</ref> On the other hand, Bandai Visual reported in April&nbsp;2004 that ''Gundam SEED'' had a wide audience, including both young and older viewers.<ref name="announce"/>

''Gundam SEED'' has been praised for being a stand-out in a long line of Gundam series<ref name="animefringe">{{cite journal |title=Animefringe Coverage: Kidou Senshi Gundam SEED|url=http://www.animefringe.com/magazine/02.11/feature/2/index.php3|date=November 2002|author=Cheung, Ever|journal=Animefringe |volume=11 |issue=11|access-date=April 15, 2011}}</ref><ref name="IGNreview">{{cite web |title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed: Grim Reality|url=http://dvd.ign.com/articles/534/534252p1.html|date=July 28, 2004|author=Patrizio, Andy|publisher=IGN|access-date=April 14, 2011}}</ref> with [[Anime News Network]]'s Paul Fargo calling it "the best of the alternative timelines, but stands as one of the best Gundam titles".<ref name="annre"/> The story has been praised for its battle sequences as well as its character-driven scenes, neither of which were reviewed to have detracted emphasis from the other.<ref name="seventhmania">{{cite web |title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Vol. #07|url=http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-07_article_77969.html|date=January 19, 2006|author=Wolstenholme, Kim|publisher=Mania Entertainment|access-date=April 29, 2011}}</ref><ref name="IGNreview"/> The series was noted to "downshift" in pace from its early episodes as the main characters development began to progress along political themes, which appealed to some audiences.<ref name="shelfgun"/> Early in the series, speculations were made with regard to the progress the characters' relationships.<ref name="animefringe"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Vol. #02|url=http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-02_article_77643.html|date=September 15, 2005|author=Wolstenholme, Kim|publisher=Mania Entertainment|access-date=April 14, 2011|archive-date=October 18, 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121018053655/http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-02_article_77643.html|url-status=dead}}</ref> The relationship between Kira Yamato and Athrun Zala earned praise as it resulted in entertaining action scenes between their mobile suits,<ref name="ukfifth"/> while in later reviews speculation arose as to whether the two would become allies.

The climax has been praised for bringing unexpected inclusions within the war, as well as revelations regarding the characters' roles.<ref name="uklast">{{cite web |title=Anime Review: Gundam Seed Vol. 9–10|url=http://www.uk-anime.net/anime/Gundam_Seed_Vol._9-10.html|date=November 3, 2006 |author=Liversidge, Ross|publisher=UK Anime Network|access-date=April 14, 2011}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed Vol. #09|url=http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-09_article_76795.html|date=March 23, 2005|author=Beveridge, Chris|publisher=Mania Entertainment|access-date=April 28, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110415182708/http://www.mania.com/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-vol-09_article_76795.html|archive-date=April 15, 2011|df=mdy-all}}</ref> A common comment among writers was that ''Gundam SEED'' blended elements from previous Gundam series and displayed it in a fast-paced way, making it enjoyable to younger fans but still engaging older fans familiar with previous series.<ref name="animefringe"/><ref name="IGNreview"/> [[DVD Verdict]] writer Mitchell Hattaway further noted that while it used elements from other anime series, it still "drew [him] in so quickly [he] soon found [himself] wrapped up in the proceedings".<ref>{{cite web|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed: Grim Reality (Volume 1)|url=http://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/msgsvol1.php|date=September 9, 2004|author=Hattaway, Mitchell|publisher=DVD Verdict|access-date=May 30, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120401082944/http://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/msgsvol1.php|archive-date=April 1, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref> Carl Kimlinger from Anime News Network stated that ''Gundam SEED'' adapted the original ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam]]'' series from 1979 for a modern audience in the same way ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam 00]]'' would  adapt ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam Wing]]''.<ref name="ANN_F07_prev">{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/feature/2007-10-21|title=The Fall 2007 Anime Season Guide|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|date=October 21, 2007|access-date=October 22, 2007}}</ref> Bamboo Dong from the same site stated that while this caused the appearance of "hardcore anti-''Gundam Seed'' zealots" who criticized the series for these traits, it was nevertheless entertaining to watch and give anime fans a step into the "Gundam fandom".<ref name="shelfgun">{{cite web|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/shelf-life/2004-10-24|title=Shelf Life I Heart You Too|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|date=October 24, 2004|access-date=June 4, 2011}}</ref>

The quality of the animation led THEM Anime Reviews' Derrick L. Tucker to call it "by-and-far the best of any Gundam Series to date".<ref name="them">{{cite web |title=Gundam Seed|url=http://www.themanime.org/viewreview.php?id=293|author=L. Tucker, Derrick|publisher=THEM Anime Reviews|access-date=April 15, 2011}}</ref><ref name="dvdtalk">{{cite web |title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed – Evolutionary Conflict |url=http://www.dvdtalk.com/reviews/14945/mobile-suit-gundam-seed-evolutionary-conflict/|date=March 19, 2005 |author=Houston, Don|publisher=DVDTalk|access-date=April 14, 2011}}</ref> Additionally, the soundtrack was popular for bringing popular [[J-pop]] artists such as [[Nami Tamaki]] and [[T.M. Revolution]] to perform the theme songs.<ref name="them"/><ref name="dvdtalk"/> The casting of many talented voice actors, such as [[Rie Tanaka]], [[Seki Tomokazu]] and [[Houko Kuwashima]], provided the emotional depth in scenes that required it.<ref name="annre">{{cite web |title=Mobile Suit Gundam SEED|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/gundam-seed|date=March 3, 2004 |author=Fargo, Paul|publisher=Anime News Network|access-date=May 2, 2011}}</ref> The English dub was reviewed favorably for the most part but comparisons between the English and original Japanese dubbing revealed weaknesses in the portrayal of the characters.<ref name="dvdtalk"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Mobile Suit Gundam Seed: Grim Reality (Volume 1)|url=http://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/msgsvol1.php|date=September 9, 2004|author=Hattaway, Mitchell|publisher=DVDVerdict|access-date=May 30, 2011|url-status=dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120401082944/http://www.dvdverdict.com/reviews/msgsvol1.php|archive-date=April 1, 2012|df=mdy-all}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |title=Gundam SEED Destiny: Final Plus DVD|url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/review/gundam-seed-destiny-final-plus/dvd|date=May 6, 2008 |author=Kimlinger, Carl|publisher=Anime News Network|access-date=April 15, 2011}}</ref>

In the [[NHK|NHK's]] 2018 mega "All Gundam Poll", ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED'' was place as the third best anime in the Gundam franchise, only behind the original 1979 ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam]]'' and ''[[Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam]]''.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.animenewsnetwork.com/interest/2018-05-06/nhk-reveals-full-results-of-ultimate-gundam-poll/.131228|title=NHK Reveals Full Results of Ultimate Gundam Poll|date=11 May 2018|publisher=[[Anime News Network]]|access-date=August 8, 2020}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.nhk.or.jp/anime/gundam/ranking/|title=Result Announcement!|publisher=[[NHK]]|access-date=August 8, 2020}}</ref>

===Controversy===
The sixteenth episode of ''Gundam SEED'' features a scene in which Kira Yamato is seen dressing after getting out of a bed where the teenage girl Flay Allster lies sleeping naked, suggesting a sexual relationship. The Japanese Commission for Better Broadcasting reported that viewers filed complaints regarding the scene as the show was aired at 6&nbsp;pm when children would be watching. Mainichi replied by mentioning it should have given more careful consideration to the episode before airing it.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenewsnetwork.com/news/2003-03-13/mainichi-condemned-for-implied-sexuality-in-gundam-seed |title=Mainichi condemned for implied sexuality in Gundam Seed |publisher=[[Anime News Network]] |access-date=August 11, 2009}}</ref> The scene was extended in one of the compilation films with John Oppliger noting it expanded the off-screen scene with three shots.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.animenation.net/blog/2009/10/28/ask-john-how-common-is-sex-in-anime/ |title=Ask John: How Common is Sex in Anime? |date=October 28, 2009 |publisher=[[Anime Nation]] |access-date=May 29, 2011 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120320052151/http://www.animenation.net/blog/2009/10/28/ask-john-how-common-is-sex-in-anime/ |archive-date=March 20, 2012 |df=mdy-all }}</ref>

==References==
{{reflist|2}}

==External links==
{{wikiquote|Gundam Seed}}
* [http://www.gundam-seed.net Official ''Mobile Suit Gundam SEED'' Website] {{in lang|ja}}
* {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/*/http://www.gundamofficial.com/worlds/ce/index.html |date=* |title=English official Gundam SEED site }}
* {{anime News Network|anime|883}}
* {{anime News Network|manga|2892}}
* {{IMDb title|0374407}}

{{s-start}}
{{succession box | before = ''[[G-Saviour]]'' | title = ''[[Gundam]]'' metaseries (production order) | years = 2002–2003 | after = ''[[Superior Defender Gundam Force]]'' }}
{{succession box | before = none | title = ''Gundam'' Cosmic Era timeline | years = C.E. 71 | after = ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny]]''}}
{{s-end}}
{{Mobile Suit Gundam SEED}}
{{Gundam}}
{{Animation Kobe TV Feature Award}}
{{Anime Grand Prix}}
{{Tokyo Anime Award for Animation of the Year}}
{{Sunrise}}
{{Sunrise OVAs}}
{{Nichigo}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Mobile Suit Gundam Seed}}
[[Category:Mobile Suit Gundam SEED| ]]
[[Category:2002 anime television series debuts]]
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[[Category:Gundam anime and manga|Seed]]
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