Kids Don’t Get It Anymore”: Gundam GQuuuuuuX Director Warns of Mecha Anime’s Uncertain Future
If piloting robots no longer excites new generations, what does the mecha genre need to become?
Kazuya Tsurumaki expresses concern over declining interest in robot anime among younger generations.
August 20, 2025 – In a recent interview with Yahoo Japan, Kazuya Tsurumaki, director of the anime Gundam GQuuuuuuX, shared a sobering prediction: robot anime may not survive the next 10 years if it fails to evolve with modern audiences.
The remarks have sent a ripple through the anime community, particularly among fans of the Gundam franchise, long seen as a pillar of the mecha genre. According to Tsurumaki, the dream of “piloting a giant robot” — once a thrilling symbol of growth and power for children — no longer resonates in the same way with today’s youth.
The Mecha Appeal Is Fading
Tsurumaki explained that during his childhood in the 1970s, anime like Mobile Suit Gundam captured the imagination of a generation raised on motorbikes, cars, and the romanticism of machinery. Controlling a giant robot represented coming of age, control, and responsibility.
But things have changed. “Kids today don’t really understand what it means to pilot a robot,” he said. “Back then, machines were a rite of passage. Now, they’re not even part of the fantasy.”
Why Are Mecha Shows Losing Ground?
The director pointed to two key cultural shifts:
- Rise of Magical Powers & Psychic Heroes: Modern anime and manga protagonists often wield superpowers or psychic abilities, giving them control and influence without the need for external tools like robots.
- Impact of Video Games: With games allowing players to control powerful characters directly via controllers, the fantasy of empowerment has evolved — and arguably outgrown the mecha genre.
Even Gundam Might Not Be Safe
Tsurumaki didn’t hold back:
“Even a series like Gundam might not survive unless we redefine what mecha means.”
This isn’t just industry fear-mongering. It’s a recognition that cultural symbolism must adapt or risk becoming irrelevant. And while diehard fans may always remain, a genre can’t thrive on nostalgia alone.
Gundam GQuuuuuuX: A Rare Exception?
Ironically, Tsurumaki’s own project — Gundam GQuuuuuuX — has been a breakout success. Despite taking bold liberties with the original 1979 storyline, it has managed to captivate both long-time Gundam fans and a new, younger audience.
According to Bandai Namco, the series contributed to one of the most commercially successful years for Gundam in 2025, especially with international sales.
But even this success story may prove the exception, not the rule.
Where Does Mecha Go From Here?
Tsurumaki’s comments leave us with a critical question:
If piloting robots no longer excites new generations, what does the mecha genre need to become?
Some fans argue for reimagining robots as metaphors for identity, trauma, or technology’s role in society. Others believe deeper character storytelling and cross-genre innovation are key to survival.
What’s clear is this: standing still isn’t an option. For mecha anime to thrive, it must evolve.
🧠 Discussion Prompt
Do you still find mecha anime compelling? What would bring the genre back for a new generation?
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