At Expo 2025 Osaka, Kansai—where companies from across industries gather under the theme “Designing Future Society for Our Lives”—one pavilion stands out with its uniquely powerful IP. The GUNDAM NEXT FUTURE PAVILION, the only officially licensed IP-based pavilion at the event, brings the world of Gundam into the heart of the expo. Bandai Namco Holdings Executive Vice President Nobuhiko Momoi shares the concept behind this groundbreaking exhibit and the enduring global appeal of Gundam.

Imagining a Peaceful Future Beyond Combat

――What led to the decision to bring the GUNDAM NEXT FUTURE PAVILION to the Osaka Expo?

Momoi
When we thought about the Expo's theme, “Designing Future Society for Our Lives,” we wanted a concept that would spark the imagination. Our pavilion envisions the year 2150, and we felt that Gundam, as a cultural icon of future space life, was the ideal motif to inspire visitors to imagine what life could be like in space.

Designing a Journey Through a Collaborative Tomorrow

――What are the key features of the GUNDAM NEXT FUTURE PAVILION?

Momoi
It’s built like a corridor-based experience, guiding visitors through a 50-minute story. The first half depicts a future where different mobile suits cooperate with one another. We hope this sparks interest in science and space, particularly among younger visitors. We’ve also been mindful about introducing Gundam to first-time audiences in a meaningful way.

A New Vision: “Gundam” as a Tool for Peace

――The original video GUNDAM: Next Universal Century directed by Takayuki Tsukamoto has drawn much attention. What message does it convey?

Momoi
I saw comments online from people who watched the teaser, saying things like, “It’s amazing that the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon are working together to clear space debris instead of fighting.” That’s exactly the message we’re conveying—that mobile suits can be used not for warfare but for peace. We want to encourage viewers to envision a future without weapons.

Bridging Entertainment and Message

――That’s a bold shift from traditional Gundam storytelling.

Momoi
Yes. By showing mobile suits cooperating rather than fighting, we create a stark contrast that emphasizes peace. We were also deliberate about minimizing battle elements like beam sabers. But as much as we emphasized peace, we still wanted to create an engaging experience that would satisfy long-time Gundam fans.

――How did you balance that?

Momoi
That balance is a highlight of GUNDAM: Next Universal Century. If the entire hour were peaceful, it wouldn’t feel like Gundam. But intense battles would contradict the Expo’s theme. We found a middle ground—a fine line that we hope resonates with everyone. It’s a bold, ambitious work that we’re proud of.

Source : ORICON NEWS