This October, New York transforms into a mobile suit battlefield—figuratively, of course—as Bandai Namco Filmworks brings the Gundam franchise’s biggest U.S. expansion yet to the five boroughs and beyond. From New York Comic Con (NYCC) at the Javits Center to cinematic screenings at Japan Society and an immersive pop-up at American Dream, the Gundam takeover is a love letter to fans who have carried this franchise across generations.
At the heart of the celebration is the NYCC Gundam Showcase Panel on October 9. In Room 405, from 5–6 p.m., creators and voice actors will unpack both the past and the future of Gundam. Director Tatsuyuki Nagai and producer Naohiro Ogata will reflect on the 10th anniversary of Iron-Blooded Orphans, while English voices Kyle McCarley (Mikazuki Augus) and Caleb Yen (Hathaway Noa) preview the much-anticipated Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway The Sorcery of Nymph Circe. Attendees won’t walk away empty-handed—exclusive trading cards, posters, and GUNPLA trial kits will be handed out, making the panel one of NYCC’s must-attend events.
Gundam’s reach extends well beyond the Javits. At Japan Society (Oct. 11–12), the Gundam Film Festival will screen landmark titles including Endless Waltz Special Edition (4K remaster) and Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway, capped off by cast talkbacks with voices like Mark Hildreth and Megan Shipman. Tickets range from $25–$60 and are available now on Japan Society’s website.
Meanwhile, across the river, The Gundam Base POP-UP World Tour lands at American Dream in East Rutherford, NJ (Oct. 4–19). Expect premium merchandise, GUNPLA workshops, and even Gundam card game tutorials—an interactive playground for longtime builders and first-time fans alike.
And don’t sleep on the TAMASHII NATIONS Store New York (Times Square). During NYCC, the flagship U.S. location will spotlight exclusive Gundam action figures and collectibles. Fans can expect special displays, limited-edition items, and giveaways only available in-store.
Adding to the hype, Gundam is literally hitting the streets. From late September through mid-October, a Gundam-wrapped bus will roll through NYC—and lucky fans may even snag a free ride.
This isn’t just another con activation—it’s Gundam staking its claim in the cultural capital of the world. From anime veterans who first watched Wing in the ‘90s to new fans discovering Iron-Blooded Orphans on streaming, New York’s Gundam celebration is proof of an enduring legacy and a bold future.
For updates and full event info, visit gundam.info
Retired U.S. Army Combat Veteran | NAHJ Member | Writer | Cultural Advocate
I’m Daniel Crespo-Montero Sr., although many know me as El Indio Gordo. I’m the Managing Editor of OMG Magazine, a retired U.S. Army combat veteran, a member of the National Association of Hispanic Journalists (NAHJ), and a writer with a passion for culture, community, and storytelling.
My journey hasn’t exactly followed a traditional path, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.
I spent more than three decades in the U.S. Army, working in military law enforcement, paralegal services, and human resources. I also hold a Bachelor’s degree in Sociology and Spanish and an Associate degree in Small Business Entrepreneurship. Those experiences have shaped how I understand people, leadership, and the world around me.
As a proud Boricua with Indigenous Taíno roots, cultural preservation is especially important to me. Within the Higuayagua Taíno community, I’ve served in several leadership roles and currently serve as Pennsylvania’s Regional Kasike and Bahari for Atunwa.
My community involvement has also included serving as a New York City Ambassador for the National Puerto Rican Chamber of Commerce. I’m also a former Boy Scout and proud Scout dad.
As Managing Editor, I enjoy exploring entertainment, lifestyle, food and beverages, travel, business, and culture. I believe journalism should inform, entertain, challenge perspectives, and give a voice to stories that might otherwise go unnoticed.
Beyond the magazine, I’m a father, grandfather, cultural advocate, and independent writer who enjoys sharing observations, experiences, and occasionally a little humor.
I certainly don’t know everything, but I’m always willing to learn something new. And if something catches my attention, chances are I’ll have a few words to share about it.
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