Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Destiny
Synopsis
In the year Cosmic Era 0071, a wartime brawl between two mobile suits results in the destruction of a neutral country. Shinn Asuka finds his entire family killed as casualties of the violence, and swears his life toward a vengeful pursuit of the Earth's Natural forces, under the impression they were the ones responsible for his family's death. Shinn works his way up through the ZAFT military forces, eventually gaining access to the cockpit of the prototype Impulse mobile suit. Athrun Zala, a veteran of the recent war employed in the service of diplomat Cagalli Yula Athha, finds himself drawn into a new conflict between the Naturals and the Coordinators: human beings artificially enhanced before birth and hated by the Naturals for their biological advantages. As the new war rears its head and violence becomes inevitable, Athrun finds himself as a mentor to the bitter Shinn. Athrun must steer the young pilot towards a mindset of mercy before his rage and desire for vengeance consumes him. [Written by MAL Rewrite]
Audience Consensus
Gundam SEED Destiny is a highly divisive series, with many considering it a disappointing sequel due to its unoriginal story, weak characters, and poor pacing. While some appreciate the soundtrack and mecha designs, the overwhelming consensus is negative, especially among fans of the original Gundam SEED. The series is often criticized for failing to live up to its potential and for tarnishing the legacy of its predecessor.
Strengths
- Soundtrack is highly praised, with many considering it a highlight of the series.
- Some viewers appreciate the series as a standalone work, separate from its predecessor.
- Mecha designs are considered unique and memorable by some.
Weaknesses
- Story is considered unoriginal, often described as a rehash of previous Gundam series, especially SEED and Zeta Gundam.
- Character development is criticized, with new characters seen as weak and unlikeable, and returning characters' personalities warped.
- Pacing issues, including excessive flashbacks and recap episodes, are frequently mentioned.
- Many find the plot incoherent and filled with contrivances and plot holes.
- Animation reuses footage extensively.