Introduction: The Card-Driven Gundam Legacy
Released in Japanese arcades in July 2011, Mobile Suit Gundam: Try Age stands as one of the most successful entries in Bandai's Data Carddass series. Combining physical collectible trading cards with digital tactical arcade gameplay, Try Age allowed mecha fans to build custom squads of Mobile Suits and pilots spanning decades of the iconic franchise timeline.
Developer and Release Platforms
Developed by Dimps and published by Bandai Namco Games, Mobile Suit Gundam: Try Age was specifically engineered to capitalize on the thriving Japanese card-battler market.
- Arcade (Data Carddass): The primary platform, operating actively from 2011 until service concluded in 2021 after a legendary ten-year run.
- Nintendo 3DS: Ported as Mobile Suit Gundam: Try Age SP in July 2014 for Japanese markets, featuring over 1,400 cards and dedicated single-player campaign modes simulating the arcade hardware using dual-screen controls.
Story and Crossover Narrative
Rather than telling a single original narrative, Try Age functions as an expansive multi-universe crossover event. Players take on the role of a fleet commander deploying custom formations into historical Gundam encounters and original crossover scenarios.
Build dream squads featuring mobile suits and pilots from Universal Century, After Colony, Cosmic Era, Anno Domini, and modern series such as Gundam AGE and Gundam Build Fighters.
The story mode presents tactical missions recreating iconic anime battles, complemented by original side stories where pilots from different timelines interact, cooperate, and clash on the battlefield.
Graphics and Visual Presentation
For a 2011 arcade title built around card-scanner technology, Mobile Suit Gundam: Try Age delivers expressive visual presentation. The game features stylized 3D mecha models executing dramatic special attacks (EX Attacks and Combination Attacks) complete with dynamic camera angles and flashy particle effects inspired by the anime series.
While the Nintendo 3DS adaptation downscaled visual resolution to accommodate handheld hardware, it preserved fluid action animations and cutscene transitions seamlessly.
Platform and Availability Overview
| Platform | Release Window | Region | Current Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Arcade (Data Carddass) | July 2011 | Japan | Discontinued (Legacy Arcade Cabinet) |
| Nintendo 3DS (Try Age SP) | July 17, 2014 | Japan | Physical Import / Japanese eShop |
Final Verdict and Recommendation
Mobile Suit Gundam: Try Age successfully bridged the gap between physical card collecting and digital mecha strategy gaming. Its intuitive combat system, deep custom team building, and stylish combat graphics make it a standout spin-off in Gundam gaming history.
Final Recommendation: For Gundam enthusiasts and collectors with access to a Japanese Nintendo 3DS system, picking up a copy of Mobile Suit Gundam: Try Age SP is highly recommended as an engaging, nostalgic tactical experience.
