While it may not be part of the Big 3 orDragon Ball,Gundamis undoubtedly one of the greats acknowledged by many anime fans, and just because it predates some of the best anime titles by a decade doesn’t mean it’s falling short in earnings for 2025.Gundamstill has what it takes to dominate over popular IPs.
In a report made by Bandai Namco, it was revealed thatMobile Suit Gundamsoared past all other titles in generating the most sales from the use of its IP. After debuting itslatest anime,Mobile Suit Gundam GQuuuuuuX, and lining up the production for a live-action installment, Bandai has showcased that this classic IP isn’t going anywhere.
Mobile Suit Gundam Overtakes Dragon Ball and One Piece in IP Sales
Gundam Isn’t Falling Short in Light of Dragon Ball and One Piece Resurgence
InBandai’s report,Mobile Suit Gundamis projected to have sold approximately 65.4 Billion Yen in IP sales alone for the upcoming year of 2026. Even in the current year, the 46-year-old franchise was only second toDragon Ballby earning a total of 153.5 Billion Yen to the anime’s 190.6 Billion Yen.
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Naruto
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It’s a remarkable feat forGundamto place so far ahead in light of the other franchises still promoting their ongoing projects, given thatOne Piecehas its ongoing anime, a remake, and alive-action set to debut next year.Dragon Balldid stellar work this year with the resurgence of fans returning en masse forDaima.
Gundammanages to keep relevant by usurping the great titles of this decade, both in generated sales of its IP and for its toys and collectible items. Though one large hurdle still proved too massive to overcome.
Even as One Piece Reigns Supreme, Gundam is Hot on Its Tails in Toys and Hobby Sales
However, Gundam is Projected to Overtake One Piece in Sales in 2026
In Bandai’s recording for the IP sales generated for its Toys and Hobby Business in Japan,Mobile Suit Gundamalmost overtook the spot, butOne Pieceremained ahead. As two of the most marketable franchises, it’s no surprise that these two dominate over the other anime IPs listed in the report.
WhereasMobile Suit Gundammanaged to rake in about 75.7 Billion Yen in IP sales for 2025,One Piecestill led the charge at a whopping 94.2 Billion Yen. While this year the pirate anime may have mecha beat, it’s 2026 where the tides truly begin to turn inGundam’sfavor.
In 2026,Mobile Suit GundambeatOne PieceandDragon Ballin two major sales areas, recorded to have sold about 25.4 Billion Yen in IP sales for the Toys and Hobby section in Japan alone. Despite having fallen under the wire in previous years,Gundamsurges ahead as its franchise is renewed after its second wind.
Gundam
The Gundam franchise is a cornerstone of mecha anime, featuring giant robots known as “mobile suits” in various wartime settings. Originating with Mobile Suit Gundam in 1979, it explores complex themes of war, politics, and humanity through the struggles of pilots who navigate these massive machines. The franchise spans multiple timelines and universes, creating a rich tapestry of interconnected stories and standalone narratives.
