The Official Gundam Iron-Blooded Orphans Anime Thread Mk III

[X_zoro]

No matter what happens at the end of this first cour, I'm ready even if its something I fear the most, I won't back down now.

[SNT1]

I've seen some theories thrown around the internets that the Gundam (Frame) pilots of old were closer to Ein than Mikazuki/Akihiro etc, that they were those who literally became one with their Gundams, uninhibited by any limiters. Didn't Barbatoss have a missing cockpit when it was found, and was just later retrofitted by CGS with one from a mobile worker? Plus, Gjallahorn has had some pretty telling experiences with an uninhibited AV like Ein's. What do you guys think? Will red-eyed Barbatos turn Mika into a mashed potato?

[yazi88]

We don't know what the situation was when CGS got their hands on the Barbatos, most likely they found it while excavating the area, and it might've been damaged in the cockpit area or thrown out so it could be just used as a powerplant. Although I wonder if the Flauros had the remains of the previous pilot or if it was just abandoned, maybe its AV system was still in there, or that Teiwaz used a spare AV system from one of the wrecked Landman Rodi's from Earth or a Dawn Horizon slave AV system from a Garm Rodi.

The Gundams blackbox like AV limiter release seems like a reaction against Mobile Armors and possibly similar threats. Ein kind of ended up being a genocidal psychotic machine that lost his humanity, kind of similar to the Mobile Armors, cause remember, the Mobile Armors were made just for destruction and killing of humans.

Or it could be that the Barbatos had its other limiters released in season 1 as was said by Nadi when Dante tried to pilot it in the Dort Colony Arc. Mika had a deeper connection to the Barbatos and might have subconsciously unlocked the limiter for the AV system during the final duel with Ein at Edmonton. I guess its a bit similar to how Mika knew how to read or rather understand the controls in the cockpit in his 1st sortie in the Barbatos in season 1.

[Amion]

I'm preferring the theory that the original Gjallarhorn fighters had AVs, at least. There is no other explanation that makes logical sense to me for why there would be a "limiter program" in the Barbatos' OS system otherwise.

If not, that leaves us with the odd interpretation that the limiter system is part of the cockpit AV system itself, and thus part of those mobile workers, which is of course ridiculous.

With Red-eyes Mode activated, and the system going up in Gusion as well... and with the fear of this happening to Flauros too, we have no reason not to trust Chocky's guess that this is a deep-seeded part of the Barbatos itself, which means the Gundams were indeed intended to have a pilot with the surgery, or more modifications.

Also, a thought: what if this limiter system was a political compromise, or even a deliberate precaution to prevent the Gundams from being turned against Humanity? So we're looking at a reverse-situation from how the system is supposed to work: the Gundams were always supposed to be in Redeye Mode, because Mobile Armor were their expected opponents we think, and would shift to green around manned machines. It makes sense the people of that era would want a failsafe to ensure the Gundams' superior abilities were checked if facing humans. After all, lack of failsafes is what led to the AI rebellion, or clearly not enough of them.

I think it is telling that we've so far avoided seeing an original cockpit for the Gundams. Surely that means something. Probably because of the AV system.

Who knows? Perhaps Bael will have the answers we seek...

One thing is for sure, this Mega Evolved Skarmory isn't going to appreciate Barbatos now.

[Brave Fencer Kirby]

If not, that leaves us with the odd interpretation that the limiter system is part of the cockpit AV system itself, and thus part of those mobile workers, which is of course ridiculous.

Why is that ridiculous? That's exactly how I read the explanation. The Gundams spotted the mobile armor and kicked into overdrive, increasing the bandwidth of the A-V system to dangerous levels, so the A-V system automatically went into safe mode and effectively shut the control system down in order to protect the pilot.

It's worth noting that neither the Barbatos nor the Gusion is using their original Calamity War era A-V system. Both were replaced, presumably using a modern version of the system like the one used for mobile workers. I doubt that original Calamity War era Gundams locked up when they tried to fight the mobile armors they were created to destroy -- that's a modern problem. It's possible that Calamity War era Gundam pilots had access to better medical technology and thus were able to install more A-V implants in a single person (resulting in a higher maximum bandwidth) without running the risk of a catastrophic rejection that kills or cripples the pilot. It's also possible that they used the A-V system in a different way entirely, one that wasn't subject to the same limitations as the modern version.

As far as SNT1's question, I doubt that the original Gundam pilots were Ein-style comatose vegetables, but it seems clear to me that there is something more to the A-V system than the way Tekkadan currently uses it. The fact that Mika lost the use of one eye and one arm while fighting Ein (but he can still use them fine when he's plugged into the Barbatos) suggests that there's another "level" of A-V synchronization that can be achieved.

My best guess is that as of now, Tekkadan A-V functions something like considering the thing they're plugged into as a new limb of the pilot. The mobile suit (or mobile worker, or warship, or whatever) is considered an extension of their bodies. What Mika did against Ein (and what the original Gundam pilots did) was synchronize "deeper" than that, and effectively allow the mobile suit to replace their bodies -- eg, the parts of their brain normally used to control their arm instead controls the Gundam's arm. Mika did a partial sync with the Barbatos while fighting Ein, but never "de-synced", which is why he lost use of the arm and eye when not plugged in. I'm willing to bet that once he fully syncs, he'll be able to fully de-sync and regain full control of his body again.

It's also possible that only Mika, with three A-V implants, will be able to pull that off.

[BrentD15]

Idiok strikes again! It appears lethal stupidy is the great ally of Mobile Armor. To think he'd be able to meddle not once, not twice, but three times! Should we call him Brown Comet now? (His suit is brown...) "Moving back at you, three times dummer."

"I came here because the plot demands that you must die."

[Zeonista]

Not much to say this week, since it was straightforward and dropped many more tech & history bombs on us. Notice how tech and history tend to entwine in this story? I liked the revelation that the Gundams had an anti-MA V-max capability. It also explains the need for the A-V system to be able to control such a capability!

Pluma blocking: are a real pain in the ass. Bad enough that the uber-boss Hashmal has to be confronted, it has its own mecha escort to run interference! Sort of like Psycho Gundam or Big Zam getting deployed with a MS battalion in close support.

Vidar is...: We all know who he is now, right?

Idiok the Brown Comet must die: He must perish in a horrible demeaning way, swatted like the annoying little bug he is. I haven't anticipated character death with so much bloodthirsty glee since Ali.

Shippers unite!: The hero's harem is quietly and adorably affirmed in between all the action. Mika-kun will get much TLC when they cart him back after the battle with Hashmal.

Man service: Flauros cockpit action. Let the slashfics launch like an Itano circus! Don't care since I can continue to be Zaku-green over Naze "Mack Daddy" Turbine's harem.

AC/DC song: Shino fires the railguns of Flauros. Big gun fun.

[Amion]

If not, that leaves us with the odd interpretation that the limiter system is part of the cockpit AV system itself, and thus part of those mobile workers, which is of course ridiculous.

Why is that ridiculous? That's exactly how I read the explanation. The Gundams spotted the mobile armor and kicked into overdrive, increasing the bandwidth of the A-V system to dangerous levels, so the A-V system automatically went into safe mode and effectively shut the control system down in order to protect the pilot.

It's worth noting that neither the Barbatos nor the Gusion is using their original Calamity War era A-V system. Both were replaced, presumably using a modern version of the system like the one used for mobile workers. I doubt that original Calamity War era Gundams locked up when they tried to fight the mobile armors they were created to destroy -- that's a modern problem. It's possible that Calamity War era Gundam pilots had access to better medical technology and thus were able to install more A-V implants in a single person (resulting in a higher maximum bandwidth) without running the risk of a catastrophic rejection that kills or cripples the pilot. It's also possible that they used the A-V system in a different way entirely, one that wasn't subject to the same limitations as the modern version.

As far as SNT1's question, I doubt that the original Gundam pilots were Ein-style comatose vegetables, but it seems clear to me that there is something more to the A-V system than the way Tekkadan currently uses it. The fact that Mika lost the use of one eye and one arm while fighting Ein (but he can still use them fine when he's plugged into the Barbatos) suggests that there's another "level" of A-V synchronization that can be achieved.

My best guess is that as of now, Tekkadan A-V functions something like considering the thing they're plugged into as a new limb of the pilot. The mobile suit (or mobile worker, or warship, or whatever) is considered an extension of their bodies. What Mika did against Ein (and what the original Gundam pilots did) was synchronize "deeper" than that, and effectively allow the mobile suit to replace their bodies -- eg, the parts of their brain normally used to control their arm instead controls the Gundam's arm. Mika did a partial sync with the Barbatos while fighting Ein, but never "de-synced", which is why he lost use of the arm and eye when not plugged in. I'm willing to bet that once he fully syncs, he'll be able to fully de-sync and regain full control of his body again.

It's also possible that only Mika, with three A-V implants, will be able to pull that off.

You're misinterpreting what I meant, Kirby. I was referring to the overdrive system itself, not the lock up for the AVs. It was never in question that the safety was from the modern cockpits or AV tech.

[Kuruni]

Hmm? So Barbatos' red eyes keep blazing like scarf? For once, IBO goes overstylish (but consider how well people react to Hashmal, it has to be this way). And that's indeed one intense battle. A little hard to make out what's going on in that chaotic, but awesome nonetheless. Berserk fan would get reminiscence of the time Guts get the Dragonslayer.

Like Naze, McMurdo draw a clear line for Orga. But then we learned that he also plan to promote Naze if Tekkadan success. I guess that for all build up Jasley will betray McMurdo, saving Orga and Naze from making hard choice.

McGillis chew on Iok who play fool in the council. And it appear that Rustal just realize allying with him cause more harm than good.

Look like seeing angel slaying drive Julietta more.

Spoiler

Now Hush get the whole event with his hero replayed again...thankfully Mika is much stronger person. And it seem that Naze know how Orga conflict with himself.

Poor Atra...guess all hard life teach her to keep feeling hidden, but Kudelia accidently uncover it. Although the mood does 180 degree turn with her request.

Spoiler

Damn...so goes with Mika's right side is a bit of his hope to live as normal person, and he seem happy...it's incredible sad, even if he doen't aware of it.

[mobiusdiablo]

Out of this whole episode, the very nice if frantic battle, the resolution of the Mobile Armor arc, and the costs Mikazuki had to pay to get it done, all I can think of is one scene.

DO IT YOURSELF, ATRA, DON'T ASK HER!!!

[domino]

It's indeed sad to see what is happening to Mika. I wonder if they'll find a way to reverse the effects? Surely they can't risk the same thing happening to Akihiro.

It's possible that Mika will get some form of upgrade when Barbatos gets fixed (and another possible refit? - with a bigger sword?)

I'm especially interested in McGillis' change in tone. He seems ready to stop working in the shadows and to just unleash his full arsenal - Bael Gundam?

EDIT: The decision to claim Gaelio is dead and even remove him from the family is interesting. However, if Vidar was indeed created from Kimaris then the family must know something was up when it was taken from them again. Rustal is definitely up to something bigger than just helping Gaelio get his revenge on McGillis....

[yazi88]

Well... the OP showed Mika clawing to the ground to get to the Barbatos... that is pretty interesting foreshadowing at what is going to happen... which did in this ep.

[SNT1]

+Love the visceral fight scene! Shows how a Barbatos with a proper Gundam Frame pilot is so much above all the others. Even smugfaces like McGillis and Julietta can only look in amazement. One of the most brutal Gundam fights I've ever seen.

+Again, more real talk with Naze and Old Man on Orga, and the intent to keep Tekkadan on an even tighter leash. I agree with them.

+McGillis finally shows his evil monologue while having Bael be introduced in the background. Think he can even keep up with Mika, or even Vidar, at this point? I'm sure the Grimgerde is not on that level anymore, and he might be crazy enough to AV himself up for Bael. Also, Isurugi doesn't seem to know the full story on Gaelio.

+Looks like Mika wasn't truly boned. But shit man can anyone in Tekkadan give him a wheelchair at least? That was pathetic.

+More respect to Rustal being real and playing the long game properly. I guess Jasley now has the twirly mustache aura.

-Atra, shut up

-Iok, shut up

+Riden-Go > Ryusei-Go

This was a great episode. Maybe Mika continues to Barbatos until the end (can we at least get Hush some mecha action?) and get some upgrades again.

[Dark Duel]

Barbatos in this episode was downright terrifying in its brutality against the Hashmal. Though the severe drawbacks for Mika don't surprise me, I have to wonder how much longer he's going to keep going before the thing finally kills him.

On the Gjallarhorn side, the verbal dressing-down inflicted on Idiok - especially the public humiliation in front of the other leaders of the Seven Stars - was very probably my favorite part of this episode.
On another note, it's starting to look more and more like Chocolate Man will end up being the final Big Bad, which disappoints me a little because I preferred him as a morally ambiguous deuteragonist. But we'll see...

[Kuruni]

-Atra, shut up

I actually have conflict thought on that scene.

We're aware that Atra is mentally strong girl and that pitiful cry already tell us how she can barely hide it all along. If that scene end with just that, I think it will be one of the most sad scene in the series that doesn't involve death.

Part of me acknowledge that her request lift up the atmosphere from being too depress, but another part think that they should make it soul crushing depress for once.

[domino]

It seems like Iok will cause even more trouble with his meddling and foolish pride

I accept that McGillis may not get (or have) AV surgery but he's no doubt been hesitant about doing something that he now intends to fully pursue. Remember that this is the guy who had no problem sacrificing two of his closest childhood "friends" and breaking laws/tradition to approve the creation of Mecha-Eins eventhough it was unleashed against Tekkadan who he had allied with.

McGillis has no problem with playing all of the sides against each other. His only weakness thus far has been that he did not want to be associated or linked with the outcomes. That may be why he has kept Bael Gundam under wraps for so long

[Amion]

Ah, finally watched the episode...

Firstly, I just didn't enjoy the battle between Barbatos and Hashmal as much as others here, I am sad to say. The Mega-Skarmory just sat there and bleeped at the Gundam, and didn't make too many pronounced movements as it did in episodes past. Yes, yes, the tail attacks. But we've seen Hashmal dodge and dance about nimbly, so I was hoping it wouldn't just render itself stationary and rely on its beam gun and tail. Or did Mika damage its legs? I think there might actually have been a scene for that, now that I think back on it...

It was, regardless, a genuine Gundam smack-down. Barbatos Gundam is now more than worthy of its name in my eyes, even if its foe got nerfed in the end to a small extent.

Now, Iok seems to be alive still, and is as stupid as ever. I did like that he cares about his subordinates, but he is too stupid to keep alive. The Brown Comet needs to die. In despair. With the voice of Rustal denouncing him from the Seven Stars. Or maybe Julietta refusing to rescue him. At any rate, it appears his end will come slowly, and that means the writers will have time to think about a fitting way to dispose of the trash.

The emotions in this episode felt the most potent and genuine this entire series, save for maybe a couple points in the past. And they all hit the nail on the head at just the right moments, unlike in previous episodes where they felt forced. I legitimately enjoyed each moment.

Now, Orga is determined to rise to the top, and take his family with him, but of course Chocky has begun to enter CCA Mode. It's time to do revolution, as Atra would put it, and he now appears ready to use Bael to do it. the only question now is, will Tekkadan overcome his schemes in the end? Or is Rustal or Teiwaz going to have the last laugh?

May Hashmal's brethren rise from their graves and steal the laughter from their lips.

[Kuruni]

Or some other angels...

[Dark Duel]

The Mega-Skarmory just sat there and bleeped at the Gundam, and didn't make too many pronounced movements as it did in episodes past. Yes, yes, the tail attacks. But we've seen Hashmal dodge and dance about nimbly, so I was hoping it wouldn't just render itself stationary and rely on its beam gun and tail. Or did Mika damage its legs? I think there might actually have been a scene for that, now that I think back on it...

I have to confess, I had absolutely no clue what the heck a Skarmory was, so I had to look that up. Gotta say, it's a pretty apt comparison
But I do agree to an extent that the mobile armor did seem to be a bit more...stationary than I expected, though I personally put that down to Barbatos suddenly moving so much more rapidly than it was previously, which made it much more difficult to track. The fight was so fast-paced I couldn't be sure, but I do believe you're correct and at one point Babs did score a direct hit on Hashmal's leg(s), which probably hindered its mobility as well.
I'll go back and attempt to rewatch the fight tonight.

[Amion]

Yeah, someone on another board hearkened Hashmal to an evolution of the pokemon Skarmory, and I just had to use it once. That was just so right a comparison.

That said, I do believe we get this split-second point where it seems like Mika scores a blow on the legs. If so, it was a brilliant stroke of basic strategy.

Oh, and I must admit I don't like what I've seen of the Bael Gundam's back. The wings look funny. But we shall see...