Mobile Suit Gundam 00: Season 1 has many well-written relationships, like the brotherly bond of Setsuna and Lockon. But which on-screen duo was the best in season 1 of the anime? Was it really the relationship I mentioned above, or maybe was it Graham and Billy’s friendship? Well, scroll down below to find the list of the 5 greatest relationships in Gundam 00: Season 1! Make sure to enjoy yourself!
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5. Sumeragi Lee Noriega & Allelujah Haptism
Am I the only one who loves this relationship? Whether it’s their oddly fitting personalities or their mother-son style behavior towards one another, it’s different from every relationship in Gundam 00: Season 1. Therefore, I found it to be somewhat special, as it was private.
Do you know what I think? I believe that Allelujah is drawn to Sumeragi Lee Noriega because he feels that she genuinelly cares about him. It’s a nurturing relationship, where Sumeragi shows that she’s interested in Allelujah, and thus she makes him feel comfortable. In turn, Allelujah does not turn to his fellow Gundam Meisters for advice and comfort, but instead he spends time with Sumeragi Lee Noriega. If that’s not special, I don’t know what is.
4. Lockon Stratos & Tieria Erde
Lockon Stratos and Tieria Erde is a pretty good on-screen duo, with several great interactions. Whether they are arguing over Setsuna or discussing their missions, these two always seem to have an understanding with each other. It’s pretty special, as it’s something that’s never truly explored, but we see it clear as day. So even when Tiera is getting out of hand, Lockon Stratos always knows how to handle that. It doesn’t get him angered or anything. It’s like Lockon is a big brother to everybody, including Tieria Erde.
Obviously, I have to mention the growth-spurt in their relationship, during the second half of season 1, when their friendship is tested. It’s not just about Lockon sacrificing himself to save Tieria, but how the two handle the entire situation. Understandably, Tieria blames himself for the incident, but Lockon holds literally no hard feelings, and doesn’t even mention it. But this just shows exactly how much Lockon understand Tieria, as he accepts him for exactly who he is, not what he wants him to be. But Tieria is a perfectionist, and feels irresponsible in his way of behaving in said situation. Thus, their dynamic is truly brotherly, and that’s special.
Perhaps you’re wondering why I didn’t rank this on-screen duo higher? I mean, they’re pretty great together, aren’t they? But their relationship felt forced, as it came out of nowhere, and it didn’t seem as deep as other duos on this list. I’m simply not convinced that they’re friends. It wasn’t a well-written storyline angle, which made their “friendship” feel shallow, and created with the sole purpose of giving Tieria Erde something to do. In turn, I’m forced to rank it at #4.
3. Graham Aker & Billy Katagiri
This is a true friendship, isn’t it? Just from one single glance, you can clearly see that Graham Aker and Billy Katagiri fully trust and accept one another. It’s actually well showcased as well, as whenever they interact, there’s a sense of calm and an understanding between them. As if words are not necessary, and that we as the viewers have to fill in the blanks. This means that they have a deep bond, that isn’t shaken or stirred by misunderstanding, as they are actually true friends.
Is this relationship a brotherly one? No. Not at all. Not even in the slightest way. Graham and Billy are best friends, as they treat each other as equals and respect each other’s perspective and opinions, without criticism. While they don’t always agree, they don’t bicker or argue, as they are best friends. Thus, they understand one another on a deeper level than Lockon and Setsuna do. It’s honestly as simple as that.
Last but not least, Graham and Billy’s relationship comes across very natural, and it’s all about how they behave with one another. It’s not forced, and it doesn’t feel like one person is trying and the other isn’t, making it look like they are very comfortable with each other.
2. Setsuna F. Seiei & Lockon Stratos
Setsuna and Lockon are like brothers, aren’t they? Lockon is the big brother who’s constantly looking after and protecting his little brother Setsuna, who’s an angsty rebel who does what he wants with no regard for his fellow Gundam Meisters. But do you want to know the most ironic thing? It’s pretty much a one-sided relationship, as Lockon protects and takes care of Setsuna. While our beloved “Gundam” doesn’t show any affection towards Lockon, because he barely feels anything, which makes sense considering his childhood.
Graham Aker and Billy Katagiri are best friends, while Setsuna and Lockon are like brothers. I mean, the two Gundam Meisters don’t always get along and even end up fighting each other. Not only that, but Lockon always helps and covers for Setsuna when he’s doing foolish things, without Setsuna doing the same for Lockon. But this “inequality” in a relationship shows you that it’s a brotherly bond that they share, as the older and more mature person (Lockon) looks after the young and foolish one (Setsuna). But what Graham and Billy have is true and honest friendship. It’s a different type of bond.
Overall I definitely like their relationship, but it’s a difficult one to place, isn’t it? In Season 2 we see how much Lockon (Neil) meant to Setsuna, but because we don’t see that in Season 1, I’m forced to rank another relationship above this one. I just hope you can understand why!
1. Saji Crossroad & Louise Halevy
Let’s keep it 100, shall we? There’s no relationship or on-screen duo better than Saji Crossroad and Louise Halevy. Not only is it a romantic relationship, with beautiful comedic elements and good progression, but it’s a also a story of how lives change and the struggles of maintaining a relationship. In turn, it’s a complete adventure, involving these two characters, that are meant for each other. And I mean that in every way imaginable.
When I first watched Gundam 00 many years ago, I was shocked by how well-written Saji and Louise’s storyline is, as it’s near perfect. I mean, when you consider that it’s a mecha anime and that they are not main characters, it’s impressive how well their relationship is depicted. But above and beyond that, the creators were able to capture the essence of all the awkward and uncomfortable moments that a new couple faces. From knowing what’s right and wrong to meeting a girlfriend’s parents, it’s ALL included in Gundam 00. And that’s impressive in my opinion.
From their humorous scenes to their heartbreaking ending, Saji and louise have the very best relationship in Gundam 00. While a case could be made for others, it’s still the crown jewel in my book. Thus, I’m giving the #1 spot to Saji and Louise! These two top my list of the top 5 greatest relationships in Gundam 00: Season 1.
