Gundam Archives

Shadows of the Past: Unveiling the Secrets of Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO

Episode 2: Howls Stained in Dusk

In the midst of the One Year War, the Earth Drop Operations have begun, and the 603rd team is tasked with testing the revolutionary YMT-05 Hildolfr, a transformable mobile tank. This cutting-edge technology has the potential to change the course of the war, but its success hinges on the skills of its pilot, Maj. Demeziere Sonnen.

A Troubled Past

Sonnen, a once-respected tank trainer, has fallen from grace due to his addiction to dope, a consequence of his own despair after Zeon abandoned armored vehicles in favor of mobile suits. His personal demons threaten to jeopardize the mission, as he struggles to come to terms with his past mistakes.

Into the Fray

As the team drops into Arizona for field testing, they are met with an unexpected surprise: a team of Zakus, captured by LtC. Federico Czariano’s Federation squad, has destroyed the drop zone supply depot. Sonnen is forced into combat with the uncalibrated Hildolfr, putting his skills and the tank’s capabilities to the ultimate test.

A Bittersweet Victory

The Hildolfr proves its mettle, taking out all enemies, but at a great cost: Sonnen’s life. This tragic event serves as a poignant reminder of the human cost of war and the sacrifices made by those who fight on the front lines.

Key Players

• Principality of Zeon: Demeziere Sonnen, Martin Prochnow, Oliver May, Monique Cadillac, Hideto Washiya
• Earth Federation Forces: Federico Czariano, Mario, Jackson, Stuart, Grogorv

Mechanics

• Principality of Zeon: YMT-05 Hildolfr, MS-05B Zaku I, MS-06 Zaku II

Turning Points

• The YMT-05 Hildolfr is introduced, marking a significant shift in the war’s technological landscape.

Behind the Scenes

• The MS-05B Zaku I destroyed in this episode was chronologically the first mobile suit destroyed by another mobile suit during the One Year War.
• Czariano’s head and helmet are clipped through his collars, a minor error that adds a touch of realism to the episode.

The Bigger Picture

Howls Stained in Dusk is just one chapter in the larger narrative of Mobile Suit Gundam MS IGLOO, a series that explores the untold stories of the One Year War. As the war rages on, the stakes grow higher, and the consequences of each battle become more dire. Will the introduction of the Hildolfr be enough to turn the tide of the war, or will it ultimately prove to be a fleeting advantage?