David Bridges
Last year, the beloved Macross franchise was anticipated to make its debut on Disney+ as part of a strategic initiative to expand its reach beyond Japan, particularly targeting western audiences. This was significant news, considering the historical challenges and disagreements between the various entities that control Macross and its western counterpart, Robotech. Although the initial plans for a 2024 launch on Disney+ did not materialize, it appears that the long-awaited arrival is finally set to happen in the coming days, marking an exciting development for fans worldwide.
According to information shared with Anime News Network, a total of 16 out of the 18 Macross anime series and films are scheduled to premiere on Disney+ and Hulu in the United States on Monday, January 13. Despite this progress, the franchise continues to face complications in the west: crucial titles such as Super Dimension Fortress Macross and its film adaptation, Do You Remember Love?, will not be included on Disney+ or Hulu. These two works are foundational to the entire Macross narrative, yet licensing issues with Harmony Gold prevent their availability for global streaming outside of Japan.
The complete list of Macross titles debuting on Monday includes the following:
- Macross Zero
- Macross 7
- Macross 7: The Galaxy is Calling Me!
- Macross Fb7 Listen to My Song!
- Macross Frontier
- Macross Frontier: The False Songstress
- Macross Frontier: The Wings of Farewell
- Macross Frontier: Labyrinth of Time
- Macross Dynamite 7
- Macross Delta the Movie: Passionate Valkyrie
- Macross Delta: Absolute Live!!!!!!
- Macross Plus
- Macross Plus Movie Edition
- Gekijō Tanpen Macross Frontier Toki no Meikyū
- The Super Dimension Fortress Macross: Flash Back 2012
- The Super Dimension Fortress Macross II: Lovers, Again
While the catalog may not be entirely comprehensive, it still represents a substantial collection of Macross content becoming available on these streaming platforms. As with last year, we remain hopeful that the two pivotal versions of Super Dimension will eventually join their animated counterparts, allowing fans to binge-watch the entire Macross franchise in one convenient location.
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Daniel Mercer
