Gundam Sentinel became a cult hit, due to its super-detailed mechanical designs and an intricate story by veteran writer Masaya Takahashi.

They were larger, had weapons more powerful than their predecessors', the characters were older, and the plot was on a smaller scale than what is usually found in other Gundam series.

Wanting to hold onto their partnership, Bandai displayed all five of the sample model kits for the Gundam Sentinel line with full descriptions at the 1988 Japan Hobby Show.

The Model Graphix team regarded that year's event as a "Victory", compared to the previous show in 1987, where only a lone Superior Gundam was displayed without any descriptions.

Task Force Alpha, consisting of four Salamis Kai cruisers ships and the flagship Pegasus III, arrives at Pezun and prepares to attack.

However, fleet commander Brian Aeno - who was approached by a New Desides representative days before - announces that his force will side with the rebels.

Task Force Alpha begins to probe Ayers City with units of Neros which are quickly defeated by the Gundam Mk.

The EFSF counters the programming, but orders a retreat because of the high casualties and sends reinforcements, designated Task Force Beta.

Cod also goes on a rampage, destroying Task Force Alpha's three-man FAZZ squad, but is killed by EFSF pilot Ryu Roots and his Ex-S Gundam.

Master strategist Tosh Cray assumes control of the group, which he formally disbands over issues on whether it should side with the Neo Zeon.

To boost the New Desides survivors' chances of success, the Neo Zeon supplies them with the massive Zod'-Iacok mobile armor, which is capable of atmospheric reentry and will be used to bombard the Federation base in the city.

One Zoan piloted by First Sides explodes because of an overheating mega-particle beam cannon and Josh Offshore tries to stop Roots from intercepting the second.

Realizing the desperate situation, ALICE, the S Gundam's AI, ejects its Core Fighter with Ryu, Crypt, and West inside.