Harmony Gold created a convoluted franchise out of Macross, Southern Cross, and MOSPEADA. Most folks would probably believe that this convolution, known as Robotech, stopped in 1985. But in Japan, Macross is an unadulterated franchise with a long list of sequels, including feature films. Among them is Macross Plus.
It was originally intended as a single feature-length movie, but business decisions led to its being split into a four-part OVA series instead. It was a hit. The following year, in 1995, it was re-edited with newly animated scenes and released theatrically in Japan as the Movie Edition.
This brings us to the Macross Plus Movie Edition 4K Remaster Set.
Revealed in March 2026, this commemorative Blu-ray set is more than just a celebration of 30 years since the film’s theatrical debut (which was in October 1995). It has special significance, IMHO. Thirty years is also a nod to the movie’s premise, as Macross Plus is set 30 years after Space War I. I am not sure if this was intentional, but it certainly feels that way, given how late this was announced [JP] as part of the 30th anniversary celebration. It almost feels like there was some boardroom discussion over whether they should do it or not, and by the time they decided, the year was already well underway. But obviously, that’s just speculation on my part.
Anyhoo, to commemorate the film’s 30th anniversary, Bandai Namco Filmworks has released a 4K Remaster Set, allowing you to scrutinize this iconic movie in eye-popping detail—and perhaps reflect on how the hell you ever put up with 320 × 240 VHS-quality video.
The Macross Plus Movie Edition 4K Remaster Set is available in both a Special Limited Edition and a retailer-exclusive First Limited Edition. The movie has been rescanned from the original film master and newly remastered in 4K. But rewatching it over and over again in stunning clarity is only part of the appeal.
The set includes both a 4K Ultra HD Blu-ray and a standard Blu-ray, along with a 24-page booklet featuring brand-new interviews with key creators, including Shoji Kawamori, Shinichiro Watanabe, Yoko Kanno, and Ichiro Itano. It also includes the original theatrical trailer.
Rounding out the package is an exclusive storage box illustrated by Ichiro Itano, the film’s action director. The First Limited Edition goes even further, adding a 52-page A4 original artwork book and an A4 acrylic display panel. It is unclear whether this version, which was sold exclusively through A-on STORE, Premium Bandai, and the Macross Tamashii Fan Club, is still available.
The set was released in Japan on March 25, 2026. Ahead of the release, Bandai Namco Filmworks celebrated the occasion by bringing the 4K REMASTER version back to Japanese theaters, with screenings beginning on March 20, 2026 [JP].
The Macross Plus Movie Edition 4K Remaster Set retails for 11,000 yen (about US$75) for the Special Limited Edition, while the First Limited Edition costs 15,400 yen (about US$105). Oh, wait. It may have sold out for both, but fret not, as it is still available on Amazon.co.jp, albeit in limited supply, at a 20% discount for 8,800 yen [JP] (~US$54).
Images: Bandai Namco Filmworks.
