In a distant future, long after the fires of the Exodus War have subsided, tensions remain high between The Floating Islands of Elysia and Lower Earth. Elysia took victory and maintain their military superiority with robotic battle mecha of immense power called, Gears. Lower Earth receives a beacon of hope when the young cadet, Nasir “Nas” Williams stumbles across the Legendary M.A.D. (mobile armored deployable) Gear call sign, Yasuke. But if Nas is going to end the tyranny of Elysia, he’ll need his crew with him, he’ll need the band of unlikely heroes called the Air Force Ones.
In the planet Aiye's distant past, islands were erected and raised miles above the surface. These islands were controlled by the Elysian Corporation and entry to this new, fertile place was restricted to the wealthiest, most prestigious and those deemed “systemically necessary.” These classifications and the resulting unrest ignited what would be known as The Exodus War. Elysia, as the Floating Islands were now called, raged war on Lower Earth, attempting to keep the masses from the peace and prosperity that the Isles enjoyed.
To control the populace, Elysia created the Elysian Defense Force, led by their most powerful weapons, The M.A.D. Gear. But the people of Lower Earth fought back, creating Gears of their own. The war raged without end until an armistice was called and the Pantheon Games were created to both celebrate the conflict and quell the fires of retribution. But this fragile peace was not to last as Elysia attacked the Pantheon Games killing thousands of civilians and reigniting the conflict. Lower Earth began turning the tide against the EDF, until the original Yasuke led a suicide attack that cost the lives of the majority of M.A.D. Gear pilots and ended the war in favor of Elysia. Since that time, no new M.A.D. Gears have been created, with the EDF moving to the smaller and more cost-effective Strike Gear models, used to both police Lower Earth and protect Elysia.
The destruction caused during the Exodus War created a Ward system of colonies of the former continents. The ruling One World Government enforced by Elysia, is a puppet government used to further the subjugation of Lower Earth. Elysia maintains control over Lower Earth by limiting its crops, technology and social advancement. But as tensions grow, discord within Elysia itself could spell the end for their iron-fisted rule over Lower Earth.
Fans of Gundam, Macross, Space Operas, and even Samurai Champloo will love AIR FORCE ONES. The Gundam franchise is one of the 10 highest grossing Anime franchises of all time and this is the first series to bring West Coast and Black American culture into that fold. Fans of GIANT FIGHTING ROBOTS, shonen, big battles, engaging characters and shadow conspiracies will also love the story woven through AIR FORCE ONES, as we find out things aren't what they seem, even on the idealistic Floating Islands of Elysia.
Nasir "Nas" Williams
An impulsive 3rd year cadet, Nas prepares for his mandated military service. He enjoys his hoverboard and often uses it as a means to escape. He’s plagued by dreams he doesn’t understand, wherein he’s taken away as a child. He’s protective of his younger sister, but also bears the scars of that protection. He lost his left arm in an attack on The Pantheon Games years prior. When the Elysian government attacks the 7th Ward (formerly Los Angeles, California) Nas pilots the Legendary M.A.D. Gear, Yasuke- The Black Wolf into battle. Strong in his convictions and pig-headed in his resolve, Nas may be the last hope for Lower Earth.
Maximillion "Maui" Grey
Maui is Nas’ best friend and would rather spend a day repairing an engine than reading a book, but he's still all heart. He’s well versed in the history of the Exodus War and the use of Gears. Maui is a 3rd year cadet that met Nas on the first day of academy and they have been friends ever since. Maui uses his nickname as a way to honor his younger brother, Miles, who was killed in the Pantheon Games Attack. Maui pilots the Legendary M.A.D. Gear, Ogun- The Yellow Eyed Beast, at Nas’ side when the 7th ward is threatened with destruction by the Elysian government.
Skye Williams
Skye is Nas’ younger sister and a 1st year cadet with high aptitude for Officer Training but a lack of impulse control. Skye is smart but quick to anger and insubordination. She carries a large chip on her shoulder and guilt for Nas losing his arm attempting to save her. She will never say it outright, but she’s extremely protective of Nas and will do whatever it takes to keep him out of trouble. When the Elysian government threatens the 7th Ward, Skye pilots the Legendary M.A.D. Gear, Kitsune- The Nine Tails, alongside Nas and Maui.
The Commander
Not much is known about The Commander apart from him having the complete faith of the Elysian Defense Force's Admiral Cain and command of the EDF Hades Fleet. His horribly scarred face is hidden behind a ceremonial mask and his only companion is a Valet Automaton. The Commander takes control of the last Legendary M.A.D. Gear in EDF control, Gilgamesh- The God Killer. Ruthlessly efficient, emotionless, and a great warrior, The Commander is a terror on the battlefield. He has a singular mission and no one will stop him from achieving his goal.
The Yasuke
The Yasuke is the Legendary M.A.D. Gear that led Elysia's forces in the last battle of the Exodus War. The Yasuke was an unparalleled warrior, nicknamed The Black Wolf for its ferociousness in battle.
The Ogun
The Ogun was a powerful Gear, created for demolitions and heavy support. Known as The Yellow Eyed Beast, for the destruction it caused, the Ogun once stood as a symbol of Elysia's unwavering power over Lower Earth.
The Kitsune
The Kitsune, or The Nine Tails, as it was known was designed for heavy and ranged artillery. Originally a light scout Gear that was converted to inflict compound damage at range, the Kitsune became known for fast, powerful attacks from distance.
The Gilgamesh
The perfect warrior. The Gilgamesh was feared, even by other Legendary M.A.D. Gear pilots. With a face that looked like death, The Gilgamesh became known as The God Killer and was the only Gear that returned from the last battle of the Exodus War intact.
