In the Western hemisphere, when talking about fun, powerful robots that save the planet, it’s all about the Transformers. But in Japan and everywhere where animes are loved, it’s all about mechas.
Mecha is a genre in anime and manga that features mecha, or giant robots, in battle. In this piece, you’ll get to know the best mecha animes ever produced – perfect if you’re looking for a good bucket list. You’ll see animes like “Gundam,” “Code Geass,” and “Neon Genesis Evangelion.”
Best Mecha Animes Of All Time
‘Macross Frontier’
You’re lucky if you’re familiar with “Macross 7” and a fan because this animated series was swept out of the way for the weirdest reasons. However, the creator of the series brought the franchise back to fame with “Macross Frontier.”
Five decades after the original “Macross” series, “Macross Frontier” revolves around the story of the colonization group aboard the actual titular ship.
Fans of this anime know that Ranka Lee – an innocent young girl who wants to become a legendary singer – and Sheryl Nome, who goes by the nickname “Galactic Fairy,” are its most remarkable characters. They both get involved with a pilot protecting the Macross Frontier, Alto Saotome, as they fight an alien threat.
‘Mobile Suit Gundam’
Unfortunately, the all-time favorite “Mobile Suit Gundam,” which isn’t only an anime franchise but also a toy brand, shirt brand, and more, isn’t on the number one spot, but number two. Not bad, or is it?
Set in a distant future where humanity has migrated to space, a war commences between the corrupt Earth Federation and the rebellious Principality of Zeon, who wants independence first and foremost.
A young colony inhabitant named Amuro Ray inadvertently pilots a powerful humanoid weapon, a mecha called the Gundam, bringing him to the frontlines of the war. As he develops his role as a pilot, he must now balance his personal battles while protecting his friends and allies.
‘Code Geass’
Next on the list is “Code Geass.” Set a year after “The Black Rebellion,” when the last Black Knights have vanished into the shadows, the Britannian Empire executes Zero, their leader and figurehead. Thus, Area 11, or the United States of Japan, is once again squirming under the emperor’s oppression as the armies of the empire focus their attacks on the European front.
However, life has returned to normal for the Britannians residing in Area 11. One day in this usual life, a Britannian student decides to skip his classes in Ashford Academy to sneak out and gamble playing chess. But, unbeknownst to this young man, several forces are surveilling him, for soon enough, he will encounter his obscured past, and Zero will make his second coming.
‘86’
Yup, that’s the title. Considered one of the best mecha animes during the pandemic, “86” tells the story of the 86th faction of the Republic of San Magnolia. This faction is responsible for battling with the Giadian Empire, the longtime enemy of the republic.
Though the republic claims their war is waged completely with robots, just a single person beyond the faction knows the truth. She is Vladilena Milize, a young woman responsible for leading the faction’s forces in battle. This anime offers viewers an unflinching glimpse at both war and racism, something that every fan interested in some serious themes should watch.
‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’
Also on this list is “Neon Genesis Evangelion.” Set in a world where a global catastrophe known as the Second Impact has largely devastated, humanity must face a threat to their existence: monstrous beings called Angels. Angels are a threat? Yes, at least here in “Neon Genesis Evangelion.”
Combatting and defeating these Angels had NERV, a secret organization, constructing Evangelions or bio-mechanical weapons. Mechas, in short. Teenagers with exceptional emotional prowess, pilot these Evangelions.
But the twist in the story happens when a reserved young boy named Shinji Ikari gets summoned by his estranged dad, NERV’s commander, to pilot one of these Evangelions and defend humanity from the evil Angels. That’s quite a responsibility. As Ikari confronts his doubts, he forges friendships with Rei Ayanami and Asuka Langley Soryu, fellow pilots, while unraveling shocking truths about the Angels, NERV, and the enigmatic Human Instrumentality Project.
‘Gurren Lagann’
“Gurren Lagann” is yet another mecha-mazing show. Its story takes place in a fictional future where Lordgenome (yes, that’s the name), the Spiral King, rules Earth and forces its people to live in isolation in subterranean villages. Then, you also have Simon and Kamina, two teenagers who live in the village but wish they could go to the surface. Thus, they pilot a mecha known as Lagann and reach the surface only to encounter other humans working for Lordgenome and fight them.
‘Mobile Police Patlabor’
Meanwhile, here, a group of officers known as the Special Vehicles Unit gets summoned to deal with crimes involving gigantic robots called Labors, designed for industrial use. That plot sounds usual, but “Mobile Police Patlabor” is a well-loved anime as it merges themes with giant robots and police procedures.
“Mobile Police Patlabor” is less like “Gundam” as it injects comedy along the way. The main characters spend their time filing reports and doing maintenance on the giant robots while solving crimes. This is the perfect show for you if you prefer mecha action with tinges of comedy and slice-of-life adventures.
More Great Mecha Animes
The list goes on with:
- Full Metal Panic!
- GRIDMAN UNIVERSE
- Bubblegum Crisis
- The Ideon: Be Invoked
Unleash Your Heroic Spirit!
In conclusion, the world of mecha animes offers a thrilling blend of action, adventure, and delicate storytelling that captivates both kids and adults. From the classic tales of “Mobile Suit Gundam” to the modern brilliance of “Code Geass,” these series showcase the epic battles and emotional journeys that define this genre.
Whether you are a seasoned fan or a newcomer, exploring these iconic mecha animes will surely ignite your passion for colossal robots and heroic feats. So, dive into these amazing stories and experience the awe-inspiring mecha action. It’s time to unleash your heroic spirit.
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