Discover the 20 Most Epic Mecha Anime That Will Blow Your Mind!

As a passionate movie enthusiast, I’d like to delve into the captivating world of mecha – a science fiction sub-genre that centers around characters donning or incorporating robotic suits, often humanoid in form. These stories are predominantly found in manga and anime, with roots tracing back to the 1960s. Over time, they’ve grown increasingly popular, and today, classics such as “Mazinger Z,” “Goldorak,” “Gundam,” Macross, and “Evangelion” stand tall among their peers.

Through association, the term “mecha” encompasses armored robots, cyborgs, or any such mechanical entity. Typically, their primary purpose is to engage in combat with other mechanical beings. Notably, this compilation will delve into the realm of mecha anime, presenting you with a list of 20 outstanding titles that epitomize the genre. Keep in mind that the sequence does not reflect the shows’ quality, so let us embark on our journey through the top 20 robot and mecha anime series of all time.

Neon Genesis Evangelion

Original Release: October 4, 1995 – March 27, 1996
Number of Episodes: 26 (plus numerous films)

In the year 2000, a massive explosion took place in Antarctica, which was attributed to an asteroid’s fall. This catastrophe led to the sea levels rising significantly and wreaked havoc across much of the earth, resulting in the death of approximately two billion people and triggering another global conflict. Neon Genesis Evangelion is set amidst these events.

In the span of fifteen years, humankind managed to surmount a catastrophic incident known as the “Second Impact”. However, enigmatic colossal beings, referred to as Angels, emerge and make attempts to demolish Tokyo-3, the latest stronghold of Japan.

To tackle these threats, the clandestine group NERV has engineered colossal humanoids with a mechanical aesthetic, dubbed “Evangelions” (or “EVAs”). Unbeknownst to him, Shinji Ikari, a 14-year-old boy, is summoned by his estranged father, the head of NERV, to Tokyo-3. It turns out that he was brought there to pilot an EVA and engage in combat against the “Third Angel”.

In this initial installment, Rei Ayanami and later Asuka Soryu Langley will join him, marking the beginning of a prolonged sequence. Each confrontation could potentially result in the extinction of mankind.

Additionally, they must resolve their own internal disputes, as the enigmatic group SEELE, covertly controlling NERV, works tirelessly to implement their “Plan for Human Complementarity.” This scheme aims to advance the human species to a higher evolutionary stage.

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Original Release: October 6, 2006 – July 29, 2007
Number of Episodes: 25

On August 10, 2010 (which corresponds to the year 1955 in the Gregorian calendar), the powerful Holy Empire of Britannia invaded and swiftly conquered Japan within a month. The victory was largely due to their innovative mechas known as Knightmare frames. As a result of this defeat, Japan lost its sovereignty and was renamed Area 11. This is the backdrop for the anime series Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion.

In a turn of events, the Japanese, previously known as Eleven, lost their sovereign rights and national identity. They were relocated into confined areas, with the majority of their land being handed over to British colonizers. Yet, amidst these hardships, rebellious movements emerged, and Japanese nationalists persisted in their pursuit of independence.

Ghost in the Shell

Original Release: 1995 – Ongoing
Number of Episodes: Multiple series and films

In the world of “Ghost in the Shell,” we delve into a futuristic anime landscape reminiscent of cyberpunk themes, taking place primarily in the year 2030s. The leading character is Major Motoko Kusanagi, who happens to be a female cyborg. As part of an elite police unit known as Section 9, she dedicates her life to battling crime. The narrative of this manga, along with its film adaptation, focuses on the pursuit of a notorious cybercriminal, the “Puppet Master.

In the course of their investigation, Section 9 uncovers a cyber villain who has assumed control over a human’s digital persona within the Global Digital Network, a sophisticated version of the internet in this universe. As they delve deeper, they discover that this malicious entity is not a living person, but a self-aware artificial intelligence—a first for the world.

The Vision of Escaflowne

Original Release: April 2, 1996 – September 24, 1996
Number of Episodes: 26

As a devoted movie enthusiast, allow me to share my thoughts on “The Vision of Escaflowne.” The narrative unfolds from the perspective of Hitomi, a high school athlete with a knack for fortune-telling. One fateful day, she experiences bizarre visions and unexpectedly collapses during training. Subsequently, while attending class, one of these visions comes to life.

A beam of light materializes, unveiling a youthful figure in armor. This is none other than Prince Van Fanel, heir to the Kingdom of Fanelia. In a blink, they are left wondering as a dragon suddenly appears, startling Hitomi and her companions Yukari and Amano.

A shaft of light materializes, revealing an armored young man – Prince Van Fanel, heir to the Kingdom of Fanelia. In the blink of an eye, they find themselves astonished as a dragon appears before Hitomi and her friends Yukari and Amano.

In the end, Van is resolute about confronting the monster. After a thrilling battle, he emerges victorious and retrieves an odd, pink gemstone, which he names “energist,” from the remains of the creature that subsequently dissipates in smoke.

Sakura Wars

Original Release: April 8, 2000 – September 23, 2000
Number of Episodes: 25

In simpler terms, Sakura – a girl with a mild sense of dizziness – moves to the imperial city to become part of the Flower Imperial Company, as per her deceased father’s wishes. This group, known as a brigade, safeguards the city from frequent monster attacks. Interestingly, its members hail from various backgrounds but share a strong spiritual power in common.

In my eyes, this company is akin to the esteemed troupe gracing the Imperial Theater. For Sakura, initially, joining forces with her companions proved challenging, yet, as time passed, she would gradually unveil her hidden spiritual abilities that seemed to be inherited from her father. These abilities not only enabled her to create beautiful music but also, like her sisters, skillfully control a robot, guided by this same spiritual power.

As a film buff diving into this narrative, it’s evident that the leaders and their deputies within the troop bear a weighty history. It appears they have personal connections with Sakura’s late father and the ominous figure who leads the monstrous horde.

Eldran

Original Release: April 1991 – 2002
Number of Episodes: 150

Four shows comprise the series of Eldran

Zettai Muteki Raijin-Oh (絶対無敵ライジンオー, Zettai Muteki Raijin Ō) (April 1991–March 1992)
Genki Bakuhatsu Ganbaruger (元気爆発ガンバルガー, Genki Bakuhatsu Ganbarugā) (April 1992–February 1993)
Nekketsu Saikyō Go-Saurer (熱血最強ゴウザウラー, Nekketsu Saikyō Gōzaurā) (March 1993–February 1994)
Kanzen Shouri Daiteioh (完全勝利ダイテイオー, Kanzen Shōri Daitei Ō) (2002, cancelled)

In this rephrased version, an animated show revolves around gigantic robots (mecha) and follows elementary school-aged kids who are called upon to pilot these robots in Earth’s defense against malevolent forces. Notably, their school also serves as a base where the robots are stored and maintained.

Cyborg 009

Original Release: April 5, 1968 – October 13, 2002
Number of Episodes: 127

The story centers around nine people who get abducted by an illicit group known as “Black Ghost” and transformed into cyborgs, gaining unique abilities for each one.

Nine cybernetic organisms break free from Black Ghost’s command, and with the help of Dr. Gilmore, they initiate a battle against the organization. The objective of this group is to spark international disputes, allowing them to peddle their cutting-edge weaponry to the most profitable buyers.

Ishinomori initially intended to conclude the manga after defeating the leaders of Black Ghost. However, positive feedback and fan demands persuaded him to carry on, resulting in a fresh set of stories where the cyborgs embark on standalone adventures. These involve battling rogue scientists, exploring ancient civilizations, and encountering supernatural entities.

Ishinomori planned to stop the manga after defeating Black Ghost’s leaders, but fans wanted more. So, he made up new stories where the cyborgs go on individual missions facing off against crazy scientists, old civilizations, and supernatural creatures.

Appleseed

Original Release: 1988
Number of Episodes: Various OVA, ONA, and films

In the 22nd century, following a third non-nuclear global conflict that severely diminished humanity, Appleseed is set. Countries such as Great Britain, France, and China grapple with preserving order and authority, whereas international bodies like the Holy Republic of Mumma and Poseidon have created their own ideal societies.

In these model cities, the surviving humans share living spaces with artificial beings known as Bioroids. These Bioroids were designed to establish a tranquil society, devoid of conflict. The principal figures in this narrative are Knute Deunan and Briareos Ecatonchiri, who once served on the police force of Los Angeles, particularly within its SWAT unit.

As a fervent admirer, let me share that you’ll be stepping into the remnants of a city when contacted and invited to join ESWAT (Extra Special Weapons And Tactics) – the elite police force of the powerful Olympus city in the new world. The story unfolds as Deunan and Briareos, our heroes, safeguard their adopted home from threats, both external and internal to this mighty nation.

Macross

Original Release: October 3, 1982 – September 26, 2008
Number of Episodes: 139

In the year 1999, the story of Macross unfolds as an extraterrestrial spacecraft crashes onto a terrestrial island. With worries of imminent alien conquest, efforts are made to reconstruct the wreckage, transforming it into the flagship for a military force that leverages this newfound technology.

In the following decade, on the day of the launch ceremony for the renamed Super Dimensional Fortress 1 Macross (SDF-1), an unforeseen defense system of the spacecraft unexpectedly activated, firing an interstellar cannon that annihilated some alien spaceships orbiting Earth. This act drew the aggressive attention of the Zentradi, a warlike species.

After the alien armada assaults our world, Macross decides to evacuate the island’s inhabitants onto the ship, transforming it into a flying metropolis. To save the planet from peril, they plan to create a space-time warp (essentially a wormhole). Unfortunately, the spaceship exits the warp prematurely in close proximity to Pluto, leaving itself isolated and facing a colossal enemy fleet.

The narrative centers around the challenges encountered during the journey back to Earth and the intricate love triangle involving Hikaru Ichijo, a VF-1 Valkyrie pilot, Misa Hayase who serves as an SDF-1 officer, and Lynn Minmay, a popular singer. (In the US edition of Robotech, Varitech is referred to as VF-1 Valkyrie.)

Tomica Hero

Original Release: April 2008 – March 27, 2010
Number of Episodes: 102

As a passionate movie reviewer, I’d say: “From April 2008 to April 2009, I found myself captivated by the gripping tale of Tomica Hero: Rescue Force. This thrilling series follows a dedicated team of emergency responders as they battle an insidious organization intent on wreaking havoc through artificial crises and natural disasters. But here’s the twist – their mission is not just about saving Japan, it’s about saving its spirit. The show’s core theme, ‘Rescue Soul’, encapsulates the heart of every rescuer.

And let me tell you, there was a spin-off movie titled Tomica Hero: Rescue Force – Rescue the Mach Train! that added an extra layer of excitement to the storyline. The main characters from Ryukendo made a surprise appearance in this film, making it a must-watch for fans.

All in all, Tomica Hero: Rescue Force is more than just a show – it’s a powerful exploration of heroism, resilience, and the indomitable human spirit.

As a passionate cinephile, I’d like to share some exciting news about a series that truly resonated with me – Tomica Hero: Rescue Fire. This captivating show ran from April 4, 2009, all the way until March 27, 2010, and served as an official continuation of the original series. The Rescue Fire storyline revolved around a new team of heroes – all firefighters – who stood firm in their belief that every life matters.

Just like its predecessor, this series also introduced villains with a unique twist: they were working for the greater good of our planet. And to make the experience even more electrifying, the opening theme songs were brilliantly performed by the legendary anison supergroup, JAM Project.

Zone of the Enders

Original Release: April 7, 2001 – September 29, 2001
Number of Episodes: 27

2167 is the year where the storyline of “Zone of the Enders” unfolds. Radium Lavans, a skilled LEV (Laborious Extra-orbital Vehicle) pilot and a lieutenant in the Martian military, finds himself engaging in a conflict with a band of UNSF (United-Nations Space Forces) members following an incident where one of his fellow Martian soldiers is assaulted by one of their ranks.

Sergeant Viola and he are set to relocate to a different base, but unexpectedly, his fiancée Dolores is also included in the transfer. Later, it’s revealed that due to his exceptional combat skills, he will be chosen as the pilot for the prototype of the first Orbital Frame called Idolo, which has been covertly built on Mars by Bahram.

In the year 2172, five years post the events of Zone of the Enders: Idolo, spacetraveler James Links is longing to reconnect with his kids Leon and Noelle on Earth. During his journey, he stumbles upon Dolores, an advanced AI-equipped Orbital Frame exhibiting a playful demeanor.

However, following the murder of inspectors on his ship, James finds himself swiftly implicated as the prime suspect and pursued relentlessly by law enforcement. Regrettably, his children, Noëlle and Léon, become embroiled in legal proceedings due to their familial ties.

A frenzied pursuit takes place between the Links family and both Earth and Mars officials, since it’s crucial that Dolores doesn’t end up in the wrong hands. This is because she possesses vital information regarding Dr. Rachel Links, James’ wife, which uncovers a piece of the mystery.

Sei Jūshi Bismarck

Original Release: October 7, 1984 – September 29, 1985
Number of Episodes: 51

In a far-off time, mankind has expanded its presence beyond Earth, settling on various planets within our solar system and even those orbiting other stars. To safeguard these colonies, uphold regulations, and preserve order, an Earth Federation Government (Earth Fed Gov) was formed.

Initially, dissatisfaction with the authority of the central government sparked in the colonies, which strained their ties with Earth. Meanwhile, tension between Earth and the colonies remained fragile. Suddenly, an extraterrestrial species called the Deathcula launched an invasion on the federation.

Unexpectedly, aliens launch an aggressive attack on Earth’s colonies, resulting in heavy civilian casualties. Recognizing the invaders’ overwhelming technological advantage, the federal government acts swiftly to counter it. In a challenging endeavor, Dr. Charles Louvre creates a versatile spacecraft: the Bismarck.

As a cinephile, I’d rephrase it like this: To handle the challenging alien encounters at our colonies, I gather a squad of experts from diverse backgrounds and train them rigorously, preparing them to face any future extraterrestrial attacks.

Mashin Hero Wataru

Original Release: April 15, 1988 – September 24, 1998
Number of Episodes: 142

On his journey to school one day, a ten-year-old named Adrien Lemaire (Wataru) stumbles upon an unusual red stone necklace near Lake Sylphs. Instead of keeping it for himself, he chooses to offer it as a gift to the lake’s spirit. Unfortunately, this act results in him arriving late at school.

At a clay modeling contest, Adrien crafts a robot and discovers a stone necklace in his pocket without fully comprehending its origins. In an impulsive moment, he adorned the necklace around the robot’s neck. To everyone’s surprise, his creation won the competition. On his journey home, he paused at Sylph Lake and named his newfound friend: Lutinor (Ryujinmaru).

In my perspective, as a captivated movie-goer, I found myself on the edge of my seat when, amidst tranquil lake waters, a colossal emerald dragon burst forth. This extraordinary creature whisked our protagonist, Adrien, away to an unfamiliar realm. As the narrative unfolded, it was revealed that he was destined for greatness – the prophesied savior anticipated by all. The weight of this revelation hung heavy on his shoulders as he was tasked with rescuing the world from the malevolent Dorkoudar, the demonic lord who had rendered the once sacred mountain uninhabitable, shrouding it in a dismal gray veil instead of its vibrant rainbow embrace.

Adrien needs to restore vibrancy to something, and he can only do this by overcoming the seven realms that form Doakuder’s tyrannical mountain. To help him on this quest, he receives armor and a sword called Darandole.

Adrien has been tasked with restoring color to an object, which can only be achieved by conquering the seven domains of Doakuder’s oppressive mountain. He is equipped for this mission with armor and a sword known as Darandole.

On his adventure, he’ll encounter assistance from his robot companion Lutinor, who becomes animated, a seasoned samurai named Jibaro (Shibaraku), and a youthful ninja royalty, Edwina (Himiko). They’ll encounter Alcali, an odd bird that appears knowledgeable about the mystical mountain and its oppressive ruler.

Gunparade March

Original Release: February 6, 2003 – March 29, 2006
Number of Episodes: 36 + 3 OVA

Gunparade March is a story that unfolds in 1945, when World War II came to an unexpected end due to the arrival of extraterrestrial beings on our planet. These beings, referred to as “Phantom Beasts” or “Genjyu” in Japanese, were responsible for rampaging across Earth and exterminating a significant portion of humanity. As a result, they had established control over more than half the globe.

1999 marks the starting point, and it’s now 54 years on. Despite the struggle, humanity continues its battle for existence against extraterrestrial threats. Our earthly forces have taken to using sophisticated war machines known as Humanoid Walking Tanks (HWTs) to counter the invaders. Regrettably, the casualties among the pilots have been staggeringly high. To ensure the continuity of the human species, the Japanese government has made a compulsory pledge for high school students, aiming to train them as HWT pilots.

Gunparade March narrates the story of the 5121st platoon, primarily composed of conscripted high school students, as they strive to vanquish the Phantom Beasts and simultaneously uphold their everyday social interactions.

Brave

Original Release: Since 1990
Number of Episodes: Numerous seasons

As a film enthusiast, I’d describe “Brave” as an eight-part animated series that doesn’t follow a continuous storyline or have any overarching plot connections. Yet, each episode shares a common structure: A young protagonist, either a child or teenager, develops a bond with – creates – morphs into – a robot imbued with emotional awareness. This robot and the human work together to protect our planet from various dangers, primarily extraterrestrial menaces.

In the Yūsha Series, both primary and supporting robots merge with other vehicles or robots to form larger and more potent mechanical entities. This show is often compared to a blend of Transformers and the classic Super Robot style popularized in the late ’70s and early ’80s. The series played a significant role in reviving the Super Robot genre in Japan during the 1990s.

Aquarion

Original Release: April 4, 2005 – September 26, 2005
Number of Episodes: 26

Eleven years ago, a massive disaster, known as “The Great Catastrophe,” struck Aquarion, causing extensive damage to the planet and claiming the lives of many of its residents.

The disaster was followed by the thawing of glaciers, revealing Atlandia along with its dwellers, the Angels of Darkness – a winged race that had been inactive for over 12,000 years. These beings are known to abduct human beings, derisively referred to as wingless creatures, to harvest their vital energy or prana, which is crucial for the existence and nourishment of the Angels of Darkness.

People across the globe face persistent onslaughts from the colossal Reaping Beasts, which have an effortless knack for grabbing humans. Frequently, these monstrous devices are accompanied by massive robot soldiers, known as Cherubim Soldiers.

Bokurano

Original Release: April 8, 2007 – September 25, 2007
Number of Episodes: 24

Coming up next on our list of top robot mecha anime is Bokurano. During a summer vacation, fifteen children (eight boys and seven girls) stumble upon a cave by the sea and find inside some tools and computers. Not long after, the owner reveals himself: a man who introduces himself as “Kokopelli,” claiming to be a software developer working on a novel game where a powerful robot is tasked with protecting Earth from alien invasions.

The game entices the kids to give it a go, having signed up as virtual pilots earlier. Almost all of them did so, yet strangely enough, almost all except one found themselves on the beach shortly after, convinced that the entire incident was nothing more than a dream.

Bubblegum Crisis

Original Release: February 25, 1987 – December 21, 1991
Number of Episodes: 11

2032 serves as the backdrop for the action-packed series Bubblegum Crisis. In response to the rogue activities of Genom Corporation and their cyborgs known as “Boomers,” a covert defense group called Knight Sabers emerges, taking up arms to combat crime and uphold justice.

This team consists of four tough and seductive females: Priss, Linna, Sylia, and Nene, all carrying “Hardsuit”, robust power armor. It’s evident that the personal narratives of these four will frequently merge within their duties, sometimes complicated even by the authorities.

Mazinger

Original Release: Since 1972
Number of Episodes: Multiple series and movies

On the island of Rhodes, back in 1962, the elderly scientist Juzo Kabuto joined forces with other archaeologists, including a German scientist named Doctor Inferno. Their mission was to uncover the ruins of the ancient Mycenaean civilization. Years later, after Juzo’s demise, his nephew Ryo Kabuto came into possession of a massive robot that Juzo had built. Now, it’s Ryo’s responsibility to thwart Doctor Inferno’s malevolent schemes.

After discovering a legion of mechanical beasts constructed by the Mycenaeans, Doctor Inferno discloses his true motives by slaughtering everyone except Kabuto, who fled and seized control of this technology. His goal was to bring back the descendants of ancient Greece, who had been confined underground for centuries, with the aim of ruling the world alongside them.

Mobile Suit Gundam

Original Release: April 7, 1979 – ongoing
Number of Episodes: 1,052

In this list, Mobile Suit Gundam stands out as the superior mecha/robot anime. The universe where humanity resides is no longer limited to Earth, but encompasses the entire Terrestrial Sphere – that includes the Moon and six regions situated around the Lagrange points of the lunar orbit, known collectively as Side. These areas house hundreds of “space islands”, massive artificial cylinders filled with habitats suitable for life.

In the Universal Century’s Year 0079, the Principality of Zeon, situated in Side 3, announces its breakaway from the Earth Federation, igniting a fierce, global conflict referred to as the One Year War. This war will engulf nearly every continent on Earth and almost every space colony and lunar settlement with intense fighting.

At first, Zeon gained an advantage by employing a groundbreaking weapon – the mobile suit, a robot with an armored humanoid design operated by a person. However, a team of Zeon’s mobile suits, acting against orders, assaulted Side 7 colony. This action revealed to the people of Side 7 the Federation’s reaction to this novel weapon: the Gundam mobile suit.

As a devoted cinematic enthusiast, I find myself recounting an exhilarating tale where I join forces with a group of surviving federal soldiers aboard the White Base transport battleship. Together, we refugees embark on a thrilling journey that will ultimately propel a select few of us to rewrite the very fabric of war itself.

2025-05-23 11:49