Mecha Anime That Are Rip-Offs Of Gundam

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‘Mobile Suit Gundam’ completely changed the anime world by inventing the ‘Real Robot’ genre. After its success, many studios tried to create similar shows with war stories focused on politics and robots designed to seem realistic. These shows frequently use familiar elements, like villains hiding their faces or ordinary teenagers unexpectedly piloting powerful machines. Some were simply made to sell toys, but others took those ideas and created something new. This list looks at the many mecha anime series that wouldn’t exist without the groundwork laid by ‘Gundam’.

‘Metal Armor Dragonar’ (1987–1988)

This show was created as a fresh take on the classic Gundam series. It centers around three friends who unexpectedly find themselves piloting powerful military robots to fight against an empire based on the moon. The story closely follows the plot of the original 1979 series, particularly the theme of a spaceship crew trying to escape enemy lines. Notably, the robots were designed by Kunio Okawara, who also created the original Gundam designs.

‘Blue Comet SPT Layzner’ (1985–1986)

The show centers around an alien invasion, with the main character flying a powerful, high-tech robot controlled by artificial intelligence. It draws inspiration from the Cold War and has a realistic, somewhat dark tone reminiscent of classic robot shows. Many viewers have noted that the main character is similar to the often-reluctant heroes seen in series like Gundam. The robots themselves are designed to look practical and believable, rather than flashy or over-the-top.

‘Heavy Metal L-Gaim’ (1984–1985)

This series, directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, was a precursor to ‘Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam,’ allowing him to experiment with ideas he’d later refine. The story centers on a revolt against a cruel leader in a unique solar system with two suns. The mecha designs were innovative, featuring inner skeletons that went on to inspire many model kits. The plot delves into complex political maneuvering and the challenges faced by a young pilot thrust into a leadership role.

‘Combat Mecha Xabungle’ (1982–1983)

This show offers a gritty, Western-style take on the ‘Real Robot’ genre. It follows a character driven by revenge in a chaotic world where massive machines are used for both travel and fighting. Unlike many similar shows that focus solely on darkness, this one blends serious themes of war with a surprising amount of humor. It’s become a beloved classic thanks to its unique look and richly developed world.

‘Fang of the Sun Dougram’ (1981–1983)

This series stands out for its realistic portrayal of both fighting a rebel war and the political games involved. It follows a group of rebels battling a controlling government, using mass-produced armored suits. These suits aren’t portrayed as sleek and fast, but rather as powerful, slow-moving tanks with legs. The story delves into the difficult choices of revolution and the blurry lines between right and wrong in wartime.

‘Armored Trooper Votoms’ (1983–1984)

This anime pushes the idea of robots as tools to its furthest point, portraying mecha as easily replaceable. The main character, Chirico Cuvie, is a soldier constantly on the move who flies standard-issue robots called Scopedogs. Instead of giving him a special, one-of-a-kind machine, the show emphasizes his ability to survive in tough situations. It’s still celebrated for its realistic, bleak setting and focus on believable science fiction.

‘Round Vernian Vifam’ (1983–1984)

This series follows a group of children who find themselves stranded on a warship after an alien invasion. To get home, they have to learn how to fly the ship and control its powerful robots. Like the original Gundam, the show focuses on the emotional impact of war on young people, creating a gripping and intense story about forced maturity.

‘Aura Battler Dunbine’ (1983–1984)

This show takes the classic giant robot (mecha) concept and places it in a fantasy world called Byston Well. The story follows a normal person who’s brought to this world to pilot bug-like robots, using his own life energy to power them. It was one of the first series to successfully blend fantasy and mecha elements, paving the way for many similar shows. The plot explores what happens when powerful technology is introduced to a less developed society.

‘Space Runaway Ideon’ (1980–1981)

This series is often compared to Gundam, but with a more somber tone. It centers around a remarkably powerful, ancient robot unearthed by humans, which triggers a devastating war between humanity and an alien species. The story delves into how misunderstandings and fear can lead to destruction, and it’s known for its incredibly dark and expansive ending.

‘Panzer World Galient’ (1984–1985)

This show creates a unique world by mixing medieval fantasy and futuristic technology. It follows a prince on a quest to win back his kingdom, aided by a powerful, ancient robot he unearths. The series combines classic fantasy elements like swords and magic with the detailed, realistic robots often seen in sci-fi, and features characters and machines with a strong, armored appearance.

‘Giant Gorg’ (1984)

Okay, so I just finished watching this series, and it’s a really charming adventure. It centers around a young boy and this incredible, enigmatic blue robot he meets on a secluded island. Forget huge battles and war – this story is much more about the mystery of the island and, honestly, the beautiful connection that develops between the boy and the robot. It’s that relationship that really drives the emotional weight of everything. And visually? Stunning. The animation is incredibly smooth, and the character designs, done by Yoshikazu Yasuhiko, are just fantastic.

‘Genesis Climber MOSPEADA’ (1983–1984)

This series follows soldiers fighting to take back Earth from alien invaders. It’s well-known for its unique motorcycles that transform into powerful armor the pilots wear. The story centers on the strong bond between a small group of resistance fighters as they embark on a difficult mission. Later, this show became part of the larger ‘Robotech’ story as its third chapter.

‘Super Dimension Cavalry Southern Cross’ (1984)

This show portrays a war on the planet Glorie, fought between human colonists and two alien groups. It centers around three different military divisions, each using unique mecha robots. The series highlights realistic squad tactics and the structure of military command. It originally formed the second part of the ‘Robotech’ saga.

‘Special Armored Battalion Dorvack’ (1983–1984)

This series centers around an elite military team that uses transforming machines – able to switch between vehicle and robot forms – to defend against an alien attack. While the show features typical action seen in the ‘real robot’ genre, with an emphasis on teamwork, it’s best known for its incredibly detailed and innovative transforming toys.

‘Valvrave the Liberator’ (2013)

A group of students living on a space colony unexpectedly discover powerful, ancient robots hidden under their school and decide to fight for their independence. The show is fast-paced and combines supernatural themes with intense political conflict. Piloting these robots comes at a cost – the pilots risk losing their humanity. The series puts a fresh spin on the classic ‘real robot’ genre with surprising and unexpected plot developments.

‘Aldnoah.Zero’ (2014–2015)

This story is about a war between Earth and a more advanced Martian civilization. The main character is a strategist who relies on skill and a training robot to overcome the enemy’s powerful machines, rather than just brute force. The war begins after a princess is assassinated, a plot point similar to those found in historical dramas. The differences between the two cultures are also shown through the designs of their technology.

‘Majestic Prince’ (2013)

This show follows a group of young, genetically engineered pilots who fight aliens using giant robots. The series centers on a team of unlikely heroes who have to learn to cooperate and master their powerful machines. Expect fast-paced battles and impressive robot designs, alongside a thought-provoking look at the morality of creating soldiers bred for warfare.

‘Argento Soma’ (2000–2001)

This show centers around a man mourning the loss of his girlfriend, who joins a special team to get revenge on the aliens responsible. He pilots a unique, cobbled-together alien machine instead of a typical robot. The series is emotionally heavy, exploring the protagonist’s inner struggles, and offers a fresh take on the usual hero found in mecha-style shows.

‘Fafner in the Azure’ (2004)

On a seemingly idyllic island, a group of children learn it’s actually a heavily fortified base built to shield them from a dangerous alien species made of silicon. To pilot the powerful machines defending the island, they must undergo a risky synchronization process that slowly harms their physical and mental health. The show’s character designs, created by Hisashi Hirai, are noticeably similar to those in ‘Mobile Suit Gundam SEED’. The story is famous for its bleak atmosphere and intense, life-or-death situations.

‘Heroic Age’ (2007)

This anime is a sci-fi adventure inspired by the classic Greek myth of Hercules and his twelve challenges. With humanity facing destruction, hope rests on a young, untamed boy who can turn into a powerful, robotic giant. Expect epic space battles and a story driven by ancient predictions as different groups fight for survival. It’s a unique mix of giant robot action and mythological tales.

‘Linebarrels of Iron’ (2008–2009)

A teen who’s constantly bullied unexpectedly brings a giant robot to life, giving him amazing abilities. However, instead of becoming a typical hero, he’s actually quite conceited and self-centered. The show blends realistic robot warfare with over-the-top energy blasts, and features a story full of hidden groups and journeys to other dimensions.

‘AMAIM Warrior at the Borderline’ (2021–2022)

In a future where Japan is under foreign control, a young boy finds an artificial intelligence that gives him the power to fight for his country’s freedom. The series explores themes of economic hardship and rebellion, all set against a high-tech backdrop. The robots featured in the show have distinctive and unusual designs, moving differently than typical humanoid machines. The story largely follows the classic trope of a boy and his robot working together to turn the tide of war.

‘Muv-Luv Alternative: Total Eclipse’ (2012)

This series follows a group of test pilots creating advanced fighter planes to defend Earth from an alien invasion called the BETA. It explores the tensions between countries as they work together to survive, even with humanity facing total destruction. The robots in the show are designed to look like realistic fighter jets, and the series mixes action-packed, often violent, battles with romantic subplots.

‘Knights of Sidonia’ (2014–2015)

In this sci-fi series, the last of humanity travels through space on a giant spaceship, constantly evading alien creatures that can change their form. Skilled pilots protect the ship using powerful robots called Gardes in intense, weightless battles. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of space travel and how things move in combat, brought to life with detailed 3D animation.

‘Captain Earth’ (2014)

The series follows a high school student who discovers a hidden base and becomes the pilot of a unique robot named the Earth Engine. The story centers on a team of young pilots working together to protect Earth from seemingly unstoppable alien invaders. A key element of the show is a dynamic transformation sequence where the robot combines with various train-like parts. Throughout the series, the characters grapple with the challenges of growing up and discovering what they truly want.

‘Star Driver’ (2010–2011)

A young boy finds himself stranded on an island, where he uncovers a hidden group that fights battles in a strange, alternate world. Their powerful fighting machines, called Cybodies, are beautifully designed. The show is visually stunning and features dramatic, over-the-top character moments. At its heart, it’s a story about young people rejecting the expectations placed upon them by society.

‘Dual! Parallel Trouble Adventure’ (1999)

This show is a funny parody of popular robot anime like ‘Neon Genesis Evangelion’ and Gundam. It follows a main character who ends up in another world and fights in robot tournaments. Filled with nods to other shows in the genre, it’s a lighthearted and affectionate tribute to the history of giant robot anime.

‘Martian Successor Nadesico’ (1996–1997)

The show centers around a cook unexpectedly thrust into the role of pilot on a battleship crewed by a quirky group of individuals. It cleverly subverts typical war stories by contrasting the grim realities of combat with the often-romanticized depictions seen in anime, all while being part of an anime itself. The series blends humor with unexpectedly emotional and sad scenes, and it explores whether being a mecha pilot is truly something to be celebrated.

‘Full Metal Panic!’ (2002)

This action series follows a teenage mercenary hired to guard a high school girl who unknowingly possesses the key to powerful, futuristic technology. It blends lighthearted school life with intense military battles fought with giant robots called Arm Slaves. The robots are realistically designed, and the combat is strategically focused, creating a story that combines the excitement of shonen action with the dramatic depth of ‘real robot’ anime.

‘Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion’ (2006–2007)

A prince who was forced into exile gains the ability to control others and starts a revolution against a powerful worldwide empire. The series is known for its exciting, fast-paced battles featuring robots on roller skates called Knightmare Frames. It’s famous for unexpected plot twists and a main character who isn’t simply good or evil. The show blends complex political maneuvering with the familiar setting of high school life.

‘Eureka Seven’ (2005–2006)

This anime follows a young boy who falls in with a rebellious group of mercenary pilots who battle in giant robots – and happen to be avid surfers of the sky. The show is filled with music and reflects the energy of youth culture, centering on a love story between the main character and an enigmatic girl who controls the most powerful robot. It also touches on important issues like accepting others and protecting the environment.

‘Gargantia on the Verdurous Planet’ (2013)

After a galactic war, a soldier finds himself marooned on Earth, now a world almost entirely covered by water and stripped of its technology. He joins a community of peaceful scavengers, but must keep his powerful combat robot a secret. The story explores the clash between his training for war and the quiet life he finds, and asks whether constant conflict is truly necessary.

‘Kuromukuro’ (2016)

This action-packed series follows a samurai warrior who’s been brought to the present day to battle demons with the help of a strange, cube-shaped robot. The story takes place at a UN research facility and mixes the excitement of school life with an alien invasion. These robots need two people to work at their best, and the show cleverly combines the traditions of historical dramas with the futuristic world of science fiction.

‘Back Arrow’ (2021)

Okay, so I just finished watching this incredible show, and let me tell you, the premise is wild. It starts with this mysterious guy showing up in this walled-off city, claiming he’s from the outside. But the really cool part? The people there don’t fight with weapons – they summon these amazing robots, and the robots are literally born from their own beliefs and strength of will. It’s visually stunning, because each robot totally reflects the personality of the person controlling it. Beyond the action, it really gets you thinking about whether our lives are already mapped out, or if we actually have the power to choose our own path. It’s a seriously thought-provoking show.

‘Revisions’ (2019)

Part of Shibuya suddenly jumps centuries into the future, where they’re met by a dangerous robotic enemy. A team of high school students is recruited to pilot giant robots – called String Puppets – to defend the people. The show uses impressive 3D animation to showcase fast-paced battles and incredibly detailed robots, and it centers around the leader’s strong desire to be a hero.

‘Zegapain’ (2006)

This anime follows a swimmer who learns his life is a simulation. He’s then tasked with piloting a giant robot in the real world to protect humanity. The story explores themes of data, memory, and the nature of existence. These robots are unique, powered by light and built with see-through armor. The series is famous for its thought-provoking twists and its generally sad, reflective mood.

‘Gasaraki’ (1998–1999)

This series blends the artistry of classic Japanese Noh theater with the action of modern combat. It features incredibly detailed, human-like robots created by a major company for military purposes. The story delves into complex political schemes and how war is used to control economies. It’s a deliberately paced show that emphasizes conversations and creating a strong sense of mood.

‘Flag’ (2006–2007)

This series feels like a real documentary, showing a war photographer’s footage of a conflict involving giant robots. Everything you see is presented as if through the photographer’s camera, creating an intimate and immersive experience. The show highlights the attempts to keep the peace and the impact of the war on people, portraying the robots as tools of war rather than symbols of heroism.

‘Blue Gender’ (1999–2000)

After waking up from a long, frozen sleep, a man discovers Earth has been taken over by massive, insect-like creatures known as the Blue. He enlists in a military group that pilots giant robots to fight back and try to reach a space station. The series is intense and often features graphic violence, emphasizing the terrifying reality of the invasion and the emotional toll it takes on those fighting to survive.

‘Gun x Sword’ (2005)

A man in a tuxedo journeys across a desert planet in a custom-built robot, seeking revenge on the killer of his wife. The show is a thrilling revenge story that draws inspiration from classic mecha designs, showcasing a wide range of robots and characters. It balances lighthearted, funny moments with intense, dramatic battles.

‘RahXephon’ (2002)

A student realizes his entire life is a lie and breaks free in a powerful, god-like robot. While similar to other shows about robots and the human mind, this series places a strong emphasis on music and love stories. The robot itself has a beautiful, natural design, and the story delves into questions of who we are and the impact of sound.

‘Overman King Gainer’ (2002–2003)

This show takes place in the future, where people live in enclosed cities. It follows a young gamer who’s wrongly accused of a crime and must go on the run using a very old machine. It’s known for its exciting opening sequence and bright, colorful look. The robots in the show have unique designs and the animation is fast-paced and full of energy. The story is a cheerful adventure focused on the quest for freedom.

‘Brain Powerd’ (1998)

As a huge fan of giant robot movies, this series really grabbed me. Basically, Earth is under attack by aliens, and our only defense is these incredible, living robots – they’re grown, not built! But it’s not just about the action; the story really dives into the bond between the pilots and these machines, how they feel connected. Plus, the director is known for exploring complicated families and caring about the environment, and you definitely see those themes here. And the robots themselves? Forget metal and gears, these things look… organic, almost like creatures. It’s a really unique visual style.

‘Granbelm’ (2019)

In this action-packed series, magical girls fight each other using giant, customizable robots in a last-one-standing battle to become the ultimate mage. It blends the charm of the magical girl genre with intense mecha combat, where each robot reflects its pilot’s magical powers and offers unique strategies. The story also delves into the pressures of competition and the potential downsides of getting everything you wish for.

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2026-02-05 20:50