Mecha anime has long captivated fans with its iconic giant robots, gripping battles, and often thought provoking themes. From space wars to dystopian futures, this genre has something for everyone. Whether you're a die hard fan or just diving into the world of mecha, these 7 series are essential viewing. Let's take a closer look at the top 7 mecha anime that every anime fan should check out!
1. Gundam
The Gundam franchise is the cornerstone of the mecha genre. Beginning with the original Mobile Suit Gundam in 1979, this legendary series changed the landscape of anime and introduced complex narratives that blended warfare, politics, and giant robots. The Gundam series is vast, with numerous spin offs, movies, and sequels, but the core of the franchise revolves around the conflict between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon.
Mobile Suit Gundam is an iconic starting point, but series like Gundam Wing , Gundam 00 , and Gundam Unicorn offer different takes on the theme of war and the personal struggles of those caught in it. The battle scenes are legendary, but it’s the complex characters and moral dilemmas that truly set Gundam apart.
2. Armored Trooper Votoms
If you're looking for a more grounded, gritty take on the mecha genre, Armored Trooper Votoms is a must watch. Unlike other mecha series that focus on larger than life robots, Votoms offers a more realistic approach, with its humanoid mechs, known as Armored Troopers, designed for battle in confined environments. The series follows Chirico Cuvie, a skilled soldier and pilot, as he navigates a brutal, war torn universe, filled with intrigue and betrayal.
What makes Votoms stand out is its raw, mature take on warfare and the psychological toll it takes on its characters. It’s a deeply introspective series that will appeal to fans who want something more than just giant robot battles.
3. Gurren Lagann
If you're craving pure, unadulterated mecha action with heart, Gurren Lagann is a must watch. Directed by Hiroyuki Imaishi and produced by Studio Gainax, this series is known for its outrageous mecha designs, high octane battles, and themes of perseverance, defiance, and personal growth.
The story follows Simon and Kamina, two young men who escape their underground village to battle tyrannical forces on the surface using a giant robot. As the series escalates, the scale of the battles becomes increasingly epic, and the themes of fighting against fate and achieving greatness are woven into every episode. Gurren Lagann is one of the most energetic, uplifting mecha series you'll ever experience.
4. Neon Genesis Evangelion
Neon Genesis Evangelion is often hailed as one of the most groundbreaking anime series of all time. While it has the mecha battles fans expect, its true impact lies in its deep psychological, philosophical, and existential exploration of its characters.
The story follows Shinji Ikari, a troubled teenager who is thrust into the role of piloting a giant bio mechanical robot called an Evangelion to defend Earth from mysterious, destructive beings known as Angels. Evangelion is far more than just a mecha series—it delves into trauma, the nature of human existence, and the meaning of life itself. Its revolutionary storytelling and unforgettable characters make it a must see for any anime fan.
5. SSSS.Gridman
SSSS.Gridman is a love letter to both mecha and tokusatsu (live action special effects) fans. This series is a modern reimagining of the 1993 show Gridman the Hyper Agent , and it blends nostalgic references with contemporary animation and storytelling. The series follows Yūta Hibiki, a high school student who is mysteriously connected to the digital warrior Gridman, who must fight to protect both the real world and the virtual one from monstrous threats.
SSSS.Gridman is visually stunning, with its combination of traditional mecha action and modern animation techniques. The show also explores the nature of reality, memory, and digital existence, adding a unique twist to the mecha genre. It’s a must watch for fans of both mecha and classic kaiju battles.
6. Knight's Magic
If you love the idea of mecha combined with fantasy, then Knight's Magic is the anime for you. Set in a world where magic and mechs coexist, the series follows Tsubasa Kurata, an otaku who is reincarnated into a fantasy world filled with magical knights. With his vast knowledge of mecha technology, Tsubasa strives to build and pilot his own powerful mecha, known as Silhouette Knights, to protect the kingdom.
The series offers a refreshing blend of magical fantasy and mecha action, all while focusing on Tsubasa’s journey as he uses his skills and intellect to reshape the future of his new world. It's a fun, light hearted take on mecha that still packs plenty of exciting battles.
7. Vandread
Vandread is an underrated gem that blends mecha, sci fi, and comedy into an action packed, character driven story. The series is set in a universe where men and women are separated into two different planets. The plot kicks off when a group of male soldiers is captured by female pirates, and they are forced to work together to pilot a powerful mecha called the Vandread. The show explores themes of cooperation, gender relations, and identity.
While it offers plenty of light hearted moments, Vandread also delves into deeper themes and features solid mecha action. With its unique premise and engaging character development, it’s a fun, entertaining series for fans of both mecha and space adventure.