Must-Watch Mecha Anime: 10 Unmissable Titles

Mecha anime, with its colossal robots and intricate fictional machines, has enthralled audiences since its rise to fame in the 1970s. Over the years, beloved series like Mobile Suit Gundam and Neon Genesis Evangelion have cemented their status as classics adored by anime enthusiasts globally.

The fusion of science fiction and action revolving around manned mechanical robots has proven to be a successful formula in the world of animation. Whether you're a newcomer to the mecha genre or searching for fresh series to indulge in, continue reading for our top 10 picks of the must-watch mecha anime.

We explore a variety of classic, critically acclaimed, and cult favorite mecha anime titles, from the original franchises to the latest innovations. Our list covers different decades and subgenres, all featuring unforgettable stories and stunning mecha animation and battle sequences. Please note that this article represents the author's personal opinions and is not presented in any specific ranking.

The ultimate mecha anime list: 10 series every fan should experience

1) Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans

Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans (Image via Sunrise)

Recognized as a staple in mecha anime, the Gundam franchise, particularly Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans, is praised for its raw storyline and unforgettable characters. The series is set in a future where Mars has been colonized and centers around a team of young soldiers fighting for their freedom.

The series showcases detailed mecha designs and high-energy action scenes as the young pilot Mikazuki Augus battles against corporate and government forces in his Gundam Barbatos mobile suit. Iron-Blooded Orphans distinguishes itself with morally complex heroes and thought-provoking themes that delve into the realities of war.

The animation and art are visually striking, effectively conveying the intensity of mechanized battles on Mars. This darker interpretation of Gundam is widely regarded as one of the top installments in the extensive franchise.

2) Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (Image via Sunrise)

In a parallel universe under the rule of the Holy Britannian Empire, exiled prince Lelouch Lamperouge is granted the ability to control others and uses it to take on the alias Zero. Leading a rebellion against the empire responsible for his mother's death, Lelouch, with the help of his tactical brilliance and devoted followers, engages in strategic warfare using Knightmare Frames, colossal mecha armed with state-of-the-art weaponry. As Zero and Lelouch strive to overthrow Britannia for the sake of his sister Nunnally, they become entangled in complex political plots and a secretive conflict over an immortal power.

With its kinetic battles, high-stakes drama, complex characters, and intrigue-filled plot, Code Geass remains one of the most popular and highly regarded mecha anime.

3) Neon Genesis Evangelion

Neon Genesis Evangelion (Image via Gainax)

The renowned series, directed by Hideaki Anno, follows the story of the troubled teenager Shinji Ikari, who is among the few capable of piloting the colossal cyborg Evangelion units to battle against the invading Angels. Set in a post-apocalyptic Tokyo, Neon Genesis Evangelion transformed the mecha anime genre with its groundbreaking animation techniques and deep exploration of psychological themes.

4) Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann

NERV, a shadowy organization led by the mysterious Gendo Ikari, is working to prevent cataclysms, while damaged heroes Shinji, Rei, and Asuka struggle with trauma and inner demons. This genre-defining mecha anime elevated giant robot tropes with its avant-garde visual style and psychodrama examining depression, human connection, and identity. Evangelion's mecha battles are visceral and visually stunning spectacles.

Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann (Image via Gainax)

This larger-than-life mecha spectacle hails from the renowned animation studio Gainax, known for creating Evangelion. Set in a post-apocalyptic world dominated by beastmen, the timid teenager Simon and the daring digger Kamina yearn to reach the planet's surface. Their discovery of a small mecha with a drill for a face ignites a robotic uprising against beastman tyranny.

5) Full Metal Panic!

As Simon evolves into a formidable leader, he leads his unconventional army in piloting larger and more menacing mechs, brought to life through sheer determination and equipped with rows of spinning drills. The culmination of their efforts leads to epic battles on a galaxy-sized scale, solidifying Gurren Lagann's revolutionary spirit and escalating madness as a groundbreaking success that revived interest in classic mecha anime.

Chronicled in the image above, Full Metal Panic! is a captivating series brought to life by Kyoto Animation.

Adolescent enigma Sousuke Sagara is a crucial member of an esteemed mercenary unit assigned to covert operations within a Japanese high school. His primary mission is to safeguard the seemingly ordinary Kaname Chidori, who is being pursued by various factions due to the classified information embedded within her mind. The ensuing narrative unfolds as a quirky blend of high school romantic comedy and intense mecha action.

6) Eureka Seven

In addition to facing the challenges of adolescence, Sousuke has to defend himself against hijackers, assassins, and kidnappers while frequently using his AS bipedal battle suit. The endearing comedic chemistry between the mismatched main characters anchors Full Metal Panic!, providing a combination of thrilling mechanized combat and heartwarming humor.

Eureka Seven (Image via Bones)

Filled with an unforgettable soundtrack, this mecha romance follows the journey of Renton Thurston, a young boy with aspirations of joining the legendary air surfing squad known as Gekkostate. Under the leadership of the charismatic Holland Novak, Renton finds himself entangled in Gekkostate's covert battle against the government forces after a fateful encounter with the enigmatic Eureka and her Nirvash TypeZERO mecha.

With a richly developed world and a thoughtful examination of youth counterculture and environmentalism, Eureka Seven encompasses elements of teen drama, mecha battles, and a love story. The slow-burn romance between Renton and Eureka unfolds amidst breathtaking aerial robot dogfights depicted through vibrant animation and striking art direction.

7) The Vision of Escaflowne

The Vision of Escaflowne (Image via Sunrise)

The Vision of Escaflowne is a thrilling fantasy adventure infused with steampunk mecha elements. The story revolves around Hitomi Kanzaki, a regular high school student with psychic abilities who finds herself transported to the enchanting world of Gaea. It is here that she encounters Van Fanel, the charismatic young ruler of Fanelia, who possesses the ability to summon Escaflowne—a magnificent dragon-like combat armor fueled by Hitomi’s tarot reading and his own unwavering determination.

8) Armored Trooper Votoms

As Van and Hitomi work together to change the course of a continental war, their destinies become intertwined amidst mecha battles, political scheming, and the blossoming of romance. With its vibrant art style, enchanting musical score, and rich world mythology centered around dragon hearts and coming-of-age rituals, this unexpected ‘90s treasure is a joy to experience.

Armored Trooper Votoms (Image via Sunrise)

This iconic mecha anime from 1983 revolutionized the military sci-fi subgenre by introducing a morally ambiguous protagonist. The narrative centers around Chirico Cuvie, a battle-hardened mercenary and Armored Trooper pilot, who navigates through a galaxy while being relentlessly pursued for the secrets hidden within his vat-grown brain.

9) Mobile Fighter G Gundam

Layered with intrigue, Votoms is renowned for its gritty portrayal of the future and its realistic mecha designs that break away from traditional super robot themes. Chirico's intense odyssey through desolate cityscapes and deserted asteroid strongholds has had a significant impact on the genre's evolution towards more mature war narratives.

Mobile Fighter G Gundam (Image via Sunrise)

Mobile Fighter G Gundam is the epitome of hot-blooded, over-the-top action in the Gundam series. This shonen-style tournament series revolves around themes of passion, honor, and spectacular finishing moves. Every four years, space colonies representing nations on Earth send a Gundam Fighter to battle on Earth, vying for political dominance and glory. The story follows Japan's fighter, Domon Kasshu, as he travels the world, engaging in intense duels with rival martial artist pilots, all while seeking to uncover the truth about his exiled brother.

From the Statue of Liberty firing beam cannons to windmill Gundam, MFGG celebrates cultural stereotypes transformed into outrageous mecha designs. Despite being lighter in tone compared to other Gundam mecha anime titles, its stylized art and combat make a huge impression through imaginative worldbuilding and "shine, Gundam fight!" passion.

10) Patlabor

Patlabor, the anime series created by Sunrise, is set in an alternate late 1990s. It revolves around the Tokyo Special Vehicle Unit 2, which utilizes advanced Patlabor mechs to enforce peace and order in response to the rampant malfunctioning of Labors, industrial and construction robots, in the region.

Despite the ongoing danger posed by rogue Labors causing damage to cities or going out of control, the show has a slice-of-life feel as it chronicles the lives of officers Noa Izumi, Asuma Shinohara, and their team, who form a close-knit workplace family. Although primarily episodic, OVA sequels and films brought in more intricate mysteries and antagonists for the SV2 to confront.

With its humorous and relatable characters, Patlabor's realistic take on sci-fi action set the stage for shows like Ghost in the Shell: Stand Alone Complex.

Conclusion

The selection of mecha anime, from the pioneering classics like Gundam and Evangelion to the more recent groundbreaking series like Gurren Lagann, truly demonstrates the diverse and captivating stories that can be told within this genre. Whether you are drawn to coming-of-age narratives, mind-bending science fiction, romantic adventures, or intense battles between colossal robots, there is a mecha anime series that is sure to captivate fans of both science fiction and animation. So, choose a mecha anime series that resonates with you and prepare for an unforgettable, action-packed experience.

Editor's P/S

As a Gen Z fan of mecha anime, I'm thrilled to see the recognition given to this genre. Mecha anime has always held a special place in my heart, and it's exciting to see it continue to captivate audiences worldwide. The combination of giant robots, intricate storylines, and thought-provoking themes makes mecha anime a truly unique and immersive experience.

From the classic Mobile Suit Gundam to the groundbreaking Neon Genesis Evangelion, each series brings its own distinct flavor to the genre. I particularly appreciate the way mecha anime explores complex themes such as war, identity, and the nature of humanity. These series challenge viewers to think critically about the world around them and the role of technology in society.

Overall, I believe mecha anime is a must-watch for any fan of animation and science fiction. With its captivating stories, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking themes, mecha anime offers an unforgettable experience that will stay with you long after the credits roll.