Giant Robots, Big Impact: 28 Mecha Anime to Watch Now!

Mecha anime hold a special place in the hearts of fans around the world, and it’s easy to see why. From the 70s, with the pioneering Mobile Suit Gundam, to modern hits like Neon Genesis Evangelion, giant robots continue to capture the imaginations of many. And it's no small number!

According to a recent survey, almost 30% of anime fans have a special affection for the mecha genre, and the love for these epic battles continues to grow.

Check out our list of 28 mecha animes!

Patlabor (1989)

- Number of Episodes: 47 (including the TV series and its OVA adaptations)

- Synopsis: Patlabor is set in a near future in Tokyo, where a special police unit called "Special Vehicles Section 2" uses giant robots called "Labors" to maintain order in a city filled with crime and technological failures. The series focuses on the daily lives and conflicts of the team as they face the dangers posed by out-of-control Labors.

Patlabor stands out for its more realistic and subdued approach to the mecha genre, focusing less on epic battles and more on the practical and real consequences of using giant robots in law enforcement. It blends elements of everyday life with slower, more reflective action, offering a unique experience within the genre.

King of Braves GaoGaiGar (1997)

- Number of Episodes: 49

- Synopsis: King of Braves GaoGaiGar follows the story of Guy Shishioh, a warrior who pilots the giant robot GaoGaiGar to protect humanity from alien invaders. With the help of his team, Guy faces a series of alien enemies and giant monsters while fighting for justice.

This anime is known for its breathtaking battles and colossal mechas. The series blends retro mecha nostalgia with a modern narrative full of heroism, action, and funny moments, offering a complete experience for fans of the genre.

Megazone 23 (1985)

- Number of Episodes: 4 OVAs

- Synopsis: Megazone 23 is set in a cyberpunk future where the protagonist, Shogo Yahagi, discovers that the reality around him is a simulation controlled by artificial intelligence. He joins the resistance to fight against this corrupt system, while piloting a mecha to battle the oppressive regime.

Megazone 23 is unique for its blend of mecha and cyberpunk themes, addressing issues of freedom and surveillance in a dystopian plot. Its innovative animation and philosophical take on reality and social freedom made it an influential classic in the genre.

Taiyou no Kiba Dagram (1987)

- Number of Episodes: 26

- Synopsis: Taiyou no Kiba Dagram is set in a war-torn world where a group of rebels uses mechas to fight against an oppressive dictatorial government. The series focuses on political and military issues as the characters face internal conflicts and the battle against an authoritarian regime.

The anime stands out for its fusion of mecha with political drama, addressing war and resistance in a more realistic and human-focused way. It’s an engaging story about the fight against a tyrannical government, with strong emphasis on characters and their emotions.

Escaflowne (1996)

- Number of Episodes: 26

- Synopsis: Escaflowne follows the journey of Hitomi Kanzaki, a student who is transported to the world of Gaea, where she becomes involved in a war between nations that uses mechas. With a combination of fantasy, romance, and action, the story explores Gaea’s fate and Hitomi’s role in the conflict.

Escaflowne stands out for combining mecha with fantasy elements, like magic and romance, creating a visually stunning experience. The series is famous for its strong female protagonist and its mix of deep emotions with epic battles, making it unique in the genre.

Bokura no (2003)

- Number of Episodes: 11

- Synopsis: In Bokura no, a group of teenagers is forced to pilot a giant robot to face an alien threat. As the series progresses, it explores the psychological effects of war and trauma on the young pilots, addressing the emotional consequences of the battle.

Bokura no stands out for its psychological and emotional approach to war, focusing on the aftermath of using mechas and how it affects the characters. It’s not just an action series, but a deep exploration of the psychological impacts of conflict, making it darker and more introspective.

Bullbuster (2022)

- Number of Episodes: 12

- Synopsis: Bullbuster follows a group of corporate employees who pilot a giant robot to fight kaiju creatures. The series blends comedy with action, offering a light-hearted and fun look at the daily life of those operating these powerful mechas.

Bullbuster stands out for its irreverent and humorous tone, bringing a more light-hearted and fun approach to the mecha genre. The mix of comedy and action provides a unique experience, deviating from the more serious and dramatic style of other series.

Break Blade (2014)

- Number of Episodes: 12 (with additional films)

- Synopsis: Break Blade follows the story of Rygart Arrow, one of the few humans unable to use magic in a world where mechas powered by magic are common. He is forced to pilot an ancient machine and becomes an unlikely hero amid a political conflict.

The anime stands out for its combination of fantasy and mecha, presenting a complex political plot and epic battles with robots that move through magic. Rygart’s story, a character without magic in a world full of it, offers a unique perspective within the genre.

Brave Bang Bravern! (2021)

- Number of Episodes: 12

- Synopsis: Brave Bang Bravern! follows a team that pilots giant mechas to defend Earth from interplanetary invaders. The series is filled with exciting battles and a fast-paced narrative that mixes action with adventure.

Brave Bang Bravern! brings a modern and fast-paced style, offering a fresh take on the genre with its quick battles and well-designed mechas. The series stands out for its energy and fun, bringing a vibrant mecha experience.

Vandread (2000)

- Number of Episodes: 13 (first season)

- Synopsis: Vandread follows the story of men and women from two opposing planets who are forced to work together after being trapped on a ship. While battling external threats, they also face internal issues related to gender relations and the dynamics of their societies.

Vandread combines comedy, action, and romance, but also tackles important themes about gender relations and social conflicts. The mecha battles are exciting, but what really distinguishes the series is its exploration of gender dynamics and tensions between characters.

Gundam Witch from Mercury (2022)

- Number of Episodes: 12 (ongoing)

- Synopsis: Set in the Gundam universe, Gundam Witch from Mercury follows Suletta Mercury, a young girl who enters a prestigious school to become a Gundam pilot. The series explores the complex social and political dynamics as Suletta navigates personal challenges and internal conflicts.

The series stands out for bringing a female protagonist to the Gundam universe, while also exploring themes like personal identity, social struggles, and the cost of ambition. It’s one of the freshest and most emotional approaches in the Gundam franchise, offering new perspectives to the traditional mecha series.

Mobile Suit Gundam (1979)

- Number of Episodes: 43

- Synopsis: Mobile Suit Gundam follows the story of Amuro Ray, a young man who finds himself at the center of an interplanetary war after being recruited to pilot the Gundam, one of Earth’s most powerful weapons. As the war progresses, he faces moral dilemmas and the loss of loved ones.

Considered the pioneer of mecha anime, Mobile Suit Gundam was the first to introduce the concept of "real robots" — mechas that are not indestructible but have limitations and flaws. The anime also stood out for its political and dramatic focus, revolutionizing the genre and serving as the foundation for many other mecha productions.

Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)

- Number of Episodes: 26

- Synopsis: Neon Genesis Evangelion follows Shinji Ikari, a teenager who is recruited to pilot a giant robot, the Eva, to combat mysterious creatures known as "Angels." The series blends action with deep psychological themes, exploring the characters' traumas and questioning the nature of humanity.

Evangelion deconstructs the mecha genre by addressing philosophical, religious, and psychological issues, while still delivering epic battles between the Evas and the Angels. It’s a work that goes beyond mere entertainment, challenging the audience with complex characters and intriguing narratives.

Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion (2006)

- Number of Episodes: 25

- Synopsis: Code Geass follows Lelouch vi Britannia, an exiled prince who gains the power of "Geass," allowing him to command anyone’s will. Using this power, he leads a revolution against the Britannian Empire, piloting a mecha to face the oppressive forces.

Code Geass is a perfect example of political drama, mecha battles, and high-stakes strategy. The series is famous for its unexpected plot twists and Lelouch’s complex morality, constantly challenging the notions of right and wrong.

Tengen Toppa Gurren-Lagann (2007)

- Number of Episodes: 27

- Synopsis: Tengen Toppa Gurren-Lagann follows Simon and Kamina, two young men who escape from an underground village and embark on an epic journey to fight against oppressive forces dominating the surface of the planet. The series mixes intense action with emotional moments and themes of overcoming adversity.

Gurren-Lagann is known for its boundless energy, grandiose battles, and charismatic characters. The series stands out for its exaggerated action elements, with mechas that grow in size and power, offering an irreverent and adrenaline-filled mecha experience.

Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans (2015)

- Number of Episodes: 50

- Synopsis: Iron-Blooded Orphans takes place in a post-war future, where a group of war orphans pilots mechas to fight for their survival and freedom. The series focuses on issues of loyalty, revenge, and the impact of being forced to fight from a young age.

The series is notable for its focus on young soldiers who are not traditional heroes. It tackles issues of social class, politics, and the costs of war in a raw and emotional way, highlighting the moral dilemmas faced by characters forced to live under extreme circumstances.

Mobile Suit Gundam 00 (2007)

- Number of Episodes: 50

- Synopsis: Mobile Suit Gundam 00 follows Celestial Being, an organization dedicated to ending global conflicts using the power of Gundams. The series explores the political and military dilemmas that arise when direct intervention can alter the global balance.

Gundam 00 stands out for its exploration of international conflicts and the consequences of using force to resolve disputes. The series also has a modern approach, with technologically advanced mechas and a plot full of twists and complex characters.

Aldnoah.Zero (2014)

- Number of Episodes: 24

- Synopsis: Aldnoah.Zero takes place in an alternate universe where humans have colonized Mars, and after a conflict, Earth finds itself at war with the Martian empire. The story follows a group of young pilots who become involved in a fight for survival while facing Mars’ military power.

The series stands out for its strategic and intelligent approach to mecha battles, focusing on military tactics and the technological differences between Earth and Mars. The plot also delves into political complexity and the effects of social classes in times of war.

Darling in the FranXX (2018)

- Number of Episodes: 24

- Synopsis: Darling in the FranXX is set in a dystopian future where humanity is forced to fight against alien creatures using giant robots known as Franxx. The series follows Zero Two and Hiro, two young Franxx pilots, as they explore the meaning of intimacy, sacrifice, and survival.

Darling in the FranXX mixes mecha action with deep emotional themes, exploring the complexities of intimacy and human relationships in an apocalyptic setting. The series is also notable for its complex characters and the way it addresses psychological and existential issues.

Eureka Seven (2005)

- Number of Episodes: 50

- Synopsis: Eureka Seven follows Renton Thurston, a young boy who joins a group of rebels traveling in mechas to fight against a mysterious force known as Scub Coral. Throughout the series, Renton learns about love, loss, and the harsh realities of war.

Eureka Seven is known for its combination of mecha action with a deeply emotional narrative. The series addresses themes such as personal growth, love, and the consequences of war in a sensitive manner, mixing romance with intense, visually stunning action moments.

Votoms (1983)

- Number of Episodes: 52

- Synopsis: Votoms follows Chirico Cuvie, a war veteran who finds himself entangled in a series of political conspiracies while trying to escape his past. With a darker tone, the series explores the complexities of war and psychological trauma.

Votoms is one of the most realistic mecha series, depicting the psychological weight of being a soldier. The series focuses more on war, post-conflict consequences, and the journey of the anti-hero, making it very special within the genre.

Full Metal Panic! (2002)

- Number of Episodes: 24 (with several seasons and OVAs)

- Synopsis: Full Metal Panic! blends school comedy with military action, following Sousuke Sagara, a soldier assigned to protect a high school girl while dealing with combat missions and school life.

The series is unique for combining a traditional school setting with intense military battles, balancing moments of comedy with serious action scenes. The dynamic between the experienced soldier and the school environment adds a special charm to it.

Mobile Fighter G Gundam (1994)

- Number of Episodes: 49

- Synopsis: In Mobile Fighter G Gundam, the countries of the world compete in battle tournaments with mechas, each representing a unique fighting style. The protagonist, Domon Kasshu, and his Gundam travel the world to compete in the tournament and fight evil forces.

Unlike other Gundams, G Gundam features a tournament-style battle, with mechas representing countries in an exaggerated and fun way. It’s a mix of fast-paced action and energetic battles with charismatic characters and an emotionally charged storyline.

Gunbuster (1988)

- Number of Episodes: 6

- Synopsis: Gunbuster follows Noriko Takaya, a young girl who joins a space combat school to fight against an alien threat. The series focuses on her personal growth while dealing with themes such as sacrifice and the impact of time.

Created by director Hideaki Anno (Evangelion), Gunbuster is an essential work in the mecha genre, combining high-quality science fiction with character development. The series introduces concepts like time dilation and focuses on the emotional growth of the protagonist.

Diebuster (2004)

- Number of Episodes: 6

- Synopsis: Diebuster, the sequel to Gunbuster, follows young Nono, who seeks to become a "Gunbuster" to fight against alien creatures. The series maintains the theme of self-discovery and heroes facing insurmountable challenges.

Diebuster offers a modern, visually stunning version of the classic Gunbuster. The HD animation and its focus on legacy and self-discovery make it a sequel that blends nostalgia with innovation.

Heavy Object (2015)

- Number of Episodes: 24

- Synopsis: In Heavy Object, two soldiers are assigned to protect a "heavy object," a massive weapon of war that can change the course of battle. The series explores the impact of military technology on the battlefield, focusing on strategy and how military power can be used.

Heavy Object stands out for its realistic approach to war, highlighting the psychological and strategic impact of using enormous weapons on the battlefield. The series is interesting for its mix of action with reflections on the future of war and technology.

Knight and Magic (2017)

- Number of Episodes: 13

- Synopsis: Knight and Magic mixes fantasy with mechas, following Ernesti Echevarria, a game programmer who reincarnates in a world of magic and technology, where knights use mechas. He decides to become a great knight and improve the magical mechas.

Knight and Magic combines magic with traditional mecha battles in a unique way. The story stands out for its exciting action scenes and the protagonist's ability to develop new technologies and mechas, blending fantasy with science fiction.

Sidonia no Kishi (2014)

- Number of Episodes: 12 (with a second season)

- Synopsis: In a post-apocalyptic future, humanity fights for survival aboard a ship called Sidonia, where giant mechas are used to combat an alien threat. The series follows Nagate Tanikaze, who finds himself at the center of the fight for survival.

Sidonia no Kishi blends elements of science fiction with mecha action, offering a unique visual aesthetic and a plot that explores themes of survival and identity. Its mechas are innovatively designed, with an atmosphere that mixes horror and action.

Mecha animes have proven they’re here to stay, dominating the lists and gaining a loyal, passionate fan base. If you love a good robot battle with deep characters and emotional plots, you know the genre has a lot to offer.

And the best part: every year, new titles emerge with fresh ideas and stunning visuals. So, which mecha anime will you watch next?

See you in the next article!