Top 22 Best Mecha Anime Of All Time – Hey guys!. In this post, I’ll be discussing a list of Top 22 Best Mecha Anime Of All Time. Mecha anime is a sub-genre of science fiction anime that centers around giant robots or mechs, which are typically piloted by human characters.
Mecha anime often features epic battles between these giant machines, as well as exploration of themes such as war, politics, and the relationship between humans and technology. The origins of mecha anime can be traced back to the 1950s, with the release of the manga “Tetsujin 28-go”, which featured a remote-controlled robot that could be piloted by a young boy.
Since then, the mecha genre has evolved and expanded, with various series featuring different types of mechs, from human-piloted robots to sentient machines and more. Some of the most popular mecha anime series include “Gundam,” which has been running since the 1970s and has spawned numerous spin-offs and adaptations. Let us jump right into it.
22. Knights of Sidonia
Knights of Sidonia is a science-fiction anime series set in the year 3394. The story follows the last remnants of humanity as they travel through space on a massive ship called Sidonia, which serves as their home and protector against the monstrous Gauna, a mysterious alien race bent on destroying humanity.
The main character is Nagate Tanikaze, a young man who was raised in the underground levels of Sidonia and trained to become a skilled pilot of the Guardian, the ship’s main weapon against the Gauna. Nagate’s natural talent as a pilot quickly earns him the respect of his fellow pilots, but also puts him at odds with some of the more established pilots who are resentful of his sudden rise to fame.
As Nagate becomes more involved in the fight against the Gauna, he uncovers a number of mysteries about his own past and the true nature of the Gauna, which threaten to shake the very foundations of Sidonia. With the help of his friends and allies, Nagate must use his skills as a pilot and his own innate courage to protect humanity and uncover the truth behind the Gauna’s attacks.
21. Knight’s & Magic
Knight’s & Magic is an anime series that follows the story of a mecha otaku named Tsubasa Kurata, who dies in a car accident and is reincarnated into a fantasy world filled with magic and knights. In this new world, Tsubasa is fascinated by the presence of giant robots known as Silhouette Knights, and uses his knowledge of mecha engineering to create his own version of the machines.
With his incredible intellect and skills, he quickly gains the attention of the royal family and becomes involved in the kingdom’s war efforts against their enemies. As Tsubasa continues to create and improve his Silhouette Knight, he faces challenges from both his own limits and the limitations of the world he is in.
However, with the help of his friends, he perseveres and becomes a powerful force on the battlefield, using his unique knowledge and passion for mecha to protect his new home. Throughout the series, Tsubasa must balance his love for technology with his newfound responsibilities and loyalty to his friends, while also uncovering the mysteries of his new world and the history of the Silhouette Knights.
20. Promare
Promare is an anime film that takes place in a world where humans suddenly start spontaneously combusting, turning into fiery infernos known as Burnish. In response, a special firefighting squad called Burning Rescue is formed to fight against the Burnish and save those affected by them.
The story follows the young and hot-blooded firefighter named Galo Thymos, who becomes involved in a conflict between Burning Rescue and the Burnish, led by the enigmatic and powerful Lio Fotia. As Galo and his team fight against the Burnish, they begin to uncover a plot that goes beyond their initial understanding of the situation.
With high-energy action, colorful animation, and a pumping soundtrack, Promare is a thrilling ride that explores themes of prejudice, identity, and the balance between freedom and responsibility. As Galo and Lio face off in a fiery battle, the fate of humanity and the Burnish is put into question, leaving the audience on the edge of their seats until the explosive conclusion.
19. SSSS.Gridman
SSSS.Gridman is an anime series that follows the story of Yuta Hibiki, a high school student who wakes up one day with amnesia and a strange computer operating system on his wrist. With the help of his new friends, the hyperactive and eccentric Rikka Takarada and the reserved and intelligent Sho Utsumi, Yuta begins to piece together his past and his connection to a giant mecha named Gridman.
As Yuta and his friends delve deeper into the mystery surrounding Gridman and the kaiju that threaten their city, they discover a world beyond their own reality, one where the fate of humanity hangs in the balance. With the help of Gridman and his ability to merge with the city’s various objects and structures, Yuta and his friends must fight against the kaiju and uncover the truth behind their existence.
With a mix of action, drama, and science fiction, SSSS.Gridman explores themes of identity, memory, and the power of belief. As the story unfolds and the stakes get higher, Yuta and his friends must come to terms with their own fears and doubts in order to save their world from destruction.
18. Gargantia on the Verdurous Planet
Gargantia on the Verdurous Planet is an anime series that takes place in the distant future where humanity has left Earth to live in space colonies. Ledo, a young pilot of a powerful mecha, is sent on a mission to destroy an enemy race known as the Hideauze. However, during a battle, Ledo and his mecha are pulled into a wormhole and end up crash-landing on a water-covered planet called Earth.
On Earth, Ledo meets a group of people who live on massive fleets of ships that roam the seas, known as the Gargantia. Ledo struggles to adjust to his new surroundings and the peaceful way of life of the Gargantia people. Meanwhile, he tries to find a way back to space to complete his mission and return to his comrades.
As Ledo spends more time with the Gargantia and begins to understand their way of life, he begins to question his own beliefs and the morality of his mission. He also discovers secrets about the Hideauze and his own past that will change the course of his life forever.
Gargantia on the Verdurous Planet is a coming-of-age story that explores themes of identity, culture, and the nature of war. As Ledo tries to find his place in this new world, he must confront his own prejudices and biases while learning to embrace the diversity and complexity of the people around him.
17. Hundred
Hundred is an anime series that takes place in a world where humanity is under constant threat from mysterious creatures known as the Savages. To fight against these creatures, the only weapon capable of defeating them is a specialized mechanical suit called a Hundred, which gives the user extraordinary strength and abilities.
The story follows Hayato Kisaragi, a young man who dreams of becoming a Slayer, a warrior capable of using a Hundred to fight against the Savages. Hayato enrolls in Little Garden, a training academy for Slayers, where he meets and befriends a group of talented young women who also strive to become Slayers.
As Hayato and his friends train and fight together, they uncover a conspiracy that threatens not only Little Garden but the entire world. Hayato and his friends must use their skills and determination to defend against the Savages and save humanity from destruction.
With a mix of action, romance, and comedy, Hundred explores themes of teamwork, loyalty, and self-discovery. As Hayato and his friends navigate the challenges of being a Slayer and the complexities of their relationships with each other, they learn the importance of trusting in their own abilities and working together to overcome any obstacle.
16. Undefeated Bahamut Chronicle
Undefeated Bahamut Chronicle is an anime series that takes place in a world where powerful mechanical dragons known as Drag-Rides are used as weapons of war. The story follows Lux Arcadia, a former prince of the Arcadia Empire who has lost everything and now lives as a Drag-Knight, using his skills to make a living.
One day, Lux accidentally enters the female-only academy of the Empire and ends up confronting a princess named Lisesharte Atismata. In order to avoid being punished, Lux is forced to become Lisesharte’s servant and attend the academy as a student.
As Lux attends the academy and becomes involved in the conflicts and rivalries between the students, he begins to uncover secrets about the Empire and the true nature of the Drag-Rides. Along with Lisesharte and his other friends, Lux fights against powerful enemies and challenges the established order of the Empire.
With a mix of action, romance, and comedy, Undefeated Bahamut Chronicle explores themes of social hierarchy, political intrigue, and the importance of trust and friendship. As Lux and his friends fight against the Empire’s corrupt system, they learn the importance of standing up for what they believe in and protecting those they care about.
15. Eureka Seven
Eureka Seven is an anime series that takes place in a world where humanity lives on massive flying cities known as the Adroc. The story follows a young boy named Renton Thurston, who dreams of one day joining the crew of a special type of mecha known as the LFO and surfing the Trapar waves that flow throughout the world.
One day, Renton meets a girl named Eureka, who pilots a unique and mysterious LFO called the Nirvash TypeZERO. Renton becomes involved with Eureka and her team, Gekkostate, a group of rebels who fight against the government and military of the Adroc.
As Renton becomes more involved with Gekkostate and their mission, he learns about the past and secrets of Eureka and the Nirvash TypeZERO. Meanwhile, the Adroc faces a dangerous threat from a mysterious entity known as the Coralians, who seek to merge with the planet and change the course of human history.
With a mix of action, romance, and drama, Eureka Seven explores themes of friendship, love, and self-discovery. As Renton and Eureka confront their pasts and fight against powerful enemies, they discover the importance of living in the present and creating their own destiny.
14. Re:Creators
Re:Creators is an anime series that blurs the line between reality and fiction. The story follows high school student Sota Mizushino, who is an avid fan of anime and manga. One day, he finds himself transported into the world of one of his favorite anime series, only to witness a battle between two powerful characters.
Sota soon realizes that the characters from his favorite anime series and other fictional works have been brought to life in the real world by a mysterious woman named Altair. These characters, known as “Creators,” are confused and disoriented in this new world and seek to understand their existence and the reason behind their creation.
As the Creators and their fictional worlds collide with the real world, Sota becomes involved in their struggles and tries to help them find a way back to their own worlds. Along the way, they must confront powerful enemies and the consequences of their own actions.
With a mix of action, drama, and meta-fiction, Re:Creators explores themes of creativity, power, and the relationship between fiction and reality. As the Creators and their worlds come together in unexpected ways, they question the nature of their existence and the impact they have on the real world.
13. Full Metal Panic!
Full Metal Panic! is an anime series that blends elements of mecha, action, and comedy. The story follows Sousuke Sagara, a young soldier from a secretive military organization known as Mithril, who is tasked with protecting a high school student named Kaname Chidori.
Kaname possesses a special ability that makes her a target for various organizations, and Sousuke is assigned to infiltrate her school and keep her safe. However, Sousuke’s military training and tactics often clash with the normality of high school life, leading to comedic situations and misunderstandings.
As Sousuke and Kaname’s relationship develops, they become involved in a series of dangerous and often deadly missions, facing off against various enemies and organizations who seek to use Kaname’s abilities for their own gain. With a mix of action, romance, and comedy, Full Metal Panic! explores themes of war, identity, and the meaning of family.
As Sousuke and Kaname navigate the dangers of their missions and their own personal struggles, they learn to rely on each other and the bonds they have forged, creating a unique and unforgettable partnership.
12. Aldnoah.Zero
Aldnoah.Zero is an anime series that takes place in an alternate reality where humans have colonized Mars and established a powerful empire known as the Vers Empire. The story follows a high school student named Inaho Kaizuka and his friends, who become embroiled in a war between Earth and the Vers Empire.
After a failed attempt at a peace treaty, the Vers Empire launches an attack on Earth, using powerful mechs known as Kataphrakts. Inaho and his friends, along with a group of trained soldiers and a defected Vers princess, join forces to fight against the invading forces and defend Earth.
As the war between Earth and Vers escalates, Inaho and his comrades uncover secrets and conspiracies within both sides, leading to unexpected alliances and betrayals. With a mix of action, drama, and political intrigue, “Aldnoah.Zero” explores themes of war, power, and the human cost of conflict.
As Inaho and his friends fight for their lives and the fate of their world, they must confront the harsh realities of war and the sacrifices necessary to achieve peace. The series explores the consequences of unchecked power and the importance of empathy and understanding in times of conflict.
11. Ghost in the Shell
Ghost in the Shell is a science fiction anime series set in the future, where humanity has advanced technologically to the point where cybernetic implants and artificial intelligence are commonplace. The series follows the members of Section 9, a covert government agency tasked with investigating cyber crimes and terrorism.
The main protagonist is Major Motoko Kusanagi, a cyborg who leads the team and often finds herself questioning her own identity and humanity. Along with her team, which includes the skilled hacker Togusa, the combat specialist Batou, and the loyal android Ishikawa, Major Kusanagi confronts a wide range of threats, from rogue AIs to terrorist organizations.
As the team investigates various cases, they uncover a conspiracy involving a mysterious figure known as “The Puppet Master,” who seeks to merge with humanity’s collective consciousness. Along the way, Major Kusanagi confronts her own identity and questions what it means to be human in a world where technology blurs the line between man and machine.
With a mix of action, philosophy, and cyberpunk themes, Ghost in the Shell explores the intersection of humanity and technology, and the ethical implications of advanced technology. The series delves into questions of free will, identity, and the nature of consciousness, while also delivering thrilling action sequences and intricate plot twists.
10. Eighty Six
Eighty-Six is a science fiction anime series set in a future world where the Republic of San Magnolia is engaged in a long-standing war against the neighboring Empire. In this society, a group of people known as the “Eighty-Six” are forced to fight on the front lines as soldiers, despite being treated as subhuman due to their ethnicity.
The series follows the story of Shin, an 86 who serves as a handler for a group of autonomous drones known as “Juggernauts.” Shin and his fellow 86 soldiers are discriminated against by the rest of society, with their contributions to the war effort often overlooked or ignored.
As Shin and his comrades fight on the front lines, they begin to uncover the truth behind the war and the political machinations that have led to their situation. Along the way, Shin meets Lena, a young commander who is tasked with leading the 86 and begins to question the ethics of their treatment.
With a mix of action, drama, and social commentary, Eighty-Six explores themes of discrimination, war, and the consequences of prejudice. The series delves into questions of identity and belonging, as Shin and his fellow 86 soldiers confront the reality of their situation and struggle to find their place in a society that views them as less than human.
9. Infinite Stratos
Infinite Stratos is a science fiction harem anime series set in a world where powerful exosuits known as Infinite Stratos, or IS for short, have been developed and can only be piloted by women. The series follows the story of Ichika Orimura, the only male in the world who can pilot an IS.
Ichika is sent to an all-girls school, the Infinite Stratos Academy, to learn how to control his unique abilities. He quickly becomes the center of attention among the female students, who are all potential IS pilots themselves. As he navigates the challenges of being the only male in the school, Ichika also finds himself caught up in various conflicts and battles against other IS pilots.
With a mix of action, comedy, and romance, Infinite Stratos explores themes of gender roles and expectations, as well as the challenges of navigating relationships in a high-stakes environment. The series also features a variety of unique and powerful IS suits, each with its own strengths and weaknesses, adding an element of strategy and tactics to the battles.
8. FLCL
FLCL is a surreal coming-of-age anime series that follows the story of a 12-year-old boy named Naota Nandaba, who lives in a small, mundane town. His life is turned upside down when a strange girl on a motorbike crashes into him, hitting him with her bass guitar.
From this point on, Naota finds himself in a series of bizarre and surreal situations involving giant robots, alien beings, and mysterious forces that threaten to destroy the world. Along the way, he must navigate his changing relationships with the people around him, including his older brother’s girlfriend, the strange girl who hit him, and his own family.
With a mix of humor, action, and surrealism, FLCL explores themes of adolescence, self-discovery, and the confusing nature of growing up. The series is known for its distinctive animation style, fast-paced storytelling, and its use of music, which is heavily integrated into the plot and contributes to the series’ overall sense of energy and chaos.
7. Date A Live
Date A Live is a science fiction harem anime series that takes place in a world where “spacequakes,” massive seismic events of unknown origin, occur frequently and pose a significant threat to humanity. The series follows the story of Shido Itsuka, a high school student who possesses a unique power that can seal the power of the mysterious beings responsible for the spacequakes, known as Spirits.
With the help of his sister and a team of specialists, Shido sets out to seal the powers of the Spirits by making them fall in love with him and sealing their powers with a kiss.
Along the way, he meets and forms relationships with various Spirits, each with their own personalities and powers, as he tries to navigate the complex web of political intrigue and conflicting interests surrounding the Spirit phenomenon.
With a mix of action, romance, and comedy, Date A Live explores themes of love, trust, and the consequences of power. The series features a diverse cast of characters, each with their own motivations and conflicts, and a variety of creative and unique Spirit designs.
6. Guilty Crown
Guilty Crown is a science fiction anime series set in a post-apocalyptic world where Japan has been taken over by an international organization known as the GHQ. The series follows the story of Shu Ouma, a high school student who gains the power to extract weapons and tools from the hearts of others after meeting a girl named Inori Yuzuriha, who is part of a resistance group called Funeral Parlor.
With his newfound power, Shu becomes involved in the conflict between the GHQ and Funeral Parlor as he tries to navigate his changing relationships with Inori, his childhood friend Hare, and various other members of the resistance. Along the way, he discovers the dark secrets of the GHQ and the true nature of the virus that caused the apocalypse.
With a mix of action, drama, and romance, Guilty Crown explores themes of power, identity, and sacrifice. The series features a variety of unique and interesting characters, each with their own motivations and conflicts, and a visually stunning animation style with detailed character designs and fluid action sequences.
5. Darling in the FranXX
Darling in the FranXX is a science fiction anime series set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity is on the brink of extinction due to attacks from monstrous creatures known as Klaxosaurs. The series follows the story of a group of young pilots who operate giant mecha known as FranXX, which are powered by pairs of male-female pilots who must work together in a synchronized partnership.
The story centers around Hiro, a former prodigy who lost his ability to pilot FranXX, and Zero Two, a mysterious girl with Klaxosaur blood who is treated as an outcast by the other pilots. As Hiro and Zero Two form a deep connection, they become entangled in a web of conspiracies and secrets surrounding the true nature of the world and the FranXX program.
With a mix of action, romance, and drama, Darling in the FranXX explores themes of identity, sexuality, and the meaning of humanity. The series features a diverse and engaging cast of characters, each with their own personal struggles and motivations, and stunning animation that captures the intense mecha battles and emotional moments of the story.
4. Gundam Series
Gundam is a long-running anime franchise that spans various series and timelines, but at its core, it’s a sci-fi story that explores themes of war, politics, and humanity.
The series usually follows a young protagonist who becomes involved in a conflict involving giant mechs called Mobile Suits, which are often piloted by soldiers on both sides. The Gundam unit is typically a powerful and unique mobile suit that the protagonist pilots, and it often plays a key role in turning the tide of the war.
Throughout the various series, the protagonists and their allies must navigate complex political situations and moral dilemmas, all while fighting against powerful enemies and trying to find a way to end the conflict. The series often features high-stakes battles and dramatic character moments, with themes that explore the nature of war and its impact on individuals and societies.
3. Gurren Lagann
Gurren Lagann is an anime that follows the adventures of Simon and Kamina, two young men living in an underground village. They dream of reaching the surface world, which they believe is ruled by an entity called the Spiral King. One day, Simon discovers a small drill-shaped object that turns out to be a key to a massive robot, which they name Gurren Lagann.
Together with other members of their village, they use Gurren Lagann to fight against the Spiral King’s forces and embark on a journey to reach the surface world. As they travel, they encounter a variety of allies and enemies, all while uncovering the truth about the Spiral King and his plans for the world.
The series features intense battles, over-the-top action, and a strong emphasis on the power of human will and the importance of never giving up. Throughout their journey, Simon and Kamina develop as characters and learn to face their fears, all while fighting for their dreams and the future of their world.
2. Code Geass
Code Geass is an anime that takes place in an alternate version of Earth, where the Holy Empire of Britannia has conquered much of the world, including Japan, which is now known as Area 11. The story follows Lelouch, a former prince of Britannia who has been living in hiding in Area 11.
He obtains a mysterious power called Geass, which allows him to give orders to anyone and have them obey without question. Using this power, Lelouch becomes the masked vigilante Zero and leads a rebellion against Britannia, aiming to create a better world for his sister and the people of Area 11.
As the series progresses, Lelouch becomes embroiled in a complex web of political intrigue and must navigate alliances and enemies to achieve his goals. He also develops relationships with a variety of other characters, including his childhood friend Suzaku, who is now a soldier for Britannia, and C.C., a mysterious woman who gave him his Geass power.
Code Geass features intense action and drama, as well as themes of power, morality, and the consequences of one’s actions. The series explores the complexity of war and the sacrifices that individuals must make to achieve their goals, all while delivering an exciting and thought-provoking story.
1. Neon Genesis Evangelion
Neon Genesis Evangelion is an anime that follows the story of Shinji Ikari, a teenage boy who is recruited by his father to pilot a giant bio-machine called an Evangelion to fight against monstrous beings known as Angels.
As the series progresses, Shinji struggles with his role as a pilot and the emotional toll of fighting against the Angels, while also trying to navigate his relationships with the other pilots and the mysterious organization known as NERV, which is responsible for fighting the Angels.
The series features themes of psychology, philosophy, and religion, exploring the nature of consciousness, identity, and the human condition. It also delves into the complex relationships between characters and the impact of trauma on individuals and societies.
The series has become known for its iconic characters, intense action sequences, and its exploration of complex themes. It has also spawned numerous spin-offs, adaptations, and merchandise, cementing its place as a beloved and influential anime.
Conclusion
In conclusion, mecha anime is a popular sub-genre of science fiction anime that revolves around giant robots or mechs, typically piloted by human characters.
The genre has evolved since its origins in the 1950s and has expanded to include various types of mechs and exploration of themes like war, politics, and technology. Mecha anime is known for its unique blend of action, drama, and often political intrigue, as well as its iconic series such as Gundam, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Code Geass.
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