20 Top IMDb-Rated Mecha Series From Top To Bottom You Should Watch In 2024

People enjoy watching robot battles, if the popularity of the Transformers films is any indication. These grandiose, extravagant action tales have been a staple of anime since the release of Gigantor Tetsujin 28-go in 1963.

Even now, some classic Mecha anime still serve as inspiration for the genre, while more recent programs attempt to push the boundaries of storytelling and action. Regardless of the genre’s current popularity or presence, Mecha anime is here to stay thanks to these amazing shows. Here are a few of the best Mecha anime series for those who want to dabble in this world.

It should come as no surprise that there are far fewer Mecha anime this season than Fantasy, Action, Isekai, or Romance programs; still, Winter 2024 offers a wider selection than most seasons. Metallic Rouge is a classic sci-fi show rather than one in the subgenre, but it does have Mecha-like transformations. While some of those programs may satisfy a person’s need for robots, they are not the best Mecha anime this season. 

Here are the best Mecha anime which I recommend you to watch in 2024.

1. Bang Brave Bang Bravern!: IMDb (9.4) 2024

Plot: Lewis Smith and Isami Ao cross paths in Oahu, Hawaii during joint military exercises. Suddenly, a mysterious enemy invades the island during AD-RIMPAC. As despair looms, a talking robot named Bravern emerges and asks Isami to pilot it into battle.

My Recommendations: Bang Brave Bang Bravern is an exhilarating, action-packed ride through a world of daring heists and unexpected betrayals. With stunning visuals and heart-pounding sequences, this film keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. A must-watch for adrenaline junkies and thrill-seekers alike!

2. Code Geass : IMDb (8.7) 2006

Plot: Lelouch vi Britannia, an exiled prince, seeks vengeance for his mother’s murder and the loss of his sister’s abilities. Sent to Japan as political pawns, Lelouch vows to destroy Britannia. Seven years later, he gains a power called Geass that allows him to command others. Adopting the identity of Zero, he forms a rebellion called The Black Knights. However, he must face Suzaku, Kallen Stadtfeld, and others in a battle that will reshape the world.

My Recommendations: In Code Geass, a brilliant strategist gains the power of absolute obedience, using it to lead a rebellion against an oppressive empire. With intricate plot twists and intense mecha battles, it’s a gripping tale of power, morality, and sacrifice that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats till the very end.

3. Neon Genesis Evangelion: IMDb (8.5) 1995

Plot: In 2015, after a global cataclysm called the Second Impact, Shinji Ikari is summoned to Tokyo-3 by his father. He witnesses battles between United Nations forces and monstrous beings called Angels. Shinji is pressured into piloting a bio-machine called Evangelion Unit-01 to fight the Angels. After initial struggles, he settles into life in Tokyo-3 and forms relationships with Misato, Rei, and Asuka. They work together to defeat the remaining Angels and prevent a global catastrophe. Along the way, Shinji faces personal challenges and experiences emotional turmoil but ultimately finds redemption and reunites with his friends.

My Recommendations: Neon Genesis Evangelion is a groundbreaking anime that delves deep into the psyche of its characters amidst the backdrop of mecha battles and apocalyptic scenarios. With its rich symbolism, complex themes of identity, and stunning animation, it’s a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking storytelling and stunning visuals.

4. Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex: IMDb (8.5) 2002

Plot: In 2030, New Port City is filled with cyborgs. Public Security Section 9, a team of ex-military officers and detectives, investigates crimes. They uncover corruption within the Japanese government while dealing with ongoing investigations into two incidents.

Season 1: In the first season of Stand Alone Complex, a hacktivist known as the Laughing Man uncovers a cover-up involving micromachine corporations and the Japanese government. He tries to expose the truth but is labeled a terrorist. Section 9 regroups to bring justice and dissolve the corrupt government.

Season 2: The second season, 2nd GIG, takes place two years after the first season. It explores the consequences of the world wars on Japan and its invited refugees. They discover that Kazundo Gōda has been manipulating events and creating unrest among refugees. Ultimately, Gōda is found guilty and killed, but not before causing the death of Hideo Kuze.

My Recommendations: Ghost In The Shell: Stand Alone Complex is a mesmerizing cyberpunk masterpiece, seamlessly blending action, philosophy, and existential themes. Its intricate storytelling and captivating animation create a thought-provoking experience that delves deep into the essence of identity and consciousness. A must-watch for any fan of futuristic thrillers.

5. Gurren Lagann : IMDb (8.3) 2007

Plot: In a future ruled by the Spiral King, mankind lives underground. Simon, a digger from Giha village, is encouraged by his friend Kamina to join Team Gurren and explore the surface world. They discover mechas called Gunmen and fight against Lordgenome’s army of Beastmen. Kamina’s death causes Simon to sink into depression until he meets Nia, Lordgenome’s daughter. With her help and the support of Team Dai-Gurren, Simon becomes their leader. Twenty years later, a new generation continues its mission to protect the universe.

My Recommendations: Gurren Lagann is an electrifying Mecha anime that transcends limits, propelling viewers into a universe of boundless ambition and relentless spirit. With its breathtaking animation, unforgettable characters, and epic battles, it’s a journey that ignites the flames of determination and inspires you to break through any obstacle.

6. 86: Eighty-Six: IMDb (8.2) 2021

Plot: The Republic of San Magnolia has been at war with the Empire of Giad for nine years. They initially suffered losses to the Empire’s mechanized Legions, but they developed their own units called Juggernauts, piloted by humans known as 86. The Colorata minority, who are considered subhuman, are forced to fight in this war. Major Lena Milizé, an Alba noble and military officer, is assigned as the Handler of the Spearhead Squadron. As Lena gets to know the squadron and their leader Shinei Nouzen, they uncover a dark secret about the Republic and the war.

My Recommendations: 86: Eighty-Six is a captivating sci-fi thriller that seamlessly blends action, drama, and social commentary. Set in a dystopian future, it follows a group of young soldiers fighting against prejudice and injustice. With its intense storyline and poignant themes, it’s a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking cinema.

7. Voltron: Legendary Defender: IMDb (8.1) 2016

Plot: The Galra Empire has long been a menace, enslaving races and destroying civilizations. Voltron, a powerful robot warrior made of five lion-like starships, is the only threat to their rule. King Alfor split Voltron to protect it from falling into Galra hands. Princess Allura and her advisor Coran hid on planet Arus with the Black Lion. In the present, a group of space pilots find the Blue Lion and join forces with Princess Allura to become Paladins. Together, they reunite all five Lions and form Voltron to free the universe from Galra control.

My Recommendations: Voltron: Legendary Defender is a thrilling blend of action, humor, and heart. With stunning animation and dynamic characters, it revitalizes the classic series while adding depth and modern twists. It’s a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and adventure, delivering epic battles and poignant moments that resonate long after the credits roll.

8. Mobile Suit Gundam 00: IMDb (8.1) 2007

Plot: 

Season1: In the year 2307 AD, humanity faced a crisis when fossil fuels became scarce. They discovered the power of Dyson rings and built orbital elevators to support them. Three major powers emerged: the Union, controlling the Americas, Australia, New Zealand, and Japan; the Human Reform League, controlling mainland Asia and Oceania; and the AEU, controlling mainland Europe and North Atlantic islands. The United Nations Army formed to counter their intervention but struggled against their superior technology.

Season 2: Four years after the battle between Celestial Being and the UN Forces, humanity forms the A-Laws to maintain peace. However, they abuse their power and oppress freedoms in the name of unity. Setsuna confronts them but is overwhelmed. He is saved by Tieria who pilots a new mobile suit. Other pilots join forces and uncover a third party manipulating both sides of the conflict called Innovators. Celestial Being teams up with dissidents from A-Laws to stop oppression. Setsuna becomes an Innovator and defeats Ribbons Almark, ending the conflict. 

My Recommendations: Mobile Suit Gundam 00 offers a gripping blend of intense Mecha battles and thought-provoking political intrigue. Set in a world torn by war, it follows the struggles of the Celestial Being to end the conflict through armed interventions. With dynamic characters and stunning animation, it’s a must-watch for sci-fi and anime enthusiasts alike.

9. FLCL: IMDb (8.1) 2000

Plot: FLCL is a coming-of-age story about Naota, a 12-year-old boy living with his father and grandfather. His life changes when Haruko, a strange woman on a Vespa, arrives and causes chaos. Haruko claims to be from an alien police force, but others believe she wants to find Atomsk. Eventually, Naota becomes Atomsk’s host and saves Earth. In the fifth season, Masaki sees ghosts and enters another dimension with the help of a tower. He learns he loves Harumi, who is from Mars in the other dimension.

My Recommendations: FLCL is a whirlwind of eccentricity, blending coming-of-age themes with surrealism and frenetic action. Its quirky characters and offbeat storytelling will leave you exhilarated and questioning reality. Prepare for a wild ride of emotion.

10. Giant Robo The Animation: The Day The Earth Stood Still: IMDb (7.9) 1992

Plot: In a retro-futuristic world, the Shizuma Drive replaces petroleum and nuclear power as a non-polluting energy source. Ten years ago, scientists created this system but almost destroyed the world in the process. Now, the BF Group aims to recreate that event with the help of a lost scientist. The story delves into a society dependent on one energy source and facing ruin due to compromise and deceit. To counter BF’s superhumans, they recruit Experts of Justice who work with Daisaku Kusama and his Giant Roboinvention—IPO’s trump card against Big Fire.

My Recommendations: Giant Robo: The Animation – The Day The Earth Stood Still is a mesmerizing blend of breathtaking animation, epic battles, and heartfelt storytelling. It’s a must-watch for fans of mecha anime, offering a gripping narrative that explores themes of sacrifice, redemption, and the power of humanity in the face of overwhelming odds.

11. The Vision of Escaflowne : IMDb (7.8) 1996

Plot: Gaea is a dimension created by the wishes of Atlantis’ inhabitants as it sank. On Gaea, Earth is called Mystic Moon. Gaea’s size, mass, atmosphere, temperature belts, and seasons match Earth’s. The story follows Hitomi Kanzaki after she arrives on Gaea and gains enhanced psychic powers. She gets involved in conflicts between Emperor Isaac Dornkirk’s Zaibach Empire and surrounding peaceful countries. As the series progresses, characters’ pasts and motivations are revealed along with Atlantis’ history and Gaea’s true nature.

My Recommendations: The Vision of Escaflowne is a mesmerizing blend of fantasy, romance, and adventure, weaving a captivating tale of fate and courage. With stunning animation, memorable characters, and an epic soundtrack, it’s an immersive journey into a world filled with magic and intrigue. A must-watch for any anime enthusiast.

12. Macross: IMDb (7.8) 1994

Plot: After an alien spaceship crashes on Earth, humanity unites under the United Nations. The ship is transformed into SDF-1 Macross and a war begins when hostile aliens attack. The Macross attempts to escape but is teleported with its city to distant space. Hikaru Ichijou, a pilot, and Minmay Lynn, a singer, join the crew on a journey filled with grief and drama as they confront the horrors of war.

My Recommendations: Macross is a captivating blend of mecha action, romance, and interstellar warfare. Set against the backdrop of a conflict between humans and alien races, it delivers thrilling battles, heartfelt character development, and an unforgettable soundtrack. A must-watch for fans of science fiction and anime alike.

13. Eureka Seven : IMDb (7.8) 2005

Plot: In the town of Bellforest, Renton Thurston wants to join a group called Gekkostate for adventure. He faces pressure from his grandfather to become a mechanic like him and his father’s legacy. Renton finds excitement in riding Trapar wave particles like surfing. One day, an unknown object crashes into Renton’s garage, revealing a robot called Nirvash typeZERO piloted by Eureka from Gekkostate. Renton becomes involved with Gekkostate as he becomes the co-pilot of Nirvash alongside Eureka.

My Recommendations: Eureka Seven is an enthralling blend of Mecha action, coming-of-age drama, and heartfelt romance. Set in a vibrant world with stunning animation, it follows Renton and Eureka on an epic journey filled with adventure, sacrifice, and the power of love. A must-watch for any anime enthusiast seeking a captivating and emotionally resonant story.

14. Knights Of Sidonia : IMDb (7.7) 2014

Plot: In the year 3394, mankind escapes Earth after it is destroyed by shapeshifting aliens called Gauna. They settle aboard colossal spacecraft made from the remains of the planet, with one ship called Sidonia. The people on Sidonia have developed their own culture based on Japan and have advanced technologies like human cloning and genetic engineering. Sidonia defends itself using large mechanized weapons called Gardes powered by Higgs particles, armed with cannons and special spears to destroy the Gauna. Young individuals capable of piloting are drafted as Garde pilots.

My Recommendations: Knights of Sidonia is a captivating blend of gripping action, complex characters, and stunning animation. Set in the depths of space, it follows humanity’s struggle against an enigmatic alien threat. With its rich world-building and intense battles, this sci-fi anime is a must-watch for any fan of the genre.

15. Patlabor: The Mobile Police: IMDb (7.7) 1989

Plot: The story is set in a near-future from 1998 to 2002, where robots called “Labors” are used for heavy construction work. The Tokyo Metropolitan Police has their own Patrol Labors, known as “Patlabors,” to combat crimes and accidents involving Labors. The focus is on the Tokyo Metropolitan Police Special Vehicle Section 2, Division 2, with Noa Izumi as the main protagonist. In the third Patlabor film, Hata and Kusumi take on important roles. The feature films and OVAs follow different continuities.

My Recommendations: Patlabor: The Mobile Police is a captivating blend of Mecha action and police procedural, set in a future where giant robots are used for law enforcement. With its compelling characters, intricate mysteries, and thought-provoking themes, this anime series is a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and crime dramas alike.

16. Gunbuster: IMDb (7.7) 1988

Plot: In 2015, Admiral Yuzo Takaya led a space expedition fleet that was destroyed by space monsters. Six years later, his daughter Noriko enlists in the Space Academy and is chosen to represent Japan in a new mission. Since she is the daughter of Yuzo and Coach Koichiro Ohta survived the previous attack, Noriko faces bullying. However, Ohta believes in her potential. With hard work and determination, Noriko aims to become the best Machine Weapon pilot and control the giant robot Gunbuster to help Earth win against the space monsters.

My Recommendations: Gunbuster is an exhilarating Mecha anime that combines intense action with deep emotional resonance. With stunning animation and a gripping story, it follows Noriko Takaya’s journey from novice to hero as she battles space monsters and confronts the sacrifices required for victory. A must-watch for any anime enthusiast.

17. Full Metal Panic!: IMDb (7.6) 2002

Plot: The series is about Sousuke Sagara, a member of a covert anti-terrorist organization called Mithril. His mission is to protect a spirited Japanese high school girl named Kaname Chidori. To do so, Sousuke enrolls in Jindai High School with the help of his comrades Kurz Weber and Melissa Mao. Being unfamiliar with social interactions, Sousuke’s classmates view him as obsessed with the military. However, Chidori realizes that he is protecting her and they develop a connection. Despite this, Sousuke cannot reveal why Chidori is being targeted or his true purpose due to orders and lack of information.

My Recommendations: Full Metal Panic! seamlessly blends high-octane mecha action with heartfelt character development and witty humor. Set in a world of military intrigue and teenage romance, it offers a thrilling ride for fans of both genres. Prepare to be captivated by its compelling story and dynamic characters, making it a must-watch for any anime enthusiast.

18. Magic Knight Rayearth: IMDb (7.6) 1994

Plot: Magic Knight Rayearth follows the story of three eighth-grade girls: Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu. During a field trip to Tokyo Tower, they are transported to another world called Cephiro. They discover that Cephiro’s well-being depends on the prayers of its Pillar, Princess Emeraude. The girls are tasked with rescuing her from an antagonist named Zagato. Eventually, they defeat Zagato and reach Princess Emeraude, but they must make a difficult choice regarding her fate. Ultimately, Hikaru becomes the new Pillar of Cephiro and rejects the notion that one person should bear such responsibility alone. With Mokona’s acceptance, they bring change to Cephiro while also solving problems on other planets with the rulers’ help.

My Recommendations: Magic Knight Rayearth is an enchanting blend of fantasy, friendship, and adventure that captivates viewers of all ages. With its vibrant animation, compelling characters, and epic quests, it’s a must-watch for anyone seeking a thrilling journey into a magical realm where courage and camaraderie triumph over darkness.

19. The Big O: IMDb (7.5) 1999

Plot: Roger Smith fails to negotiate with terrorists, resulting in the death of his client. He then becomes responsible for caring for Dorothy Wayneright, a young female android. Roger continues to take on negotiation work in Paradigm City, leading him to uncover the city’s mysteries and encounter large enemies that require Big O. The series ends with a battle between Big O and Big Fau as reality is reset by Big Venus merging with Big O. Roger drives through a restored Paradigm City with Dorothy and Angel observing him from the side of the road.

My Recommendations: The Big O is a gripping psychological thriller that keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. With its intricate plot twists and stellar performances, this film delves deep into the complexities of human nature, leaving a lasting impact that will linger long after the credits roll.

20. Armored Trooper Votoms: IMDb (7.5) 1983

Plot: In the Astragius Galaxy, a century-old war between the Gilgamesh and Balarant nations is coming to an end. Armored Troopers, piloted by soldiers known as VOTOMS or Bottoms, have been the main weapon in this conflict. Chirico Cuvie, a former elite soldier, is transferred to a suspicious mission where he unknowingly aids in stealing secrets from his own side. Betrayed and left for dead, Chirico survives and becomes hunted while seeking the truth behind the operation. His pursuit is fueled by his desire to uncover a galactic conspiracy involving a mysterious woman.

My Recommendations: Armored Trooper Votoms is a gripping Mecha anime series that masterfully blends intense action with deep philosophical themes. Set in a gritty, war-torn universe, it follows the journey of Chirico Cuvie, a stoic soldier seeking truth amidst the chaos of battle. A must-watch for fans of intricate storytelling and thrilling Mecha combat.