What is Mecha Anime? Definition, Meaning, and Example

What is Mecha anime? Mecha anime is a robotic manga (ロボットアニメ, robotto anime) that is based on science fiction and has captivated audiences worldwide with its futuristic settings and thrilling narratives. The genre has two subcategories: “super robot” (featuring super-sized, implausible robots) and “real robot (where robots are governed by realistic physics and technological limitations). One of the best examples is the “Gurren Lagann Series”.

Mecha series cover various genres and have expanded into other media, like video games. Mecha has also made scale model robots popular.

This article delves into the origins, historical evolution, and the current landscape of the best Mecha Anime, providing a comprehensive guide for fans.

Where Did Mecha Anime Come From?

Anime Mecha came from the first short manga in 1940, which is also called science fiction anime. The 1940 short manga Electric Octopus (デンキダコ, Denki Dako) featured a powered, piloted, mechanical octopus.

The Mecha series was created by Mitsuteru Yokoyama; –Tetsujin 28-go was released in 1956. Yokoyama was inspired to become a manga creator by Osamu Tezuka and began publishing the manga in Shonen, an iconic boy’s magazine, in 1956. Additionally, Osamu Tezuka’s “Astro Boy” played a significant part in popularizing Mecha elements in anime, contributing to its early growth.

Is Science Fiction a Mecha Anime?

Yes, Mecha anime is also called science fiction. While Mecha anime is a subgenre of science fiction, it is essential to differentiate between the two. 

Science fiction covers a broad range of themes, while Mecha Anime specifically focuses on the use of giant robots as a primary focus. However, the genres often connect, incorporating futuristic concepts and advanced technology to create captivating stories.

Evolution of Mecha Anime with Time

The evolution of Mecha Anime can be categorized into different times.

The 1970s saw the rise of Super Robots, characterized by powerful, often intelligent robots fighting larger-than-life villains. The 1980s saw a shift towards Real Robots, introducing more realistic and militarized mechs. The 1990s witnessed Mecha Anime gaining international popularity, and the 2000s brought technological advancements, enhancing animation quality and storytelling capabilities.

A video will clear it in more detail –

First Mecha Anime Movie?

In 1981, the first Mecha movie “Mobile Suit Gundam” made its debut, establishing the Mecha genre’s presence in the cinematic realm.

This famous film expanded on the original Gundam series, introducing new audiences to the complex nature of war and human emotions within the atmosphere of giant robot fights.

Lets watch the trailer below-

The success of this movie played a crucial role in shaping the direction of Mecha Anime in the years to come.

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

Best Mecha Anime to Watch in 2024 and These are the Mecha Anime Examples

As we step into 2023, Mecha Anime continues to grow. Thanks to technological advancements, we can now enjoy immersive storytelling and amazing animation. The genre’s global popularity has grown, with fans from different cultures enjoying the intricate narratives and dynamic mech fights.

Top Mecha Anime to be watched in 2024 –

1. Neon Genesis Evangelion –  Watch at Netflix (8.5), Release Date: October 1985

In 2015, a big disaster called the Second Impact happened. A teenager named Shinji Ikari is told by his father to control bio-machines called Evangelions and fight against dangerous creatures known as Angels. Afterward, Shinji understands how important it is to have connections with other people and reunites with everyone in Tokyo-3. Gendo tries to do a project that combines people’s souls for good reasons but is stopped because of something important that Shinji realizes.

2. Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion – Watch at prime (8.7), Release Date: October 2006

Lelouch vi Britannia is a prince who was kicked out of his country. He wants to get back at his father for killing his mother. Lelouch and his sister Nunnally are sent to Japan as part of a political plan, but then their homeland gets attacked by Britannia. Lelouch gets a special power called Geass that lets him control what other people do. He becomes Zero, the leader of a group called The Black Knights who are fighting against Britannia. His goal is to destroy Britannia and make a better world for Nunnally. However, he has conflicts with Suzaku, Kallen Stadtfeld, and other people in a big battle that will change everything.

3. Mobile Suit Gundam: Iron-Blooded Orphans – Watch at Amazon Prime, Hulu IMDb (7.9), Release Date: October 2015

In 323 P.D., humans colonized Mars after a war. The people of Mars want independence but rely on Earth for money. Kudelia, a noblewoman, hires CGS, a security company, to take her to Earth for talks. Gjallarhorn, an Earth military group, attacks them. Orga, the leader of CGS, rebels and creates a new mercenary company called Tekkadan. Years later, Gjallarhorn reorganizes under Rustal’s guidance, Kudelia becomes chairwoman of the Mars Union, and surviving members of Tekkadan go their separate ways while remembering their fallen friends.

4. Giant Robo The Animation: The Day The Earth Stood Still – Watch at YouTube or Amazon Prime, IMDb (7.9), Released Date: July 1992

The series takes place in a futuristic world where a new type of energy called the Shizuma Drive has taken over from petroleum and nuclear power. Instead of engaging in full-scale war, the IPO focuses on spying and has its own team of Experts known as the Experts of Justice. Daisaku Kusama, who controls a massive robot built by his father, becomes their secret weapon against Big Fire’s superhuman members. The story examines how society suffers when it relies too heavily on one energy source and when its prosperity is undermined by deceitful compromises.

5. Darling in the Franxx – Watch at Amazon Prime Video and Crunchyroll, IMDb (7.3), Released Date: January 2018

In a world after a big disaster, people are fighting to stay alive against huge creatures called klaxosaurs. They use Franxx, which are giant robots controlled by pairs of boys and girls known as parasites. During Hiro’s graduation ceremony, a klaxosaur attacks and kills Zero Two’s current partner. She asks Hiro to be her new partner instead. As they spend more time together, they grow close and fight side by side as the story goes on.

Conclusion

Mecha anime has come a long way since its humble beginnings, transforming into a genre that offers a rich narrative framework, complex characters, and breathtaking visuals.

From the early innovators to the modern masterpieces, the evolution of Mecha anime reflects the changing tastes and expectations of its audience. As technology advances and storytelling techniques continue to evolve, one can only anticipate the exciting developments that await in the future of this dynamic and ever-evolving genre.

Comment to share your favorite Mecha anime and tell me about your experiences with this genre.