They often use similar elements from other anime to showcase in their own show. It might be a popular running gag, a famous symbol, a character reference, or any other attempt at bringing another show into its domain. Examples of mecha anime includes:įor a more in-depth look as this subgenre, check out this list of the top 10 mecha anime.Ī parody anime is one where countless numbers of other anime references are showcased throughout the plot. With a rabid fanbase that loves mecha designs, this genre is one that has been consistently popular over the years. Gurren Lagann was a massive hit that brought the genre back to its hot-blooded and idealistic roots. Neon Genesis Evangelion is considered to be an iconic and dark deconstruction of the genre as it examined the psyche of young pilots. Some of the earlier iconic titles from the late 70s and 80s include Mobile Suit Gundam, Mazinger Z, and Super Dimension Fortress Macross. The mecha can be considered to be one of Japan's most popular exports. This may very well be the most iconic anime subgenre as there is a multitude of memorable shows in this category.
As a general trend, mecha is often seen alongside the military, sci-fi, and action genre. And while this subgenre is rising in fame as the days go by, it almost always uses a standard formula to carry the plot. You’ll never see a mecha anime without a robot or mechanical suit in it. Mecha stands for mechanical (as in mechanical units or robots).