Top 6 Animal Mechas in Anime - Investment Policy

Summary

Robots in anime come in various forms, including animal mechas, creating unique battles and stories.
Diverse robot designs, from Friender to Escaflowne, showcase agility and strength in battle.
Influential mecha anime series like Voltron and GaoGaiGar introduce memorable, iconic characters.

In any given anime series, it’s almost guaranteed that a mechanical character, ranging from tiny to colossal, will make an appearance at some stage. These robots might assume various forms such as animals or other shapes, and there are actually more of them than people realize. They can function as friends, foes, main characters, or even legendary entities. Among the numerous roles they play, anime enthusiasts have come across some of the most unforgettable characters ever created.

In some cases, humans operate animal-like mechs, while AI controls others; however, each one offers a distinct blend of speed, power, and ferocity on the battlefield. From Zoids to Escaflowne, these mechanical beasts boast stunning character designs and original narratives that result in iconic battle scenes and compelling tales. Here’s a look at some remarkable examples.

6. Beast King GoLion aka Voltron

All Hail The King

The Japanese title of the show that eventually became known as Voltron: Defender Of The Universe in the west is “Beast King GoLion”. This influential anime series, which left a mark on several entries here, first appeared in the early 80s. It tells the story of five young heroes who pilot their own robotic lions, capable of merging into the powerful GoLion. In addition to its popularity in Japan, it also served as an introduction to anime for many Western viewers.

Beast King Golion stands out for its unique design as each constituent units bore a distinct look, mirroring the individual characters of each pilot, who each had their own personality. One of the most iconic giant robots in anime, Golion’s thrilling battle sequences and cosmic backdrop gave it more of a space opera feel than a typical giant robot anime. It also played a significant role in shaping the evolution of mecha in anime.

5. Friender

Man’s Best Friend

Friender can be described as a unique character that embodies the qualities of a cherished pet, a potent weapon, and a versatile Swiss Army knife. Anime enthusiasts will recognize him as the faithful sidekick in the dystopian anime series “Neo-Human Casshern” (commonly known as just “Casshern”), a renowned production by Tatsunoko Productions that originated in the late 1970s. The protagonist of

Friender boasts an aesthetic that blends Wolf-like and Great Dane characteristics, serving dual purposes in combat and support. This versatile character can morph into various vehicles such as motorcycles, submarines, or even jets. In its standard form, it exhibits a ferocious nature, outmatching any robot adversaries who dare cross its path. Much like many loyal dogs, Friender is fond of affection from his master and will defend him with unwavering loyalty.

4. Escaflowne

Here Be Dragons

Under the guidance of renowned anime creator Shoji Kawamori, The Vision Of Escaflowne was a series that defied convention by tossing the rulebook out of a nearby window. The narrative interwove a high school student, a mystical kingdom, and colossal steam-powered mecha in a fantasy realm, adding romance to the mix. The show stands out not only for its captivating storytelling but also for its iconic theme song, which is often recognized as one of the greatest anime openers ever composed.

In the series, the combat machines are called Guymelefs – these are massive suits of armor designed for intense one-on-one battles at close range. The legendary Guymelef is Escaflowne, which stands out from the rest due to its unique ability to transform into a dragon, making it a formidable opponent both on land and in the skies. It blends magical and elemental characteristics, fitting for its fantasy backdrop, featuring a potent energy sword and mystical barrier.

3. Zoids

An 80s Icon Still Going Strong

Zoids started out as a specialized model kit in Japan during the 1980s, eventually gaining international recognition and becoming a common item in American and European toy stores. It could be considered a hidden gem; while it may not have had the intergalactic dominance of its pop culture counterpart, Transformers, it still managed to build a considerable media empire through comic books, an ongoing toy line, numerous video games, and an anime series that continues today.

In various animal shapes, such as dinosaurs, tigers, and colossal gorillas, there exist cybernetic beasts. These mechanical creatures have been employed as weapons of war by the competing empires in the anime adaptation that encompasses six series, including “Zoids: Chaotic Century” and “Zoids: New Century.” Despite their origins from the 1980s, the mecha designs continue to appear modern and energetic even today.

2. Daltanious

It Walked So Voltron Could Run

Directed by Katsutoshi Sasaki
Released on March 21, 1979
Studio: Sunrise/Toei
Number of episodes: 47

Previously, there was the show called Daltanious, which later became known as Mirai Robo Daltanious in Japan. This series debuted in 1979 and is recognized for being one of the first mecha anime to feature a combining robot based on lions. The storyline takes place in the 22nd century and includes classic elements such as resourceful teenagers, a powerful and warring galactic empire, and three distinct mechanical units that combine to form an incredibly potent super unit.

In this setup, Daltainous consisted of three key components: Atlaus, a highly advanced super-robot; Beralios, an intelligent lion robot; and Gunper, a combat robot. Notably, when the mech took its final shape, Beralios’ head served as both the chest and headpiece. This anime was among the pioneers to incorporate an animal element in its fusion process, although it didn’t achieve the same level of success as later titles. Nevertheless, it maintains a dedicated fanbase among mecha enthusiasts.

1. The King of Braves GaoGaiGar

An All-Time Legend

As an ardent anime enthusiast, I’m thrilled to share that sunrise, the brilliant studio behind the iconic “Mobile Suit Gundam,” presents a timeless 90s masterpiece that marked the pinnacle of the “Braves” series. The narrative revolves around the cyborg protagonist, Gai Shishioh, commanding a battalion in a fierce struggle against an alien race known as Zonders. The titanic mech, the enigmatic “Galeon,” shaped like a majestic lion, is the central figure of interest here, serving as the heart of the colossal “GaoGaiGar.

Among the timeless Super Robot anime masterpieces, “The King of Braves GaoGaiGar” skillfully constructed a compelling storyline centered around courage, self-sacrifice, and the indomitable strength of the human spirit. Even today, you can still find its legendary robot figurines in toy and hobby stores, solidifying its status as an undeniable anime legend. The series’ iconic battle sequences, such as GaoGaiGar’s signature Heaven and Hell finishing move, along with intense human emotional moments, set it apart as a true standout.

2025-04-05 06:34