Mecha Mayhem: Top Anime Battles in Political Power Struggles!

Summary

Broken Blade merges a Medieval setting with advanced mecha controlled by magic for a unique story.
Aldnoah.Zero showcases a ceasefire between Earth and Mars, with a divide within the Vers Empire.
Full Metal Panic delves into geopolitical conflicts and military intervention in the modern world.

In the world of Mecha anime, the narrative often follows one of two paths. One path is the “monster” genre, where massive human-piloted mechas are deployed to battle colossal Kaiju creatures for the sake of Earth’s survival. Titles like Evangelion, Knights of Sidonia, and Darling in the Franxx are well-known examples in this category.

In the second category, we have the “political” approach, where rival groups engage in conflict with their mechanical robots or mecha. Conflict arises both on the battlefield and during negotiations. These are the types of mecha anime that we’ll be exploring in this list. Here are seven outstanding political mecha anime for your consideration.

7. Broken Blade

A Geopolitical Conflict with Mecha and Magic

Although it boasts intense action scenes involving mechanical warfare and a narrative steeped in military and political strife, Broken Blade seems to be relatively unknown among this collection of anime titles. It’s unfortunate since this show presents several distinctive story aspects, like its fusion of advanced mecha technology with a medieval backdrop, or the magical control of colossal robots known as “Golems”.

In the tale of “Broken Blade,” the formidable nation known as the Athens Commonwealth aims to conquer a smaller realm called the Kingdom of Krisna. To protect its populace, the Kingdom of Krisna embarks on a defensive conflict against the unyielding assaults from the Athens Commonwealth. The narrative unfolds primarily from the perspectives of the King and Queen of Krisna, who face challenging political and military choices, as well as the soldiers from both sides who clash with their Golems on the battlefield.

6. Aldnoah.Zero

A Civil War With Alien Technology

In the series titled “Aldnoah.Zero,” a conflict has been ongoing between Earth and a colony from Mars. The discord originated several decades past when the Martian settlement unearthed an ancient alien technology, termed Aldnoah, which they used to assert their independence, form the Vers Empire, and even launch attacks against Earth. A truce has held for the last 15 years, but the animosity between these two groups persists, particularly among Earth’s populace who are aware of their inability to counter the advanced weaponry possessed by the Vers Empire.

Unbeknownst to many, there’s actually discord within the empire. The nobility, driven by insatiable greed, have essentially taken over the imperial military, often referred to as the Orbital Knights, from the royal family. Not only do they aim to oust the royal family, but they also harbor ambitions for an invasion of Earth. They’re just waiting for a suitable excuse to unleash their full-scale assault. The narrative kicks off with an assassination attempt on the First Princess of the Verse Empire, who is currently engaged in diplomatic affairs on Earth.

5. Full Metal Panic

Enforcing Peace Through Military Intervention

Among all the shows on this collection, “Full Metal Panic” seems to be the one that comes across as the most realistic. This is because the plot unfolds in a setting similar to our current world, featuring groups, objectives, and military tactics and strategies that resonate with many viewers due to their relatability. Admittedly, it does incorporate giant robots, but for the most part, the series strives to depict contemporary societal issues that its audience can relate to and comprehend.

Beneath its teenage melodrama and amusing humor, Full Metal Panic revolves around global political struggles, covert military operations, and instances of military intervention. At the core is a clandestine paramilitary group known as Mithril, which is prepared to undertake secret missions and military interventions in the name of justice. However, it doesn’t take long to perceive that Mithril, along with other such organizations, has been manipulated by powerful nations to advance their interests and wage proxy wars across the globe.

4. Mobile Suit Gundam

A Political And Military Conflict That Spans The Universe

Most series within the Gundam franchise feature a significant political undertone amidst their mechanized battles. However, for those specifically interested in politics, there’s no better source than the original 1979 series – Mobile Suit Gundam. In this series, the Earth Federation governs all of humanity on Earth and various Space Colonies across the cosmos. Regrettably, their policies can be controversial, often resulting in unjust conditions, particularly for the residents living in the colonies.

The situation deteriorates so severely that one colony decides to break free and transform into the Principality of Zeon. In response, the Earth Federation launches an assault which unfortunately causes the deaths of numerous innocent people in the colonies. Conversely, as they face a much stronger Earth Federation army, the Principality of Zeon employs ruthless strategies that lead to the loss of many innocent lives on Earth. And so, a prolonged and grueling conflict marked by propaganda, treachery, and casualties begins.

3. Super Dimension Fortress Macross

Mecha And Culture As Weapons Of War

Despite not having the global recognition of the Gundam franchise, Macross stands as one of the oldest mecha series in anime history, with its first installment airing in the early ’80s. Each series within this franchise offers unique narratives, but a common thread is the inclusion of political themes. Among them, the original 1982 series, Super Dimension Fortress Macross, notably puts politics at the forefront of its storyline.

The two conflicting parties are humans governed by the United Nations (UN) and an advanced alien race known as the Zentradi, who were genetically engineered for warfare. Intriguingly, they may be enemies on the battlefield, but in many aspects, they share striking similarities. For instance, both the UN and the Zentradi are ruled under authoritarian systems that prioritize military strategy over the well-being of their citizens. Furthermore, the UN employs culture as a tool for political manipulation, using captivating music and performances to divert public attention from the underlying conflict.

2. Eureka Seven

The War-Torn Path To Coexistence

Above the captivating spectacle of Nirvash typeZero, the star mecha from Eureka Seven, gracefully gliding and exhibiting a chic style through the heavens, lies a complex narrative that delves into themes such as love, strife, and the power struggles between two distinct species vying for control over Earth. One of these species is humanity, the original inhabitants of Earth who were displaced from their homes and have been living in space for hundreds of years.

On the opposite side, reside extraterrestrial beings known as the Scub Coral, who have taken over Earth at present. As viewers delve deeper into this narrative, discerning right from wrong becomes increasingly complex, as both sides have incurred casualties. The human race too is fragmented, with varying visions for the future. This series is riddled with deaths, deceit, and manipulative messaging. However, at its heart, Eureka Seven explores the trials and tribulations of living together harmoniously.

1. Code Geass: Lelouch Of The Rebellion

A Rebellion Against Tyranny And Colonialism

In the realm of Code Geass, the mighty British Empire, along with its formidable army, led by advanced mecha called Knightmare Frames, has been swiftly conquering lands worldwide. This aggressive expansion causes immense suffering and sorrow among the peaceful inhabitants of the nations unlucky enough to be in the Empire’s crosshairs.

Fortunately, even amidst the turmoil, a champion emerges – one affectionately called Zero. He is the beacon of hope for those subjugated by the Empire, rallying them in a resistance movement that not only thwarts the Empire’s schemes but also demolishes some of their critical strongholds. Regrettably, it doesn’t take long for Zero to understand that unwaveringly adhering to the righteous path won’t be enough to overthrow the oppressive Empire.

In order to secure victory in the conflict, he adopts strategies that mirror the Empire’s harshness. He is prepared to sacrifice some for the benefit of many. He deftly manipulates both friends and foes. He resorts to trickery and mental warfare. He even uses propaganda to rally public opinion. For him, the goal justifies any means. Gradually, as Zero fights against a tyrant, he transforms into a tyrant himself.

2025-02-13 07:36