Top 10 Transforming Mecha in Anime: Ranked!

Summary

Getter Robo: Influential in introducing transforming mecha with combining forms for battle superiority.
Beast King GoLion: Launched Voltron series in the West with unique lion units combining into a powerful entity.
VF-1 Valkyrie: Iconic and timeless transforming mecha with forms inspired by real-life aircraft and stunning design.

One universal agreement among humans seems to be that giant transforming robots are exceptionally impressive. There’s nothing quite as jaw-dropping as observing a sleek mechanical figure morphing its shape into a vehicle or powerful weapon (or other object). This spectacle is particularly prevalent in anime, where transforming robots are as abundant as fish in the sea.

The roots of mechanical transformation date back further than many realize. It was in the 1970s that these transforming machines first made their debut on Japanese TV screens, long before series like Macross, Gundam, and Transformers graced our screens. With so many options available, it can be quite a task to pick out the cream of the crop.

8. Getter Robo

The OG Of Transforming Mecha Is Still Going Strong

First Appearance: Getter Robo (Anime)
Original Air Date: April 4, 1974 (Japan)

For those specializing in mecha anthropology, Getter Robo is often considered the progenitor of its kind. Although earlier robot anime like Astro Boy and Gigantor preceded him, Getter Robo stood out for his unique ability to morph into various forms and merge with others to create a super-mech. In the case of Getter Robo, it’s composed of three distinct vehicles, each piloted by a human. When combined, they form an elite combat unit that adapts to its surroundings for superior performance in battle.

Getter Robo is designed for aerial battles, while versions 2 and 3 are capable of ground and marine combat respectively. The distinctive look of this robot can be attributed to its creative team, Ken Ishikawa and Go Nagai. Elements from its story have left an indelible mark on series like Gundam and Neon Genesis Evangelion. Originating from a manga, the franchise continues to thrive in Japan, having been featured in numerous anime series and films.

7. Beast King GoLion aka Voltron: Defender of the Universe

This Absolute Unit Won’t Take It Lion Down

In the same vein as Macross transformed into Robotech and Diaclone morphed into Transformers, Beast King GoLion served as the foundation for what would later be known in the west as Voltron: Defender of the Universe. This timeless anime made its debut in the early ’80s, focusing on a group of five young adventurers who commanded their individual robotic lions. When combined, these units formed the colossal GoLion. Many fondly recall this show as their initial introduction to the captivating world of anime.

The series known as Beast King GoLion built upon the groundwork laid by Getter Robo. In this show, each individual GoLion unit possessed a unique look, and every pilot had a distinct personality. Despite their impressive fighting capabilities individually, they were virtually indomitable when they combined to form their ultimate form. This was due to the offensive prowess of GoLion, which boasted destructive claws, a mighty sword, and powerful energy blasts capable of swiftly defeating even the strongest adversaries.

6. Escaflowne

Succumb To The Magic

First Appearance: The Vision of Escaflowne (Tenkū no Escaflowne)
Original Air Date: April 2, 1996

In simple terms, “The Vision of Escaflowne” – created by Shoji Kawamori in the mid-90s – is a captivating blend of fantasy, romance, and epic combat sequences that has gained cult status. This narrative follows Hitomi Kanzaki, a typical high school student who gets whisked away to the conflict-ridden world of Gaea. In this realm, she encounters mystical beings, cutting-edge technology, and towering mecha, all elements that define the series.

In the series, Escaflowne is a potent artifact veiled in enigma and plays a crucial role throughout the storyline. Unlike other items on this list, it combines mystical and elemental properties. The armor resembling a dragon boasts a mighty energy sword and an ethereal shield. The magical essence within it allows it to launch catastrophic magical assaults once transformed into its dragon shape.

5. Garland (Megazone 23)

A Cyberpunk Masterpiece Has A Too-Cool Mecha

First Appearance: Megazone 23 (OVA)
Original Release Date: March 9, 1985

The mecha from the iconic cyberpunk anime “Megazone 23” called Garland. Released during the 80s, this groundbreaking work left a lasting impact on numerous subsequent productions. Distinctive among its peers due to its lifelike appearance, Garland is smaller and more agile than giant mechas like Getter Robo. It is built with a focus on human dimensions for speed and maneuverability.

The mecha is uncovered by main character Shougo Yahagi, a rebellious teenager who gets sucked into a massive digital conspiracy that could drastically alter his understanding of reality. Garland possesses two primary functions: Bike Mode, allowing swift travel through cityscapes; and Robot Mode, where it adopts a humanoid shape for battle. Its quick transformation capability lets it shift forms on a whim, while its advanced, futuristic style keeps it timelessly appealing.

4. Zeta Gundam

The Classic Series Gets Its Very Own Transformer

First Appearance: Mobile Suit Zeta Gundam
Original Air Date: March 2, 1985

The Gundam series hardly requires an introduction. Spanning generations, its narrative of a galactic war is a grand space opera that has given birth to numerous iconic anime titles and robots that are instantly recognizable in pop culture. The first TV series faced poor reception initially but found success with reruns, eventually becoming a cultural staple.

The Zeta Gundam stands out due to its exceptional mobility, which sets it apart as a transforming mecha suit. This trait aligns perfectly with the strategic elements prevalent in the series, where tactical thinking was equally significant as firepower. In its traditional robot combat form, it’s a formidable opponent. Furthermore, it leverages the Wave Rider transformation system, granting it an advantage in space battles by offering high-speed maneuverability and long-distance travel capabilities.

3. Gurren Lagann

Go Big Or Go Home

First Appearance: Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
Original Air Date: April 1, 2007 (Japan)

If you’re seeking intricate themes and understated storytelling, it might be best to pass on Gurren Lagann, known for its explosive style among contemporary mecha anime. The legendary titular robot is a fusion of Gurren and Lagann, symbolizing the power of self-assurance and perseverance through Spiritual Energy. What sets this mecha apart is its transformative nature; each iteration surpasses the one preceding it in grandeur.

In the anime Gurren Lagann, the primary mecha is initially a humanoid form capable of unleashing potent attacks like the Giga Deal Breaker. Throughout the series, it transforms and grows in size and power until it assumes its ultimate form: Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann, a colossal being as large as the universe, equipped with a drill that can penetrate entire galaxies. Though it may not take the top spot on this list, it certainly earns recognition for its cosmic might.

2. Optimus Prime

Roll Out With The Autobots’ Mighty Leader

First Appearance: The Transformers (Anime adaptation of Diaclone and Microman)
Original Air Date: September 17, 1984 (America)

Optimus Prime, arguably the most renowned shape-shifting robot globally (another creation by Shoji Kawamori), has left an indelible mark on various platforms such as the Transformers TV series and its blockbuster 1986 movie, comic books, manga, anime, video games, live-action adaptations, and even Lego. Whether it’s his original Generation 1 design or newer versions, Optimus Prime stands tall among the iconic visages of transforming mechanical giants.

Optimus Prime’s primary function as a truck allows him to travel quickly to wherever he needs to go. However, he can also swiftly transform into a robot, which enables him to engage in combat with the evil Decepticons. Although it wasn’t often shown on the TV series, his trailer has the ability to change form too, serving as a command center for other Autobots or providing weapons and supplies when needed.

1. VF-1 Valkyrie

An All-Time Icon

First Appearance: Super Dimension Fortress Macross
Original Air Date: October 3, 1982 (Japan)

Without a doubt, the VF-1 Valkyrie, a mecha designed by the legendary Shoji Kawamori for the groundbreaking anime series “Super Dimension Fortress Macross“, is undeniably one of the most renowned transforming robots in history. This iconic character not only played a significant role in boosting the popularity of anime within its homeland, Japan, but also paved the way for anime to gain traction in the West when it was later adapted into the “Robotech” series.

The Valkyrie is a powerful jet fighter designed by the United Nations to counterbalance the might of the Zentradi, an advanced alien species aiming to conquer Earth. Its design is reminiscent of real-world aircraft, particularly the F-14 Tomcat, but it boasts two additional forms. In Gerwalk Mode, it transforms into a hybrid plane-mech for enhanced agility, while Battroid Mode assumes a humanoid mecha shape to engage in close combat. With a design that remains impressive even today, the Valkyrie stands out as an enduring icon of greatness.

2025-02-13 13:36