Overview of the Mecha Anime Landscape in 2024
- Mecha anime is witnessing a significant decline in popularity in 2024.
- This year, only 13 of the approximately 200 anime series aired fall within the mecha genre.
- Key titles resurfacing in the mecha arena include Shinkalion and Code Geass.
The mecha genre once dominated the anime scene, producing yearly fan-favorites laden with intricate plots and captivating narratives. Iconic series such as Evangelion, Gundam, Macross, and Eureka Seven have solidified the genre’s legacy. However, the meteoric rise of isekai series has led to a noticeable decline in mecha’s audience engagement and relevance.
In a shift towards rarity, Gundam stands as one of the few remaining titans in the mecha universe. Despite nearly 200 anime debuting across four seasons in 2024, only a handful—13 to be exact—embrace the mecha theme. Below we explore the top mecha anime offerings for the year.
7 Shinkalion: Change the World
A Family-Friendly Mecha Adventure
- Japanese Title: Shinkalion: Change the World
- MyAnimeList Score: 5.66
- Release Date: April 7, 2024
Shinkalion: Change the World marks the third season of this whimsical series revolving around adolescent heroes piloting transforming bullet train robots known as Shinkalions. They are tasked with combating enigmatic mechanical foes known as UNKNOWN. This installment highlights Taisei Onari, a high school student on a quest for his missing sister.
Despite its MyAnimeList rating falling below the 6.0 threshold—a score often dismissed for year-end accolades—the presence of Shinkalion in the mecha lineup is telling of the genre’s status in 2024. While certainly not a classic in the mecha canon, it offers an enjoyable experience for viewers.
6 Grendizer U
- Japanese Title: Grendizer U
- MyAnimeList Score: 5.91
- Release Date: July 6, 2024
Grendizer U follows Duke Fleed, the heir of Planet Fleed, who evacuates to Earth as Vega’s forces ravage his home. Now under the alias Daisuke Umon, Duke’s erstwhile tranquility is shattered as remnants of his past come back to threaten his new life. This reboot returns to the classic UFO Robot Grendizer, bringing with it updated visuals to invigorate a beloved franchise born in the 1970s.
5 Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance
A Gripping Perspective from the Zeon Frontlines
- Japanese Title: Kidou Senshi Gundam: Fukushuu no Requiem
- MyAnimeList Score: 6.45
- Release Date: October 17, 2024
Mobile Suit Gundam: Requiem for Vengeance thrusts viewers into the chaotic battlefield through the eyes of Zeon soldiers defending against Earth Federation counteroffensives. It centers on Zaku pilot Iria Solari, who embarks on a perilous mission within enemy lines to thwart Gundam EX attacks, delivering an impactful blend of action and emotional depth.
What distinguishes Requiem for Vengeance is its innovative viewpoint. Presenting the struggles of Zeon forces against the iconic Gundam technology offers refreshed storytelling within a well-established narrative framework.
4 Code Geass: Rozé of the Recapture
A Highly Anticipated Return to a Beloved Series
- Japanese Title: Code Geass: Dakkan no Rozé
- MyAnimeList Score: 6.57
- Release Date: June 21, 2024
Following the fall of the Holy Britannian Empire and the demise of Emperor Lelouch, regions previously under its control seek independence. Nevertheless, remnants of the Empire rally military strength to reclaim territories, including Hokkaido. Code Geass: Rozé of the Recapture follows Ash and his brother Rozé as they mount a rebellion against the Neo-Britannian forces, reviving a franchise that once stood shoulder to shoulder with titans like Gundam and Macross.
This series endeavors to rekindle the former glory of Code Geass, delivering an engaging narrative filled with thrilling battles and strategic intrigue, capturing the essence that once made the series great.
3 Synduality: Noir Part II
A Unique Expansion of an Innovative Concept
- Japanese Title: Synduality: Noir Part 2
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.07
- Release Date: January 9, 2024
Synduality: Noir Part II resumes the narrative immediately post the first season, following Kanata and his friends as they navigate their evolving dynamics sparked by the regained memories of their comrade, Noir. The emergence of a new antagonist group, Ideal, adds intensity to the narrative as Kanata strives to unveil mysteries surrounding their quests.
This franchise is part of Bandai Namco Entertainment’s expansive Synduality Project, a multi-media endeavor that aims to bridge various forms of storytelling within the mecha genre, demonstrating its potential to stand alone successfully.
2 Brave Bang Bravern!
An Amusing Take on Mecha Combat
- Yuuki Bakuhatsu Bang Bravern
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.56
- Release Date: January 11, 2024
In a world where humanity’s most advanced mecha, the Titanotostrider (TS), struggles against alien forces, JSDF pilot Ao Isami needs a new ally. Enter: Bravern, a sentient mecha. Together, they revolutionize Earth’s defense, signaling the beginning of Isami’s grueling trials.
The juxtaposition of realistic military elements with comical absurdity leads to a fresh viewing experience in Brave Bang Bravern!, where exaggerated situations meet mecha battles reminiscent of traditional tokusatsu series, creating a unique blend that captivates viewers.
1 Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom
A Resounding Addition to the Gundam Seed Legacy
- Japanese Title: Kidou Senshi Gundam SEED Freedom
- MyAnimeList Score: 7.64
- Release Date: January 26, 2024
Even as the battle between PLANT and the Earth Alliance concludes, turmoil persists throughout the cosmos—primarily instigated by the radical organization, Blue Cosmos, which targets Coordinators. In a bid to foster peace, factions unite under Compass, spearheaded by leaders like Lacus Clyne and Kira Yamato.
However, the introduction of a new nation, the Kingdom of Foundation, seeking to collaborate with Compass introduces new complexities, hinting at deeper plots at play. Mobile Suit Gundam SEED Freedom stands as a hallmark in the Gundam series, showcasing gripping narratives, poignant character arcs, and electrifying action sequences, thereby meeting fans’ high expectations.
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