Neon Genesis Evangelion brought together elements of mecha combat, alien invasion, power struggles, and existential questions about the nature of humanity and mortality, creating a unique and impactful anime experience.
Its influence extends beyond the anime world, leaving a lasting impact on mainstream media. Since its initial release in 1995, Neon Genesis Evangelion has spawned various films and spin-offs, further expanding its universe.
If you’re a fan of Neon Genesis Evangelion and looking for similar anime recommendations, here are some titles you might enjoy:
1. Top wo Norae! Gunbusters!
- Episodes: 6
- Genre: Action, Drama, Mecha
- Studios: Gainax
Gunbuster, an anime created by Hideaki Anno a decade before his renowned work Neon Genesis Evangelion, presents a distinct storyline. Breaking away from the norm, Gunbuster features a female protagonist who takes on the role of a mecha pilot.
The story is set in 2023 when the main character Noriko attends a training school to master the art of piloting mechas. During this time, Earth faces imminent danger from an invasion by extraterrestrial beings from a distant universe.
Like Neon Genesis Evangelion, Gunbuster explores the internal struggles its main character faces. Noriko must confront her challenges while simultaneously operating the mecha to protect and save Earth.
2. Serial Experiments Lain
- Episode: 13
- Genres: Drama, Mystery, Psychological, Sci-Fi
- Studio: Triangle Staff
“Serial Experiments Lain” is a thought-provoking anime that explores into psychological and philosophical exploration. The story revolves around Lain, a seemingly ordinary girl entangled in a complex web of virtual reality, identity, and the blurred boundaries between the digital world and reality.
Like Neon Genesis Evangelion, “Serial Experiments Lain” explores into deep themes and addresses existential questions. It explores the nature of consciousness, the impact of technology on society, and the intricate connections between individuals in the digital age. The anime provides a surreal and introspective journey as Lain navigates through layers of reality and discovers her own identity.
3. Ao no 6-gou (Blue Submarine No. 6)
- Episode: 4
- Genres: Action, Adventure, Mecha, Sci-fi
- Studio: Gonzo
In the “Blue Submarine No. 6” world, a renowned scientist named Zorndyke has created a powerful and sentient creature that resides in the depths of the sea. This creature has developed a strong desire to eradicate humanity, as Zorndyke believes it’s time for humans to be relieved of their control over the planet.
Now, the fate of mankind hangs in the balance, relying on the courageous crew of Blue Submarine No. 6 and their allied fleet. They must end Zorndyke’s madness and confront his creation head-on. The stakes are high as they engage in an epic battle against the destructive forces that threaten humanity’s existence.
“Blue Submarine No. 6” offers an action-packed, gripping storyline filled with intense confrontations and profound moral dilemmas. It explores themes of humanity’s relationship with the natural world and the consequences of unchecked ambition. This thrilling anime will keep you on the edge of your seat as you witness the struggle to save humanity from impending doom.
4. Ergo Proxies
- Episode: 23
- Genres: Mystery, Psychological, Sci-Fi
- Studio: Manglobes
Both have an apocalyptic feel and humanity’s struggle to survive. In Evangelion, some Angels force humans to fight, while in Ergo Proxies, there is a very mysterious “Proxy.”
Overall both are very heavy on our minds, suitable for connoisseurs of mindfuck series. We also see the protagonist go through a psychological battle against their past, present, and future.
5. Eureka Seven
- Episodes: 50
- Genre: Action, Drama, Mecha
- Studios: Bones
“Renton Thurston dreams of leaving his mundane life behind and embarking on an exciting adventure with the paramilitary group known as Gekkostate. However, his aspirations clash with his grandfather’s desire for Renton to follow in his footsteps and become a mechanic.
Everything turns thrilling when an unidentified object crashes into Renton’s garage, revealing itself to be the incredible Nirvash type zero. To Renton’s surprise, the pilot of this extraordinary machine is a young girl named Eureka, who happens to be a member of Gekkostate. Eureka seeks Renton’s assistance in tuning up the Nirvash.
This unexpected encounter becomes the catalyst for Renton’s incredible journey alongside Gekkostate. With Eureka as his co-pilot aboard the powerful Nirvash, Renton’s life takes an exhilarating twist. Their shared experiences and deepening connections form the foundation of a captivating romance that unfolds amidst their thrilling escapades.
“Renton and Eureka’s story is a personal favorite of mine, blending action, adventure, and romance in a truly captivating way. Join them on their extraordinary journey as they navigate the complexities of their world, face formidable challenges, and discover the power of love and companionship.”
6. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
- Episodes: 27
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Mecha
- Studios: Gainax
Created by seasoned animators who previously worked on Neon Genesis Evangelion, Gurren Lagann shares a common thread of humanity’s salvation with a comedic twist. In many ways, Gurren Lagann can be seen as the opposite of Evangelion.
At first glance, Gurren Lagann may appear to be your typical mecha anime, featuring the young protagonist Simon and his friend Kamina stumbling upon an ancient mecha. However, the story quickly veers off the beaten path, becoming anything but ordinary. It is an eccentric and captivating tale that takes Simon and Kamina on a journey to discover the world beyond the surface and uncover an unexpected conflict between humans and enigmatic beings.
Gurren Lagann showcases exhilarating mecha battles, explores into deeper themes, and surprises its viewers with unexpected twists and turns. Prepare to be swept away by the unique and enthralling narrative that awaits in this extraordinary anime.
7. Bokura no
- Episodes: 24
- Genre: Drama, Mecha, Psychological, Sci-fi, Seinen
- Studios: Gonzo
During their summer camp escapade, 15 kids—8 boys and 7 girls—stumble upon an intriguing cave near the sea. They make a startling discovery: a room filled with computers and a peculiar man named Kokopelli.
Kokopelli unveils his ambitious project—a game centered around colossal robots safeguarding Earth from 15 impending alien invasions. Intrigued by the prospect of an exhilarating adventure, he persuades each child to sign a contract, promising them a thrilling experience like no other.
Little did they know that their journey would take a dark and unsettling turn once the contracts were sealed. In the world of Bokurano, the kids find themselves compelled to take turns piloting the mighty robot Zearth, facing the daunting task of defeating each formidable enemy that crosses their path.
What began as an innocent and exciting endeavor soon became a harrowing ordeal, testing the limits of their courage and resilience. Bokurano explores into the profound struggles and sacrifices these young heroes must endure as they confront the trials and tribulations of a destiny they never expected.
8. Gundam 00
- Episodes: 25 (Season 1), 25 (Season 2)
- Genre: Action, Drama, Mecha, Sci-fi
- Studios: Sunrise
Regarding mecha anime, it’s hard not to mention the iconic Gundam series. However, if you find yourself overwhelmed by the extensive timeline of Gundam and unsure where to start, Mobile Suit Gundam 00 is the perfect recommendation.
In a world marred by constant conflicts and internal struggles over the control of solar energy, a paramilitary organization emerges. Calling themselves “Celestial Beings,” their mission is to end all wars through armed intervention, utilizing enigmatic and highly advanced Mobile Suits called Gundams.
Mobile Suit Gundam 00 follows the journey of Celestial Being, focusing on the Gundam Meisters—Setsuna F. Seiei, Lockon Stratos, Allelujah Haptism, and Tieria Erde. Together, they find themselves embroiled in intense battles between three powerful factions, all pursuing their goal to reshape the world.
Similar to Evangelion, Gundam 00 stands as an outstanding series, boasting compelling characters, a captivating storyline, and the thrilling concept of mechas at its core. It’s a remarkable blend of action, drama, and thought-provoking themes that will surely leave a lasting impression.
9. Aldnoah. Zero
- Episode: 12 (S01), 12 (S02)
- Genres: Action, Drama, Mecha, Psychological, Sci-Fi
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
A monumental discovery takes place in a world where a hyper gate on the Moon enables humanity to teleport to Mars. Those who ventured to settle on Mars encountered an astonishingly advanced technology called Aldnoah. However, the harmony between Earth and Mars is shattered when the Martians declare war against their terrestrial counterparts.
Amidst this turbulent backdrop, a high school student named Inaho Kaizuka becomes an unwilling witness to the calculated assassination of Princess Asseylum Vers Allusia, who had journeyed to Earth with hopes of fostering better relations between her empire and homeland. Confronted with an overwhelming enemy, Inaho and their comrades find themselves thrust into the heart of a conflict against the mighty Vers Empire, striving to end the war.
This thrilling tale revolves around Inaho’s courageous journey, where they must navigate treacherous battles and unexpected twists. Alongside their loyal friends, Inaho must utilize their strategic prowess and unwavering determination to challenge the might of the Vers Empire and restore peace to both Earth and Mars.
10. Shingeki no Kyoujin (Attack on Titan)
- Episodes: 25 (S01), 12 (S02), 22 (S03), Finale Season
- Genre: Action, Fantasy, Military, Mystery, Drama, Shounen
- Studios: Wit, MAPPA
It can be said that Attack on Titan is a subterranean mecha genre, with giant robots being analogous to supersized humanoid biological weapons.
Both series revolve around humanity trying to fight against a powerful and mysterious enemy, and young people are forced to fight back. Tragic events are a common occurrence in both of these anime series.
11. Darling in the FranXX
- Episode: 24
- Genres: Action, Drama, Mecha, Romance, Sci-Fi
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
While the main characters in these two series may share some similarities, the world they inhabit is where the true parallels lie. Both narratives depict a world where humanity faces relentless assaults from monstrous alien creatures. Young individuals are trained to operate colossal mechas to combat these threats, serving as humanity’s last line of defense.
In these tales, a female lead assumes a vital role, playing a significant part in the protagonist’s journey of cooperation and emotional turmoil. Mental struggles and depression profoundly shape the protagonist’s experiences, adding depth and complexity to their character development.
12. 86 Eighty-six
- Episode: 11
- Genres: Action, Drama, Mecha, Psychological, Sci-Fi
- Studio: A-1 Pictures
In the eyes of the Republic of San Magnolia, they proudly claimed that their war against the Giadian Empire had not resulted in any casualties. However, this was nothing more than propaganda to maintain a certain image. The truth was that behind this war existed a group of 86 individuals who were compelled to fight against the Empire’s autonomous Legion under the command of Handlers.
Vladilena Milizé enters the picture as she is assigned to take over as the new Handler for Spearhead’s squadron, replacing the previous one. She faces the challenge of advocating for the 86 marginalized individuals treated with discrimination by their peers. Among them, Shinei Nouzen stands as the captain of the Spearhead squadron, leading them through the trials and tribulations of their daunting mission.
