There are numerous reasons why individuals enjoy 2000s mecha anime. For some, it is due to nostalgia, while others are drawn to the animation or the action-packed Mecha battles. Political intrigue is another factor that appeals to many, as mecha events often revolve around political themes.
Many people also appreciate Mecha’s portrayal of war and its negative impact on humanity. Mecha anime also incorporates elements of romance, comedy, and tragedy. Although mecha was a prevalent genre in the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, and 2000s, it is currently in decline, making those who still enjoy it considered veteran anime fans.
Some miss classic mecha anime after watching Mobile Suit Gundam Hathaway (2021). As a result, this article was created to present ten mecha anime from the 2000s decade worth watching.
Best Mecha Anime of the 2000s
1. Sakura Taisen (Sakura Wars)
- Episodes: 25
- Studios: Madhouse
The anime series Sakura Taisen originated from a popular video game franchise in Japan and was once broadcast on SCTV during the 2000s.
The story revolves around a group of girls who work together to fight against demons by piloting steampunk mechas known as Koubu, which are controlled through spiritual abilities. The anime is set in the Taisho period of the 1920s, and the main character, Sakura, travels to the capital to defend the city against the Black Sanctum Council’s demonic forces.
However, in addition to her mecha battles, Sakura has to perform on stage due to her Flower Division’s disguise as an art theatre. Overall, Sakura Taisen offers an intriguing blend of mecha combat, supernatural powers, and theatre that may appeal to anime enthusiasts.
2. Hoshi no Koe (Voices of the Distant Star)
- Episodes: 1
- Studio: CoMix Wave Films
Makoto Shinkai, the renowned anime director, is widely known for his work in romantic dramas. However, before creating hits such as “Your Name” and “Weathering With You,” he directed a mecha anime called “Hoshi no Koe” or “Voices of a Distant Star.”
The story is set in 2046 and revolves around Noboru Terao and Mikako Nagamine, close friends separated after an alien attack. Mikako is chosen for a UN military space mission, and despite being far apart, the two try to stay connected by emailing each other.
“Hoshi no Koe” portrays the couple’s struggles as they try to maintain their relationship despite being light-years away.
3. Diebuster (Gunbuster 2)
- Episodes: 6
- Studios: Gainax
Diebuster, a mecha anime series, is often referred to as a sequel to Gunbuster, a 1980s anime directed by Hideaki Anno. However, Diebuster differs entirely from its predecessor in storytelling and visual aesthetics.
The series follows the story of a girl named Nono, who dreams of becoming Topless, an elite space pilot. The world is at war with Space Monsters, and humanity is struggling against them, relying on the Topless to save the day. The anime is known for its quirky and surreal style, making it a unique addition to the mecha genre.
4. Fafner in the Azure
- Episodes: 25
- Studio: Xebec
Fafner in the Azure is a mecha anime from the 2000s that some could consider underrated.
Tatsumiyajima is a remote island in Japan where life is peaceful for the young people who attend school there. However, the reality is that the fate of humanity hangs in the balance, and Tatsumiyajima is the last line of defense against a mysterious enemy. Fafner, a mecha, fights to save humanity.
The same person in charge of Mobile Suit Gundam SEED and Destiny directs the animation. It is, therefore, natural to see similarities between the characters. For instance, the designs of the protagonists are similar, and it used to be difficult to tell them apart.
5. Full Metal Panic!
- Episodes: 24 (Season 1), 12 (Season 2)
- Studios: Gonzo (Season 1), Kyoto Animation (Season 2)
“Full Metal Panic!” is a mecha anime that initially did not air on TV 7 but later aired on ANTV. I particularly like the series’ second season, which Kyoto Animation produced.
The story revolves around Mithril, a private military organization that utilizes advanced weaponry and special forces to combat global terrorism and other threats to Earth’s peace.
One of Mithril’s sergeants, a seventeen-year-old named Sousuke Sagara, is tasked with protecting Kaname Chidori. To achieve this, Sousuke is ordered to blend in with Kaname’s middle school class and get as close to her as possible. However, Sousuke must also carry out missions for Mithril while keeping Kaname safe from harm.
6. Mobile Suit Gundam 00
- Episodes: 25 (Season 1), 25 (Season 2)
- Studios: Sunrise
When it comes to mecha anime, Mobile Suit Gundam is an inevitable mention. For the 2000s, Mobile Suit Gundam 00 stands out.
Set in the future where petroleum is obsolete, three main factions have formed after uniting different countries. Each sector possesses a solar generator that provides them with infinite energy.
However, conflicts arise due to the control of solar energy, leading to wars and internal strife. A paramilitary organization known as “Celestial Being” emerges amid this chaos.
Intending to end all wars through armed intervention using the technologically advanced Mobile Suit known as the Gundam, this 2000s mecha anime follows Celestial Being’s story.
It focuses on the Gundam Meisters, including Setsuna F. Seiei, Lockon Stratos, Allelujah Haptism, and Tieria Erde. In Mobile Suit Gundam 00, these four characters engage in catastrophic battles between three superpower factions to achieve their goal of changing the world.
7. Eureka Seven
- Episodes: 50
- Studios: Bones
Renton Thurston dreams of leaving his home and joining the paramilitary group called Gekkostate. He’s eager for adventure, but his grandfather wants him to follow in his footsteps as a mechanic.
Everything changes when an unknown object crashes into Renton’s garage: the Nirvash type zero. The pilot is a young girl named Eureka, a member of Gekkostate who needs a tune-up for the Nirvash.
This encounter sets Renton’s involvement with Gekkostate in motion as he becomes Eureka’s co-pilot on the Nirvash. Their relationship blossoms over time, making them one of my favorite romance stories in Mecha anime.
8. Tengen Toppa Gurren Lagann
- Episodes: 27
- Studios: Gainax
Gurren Lagann is a mecha anime that shares a similar level of craziness to Diebuster but in a completely different storytelling style than Neon Genesis Evangelion.
The story follows Simon and Kamina, two young men who grew up in an underground village, isolated from the dangers of the earth’s surface. While Simon is digging, one day, he discovers an ancient key that activates an incredible war machine called Lagann.
With the help of Yoko Littner, a red-haired girl with impressive weapons skills, Simon and Kamina use Lagann to repel an unexpected attack from the surface. They then embark on a journey to explore the wastelands above ground and join the fight against the “Beastmen,” who threaten humanity’s survival.
Alongside other survivors, they face numerous challenges and setbacks, but they remain steadfast in their mission to reclaim Earth and uncover the mystery of the galaxy. Simon and Kamina’s courageous journey and growing bond with Yoko make for a captivating and thrilling anime.
9. Code Geass: Hangyaku no Lelouch
- Episodes: 25 (Season 1), 25 (Season 2)
- Studios: Sunrise
The Holy Empire of Britannia has become a dominant military power by conquering and renaming Japan “Area 11”. Amid a conflict between Britannia and Japanese forces, Lelouch Lamperouge, a Britannian student, is rescued by a mysterious girl named CC, who grants him the “Power of Kings” known as Geass.
With his new power, Lelouch realizes the potential it holds and takes on the alter-ego of Zero, leading brutal attacks on Britannia to avenge his past. His journey is filled with danger, and he must navigate the complexities of his dual identity to succeed in his quest.
10. Macross Frontier
- Episodes: 25 (Season 1)
- Studio: Satellite
Macross is a well-known mecha franchise, much like Gundam. The story of Macross Frontier takes place after a devastating war against an alien race called the Zentradi. Humanity has fled to the galaxy’s center aboard a fleet of colonial ships, and life on Macross Frontier appears to be returning to normal.
In 2059, a young trainee mecha pilot named Alto Saotome and his colleagues are preparing to perform an accompaniment routine for the famous singer Sheryl Nome, who has come to Macross Frontier for a concert. During the concert, a new alien species called the Vajra suddenly appeared, breaking through the defensive barrier surrounding the ship and throwing the city into chaos.
As concertgoers evacuate, a young girl named Ranka Lee is left behind and becomes a target for the Vajra, but she is saved at the last moment by Alto. Following these events, the Strategic Military Services program notes Alto’s combat skills and recruits him to fight against the new alien threat.
