The mecha genre began with Tetsujin 28-go (1963), also known as Gigantor in the West. This series introduced the idea of giant robots controlled by humans, although the robot itself was remote-controlled rather than piloted from the inside. Tetsujin 28-go was popular among young audiences, and it set the stage for future mecha anime, focusing on the spectacle of powerful machines. While the early mecha shows were primarily aimed at children, they laid the foundation for what would soon become one of anime’s most influential genres.

The true turning point for mecha anime came with Mobile Suit Gundam in 1979. Created by Yoshiyuki Tomino, Gundam revolutionized the genre by introducing the concept of "real robot" anime. Instead of treating mecha as invincible, larger-than-life machines, Gundam portrayed mobile suits as military weapons subject to damage and technical limitations. Set in a space war between the Earth Federation and the Principality of Zeon, Gundam explored complex themes such as political conflict, human suffering, and the horrors of war. This more grounded and realistic approach not only attracted older audiences but also set the standard for future mecha series.

Following Gundam’s success, the 1980s saw an explosion of mecha anime, with franchises like Macross (1982) and Zeta Gundam (1985) expanding on the genre’s potential. Macross added a new dimension by blending mecha action with romance and music, particularly through the use of an idol singer whose songs played a crucial role in the storyline. This combination of emotional depth and high-stakes battles captured the hearts of viewers and helped popularize mecha anime worldwide. The 1980s also saw the rise of Patlabor, which took a more lighthearted, slice-of-life approach to the genre by focusing on a police unit piloting mecha to fight crime.

In the 1990s, Neon Genesis Evangelion took the mecha genre to new psychological and philosophical depths. Created by Hideaki Anno, Evangelion turned the genre on its head by focusing on the emotional and mental toll piloting giant robots had on its teenage protagonists. The series delved into complex themes such as depression, existentialism, and the human psyche, while also questioning the very nature of the mecha genre itself. Its bleak tone and deconstruction of traditional anime tropes left a lasting impact, influencing countless anime that followed and elevating mecha to a genre capable of profound, intellectual storytelling.

As the new millennium began, mecha anime continued to evolve with shows like Code Geass (2006) and Gurren Lagann (2007). Code Geass blended political intrigue with mecha action, telling the story of a young revolutionary who uses his intelligence and a powerful mech to topple an oppressive regime. Meanwhile, Gurren Lagann embraced a more over-the-top, larger-than-life approach, celebrating the spirit of rebellion and human perseverance through increasingly epic and exaggerated mecha battles. These series showed that mecha could be both deeply political and unapologetically fun, broadening the genre’s appeal.

Most recently, Darling in the Franxx (2018) offered a modern twist on the mecha genre. Co-produced by Studio Trigger and A-1 Pictures, Darling in the Franxx combined mecha battles with themes of adolescence, sexuality, and human relationships. While it paid homage to earlier series like Evangelion, the show focused heavily on the bond between the pilots, using the mecha as metaphors for personal growth and connection. Its mix of intense action, emotional drama, and controversial themes sparked significant debate within the anime community, demonstrating that mecha anime continues to evolve and push boundaries.

In conclusion, the history of mecha anime reflects the evolution of the medium itself. From the early days of Tetsujin 28-go to the genre-defining Gundam and the mind-bending Evangelion, mecha has grown from simple robot battles to a platform for exploring complex themes about society, war, and the human condition. Today’s mecha anime, such as Darling in the Franxx, continues to innovate while honoring the legacy of its predecessors, proving that the genre remains as relevant and exciting as ever.