Series Recommendation: RahXephon
Who am I? With blue and red blood?
But I must tune the world!
But I must tune the world!
Mecha and psychology is a tricky combination and few mecha series really nail both let alone one. The explosive potential of gigantic entities and the emotional depths of a human psyche is like two polar opposites. But if done well, it will bring about a relatable experience of inner conflict that manifest in the material world – where the mechs themselves act as the extension of the pilot – an outlet for their anger, their sorrow, and happiness.
People often cite Evangelion as the perfect combination of the two, but there’s another series that pull off the trick just fine. And it is RahXephon – a 26-episode series premiered in 2002. It contains hard-scifi elements combined with religious and mysticism aspect. Its starting premise and mecha design will surely hook you in, before captivating you with relatable and emphatic characters.
People often cite Evangelion as the perfect combination of the two, but there’s another series that pull off the trick just fine. And it is RahXephon – a 26-episode series premiered in 2002. It contains hard-scifi elements combined with religious and mysticism aspect. Its starting premise and mecha design will surely hook you in, before captivating you with relatable and emphatic characters.
+ Plot: RahXephon follows Ayato Kamina – a teenage boy who enjoy painting living in Tokyo. One day, as he was enjoying his day with friends, Tokyo was attacked and he encountered a woman named Haruka. She revealed to him that his world has been a complete lie and that he needed to leave. Ayato was confused and further distraught after finding out his mom might not be who he think she is. His world got thrown upside down, but the girl from his painting and also his classmate – Reika Mishima – led him to a giant egg. He awakened the giant god known as RahXephon and began to tear down the illusions that surrounded him, and brave a completely new world in a completely different time.
RahXephon has a lot of characters introduced in the first few characters, and many of them are shrouded in mystery with very brief background that was intentionally obscured to feed into Ayato’s apparent confusion. We as the audience can share Ayato’s feelings and go along with him as he discover truths about himself, his mom, the people in his life as well as the worlds that he lived in. Furthermore, each character struggles feel very…personal and relatable. The film shows that at the end of the day, we’re humans and we have instinct and emotions that might seem mundane, but it can lead to world-changing effects that can go in a different direction just with a small change. The character drama in RahXephon was very well done.
RahXephon has a lot of characters introduced in the first few characters, and many of them are shrouded in mystery with very brief background that was intentionally obscured to feed into Ayato’s apparent confusion. We as the audience can share Ayato’s feelings and go along with him as he discover truths about himself, his mom, the people in his life as well as the worlds that he lived in. Furthermore, each character struggles feel very…personal and relatable. The film shows that at the end of the day, we’re humans and we have instinct and emotions that might seem mundane, but it can lead to world-changing effects that can go in a different direction just with a small change. The character drama in RahXephon was very well done.
+ Animation: RahXephon is a beautifully animated series. But first, it should be pointed out that RahXephon does not have a lot of mecha action. Most of the screentime of RahXephon is it absolutely demolishing the opposition with ease. The fights between RahXephon and its enemies are similar to how the Evas go against the Angels. It signifies a challenge (mentally or physically) that the pilot – in this case, Ayato – has to overcome. On the other hand, the character animation and imagery in this series is gorgeous. If you can watch the BD version, you will see that there are many sakugas and beautiful frames in the anime.
+ Mecha Design: RahXephon’s design are actually quite…biblical. The RahXephon itself is humanoid, basically the same as a human but with a stylized hoof-feet. But the head of the RahXephon having wings like an angel is quite smart. Furthermore, in its “closed’ state, the RahXephon’s eyes become like that of a beast, which obviously carries symbolism that you will understand when you watch the movie. The series’ use of music-related theme also play into RahXephon’s design.
Aside from that, the Dolems (enemy)’ designs are pretty much super arbitrary and abnormal just like the Angels in Eva. They all have music-related names, weird shapes and bizarre abilities.
+ Mecha Design: RahXephon’s design are actually quite…biblical. The RahXephon itself is humanoid, basically the same as a human but with a stylized hoof-feet. But the head of the RahXephon having wings like an angel is quite smart. Furthermore, in its “closed’ state, the RahXephon’s eyes become like that of a beast, which obviously carries symbolism that you will understand when you watch the movie. The series’ use of music-related theme also play into RahXephon’s design.
Aside from that, the Dolems (enemy)’ designs are pretty much super arbitrary and abnormal just like the Angels in Eva. They all have music-related names, weird shapes and bizarre abilities.
+ Music: Of course, for a mysterious music-related series with ancient religious undertone with uber character drama and conflicts, the music also differs from your usual cheery, genki pop/rock/ballad style that mecha usually has. The OP song is not sad, but rather filled with emotion but still has a tinge of sadness about uncertainty and destiny. The ending is a pretty somber song with some obscure lyrics that definitely works as your sleeping tune.
+ Conclusion: It may sound ironic, but RahXephon is definitely a mecha series that focus on the characters along with their development. But that’s not to say the giant robot bits aren’t important. The RahXephon acts as a resolution and the key to unlock certain plot elements. But the main enemy in the series aren’t other giants, but rather the characters themselves. RahXephon is pretty much a dramatic telenovela with heartwarming moments, intriguing premise, mysterious undertones and some very, very unexpected twists. So if you’re looking for a well-done Evangelion that actually has great characterization and looks amazing, check this series out.
+ Conclusion: It may sound ironic, but RahXephon is definitely a mecha series that focus on the characters along with their development. But that’s not to say the giant robot bits aren’t important. The RahXephon acts as a resolution and the key to unlock certain plot elements. But the main enemy in the series aren’t other giants, but rather the characters themselves. RahXephon is pretty much a dramatic telenovela with heartwarming moments, intriguing premise, mysterious undertones and some very, very unexpected twists. So if you’re looking for a well-done Evangelion that actually has great characterization and looks amazing, check this series out.
Check out more recommendations:
A chance to see the A.D Police from Bubblegum Crisis in honorable action. Two detectives take on cases of rampage Boomers, unraveling a sinister plot that can change the world.
An apocalyptic tale of burning sand and monsters. A young man set out for vengeance, acquiring the usual hot chick and robot buddy on the way.
A refreshing tale about how the best of friends became sworn rivals. A vibrant, well animated movie where characters shine through their own merits, and bring a new wind to the franchise.
The fruit of collaboration with Japan Air Self-Defense Force, the air combat scenes of this anime is what set it apart
Despite often being overlooked by newer fans, After War Gundam X is a must watch for any Gundam lovers.
Passion makes satisfaction. A group of student show what they can accomplish with a mecha short film that leaves you desperately wanting more!
A seemingly impossible task of building Mazinger Z hangar in real life. A ragtag team of a planning company assembled the Fantasy Division to turn fiction into reality.
A light-hearted series that turned into intense space opera. The Girl Who Leapt Through Space leaps through many genre to deliver a unique experience and turn everyone’s expectation upside down.
A desolate planet now submerged in liquid. A totally unique and fresh mecha series where all the robots are underwater. Oh and there’s also a talking whale.
A love story that spans through 12000 years. The war between Angels and humans fueled by passionate emotions. Shoji Kawamori shows us why he’s the master of the sky.
What happens if we mix Mahou Shoujo, Mecha and Battle Royale into one? We get Granbelm – an emotional story about the lives of young girls entangled in an ancient war.
In the city of smoke and steam, a young kid works as a detective alongside his nurse and butler to protect the peace. An old classic for fans of the steampunk style.
The 2nd season of the lovely Mass-Produced Riko series. Join Riko and co as they embark on an all new venture, while drawing interesting lesson from building plastic models.
The long-awaited continuation of the mecha isekai of pain. Season 2 of Muv-Luv Alternative is definitely trying to woo you by slamming intense scenes at you – but is it worth it?
One of the most difficult to adapt Mecha series, Muv-Luv Alternative anime started off with a questionable season, but you should still check it out.
A remake of another Tatsunoko hero. The Space Knight returns with a completely new story, design and brings us on an emotional journey of a tragic hero.
The continuation of the hot-blooded saga, this time filled with emotional drama and even more badass action. A great video game adaptation but not without flaws.
The long awaited legend’s return that satisfy all mecha fan’s longing for a good game. Armored Core 6: Fires of Rubicon is an experience you have to play to believe.
Universes collide as the cast of Gridman and Dynazenon is caught in a dimensional anomaly. But what’s more troubled is Yuuta – who has to become Gridman again with a troubled heart.
When you talk about the most badass mecha, you have to mention SRW OG and Masami Obari. And when these two combine, you get the best SRW anime of all time.
A unique series where the true pacifism versus justice. A bold premise and interesting gimmick make Planet With a very selective series in terms of audience – but it definitely deserves a chance.
From the studio that created Buddy Complex and Valvrave, Cross Ange is another Sunrise’s original that challenges the limit of its audience once more .
What will you do if you’re teleported to a time with giant grotesque monsters? For teenage student Daisuke Doujima, it’s a perfect chance for him to become a hero, and a saviour. But can he?
After 2 lukewarm series, Gundam Build rose to form again with Re:Rise. A story with deep characterization for a diverse and likeable cast and awesome Obari action.
Time to go digital! Build series is going full SAO and virtual with Build Divers – a light-hearted series and fun to enjoy without the need to complicate things.
Following GBF, Sunrise wanted to capture the magic with TRY. However, they fell just short of greatness but still create a series with amazing Gunpla battles.
A hobby turned combat sport. Sunrise’s effort to attract new fans turned into a compelling series with gorgeous battles featuring iconic MS from the franchise.
The first animated Build series, Beginning G opened up new venues and excitement for the hobby, with light-hearted yet intense traditional MS battle.
Do you want a Gundam series with a brighter tone but still has banger battles? Then Metal Armor Dragonar is a perfect series for you!
A series about building regular model kit, and using them to find inspiration in life. A very uplifting and chill series for mecha fans to change their perspective on their hobby.
The sequel to SEED – a series that brought Gundam on top of the radar. Destiny is a sequel that earned both the intense love and hate within the fandoms.
An anime adaptation of a sci-fi novel with the same name, Yakitori really stir up the scene with its unusual storytelling and animation style. However, the characters really hold the series up.
A Fafner novel written by Tow Ubutaka – the person who understand Fafner the most. Explore Kazuki’s POV and his relationship in a way you’ve never seen before.
A new Gundam for a new era. Gundam Seed is one of the most popular modern Gundam series that has fans all around the world. And it also received much love from Sunrise as well.
A love letter to commemorate the pioneer of the Mecha genre, Mazinger Z Infinity remind us of the conviction and justice that the Iron Castle had, is, and will stand for.
A badass and action-packed super robot series with an age-gap marriage between the two main characters. A hearth-throbbing and passionate tale about love and perseverance.
A new story of the boy who awoken a machine. Casshern Sins follow a conflicting young man in a world where life seems meaningless, yet everyone yearn for it anyway.
Just when things have calmed down, the Gear Users once again face an apocalyptic threat from a mysterious high order. This put Hibiki and her friends at risk once more.
New threats emerged to threaten the world. But new allies also appear to bring the Gear’s songs to a new level. A new battle await the girls!
Mahou Shoujo x Tokusatsu combined with plenty of mecha references, Symphogear bring us an audio and visual experience that is just the beginning. of a great franchise.
A new nation, a new story, a new battlefield. The reborn Eighty Six must choose between a life of peace or death. Will the Reaper be able to move on?
The depressing, gripping yet hopeful world of Eighty Six brought to life with A-1’s adaptation. The vision of Asato receives a depiction so emotional like no others.
A fun dogfight experience with some mecha combat thrown into the mix, Strike Suit Zero scratches some of that Macross action game that PC gamer has been wanting.
With his life completely smashed apart and turned upside down, teenage boy Ayato had to navigate a new world while being the key to control the winged giant RahXephon.
Not just your usual 70s Super Robot, Zambot 3 is more than just a battle between good and evil, but also about endurance, perseverance and the unyielding heart to do what’s right.
Expanding upon the original work of Yokoyama-sensei, GR: The Day The Earth Stood Still introduces a world where the supernatural and super-technology co-exist. And in the midst of that is a Giant Robo.
If you fancy beautiful girls cladded in sleek power armor fighting cyborg crimes, then Bubblegum Crisis is the choice for you, with amazing 90s cyberpunk dystopia atmosphere!
The Cyber Beast Force may have disbanded, but their burning hearts are still raging. Dancouga combines once again to fight an unexpected enemy. Is it human, or something else much more sinister?
Suit up! It’s time for some Oni hunting! An anime tribute to the Tokusatsu genre, Shikizakura show us the power of hope, willpower and compassion to overcome any darkness.
The bullet-train robot is back! Two young kids take on a new threat to protect the world. Shinkalion Z takes off after its predecessor and set itself apart from other Takara series.
