With the release of the newest anime within this subgenre, Knight’s And Magic, mecha isekai has surged back into popularity among anime fans. A genre that once flourished in the 90s but had faded from the limelight for decades, is yet again rekindling.

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In mecha isekai, protagonists are thrust into different dimensions, universes, or entirely new and perilous places. There, they must not only fight for their own survival but also take on the monumental task of protecting their newfound homes or even the entire world. They achieve all their goals with the assistance of their towering mecha machines.

Updated by Stefania Ikeda-Stavridi on the 13th of November 2023: Due to the remarkable surge in popularity of the subgenre, a selection of both old and new isekai anime featuring mecha has been added to our updated list. We have also included more relevant information for past entries.

15 Dual! Parallel Trouble Adventure

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.08

Why Watch Dual! Parallel Trouble Adventure?

• Evangelion But With A Relatable Protagonist
• Balance Between Humor And Serious Moments

Dual! Parallel Trouble Adventure is a 1999 mecha anime that deserves a reboot. The series follows Kazuki Yotsuga, a high school student thrust into a parallel world embroiled in a war between the Earth Defense Force and the Rara Army. What sets Dual apart is its resemblance to Neon Genesis Evangelion in some aspects, offering a similar blend of mecha battles and psychological elements.

However, unlike the often polarizing protagonist of Evangelion, Kazuki Yotsuga is a much more likable character, making it easier for viewers to connect with the story. Nevertheless, Dual may not be everyone’s cup of tea, as it incorporates comedic elements and follows a harem route, which might not appeal to all audiences.

14 NG Knight Ramune & 40

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.36

Why Watch NG Knight Ramune & 40?

• Quirky Characters And Vibrant Animation
• Suitable For All Ages

NG Knight Ramune & 40 is a mecha anime series that originally aired in 1991. The series is known for its playful take on the mecha genre and follows a boy named Lamune, who stumbles upon a powerful mecha suit and becomes the hero in a game-like world.

He battles various foes and forms alliances with other characters, often in a lighthearted and humorous manner. NG Knight Lamune & 40 stands out for its whimsical approach to mecha, offering viewers a fun break from the usual tragic mecha stories. However, this family-friendly anime may lack the level of action and drama that fans of mecha have come to expect.

13 Linebarrels Of Iron

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 6.9

Why Watch Linebarrels of Iron?

• Unpredictable Plot Twists
• Complex Character Relationships And Growth

Linebarrels of Iron, a 2008 mecha anime series, offers a gripping narrative filled with intense mecha battles and character-driven storytelling. The story follows Kouichi Hayase, a high school student who is unexpectedly resurrected by a mysterious organization and granted the ability to pilot a formidable mecha suit, the Linebarrel.

This newfound power thrusts him into a world of conflict, where he faces off against other mecha pilots and confronts a global conspiracy. The series delves deep into the moral dilemmas and personal growth of its characters, particularly Kouichi, as he grapples with the responsibilities and consequences of his powers. The complex character dynamics and storytelling alone easily make this one of the most memorable mecha anime to date.

12 Re: Creators

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.55

Why Watch Re:Creators?

• Thought-provoking Exploration Of Creativity
• Intense Battles With Stunning Animation

Re:Creators presents a fresh take on the isekai and mecha genres. Instead of the traditional narrative where the protagonist is transported to a fantastical world, the anime flips the concept on its head, bringing fictional characters from various media into the real world.

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This intriguing premise sets the stage for an exploration of the relationship between creators and their creations, which also include mecha suits. Re: Creators offers a narrative that delves deep into questions of identity, purpose, and the ethical implications of being a god-like figure in the realm of fiction. It also offers stunningly animated action scenes, that make it more than worth it watching.

11 Granbelm

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 6.67

Why Watch Granbelm?

• Visually Stunning Animation
• Strong Character Development Arcs

Granbelm is a visually stunning series that combines elements of isekai, mecha, and magical girl anime. The story follows an ordinary high school girl, Mangetsu Kohinata, who discovers unexpectedly the hidden world of Granbelm.

In this realm, magical girls pilot powerful Armanox mechas in intense battles to claim the title of the world’s ruler. The narrative deftly combines intricate mecha fights with personal struggles and character growth, creating a story that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats while also delving into the emotional and psychological facets of the magical girls’ journey.

10 Wings Of Rean

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 5.61

Why Watch Wings of Rean?

• Epic Mecha Battles And Drama
• Engaging Exploration Of War’s Impact

Originally a light novel in the 1980s, Wings of Rean made a leap into the world of anime in the late 2000s, captivating audiences with its unique storyline. The narrative unfolds with the journey of Suzuki, a young Japanese man on the run from the clutches of the U.S. Army.

His escape takes an unexpected turn when he tumbles into the sea, only to encounter Lyx, a princess hailing from a wholly different world. Lyx’s mission on Earth is to enlist Suzuki’s aid, setting the stage for a thrilling adventure filled with mecha battles and encounters with holy warriors. While it didn’t receive the strongest MAL score when compared to other mecha anime, its unique storyline and mecha battles really set it apart.

9 Aura Battler Dunbine

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.05

Why Watch Aura Battler Dunbine?

• Intriguing Fantasy World And Lore
• Dark And Intense Themes

If your anime tastes lean toward isekai medieval worlds, complete with magic, dragons, and more, then Aura Battler Dunbine is an absolute must-watch. This gripping series embarks on a journey with a young motocross enthusiast who finds himself thrust into another world while attempting a daring stunt.

In this unfamiliar land, Show becomes an unwitting participant in a civil war, assuming the role of an Aura Battler pilot, essentially a mecha operator, with the daunting task of bringing an end to the conflict. The anime offers intriguing plot twists, and a descent into darker, more intense themes as the series approaches its conclusion.

8 Gargantia On The Verdurous Planet

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.45

Why Watch Gargantia On The Verdurous Planet?

• Unique Blend Of Mecha And Sci-Fi
• Great Character Development

Gargantia On The Verdurous Planet, while not strictly fitting into the conventional isekai anime category, stands out as a compelling series with great potential for world-building. The narrative centers around Leo, a skilled soldier and mecha pilot, who finds himself unexpectedly stranded on Earth in a distant future where humanity has abandoned the planet.

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The anime’s strength lies in its portrayal of Leo’s journey from a trained killing machine to someone learning how to be human, fostering trust in those around him. The character development of Leo adds a layer of depth to the narrative, making it engaging for viewers. However, the bittersweet aspect of the show is that it only spans one season, leaving fans craving more of Leo’s story.

7 Mashin Hero Wataru

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.06

​​​​​​​Why Watch Mashin Hero Wataru?

• Family-Friendly Mecha
• Light-hearted Yet Engaging Story

​​​​​​​If you’re on the lookout for an isekai mecha anime that’s suitable for viewers of all ages, Mashin Hero Wataru should be at the top of your list for a delightful family watch. This series invites you to join the journey of Wataru Ikusabe, a 9-year-old boy unexpectedly summoned to a fantastical realm.

In this enchanting world, a mythical dragon reveals to him his destined role as the hero tasked with vanquishing evil and saving the land. Armed with his trusty mecha, Wataru valiantly takes on formidable foes in battles that, while not as grandiose as those in some other anime, still offer plenty of engaging entertainment.

6 Super Dimension Century Orguss

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 6.53

​​​​​​​Why Watch Super Dimension Century Orguss?

• Early Pioneer Of Isekai Anime That Still Holds Up
• Beautiful Hand-Drawn Animation

Super Dimension Century Orguss is a captivating mecha anime presented by Studio Nue, known for their work on Armored Core. The story follows two skilled fighter pilots on a mission to plant a bomb in enemy territory. Pilot Katsuragi finds himself inexplicably transported far into the future, becoming the target of unknown forces. His trusty mecha becomes his only hope on this perilous journey through time.

Considered an early pioneer of the isekai anime genre, Orguss has influenced subsequent anime with its tropes. Despite criticism for feeling rushed in the latter episodes, it remains a significant contributor to the isekai landscape. Fans of hand-drawn anime and those seeking a nostalgic journey will appreciate Orguss for its captivating narrative and artistry of hand-drawn animation.

5 Trapped In A Dating Sim: The World Of Otome Games Is Tough For Mods

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.34

​​​​​​​Why Watch Trapped In A Dating Sim?

• Unique Mix Of Isekai, Mecha, And A Dating Sim
• Delightful Parody With Self-Insert

In Trapped In A Dating Sim, the protagonist Leon Fou Bartfort is not whisked away to a typical fantasy realm but rather finds himself ensnared within the digital confines of an otome game. Assuming the role of an NPC modder, he embarks on a journey through the complexities of virtual romance. However, the plot takes an unforeseen twist as mecha battles are introduced, weaving love and high-stakes combat into a captivating fusion that sets this isekai anime apart from the rest.

Trapped In A Dating Sim breaks away from traditional mecha anime themes by mixing different genres, similar to Knights And Magic. The relatable protagonist, Leon, further enhances the viewing experience by acting in ways that are unheard of for a hero, albeit still humane. This is not a series for intricate plot enthusiasts, but rather a pleasant watch for parody and non-serious anime fans.

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4 Magic Knight Rayearth

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.46

​​​​​​​Why Watch Magic Knight Rayearth?

• Strong Female Leads With Character Development
• Bold Mix Of Isekai, Mecha, And Magical Girl Genres

​​​​​​​Magic Knight Rayearth seamlessly weaves together elements of isekai, mecha, and magical girl genres to craft a captivating narrative. The story centers around three ordinary high school girls – Hikaru, Umi, and Fuu – who find themselves unexpectedly transported from modern-day Tokyo to the mystical realm of Cephiro.

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What sets the anime apart is the gradual unveiling of its characters, allowing viewers to intimately know their dreams, fears, and cheer for their journeys. The seamless integration of genres and nuanced character development makes Magic Knight Rayearth a timeless gem that holds up to this day.

3 Tenchi Muyo! War On Geminar

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.74

​​​​​​​Why Watch Tenchi Muyo! War On Geminar?

• Expansive Fantasy World-Building
• Well-Developed Characters

Tenchi Muyo! War On Geminar is a compelling isekai anime that masterfully blends mecha battles with elements of a harem comedy. The series revolves around Kenshi Masaki, who finds himself transported to the fantasy world of Geminar. There, he becomes embroiled in a conflict that requires him to pilot a powerful mecha suit to protect the realm from impending doom.

Tenchi Muyo! deserves its high MAL rank due to its ability to surpass initial stereotypes. While starting conventionally, it quickly reveals a depth beyond expectations, featuring an overpowered protagonist with a kind heart, unhesitant to protect his loved ones. The art adds to its appeal, not only portraying characters beautifully but also breathing life into mecha and environments.

Despite the harem element, romance doesn’t dominate the narrative, allowing the mecha battles and overarching story to take center stage. This balance, coupled with Kenshi’s character dynamics, makes Tenchi Muyo! War On Geminar a compelling watch.

2 Knight’s And Magic

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.08

​​​​​​​Why Watch Knight’s And Magic?

• Rekindled The Fascination With Isekai Mecha
• Creative World-Building And Mecha Mechanics

Knight’s And Magic deserves its high ranking on MAL and this list despite a lower score compared to other entries on this list, as it revitalizes the genre mix of isekai and mecha. It brilliantly rekindles the fascination with protagonists transported to fantastical worlds equipped with formidable mecha suits. In this series, the protagonist is an otaku whose obsession with mecha figurines and models becomes a surreal reality.

The anime introduces a world teeming with potential, leaving fans yearning for more, especially with its unique twist of mecha suits powered by magic instead of technology. While the story is straightforward, the standout features lie in its beautiful animation, well-crafted character designs, and immersive sound, bringing mecha battles to life.

Knight’s And Magic offers a light-hearted watch after a tiring day, making it a great choice for those who appreciate mecha and seek a refreshing take on the genre. Its lower score doesn’t diminish its contribution to the genre’s appeal, standing out for its visual and auditory excellence in the mecha isekai landscape.

1 The Vision Of Escaflowne

My Anime List (MAL) Score – 7.67

​​​​​​​Why Watch The Vision Of Escaflowne?

• Masterful Blend Of Various Genres: Romance, Isekai, Mecha
• Immersive World With Complex Characters

The Vision Of Escaflowne indisputably claims its title as the best mecha isekai anime, showcasing unparalleled excellence in the genre. The series introduces us to Hitomi Kanzaki, a high school girl abruptly transported to the mystical world of Gaea. Here, she becomes embroiled in political intrigues and epic battles.

With the anime creators having played pivotal roles in crafting major sci-fi hits like Transformers and Ghost in the Shell, it comes as no surprise how the series shines as the apex of the mecha isekai genre. It elevates mecha battles to an art form, skillfully directed to immerse viewers in the heart of the action. The visual and auditory elements work in harmony, bringing these battles vividly to life.

What sets Escaflowne truly apart, though, are its diverse characters, each with distinct personalities and goals. The subtle love triangle adds a layer of romance without overshadowing the intense action sequences. Protagonists shine brightly, but the unforgettable villains stand as a testament to the series’ depth in character development.

NEXT: Strongest Isekai Anime Protagonists, Ranked