Best mecha anime showdown: Neon Genesis Evangelion vs 86: Eighty-Six – which series redefines the genre?

In the ever-evolving world of anime, few genres are as layered and thematically rich as mecha. More than just giant robots clashing in battle, mecha anime often delves deep into war, politics, identity, and the human condition. Two series that have made waves in this genre—across vastly different generations—are Neon Genesis Evangelion and 86: Eighty-Six. One is a legendary classic that redefined the genre in the 1990s; the other, a modern standout that blends emotional storytelling with sharp political critique.

Neon Genesis Evangelion is often credited with revolutionizing anime as a whole. Created by Hideaki Anno and produced by Gainax, this series stripped down the mecha formula to its psychological and emotional roots. It centers on teenage pilots like Shinji Ikari, who are forced into piloting giant Evangelions to fight existential threats known as Angels. But underneath the sci-fi spectacle lies a deeply introspective exploration of trauma, identity, and human connection. Evangelion is as famous for its philosophical weight as it is for its unforgettable visuals and controversial ending.

On the other hand, 86: Eighty-Six is a newer entry, adapted from the light novel series by Asato Asato and animated by A-1 Pictures. This series tells the story of a war-torn world where unmanned drones are supposedly fighting other machines—but the truth is far darker. A segregated group known as the “Eighty-Six” pilots these drones, living and dying in silence outside the glittering walls of the Republic. The story follows Lena, a noblewoman military officer, and Shin, the stoic ace pilot, as their paths converge through the fog of war and systemic injustice.

So, which of these two mecha titans deserves your time? Is it Evangelion with its existential dread and symbolic storytelling? Or 86: Eighty-Six, a potent mix of war drama and political critique with a humanist core? Let’s explore how these shows compare across story, characters, themes, visual design, and emotional impact.

Story and World-Building

Neon Genesis Evangelion introduces a near-apocalyptic Earth, besieged by mysterious beings called Angels. The teenage pilots of the Evangelion units are humanity’s last hope. But as the series progresses, the narrative unravels into a surreal descent into the human psyche. What begins as a war between man and monster morphs into a deeply symbolic journey about loneliness, depression, and the fear of existence. With its labyrinthine plot, Evangelion demands active engagement from viewers and leaves much open to interpretation.

In contrast, 86: Eighty-Six offers a more linear narrative, but with high emotional and political stakes. It reveals a future where a privileged society maintains the illusion of peace while exploiting a hidden underclass to fight its wars. The first season sets up the cruelty of this system with precision, and the bond between Lena and Shin becomes the emotional anchor. The plot continues to evolve into themes of loss, freedom, and reconciliation, all while maintaining a grounded sci-fi military aesthetic.

While Evangelion trades in symbolism and metaphysical ambiguity, 86 presents a brutal yet lucid critique of war and segregation, making its world disturbingly believable.

Characters and Development

Few anime characters have sparked as much debate as Shinji Ikari. Awkward, terrified, and burdened by expectations, Shinji is not your typical hero. His journey—or rather, his emotional implosion—forms the beating heart of Evangelion. Alongside him are Ayanami Rei, the emotionless enigma; Asuka Langley, the aggressive, prideful prodigy; and Misato Katsuragi, their flawed guardian. Each character serves as a reflection of different coping mechanisms under extreme pressure, making them feel disturbingly real.

86 features a dual narrative: Lena’s idealism clashes with the grim realities of the battlefield, while Shin, the stoic “Reaper,” carries the weight of loss and leadership. The Spearhead Squadron members each get meaningful arcs, and their camaraderie builds emotional investment. Over time, Lena transforms from a naïve officer to a compassionate commander, while Shin opens up emotionally despite his trauma and survivor’s guilt.

While Evangelion leans into psychological complexity and self-destruction, 86 focuses more on character resilience, growth, and human connection amid oppression. Both approaches are powerful—one introspective, the other inspirational.

Themes and Symbolism

Evangelion is, at its core, a study of human vulnerability. It questions identity, purpose, and the fear of being alone. Its infamous final episodes and The End of Evangelion film are riddled with Jungian, Freudian, and religious symbolism—crosses, rebirth, AT Fields, and the Human Instrumentality Project. These themes don’t have straightforward answers but instead mirror the characters’ internal crises.

86 deals in sociopolitical themes: racism, dehumanization, the ethics of war, and the illusion of justice. It’s a pointed critique of how societies create “others” to carry their burdens. Yet, unlike Evangelion’s despair, 86 finds space for hope—particularly in the unlikely connection between Lena and Shin, and the resilience of the Eighty-Six.

In essence, Evangelion asks why we hurt, while 86 asks who we choose to hurt—and whether we can still change.

Animation and Visual Design

Neon Genesis Evangelion (especially in its 1995 version) pushed the boundaries of animation for its time. Its mecha battles are intense and raw, with a biomechanical edge that makes the Evangelions feel alive. The series also incorporates minimalistic and avant-garde visuals—entire sequences of still frames, abstract imagery, and jarring cuts—all used to underscore emotional states.

The Rebuild of Evangelion movies further enhance this with updated animation and modern effects, but retain the surreal tone.

86: Eighty-Six boasts stunning visuals from A-1 Pictures. Mecha combat, while not as abstract as Evangelion, is fluid and cinematic. The color palette often shifts between warm, war-torn reds and the sterile whites of the Republic, visually reinforcing the show’s themes. Flashbacks and dream sequences are also beautifully rendered, often giving deeper insight into Shin’s psyche.

While Evangelion is more artistic and interpretive, 86 is polished, dynamic, and consistent—especially in action and emotional moments.

Soundtrack and Atmosphere

Evangelion’s soundtrack, composed by Shiro Sagisu, is legendary. From the iconic “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis” to the haunting orchestral pieces like “Decisive Battle” and “Thanatos,” the music captures both grandeur and vulnerability. Silence, too, is used strategically to unnerve and amplify inner tension.

86 features a modern, emotional score composed by Hiroyuki Sawano and Kohta Yamamoto. The insert songs during battles or dramatic climaxes are powerful, sometimes even tear-inducing. Themes like “Avid” or “Voices of the Chord” match the tone of sacrifice and resolve that the story builds toward.

If you want iconic, genre-defining music that’s etched into anime history, Evangelion has it. If you want emotionally charged, sweeping scores that elevate narrative impact, 86 delivers on all fronts.

Emotional Impact and Legacy

Evangelion leaves viewers rattled, challenged, and often confused—but also deeply moved. It’s not an easy watch, but it’s unforgettable. The legacy it has left on the anime industry is immeasurable. It reshaped mecha and psychological genres, inspired countless creators, and continues to fuel discussion decades later.

86 may not yet have Evangelion’s legacy, but it has quickly established itself as one of the most emotionally intelligent mecha anime of the last decade. It provokes empathy, challenges viewers to think about modern sociopolitical issues, and still offers character arcs filled with hope and redemption. Its emotional payoff is earned, and its storytelling is more accessible to modern audiences without sacrificing depth.

Conclusion

Both Neon Genesis Evangelion and 86: Eighty-Six are essential mecha anime—but they serve very different emotional experiences:

• Choose Neon Genesis Evangelion if:

  • You enjoy psychological exploration and symbolism.

  • You want a genre-defining classic with artistic depth.

  • You’re prepared for emotional ambiguity and cerebral storytelling.

• Choose 86: Eighty-Six if:

  • You prefer clear narrative arcs with strong character development.

  • You’re drawn to war drama, social critique, and emotional growth.

  • You want a powerful story of rebellion, humanity, and connection.

In the end, the best mecha anime for you depends on what you seek—existential introspection or political commentary with heart. Or, better yet, watch both. Together, they prove that the mecha genre is more than metal and fire—it’s emotion, identity, and the fight to stay human.