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The 86 anime by A-1 Pictures didn't get a lot of credit when it came out in 2021, exploring the mecha genre through Shinei's eyes in the 86 Spearhead. The political conflict between the people of Magnolia and the Empire of Giad, coupled with the former coming up with their own versions of the Juggernauts, was a solid setup with strong characters. The series has also spawned several manga and light novel adaptations.
However, when it comes to the 86 anime, the series had a very short run with just 23 episodes and not much has been known ever since. Be that as it may, A-1 Pictures did a solid job capturing the series' feel, the dynamics of the Spearhead, and the world around them. It is one of those mecha anime adaptations that should be given a lot more love in the community.
Disclaimer: This article contains spoilers for the 86 anime.
All the streaming details of the 86 anime
The good news for people who want to give the 86 anime a chance is that there are several streaming platforms where they can watch it. However, when it comes to streaming platforms, Crunchyroll held the rights to stream the series back when it was airing and is still showing the anime, so people can go to Crunchyroll and give it a shot.
The series was also shown on several platforms in Japan back when it was released, with some of the most prominent being BS11, GTV, CTV, and Tokyo MX.
It is also worth pointing out that there is, of course, the original Japanese version with subtitles of this mecha anime. That being said, there is also an English dub for those who are interested in that as well.
What to expect and the appeal of the series
The story takes place in a fictional future where the people of the Republic of San Magnolia are in constant military and political strife with the Empire of Giad. However, San Magnolia's military gains an edge with the Juggernauts, which are giant mecha that level the playing field. They are controlled by people known as the 86, while the general public believes them to be just machines.
A major plot point in the story is how there is racial discrimination in Magnolia as the Alba are viewed as the upper class and the Colorata as often judged and rejected by society. Many of the 86 are Colorata, which begins to cause a lot of division in the military and political side of things. Major Vladilena "Lena" Milizé tries to support the Colorata, although the efforts are not enough since there are many factors that influence this situation.
Amidst the chaos and warfare, Shinei Nouzen, the protagonist of the series and known as "The Undertaker", is part of 86 and of the Spearhead Squadron. While everything at first seems to be fairly straightforward regarding his missions, Shinei eventually learns that the Republic and Empire hold a lot of secrets that could change this war.
Final thoughts
The 86 anime works because it connects a lot of social issues with a strong mystery about the reality of the Giad Empire and the Republic of San Magnolia. Combined with a strong main character in Shinei, the series has proven to be an underrated mecha anime in recent years.
