If you have been searching for an anime that mixes intense mecha action with deep emotional storytelling, 86–EIGHTY-SIX is a name that keeps popping up in discussions. The series, which debuted in 2021, has gathered a strong following worldwide. But is it really worth your time? With so many anime releasing every season, it is fair to wonder if this show lives up to the hype. Based on the light novel series by Asato Asato and brought to life by Studio A-1 Pictures, 86–EIGHTY-SIX offers a viewing experience that stays with you long after the credits roll .
The answer is yes for most viewers, but understanding why requires looking at what makes this series special. From its dark themes and memorable characters to its stunning production values, here is everything you need to know about 86–EIGHTY-SIX to decide if it belongs on your watchlist.
What Is 86–EIGHTY-SIX About?
At its core, 86–EIGHTY-SIX is a science fiction war anime set in a dystopian future. The story takes place in the Republic of San Magnolia, a nation that claims to be fighting a war with zero casualties. They tell their citizens that autonomous drones called Juggernauts are fighting against the unmanned weapons of the neighboring Giadian Empire .
The truth is much darker. Those so-called autonomous drones are actually piloted by real people. They are the Eighty-Six, a group of citizens deemed inferior and stripped of their humanity. Forced to fight and die on the front lines, these soldiers are treated as nothing more than disposable tools by the very people they protect .
The narrative follows two main characters from opposite sides of this cruel system. Vladilena “Lena” Milizรฉ is a young, idealistic officer from the Republic who is assigned to command the Spearhead Squadron, a unit of Eighty-Six fighters. She communicates with them remotely and genuinely wants to treat them with the respect they deserve . On the other side is Shinei “Shin” Nouzen, the stoic and skilled leader of the Spearhead Squadron. Known as the Undertaker, he carries the heavy burden of being the sole survivor of every squadron he has served with and can hear the voices of his fallen comrades .
The Core Themes That Make It Stand Out
What truly sets 86–EIGHTY-SIX apart from other war anime is how it handles its heavy subject matter. This is not a show that uses war as a simple backdrop for action. It digs deep into themes that feel relevant and uncomfortable.
Discrimination and Dehumanization
The entire premise of the series is built on institutionalized racism. The Republic classifies the Eighty-Six as non-human based on their ethnicity, allowing citizens to enjoy peace and comfort while knowing, on some level, that others are dying to maintain it. The anime does not shy away from showing how propaganda shapes public opinion and allows society to ignore atrocities . One reviewer noted, “The 86 are people, but their dehumanization reaches the point that Lena, in her vain attempt to save them from that steel prison, ends up being part of the game. She doesn’t even know their names” .
Trauma and Survival
Shin’s ability to hear the voices of dead comrades is a haunting representation of survivor’s guilt. The series explores how constant exposure to death and violence affects young soldiers. It is not just about physical survival, but about maintaining ones humanity in an inhumane system .
Empathy Versus True Understanding
The relationship between Lena and the members of Spearhead Squadron is complex. Lena genuinely cares and wants to help, but she represents the oppressive system. The show explores the painful gap between empathy and true understanding, forcing characters and viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about privilege and complicity .
Animation and Music: A Technical Masterpiece
Even if heavy themes are not usually your preference, the production quality of 86–EIGHTY-SIX makes it worth watching. Studio A-1 Pictures delivered some of the most impressive animation of recent years.
The mecha battles are chaotic and beautifully animated. The Legion drones move with an unsettling, inhuman grace, while the Juggernauts piloted by the Eighty-Six jerk and jump across the battlefield like spiders . But the animation shines just as brightly in quiet moments. Facial expressions, subtle gestures, and atmospheric backgrounds all receive the same attention to detail .
Then there is the music. Composed by industry legends Hiroyuki Sawano (known for Attack on Titan) and Kohta Yamamoto, the soundtrack is a character in itself. Tracks like “The Answer,” “Hands Up to the Sky,” and “Voices of the Chord” have become fan favorites. One viewer shared, “I’ve had the soundtrack on repeat for daysโฆ I caught myself humming that haunting piano melody days later while doing laundry. That’s how you know it’s good” . The music elevates every scene, making emotional moments hit harder and action sequences feel more intense .
What Viewers Are Saying
The fan response to 86–EIGHTY-SIX has been overwhelmingly positive, with many calling it one of the best anime in years.
A long-time anime fan with over 1,000 completed series shared, “86 Eighty-Six easily ranks in my top 10. The story is unique, mixing intense battles with emotional, character-driven moments that gave me goosebumps” . Another viewer who was not typically a fan of mecha anime admitted, “I’m not even a fan of mecha animes but this one, oh this oneโฆ what a masterpiece” .
Even casual comparisons to other hits are common. One user noted, “Think of Attack On Titanโฆ but with robot tanks,” while another said, “This show filled the void that AOT left me. The world is just a cruel place. Good people fighting and dying for everyone but themselves” .
However, some viewers felt the second half of the series, while still good, did not quite match the energy of the first part. One review mentioned that the pacing felt different, but still acknowledged the series as a whole is a must-watch .
Release Structure and Where to Watch
86–EIGHTY-SIX originally aired in 2021 and consists of 23 episodes, split into two cours . The first cour focuses on the introduction to the world and the immediate struggles of the Spearhead Squadron. The second cour continues the story, deepening the character development and expanding the world.
For global audiences, the series is widely available. You can stream 86–EIGHTY-SIX on Crunchyroll in multiple regions including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and India . The platform offers both subtitled and dubbed versions, making it accessible to a wider audience.
As of now, there has been no official announcement regarding a third season, but the story continues in the original light novels for those who want to know what happens next .
Who Should Watch This Anime?
86–EIGHTY-SIX is a great choice if you enjoy any of the following:
- Deep character studies with emotional weight and realistic reactions to trauma .
- Political and social commentary woven into a sci-fi setting, similar to works like Attack on Titan or Legend of the Galactic Heroes .
- High-quality mecha action with meaningful stakes and beautiful animation .
- Powerful soundtracks that enhance the storytelling experience .
If you prefer lighthearted, comedy-focused anime with no emotional investment required, this series might be too heavy. The themes are dark, and the story does not shy away from showing the cost of war.
Final Verdict
So, is 86–EIGHTY-SIX worth watching? Absolutely. It is a series that takes the mecha genre and uses it as a vehicle to explore deeply human stories. The animation is stunning, the music is unforgettable, and the characters will stay with you. It respects its audience enough to tackle difficult subjects without offering easy answers.
Whether you are a longtime anime fan or someone looking for a story with real substance, 86–EIGHTY-SIX delivers. Just be prepared for an emotional journey that might keep you up all night. As one viewer put it, “Once you hit play, good luck walking away” .
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