Reader’s Question:
Which of the following was the biggest hit in the 1980s: Armored Trooper Votoms, Heavy Metal L-Gaim, or Magic Hero Wataru? Please answer in terms of both the anime and model kits.
Anime Nostalgia: A Dive into the 80s Hits
So, the question of which anime reigned supreme in the
1980s—Armored Trooper Votoms, Heavy Metal L-Gaim, or Magic Hero Wataru—really brings back some memories for me. I mean, these shows were more than just entertainment; they were a part of our childhood fabric. I distinctly recall huddling around a TV with friends after school, scoffing down snacks, and arguing over which mecha had the coolest design. Magic Hero Wataru was like the fun-loving cousin that everyone adored. Its charm and humor drew in viewers of all ages, while Votoms had that gritty, military vibe that appealed to the more hardcore anime fans. Heavy Metal L-Gaim, on the other hand, had a unique flair with its design and story, but it didn’t quite capture the hearts of the masses like Wataru did.
The Magic of Wataru
Wataru, with its vibrant characters and engaging storylines, seemed to be everywhere! I remember my friends and I would rush to the local arcade to play the Wataru video game, and there were even toys and model kits flying off the shelves. It was almost a rite of passage for us to have a Wataru model kit on our desk. I can still picture the little pieces scattered everywhere, and the frustration of losing that one tiny part while desperately trying to assemble it. And let’s not forget the awesome merchandise—books, drama CDs, spin-offs—you name it! It was like a cultural phenomenon. I can’t help but smile thinking back to when I first discovered the OVA adaptations. My friends and I would gather for those late-night marathons, armed with chips and soda, laughing at all the witty banter.
The Underdogs: Votoms and L-Gaim
Now, Votoms had its own loyal fanbase. I remember a buddy of mine was super into it and would passionately defend its gritty storytelling. He’d often say that the realistic portrayal of mecha battles was groundbreaking. I’ll admit, I found some of it a bit too serious for my taste back then. We’d have these hilarious debates about which show was better, often devolving into playful arguments. I’d be munching on popcorn, while he’d passionately quote lines from Votoms. As for L-Gaim, it was a bit of an enigma for me. I was intrigued by its unique character designs, thanks to the talented Tomino Yoshiyuki. However, it didn’t quite make the same splash in pop culture. I remember flipping through Hobby Japan magazines and seeing cool L-Gaim models, but they just didn’t have the same buzz as Wataru.
Reflecting on the Era
Thinking back, it’s fascinating how these shows not only entertained us but also shaped our friendships and experiences. Those heated discussions, the model kit assembly mishaps, and the shared laughter over ridiculous plot twists—it all created a bond. I even remember trying to impress my crush by building a Wataru model in record time, only to have it fall apart right before her eyes. Talk about embarrassing! All in all, while Wataru might have taken the crown in terms of popularity and merchandise, I can appreciate the unique qualities of Votoms and L-Gaim. Each show had its own charm that resonated with different audiences. Now, I’d love to hear your stories! What were your favorite anime from the 80s? Did you have any memorable moments related to these shows? Share your experiences in the comments!
