Before the term “anime” become recognized within the states, Robotech in many ways became the “Godfather” of sorts that truly influenced this new medium of visual storytelling, by introducing it to wider audience. Set in the future, Earth has made advancements by using alien technology that was found on a crashed spacecraft but as a result is attacked after it is found by the same alien race seeking to recover their missing ship. Robotech expanded the idea of what animation could offer; a dramatic storyline similar to a soap opera, mixed with intense action sequences, all packaged in an animated format, which during the 80’s was unprecedented. The series actually continued under three different titles that followed separate points of a continuous timeline, but unfortunately due to ratings was never officially completed, though many times attempted. Even today, Robotech is a fond childhood memory that I enjoy experiencing again and again and still consider one of favorites

Ep. 1 “Booby trap” After an alien vessel crashes into Earth during a devastating time of war between the nations, a cease fire is called once it’s realized there are greater threats and ally together in order to discover the secrets of this new alien technology. After ten years of research, the reconstruction of the alien spacecraft is complete and a celebration is held by the new thriving city built around the vessel. During the commencement, Rick Hunter arrives to meet his old friend Roy Fokker, while the crew of the spacecraft SDF-1 prepare for its maiden voyage. Yet during the festivities, a mass army of similar spacecrafts jump into space near Earth, in search of the crashed vessel, only to find that humans have taken it over, sending an immediate response by the SDF-1 to attack, as both forces meet.

Ep. 2 “Countdown” During the attack from the Zentraidi, the alien force sent to recover the crashed spacecraft on Earth, Rick is caught in the middle of battle, stuck in one of the fighters but inexperienced in combat barely manages to escape and crash lands into the city. Trying to understand what is happening Rick is then rescued by Roy, who explains how to navigate the fighter, which during the landing turned into a giant robot. Meanwhile the SDF-1 attempts to take off but is unable when certain pieces of the ship fall apart and must immediately prepare for a second assault when the enemy begins an attack on the city. As Roy is called back into duty, Rick is forced to protect Minmei and confront the enemy.