2 Cheaper 86 EIGHTY-SIX Alternatives (Save $240+/mo) [2026]
Not sure if 86 EIGHTY-SIX is right for you? Here are the best mecha alternatives to consider in 2026.
About 86 EIGHTY-SIX
A war fought by those the nation claims don't exist
Feature Comparison
| Tool | Rating | Pricing | Key Features | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 86 EIGHTY-SIX (current) | ★ 4.6 | freemium from $7.99/mo | 23 episodes (2 cours complete), A-1 Pictures production, English dub available | View |
| Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion | ★ 4.7 | freemium from $7.99/mo | 50 episodes (2 seasons complete), Sunrise production, English dub available | View |
| Neon Genesis Evangelion | ★ 4.7 | paid from $6.99/mo | 26 episodes + movie (complete), Gainax legendary production, New English dub on Netflix | View |
Detailed Look at Each Alternative
1. Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion
★ 4.7/5Code Geass: Lelouch of the Rebellion is a strategic mecha anime series centered on the exiled prince Lelouch vi Britannia. After gaining the absolute power of Geass, which forces anyone to obey a single command, he masterminds a rebellion against the oppressive Holy Britannian Empire under the alias Zero. The series expertly blends tactical warfare, political intrigue, and personal drama, all set against a backdrop of advanced Knightmare Frame mecha combat. Key features include its complex, chess-like narrative where every action has a consequence, the psychological depth of its morally ambiguous protagonist, and the series' reputation for delivering shocking, well-earned plot twists. The story is renowned for its tightly woven plot and one of the most definitive and discussed endings in anime. This series is ideal for viewers who enjoy cerebral stories where intellect and manipulation trump raw power, and for fans of character-driven science fiction. The main benefit is a thoroughly engaging experience that rewards close attention, offering high-stakes drama and constant strategic escalation. A clear use case is for a viewer seeking a complete, 50-episode narrative that functions like a prolonged game of psychological warfare. You follow Lelouch as he uses his Geass, his intellect, and his public persona as Zero to outmaneuver empires, all while the narrative explores the costs of his ambition and the blurred lines between justice and tyranny. The freemium model allows you to start the series at no cost.
- ✅ Brilliant strategic battles
- ✅ One of the best endings in anime
- ✅ Lelouch is an iconic protagonist
- ✅ Constant plot twists
- ✅ Perfect blend of mecha and politics
- ❌ Some melodrama and cheese
- ❌ School episodes can drag
- ❌ Animation quality varies
- ❌ Fan service interrupts serious moments
2. Neon Genesis Evangelion
★ 4.7/5Shinji Ikari is recruited to pilot a giant bio-machine called an Eva to fight mysterious beings known as Angels. What begins as a mecha anime evolves into a psychological deconstruction of the genre and exploration of depression, trauma, and human connection.
- ✅ Revolutionary and influential
- ✅ Deep psychological themes
- ✅ Iconic imagery and symbolism
- ✅ Changed anime forever
- ✅ Complex character studies
- ❌ Confusing and abstract ending
- ❌ Very depressing themes
- ❌ Requires multiple viewings
- ❌ Production issues in later episodes