Editing Mecha (section)

== Mecha ==

=== Overview ===
'''Mecha''' (メカ), also known as '''mechs''' or '''giant robots''', are large humanoid or non-humanoid machines typically piloted by humans, featured prominently in Japanese anime, manga, and video games. The term "mecha" is derived from the Japanese abbreviation of "mechanical" and refers broadly to any vehicle or robot, though it is most commonly associated with giant robots in science fiction. These machines vary widely in design, size, and function, often playing central roles in the narratives of their respective media.

=== Historical Background ===
The concept of mecha has its origins in early science fiction literature and has been a staple of Japanese popular culture since the 20th century. The genre gained widespread popularity with the advent of television anime, particularly through series like ''[[Tetsujin 28-go]]'' (known as ''Gigantor'' in the West) in 1963. The genre further evolved with the release of ''[[Mobile Suit Gundam]]'' in 1979, which introduced the "real robot" subgenre, emphasizing realistic depictions of giant robots and their place in society.