Heavy Metal L-Gaim (1984)
A landmark mecha anime from director Yoshiyuki Tomino, set across a five-planet solar system torn apart by tyranny and rebellion.
Heavy Metal L-Gaim - Series Information
- Original Title: 重戦機エルガイム
- First Air Year: 1984
- Last Air Year: 1985
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Animation, Action, Adventure, Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode: 30 minutes
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 54
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: Japanese
- Spoken Languages: Japanese
- First Air Date: February 4, 1984 (Australia - PG)
- Networks: HTB, tv asahi, Nagoya TV, Niigata Television Network 21, khb, KFB, Shizuoka Kenmin TV, HOME, KSB, Kagoshima Broadcasting
- Alternative Titles: L-Gaim (JP), Heavy Fighting Machine L-Gaim (US)
- Production Companies: SUNRISE, Sotsu, Nagoya Broadcasting Network
Heavy Metal L-Gaim - Plot
Heavy Metal L-Gaim is an anime television series, begun in 1984, which was directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino. Its characters and mecha were designed by Mamoru Nagano, who would later go on to create The Five Star Stories. Heavy Metal L-Gaim takes place in the Pentagona System, a solar system made up of five planets. Oldna Poseidal, the legendary emperor from the planet Gastogal leads his 24 Temple Knights from planet to planet until all have fallen under his control. His final victory is on the planet Mizum in 3975 when he defeats Kamon Walha V, ruler of the Yaman Clan. Kamon hides his heir, Kamon Myroad on the planet Mizum with the legendary white mecha, L-Gaim. Fifteen years later, now grown up and known as Daba Myroad, he leads a rebellion to free the planets of Pentagona from Poseidal's grasp.
Where to Watch Heavy Metal L-Gaim
Looking for where to watch Heavy Metal L-Gaim?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
Heavy Metal L-Gaim - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Maria Kawamura
- Bin Shimada
- Ryuichi Horibe
- Chieko Honda
- Hirokazu Hiramatsu
- Hochu Otsuka
- Show Hayami
- Asami Mukaidono
- Banjo Ginga
- Eriko Hara
Heavy Metal L-Gaim - FAQs
What is Heavy Metal L-Gaim about?
Heavy Metal L-Gaim is set in the Pentagona System, a five-planet solar system ruled by the tyrant Oldna Poseidal. The story follows Daba Myroad, heir to a defeated royal clan, who pilots the legendary white mecha L-Gaim and leads a rebellion to liberate the planets from Poseidal's iron grip.
Who directed Heavy Metal L-Gaim?
Heavy Metal L-Gaim was directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino, the acclaimed anime director best known for creating the original Mobile Suit Gundam. Tomino brought his signature blend of political intrigue and large-scale mecha conflict to this 1984 series, which aired across multiple Japanese regional networks.
Who designed the characters and mecha in L-Gaim?
Character and mecha designs for Heavy Metal L-Gaim were created by Mamoru Nagano, who later became famous for his epic manga The Five Star Stories. His distinctive aesthetic — elegant, highly detailed mechanical designs paired with fashion-forward character styling — is clearly visible throughout the series.
Where can I watch Heavy Metal L-Gaim?
Streaming availability for Heavy Metal L-Gaim varies by region. You can check current viewing options, including any subscription services, rental platforms, or digital purchase options available in your area, by visiting JustWatch, which aggregates up-to-date streaming information across multiple platforms.
How many episodes does Heavy Metal L-Gaim have?
Heavy Metal L-Gaim consists of 54 episodes across its single main season, plus 3 additional special episodes. The series aired in Japan from February 1984 through 1985, with each episode running approximately 30 minutes, making it a substantial entry in the classic mecha anime genre.
What genre is Heavy Metal L-Gaim?
Heavy Metal L-Gaim is a mecha anime series blending action, adventure, drama, and comedy. It belongs to the real robot subgenre pioneered by Yoshiyuki Tomino, featuring politically complex storytelling, large-scale interplanetary warfare, and intricately designed mechanical suits known as Heavy Metals.
Is Heavy Metal L-Gaim related to Mobile Suit Gundam?
Heavy Metal L-Gaim is not part of the Gundam franchise, but shares its DNA. Both were directed by Yoshiyuki Tomino and produced by SUNRISE, and both helped define the real robot genre. L-Gaim is considered a spiritual companion piece, exploring similar themes of war, rebellion, and political power.
When did Heavy Metal L-Gaim first air?
Heavy Metal L-Gaim first aired on February 4, 1984, in Japan. The series was broadcast across a network of regional Japanese television stations, including HTB, TV Asahi affiliates, and Nagoya TV, running until 1985 for a total of 54 main episodes.
More About Heavy Metal L-Gaim
Explore further details about Heavy Metal L-Gaim on these authoritative databases.