Okay, So What's VOTOMS?

Decoding VOTOMS: A Gritty Robot Saga Returns

A new anime project in the Armored Trooper VOTOMS franchise has been announced, stirring excitement and curiosity alike. For those unfamiliar, VOTOMS is a significant piece of mecha anime history. The Scopedog, its iconic mecha, is recognizable even to those outside the fandom. So, what is VOTOMS, and why is its return causing such a stir?

The VOTOMS Aesthetic: Real Robots in a Harsh World

The landscape of giant robot anime shifted dramatically in the 1980s, largely due to Mobile Suit Gundam. VOTOMS took the "real robot" concept to its extreme. Ryosuke Takahashi, the creator, had previously explored this grounded approach with Fang of the Sun Dougram. Takahashi initially envisioned a fantasy mecha story, but Yoshiyuki Tomino beat him to it with Aura Battler Dunbine. This led Takahashi to focus on the experiences of a battlefield-hardened soldier in a post-war society. While Gundam celebrated heroes, VOTOMS asked: what about the ordinary soldiers, the cannon fodder?

VOTOMS, a fittingly chosen name, delves into this gritty reality. Set in the Astragius Galaxy, recently emerging from a century-long war between Gilgamesh and Balarant, the story follows Chirico Cuvie. He is a soldier caught in a job gone wrong in this unforgiving world. Chirico's journey begins with imprisonment, torture, and forced labor. The opening lyrics, "I've grown weary of fighting," perfectly capture the disillusionment of a soldier who hoped his war was over.

The Scopedog: An Unglamorous Icon

The main mecha, the ATM-09-ST Scopedog, embodies the series' unglamorous nature. The acronym VOTOMS stands for Vertical One-man Tank for Offense & Maneuvers, and the Scopedog is the primary Armored Trooper. Kunio Okawara, the designer behind Gundam and Dougram, created the Scopedog. Its rotating lens turret and roller-dashing movement are instantly recognizable. It's like a stripped-down, utilitarian Zaku.

The Scopedog is not a reliable unit. The anime portrays the harsh realities of mechanized warfare. Any Scopedog Chirico pilots is unlikely to last an entire episode. Its thin armor is easily shredded, and its internal components are prone to explosions. The "cool" robots, like the pilots themselves, are considered disposable.

Uoodo: Finding Humanity in the Scraps

Despite the bleak setting, VOTOMS is not without humanity. In the city of Uoodo, Chirico encounters allies like Gotho, Vanilla, and Coconna. These characters demonstrate resourcefulness, though not always the best of humanity. The story explores Chirico's self-discovery and his understanding of the world that has put him through hell.

Chirico makes the most of his circumstances, both with people and mecha. The Scopedog's appeal lies in its workhorse nature, especially for those who appreciate utilitarian military equipment. Skilled operators can make these machines look impressive. The machines have extending arms for punches and "turnpicks" for quick maneuvering. "Battling," a gladiatorial combat using ATs, showcases the soldiers' skills and provides a spectacle of mecha combat.

VOTOMS: A Bitter Coffee for Modern Audiences

The world-weariness of VOTOMS may resonate even more with today's audiences. The series offers catharsis through its portrayal of people and machines with real-world flaws fighting back. Jinzo Toriumi, one of the main writers, stated that VOTOMS is not a flashy anime for kids but has levels that adults can enjoy.

VOTOMS is like bitter coffee: an acquired taste that invigorates once appreciated. If this appeals to you, consider watching VOTOMS. However, be cautious of the opening sequence's flashing lights.

The Expansive World of VOTOMS

The original anime aired over 52 episodes, divided into four arcs, starting in 1983. But this was not the end. VOTOMS has seen numerous OVAs released since its inception. These often supplement Chirico's story, with examples like Origin of Ambition, Pailsen Files, The Last Red Shoulder, Brilliantly Shining Heresy, and Alone Again. Others expand on the world, such as Armor Hunter Mellowlink, which follows a survivor hunting ATs without piloting one himself.

In addition to the anime, there are novels, manga tie-ins, and video games. The games often feature original stories connected to the VOTOMS universe. 2007's Armored Trooper Votoms for the PlayStation 2 recreated the anime opening in CGI.

The ATs of VOTOMS were also tailor-made for the modeling community. Numerous models have been released, including in Bandai's HG line for the series' 40th anniversary. VOTOMS has become a lifestyle brand, with companies releasing branded clothing, keychains, and more. This highlights the cool factor of VOTOMS, even as it raises questions about the consumerism of a story about societal decay.

Finding VOTOMS: A Challenge

Unfortunately, accessing VOTOMS can be difficult. The "Complete Collection" Blu-ray from Maiden Japan is out of print and expensive. This collection fixed the poor upscaling and ghosting issues of previous releases. Armor Hunter Mellowlink is also not included in the set.

With the new anime announcement, there is hope that a publisher like Discotek will rerelease the collection. This might also lead to streaming availability. The series was previously on HIDIVE but was removed.

The Future of VOTOMS: Die Garue Hexe

The new anime project, Die Garue Hexe, suggests a possible focus on a "witch." Whether it will follow Gundam: The Witch From Mercury's success remains to be seen. Mamoru Oshii's involvement is also notable. This is especially so in a year with new projects in the Ghost in the Shell and Patlabor series, franchises Oshii is associated with, but not involved in this time.

Until the new anime's release, fans can explore VOTOMS through available resources. Tim Eldred's website provides extensive detail on the franchise. Starting with the original TV anime is recommended, but side stories or video games can also be a good entry point. VOTOMS offers a style and vibe that appeals to those who prefer their robots real.