Armored Trooper VOTOMS
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Episode
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Armored Trooper VOTOMS

Armored Trooper VOTOMS

19837
AnimationDramaSci-Fi & Fantasy
Released
Apr 01, 1983
Country
Japan
Production
SUNRISE
The story of stoic Armored Trooper pilot Chirico Cuvie and his quest for answers after a sudden betrayal leaves him on the run from his own military.

About

Quick guide

Armored Trooper VOTOMS is a 1983 Japanese mecha series following a lone pilot on the run.

In a galaxy torn by war, former elite soldier Chirico Cuvie discovers his own army has betrayed him. Forced into the lawless city of Uoodo, he seeks answers about a mysterious mission and a hidden woman, all while evading both enemies and corrupt officials. The series blends tactical mech battles with political intrigue and a stoic hero’s quest for truth.

What to know

  • 52 episodes aired from 1983–84.
  • Set after a forgotten war between Gilgamesh and Balarant.
  • VOTOMS are fragile, single‑man mecha with thin armor.
  • Chirico formerly served in the elite Red Shoulder Battalion.
  • The story features deep political conspiracies.
  • Mecha designs by renowned artist Kunio Okawara.
  • Available on several streaming services.
  • Known for intense action and realistic military detail.

Watch if

Watch if you enjoy grounded sci‑fi with tactical combat, political intrigue, and a stoic hero who refuses to let betrayal define him.

Skip if

Skip if you prefer light‑hearted anime, flashy action without depth, or if you dislike gritty war themes and adult content.

dark toneintense actionwar themespolitical themespsychological elementsmature themessuspensefulsome goredialogue heavycrime violence
Setting and Conflict
The series opens after a century‑long war between the Gilgamesh Confederation and the Balarant Union. Both sides now hold a fragile truce, but secret military agendas simmer beneath the surface. The fragile VOTOMS serve as the main armaments in this uneasy peace, setting the stage for political intrigue.
The Pilot: Chirico Cuvie
Chirico is a former elite soldier of the Red Shoulder Battalion. His calm, stoic demeanor masks a deep sense of loyalty. When he discovers that his mission is a cover, he is left to confront betrayal while navigating a hostile galaxy.
Mecha and Technology
VOTOMS are single‑man combat vehicles built with thin armor and a combustible liquid muscle. They offer tactical flexibility but low survivability. The show’s realistic depiction of maintenance, combat, and the psychological toll on pilots adds depth to the mecha genre.
Uoodo City and Outlaws
Uoodo City is a lawless refuge for fugitives and criminals. Here Chirico must adapt to a rougher world, learning to survive in an environment where every ally can be a threat. The city’s underworld provides both danger and unexpected support.
War and Politics Themes
The series delves into the moral complexities of war, revealing the political machinery that manipulates conflicts. Through espionage, double‑agents, and hidden agendas, it showcases how war can be perpetuated for power rather than for peace.
The Ongoing Mystery
At the core lies a mysterious object and a woman in a suspended capsule. Chirico’s pursuit of answers forces him into deeper conspiracies, keeping viewers engaged through unanswered questions and continuous revelations.

FAQ

21 Q&A
What does VOTOMS stand for?
VOTOMS is an acronym for Vertical One‑Man Tank for Offense & Maneuvers. It refers to the single‑pilot mecha used by the Gilgamesh forces.
Who is Chirico Cuvie?
Chirico is a former Red Shoulder Battalion soldier, now a lone pilot on the run after a betrayal. He is known for his calm demeanor and tactical skill.
What is the Red Shoulder Battalion?
The Red Shoulder was an elite military unit within the Gilgamesh Confederation, tasked with special operations and covert missions.
What is Uoodo City?
Uoodo City is a lawless haven for outlaws, mercenaries, and fugitives, serving as a refuge and battleground for Chirico’s journey.
How many episodes does the series have?
The original TV series contains 52 episodes, originally airing between 1983 and 1984.
Is the show suitable for younger viewers?
The series contains mature themes, intense action, and some gore. It is best suited for older teens and adults.
What type of mecha are used in VOTOMS?
VOTOMS are single‑man mecha with thin, fragile armor and a combustible liquid muscle. They are designed for rapid deployment but have low survivability.
What is the main conflict in the series?
The core conflict centers on Chirico’s pursuit of truth after being betrayed by his own military, uncovering a deeper conspiracy that threatens the fragile peace.
Do the characters have personal arcs?
Yes. Chirico’s stoicism and search for answers evolve, and supporting characters reveal personal struggles, loyalty, and moral ambiguity.
Are there any spin‑offs or OVAs?
Multiple OVAs and sequels exist, such as The Last Red Shoulder, The Big Battle, and Pailsen Files, expanding on characters and storylines.
What is the setting’s political background?
The setting is a galaxy where Gilgamesh and Balarant once waged war. A fragile truce now masks ongoing political scheming and power struggles.
Who designed the mecha for the series?
Renowned mecha designer Kunio Okawara created the VOTOMS, giving them a distinct, realistic look.
Is the show action‑heavy?
The series features plenty of combat scenes, but it also emphasizes strategy, dialogue, and political intrigue.
What kind of tone does the series adopt?
VOTOMS presents a dark, mature tone with serious themes, but it maintains a grounded, realistic atmosphere.
How is the series received by critics?
It is praised for its realistic military depiction and complex characters, though some viewers find the pacing slow.
What’s the main mystery of the plot?
The mystery revolves around a mysterious object and a hidden woman in a suspended capsule, tied to a larger conspiracy.
Does the series contain any romance?
Romantic subplots are minimal; the focus remains on war, survival, and political intrigue.
What are the main themes explored?
Themes include betrayal, war ethics, political manipulation, survival, and the psychological burden of combat.
How does the series handle violence?
Violence is realistic and sometimes graphic, but it is integral to the story’s depiction of war and its consequences.
Is there a clear conclusion to the story?
The main series culminates in a resolution, but several plot threads continue in subsequent OVAs and spin‑offs.
Can I watch the series on streaming platforms?
Yes, the series is available on multiple streaming services that carry classic anime titles.

Actors

Hozumi Goda
Hozumi Goda
Chirico Cuvie (voice)
Kazuko Yanaga
Kazuko Yanaga
Phantom Lady Fyana (voice)　※does not appear in all episodes.