Probably the second most popular mecha series of all time is Macross, and it's no wonder that it has spawned multiple series and spinoffs (including the series that was loosely based off of it, Robotech). However, where Macross Plus separates itself from the rest of the pack is that no previous background information needs to be known about the Macross saga before viewing it. You can go right into it without a clue in the world and still enjoy it immensely.

Fans of action will not be disappointed by Macross Plus. Fluid, fast-paced action sequences are littered throughout the series in a stunning display of animation prowess and choreography. The animation is complimented perfectly by the stunning musical score, one of Yoko Kanno's best. One of the songs that I really enjoyed was Voices, which was used in pivotal points during the OVA series. Much of the other music is performed by Sharon Apple, an advanced form of artificial intelligence in the series that sings in concerts. Yes, the idea of such a thing sounds pretty farfetched, but it works remarkably well in Macross Plus.

Though it was only four OVA episodes long, the amount of character development and story put in is incredible. The three main characters, Isamu, Guld and Myung, are fleshed about as much as possible in the four episodes and really bring the story to a whole other lever, despite the fact that some of the things they do are a little unbelievable. In the beginning of Macross Plus, it's very difficult to figure out just what the story is about. We're introduced to all of the characters in just the first episode and it's a bit difficult putting it all together. It then deceivingly shifts focus to a conflict with an artificial intelligence, but you can't be fooled by that. The real conflict in Macross Plus is between the three main characters.

Unfortunately, due to the fact that I hadn't seen any of the Macross saga prior to my viewing of Macross Plus, I had the feeling that I was missing something... some integral part to the story that connected every little detail. All of the talk about the Macross U.N. and the Macross itself (which is some sort of building shaped like a giant robot) made my head spin a little, but that was quickly remedied by the next advancement in the story. Even if you're not a big fan of mecha/action anime, I'm sure you'll enjoy Macross Plus nonetheless.