Armor Hunter Merowlink [Episodes 1-12]

Alright, let’s dive into Armor Hunter Merowlink—a 12-episode OVA spinoff of Armored Trooper VOTOMS that’s been flying under the radar for way too long. If you’re into gritty 80s action, revenge arcs, and a protagonist who’s equal parts badass and brooding, this might just be your new obsession.

First off, let’s get the basics straight. Merowlink Ality is the last man standing after his squad gets sacrificed as scapegoats in a military cover-up. Armed with an anti-AT rifle and his comrades’ dogtags, he’s on a one-man mission to take down the corrupt officers who betrayed his unit. The series is set in the same universe as VOTOMS but stands entirely on its own—so no prior knowledge is needed, which is a huge plus for new viewers.

Now, let’s talk about the first episode, because that’s where the magic (and chaos) starts. The opening scene hits hard: Merowlink’s squad is ambushed, and he watches his friends die one by one. It’s a brutal setup that immediately establishes his motivation—this guy isn’t just angry; he’s hollowed out by grief. But here’s the thing: the show doesn’t wallow in sadness. Instead, it throws you straight into the action. Merowlink’s first move? Blowing up a transport truck carrying two soldiers. Only one survives. Wait, but later he’s careful not to harm innocent people—what’s up with that? Fans on MyAnimeList are split: some call it a plot hole, others think it’s just 80s anime logic. Either way, it’s a bold choice that sets the tone for his “no prisoners” attitude.

The action sequences are pure 80s cheese in the best way. Merowlink’s anti-AT rifle is over-the-top—think a bazooka that fires like a sniper rifle. He takes down mechs with single shots, and his luck is so absurd it’s almost comical. One minute he’s trapped in a burning building, the next he’s escaping via a conveniently placed rope. As one fan put it: “This definitely seems like the sort of thing that’s best watched without thinking about it too much.” And honestly? That’s the charm. It’s not trying to be deep; it’s trying to be fun.

But let’s not sleep on the characters. Merowlink himself is a man of few words, but his actions speak volumes. He’s not just a revenge machine—there’s a quiet honor to him. When he confronts the corrupt captain who ordered his squad’s death, he doesn’t just kill him; he makes him beg. It’s satisfying, but it also raises questions: Is revenge really worth it? Will he ever find peace? Then there’s Lulucy, a mysterious woman who pops up in the first episode. She’s sharp, sassy, and immediately catches Merowlink’s eye. Fans are already shipping them, and I can see why—their banter is electric.

Of course, the show isn’t perfect. Some viewers find it “cookie cutter” and “generic” for an 80s anime. The animation is dated, and the plot can feel predictable at times. But here’s the thing: it’s unapologetically 80s. The synth-heavy soundtrack, the over-the-top villains, the slow-mo gunfights—all of it adds to the nostalgia. If you grew up on shows like Robotech or Mobile Suit Gundam, this will feel like a warm hug.

The world-building is another highlight. The setting is a post-war wasteland where mechs (called ATs) are the main weapons. The acid rains of Melkia, the desolate deserts, the crumbling cities—every location feels lived-in and dangerous. It’s a harsh world, and Merowlink fits right in. His dogtags, which he smears with blood after each kill, are a haunting reminder of his past. It’s a small detail, but it adds so much depth to his character.

Now, let’s talk about the pacing. The first episode moves at a breakneck speed—no filler, no fluff. We get Merowlink’s backstory, his first revenge kill, and the introduction of key characters all in 25 minutes. It’s tight, and it leaves you wanting more. The second episode slows things down a bit, focusing on Merowlink’s journey through the desert. He meets a group of nomads, gets into a bar fight, and even has a moment of vulnerability when he remembers his fallen comrades. It’s a nice balance of action and character development.

But here’s the real kicker: the series isn’t just about revenge. It’s about survival. Merowlink is a fugitive, hunted by the military and other bounty hunters. Every episode, he’s one step ahead, but the net is closing in. The tension builds steadily, and by the midpoint, you’re on the edge of your seat wondering if he’ll make it.

The animation, while dated, has its moments. The mech designs are gritty and realistic—no flashy colors, just rust and bullet holes. The fight scenes are dynamic, with quick cuts and close-ups that make you feel like you’re in the middle of the action. The voice acting is also top-notch. Merowlink’s gravelly voice perfectly captures his weariness, and the villains are delightfully over-the-top.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: the name. “Merowlink” (or “Mellowlink,” as some fans call him) is… well, it’s a bit silly. But once you get past it, it’s easy to forget. The character is so compelling that the name becomes an afterthought.

So, who is this show for? If you love 80s anime, mech action, or revenge stories, this is a must-watch. It’s not for everyone—if you prefer modern, polished anime, you might find it too rough around the edges. But if you’re willing to embrace its flaws, you’ll be rewarded with a wild, entertaining ride.

In conclusion, Armor Hunter Merowlink is a hidden gem from the 80s. It’s not perfect, but it’s unapologetically itself. The action is thrilling, the characters are memorable, and the world is immersive. Whether you’re a VOTOMS fan or a newcomer, this series is worth checking out. Just grab some popcorn, turn off your brain, and enjoy the ride.

As one fan put it: “This first ep left a great first impression—I enjoyed it a lot actually! It was a bit ridiculous, sure, but it was also just downright entertaining to watch.” And honestly? That’s the best way to describe it. It’s ridiculous, it’s fun, and it’s exactly what you need when you want to escape into a world of mechs, revenge, and 80s nostalgia.

So, what are you waiting for? Dive into Armor Hunter Merowlink and join Merowlink on his quest for vengeance. You won’t regret it.