Common storytelling patterns you'll find across anime series
The anime features magical transformations from ordinary person to person with superpowers or enhanced abilities. The transformation sequence usually involves at least one character going through an outfit change which summons a costume — and is repeated throughout the series, possibly in each episode.
The anime features one male main character who finds himself as the target of affection of more than two characters. A reverse harem refers to a female main character in the same situation. The main character may or may not be aware they are anyone's love interest, and this dynamic often drives the plot throughout the series.
The anime follows the main character through the school year. You'll often spot cherry blossoms on the first day of term, school assemblies, student festivals, and summer break plans. Attendance and student life are central features of the series.
The anime features at least one giant robot — called a mech — which is piloted by a human. The main character is usually a pilot, and there may be more than one mech in existence. Mechs typically appear in battle sequences and show up multiple times throughout the series.
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