Frequently Asked Questions
The most-asked questions about super robot wars.
What is Super Robot Wars?
Super Robot Wars is a long-running Japanese strategy-RPG franchise that fuses mecha anime from dozens of separate franchises into a single crossover campaign. Players command units drawn from shows like Gundam, Mazinger, Evangelion, and many others while navigating branching story routes.
Who develops and publishes the games?
Banpresto, now a division of Bandai Namco, has led development since the series launched in 1991. Bandai Namco continues to publish new entries, sometimes in partnership with external studios for specific titles.
What do 'Super Robot' and 'Real Robot' mean in the title?
'Super Robot' covers fantastical, spirit-powered mecha such as Mazinger Z and Getter Robo, while 'Real Robot' refers to grounded, military-style machines like the Gundam line. The name is a loose umbrella: the series actually includes both categories plus non-mecha anime.
Where should a newcomer start?
Super Robot Wars Alpha (1997) is the classic recommendation for a traditional turn-based experience, while Super Robot Wars T (2012) offers a more modern, tutorial-friendly entry. The Original Generations titles are also popular first picks because they don't require prior anime knowledge.
What is Original Generations (OG)?
OG is a recurring sub-series built around entirely original pilots, units, and factions created specifically for the games rather than adapted from existing anime. These characters frequently appear as supporting cast in other SRW entries and have their own dedicated storylines.
How do the crossover storylines work?
Each title recontextualizes its source anime as parallel worlds, alternate histories, or events within a shared SRW universe. Players typically select a starting faction, and the narrative branches based on which characters they recruit, save, or lose.
Who are the most iconic figures across the franchise?
Shin Asuka from SRW Alpha and the OG pilots have become the de facto face of the series for many fans. On the source-material side, Amuro Ray, Kouji Kabuto, and Shinji Ikari are among the most frequently referenced pilots.
How large is the Super Robot Wars catalogue?
Counting mainline entries, spin-offs, and mobile ports, the franchise spans well over 100 titles across roughly three decades. The core numbered mainline entries (Alpha, X, T, V, etc.) number around 30 to 40 depending on how strictly you categorize them.
What sets SRW combat apart from other strategy RPGs?
Beyond standard grid tactics, the series features multi-unit combo attacks, anime-style 'Super' and 'Limit' special moves, and a morale system that can cause units to rout. The sheer variety of abilities pulled from dozens of source shows adds a layer of tactical depth uncommon in the genre.
Is there a single 'best' Super Robot Wars game?
There is no universal answer, but Alpha is often credited with defining the modern formula, while T and V are praised for streamlining the systems for new players. OG: The Moon Dances is a frequent recommendation for anyone who wants a self-contained story without needing to know the source anime.