Robotech - The Macross Saga

One of the most iconic of all anime series outside of Japan, and one of the most influential on anime production within the country.  The story is just about the most iconic anime science fiction you can think of – A love triangle that plays out against the backdrop of a war against the villainous Zentradi. The story, a harrowing space opera, take elements of classic anime series like Starblazers, mixes them with elements from classic space opera films like Star Wars, and even the story of legendary World War II figure Vera Lynn. It thrilled viewers with its intricate storytelling, slick design, and romantic format. It also created the idea of the anime idol – Lynn Minmay.Voiced by Mari Iijima, Lynn Minmay might be the single most recogniseable anime character of all-time. In the series, she explodes on the scene and becomes the best-known performer in the world, beloved for generations in the way that Elvis or Madonna could only dream of. In the real world, Iijima was launched to international stardom by performing the role, and she's still beloved for it through to today!Why it tops the list: No other anime series had broken through to the English speaking world as thoroughly as Robotech, and few are as widely loved. The rise of US anime fandom from a tiny entity of a few dozen people on the West Coast to a thriving scene of cons with hundreds of thousands attending every year can be traced to the popularity of Robotech.