Aoki Ryuusei SPT Layzner

Because they are both 1980s plot-driven, action-oriented, super mecha shows that share a similar premise. The stories of God Mars and Blue Comet SPT Layzner feature a male protagonist that was born from an alien race that wants humanity destroyed. Once both protagonists, Takeru and Eiji, learn of Earth’s fate, they set out to defend humanity. With the help of some human comrades and a trusty super robot, the defectors fight to defend Earth against a threatening alien force. Both God Mars and Layzner are retro shows that primarily focus on mecha action; though God Mars is more episodic in nature, whereas Layzner tells a slower paced survival space adventure. read more 

There are a lot of smaller details that make them similar despite major plot differences. Both have grunt mech combat where the machines are far from invincible. Both leads are however extremely capable fighters without being invincible death machines, both have certain super human and paranormal elements and both unfortunately have pretty miserable conclusions.  

Both series have a very similar plot. Humans have reached space and get attacked by an alien army, which has them vastly overpowered. They then get saved by a single mysterious warrior.  

Classic mecha about young people unexpectedly having to deal with warfare and death. 

Will someone PLEASE think of the children?? if u put away the extraterrestial storyline of Layzner, it pretty much comes down as kids in warfare that survive by the skin of their teeth, both refer that! with mecha and all! 

AKA Fang of the Sun:Dougram. Same director, same focus on realism,characters, and story than on selling toys. The Revoltech action figures are still pretty boss. 

Invasion of human-like aliens from outer space on earth and a group of students struck in between the carnage. 

Top tier 80's Sunrise (wait, isn't that everything they did in the 80's?)... Both shows are heavy sci-fi, pitting a handful of average, ordinary, untrained characters together in the midst of unexpected warfare. These groups of completely inexperienced characters have to fight and bond together as one whether they like it or not so they can make it out to simply see themselves through to another day. Both take the mecha aspects fairly serious, with simulations, heavily detailed information, training, etc, tons of attention to detail and realism. Vifam might be a little more humorous at times, but it certainly knows when to be serious, as Layzner also has it's realistic funny moments between the characters interactions. These shows really give you a sense of danger and desperation, you'll fear for the worst when people get thrown into a fight they want nothing to do with. The sense of progression in both is excellent, as each episode passes, characters develop, grow, and learn new things, making it a great experience. These aren't just shows to watch, they're a journey to see through. read more