If you’re looking for a sequel to Macross with a similar story this is not it, but if you’re wanting to watch everything Macross, then this is enjoyable enough.
Story [6]
Even though Macross Plus is a sequel to the original Macross, its story is completely different: Macross Plus is much more similar to Top Gun than to the original Macross. The only major theme shared between the two shows is the presence of a love triangle, and the presence of a pop idol, but its role in the story is very different compared to other anime set in the Macross universe. While these changes aren’t necessarily bad, Macross Plus’s story cannot develop them enough to make them great; another problem of Macross Plus is the lack of consequences for major events, thus making the story less enjoyable.
Art [8]
The art style and the design are great: the Valkyries are well designed, and they’re given plenty of time to shine; the great design doesn’t stop at the Valkyries, also great is the concert from the second episode.
Like the art and the design, the animation is also very good: despite the age of this anime its animation still holds up and even the early 3D animation doesn’t look bad.
Sound [8]
The sound track is good, but it isn’t as memorable as that of the original Macross, luckily this isn’t an issue since in Macross Plus music in general doesn’t feel as important as in other anime set in the same universe.
Characters [6]
While the side characters of Macross Plus are well made and used at the right times, the same cannot be said for the main characters: with the exception of the female lead, the male leads aren’t only selfish and generally unlikeable, but when they finally change, the motives that drove them during the OVA appear so weak that their becoming better people it’s not enough to make the show better.
Enjoyment [7]
Even though I didn’t really like Macross Plus for its story or for its characters, I did like it for the attention it gave to flying scenes and to the Valkyries: the Top Gun feel is what really sold this OVA for me.
