The Evolution of the Evangelion Units
Neon Genesis Evangelion has long been recognized as one of the most influential and complex works in the mecha genre. While the series is often associated with its giant robot battles, the true heart of the story lies in the characters who pilot these machines. Their emotional struggles, psychological depth, and personal growth are central to the narrative. However, the EVAs themselves remain iconic and powerful, each with unique characteristics that set them apart.
EVA Unit-05: Mari’s Unconventional Entry
Mari Makanami’s debut in the Evangelion franchise came during the second film in the Rebuild series, Evangelion: 2.0 You Can (Not) Advance. She piloted EVA Unit-05, which stood out from the traditional humanoid design. This unit had four limbs with wheels on its lower body and a built-in power source, eliminating the need for an umbilical cable. Despite being labeled as provisional and unfinished, Unit-05 was powerful enough to defeat the escaped Third Angel. Its unconventional design made it a standout among the other units.
EVA Unit-00: Rei’s Prototype
Rei’s Evangelion Unit-00 was the first functional EVA, as seen in the NERV Headquarters graveyard in The End of Evangelion. Although not the most powerful, it showed remarkable resilience, surviving an explosion from an N2 mine and withstanding Ramiel’s particle beam. It also became unpredictable when it went berserk, making it a formidable opponent in certain situations.
EVA Unit-03: A Troubled Machine
EVA Unit-03 was meant to be piloted by Toji Suzuhara, but it never got the chance to showcase its potential. Instead, it was possessed by the Thirteenth Angel, Bardiel, leading to widespread destruction. The unit resembled Asuka’s Unit-02 but with minor visual differences and a different paint job. Its power was largely attributed to the Angel inside rather than its own capabilities.
EVA Unit-08: Mari’s Custom EVA
In Evangelion: 3.0, Mari piloted EVA Unit-08, a unit with a spunky pink and white design and horns on its head. Though it only provided support in battle, it was equipped with a sniper rifle, suggesting versatility in combat. However, its full capabilities remain unknown due to limited screen time.
Mass Production Evangelions: The Terrifying Army
The Mass Production Evangelions are among the most terrifying units in the series. Their eyeless, white-and-black appearance, mechanical wings, and animalistic sounds make them intimidating. They are self-sufficient, powered by S2 Drives, and capable of immense strength. However, they were eventually overpowered by Asuka in The End of Evangelion due to their relentless attacks.
EVA Unit-02: Asuka’s Powerful Red EVA
Asuka’s EVA, Unit-02, is one of the most recognizable and powerful units. It is known for its fierce combat style and ability to be heavily customized. In the Rebuild films, it gains access to Beast Mode, allowing it to break through multiple A.T. Fields. Despite this, it still relies on internal battery power.
EVA Mark.09: A Natural Upgrade
EVA Mark.09 differs from other units as it does not require an external power source, suggesting it contains an S2 Drive. More importantly, its entire body functions as a Core, allowing it to regenerate from almost any damage. Piloted by Rei, it can wield various weapons and is highly resilient.
EVA Mark.06: The Mysterious Lunar EVA
EVA Mark.06 is the first in the Mark series and is constructed at a lunar base. It has a sleek, mask-like face and can travel between the moon and Earth without assistance. Piloted by Kaworu, it is rumored to house the twelfth Angel, though the exact reason for its strength remains unclear. Like Mark.09, it appears to be powered by an S2 Drive and can hover.
EVA Unit-01: Shinji’s Iconic EVA
Unit-01 is the most recognizable EVA in the series. Unlike others, it is made from Lilith rather than Adam. After ingesting the S2 drive of the 14th Angel Zeruel, it becomes a god-like entity capable of triggering Human Instrumentality. The bound soul of Yui Ikari inside the EVA also provides Shinji with a boost in critical moments.
EVA 13: The Mysterious Lookalike
EVA 13 is a unique unit that resembles a larger version of Unit-01. It features dual entry plugs, occupied by Shinji and Kaworu in Evangelion: 3.0. It does not use an external power source, indicating it is powered by an S2 Drive. When it awakens, it becomes nearly unstoppable, requiring two Spears of Longinus and Shinji’s ejection to subdue it.