Mazinger Z vs. Devilman (1973) Anime Review

Back in the early 70s, Go Nagai was changing the face of anime. With Mazinger Z, he created one of the first true “super robot” series, while Devilman pushed the boundaries of horror and tragedy in animation. So what happens when you smash those two worlds together? You get Mazinger Z vs. Devilman (1973). One of the earliest anime crossover films ever made.

It’s campy, chaotic, and unapologetically 70s. And while it doesn’t rewrite anime history, it’s a fascinating time capsule that shows just how wild crossovers could be, even back then.

Humanity is once again under threat. Dr. Hell, the mad genius behind Mazinger Z’s mechanical monsters, forges an unholy alliance with Sirene, one of Devilman’s fiercest demon foes. Their plan is simple: unleash both demon hordes and mechanical beasts to destroy the world.

Koji Kabuto, hotheaded pilot of the mighty Mazinger Z. Akira Fudo, the tortured human-demon hybrid known as Devilman. At first, they’re at odds. But as the threat escalates, the two are forced to fight side by side—robots against demons, demons against machines—in a climactic battle for Earth’s survival.

In 1973, seeing two of Go Nagai’s biggest creations share the screen was a huge deal. This film set the stage for the crossover culture we take for granted today. 

Koji is brash and mechanical; Akira is tragic and supernatural. Their differences create a fun clash that makes their eventual team-up satisfying.

From the bold colors and dramatic music to the slightly over-the-top action, the film captures the charm of its era. If you love retro anime, this scratches that itch.

Mazinger tearing through demons while Devilman goes head-to-head with giant machines? It’s as chaotic and fun as it sounds.

The movie is essentially an excuse to make robots punch demons. Don’t expect layered storytelling or deep character arcs.

Since it doesn’t tie into either main series, it feels more like a “what if” scenario than a must-see continuation.

Mazinger Z vs. Devilman is exactly what the title promises: a pulpy, over-the-top brawl between two iconic Go Nagai creations. It won’t win awards for storytelling, but as a piece of anime history, it’s hard to resist. For longtime fans, it’s a nostalgic crossover dream. For newcomers, it’s a quirky introduction to just how wild early anime movies could be.