In a future where large, manually-operated robots are manufactured for the purposes of performing a heavy workload, from construction to military usage, Second Special Vehicles Division is responsible for ensuring that the operation of these large machines - also known as labors - remains safe and that citizens are secure in the event of misusage. Primarily an episodic experience, the television series of Patlabor follows the (mis)adventures of the Second Special Vehicles Division. The show is a moderately formulaic experience, with predictable adversity occurring throughout, but there are interludes of character arcs and conflict arcs. Despite being episodic in nature, the experience is enriched by itscast of characters, all of them distinct in their traits and personalities. With its substantial number of episodes the show is able to explore and develop each of the characters in meaningful ways.

The animation is good for the majority of the show as is the writing. Each episode is engaging and while there is not an overarching plot or storyline, the interactions among the characters only compound with interest over time as they become more familiar with one another through their shared experiences and help one another to overcome their weaknesses or flaws. The themes are largely comedy, action, and slice-of-life. There are also touches of mythological and supernatural elements to the series.

If you are a fan of mecha or have thought about getting into the mecha genre at all for that matter, then I strongly recommend Patlabor: The Mobile Police television series. As a point of entering the genre, it is a grounded setting that operates on mostly rational principles and does not cross the boundary into being hard/high science fiction like Gundam. It is extremely accessible through its varied characters and charming setting.