A classic light mecha anime, quite unlike other mecha due to its realism in the world and the lighter tone. you could show this to anyone and they could enjoy it. The animation is top-notch old-school hand-drawn anime. and the characters are also all pretty enjoyable as well. There are several different story arcs usually sticking to one episode, so its mostly episodic but with some definite progression of the story and characters (well with the most you can expect from 7 episodes) For those that want more, there are the 3 sequel movies which are also good. and the tv show which is moreof a slice of life mecha which is an alternate timeline for the story.