《勇者萊汀》（勇者ライディーン/ Brave Raideen / Yūsha Raidīn）是1975年4月4日至1976年3月26日在日本教育電視台(現今的朝日電視台)播出的經典機器人動畫。由創映社製作，共有50集，每集播放30分鐘，之後的續作分別在1996年及2007年放映。

作為當時機器人題材中的創新之作，結合古代神話與科幻冒險的元素，展現正義與邪惡的對抗以及英雄的成長。作為日本早期的變形機器人之一，讓許多觀眾留下深刻的印象，並在後續成為機器人動畫的重要里程碑。

故事講述為一萬兩千年前被姆帝國擊敗的宇宙邪惡勢力—妖魔帝國（Demon Empire）成功復甦，該帝國以統治宇宙為目標，企圖入侵地球，為此派出強大的怪獸軍團。擁有古代文明之力的少年響洸（Akira Hibiki）， 駕駛萊汀機器人對抗。

響洸是遺失已久的古代民族後代，擁有古代力量的他註定要保護地球。當各地開始地震的災情傳出，他受到神秘聲音指引在探險中無意間發現埋藏於地下的巨大機器人萊汀，並成功啟動。萊汀是古代文明的遺產，主角透過自己與萊汀之間的心靈感應，能夠駕馭這台變形機器人，並與妖魔帝國的怪獸展開激烈戰鬥。萊汀除能變形成飛行模式，更具有多種武器系統，擁有強大的力量和神秘的能量，成為對抗妖魔帝國的有力武器。

在與妖魔帝國的激戰中，響洸不僅逐漸掌握駕駛萊汀的技能，也逐漸理解自己的命運。他的旅程是一段自我發現與成長的過程，從一個普通少年變成肩負地球未來的戰士。同時也得到來自朋友、家人和盟友的支持，共同組成為正義而戰的團隊。

主要人物:

• 響洸（Akira Hibiki）：故事的主角，性格堅強且勇敢。身為古代文明後裔，具備駕駛萊汀的能力。一開始對自己的使命感到迷茫，但隨著冒險的展開，逐漸了解自己肩負的責任。堅定與毅力讓他成為抗擊妖魔帝國的核心力量。
• 萊汀（Reideen）：古代機器人，被稱為「神之戰士」。萊汀的設計靈感來自於傳說中的金色鳥神，擁有強大的戰鬥力和飛行能力。作為武器，它具有多種攻擊形態和防禦系統，且能夠在戰鬥中變形。萊汀的力量與主角的心靈感應密不可分，兩者之間形成深厚的默契。
• 妖魔帝國（Demon Empire）：故事中的反派勢力，來自外星的邪惡帝國，企圖征服地球。他們擁有龐大的怪獸軍團和高科技武器，不斷派遣怪獸到地球來對抗萊汀和主角。他們的力量來自未知的外星科技，其野心則是支配整個宇宙。
• 支持角色群：故事中還有一些來自地球的支持角色，包括主角的家人、朋友和一些專業人士，在各個方面支持他的戰鬥，提供戰術建議或精神支持，這些角色在劇情發展中幫助主角成長並實現自我。

《勇者萊汀》在當時引起廣泛的關注，被認為是機器人動畫的一大創新。當時機器人題材的動畫往往聚焦於科幻，將古代神話和未來科技結合，這樣的設定讓觀眾耳目一新。此外，作為早期能變形的機器人，開創當時動畫中的新潮流亮點。觀眾對於萊汀變形成飛行模式，以及其神聖的造型設計，特別讚賞，這為後續的變形機器人設計奠定基礎。

在市場上，該作品取得不錯的收視率和周邊商品銷售成績。尤其是模型玩具備受歡迎，成為當時市場中的熱銷產品。這部動畫的影響力持續至今，不僅影響日後的機器人動畫發展，也成為許多科幻愛好者的經典回憶。

總體而言，《勇者萊汀》之所以受歡迎，是因為它不僅呈現令人興奮的戰鬥場面，還有深度的故事情節。探討英雄成長的過程和面對命運的抉擇，將戰鬥、友情、責任等元素交織在一起，給予觀眾許多啟發。正因如此，該動畫被視為機器人動畫史上的經典之作，奠定後續機器人題材的許多創新元素。

Brave Raideen (勇者ライディーン / Yūsha Raidīn) is a classic robot anime series broadcast on Japan’s Educational TV (now TV Asahi) from April 4, 1975, to March 26, 1976. Produced by Soeisha, the series consists of 50 episodes, each running 30 minutes, with follow-up adaptations airing in 1996 and 2007. As a pioneering work in robot anime, it introduced a blend of ancient mythology and sci-fi adventure, portraying the clash between good and evil and the hero’s journey. Known as one of the earliest transforming robots, Brave Raideen left a lasting impact on its audience and became a milestone in the genre’s history.

The story centers on the revival of the Demon Empire, a dark force that was defeated by the Mu Empire 12,000 years ago. Now, with plans to dominate the universe, the Demon Empire sets its sights on Earth, sending powerful monsters to conquer it. Akira Hibiki, a young boy gifted with ancient powers, is chosen to pilot Raideen, a robot embodying the lost wisdom of ancient civilizations, to defend the planet.

Akira Hibiki is the descendant of an ancient race and bears the responsibility of protecting Earth with his inherited powers. As seismic events begin to affect different regions, he is guided by a mysterious voice to an underground chamber, where he discovers the giant Raideen robot. Akira successfully activates Raideen, which is a relic of an ancient civilization. Through a unique psychic connection with Raideen, Akira can pilot this transforming robot to fight against the monsters of the Demon Empire. Raideen can switch to a flight mode and boasts a variety of weapon systems and powerful, mysterious energy, making it a formidable weapon against the empire.

In his battles with the Demon Empire, Akira not only hones his skills but also comes to understand his destiny. His journey is one of self-discovery and growth, evolving from an ordinary boy to a warrior entrusted with Earth’s future. Along the way, he gains the support of friends, family, and allies, forming a team dedicated to fighting for justice.

Main Characters:

Akira Hibiki: The story’s protagonist, Akira is resilient and courageous. As a descendant of an ancient civilization, he is destined to pilot Raideen. Initially uncertain about his mission, Akira gradually accepts his responsibility as he continues his adventure. His determination and strength make him the core of the resistance against the Demon Empire.

Raideen: Known as the “Warrior of God,” Raideen is a giant robot inspired by the legendary Golden Bird God. It possesses immense combat and flight capabilities and can transform into different modes for attack and defense. Its connection with Akira is strengthened by their psychic bond, allowing for a unique synergy in battle.

Demon Empire: The antagonistic force from another world, the Demon Empire is an evil regime intent on conquering Earth. It deploys numerous monster armies and advanced alien technology to combat Raideen and Akira. Their goal is ultimate control over the universe.

Supporting Characters: Akira’s journey is also aided by various Earth-based characters, including family, friends, and professionals who offer tactical advice and moral support. These characters contribute to Akira’s growth and play a significant role in the storyline.

Brave Raideen gained significant attention at the time of its release and was seen as a breakthrough in robot anime. Unlike the typical sci-fi focus of robot anime then, Brave Raideen combined ancient mythology with futuristic technology, creating a fresh, engaging setting for audiences. As an early example of a transforming robot, it set a new trend, especially with Raideen’s flight mode transformation and sacred design. Fans appreciated these innovations, laying the groundwork for future transforming robot designs.

The series achieved favorable ratings and strong merchandise sales, particularly for its model toys, which became highly popular. Brave Raideen’s influence continues today, shaping later robot anime and becoming a nostalgic favorite for sci-fi enthusiasts.

Overall, Brave Raideen captivated audiences not only with thrilling battles but also with a storyline of depth, exploring themes of heroism and fate. By interweaving action, friendship, and responsibility, the anime offered viewers a memorable experience. For these reasons, it is regarded as a classic in robot anime history, pioneering many elements that would inspire future works in the genre.