DARLING in the FRANXX

In a ruined future where humanity survives inside enormous mobile cities, children are raised as pilots and trained to operate giant mechs called Franxx against mysterious creatures known as Kyouryuu. Life inside the Plantation is rigid and monitored, with youngsters living in the domed district Mistilteinn, unaware of the world beyond. For these kids, synchronizing with a partner to pilot a Franxx is more than duty, it defines who they are. Hiro, once a highly promising pilot, has lost his edge and struggles with his sense of purpose. Everything shifts when a horned, enigmatic girl calling herself Zero Two appears, upending Hiro's life and the rules that have governed the pilots.

Released in 2018, DARLING in the FRANXX was created by Naotaka Hayashi and Atsushi Nishigori. The TV anime features voice leads Yuto Uemura as Hiro, Haruka Tomatsu as Zero Two, Kana Ichinose as Ichigo, Yuuichirou Umehara as Gorou, and Nanami Yamashita as Miku.

Critical and fan response has been mixed but passionate, reflected in an 8.5/10 user rating from 1855 votes. Reviewers often praise the show's bold art and emotional highs, while many debates focus on its tonal shifts and narrative choices. Major themes include adolescent identity, intimacy and consent, and how rigid societies value utility over emotion, all played out amid mecha action and youthful drama.

Zero Two became an immediate cultural phenomenon, earning a devoted fanbase, widespread cosplay presence, and countless memes centered on her "darling" nickname and distinctive design. Key scenes and character dynamics sparked lively online discussion, fan art, and music covers, helping the series maintain visibility beyond its broadcast run.

The series did not dominate mainstream award circuits, though it produced strong fan-driven recognition and poll placements within anime communities. Its influence shows more in sustained fan engagement and merchandising than in major trophy cases.