Animerica paid homage to both Robotech and Macross in their January 2003 issue. The cover story, titled "What Robotech Means to Me," is a great two-page retrospective looking back on the Robotech phenomenon and how it was embraced by viewers when upon first airing in North America back in 1985. Written by Patrick Macias (now editor-in-chief of Otaku USA), the article is a fast, but fun, read that captures the excitement and wonder of how uniquely different Robotech was at the time, particularly in comparison to the other animated shows on American television.
"Macross and Beyond," by Egan Loo, is a far meatier article that spans six pages and covers the history of Macross, from the original series to the then-current Macross Zero. It's an extremely informative piece and digs deep into the beginnings of the franchise, along with navigating its evolution and impact in the anime world.
The Animerica Spotlight feature, "So Cute! Japan's Love Affair With All Things Adorable," examines how so many small-sized, big-eyed characters have become a staple in anime, manga, and video games. The article focuses heavily on Hamtaro, Kirby, and Pokemon.
This is followed up by an interview with artist Junko Mizuno, discussing her graphic novels, Cinderalla and Princess Mermaid, along with her art book, Hell Babies.
The "New Manga" section talked about the imminent releases of Geobreeders and Peach Girl, while Pioneer's first DVD volume of Lupin the 3rd: The World's Most Wanted, was featured in the "New Anime" category.
Reviewed anime included InuYasha, Vandread, Zone of the Enders, and Dangaizer 3, and Armitgate III, among others. The reviewed manga consisted of 3x3 Eyes, Story of the Tao, and Kodocha. And, lastly, some of the video games receiving reviews were Robotech: Battlecry, Godzilla: Destroy all Monster Melee, and Suikoden III.
As for that "Free Poster" advertised on the front cover? It's a fold-out poster of Eri Ninamori from the anime, FLCL, holding an umbrella.
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