LEGO Exo-Force represents the first LEGO line entirely dedicated to mechas, these giant robots piloted by humans. Launched in 2006 and discontinued in 2008, this line draws directly from the Japanese manga and anime universe, notably from series like Mobile Suit Gundam and Robotech.
The story takes place on Sentai Mountain, where a golden robot named Meca One leads a machine revolt against humans. The elite pilots of the Exo-Force use combat machines equipped with melee and ranged weapons to defend their fortress. The 2006 sets integrated luminous "power cores" connected to weapons by fiber optic cables, replaced by Exo codes from 2007 onwards.
Despite good initial sales in 2006, the line was discontinued after disappointing results in 2007. The story was never completed, leaving fans on a cliffhanger with the capture of Sensei Keiken in the jungle. This pioneering line nevertheless paved the way for future LEGO "big bang" themes.