Evangelion Unit-00
The purple prototype that paved the way for humanity's final defense against the Angels.
The Evangelion Unit-00 stands as the pioneering model of the bio-mechanical giants created by NERV to defend humanity against the Angels. Distinguished by its unique purple and white armor plating, it was classified strictly as a Test Type prototype rather than a standard operational unit. Despite its experimental nature, it served as the frontline vessel for critical synchronization trials that defined the capabilities of the entire Evangelion project. Throughout the series, this machine is inextricably linked to Rei Ayanami, who serves as its primary pilot during the early stages of the conflict. While often overshadowed by the more powerful Unit-01, Unit-00 played a vital role in gathering combat data and refining the interface between human consciousness and the giant mecha. Its history is marked by significant trauma and sacrifice, reflecting the heavy cost of humanity's desperate struggle for survival against existential threats.
- Designation
- Test Type Evangelion
- Primary Pilot
- Rei Ayanami
- Affiliation
- NERV
- Color Scheme
- Purple and White
- Status
- Destroyed
- First Appearance
- Early Series Episodes
Lore & Background
Originally constructed as a testing ground for synchronization technology, Unit-00 was never intended to be the ultimate weapon but rather a stepping stone toward perfection. Its design incorporated early iterations of the AT Field generator, which allowed it to shield itself and its pilot from Angelic attacks. However, these systems were prone to instability, often causing severe physical backlash to the pilot when pushed beyond safe limits during high-stress combat scenarios. The unit's most defining moment occurred during the battle against the Angel Zeruel, where a catastrophic failure of its defensive barriers led to the death of its pilot within the Entry Plug. This event highlighted the dangers inherent in early Evangelion technology and forced NERV to rely more heavily on the production models that followed. Despite this tragedy, Unit-00 continued to serve until the final conflict, ultimately meeting its end during the assault by Mass Production Units in Tokyo-3.
In Their Own Story
The hum of the entry plug vibrates through the LCL fluid, a warm embrace that feels more like blood than water. Inside, Rei sits motionless, her eyes closed as the neural cables connect to the back of her head. Outside, the purple silhouette of Unit-00 stands against the grey sky of Tokyo-3, waiting for orders that may never come. There is no fear in the silence, only a cold acceptance of duty. The machine breathes with her, a second heartbeat echoing through the steel veins of the giant. When the alarm blares, she does not hesitate; the synchronization ratio climbs as one becomes two, and the purple armor begins to glow with the energy of a dying world.
Reader's Guide
The Evangelion Unit-00 operates on principles similar to its successors but lacks the unique biological stability of the later models. It functions through a neural link known as synchronization, where the pilot's mind merges with the machine to generate an Absolute Terror Field. This energy barrier protects the unit from physical and metaphysical harm during combat against Angels. Pilots enter the Entry Plug filled with LCL fluid, which facilitates oxygen exchange and data transmission between human and machine. While capable of immense strength, Unit-00 often suffered from synchronization instability compared to the production models. This made it less reliable in prolonged engagements despite its raw power potential. Commanded by NERV tactical officers, the unit responds to voice commands and manual inputs via a specialized control interface within the plug. It is primarily wielded by Rei Ayanami, whose unique biology allowed her to withstand the strain of early testing protocols better than other candidates.
Did You Know?
- It was the first Evangelion model activated for combat operations against the Angels.
- Its distinctive color scheme features purple armor plates over a white chassis.
- Rei Ayanami served as its primary pilot throughout most of the original series narrative.
- The unit was ultimately destroyed during the final battle in Tokyo-3 by Mass Production Evangelions.