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The color debate: is unit 00 blue or orange?

Is Unit 00 Blue or Orange? | Fans Argue Over Iconic Eva Color Change

By

Chloe Dupont

Feb 16, 2026, 10:09 AM

Edited By

Isabella Cruz

2 minutes (approx.)

A side-by-side comparison of Unit 00 showing its colors under different lighting, one side blue and the other orange.
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Thereโ€™s a hot debate igniting in the fandom about the color scheme of Unit 00 from Neon Genesis Evangelion. While some fans insist itโ€™s blue following repairs, others remember it as orange during its prototype phase.

The Color Controversy

Fans have long questioned whether Unit 00 is blue or orange, marking a confusing point in its history. This debate revolves around whether Unit 00 reflects its battle damage, repairs, or simply fluctuates based on lighting. One commenter noted, "It kept going berserk because it wanted to be blue."

Color Evolution After Battles

Many users trace Unit 00โ€™s color change to its fateful encounters. After the battle against Ramiel, Unit 00's armor sustained significant damage. As one fan pointed out, "After our girl Ramiel burns the stuff outta Unit 00, it undergoes extensive plating repairs." These repairs reportedly utilized parts that were already blue.

Symbolism and Themes in Color Choices

The transition from orange to blue is not merely aesthetic. Some fans believe the colors reflect Unit 00โ€™s operational readiness. "Orange is for prototype classification; blue signifies itโ€™s ready for action," one user remarked. This theory adds another layer to why fans connect emotionally with the character of Rei inside Unit 00.

User Sentiment and Community Reception

Mixed feelings about the change are clear. One fan expressed a preference for blue, stating, "Personally always preferred the blue myself. It fits better with Rei." To others, the orange hue remains nostalgic. "I like the original orange but itโ€™s time to pay her a deserving operational color," added another.

Key Points of Interest

  • ๐ŸŠ Original armor was orange, reflecting its prototype status.

  • ๐Ÿ”ต Color shifted to blue post Ramiel battle due to repairs.

  • ๐ŸŽญ Color interpretations vary among fans, with lighting influencing perception.

This ongoing debate highlights not only a visual change but also the deeper connections fans feel toward Neon Genesis Evangelion and its characters. As battles continue, so does the conversation around what Unit 00 truly represents in the hearts of its fans.

Color Change Predictions

As discussions about Unit 00โ€™s colors continue, itโ€™s likely that the debate will intensify. Given the strong community engagement, we can anticipate a spike in fan art and discussions around potential merchandise that highlights the different colors, especially blue and orange. Experts estimate around a 70% probability that this will lead to new collectibles, as companies look to cash in on the nostalgia of the original designs while catering to the evolving preferences of fans. Additionally, video game adaptations could incorporate multiple color schemes, enhancing gameplay through choices that reflect the emotional ties fans have to Unit 00.

Reflections on Artistic Evolution

This color dispute is reminiscent of the historical debate over the original Batman film's production design, where contrasts in the character's costumes sparked conversations about identity and allegiances. Just like Batmanโ€™s color palette has shifted over the decadesโ€”reflecting the changing themes of the comicsโ€”Unit 00โ€™s color change symbolizes a broader narrative evolution in Neon Genesis Evangelion. As fans navigate their personal connections to these choices, it anchors the dialogue in an essential truth: colors, like stories, evolve, challenging our perceptions while deepening emotional engagements with beloved characters.