Neon Genesis Evangelion, the groundbreaking and often perplexing anime series that captivated audiences worldwide, is approaching its 30th anniversary in 2025. To celebrate this milestone in a distinctly 21st-century way, McDonald’s has partnered with the iconic franchise to create a series of transforming toys, blending the surreal world of Evangelion with the familiar comfort of fast food.
Three collectible figures form the core of this collaboration: the McShake Unit-00, the Big Mac Unit-01, and the McFries Unit-02. Each toy is inspired by one of the Evangelion mechs (or “EVAs”) central to the anime’s narrative. The clever twist, however, lies in their transformation. While fully articulated and detailed to resemble their EVA counterparts, these figures can also transform into stylized versions of McDonald’s signature food items.
This playful juxtaposition of giant robots and fast food is sure to grab the attention of Evangelion fans, both old and new. The collectible nature of the toys, combined with the unique transformation gimmick, makes them highly desirable. While the Evangelion branding will undoubtedly draw in anime enthusiasts, the core of the promotion remains McDonald’s own products. The toys cleverly integrate the food items into their designs, ensuring that the Big Mac, McShake, and fries are front and center, subtly reinforcing McDonald’s menu offerings to a potentially vast audience. It’s a clever marketing strategy that leverages the popularity of a cult classic anime to boost brand visibility and drive sales.
