Z.O.E Dolores, i

Z.O.E Dolores, i (ゾーン・オブ・ジ・エンダーズ ドロレス・アイ) is a 2001 Japanese anime series set in the Zone of the Enders universe. Produced by Sunrise and directed by Tetsuya Watanabe, the show spans 26 episodes and serves as a sequel to the OVA Zone of the Enders: 2167 Idolo. Set in the year 2172, the series follows James Links, a space cargo transporter, who embarks on a journey to reunite with his children, Leon and Noel. Along the way, he is tasked with delivering a mysterious Orbital Frame named Dolores, which has an AI personality and can operate independently. As the story unfolds, James becomes entangled in a larger conflict involving Orbital Frames, technology, and the mysteries surrounding Dolores.

The series explores themes of family, identity, and the ethical dilemmas of advanced technology, particularly through the childlike AI Dolores, who forms a bond with James despite her military capabilities. With its blend of mecha action and emotional storytelling, Z.O.E Dolores, i expanded the Zone of the Enders universe and became a key part of the franchise. The show is remembered for its engaging narrative, character development, and its deeper dive into the origins and potential of the Orbital Frames.