Zoid Pilot
Zoid Pilot is a catch-all term for any person who operates the controls of a Zoid. Though Zoids can be autonomous, the vast majority of Zoids (with the exception of drones such as Chimera Zoids) require the use of a pilot in order to fight at their full potential. Though some pilots view Zoids merely as weapons, other cases, the pilot forms a special emotional bond with their Zoid, which allows them to tap into their latent power and transcend normal barriers of strength.
There are many different kinds of Zoid pilots, who go by various names:
- Soldiers: those who operate a Zoid during times of war under the command of a formal military
- Transporter: those who operate Zoids to carry passengers or cargo
- Mind Riders: mechanical pilots who operate Zoids in the Marvel UK Comic
- Mercenary: free-agent Zoid pilots who work for whoever can pay them
- Guardian Force Fighter: elite soldiers who work for the Guardian Force
- Zoid Warrior: tournament fighters officially licensed by the Zoids Battle Commission
- Zi Fighter: the Fuzors equivalent of a Zoid Warrior
- Zoid Rider: the Genesis term for a Zoid pilot
- Machine Pilot: mechanical pilots who ooperate Bio Zoids
Incidentally, the widespread use of the term "pilot" in Zoids and other mecha anime is incorrect. Strictly speaking, "pilots" operate ships or aircraft - the vast majority of Zoids are terrestrial vehicles. One who operates a land vehicle is called a "driver". Unfortunately, "Zoid Driver" doesn't sound nearly as cool.
