Zoid Pilot
Zoid Pilot is a catch-all term for any person who operates the controls of a Zoid.
Overview
Though Zoids can be autonomous, the vast majority of Zoids (with the exception of drones such as Sleeper Zoids or 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.
There are many different classes of Zoid pilots, who go by various names:
- Soldier: 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
- Mercenary: free-agent Zoid pilots who fight for whoever can pay them
- Mind Rider: mechanical pilots who operate Zoids in the UK Comic
- 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 operate 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.
