Guillermo del Toro has cited the original anime as an important inspiration. It was very popular in Mexico during the 80s, when he was a young man. I know since I was there and also watched it as a kid. There was lots of stuff from the series in stores... there were mini-figures in potato chip bags, stickers in candy and bubble-gum, clothing with art from the series, toys, etc. etc. The cartoon was a blast...