The initial publication of the Getter Robo manga occurred fifteen years prior to its contemporaries. This manga introduced the concept of transforming robots that combine into powerful machines. In ancient times, dinosaurs were forced underground due to the arrival of mysterious "Getter Rays" on Earth. After transforming into sentient beings, they became resentful towards humans who had replaced them on the surface. To combat these vengeful creatures is Getter Robo, a machine constructed by Professor Saotome that harnesses the power of "Getter Rays." Its pilots are three strong-willed young men: Nagare Ryoma, the violent martial artist; Jin Hayato, the psychopathic yet intelligent revolutionary; and Tomoe Musashi, the hot-blooded judo master. Each man controls one of three specially designed combat jets that can combine into three distinct giant robots: the flying and axe-wielding Getter-1, the quick and drill-wielding Getter-2, and the tough and tank-like Getter-3.