"Ginga Hyōryū Vifam: Atsumatta 13-nin" is a science fiction anime series set in the distant future, where humanity has colonized various planets across the galaxy. The story begins on the planet Melkia, where a group of 13 children, ranging in age from 7 to 14, are left stranded after their parents and other adults are unexpectedly evacuated due to an alien attack. The children, who were attending a summer camp, find themselves alone and must rely on their wits and teamwork to survive.

The central focus of the narrative is the children's journey to return to their home planet, Earth. They discover an abandoned spaceship, the Vifam, which becomes their primary means of transportation. The ship is equipped with advanced technology, including combat capabilities, which the children must learn to operate. Over the course of the series, they face numerous challenges, including hostile alien forces, resource scarcity, and internal conflicts. The group's dynamics are tested as they navigate the complexities of leadership, trust, and cooperation.

Key characters include Juli, a 14-year-old girl who emerges as the de facto leader due to her maturity and resourcefulness. Her younger brother, Kotsett, provides technical expertise, while other members of the group, such as the spirited Roy and the cautious Chico, contribute their unique skills and personalities to the collective effort. The children's diverse backgrounds and temperaments often lead to disagreements, but their shared goal of survival and returning home keeps them united.

As the series progresses, the children encounter various alien species, some of which are hostile, while others offer assistance or pose moral dilemmas. The narrative explores themes of resilience, the loss of innocence, and the complexities of inter-species conflict. The children's journey is not only a physical one but also an emotional and psychological odyssey as they grapple with the realities of war and the responsibilities thrust upon them.

The series balances action and character development, with the children's growth and relationships taking center stage. Their interactions with the alien races they encounter provide insight into the broader galactic conflict, though the story remains firmly focused on the children's perspective. The Vifam serves as both a literal and symbolic vessel for their hopes and struggles, embodying their determination to overcome adversity and find their way back to Earth.