The anime industry’s explosive growth in recent years has led to a plethora of shows, catering to diverse tastes. However, this abundance of new content often overshadows the gems of past decades, particularly the 1990s, a period that birthed many anime classics. While remakes of some 90s shows are on the horizon, the original series remain essential viewing for any anime enthusiast. This list highlights some of the best anime from the 90s, showcasing their enduring appeal and lasting impact on the industry.
Action and Adventure:
* Digimon Adventure (1999): A foundational anime for many, *Digimon Adventure* follows a group of children transported to the Digital World, where they partner with Digimon to battle a malevolent force. Blending action, adventure, and drama, the series offers compelling character development and a surprisingly ambitious storyline, exceeding the episodic nature of contemporaries like *Pokémon*.
* Outlaw Star (1998): Though somewhat overshadowed by *Cowboy Bebop* and *Trigun*, *Outlaw Star* is a wildly entertaining space opera. A blend of fantasy, Western, and sci-fi elements, its success hinges on its charismatic lead, Gene Starwind, and an over-the-top, action-packed narrative. While showing its age, its pulpy charm and larger-than-life characters make it a fun watch.
* Initial D First Stage (1998): This anime reigns supreme in the racing genre. Following the unlikely journey of Takumi Fujiwara, a seemingly uninterested gas station attendant who becomes a street racer, *Initial D* delivers breathtaking driving sequences that remain impressive even today. Its focus on the gradual escalation of stakes and the thrill of the race itself establishes it as a definitive classic.
* Trigun (1998): Featuring stunning Madhouse animation and a memorable cast, *Trigun* centers on Vash the Stampede, a pacifist with a massive bounty on his head. Unlike typical protagonists driven by grand ambitions, Vash’s journey unfolds through smaller-scale adventures, often reminiscent of classic Western tales. The anime skillfully balances action with character development, creating a consistently engaging experience.
* Rurouni Kenshin (1996): This anime follows the legendary swordsman Himura Kenshin, who, despite his fearsome reputation, dedicates himself to a peaceful life. The series excels in its compelling characters and their relationships, particularly the charming dynamic between Kenshin and Kaoru. While the final filler arc is widely criticized, the core narrative remains a timeless classic.
* Yu Yu Hakusho (1992): A masterpiece of the shonen genre, *Yu Yu Hakusho* chronicles the adventures of Yusuke Urameshi, a delinquent resurrected to become a spirit detective. The anime boasts consistently excellent fight sequences, memorable characters, and an expansive story that progresses through several compelling arcs, including the iconic Dark Tournament.
* Cowboy Bebop (1998): Widely considered one of the greatest anime ever made, *Cowboy Bebop* follows a crew of bounty hunters navigating a futuristic world. Its blend of episodic adventures and a compelling overarching narrative, coupled with its iconic soundtrack and memorable characters, solidifies its place as a landmark achievement in animation.
* Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995): Transcending its mecha genre roots, *Neon Genesis Evangelion* delves into profound psychological themes, exploring trauma, abuse, and desperation within the context of a robot vs. alien storyline. Its dark and twisted narrative has cemented its status as a cultural phenomenon.
Comedy and Slice-of-Life:
* Kyou kara Ore wa!! (1996): This underappreciated comedic gem features the ultimate odd couple: two delinquents whose volatile relationship fuels hilarious antics and over-the-top brawls. The show’s enduring humor stems from its well-developed characters and their consistently outrageous situations.
* Kodocha (1996): Initially appearing as a lighthearted comedy focusing on the “boys vs. girls” dynamic, *Kodocha* unexpectedly delves into nuanced themes and tackles serious issues often avoided in other anime. The series masterfully balances humor and sincerity, creating a surprisingly complex and engaging narrative.
* Slayers (1995): Expertly blending fantasy, comedy, action, and romance, *Slayers* is defined by its brilliant protagonist, Lina Inverse. Her sharp wit, greed, and undeniable charm drive the series’ constantly high energy and fast pace. Despite later sequels failing to recapture the original’s magic, the first three seasons remain a high point for fantasy adventure anime.
* Great Teacher Onizuka (GTO) (1999): This shonen anime features Onizuka, a reformed delinquent who becomes an unexpectedly effective teacher. The show masterfully balances humor and drama, with Onizuka’s antics providing comedic relief while serious arcs tackle important issues such as bullying.
* Slam Dunk (1993): Though not as visually impressive as later basketball anime, *Slam Dunk* offers a more grounded and relatable approach to the sport, emphasizing the protagonist’s training and gradual improvement. Its humor and engaging characters make it a highly enjoyable watch, despite its premature ending.
Other Notable Entries:
* Sailor Moon (1992): Arguably the most popular shoujo anime worldwide, *Sailor Moon* significantly impacted the magical girl genre. Despite some aspects showing their age, its charm and endearing characters ensure its continued relevance.
* Romeo and the Black Brothers (1995): Adapted from a classic story, *Romeo and the Black Brothers* presents a surprisingly dark yet heartwarming tale of friendship and resilience, defying its seemingly simplistic premise. Though visually dated, its emotional core resonates deeply.
* Golden Boy (1995): A highly unconventional and overtly comedic OVA series, *Golden Boy* embraces its raunchy humor and dated animation style without apology. Its frantic energy and mature adolescent humor are sure to either appeal greatly or entirely miss the mark for viewers.
* Berserk (1997): While the 1997 adaptation only partially covers the manga’s story, it remains an enjoyable dark fantasy anime. It does a great job of showcasing the origins of Guts and Griffith, although reading the manga is highly recommended for a complete and superior experience.
* Dragon Ball Z (1989): Arguably the most internationally influential anime of all time, *Dragon Ball Z* holds a significant place in anime history, establishing Japanese animation on a global scale. Despite some pacing issues, its iconic characters, epic battles, and memorable moments remain deeply ingrained in the culture.
* Serial Experiments Lain (1998): A unique and thought-provoking anime that explores themes of identity and technology in a surreal and challenging manner. While not for everyone, its innovative storytelling and philosophical depth makes it a rewarding experience for those willing to engage with its complexities.
This list represents a fraction of the exceptional anime produced during the 1990s. These shows, through their unique styles, compelling characters, and innovative storytelling, have left an indelible mark on the anime landscape and continue to inspire and entertain audiences today.