For millions of people around the world, anime has been a constant part of their lives since they can remember. Although the genre's popularity in the Western world did not see its most drastic increase among audiences until recent years, its impact on recent generations is undeniable. Fans all over the world remember coming home from school and tuning in to watch their favorite Shonen heroes fight for justice, peace and friendship.
As such, it's not out of the question to assume that a large portion of anime fans who grew up in the 2000s had similar tastes in shows. Since the adventure genre reigned supreme during those years, it can also be concluded that anime that fit under that category are indeed among the most popular. But among the dozens of series fans enjoyed growing up, only a handful have the intriguing story, charming cast, and memorable moments that can be considered among the best.
35 Best Anime of the 90s, Ranked
The 1990s were a great time for anime, and several series from the era are still popular today. Here are the best anime from that decade.
Pokémon
Inspired by the greatest video game franchise of all time Pokémon Anime has been an icon of the industry for more than 25 years, and its success among viewers is entirely thanks to Ash and his loyal Pikachu. Although their relationship got off to a rocky start, as the Pokémon refused to listen to its trainer, the duo has become one of the best and most iconic friendships in anime. Millions of fans remember cheering on the duo as they chased Ash's dream of becoming the Pokémon champion.
Seeing the main character go from a rookie coach who made stupid mistakes to one of the best coaches of all time was a true inspiration to entire generations of kids. Ash was part of great and exciting adventures, visited several different places and met new friends and enemies. From their humble beginnings during Indigo League anime to the battle for the future of the Sinnoh region in Galactic battlesfans have plenty of 2000s Pokemon seasons to enjoy.
Digimon Adventure
One of the most interesting aspects of Adventure anime is traveling to new and mysterious places with the heroes. What could be more interesting for children of the 21st century to discover than a world made of nothing but data, where giant monsters live and fight for survival? That exact premise is what had so many fans captivated by the original Digimon Adventure.
This series had everything a kid could ask for at the time: funny moments, emotional scenes that moved them to tears, and epic battles between some of the best designed monsters in anime. Digimon Adventure was a show that stood out for its unique approach to children's television, dealing with darker and grittier subject matter than other franchises. Its refusal to see the audience as inherently incapable of understanding complex concepts helped the show create a rich and profound narrative.
Dragon Ball Z
Speaking of classics, there are some worthy titles that have helped anime establish itself as a behemoth of entertainment. But objectively speaking, none of them have been as iconic and beloved as Dragon Ball Zeasily one of the best Shonen of all time. The intergalactic adventures of Goku as an adult were not only a beautiful continuation of Akira Toriyama's original concept, but also a defining feature of the turn of the century.
Every '90s Dragon Ball Z movie, ranked from worst to best
The 90s gave us some of the best Dragon Ball Z movies. This is how they all rank.
Few franchises in existence have the reach and impact of that Dragon Ball Z has had since the early 2000s. The revelation that Goku is an alien, the journey to Planet Namek, and even the series' signature Super Saiyan transformations are among many fans' past memories. Dragon Ball Z had a great impact on the Western world, but nowhere as much as in Latin America, where it can be considered part of the culture to this day.
Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel monsters
The concept of adventure anime tends to bring memories of hard journeys and monumental battles between creatures that have more power than it is possible to imagine. Nevertheless, there are times when adventure does not require the heroes to prove their strength in battle, and no series is a better example than the legendary Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel monsters. This is the show that started it all and spawned one of the most beloved franchises in anime.
Yugi and Atem's battle against the forces of darkness is still fondly remembered by 21st century kids who sat in front of the television waiting to see what new monsters would be called to the field. Duel monsters may not have been full of thrilling physical combat, but the show's best duels, like Atem's legendary showdown against Marik, proved that hand-to-hand combat wasn't always necessary to create an unforgiving experience.
One Piece
Sail to a world full of mystery, beauty and some of the most powerful pirates in history by accompanying Luffy on his adventures. In the early 2000s, a happy and exciting anime took the world by storm, becoming one of the top contenders in just a few months. That series was none other than the adaptation by Eiichiro Odas One Piece. The race for the titular treasure left behind by Gol D. Roger promised not only excitement but also a colorful world to explore.
Who is that character?
Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.
Start
Identify the silhouettes before time runs out.
Easy (7.5s) Medium (5.0s) Hard (2.5s) Permadeath (2.5s)
From the very beginning, fans were captivated not only by the adorable Straw Hat crew members, but also by the story. Oda's work deals with themes of death, corruption and freedom in a way that not only resonates with viewers but also revives their hope in the world. It is precisely for this reason that One Piece anime has remained among the most popular and successful for more than 2 decades, and it doesn't seem to be stopping anytime soon.
Whiten
Exploring the mortal world isn't the only thing Adventure anime allowed fans in the early 2000s. As an example, the alien mission Ichigo went through during the run of the original Whiten anime series. Among other aspects, this adaptation of Tite Kubo's manga became widely popular with audiences thanks to its new approach to the Shonen genre. The main character was not a loud and energetic boy who wanted to fulfill his destiny.
Ichigo was not happy about his situation; he was somewhat rude, but still he would never abandon the needy. The hidden world of spirits introduced to viewers as the hero's journey truly began was fascinating to explore, as every corner hid a mystery to be solved in the future. The choreography of the sword fights was also top notch, as expected from a show featuring some of the best swordsmen in anime history. The series has struggled a bit in recent years, but fans of the love affair feel like it will never go away.
Naruto
Children of the 21st century grew up watching a plethora of different types of fighters showcase their abilities on screen. From martial artists to huge monsters, each of these groups left a mark on audiences that still burns to this day. Nevertheless, among the most successful is perhaps what can be considered the greatest modern anime series, Naruto. The story of Konoha's future Hokage became an overnight sensation among international fans almost as soon as it was announced.
From there, the series would go on to not only change the perception of ninjas in pop culture, but also redefine what a Shonen could be. Naruto wasn't afraid to humanize its characters, even the mightiest of villains. It is a story of hardships, determination, but above all hope for the future. There's a reason why fans continue to sing the blonde ninja's praises, and there are more than enough reasons why the show deserves it.
Inuyasha
Due to the fascination anime fans have with Japan, it's no surprise that shows that allow them to better explore the country and its history are so popular. And what better way to learn about the nation's past than to go on an amazing journey with a half-demon and the reincarnation of her former lover? Inuyasha is by far one of the best Shojo anime ever produced, and its popularity among fans of all ages proves it.
The series is a perfect blend of sweet romantic scenes with action-packed battles that can satisfy even the most strict fans. It truly is a love story for the ages that has inspired countless other shows since it began airing. Fans lucky enough to follow the series since its inception fondly remember the adventures and landscapes that feudal Japan had to offer them, while providing them with a romantic story they will never forget.
