Let’s use our memory time machine and travel back to the ending years of the 20th century, a crucial time for anime, as it laid the foundation for the anime we know and love today. In this captivating journey, we will explore the vibrant world of old-school anime, delving into the unforgettable masterpieces that graced our screens before the turn of the millennium. Welcome to “The Best Old School Anime From 1999 And Before.”
The late ’90s marked a deciding and key era in the evolution of anime, when groundbreaking storytelling, innovative animation techniques, and imaginative worlds captivated audiences worldwide (For e.g., Ghibli Studio). These early works of art established the groundwork for the immense popularity and cultural impact anime enjoys today.
“The Best Old School Anime From 1999 And Before” serves as a nostalgic tribute to the anime classics that continue to inspire and resonate with fans across generations. From epic adventures to heartfelt dramas, from mind-bending science fiction to endearing slice-of-life tales, this list will surely explore a diverse range of genres that defined the anime landscape of the past.
Note: The availability of the animes varies from region to region and country.
Also Read: 61 Greatest Anime Characters Of All Time: From Heroes To Villains
1) Whisper Of The Heart
I’m starting the list with my personal favorite tale/movie, which easily defines and explains the term ‘Wholesome’ according me. Whisper of the Heart is a comforting and fascinating film that follows the story of a young and imaginative girl, Shizuku. She finds out that she has a passion for writing after coming across a wandering, curious cat. But, she is not confident and sure to pursue this dream.
In her journey of self-discovery, Shizuku befriends Seiji, who happens to be a gifted violin maker who understands and praises art and also inspires Shizuku to stretch her abilities. With their growing friendship and love, she gains the confidence to aspire to her dream and achieve it.
Whisper of the Heart is an inspiring maturing story that will move viewers of every age. The film shows the heart of adolescence, the struggle to identify one’s path, and the magic of pursuing one’s ambitions flawlessly. The animation is absolutely amazing, demonstrating Studio Ghibli’s concern for detail.
Whisper of the Heart was also the highest-grossing Japanese movie on the nation’s screen in 1995, generating 3.15 billion in overall ticket sales and generating 1.85 billion in distributing profit. It earned $34.9 million globally.
- Created by: Hayao Miyazaki, Yoshifumi Kondō
- Release Date: July 15, 1995
- Genre: Romantic, Drama
- Earned: $34.9 million
- Where to Watch: Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video
2) Doraemon
Doraemon is an iconic Japanese manga and anime series created by Fujiko F. Fujio. The plot centers around Doraemon, a robot cat from the 22nd century that travels through time to assist Nobita Nobi, a young boy. Doraemon helps Nobita handle his daily troubles, school-related issues, and other problems with his future gadgets and technologies.
They engage in extraordinary journeys packed with humor, friendship, and lessons for life with their friends, which include Shizuka, Suneo, and Gian, while also exploring imaginative worlds and dealing with difficulties with Doraemon’s smart devices.
Doraemon is a loved franchise that has won the hearts of countless individuals all throughout the world (including me). Each episode is made more interesting by the lively and colorful world they live in, which is filled with fascinating new advanced gadgets.
The television program’s focus on friendship, loyalty, and determination is what makes it both entertaining and educational, teaching its young audience necessary life lessons. Doraemon has become a cultural icon in Japan, and the nation’s Foreign Ministry selected him as its very first “anime ambassador” in 2008.
- Created by: Fujiko F. Fujio
- Release Date: December 1969 – Present
- Genre: Comedy, Science Fiction
- Earned: over $6.2 billion
3) Pokemon
Pokemon is a popular animated stuff with fans all around the world. The entire story focuses on Ash Ketchum, an aspiring teenager who aspires to be a Pokemon master(it’s not easy). Ash goes out on an exciting adventure with his cute, lovable, and electrically charged companion Pikachu, with the goal of capturing and training unique animals known as Pokémon.
Along his journey, he makes close bonds, faces difficult challenges, and goes to various places, each of which happens to be home to a different Pokemon creature. Pokemon is a massively successful franchise that has attracted followers for generations.
The battles between Pokémon are intense and strategic, adding to the story’s intensity and keeping you hooked to the TV.
Pokemon is largely identified as being the most successful video game adaptation of all time, having approximately 1,200 episodes produced and adopted for global tv markets, continuously showing in 192 countries around the world, as well as one of Netflix’s best-selling shows during 2016.
- Created by: Kunihiko Yuyama, Takeshi Shudo
- Release Date: April 1997 – present
- Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Comedy
- Earned: $76.4 billion
- Where to Watch: Pokémon TV, Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Pokémon TV Mobile App
4) Serial Experiments Lain
Serial Experiments Lain is among the anime series that dive into the difficult issues of one’s identity, reality, and the connection between technology and human existence. Lain Iwakura, a quiet and reserved high school student, becomes absorbed in the fascinating world of Wired, a global network that links people’s brains and blurs the lines between the digital and the real world.
Lain starts questioning her own life and struggles with her changing awareness of herself as she explores deeply the secrets of the Wired.
“Serial Experiments Lain” is a mind-bending movie that will make you doubt the truth about reality. Its creepy setting and disturbing imagery attract you into a world where the boundaries between both the real and the virtual are blurred. It is not, however, for everybody, as the complex plot and slow pace may be hard to understand for some viewers.
- Created by: Chiaki J. Konaka, Ryūtarō Nakamura
- Release Date: November 26, 1998
- Genre: Cyberpunk, Psychological Horror, Techno-horror
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
5) Dragon Ball
Dragon Ball is among the iconic series with even more memorable characters. The story follows a boy named Goku, who has a monkey tail. He, with his female companion Bulma, sets on a voyage to track down the 7 mystical Dragon Balls that have the power to summon the great dragon Shenron who fulfills the ultimate desire of the summoner.
On his journey, Goku befriends a lot more characters with different personalities and motives. You won’t stop yourself from laughing when you’ll complete the series and find out whose desire comes true and what it was.
Dragon Ball’s action-packed parts are one of its strongest factors. Undoubtedly, Dragon Ball is the most popular among old generations and the present and surely be remembered in the future for taking the anime industry to this height along with other movies.
According to Joseph Lustre of Otaku USA, Dragon Ball is “one of the most unforgettable animated action/comedy shows of all time.”
- Created by: Akira Toriyama
- Release Date: February 26, 1986 – April 19, 1989
- Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Martial Arts
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix
6) Princess Mononoke
Princess Mononoke is among the best masterpiece made by Hayao Miyazaki. The film follows the story of a young Emishi prince named Ashitaka, who is infected by a curse during a fight with an animal god turned evil. Now he is on a journey to get a cure from the forest spirit (the one above all).
Ashitaka gets into a struggle between the forest spirit and the people who consume its resources and wants her head. The film is dedicated to the great mother nature and how she cares, gives, and nurtures humans like a child, but what humans mingled in greed, hatred, and lust gives all is only destruction.
Apart from the storyline, what the film is famous for is its animation and detailing of the environment and surrounding. Especially the starting and ending scenes where the Boar god turns into the devil due to hatred in their heart.
Detailing and movement given to the big red worms that help turn evil are the animations that fascinate and make you feel frightened at the same time. Watch it.
- Created by: Hayao Miyazaki
- Release Date: July 12, 1997
- Genre: Historical, Fantasy, Supernatural
- Earned: $169.7 million
- Where to Watch: HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
7) Berserk
“Berserk” is a dark and serious television series adapted from Kentaro Miura’s manga. It is based on the life of Guts, a superb swordsman who had tragic past events. He gets drawn into a violent and cruel world ruled by demons, corrupt politicians, and his own vendettas.
Guts join talented Griffith’s Band of the Hawk, and along the way, they face immense challenges in their fight for control and life. Guts have to deal with his own heart and the evil that hides within as he faces his own demons and exterior enemies.
The animation perfectly portrays the story’s dark and brutal mood, engaging audiences in its frightening and brutal battles. The attention to detail in the character’s drawings makes it one of the animation’s most notable qualities.
Every character is unique and carefully designed, with detailed clothes and emotional facial features that bring them to life. The action scenes are powerful and well-choreographed, with smooth motions and powerful strikes.
- Created by: Yasuhiro Imagawa, Naohito Takahashi
- Release Date: October 8, 1997 – April 1, 1998
- Genre: Dark Fantasy, Epic Fantasy, Sword and Sorcery
- Earned: $395 million
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix
8) My Neighbor Totoro
My Neighbor Totoro is a heartwarming movie, again written and directed by one and only Hayao Miyazaki. Totoro is one of the most iconic forest spirits and characters by Studio Ghibli. It’s a beautiful and emotional film that perfectly conveys the magic and purity of young age.
The movie shows the story of two little sisters, Satsuki and Mei, set in rural Japan. Both, with their father, move to the countryside to stay close to their mother, who is ill with some disease and wants to be close to their family.
While exploring their new house and surrounding, they come in contact with our friendly forest spirit Totoro. The girls form a strong friendship with Totoro and go on wonderful journeys together, learning about the wonders of both nature and as well as the importance of imagination and family.
The animation is gorgeous, with amazing attention to detail and vibrant colors that bring the characters and environments to life.
- Created by: Hayao Miyazaki
- Release Date: April 16, 1988
- Genre: Fantasy
- Earned: $41 million
- Where to Watch: HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney +
9) Cowboy Bebop
Cowboy Bebop is regarded as one of the best stylish anime of all time. You can call it the gem of anime that stands the test of time. The story is set in a futuristic world, where we see the adventure of a group of bounty hunters called the Bebop crew from the spaceship called Bebop in search of criminals.
In their adventure, they meet interesting characters, discuss their prior issues, and make decisions that have their own after-effects that give us a watchable story. The anime is a perfect mixer a variety of topics, wow fighting scenes, and complex characters.
The whole series received a perfect score of 5 out of 5 stars from T.H.E.M. Anime Reviews, including reviewer Christina Carpenter calling Cowboy Bebop “one of the finest” and praising it as a superb piece of work that “places most anime and Hollywood to shame.”
The show has what we call emotional depth, thought-provoking actions, with an amazing jazz soundtrack which make it a must-watch for every anime fan and newbie.
- Created by: Hajime Yatate, Cain Kuga
- Release Date: September 18, 1997 – June 18, 1998
- Genre: Neo-noir, Science Fiction
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Funimation
10) Yu Yu Hakusho
Yusuke Uramesh is the protagonist of the series, an independent teenager with an attraction to getting into chaos. One chance is given to Yusuke to return to the human world as a Spirit Detective after risking his own life to save a kid.
He solves weird events and terrifying monster fights and discovers the dark mysteries of the Spirit World with the help of Kuwabara, Kurama, and Hiei. Yusuke has to manage the difficulties of friendship, love, and his very own destiny as he grows more powerful and fights against harder rivals.
With exciting combat and creative twists in the story, the series always keeps fans at the forefront of their seats. Despite the fact that partially dated, However, animation stays up and effectively brings the dramatic action scenes to life.
In 1994 and 1995, the animated series got the Animage Anime Grand Prix for best anime.
- Created by: Yoshihiro Togashi
- Release Date: December 3, 1990 – July 25, 1994
- Genre: Adventure, Martial arts, Supernatural
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Funimation, Crunchyroll, Netflix
11) Rurouni Kenshin
The story of this anime series is set in Japan during Meiji Era. The show offers us the story of Kenshin Himura, who happens to be an assassin in his past, popularly known as “Battosai the Manslayer,” like our Boogeyman, Mr. Wick.
After living a life filled with hatred, murder, blood, violence, and chaos, he promises to leave this sinful life and will protect the innocent and compensate for his misdeeds to god. He wields a reverse-blade sword and has vowed to help anyone who is in need.
It’s a great and emotionally intense anime that blends action, drama, and historical aspects flawlessly. The series’ well-choreographed combat with swords and violent conflicts attracts fans.
Despite being nearly old, the film’s animation interacts well enough with the movement and effect of the action-filled sequences. Chris Shepard of ANN also reacted to the anime, praising it for its carefully designed plot and fight scenes.
- Created by: Michiru Shimada, Kazuhiro Furuhashi
- Release Date: January 10, 1996 – September 8, 1998
- Genre: Adventure, Martial arts, Romance
- Earned: $37.3 million
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Funimation, Crunchyroll, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
12) Hunter x Hunter
The series follows the story of Gon Freecss, who gets to know that his father was a top-rated hunter, who used to hunt unique and rare animals, and treasures, used to explore unexplored and also catch criminals.
Gon comes to know that his father is alive and leaves him to pursue his dreams in the world of hunters. This is what sparks a fire in their heart of Gon, and he aspires to become Hunter like his father and will search for him. He befriends other characters, too, mainly Killua.
The main characters are well-developed and relatable, with everyone having their own set of goals, problems, and personal growth. The colorful animation brings the exciting combat to life while also displaying the natural beauty of the various places.
Although having a large number of episodes, “Hunter x Hunter” keeps a good level of entertainment and keeps viewers involved in the characters’ journeys. In simple words, it is a clear narrative with no fillers.
- Created by: Hiroshi Hashimoto, Noriyuki Abe
- Release Date: July 26, 1998
- Genre: Adventure, Fantasy, Martial arts
- Earned: $8.71 million
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu
13) Great Teacher Onizuka
Great Teacher Onizuka is a fun and motivational anime that will stay with you. The series perfectly combines humor and touching moments, providing an entirely new point of view
on schooling. The animated series follows Eikichi Onizuka, an ex-biker gang leader who becomes a teacher in high school and has his own goal of dating a high school lady.
Typical approaches to learning have been given up for the sake of an unusual combination of humor, silliness, and true moments of connection in this anime. Onizuka’s larger-than-life character, personality, and crazy teaching style make him a beloved and memorable character.
“Great Teacher Onizuka” is a precious stone, in my opinion, leaving you laughing, booing, and thinking about the strength of kindness and love. Watch it and prepare to be schooled in the most unlikely and incredible ways.
- Created by: Kazuhiko Yukawa, Hiroshi Akabane, Satoru Nakajima
- Release Date: July 7, 1998 – September 22, 1998
- Genre: Action, Comedy, Yankī
- Earned: $12 million
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Funimation, Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video
14) Mobile Suit Gundam Wing
Mobile Suit Gundam Wing is an epic anime in which the plot revolves around a squad of young pilots known as Gundam pilots that have been selected to operate the strong mobile suits known as Gundams. These high-level warriors are on a mission to establish peace and ruin dictatorships.
They start to effect change as they go through a complicated system of partnerships, lies, and personal and professional challenges, questioning the present status system and fighting for a better tomorrow.
The animation in “Mobile Suit Gundam Wing” is a visual feast, with mobile suits soaring through the cosmos, leaving trails of fiery brilliance in their wake. The attention to detail in the mecha designs is awe-inspiring, and the battles are a ballet of destruction and heroism.
- Created by: Katsuyuki Sumizawa, Masashi Ikeda, Shinji Takamatsu
- Release Date: April 7, 1995 – March 29, 1996
- Genre: Mecha, Military, Science fiction
- Earned: $49.795 million
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Funimation, Crunchyroll, Netflix
15) Neon Genesis Evangelion
By coincidence, a young boy named Shinji Ikari is chosen to control a massive robot called an Evangelion. Shinji’s mission is to save humanity from the unknown Angels who could destroy the world. While fighting these alien monsters, he suffers from the asuras within him, along with his self-worth.
A large group of people, both fellow pilots and staff members of the group NERV, face their very own personal struggles and troubles that follow Shinji. This anime is a dark masterwork that makes it unclassifiable and leaves you with existential questions even after the final scenes have gone.
It’s a reminder that often the most meaningful stories are the ones that require us to face difficult facts about ourselves.
- Created by: Hideaki Anno, Hideaki Anno, et al.
- Release Date: October 4, 1995 – March 27, 1996
- Genre: Apocalyptic, Mecha, Psychological drama
- Earned: $229.71 million
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Funimation
16) Akira
The plot focuses on the two best buddies, Kaneda and Tetsuo, who get mired in a net of government plots and strange powers. When Tetsuo acquires unusual psychic abilities, it starts off a series of incidents that threatens to destroy the city.
Kaneda and his team run into an anonymous hidden rebel group, deadly research, and a mysterious entity known as Akira as they discuss the dangerous neighborhoods of Neo-Tokyo.
We can call it a creative masterpiece that surpasses animation and takes you into an increased sense of discomfort and existential awe. You’re hooked on a crazy journey that challenges expectations and tests your view of what anime can do from the minute the first explosion goes down across Neo-Tokyo.
Akira got the Silver Scream Award during the Amsterdam Fantastic Film Festival in 1992. Akira became one of 4 finalists for the “Best Anime Feature” award at the 2007 American Anime Awards. However, it lost.
- Created by: Katsuhiro Otomo
- Release Date: July 16, 1988
- Genre: Adult, Cyberpunk, Action
- Earned: $80 million
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Funimation, Crunchyroll
17) Cardcaptor Sakura
Sakura Kinomoto, an intelligent and sympathetic elementary school student, is the main character of this anime series. Sakura discovers a mystical book in her basement one day and mistakenly releases a deck of magical cards known as Clow Cards into the world.
Sakura becomes a Cardcaptor with the assistance of her guardian, Keroberos, a little flying creature responsible for recovering the released cards. As Sakura begins her mission, she understands and discovers that every Clow Card has unique abilities.
You’re carried into a world of wonder and excitement the instant Sakura Kinomoto turns her wand and begins on her mission to catch the mysterious Clow Cards. “Cardcaptor Sakura” animations are a mix of brilliant colors and flexible motions.
Every episode presents a wonderfully designed novel, complete with visually appealing scenes that grab the reader’s attention.
- Created by: Morio Asaka
- Release Date: April 7, 1998 – March 21, 2000
- Genre: Magic, Fantasy, Adventure, and Slice-of-life
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Netflix
18) The Big O
The Big O is a captivating and mysterious anime series. The plot revolves around Roger Smith, a talented negotiator and a dominant figure known as a “Negotiator,” who has been tasked with sorting out problems and protecting the residents of the city.
But Paradigm(the city) has a dark secret, its citizen’s memories have been erased, and weird events known as “MegaDeus” attacks affect the peace. Roger finds a complex web of conspiracy, identity, and secret information as he investigates Paradigm’s buried past and the beginnings of the MegaDeus.
You’re transported into a world of lost memories, complex intrigues, and a city desperate to restore its forgotten identity the instant that legendary huge robot, the Big O, appears from the shadows.
With its dark color, depressing mood, and carefully detailed city of Paradigm, animation in “The Big O” is an excellent throwback to classic movie noir.
- Created by: Keiichi Sato, Kazuyoshi Katayama
- Release Date: July 1999 – October 2001
- Genre: Mecha, Neo-noir, Tech-noir
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Funimation, Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video
19) Ghost in the Shell
The anime takes place in the future, where technologies have grown to a level where humans may simply link their brains to the virtual world. Major Motoko Kusanagi, a robotic agent, heads an elite task unit known as Section 9 in the story. Their aim is to fight cybercrime and defend society from the growing dangers of hacking and AI.
Major Kusanagi goes into a world where the lines between human and machine are blurred as she hunts an unknown hacker called the Puppet Master. She troubles her own identity and her own state of consciousness as she explores further.
Every frame is a work of beauty, transporting you into a universe where the digital and physical worlds combine harmoniously. The haunting soundtrack of the anime, combined with the dramatic narration, generates a sense of fear and curiosity.
“Ghost in the Shell” runs the borders of human understanding in this future world where technology rules the final authority, giving a glimpse inside a future that might not be so far away.
- Created by: Kenji Kamiyama
- Release Date: 1 October 2002 – 8 January 2005
- Genre: Cyberpunk, Spy, Thriller
- Earned: $10 million
- Where to Watch: Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Funimation
20) The Vision of Escaflowne
Hitomi Kanzaki, a high school girl, becomes transported to the wondrous planet of Gaea in the anime. In this fresh world, she ends up involved in a conflict between the countries of Zaibach and Fanelia, in which huge humanoid mecha known as Guymelefs participate in incredible fights.
As Hitomi makes her journey across this strange world, she meets a fascinating list of people, such as the daring warrior Van Fanel & mysterious knight Allen Schezar. They work together to reveal Gaea’s truths and find a solution for Hitomi to get back home.
This classic anime grabs all of your senses and moves your feelings from the instant the gigantic mecha, Guymelefs, collide in epic combat to the gentle times of sadness and feelings of longing.
With its beautiful sceneries, detailed character designs, and superbly executed action sequences, “The Vision of Escaflowne” animation is a visual show in one line.
- Created by: Shōji Kawamori, Kazuki Akane
- Release Date: October 24, 1994 – November 26, 1997
- Genre: Fantasy, Isekai, Mecha, Romance
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Funimation, Crunchyroll, Amazon Prime Video
21) Tenchi Muyo!
“Tenchi Muyo!” is an interesting anime series that shows the life of Tenchi Masaki, a young kid. Tenchi lives an ordinary life in rural Japan until one day when he discovers a secret tunnel in his grandfather’s temple, and everything takes a strange turn.
Tenchi accidentally awakens a group of beautiful and magnificent alien princesses. Everyone has their own unique talents and personalities inside the cave. These princesses, along with a crazy space pirate, immediately become an integral part of Tenchi’s daily life, bringing with them plenty of fun and chaos.
This famous anime series creates a complex network of interplanetary adventures, amazing characters, and unexpected turns that will leave you wanting more.
“Tenchi Muyo!” hammers the heart of what makes anime so appealing. It combines supernatural parts with genuine human emotions, creating a one-of-a-kind blend that hooks you from the very first episode.
- Created by: Masaki Kajishima, Hiroki Hayashi
- Release Date: December 16, 1994 – June 9, 2000
- Genre: Comedy, Harem, Space, Opera
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Crunchyroll, Hulu, RetroCrush
22) Digimon: Digital Monsters
The plot revolves around a group of children who find little electronic devices known as Digivices, which transfer them into the digital realm known as the Digital World. In this Digital World, the children meet and befriend digital animals known as Digimon, each with its own set of abilities and characteristics.
As they fight jointly for the safety of both the Digital World & the Real World from numerous threats, these Digimon become friends and comrades. Through fights and challenges, the kids and their Digimon grow and get stronger as the story goes on.
With its creative plot, connecting characters, and a planet working with colorful creatures, this famous animated series has captured the hearts of viewers all around the world, like the Pokemon series.
Every season offers a new group of children and Digimon, feeding us with info on various aspects of the Digital World and the people who live there. This not only allows for new plots but also allows for the study of different topics and problems ensuring that the television series never becomes old.
- Created by: Akiyoshi Hongo, Mamoru Hosoda, Hiroyuki Kakudō
- Release Date: March 6, 1999
- Genre: Adventure, Isekai
- Earned: $16.6 million
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Tubi
23) Castle in the Sky
Sheeta, a young girl, and Pazu, a young boy, are set on an incredible adventure in a beautiful world in this award-winning film. The movie takes us on a journey filled with mystery, dangerous circumstances, and incredible beauty by Sir Miyazaki.
Sheeta has an interesting piece of crystal jewelry that both pirates and government officials demand. When Sheeta and Pazu meet, they discover that Sheeta’s pendant carries the key to Laputa, the famous floating city. They set out on an expedition to find this mysterious city.
It’s a visual marvel with amazing animation which brings Laputa’s world to life. “Castle in the Sky”‘s animation is an example of Studio Ghibli’s expertise as well as care for detail. “Castle in the Sky” is a timeless masterpiece that appeals to both adults and children due to its fascinating story, rare characters, and beautiful illustrations like other works of the studio.
- Created by: Hayao Miyazaki
- Release Date: August 2, 1986
- Genre: Fantasy, Adventure
- Earned: $16 million
- Where to Watch: HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+
24) Case Closed
“Case Closed,” popularly known as “Detective Conan,” is an anime as well as a manga series that shows the adventures of a young investigator named Shinichi Kudo. The action begins when Shinichi, a talented high school student, gets drugged by an unknown organization and transformed into a little boy.
Shinichi continues his investigative work as Conan Edogawa while looking for a solution that will return to his natural appearance. Each episode or chapter introduces a fresh, exciting case, ranging from a locked-room mystery to complicated murder conspiracies like our modern-day hero, Sherlock Holmes.
“Case Closed” encourages fans to piece together clues, analyze evidence, and apply their own detective abilities in order to find the truth, from what seems like locked-room murders to mind-bending puzzles.
- Created by: Kenji Kodama
- Release Date: January 8 – August 12, 1996
- Genre: Mystery, Thriller
- Earned: $100 million
- Where to Watch: Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+
25) Kiki’s Delivery Service
Kiki’s Delivery Service is a beautiful and magical animated movie about a little witch called Kiki and her struggle for freedom. The movie follows Kiki as she leaves her home at the young age of 13 to learn her special skills and discover her place in the world in an age where witches live.
Kiki moves to a coastal town with her speaking cat, Jiji, and opens a delivery service on her flying broom. She utilizes her supernatural skills to deliver parcels and assist the people of the town.
Kiki faces the obstacles that come with growing up and discovering her own identity as she handles the highs and lows when managing her delivery service. Miyazaki’s careful focus on detail can be seen in every frame, with lively animation and a wonderful landscape that generates an emotion of fun and nostalgia.
The lovely town, busy streets, and adrenaline rush giving air flights by Kiki combine to provide a visually unforgettable experience.
- Created by: Hayao Miyazaki
- Release Date: July 29, 1989
- Genre: Fantasy
- Earned: $40 million
- Where to Watch: Netflix, HBO Max, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+
26) Sailor Moon
It follows the heroic actions of Usagi Tsukino, a young girl who changes into the superhero Sailor Moon. The story starts in present-day Tokyo when Usagi meets a talking cat named Luna, who explains her purpose as a protector of justice.
Each Sailor Guardian comes with specific skills and is associated with a celestial body in our solar system. “Sailor Moon” has an especially special place in the memories of fans all around the world, and there are a number of factors why it is regarded as one of the best old-school anime series.
“Sailor Moon” revolutionized the magical girl category, establishing the stage for future series of anime in this genre. It promoted the idea of ordinary girls evolving into powerful heroines who use their inner power and bravery to save the world. The show opened the path for other classic magical girl shows, thus becoming a genre founder.
- Created by: Junichi Sato
- Release Date: March 7, 1992 – February 8, 1997
- Genre: Magical girl
- Earned: $13 billion
- Where to Watch: Hulu, Crunchyroll, Netflix
27) Outlaw Star
The story is about Gene Starwind, an attractive and clever rebel, and his companions as they begin on adventurous missions around the galaxy. Gene’s life undergoes an unexpected turn when he meets a mysterious woman named Hilda. She employs him and his sidekick, Jim Hawking, to guard her as they seek the famous Galactic Leyline.
The Leyline is supposed to have unimaginable power and mysteries, drawing the attention of many different groups, such as pirates, killers, and competing bounty-hunting organizations.
The space wars, dramatic fight sequences, and advanced technology are all wonderfully provided, as well as fully involving viewers in what’s happening. The animation’s attention to detail gives richness and depth to the series’ severe scenes.
- Created by: Hajime Yatate, Takehiko Itō
- Release Date: September 20, 1996 – May 20, 1999
- Genre: Adventure, Space opera, Space Western
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Hulu, Crunchyroll
28) Lupin III
The series is about the attractive legendary thief Arsène Lupin III and his fellow team’s adventure and missions. Lupin III is one of the stylish and clever thieves who excels in stealing unique items from around the world, based on a classic French literary character.
Lupin III and his team face new challenges in each episode as they seek famous assets, secret objects, as well as important prizes. With his criminal nature, Lupin III has a code of ethics and often seeks corrupt persons, making him a charming criminal who steals his audience’s hearts.
The series is full of a cast of iconic and unforgettable characters who have become popular figures in the anime community till day if you talk about Lupin. Lupin III” was a groundbreaking animation series that pushed the boundaries and challenged standards.
It offered a fresh and uncommon take on the robbery concept. Due to its popularity, the series had a significant impact on the anime industry, inspiring numerous artists and impacting their future series.
- Created by: Masaaki Ōsumi, Hayao Miyazaki, Isao Takahata
- Release Date: October 24, 1971 – March 26, 1972
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Comedy, Crime.
- Earned: $11 million
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix
29) Trigun
Trigun features Vash the Stampede, an excellent one of its kind gunman with a bad reputation. Vash goes from town to town in a world after the apocalypse, creating a trail of mess and destruction left in his wake. However, he is not what he appears to be.
Vash, irrespective of his inhumane reputation, is a kind peacemaker who values life above all else. He avoids murder at all costs, especially when dealing with deadly villains. This creates an awkward situation in which people either view him as a savior or a destroyer.
As Vash’s past becomes more and more clear, it becomes evident that he is being searched for by the Gung-Ho Guns, a system of experienced assassins. Trigun has visually amazing and adrenaline-pumping fight scenes.
The powerful and unforgettable action scenes are created by the exciting gunfights, Vash’s special talent, and his creative usage of weapons. “Trigun” is a must-see series that will make a long-lasting mark on anyone who loves a high level of gunfights, interesting ideas, or exciting growth in characters.
- Created by: Yasuhiro Nightow
- Release Date: 1998
- Genre: Science fiction, Western, Action, and Drama.
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Funimation, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, Netflix, Crunchyroll
30) Yu-Gi-Oh!
This is one of the most popular anime in card games. It explores the story of Yugi Muto, a teenager in high school who finds himself caught in a world that includes ancient Egyptian artifacts, creatures of magic, and strategic card fights.
The adventure leads with Yugi completing the Millennium Puzzle, a historic artifact that gives him to gain access to the soul of Yami Yugi, an Egyptian Pharaoh. In situations of need, Yami Yugi takes over Yugi’s body and assists him in many difficult situations.
The Duel Monsters card game provides the main focus of “Yu-Gi-Oh!” The characters’ skill to make their moves, use different personal techniques, and fool their opponents gives us an entertaining and cool watching experience.
“Yu-Gi-Oh!” has amazing animation, especially when watching the duels, which bring to life luminous things and magic effects, which gave an advertisement of the anime card, making it a profitable franchise.
- Created by: Kazuki Takahashi
- Release Date: September 30, 1996 – March 8, 2004
- Genre: Fantasy, Action, Adventure, and Card games.
- Earned: $29 million
- Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Crunchyroll, Hulu, Tubi, YouTube
31) Perfect Blue
Perfect Blue happens to be one of the sad and most thrilling anime of all time out there. It tells the story of Mima Kirigoe, a rising pop idol Mima who settles to go after an interest as an actress and leaves her singing team to do so. Strange and unexpected occurrences begin to take place as she starts her acting career.
Mima’s life takes a nasty change when she becomes the focus of a stalker who stalks all of her actions obsessively. Mima’s vision of reality begins to confuse as the stalker’s acts become more to fear from. As she tries to differentiate between what is genuine and what is made up, she starts questioning her own identity and health.
The main plot of the film is gluing and suspenseful, going into the mental health of the main characters. It explores the impact of popularity on an individual’s emotional and mental health and even the fight to keep a sense of self in the face of societal expectations.
The film gained major praise from critics for its storyline, direction, and psychological study. It has a devoted fan base and is often considered an anime filmmaking classic.
- Created by: Satoshi Kon
- Release Date: 28 February 1998
- Genre: Psychological, Thriller, Suspense, Mystery, and Drama.
- Earned: $7.68 million
- Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
32) Golden Boy
“Golden Boy” is among the best-remembered anime series like GTO that follows the adventures of Kintaro Oe, an energetic and excited student. Kintaro is somewhat of a nomad who is on a mission to learn more about life and earn skills in a number of areas.
Kintaro starts a new job or faces a new difficulty in every episode. He is a teacher, computer technician, race car mechanic, and many other working professionals. Kintaro gets important lessons and inculcates a practical understanding of many different fields while traveling.
While Kintaro can be careless at times and get himself into unexpected situations, he always follows his duties with passion and a hunger to learn. With just six episodes, “Golden Boy” continues to be a tight and focused story.
He wants to give everything he has and never gives up, even when the situations may get rough, such as the unforgettable race event in which he bicycles on electrical wires and falls down a cliff while attempting to jump through the road gaps, yet survives and keeps pedaling his bicycle.
- Created by: Tatsuya Egawa
- Release Date: 27 October 1995 – 96
- Genre: Comedy, Ecchi, and Romance
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Funimation, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
33) Flame of Recca
Recca Hanabishi, a young ninja, is the main character of the series. Recca carries a unique talent, and she can make and control fires. He desires to be the world’s best ninja. Recca meets an interesting girl called Yanagi Sakoshita one day who has the ability to recover from any disease.
Recca, in order to protect Yanagi, joins her in the deadly “Tournament of the Flame.” Recca and his teammate players must participate in this competition with opponents who have unique and amazing special abilities, like in the martial arts story of BAKI and Kengan Ashura.
Battles need not only physical power but also clever strategies and clever planning. The series offers a variety of fighting styles that point out each character’s creative thinking and talents, as talked about in the sentence before it.
Viewers could witness the development of not just the main character, Recca, but also the supporting cast.
- Created by: Nobuyuki Anzai
- Release Date: 19 July 1997 – 10 July 1998
- Genre: Action, Adventure, Fantasy, and Martial arts.
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, Tubi
34) Slam Dunk
It is one of the exciting anime that follows the story of Hanamichi Sakuragi, a tall and powerful high school student who has a quick temper problem. Hanamichi’s life takes an unexpected turn when he falls in love/attracted to a girl called Haruko, who happens to be a huge basketball lover.
Hanamichi joins the Shohoku High School basketball team in an effort to get the attention of Haruko and win her love. He immediately accepts that he has many things to find out about the sport. Hanamichi gets to come before a variety of problems when he begins to play basketball, such as improving his talents, coordinating with his other players, and dealing with strong opponents.
Hanamichi’s love for the sport builds over the series, and he develops a desire to become the very best basketball player he’s capable of being. Basketball tournaments are shown in an exciting and satisfying way, displaying the sport’s talents, methods, and teamwork, similar to famous sports series like Haikyu, Blue Lock, etc., in our present era.
The characters’ relationships and bonds establish an intense emotional connection with the viewers. “Slam Dunk” has had a large cultural influence in Japan and worldwide. It was helpful in promoting basketball in Japan and inspired many people to participate in the sport.
- Created by: Takehiko Inoue
- Release Date: 16 October 1993 – 23 March 1996
- Genre: Sports, Comedy, and Drama.
- Earned: unknown
- Where to Watch: Crunchyroll, VRV, Hulu
35) Porco Rosso
Porco Rosso was actually the top film in the Japanese market in 1992, collecting 2.8 billion in distributing rentals with 5.4 billion in total documents, which was roughly $43,000,000 at the time of its release.
“Porco Rosso” is described as one of the fascinating and exciting animated pictures of an incredible pilot known as Porco Rosso. Porco Rosso isn’t a regular pilot—he’s been changed into a pig! (Miyazaki loves Pig)
This story shows Porco Rosso as he travels across the sky in his red aircraft, protecting the skies from dangerous air pirates. Porco Rosso becomes a hero for his brave and excellent flying, safeguarding poor people, and displaying his extraordinary aerial actions.
Porco Rosso, the movie’s important character, is a pig-turned-pilot, which is an interesting and creative concept. “Porco Rosso” transports us on a beautiful adventure that teaches us to accept our uniqueness, chase what we want, and avoid judging a book by its cover.
- Created by: Hayao Miyazaki
- Release Date: July 18, 1992
- Genre: Fantasy, Aviation, and Drama.
- Earned: $44 million
- Where to Watch: HBO Max, Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Disney+
Also Read: 35 Must Watch Anime In June 2023: Popular Shows In the Recent Times
