This list originally published on the Marvelous Videos channel in July 19, 2024 brings 15 iconic and amazing anime from the 90s, promising to relive the golden age of this kind of animation with productions thar range from epic adventures to thought-provoking stories.
Some anime listed here are hugely popular even outside the “bubble”, while others not so much, but all of them surely captured hearts worldwide and shaped the industry.
So, let’s stop babbling and get ready to immerse yourself in nostalgia to explore some timeless works that left an enduring legacy!
Pokémon (1997)
Pokémon (1997), inspired by the 1996 game Pocket Monsters, follows Ash Ketchum and his loyal Pikachu on a quest to become Pokémon Masters. A global phenomenon, the anime hooked fans with its adventurous story, memorable characters, and over 18 types of supernatural creatures like fire and psychic Pokémon. Ash and Pikachu became pop culture icons, spawning games, live-action films, and a franchise worth $88 billion. Even after 27 years and 25 seasons, its childlike charm and universal appeal keep it a beloved classic.
Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)
Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996), the sequel to Dragon Ball, follows Goku, a Saiyan warrior, defending Earth with the mystical Dragon Balls that summon wish-granting dragon Shenron. Its 291 episodes, packed with jaw-dropping battles and slick choreography, exploded on the west on Cartoon Network’s Toonami. The series birthed spin-offs like Dragon Ball Z Kai and Dragon Ball Super, plus movies, games and a diverse merchandise galore. Goku’s epic fights against alien foes made it a cultural juggernaut for young adults.
Berserk (1997)
Berserk (1997), a 10-hour miniseries, chronicles Guts, a mercenary orphan turned feared warrior in a grim medieval world. Directed by Nao Takahashi with Susumu Hirasawa’s haunting score, it blends dark fantasy, horror, and psychological drama, exploring struggle, sacrifice, and evil under enigmatic leader Griffith. Despite some might find its animation simple, its intense story and moody atmosphere won fans over. A cult classic, Berserk remains a gripping dive into human darkness.
Yu Yu Hakusho (1992)
Yu Yu Hakusho (1992) kicks off with Yusuke Urameshi’s death while saving a child, earning him the role of spirit detective tackling supernatural cases. His arc from brash teen to empathetic hero mixes dark humor, action, and themes of death, friendship, and redemption. A massive hit, it sparked films, a live-action series, games, and merch. Its compelling characters and bold storytelling built a loyal fanbase, cementing its 90s legacy.
Sailor Moon (1992)
Sailor Moon (1992) follows Usagi, transformed by magical cat Luna into a guardian of love and justice who, alongside Mercury, Mars, Jupiter, Venus, and Tuxedo Mask, battles evil forces while finding herself. A cultural phenomenon, it redefined shoujo with themes of self-discovery and friendship, fueling a $1.5 billion franchise. Its vibrant heroines and thrilling fights still captivate fans, making it a timeless gem.
Cowboy Bebop (1998)
Cowboy Bebop (1998) tracks bounty hunters in 2071, led by Spike Spiegel, aboard the Bebop. With Jet Black, Faye Valentine, Edward, and corgi Ein, they chase space criminals while grappling with troubled pasts. It blends action, jazz, and sci-fi while tackling identity and purpose. It became a global hit, it inspired a 2021 live-action series and remains iconic for its deep narrative and slick style.
Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)
Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995) unfolds in a post-apocalyptic world where Shinji Ikari pilots Evangelion mechs against monstrous Angels. Summoned by his father to join a paramilitary force, Shinji faces trauma and the fate of humanity. Acclaimed for its story, animation, and direction, it grossed 700 billion yen and spawned films and games. Its psychological depth and bold visuals make it a landmark anime.
Digimon Adventure (1999)
Digimon Adventure (1999), sparked by a film in development, follows seven kids warped to a digital world via Digivices, teaming with Digimon monsters to fight enemies. Written by Satoru Nishizono and directed by Hiroyuki Kakudou, it rivaled Pokémon in the West. Aimed at ages 3-11, its unique premise and nostalgia made it a cult classic, with reboots and films keeping fans hooked.
Cardcaptor Sakura(1998)
CardcaptorSakura (1998) centers on Sakura Kinomoto, who accidentally unleashes the Clow Cards, gaining powers to recapture them, and each card holds unique magic but risks eternal enslavement. Outshining its manga, the shoujo hit blends fun and danger, redefining fantasy with Sakura’s charm and growth. Its magical vibe and strong storytelling made it a favorite among young viewers.
Fushigi Yugi (1995)
Fushigi Yugi (1995) follows Miaka Yuki and Yui Hongo, pulled into the book The Universe of the Four Gods in ancient China. Miaka, as Suzaku’s priestess, must gather seven warriors, while Yui, driven by jealousy, becomes Seiryu’s priestess and antagonist. A shoujo hit with romance and rivalry, it inspired films, games, and musicals. Its emotional depth left a lasting mark.
Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995)
Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995), the sixth Gundam installment, is a space opera about mech pilots battling space enemies to save Earth with epic fights and stunning animation that fueled a 102-billion-yen merchandise empire by 2022. Less known in the West than Star Wars, its futuristic vision and action keep it relevant nearly three decades later, thrilling Japanese fans.
Rurouni Kenshin (1996)
Rurouni Kenshin (1996), created by Nobuhiro Watsuki, tracks Kenshin Himura, a former assassin seeking redemption in Meiji-era Japan, teaching swordsmanship in Tokyo, and facing past foes with electrifying blade fights. The manga sold 70 million copies, and the anime’s historical drama and themes of forgiveness won global fans, making it a top-rated 90s hit.
Great Teacher Onizuka (1999)
Also known as GTO, Great Teacher Onizuka (1999-2000) is the hilarious anime series that spawned from the same name manga that follows Eikichi Onizuka, a former biker gang member turned teacher after a life-changing moment. His unorthodox methods win over students, blending comedy, drama, and civic lessons. With an 8.5 IMDb rating, it’s lauded for its redemption arc and quirky style, standing as one of the decade’s best feel-good anime.
Trigun (1998)
Trigun (1998) centers on Vash the Stampede, a gunslinger with a $60 billion bounty, dubbed the “Humanoid Typhoon.” Hunted by insurance agents, his mysterious past unfolds on a desert planet. Packed with action, moral dilemmas, and twists, its gripping backstory delivers goosebumps. A 90s gem, Trigun shines for its blend of mystery and heart.
Outlaw Star (1998)
Outlaw Star (1998), by Hajime Yatate and Takehiko Ito, is a space opera following Gene Starwind’s crew on the Outlaw Star, hunting the Galactic Leyline treasure. Guided by enigmatic Hilda, they seek Dragonite, a lightspeed energy source. Less iconic but beloved, it spawned novels and merch with its vibrant adventure, wrapping the list with a thrilling vibe.
Why the 90s anime legacy endures
As was the case in the 80s, the 90s were also a great era for anime, delivering stories that shaped generations with heart-pounding action, deep emotions, and unforgettable characters. These works didn’t just entertain, but also defined the cultural power of this kind of media and set a high bar for storytelling and animation.
Whether mainstream hits or cult gems, from Pokémon’s global craze to Evangelion’s raw psyche, these timeless classics can be rewatched many times and still remain a bundle of joy.
Now, share your favorite 90s anime memories in the comments to keep the nostalgia alive!
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