The 90s created some of the greatest anime ever, from Vision Of Escaflowne to Berserk, Cowboy Bebop, Dragon Ball Z, and Trigun.
The 1990s wasn’t just another decade; it was an era where creators pushed the boundaries of storytelling, delving into complex character developments, intricate plots, and mind-bending themes.
The graphics may not have been as polished as today’s standards, and the methods might have been more traditional, but the rawness and authenticity of these tales have made them timeless.
90s Anime Aesthetic
From adrenaline-pumping action sequences to heart-wrenching love stories and philosophical problems that would make anyone’s head spin, the 1990s was a decade where anime wasn’t afraid to push boundaries, both in storytelling and animation.
1994 was my personal favorite for anime.
Highlights from 1994 in Anime:
- Pom Poko by Studio Ghibli: Emphasizing environmental issues.
- Street Fighter movie: An adaptation of the renowned video game series.
- Marmalade Boy: A beloved school-based series.
- You’re Under Arrest (YUA): A unique take on police narratives.
To the golden era – let’s rewind and relive!
Perfect Blue
Watch on: Prime Video, Crunchyroll,
Perfect Blue is a seminal work of the 1990s, directed by Satoshi Kon. It’s an anime film that pushes the boundaries of storytelling, blending reality with illusion to create a psychological thriller that delves deep into the complexities of identity, fandom, and the darker sides of the entertainment industry.
- 90s Horror Anime: “Perfect Blue” stands out as a prime example.
- Psychological Thriller: Centers on the deteriorating mental state of protagonist Mima Kirigoe.
- Transitioning Career: Mima, a former pop idol, shifts to an acting role and faces haunting challenges.
- Intense Horror Elements: The film showcases suspenseful and disturbing scenes.
- Deep Psychological Twists: Amplifies the horror throughout the narrative.
Samurai Pizza Cats (1990–1991)
Watch on: Tubi TV
The 1990s bore witness to a slew of unforgettable anime, and among them was the whimsical “Samurai Pizza Cats.” This series is a delightful amalgamation of humor, action, and the undeniable charm that the 90s anime aesthetic brought to the table.
- “Samurai Pizza Cats” primarily falls under action-comedy.
- The series stands out due to its distinctive blend of elements.
- It combines traditional samurai themes with futuristic and anthropomorphic features.
- A notable aspect: the infusion of pizza into its narrative, reflecting its quirky title.
- The genre fuses historical samurai drama influences with modern and western elements.
- The 90s animation style is vibrant and full of energy.
- It effectively showcases the lively nature of its cat protagonists and their foes.
- The series presents a world merging robotic animals with classic Japanese backdrops.
Marmalade Boy
Watch on: Crunchyroll, Apple TV
Marmalade Boy captivated me from the start. Miki, the protagonist, navigates life with her quirky parents. When they introduce her to another couple, her world twists as she gains a step-brother and two step-parents.
Determined, Miki teams with her “new brother” to thwart their parents’ absurd plan to divorce, swap partners, and remarry. However, her new brother appears indifferent. To top it all, Miki hadn’t anticipated Yuu being so handsome!
Outlaw Star (1998–2001)
Watch on: Prime Video
I first caught this series on Cartoon Network, and it immediately stood out, rivaling favorites like Gundam Wing and Escaflowne. I genuinely enjoyed its humor. Naturally, I had to add it to my collection. After purchasing the entire DVD set, my appreciation deepened. The inclusion of previously unseen scenes was a fantastic bonus.
Outlaw Star is a space-faring anime adventure that aired from 1998 to 2001. It’s a series that dives deep into science fiction, combining elements of space opera, western, and martial arts genres.
- Features high-tech space battles.
- Integrates Tao magic and space martial arts.
- Uses unique “Caster Guns” that shoot magical shells.
- Space warriors possess near-supernatural combat abilities.
- Colorful characters like:
- Cat-girl bio-android Melfina, the Outlaw Star’s navigator.
- Mysterious assassin Twilight Suzuka.
- Outlaw “Hot Ice” Hilda.
You’re Under Arrest
Watch on: Tubi TV
In 1994, the anime scene was enriched with several notable titles. Studio Ghibli graced audiences with “Pom Poko,” a compelling tale emphasizing environmental concerns.
One can’t forget the hidden gem that year, the mini-series “You’re Under Arrest (YUA).” Rather than the stereotypical police narratives filled with good-cop/bad-cop dynamics, homicides, kidnappings, and covert ops, this series offered a fresh perspective.
Mobile Suit Gundam Wing
Watch on: Crunchyroll
When discussing the 90s mecha anime landscape, “Mobile Suit Gundam Wing” is undoubtedly one of the era’s most iconic and influential series.
First aired in 1995, this installment in the long-standing Gundam franchise brought a new twist to the mecha genre and garnered a dedicated fan base that continues to celebrate it.
- Original Gundam premiered in 1979.
- Landmark series for its portrayal of Mecha.
- First to depict Mecha as simple fighting machines, akin to tanks or fighter jets.
- Previous Mecha shows treated machines as characters, albeit mute and unintelligent.
- Gundam introduced a significant change in this portrayal.
Tenchi Muyo! (1992–2005)
Watch on: Funimation
Tenchi Muyo! is a classic anime series that started in the early 1990s and has left its mark on the anime landscape. It’s an eclectic blend of science fiction, harem elements, and comedy, offering viewers an entertaining and sometimes heartwarming experience.
- Tenchi Muyo! is notable for its harem setup.
Series features multiple female characters:
- Aliens
- Goddesses
- Royalty
These characters become obsessed with Tenchi.
Their romantic entanglements and rivalries:
- Drive the comedic elements of the show.
Cardcaptor Sakura (1998–2000)
Watch on: NetFlix
Cardcaptor Sakura, created by the manga group CLAMP, is one of the most beloved entries in the magical girl genre. It was aired towards the tail-end of the 90s and the dawn of the new millennium. While it’s known for its magical themes and card-based adventures, the series is equally recognized for its nuanced approach to relationships and romance.
- “Cardcaptor Sakura” possesses significant romantic themes.
- The series is distinguished by its diverse exploration of love.
- It explores various types of affection:
- Platonic
- Familial
- Romantic
- Each form of love is portrayed with sensitivity and depth.
Romance is balanced with:
- Action
- Friendship
- Personal growth
- Magical adventures
Sailor Moon (1992–1997)
Sailor Moon is not just a name; it’s a symbolic figure that ruled the 90s anime landscape. This series redefined the magical girl genre with its unique blend of romance, action, drama, and humor. But more than anything else, its predominantly female character cast set it apart and made waves internationally.
Diverse Female Cast: Each Sailor Guardian had her distinct personality, struggles, and backstory, representing a broad spectrum of femininity. From the studious Ami Mizuno (Sailor Mercury) to the fiery Rei Hino (Sailor Mars), everyone had a character to identify with.
Slam Dunk
Watch on: Funimation, Crunchyroll, Hulu, Tubi TV
Basketball has always captivated me, and witnessing the fervor for the game in the series is genuinely exhilarating. Observing characters from varied backgrounds and challenges come together as a cohesive team to dominate the court is truly inspiring.
- Anime Excellence: “Slam Dunk” excels in passion, comedy, plot, and execution.
- Central Character: Hanamichi Sakuragi, a 1st-year high school student.
- Initial Perspective: Disliked basketball.
- Motivation: Joined the team to woo Haruko, his crush.
- Transition: From indifference to deep passion for basketball, becoming a key player.
- Critique: Disappointed the comic book’s original storyline wasn’t completed in the series.
Record of the Lodoss War (1990–1991)
Record of Lodoss War is a revered title in the annals of anime, particularly among fans of high fantasy narratives. Premiering in the early 90s, it stands as one of the genre’s key forerunners in the realm of Japanese animation.
Setting: The story is set on the island of Lodoss, dubbed “The Accursed Island” due to its tumultuous history filled with wars, dragons, and dark magic.
- Renowned Anime: “Record of Lodoss War” (OAV version) ranks among top-tier series.
- Quality Presentation: Notable attention to detail and exceptional execution.
- Character Excellence: Series’ standout feature.
- One Drawback: Limited to 13 episodes, leaving viewers curious about the story’s continuation.
Yu Yu Hakusho: Ghost Files (1992–1995)
I caught “Yu Yu Hakusho: Ghost Files” on Cartoon Network right after school when I was younger. Yusuke’s bold and fearless demeanor resonates with me, even if I don’t share the same attitude.
- Yusuke Urameshi: a teenage delinquent.
- Unexpected death: saves a child from a car.
- Afterlife dilemma: unanticipated early departure, no designated place for him.
- New role: becomes a “Spirit Detective.”
- Responsibility: investigates supernatural occurrences in the human world.
- Results: often leads to intense, action-filled confrontations.
Princess Mononoke (1997)
Watch on: NetFlix, Amazon Prime
Princess Mononoke, directed by the legendary Hayao Miyazaki and produced by Studio Ghibli, stands out as one of the defining films of the 90s anime era.
While the term “retro” is often associated with a sense of nostalgia or styles of ancient times, “Princess Mononoke” offers a retro feel rooted in its 90s production techniques and narrative despite its timeless themes and universal appeal.
Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995–1996)
Neon Genesis Evangelion, often just called “Evangelion” or “Eva,” is an anime series that debuted in the mid-90s and quickly became a cultural phenomenon.
Directed by Hideaki Anno and produced by the animation studio Gainax, “Evangelion” is a complex blend of mecha action, deep psychological introspection, religious symbolism, and intricate character development.
- Setting: Post-apocalyptic Tokyo.
- Cause: Global catastrophe termed “Second Impact.”
- New Threat: Mysterious beings labeled “Angels.”
- Response: Organization NERV creates humanoid mechs, “Evangelions.”
- Pilots: Chosen teenagers.
- Central Character: Shinji Ikari, a hesitant Evangelion pilot.
- Key Relationships: Shinji’s estranged father, Gendo (head of NERV), and fellow pilots Rei Ayanami and Asuka Langley Soryu drive the series’ character dynamics.
One Piece
The late 90s saw the debut of an anime and manga series that would become one of the world’s most beloved and commercially successful franchises: “One Piece.” Created by Eiichiro Oda, “One Piece” started its journey in Shueisha’s “Weekly Shōnen Jump” magazine in 1997, and the anime followed soon after in 1999.
Distinct 90s Style: “One Piece,” in its initial years, had that unmistakable 90s anime aesthetic — from its character designs to its animation style. The color palettes, the way action scenes were choreographed, and even the humor had a distinct 90s flair.
Ghost in the Shell (1995)
Watch on: Funimation, Prime Video, Just Watch
Ghost in the Shell actively influenced our cultural landscape, inspiring numerous creators. Lana and Lilly Wachowski’s “Matrix” drew significant inspiration from it.
The iconic green number lines in The Matrix, the existential musings of Agent Smith resembling the Puppet Master, and the overarching theme of our minds immersing in a data-driven world, challenging our perception of “reality” all pay homage to the depth and innovation of “Ghost in the Shell.”
Ghost in the Shell is more in line with a cyberpunk aesthetic. It is characterized by its futuristic setting, advanced technology juxtaposed with societal decay, and philosophical musings on identity, consciousness, and the nature of humanity in a technologically advanced world.
Serial Experiments Lain
Watch on: Funimation, Crunchyroll
Serial Experiments Lain is not just another title in the vast library of 90s anime; it stands as a testament to the depth and intricacy this era of animation could produce. At its core, the series grapples with profound themes of identity, reality, and the burgeoning era of the Internet, but its attention to detail truly makes it shine.
- 90s anime, yet advanced in understanding the upcoming digital age.
- Introduced “the Wired”, a virtual space echoing today’s Internet.
- Both prophetic and rich in detail.
- Explored potential pitfalls of an increasingly connected society.
- A theme even more pertinent today.
- Every frame in Serial Experiments Lain is detailed and deliberate.
- Uses a muted color scheme.
- Features grainy, textured backgrounds, adding to the series’ unsettling ambiance.
Trigun (1998)
Watch on: Crunchyroll
I stumbled upon this show during Cartoon Network’s late-night block on Adult Swim. The blend of Old Western landscapes with futuristic elements intrigued me. While the characters might seem straightforward initially, they resonated deeply with me.
- One of the best animes from the 90s.
- Highlights underlying messages of peace and life’s essence.
- Encourages viewers to look past periodic violence or standard anime clichés.
- Empowers individuals to forge their own path and develop personal values.
- Features well-crafted characters.
- Infused with comedic elements throughout.
Berserk (1997–1998)
Watch on: Funimation, Crunchyroll,
Berserk’s animation tapped into the characteristic 90s anime aesthetic — a style that, in contrast to today’s polished, digital-heavy animations, leaned towards raw, hand-drawn visuals. The grit and texture in “Berserk” align perfectly with its brutal and unfiltered narrative, making it a standout in the decade’s anime lineup.
- Aesthetic choices in “Berserk”:
- Not just for visual appeal.
- Reflect its mature and often brutal themes.
- Battles showcase intense fervor.
- Visuals capture psychological depth of protagonist, Guts.
- Harmony between visuals and storyline elevates it beyond mere animation; it’s an emotional journey.
- Iconic “Berserk” scenes:
- Deeply embedded in anime enthusiasts’ memories.
- Aesthetic choices play a pivotal role.
- Key visuals:
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- The Brand of Sacrifice.
- The chilling Eclipse event.
- Guts with his massive Dragonslayer sword.
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Dragon Ball Z
Watch on: Funimation, Crunchyroll, Hulu,
It’s hard to talk about 90s anime without Dragon Ball Z (DBZ) entering the conversation. This iconic series is synonymous with the era, bringing a blend of enthralling storytelling, intense battles, and memorable characters to the forefront.
But what truly set Dragon Ball Z apart and solidified its position as one of the greatest fighting animes from the 90s?
- Key reason: Dragon Ball Z’s distinct artistry.
- Utilized the “90s anime color palette” with:
- Bright hues.
- Stark contrasts.
- Raw, hand-drawn aesthetic often absent in modern digital animations.
- The color scheme:
- Not just for style.
- Evoked varied emotions.
- Crafted atmospheres from intense battles to calm daily scenes.
- Examples:
- Fiery oranges during Goku’s transformations.
- Deep blues representing the skies.
- Earthy landscape tones.
- All crucial for showcasing the series’ emotional layers.
Cowboy Bebop (1998–1999)
Watch on: NetFlix, Crunchyroll
Cowboy Bebop is often hailed as one of the best action animes from the 90s and one of the most groundbreaking series in anime history.
Blending the charm of space westerns with the pacing and fluidity of noir films, the series seamlessly integrates action, drama, and music in a way few animes have ever achieved.
Setting: 2071 in the Cowboy Bebop universe.
- Fusion of advanced technology and retro aesthetics.
- Unique backdrop for:
- Intense chases.
- Space dogfights.
- Ground combat.
Distinct features:
- Recognizable style.
- Innovative narrative structure.
- Memorable character archetypes.
- Defines the potential of action anime
Top 10 90s Slice of life Anime
- “Marmalade Boy” (1994-1995) – A dramatic tale revolving around blended families and young love.
- “Kare Kano” (His and Her Circumstances) (1998-1999)
- “Yokohama Kaidashi Kikō” (1998, 2002 for its OVA sequels)
- “Master Keaton” (1998-1999)
- “Boys Over Flowers (Hana Yori Dango)” (1996-1997)
- “Here is Greenwood (Koko wa Greenwood)” (1991-1993)
- “Aka-chan to Boku” (Baby and Me) (1996-1997)
- “Kodomo no Omocha (Kodocha)” (1996-1998)
- “Princess Nine” (1998) – A sports-themed slice of life anime that revolves around an all-girls baseball team.
- “Nana” (though it primarily ran in the 2000s, its manga started in the late ’90s) (2006-2007 for the anime) – A tale of two girls named Nana who meet coincidentally, forming a deep bond while pursuing their dreams in Tokyo.
Top 10 90s Anime Romance
- “Yu Yu Hakusho” (1992-1995) – Follows a teenage delinquent, Yusuke Urameshi, who is given a second chance at life as a Spirit Detective to combat supernatural threats.
- “Berserk” (1997-1998) – A dark fantasy epic revolving around the mercenary Guts and his struggles against both human and supernatural foes.
- “Cardcaptor Sakura” (1998-2000)
- “Sailor Moon” (1992-1997) – Follows Usagi Tsukino and her friends as they transform into the Sailor Scouts to fend off supernatural enemies.
- “Rurouni Kenshin: Trust & Betrayal (Samurai X: Trust & Betrayal)” (1999) – Though primarily a samurai tale, it has supernatural elements intertwined with the story of the wandering swordsman.
- “Slayers” (1995-1997)
- “Neon Genesis Evangelion” (1995-1996)
- “Vampire Princess Miyu” (1997-1998)
- “Hell Teacher Nube (Jigoku Sensei Nube)” (1996-1997)
- “3×3 Eyes (Sazan Eyes)” (1991-1992, 1995-1996) – Follows the journey of Pai, the last of a supernatural race called the Sanjiyan, and her protector, Yakumo, as they seek her humanity.