Reviving Nostalgia: Unveiling the Ultimate List of Timeless '90s Anime Gems!

The availability of anime outside Japan in the 1990s led to a significant breakthrough for the genre in the West. From magical girls with superhero-like abilities to cowboys in space, along with hip-jazz soundtracks, the anime of this era established numerous themes, styles, and trends that continue to dominate the industry.

However, popularity and innovation alone in the past do not guarantee the same level of impact today. Some shows introduced groundbreaking concepts that have since become commonplace, while others struggle to compete in a more diverse and confident market. Nevertheless, there are a few series that defy the norm and remain relevant even after two decades. These 10 anime from the 1990s listed below have sustained their popularity and influence, or simply remain highly enjoyable to watch in 2023.

10 Yu Yu Hakusho (1992)

Yu Yu Hakusho follows the story of teenager Yuusuke Urameshi who, after sacrificing himself to save a child from a car accident, is presented with an opportunity for rebirth. In order to be granted this chance, he must assist in eradicating wicked spirits from the world. With unwavering determination, Yuusuke and his team embark on a mission to vanquish evil wherever it arises. The remarkable aspect that places Yu Yu Hakusho on this list is the timeless nature of its core ideas. Fundamentally, it is a tale of redemption. Previously a morally questionable individual, Yuusuke now has the chance to atone for his past misconduct, assist others, and emerge as a superior version of himself. While the underlying story may be age-old, the inclusion of his role as a spirit detective adds a creatively captivating dimension to the narrative. For those who develop an affection for the anime, the entirety of the original Yu Yu Hakusho manga is currently accessible for free reading.

9 Slam Dunk (1993)

Slam Dunk revolves around the lives of the Shohuko High School basketball team, both on and off the court, as they strive to overcome all obstacles. While not the initial sports anime, Slam Dunk holds significant influence as it was often the first introduction to the genre for many Western anime enthusiasts. It successfully encapsulates all the essential elements of sports anime, creating a distinct subgenre that combines an emotionally charged narrative with thrilling sports action, intra-team and inter-team rivalries, a sense of camaraderie, and the iconic "from zero to hero" theme. As a result, the story becomes the primary driving force for watching, rather than the actual sports. Slam Dunk paved the way for the success of contemporary sports anime, with each one owing a debt of gratitude to its groundbreaking influence. Nevertheless, Slam Dunk stands on its own as a unique and captivating tale.

8 Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995)

Neon Genesis Evangelion follows teenager Shinji Ikari who is persuaded by his father to pilot an Evangelion - super-advanced bio-mechs that are the best weapon humans have in their fight against the mysterious race of aliens known as Angels. The reason Neon Genesis Evangelion has stood the test of time is because it was truly ahead of its time as an anime. It explores a wide range of thought-provoking issues regarding humanity, technology, war, and family that were both futuristic and controversial when it first premiered. Today, these topics have become significant subjects of social discussion and public policy in real life. Some of the key issues addressed include the use of child soldiers, the immense stress and horrors of war, and the potentially dehumanizing impact of technology. This anime not only presents an engrossing narrative, but it also serves as an excellent introduction to the crucial issues faced by a modern information society that is still only just beginning to grasp the perspective of Neon Genesis Evangelion.

7 Mobile Suit Gundam Wing (1995)

No other franchise has had a greater impact on the popularity of mech anime than Mobile Suit Gundam. And when it comes to shaping the Western mech anime experience, no part of the franchise has been more influential than Mobile Suit Gundam Wing. Being the first series of the franchise to gain widespread availability in the US, Gundam Wing has become synonymous with Western perceptions of mech anime. This enduring relevance can be attributed to the fact that many subsequent mech anime creations reference and pay homage to this iconic series. For those curious about the genre, Gundam Wing continues to serve as an ideal entry point. Moreover, it offers a remarkable opportunity to engage with the core ideas, values, and traditions of the Mobile Suit Gundam universe.

6 Detective Conan (1996)

Thematically, Detective Conan, or Case Closed as it is known in the West, offers nothing new or groundbreaking. The story follows the traditional formula of a "whodunit," where the protagonist, amateur detective Jimmy Kudo, assists the often clueless local police in solving complex crimes. However, while Detective Conan may not bring innovation to its themes, it compensates with its exceptional execution. Kudo's motivation to aid the police extends beyond mere altruism; it is driven by his desire to uncover the identity of the person responsible for transforming him into a child. The integration of these storylines is intriguing in itself, but it is the individuals who embark on these adventures that truly captivate audiences. The greatest achievement of Detective Conan lies in its character development, which remains a consistent strength throughout the series.

5 Sailor Moon (1996)

Sailor Moon stands as an instant classic renowned worldwide. While not the originator of the Magical Girl anime subgenre, it revolutionized the existing model, giving rise to the "Magical Girl superhero." This archetype portrays a Magical Girl utilizing her powers to conquer the villains plaguing society. Furthermore, Sailor Moon was a pioneer in incorporating the super sentai team format into the Magical Girl style. Its core focus on female empowerment and the belief that girls deserve equal enjoyment to boys, especially after saving the world, sets it apart. Countless subsequent anime aspire to emulate what Sailor Moon effortlessly achieves. When considering all these aspects, it becomes evident that Sailor Moon is a must-watch series, captivating even those usually uninterested in Magical Girl narratives.

4 Berserk (1997)

Berserk is an exceptional work of art that every enthusiast of anime should have the privilege of experiencing. The enthralling development of its characters, specifically Guts, Casca, and Griffith, is utterly captivating, and the intricate web of connections that are established, shattered, and ultimately rebuilt amongst them is reminiscent of the timeless themes found in classic literature. While Berserk's intense and visceral fight scenes have withstood the test of time, it is the exploration of raw human emotion and profound insights into human nature that truly make it a masterpiece that will never lose its relevance.

3 Pokémon (1997)

Despite the exponential growth and diversification of the Pokémon franchise across multiple platforms, the original '90s anime has managed to retain its relevance. Its unparalleled ability to encapsulate the essence of Pokémon in its purest form contributes to its timeless charm. At its core, the anime presents a captivating tale of personal growth and exploration, reminiscent of the childhood fascination with collecting insects. While peppered with emotionally charged moments, the narrative predominantly revolves around a group of friends embarking on an epic, awe-inspiring journey—a narrative that remains just as captivating today as it did during the franchise's nascent stages.

2 Trigun (1998)

1 Cowboy Bebop (1998)

Trigun recounts the tale of Vash the Stampede - an outlaw resembling a cowboy, who is being pursued by the government for the staggering sum of $60 billion. Nevertheless, unlike the quarrelsome bandits of classic Western films, Vash is innately a pacifist, yearning to reunite with his estranged brother Knives, if only the relentless bounty hunters on his trail would let him be. Trigun has withstood the test of time due to its timeless narrative and themes. The allure of a well-crafted Western is universally cherished, and Trigun is precisely that - with a refreshing twist that expunges certain detrimental Western clichés in favor of innovative ideas that still align with the genre's basic struggle between virtuous goodness and malevolent corruption. By incorporating technological elements, the series solidifies its status as a bona fide 1990s anime classic.

The adventures of bounty hunters Spike, Jet Black, Faye, Ed, and Ein are documented in Cowboy Bebop as they traverse the galaxy in pursuit of fugitives, striving to bring them to justice. While the storyline of the show may not be groundbreaking, Cowboy Bebop becomes an everlasting masterpiece due to its exceptional execution. The concept of bounty hunting serves as a backdrop to showcase the unmatched brilliance of Cowboy Bebop's stylish sci-fi narrative. This brilliance encompasses a wide range of themes and influences, including the corrupt characters and distinctive lighting of film noir, the velvety jazz tunes reminiscent of a Bebop-era lounge, and the poignant inevitability found in Shakespearean romances. Cowboy Bebop fearlessly explores both its style and substance, setting itself apart from imitators who have failed to match its grandeur.

The 1990s marked a turning point for Western fans, who gained unprecedented access to anime and discovered its immense potential. However, access alone was not the sole catalyst for the West's embrace of anime. This list showcases the exceptional quality of numerous anime from the 1990s, which not only captured the hearts of audiences but also left an indelible mark on pop culture history.