The Ultimate Guide to 90's Anime Mascots That Will Blow Your Mind!

It is not uncommon for a popular franchise to have a specific character or creature that becomes a symbol for the series, a common occurrence in long-running anime. These mascots are plentiful and can be found throughout the series, as well as in various merchandise. The 90s saw the emergence of several iconic mascots within the anime genre.

Although recognizable anime mascots share certain traits, their designs can vary greatly. They can range from stylized and realistic depictions of animals to fantastical or magical creatures with irresistible charm. The best anime mascots of the 90s successfully combined endearing qualities with lovable designs, capturing the adoration of countless fans.

10 Keroberos – Cardcaptor Sakura

Keroberos, the Beast of the Seal and guardian of The Clow, is a winged lion-like creature from the popular magical girl anime Cardcaptor Sakura. His main duty is to ensure the safe return of all the scattered Clow Cards. However, after sleeping for many years, he quickly adapts to his new life at Sakura Kinomoto's home.

Despite his small size, Keroberos possesses a strong personality and serves as Sakura's sassy companion. While he has a larger and more intimidating form, he often disguises himself as one of Sakura's cute stuffed animals. Alongside Sakura, Kero is one of the most iconic characters from this beloved series.

9 Kuroneko – Trigun

Kuroneko, a small black cat with strikingly large green eyes, has become a beloved symbol of the Trigun series. Interestingly, despite its limited influence on the storyline, Kuroneko makes an appearance in every episode of the anime (usually during lighter moments) as well as in the manga.

Although Kuroneko's design is relatively uncomplicated, this petite feline has garnered an iconic status within the fan community. Its popularity is so immense that Kuroneko has been featured on various merchandise, allowing fans to own a piece of this delightful pet.

8 Pu – Yu Yu Hakusho

Pu is a birdlike creature that resembles a blue color in Yu Yu Hakusho and is known as Yusuke's Spirit Beast. These Spirit Beasts are believed to reflect the personality of the person they are created from, and the small tuft of hair on Pu's head is a subtle nod to his resemblance to Yusuke.

While Pu does possess certain abilities, such as the ability to fly in both forms, he mostly relies on being carried around and cared for by Yusuke's friend, Keiko Yukimura, throughout the series. As the series progresses, Pu undergoes a significant transformation, taking on a blue phoenix-like appearance. This transformation symbolizes the kind of rebirth that Yusuke experiences in his fight against Sensui.

7 Luna – Sailor Moon

Luna, a charming black cat who possesses the ability to speak, serves as a knowledgeable guide to the Sailor Scouts in the widely recognized magical girl anime, Sailor Moon. Initially, Luna approaches Usagi to explain her role and provides the magical compact that initiates the first in a series of familiar transformation sequences.

In her unique manner, Luna fulfills the role of a guardian, aiding Usagi and her companions in navigating the unfamiliar world and gaining a deeper understanding of their own abilities. Alongside Usagi Tsukino, Luna holds great significance in the series, earning recognition from both longtime fans and newcomers as one of its iconic characters.

6 Chopper – One Piece

Tony Tony Chopper, a humanoid reindeer from the long-standing series One Piece, is frequently mistaken for a tanuki. Serving as the doctor of the Straw Hat crew, Chopper surprises with his ability to transform in various ways. After consuming the Human Human Fruit as a reindeer, Chopper's appearance has changed, allowing him to stand on two feet in his usual form.

Chopper's different forms are a result of the Devil Fruit he consumed, as well as some of his own creations. Despite often displaying childlike behaviors, Chopper is a loyal and dependable ally, comparable in age to the rest of the crew. His adorable design and charming personality have garnered him significant admiration, making him a beloved anime mascot even today.

5 Pikachu – Pokémon

Regardless of whether someone is a dedicated Pokémon fan or not, Pikachu is a widely recognizable character. As the electric mouse Pokémon in the Pokémon franchise, Pikachu serves as the iconic companion to the main character Ash Ketchum. Initially, Pikachu displays stubbornness and a dislike towards Ash in the anime, but this changes quickly when Ash selflessly helps Pikachu during times of illness.

Throughout numerous seasons and a multitude of adventures, Pikachu remains by Ash's side as a steadfast friend, defying all odds. In a world filled with adorable creatures, Pikachu continues to hold its status as an iconic mascot of 90s anime, transcending generations.

4 Agumon – Digimon

Digimon has multiple seasons, each featuring different main characters and their unique Digital Monster partners. One of the most iconic characters from the original series is Agumon, a bipedal dinosaur-like creature who can breathe fire and evolve into more powerful forms resembling T. rex.

Agumon is partnered with Taichi Kamiya, both inside and outside of the Digital World. Together, they embark on countless adventures and overcome numerous challenges. Agumon's popularity reflects the immense success of the Digimon series, which includes various games, shows, manga, and more.

3 Ein – Cowboy Bebop

2 Kodama – Princess Mononoke

Ein, a genetically modified Welsh Corgi known as a "Data Dog," originated from the beloved 90s space western Cowboy Bebop. Esteemed for his enhanced intellect achieved through scientific experimentation, Ein effortlessly assimilates into the squad and frequently accompanies Ed throughout the series. His name is conjectured to be a plausible abbreviation of Albert Einstein, undoubtedly owing to his remarkable intelligence.

In the film Princess Mononoke, there are charming little creatures known as Kodama. They are often called children of the forest and are considered as tree spirits by the characters in the movie. These delightful beings reside in the forest of the Forest Spirit and are believed to be a representation of the forest's well-being. They can be found throughout the landscape in various shapes and forms, symbolizing the harmony of nature.

1 Yakul – Princess Mononoke

The creatures possess an endearing quality, particularly when they frolic gleefully through the enchanting woodland in certain scenes, appearing to engage in a subtle form of communication through their gentle head rattles. Naturally, their distinctive design is frequently featured on merchandise that pays tribute to the film, serving as one of the numerous emblematic symbols associated with Studio Ghibli and the comprehensive repertoire of Miyazaki's creations.

Yakul, the crimson deer-like creature, serves as Ashitaka's faithful companion throughout the entirety of Princess Mononoke. Right from the start, Yakul exhibits a strong affection for Ashitaka and proves to be essential in the success of his adventurous quest. Much like the kodama, Yakul's endearing appearance, luxurious fur, and unwavering loyalty have made him a beloved character, inspiring an array of merchandise that pays tribute to his significance in the film. Recognized as an indelible part of Studio Ghibli and Miyazaki films, Yakul continues to win hearts with his charm and presence.

These anime mascots play a vital role in their respective anime, allowing fans to connect with the franchise and share the excitement with others. They have the power to attract new fans and add delightful moments to the storyline.

Both creators and fans understand the allure of adorable creatures, and these mascots from the 90s continue to keep a series alive long after its initial release. Above all, they remain cherished in the hearts of fans for many years to come.