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The Best Old School Anime From 1999 And Before
Young kids today don't know how good '80s anime and '90s anime really were. With the abundance of new anime that is available these days, sometimes it's nice to kick your feet back and check out some classic and nostalgic cartoons, so why not start with 80's anime and anime of the 90's? You've undeniably heard of some of these Japanese animated favorites — perhaps you even read the manga that may have preceded some of these entries. Here is our list of the best old school anime of all time, consisting of popular anime from 1999 and before.
What was anime like in the 1980s and 1990s? Although the animation was a lot grainier and less crisp, series like Cowboy Bebop and Yu Yu Hakusho evoke that retro anime aesthetic and style that everyone loves. Plus, the stories were just as good as today's animes, with a multitude of animation styles and genres including horror, sci-fi, fantasy, romance, action, those for adults only and others fit for any audience, and plenty more.
Cyberpunk anime like Ghost in the Shell and Neon Genesis Evangelion are regarded as some of the best anime of all time, proving that memorable characters and a great plot are always superior over fancy animation. While there are a ton of great picks from the 2000s and later, it's clear that anime from the 80's and 90's anime titles are tough to beat in terms of quality. What's the first one you should throw on? Luckily, there's really something for everyone here, and many of these options are easier to access now than ever — with your preference of dubbed or English subtitles — through streaming services.
Have you seen all of these early classics below? Which of these 1990's anime titles and '80s staples were your favorites? We want you to vote for the top series you love the most, but this list is also a great guide if you're looking to find some great vintage 80s and 90s anime shows to watch. A few of these are movies and not TV series, such as Akira and Grave of the Fireflies. If you're a fan of Dragon Ball Z, definitely check out Fist of the North Star. The series was very influential in modern day fighting anime. You should also check out classics like Astro Boy which is considered one of the oldest anime series in the industry.
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Yusuke Urameshi seemed like your average street punk, but a selfless act leads to his death and another shot at life as a Spirit Detective. Teaming up with allies Kuwabara, Kurama and Hiei, Yusuke takes on demons and supernatural foes in deadly tournaments, foiling sinister plots threatening humanity through a mix of action, humor and heart. From Spirit Gun shots to bonding during training, Yu Yu Hakusho remains a supernatural battle classic.
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Dragon Ball Z cranks up the action as Goku discovers his alien Saiyan origins and defends Earth alongside his friends against imposing villains. Fierce battles drive the epic narrative forward as heroes and villains alike pursue greater power, with the fate of the universe hanging in the balance. Whether it's Vegeta's pride, Gohan's hidden potential, or Goku's ever-rising strength, Dragon Ball Z's pulse-pounding fights and sense of adventure captivated a generation.
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In Japan's Meiji era, a swordsman wielding a blade that cannot kill must protect the innocent without violating his vow. Enter Himura Kenshin, once an assassin who now rights wrongs as a lone wanderer. With his quick wit, compassion, and reverse-blade sword, he defends the downtrodden from those who would prey upon them. However, Kenshin's past still haunts him. Can he overcome his inner darkness? Experience this poignant redemption story in the beloved classic Rurouni Kenshin.
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Energetic Gon Freecss aspires to follow in his father's footsteps as an elite Hunter, gaining access to restricted locales and missions. During his daunting quest, Gon befriends a doctor, assassin, and liar. This group encounters creatures both wondrous and grotesque while confronting the criminality of the Phantom Troupe and greed of Greed Island. Hunter x Hunter thrives on its endearing characters, riveting action, and engrossing world.
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When industrialization threatens nature, can there be reconciliation between man and the spirits of the forest? Witness humanity's corruption through Lady Eboshi, along with the retaliatory bloodlust of Princess Mononoke and wolf god Moro in this philosophical, stunningly animated tale. Ashitaka aims for harmony, but this conflict seems destined for tragedy. Princess Mononoke tackles themes of environmentalism and humanity’s relationship with nature through its morally complex characters in this anime masterpiece.
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Futuristic agent Motoko Kusanagi confronts the criminal element hacking minds and misusing cybernetic bodies, but what does it mean to have a soul in such an advanced technological world? Alongside Public Security Section 9, the Major’s investigations question identity, memory, and what constitutes human experience – perfect for introspective sci-fi fans. Ghost in the Shell’s gripping philosophical undertones paired with thrilling action rightfully made it an instant anime classic.
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Becoming a teacher is usually an honorable profession, unless you’re former biker gang member Eikichi Onizuka! Unorthodox, wild, and wholly unique, Onizuka uses shocking methods to connect with troubled students, protect them from harm, and inspire their potential. Sure he causes endless trouble for the school establishment, but his dedication makes him legendary. For an outrageously fun rollercoaster of crude comedy, moving drama, and old-school cool, enroll in Great Teacher Onizuka’s class!
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When two sisters encounter whimsical spirits in the forest near their new home including the large, cuddly Totoro, they find comfort and adventure as their mother recovers in the hospital. Miyazaki beautifully captures the innocence of childhood and the power of imagination in this heartwarming film that kids and adults alike will cherish. My Neighbor Totoro is a timeless animated tale brimming with supernatural wonder and charm.
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Jazz, style, wit, adventure, and tragedy blend perfectly in this genre-bending space western following a crew of lovable bounty hunters aboard the ship Bebop. Led by ex-gangster Spike Spiegel’s laconic cool and Jet Black’s no-nonsense leadership, the crew takes on wanted criminals for reward money while running from their storied pasts. Cowboy Bebop has it all: dazzling dogfights, thrilling shootouts, emphasis on character development, and Yoko Kanno's exceptional soundtrack. Simply one of anime's most complete and iconic masterpieces.
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Teenage mecha pilots crush opposition in Mobile Suit Gundam Wing, a pillar of the Gundam franchise. Five master Gundam pilots operate covertly on Earth, using their special weapons and skills to free the planet from the tyrannical United Earth Sphere Alliance. Dripping with drama, action and intrigue, Gundam Wing sets the template for fallen heroes, masked antagonists and thorny conflict, boosted by gorgeous mecha animation and designs.
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Pazu and Sheeta take to the clouds to uncover the mysteries of her levitation crystal and find the legendary floating island of Laputa in Castle in the Sky. Pursued by military agents and airborne pirates, the two children journey across the sky, through storms and secrets, learning of Sheeta’s ancestry along the way. Backed by Miyazaki’s trademark imagination and visual artistry, Castle in the Sky is a breathtaking steampunk adventure brimming with magic and wonder.
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Once a wandering mercenary swordsman, Guts finds purpose as a member of the valiant Band of the Hawk, led by the charismatic Griffith. But terrible betrayal and darkness at the hands of demonic forces pushes Guts into a maddening spiral of vengeance. Dripping with ghastly horror and stylish action, Berserk is a grim medieval tragedy of epic proportions. No anime fan should miss this groundbreaking, gruesome fantasy epic.
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Before Goku was an elite Super Saiyan defending the galaxy, he started as a small, monkey-tailed boy searching for seven magic Dragon Balls on Earth. Meeting friends like Bulma, Yamcha, Krillen and Master Roshi, Goku trains in martial arts and confronts the Red Ribbon Army in early arcs. As Goku grows, so do the stakes, making us fall for the iconic character. The original Dragon Ball series still captivates with its charm, humor and martial arts excitement!
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14Outlaw Star follows wisecracking outlaw Gene Starwind and his ragtag crew pursuing treasure among the stars on their advanced starship. Mixing space fantasy and East Asian themes, this stellar anime hooks viewers with its motley cast, thrilling adventures and spectacular galactic dogfights. If you're thirsty for a fun, stylish sci-fi adventure, you won't regret hitching a ride with the Outlaw Star.
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Teen pilots Shinji, Rei and Asuka step up to defend futuristic Tokyo-3 from alien Angels in this influential mecha anime layered with psychoanalysis. Their struggles in facing the Angels mirrors a deeper quest to understand their identities. Packed with religious symbolism and existential philosophy between its apocalyptic stakes and intense robot battles, Neon Genesis Evangelion redefined an entire genre and anime itself.
Growing up is never easy, even for a friendly witch like Kiki. Moving to a new town, she overcomes doubts by using her broomstick skills to operate a delivery service. By connecting with locals, Kiki finds her calling, displaying Miyazaki's trademark storytelling heart and imagination. Brimming with charm, humor, and relatable themes of self-discovery and independence, Kiki's Delivery Service beautifully captures the trials of adolescence through a wonderful magic lens.
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We all dream of being the very best like no one ever was, and Pokémon lets us live that fantasy through Ash and Pikachu’s adventures catching wild creatures and battling gym leaders across diverse regions. Team Rocket’s silly schemes, new Pokémon discoveries, and heartwarming friendships make us want to catch ‘em all! Even decades later, it’s still got the irresistible monster-battling action and charm that made Pokémon a global phenomenon.
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Ordinary crybaby Usagi transforms into the magical guardian Sailor Moon, leading comrades Sailor Mercury, Mars, Jupiter and Venus in defending Earth from monsters sent by the Dark Kingdom. Romance with Tuxedo Mask, talking cat advisors, and epic clashes fueled by the power of friendship propel Usagi's journey to find the Legendary Silver Crystal and Moon Princess. This quintessential magical girl anime cleverly blended exhilarating action, comedy, drama and romance into an addictive, glittery package.
19The Vision of Escaflowne blends fantasy and mecha genres when ordinary girl Hitomi teleports to the magical world of Gaea. Sensing its future through tarot cards, she joins a young warrior king against the Zaibach empire. Blending war drama, soaring aerial battles, and romance, Escaflowne captures the disorientation of entering an unfamiliar land. Each episode reveals another layer of Gaea’s intricate mythology and conflict through stunning animation.
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Wanted with a massive bounty yet adhering to complete pacifism, Vash the Stampede plays the fool but hides formidable gunslinger skills and painful secrets beneath his silly antics. Lighthearted at first, Trigun slowly reveals itself as a deeper tale of moral ethics and redemption through its future western setting and Vash's traumatic history. Funny, stylish, moving and packed with over-the-top action, Trigun is a cult sci-fi anime classic.
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Film noir and mecha anime fuse in the fascinating retro-futuristic setting of amnesiac Paradigm City, protected by Roger Smith and his giant robot Big O. Style and subtlety reign as Roger negotiates threats while piecing together the city’s past. Secrets, conspiracies, intriguing characters and giant robot fights make The Big O a riveting neo-noir thriller that mecha fans should not overlook.
Yu-Gi-Oh! revolutionized gaming anime by bringing the strategic card battles of Duel Monsters to life. Young Yugi teams up with the spirit of the Millennium Puzzle to take on diabolical foes threatening humanity through the ancient Egyptian Shadow Games. Later arcs raise the interdimensional stakes even higher. As long as you believe in the heart of the cards, Yu-Gi-Oh! provides endless entertainment for all ages.
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23What happens when a humble teenager discovers he’s connected to extraterrestrial Juraian royalty and meets a colorful crew of alien girls? Lots of hilarious romantic antics, misunderstandings, and adventures in space! Tenchi Muyo!‘s blend of sci-fi, harem comedy, and captivating characters like Ryoko and Ayeka sparked a beloved franchise that still entertains today.
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Teen detective Jimmy Kudo’s investigation into a shady crime syndicate leads to his transformation into a child, but even then he continues solving baffling cases under the alias Conan Edogawa. Unlocking clues and catching criminals never stops in this long-running mystery series. Case Closed offers diehard detective Conan fans intricate cases and crimes aplenty to satisfy their craving for clever deductions and logical prowess!
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With high flying adventure and a playful romance, Cardcaptor Sakura defined the magical girl genre for a new era. Sakura uses Windy, Shadow, and other Clow Cards' magical powers to aid her quirky friends and budding relationship with Syaoran. Blending action, comedy, and drama with gorgeous costumes and animation, Cardcaptor Sakura deserves its status as an essential magical girl anime.
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26Summer camp takes a wild turn when seven kids are transported to the Digital World, a land populated by good and evil Digimon. By teaming up with their digital monster partners like Agumon and Gabumon, the kids learn the true meaning of friendship, bravery and loyalty while trying to save both worlds from destruction. The original entry in the Digimon franchise sparked a pop culture craze by blending exciting digital fantasy and coming-of-age themes.
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27For decades, the iconic gentleman thief Lupin III has entertained fans with his outrageous heists, goofy personality, and ability to slip past his nemesis Inspector Zenigata. Teamed with marksman Jigen, swordsman Goemon, and femme fatale Fujiko, Lupin steals everything from cash to intelligence with slick style. Action, comedy, adventure and clever plots come together in Lupin III to create an irresistibly fun caper series.
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28Chaos and laughter ensue when martial artist Ranma Saotome turns into a girl when splashed with cold water in this classic romantic comedy. Fiancée problems, admirers after his female form, and getting into awkward situations lead to endless turmoil and entanglements as Ranma tries to return to normal. Despite the wacky premise, Ranma 1⁄2 succeeds on the strength of its characters, comedy, martial arts flair, and slightly sweet romantic undercurrent.
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Delinquent Hanamichi Sakuragi joins his school basketball team expecting to impress his crush, but discovers a passion for the sport. Though inexperienced, his natural physical abilities allow him to develop into a star player. Slam Dunk realistically captures the sweat and spirit of high school basketball through energetic matches and likable characters chasing championship dreams.
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Pop singer-turned-actress Mima Kirigoe becomes lost in her multiple identities, haunted by an obsessive stalker and her fragmented sense of self. As the gruesome murders and realities around her unfold, the lines between her public and private personas blur. Director Satoshi Kon's masterful psychological thriller animation shocked audiences and heralded his brilliant, genre-defying career.
31In a post-apocalyptic wasteland, formidable warrior Kenshiro masters the deadly Hokuto Shinken martial art, battling those who prey upon the weak and innocent. Strike a villain’s secret pressure points, and they violently explode! Brimming with gritty, hyper-masculine action and martial arts drama, Fist of the North Star is a quintessential shonen anime classic.
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Best friends Miaka and Yui get pulled into a Chinese historical fantasy novel where Miaka becomes the Priestess of Suzaku in the battle between warring kingdoms. Unfolding like an episodic adventure sprinkled with romance and humor, Fushigi Yugi brings Chinese mythology to life through endearing characters and melodrama between the magical action.
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Monster Rancher
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63Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water
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Ojamajo Doremi
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Tiger Mask
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Kishin Douji Zenki
74Romeo's Blue Skies
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Kaiketsu Zorro
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Kimba the White Lion
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Devilman: the Birth
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Ghost Sweeper Mikami
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Touch
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Jigoku Sensei Nube
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103Anna of Green Gables
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Chibi Maruko-chan
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Yawara! A Fashionable Judo Girl
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Bakusou Kyoudai Let's & Go
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Ai No Wakakusa Monogatari
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Hiatari Ryoukou
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Miyuki
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Space Pirate Mito
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Princess Nine
