8 Best Years For Anime You Shouldn’t Miss

Anime, a medium that has captivated audiences worldwide, has seen a surge in popularity over the decades. From its humble beginnings to its current status as a global phenomenon, anime has consistently produced groundbreaking series that have impacted popular culture. Throughout its history, certain years have stood out as particularly golden ages for anime, marked by the release of iconic shows that continue to be celebrated today.

Below is the top 8 best years for anime that you shouldn’t miss:

1988

In addition to the annual offerings of general serial anime that fans eagerly anticipate, there exists a remarkable selection of films within the anime genre. The year 1988 stands out as a significant period, marked by the release of several iconic classics, with Akira being particularly noteworthy; it continues to be frequently referenced in contemporary popular culture.

This year also saw the debut of the poignant World War II narrative, Grave of the Fireflies, alongside the more whimsical My Neighbor Totoro. Furthermore, it is important to acknowledge that 1988 produced exceptional series as well, including the acclaimed Legend of the Galactic Heroes and the cult classic Crying Freeman.

2015

Anime has reached a level of mainstream popularity that is unprecedented today, but the 2010s played a crucial role in this transformation, with 2015 standing out as a particularly significant year. For dedicated enthusiasts, 2015 introduced the remarkable series One Punch Man, which cleverly parodied the trope of excessively powerful heroes and quickly became a sensation.

Additionally, the isekai genre was enriched by the arrival of Overlord, which premiered that same year. Viewers were also treated to the thought-provoking Death Parade, the exhilarating culinary competition Food Wars! for those who enjoy romance, My Love Story also made its debut. 2015 was abundant with exceptional titles and remains one of the best years for anime.

2007

Studio Trigger has gained significant recognition for its exceptional mecha anime and extravagant battle sequences. It can be argued that their prominence in anime culture was solidified in 2007 with the launch of the critically acclaimed Gurren Lagann. This dynamic action series remains a fundamental viewing experience for both dedicated mecha enthusiasts and those new to the genre.

The extensive narrative of Naruto: Shippuden, comprising over 500 episodes, deserves mention. Furthermore, the notorious series Claymore concluded at an unsatisfactory juncture and has yet to make a return. Other noteworthy titles include the often-overlooked Darker Than Black, the classic yet perplexing Baccano, and the visually captivating Mononoke.

1998

Numerous exceptional anime series emerged in the 1990s; however, one of the best years for anime produced made its debut in 1998: Cowboy Bebop. This space western is renowned for featuring one of anime’s most compelling protagonists, Spike. Additionally, this year introduced another remarkable character, Vash, from Trigun.

It is also noteworthy that 1998 marked the initial adaptation of One Piece to the screen with the OVA titled One Piece: Defeat the Pirate Ganzack!. Although the iconic and enduring series itself would officially launch in 1999, its foundations were established the previous year.

2011

The years from 2011 to 2015 are often regarded as exceptional for anime, with 2011 marking the beginning of this remarkable period, highlighted by the release of one of the finest shonen series ever created — Hunter x Hunter. Although Yoshihiro Togashi’s work remains incomplete, this fact, while disappointing, somewhat enhances the allure of its extraordinary narrative.

Additionally, it is impossible to overlook that 2011 also brought us notable titles such as Steins;Gate, Anohana, Fate/Zero, Deadman Wonderland, Puella Magi Madoka Magica, and the often overlooked Sket Dance. Given such an impressive array of series, it is easy to understand why 2011 is cherished as one of the best years for anime.

2019

There is often a particular series that draws a significant number of anime enthusiasts. In the past, titles such as Naruto and Attack on Titan have successfully captivated audiences. However, 2019 stands out as an exceptional year for attracting new fans. This year marked the debut of Demon Slayer, which quickly became a phenomenal success. Its subsequent film, Mugen Train, achieved the remarkable distinction of being the best years for anime.

Additionally, it is important to remember that 2019 also saw the premiere of Vinland Saga, introducing audiences to the character Thorfinn for the first time. This year featured the remake of Dororo and the contentious first season of The Rising of the Shield Hero. Furthermore, there were several lesser-known yet noteworthy series, such as Carole & Tuesday and Blade of the Immortal.

2012

Referring to 2012 as the year of the inception of isekai would be inaccurate; it is more appropriate to describe it as a pivotal year for this subgenre, marked by the release of the influential series Sword Art Online. Although many viewers reflect on the anime with some degree of skepticism, it would be disingenuous to overlook its significant impact on the isekai genre.

In addition to this major title, several other noteworthy series emerged during the same year, including Psycho Pass, which remains memorable for its iconic antagonist. Furthermore, discerning fans may recall that this was also the year when Highschool DxD premiered, alongside the horror sensation Another, which gained considerable attention.

2006

In 2014, the landscape of anime catered to a diverse audience, but it was in 2006 that numerous anime enthusiasts discovered their passion for various genres. This year introduced fans to two protagonists who, while distinct, would both achieve iconic status: Light Yagami from Death Note and Lelouch from Code Geass. These characters played a pivotal role in popularizing the anti-hero archetype within the anime community.

The year 2006 was marked by exceptional titles across genres, ranging from the action-horror of Hellsing Ultimate to the heartfelt moments of Ouran High School Host Club. Gintama also emerged as a significant hit, renowned for its comedic brilliance and boasting a remarkable number of entries in the top 50 of MyAnimeList.

Also, notable series such as Ergo Proxy, Black Lagoon, Reborn!, Nana, and Fate/Stay Night, which was the inaugural installment of the Fate series, contributed to the rich tapestry of anime that year.