Top 7 Best 90s Animes of All Time -

The 1990s were a golden era for anime, a decade that truly cemented its global appeal and introduced a generation to groundbreaking animation, complex storytelling, and unforgettable characters. From epic adventures to gritty psychological thrillers, the best 90s animes of all time left an indelible mark on pop culture, influencing countless creators and captivating audiences worldwide.

If you’re looking to dive into the classics or revisit some beloved series, this list highlights the best 90s animes to watch, showcasing why they remain incredibly popular and influential even today. These are the shows that defined a decade and continue to be celebrated by fans new and old.

1. Neon Genesis Evangelion (1995-1996)

No discussion of the best 90s animes of all time is complete without Neon Genesis Evangelion. This groundbreaking mecha anime from Gainax redefined the genre, blending intricate giant robot battles with deep psychological exploration and philosophical themes. Set in a post-apocalyptic world where humanity battles monstrous beings known as Angels using towering bio-mechanical mechas called Evangelions, the series delves into the minds of its teenage pilots, particularly the troubled Shinji Ikari.

What sets Evangelion apart is its unflinching look at trauma, depression, and existentialism. It subverted traditional mecha tropes, offering a darker, more introspective narrative that challenged viewers to think. Its surreal imagery, iconic character designs, and a finale that sparked endless debate solidified its place as one of the most influential and popular animes in the 90s. If you want a series that will stay with you long after the credits roll, Evangelion is a must-watch.

2. Cowboy Bebop (1998-1999)

Often hailed as a masterpiece, Cowboy Bebop is a stylish, genre-bending space Western that epitomizes cool. Following the adventures of a ragtag group of bounty hunters aboard their spaceship, the Bebop, the series masterfully weaves together elements of sci-fi, film noir, jazz, and martial arts. Spike Spiegel, the laid-back yet deadly protagonist, leads a cast of compelling characters, each with their own troubled pasts and unique motivations.

Cowboy Bebop is renowned for its phenomenal jazz-infused soundtrack by Yoko Kanno, its stunning animation, and its episodic storytelling that allows for deep character development. Each episode feels like a self-contained film, exploring themes of loneliness, existential ennui, and finding your place in the universe. It’s a series that appeals to both seasoned anime fans and newcomers, making it one of the best 90s animes to watch for its timeless appeal and cinematic quality.

3. Dragon Ball Z (1989-1996)

While Dragon Ball Z technically began in the late 80s, its reign as a global phenomenon truly blossomed throughout the 1990s. This action-packed shonen series, a continuation of Dragon Ball, follows Goku and his allies as they defend Earth from increasingly powerful threats, ranging from alien conquerors to androids and magical beings. DBZ defined the shonen genre for a generation, establishing tropes like power levels, lengthy battles, and dramatic transformations that are still mimicked today.

Dragon Ball Z’s impact is undeniable. Its explosive fight scenes, memorable characters, and escalating stakes captivated audiences of all ages, especially in the West, where it became a gateway anime for millions. The series’ themes of perseverance, friendship, and overcoming impossible odds resonated deeply. For sheer cultural impact and pure, unadulterated action, Dragon Ball Z remains one of the most popular animes in the 90s and an undeniable entry among the best 90s animes of all time.

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4. Sailor Moon (1992-1997)

Sailor Moon isn’t just one of the best 90s animes of all time; it’s a global icon that revolutionized the magical girl genre. The series follows Usagi Tsukino, a clumsy but kindhearted teenager who discovers she is Sailor Moon, a magical warrior destined to fight evil and protect the universe. Joined by other Sailor Guardians, she battles dark forces while navigating the ups and downs of teenage life.

Sailor Moon captivated audiences with its strong female protagonists, themes of friendship, courage, and self-discovery, and its vibrant, colorful animation. It brought magical girls into the mainstream, inspiring countless imitators and empowering a generation of viewers. Its enduring popularity is a testament to its charm and groundbreaking influence on both anime and pop culture, making it an essential entry if you’re looking for the best 90s animes to watch.

5. Yu Yu Hakusho (1992-1994)

From the creator of Hunter x Hunter, Yoshihiro Togashi, comes Yu Yu Hakusho, a supernatural martial arts series that became a cornerstone of the shonen genre in the 90s. The story begins when delinquent Yusuke Urameshi dies saving a child and is given a second chance at life as a Spirit Detective. His new role thrusts him into a world of demons, spirits, and intense battles, alongside allies like the stoic Hiei and the honorable Kurama.

Yu Yu Hakusho is celebrated for its well-choreographed fight sequences, diverse cast of memorable characters, and a surprising depth of storytelling that goes beyond typical battle anime. It balances thrilling action with humor and genuine emotional moments, exploring themes of redemption and personal growth. Its influence on later shonen series is clear, solidifying its place among the popular animes in the 90s and a top pick for the best 90s animes of all time.

6. Berserk (1997-1998)

For those who prefer their anime dark and gritty, the 1997 adaptation of Berserk is an undisputed masterpiece. This fantasy epic plunges into a brutal, unforgiving world where the mercenary Guts, a lone swordsman burdened by a cursed past, seeks revenge against his former friend and betrayer, Griffith. The anime covers the “Golden Age” arc of the manga, detailing Guts’s time with the Band of the Hawk and the tragic events that lead to his grim destiny.

Berserk is renowned for its mature themes, visceral violence, and uncompromising depiction of human depravity. Despite its age, the animation effectively conveys the brutal reality of its world and the sheer scale of its battles. While the original anime doesn’t cover the entire manga, it remains a powerful and emotionally resonant adaptation that cemented its status as one of the best 90s animes of all time for mature audiences. It’s a dark fantasy classic among the best 90s animes to watch.

7. Rurouni Kenshin (1996-1998)

Rurouni Kenshin, also known as Samurai X, is a historical samurai anime that captivated audiences with its blend of thrilling action, compelling character drama, and a touch of romance. Set in the early Meiji Era of Japan, the series follows Himura Kenshin, a legendary former assassin known as “Battosai the Manslayer,” who has sworn off killing and now wanders the country wielding a reverse-blade sword. He seeks to atone for his past by protecting the innocent.

The anime excels in its portrayal of Kenshin’s internal struggle with his violent past and his dedication to his new vow. It features exciting sword fights that showcase unique techniques, combined with a strong supporting cast and engaging villains. Rurouni Kenshin beautifully blends historical context with shonen action and heartfelt moments, making it one of the most beloved and popular animes in the 90s and a standout entry among the best 90s animes of all time.

Why the 90s Still Matter for Anime?

The 1990s truly were a transformative decade for anime. The series released during this period pushed boundaries in animation quality, storytelling complexity, and thematic depth. They were instrumental in expanding anime’s reach beyond Japan, cultivating a global fanbase that continues to grow.

From the philosophical questions posed by Evangelion to the genre-blending coolness of Cowboy Bebop, the explosive action of Dragon Ball Z, and the empowering themes of Sailor Moon, these shows laid the groundwork for much of what we see in anime today. They proved that animation could tackle mature themes, explore deep psychological landscapes, and tell stories with profound emotional impact.

Revisiting or discovering these best 90s animes of all time isn’t just a trip down memory lane; it’s an opportunity to appreciate the rich history and enduring legacy of a golden age in animation. So, if you’re looking for the best 90s animes to watch, you can’t go wrong with any of these timeless classics.