These 90s anime helped shape modern anime and showcase some of the most influential series from one of the medium’s most important eras. Their impact can still be seen in anime today, from storytelling and visual styles to the genres they helped popularize.
1A 90s classic that redefined mecha through psychological themes and became a major influence on anime.
2A 90s classic by Shinichiro Watanabe, known for its jazz soundtrack, stylish action, and cinematic storytelling. It helped popularize anime worldwide and influenced later sci-fi anime and animated series.
3One of the most important magical girl anime series in history, helping redefine the genre and leaving a lasting influence that continues to this day.
4Whilst released in 1989, Dragon Ball Z became a defining anime of the 1990s, shaping the battle shonen genre with its iconic fights, transformations, and power scaling.
5A film noted for its cyberpunk setting and mature themes that not only influenced anime, but also western science fiction films and media.
6One of the first anime many of us ever watched, Pokémon became a worldwide phenomenon that introduced millions to anime and remains loved by generations decades later.
7A series that was ahead of its time, exploring the internet, online identity, loneliness, and the blurred line between reality and the digital world.
8A fantasy film that follows the struggle between humans and the natural world through a complex and morally grey story. Its success helped prove anime could tell mature and cinematic stories.