6 Best Space Opera Anime of The 90s

Space opera is a type of science fiction that takes place in outer space, often in a different galaxy. It can involve stories about interactions with alien cultures, or epic conflicts between powerful groups and massive spaceships. In the 1990s, space opera anime was the third most popular sci-fi anime genre, following mecha and cyberpunk. The first space opera anime series was Space Battleship Yamato (also known as Star Blazers), which debuted in 1974.

Following a few years later, Leiji Matsumoto’s imaginative universe, known as the “Leijiverse,” gained popularity with the release of Space Pirate Captain Harlock and Galaxy Express 999 in 1978. The success of these shows paved the way for major franchises like Mobile Suit Gundam (1979) and Macross (1982). The space operas that came out in the 90s are still beloved today. If you’re new to the genre and want some top-notch anime recommendations from the 90s, I’ve listed them below.

6. Infinite Ryvius — 1999

If you enjoy teen anime, you’ll likely love Infinite Ryvius (originally titled Mugen no Ryvias). This 26-episode space opera aired from 1999 to 2000 and is often compared to William Golding’s novel Lord of the Flies, earning the nickname “Lord of the Flies in Space.” However, while Lord of the Flies takes place on a deserted island, Infinite Ryvius is set on a spaceship. Another key difference is that Lord of the Flies features only boys, while Infinite Ryvius includes both boys and girls. The story is set in the year 2225 and follows 486 teenagers who find themselves stranded on a technologically advanced spaceship without any adults to guide them.

The series features several important characters: Kouji Aiba, a trainee astronaut who avoids conflict; Yuki Aiba, Kouji’s gifted younger brother who is secretly hostile and frequently starts fights with him; and Aoi Housen, Kouji’s childhood friend who works hard to keep the group united. There’s also Ikumi Oze, a bookish character who tries to keep the peace among the survivors, and Neya, a quiet and enigmatic girl who is actually the ship’s operating system in human form. If you can handle intense, sometimes violent interactions between teenagers, you’ll likely enjoy this series.

5. Turn A Gundam — 1999

∀ Gundam (Turn A Gundam) is a 50-episode anime series and part of the larger Gundam franchise. It was created in 1999 to commemorate the 20th anniversary of Gundam. If you enjoy futuristic stories, this one is a good choice. It takes place far in the future, in the year 2345 of the Correct Century, where humanity has surprisingly reverted to technology similar to that of World War I. The story focuses on two groups of humans: those living on Earth and those living on the moon. While Earth has lost much of its technology, the moon, governed by Queen Dianna, possesses highly advanced technology.

As a huge mecha fan, I have to say this show is something special! It completely shook up the usual feel of a Gundam series, moving away from typical war drama. It started a little slow, but once it found its footing, it was just incredible all the way through. Honestly, it gave me serious Studio Ghibli vibes – that same sense of wonder and emotional depth. And the Moonlight Butterfly attack? Forget about it! Seeing technology just turn to sand was a visual highlight and a really unique concept.

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4. Mobile Suit Gundam Wing — 1995

Unlike some other Gundam series, Mobile Suit Gundam Wing stands on its own with a unique story and timeline. Set in the After Colony era, it follows five teenage pilots sent to Earth to fight a secret war against the oppressive United Earth Sphere Alliance. This organization controls Earth and the space colonies harshly, and when a colonial leader challenged their rule, they had him eliminated. This sparked a rebellion, leading to ‘Operation Meteor’ – a plan to smuggle powerful, Gundanium alloy mobile suits to Earth and overthrow the corrupt United Earth Sphere Alliance, liberating both Earth and its colonies.

This series is fantastic in every way. I especially appreciated its clever political storylines and how it treated its young characters with respect – something you don’t often see. Instead of relying on a single hero, the show featured a team of five engaging and well-developed teenage boys. Plus, the music throughout the series is amazing!

3. Crest of the Stars — 1999

This anime series, originally titled Seikai no Monshō and consisting of 13 episodes, is a space opera adapted from the science fiction novels of Hiroyuki Morioka. It takes place far in the future, after an alien empire called the Abh – a genetically engineered race resembling blue-haired elves with incredibly long lives – attacked humanity. Following the Abh Empire’s conquest of much of the galaxy, humans formed a four-way alliance to resist: the United Mankind, the Republic of Greater Alcont, the Federation of Hania, and the People’s Sovereign of Union Planets. The story centers on Jinto Linn, whose life changes dramatically when his father, the president of their planet, negotiates a deal with the Abh Empire – selling their planet in exchange for a position within the empire.

If you appreciate strong connections between characters, you’ll love this series. What really sets it apart is its unique world-building, including a fully developed language called Baronh, complete with its own alphabet, Ath. Plus, the music by Katsuhisa Hattori is fantastic!

2. The Irresponsible Captain Tylor — 1993

Get ready to fall in love with this incredible series! It’s hilarious, heartwarming, and totally rewatchable – you’ll find yourself hitting play again and again. Based on Hitoshi Yoshioka’s novel, The Most Irresponsible Man in Space, and known as Musekinin Kanchō Tairā, the story follows Justy Ueki Tylor, a young man who joins the United Planets Space Force for an easy paycheck and a desk job. However, things quickly change when war erupts on his ship, the Soyokaze. After accidentally disrupting a terrorist plot and freeing hostages, Tylor is unexpectedly promoted to Captain. Despite being lazy and self-serving, he consistently rises to the challenge and leads his crew to success.

The real strength of this series lies in the intriguing question of just how capable Taylor actually is. He consistently surprises his team with his ability to get out of tricky situations, all while remaining remarkably calm. Beyond the laughs, the show offers a heartfelt look at human relationships, particularly highlighted by Taylor’s consistent generosity.

1. Macross Plus — 1994

If you’re a fan of dramatic space operas, look no further than Macross Plus. This short but impactful anime series has everything: intense competition, a bit of playful rivalry, and even a love triangle! Released as a 4-episode OVA between 1994 and 1995, it’s set in the year 2040 on the planet Eden. The story follows Isamu Dyson and Guld Bowman, two former childhood friends who are now competing pilots. They constantly argue about which of their advanced variable fighters is better, all while vying for the attention of Myung Fang Lone, who manages the virtual AI pop star, Sharon Apple.

I really enjoyed Macross Plus because it works perfectly as its own story. You don’t need any background from the original Macross series to follow what’s happening. What struck me most was how different it felt from the 1982 show – Macross Plus feels much more mature, focusing on characters in their twenties who are flawed and behave like real adults.

2026-05-08 00:39