Today’s anime production landscape stands starkly different from what it was in the 1990s, having undergone substantial transformations both in terms of technology and methodology. Younger fans might find earlier works such as Dragon Ball to appear overly rigid and monotonous.
Let’s explore some beloved ’90s anime that have stood the test of time among anime enthusiasts on MyAnimeList, and surprisingly, many of these classics have earned spots in the top 100 anime list, despite the fact that the majority of the entries are from post-2010 productions. So, let’s take a closer look at some of those timeless ’90s anime favorites.
Berserk
Arguably the Best Berserk Anime
| Title | Berserk |
| Year(s) | 1997–1998 |
In the list of highly-rated anime on MyAnimeList, Berserk didn’t manage to crack the top 100, however it remains one of the six highest-ranked anime from the 1990s. This serves as a good illustration that most of the top-rated shows are more modern, likely due to the increased popularity of anime in the last ten years, which has led more people to engage with these newer series.
As an enthusiast looking back, the initial Berserk animation stands out as a timeless masterpiece, given the technological limitations of its era. Even now, ardent fans yearn for a new series that maintains the same level of quality, leveraging modern techniques to potentially surpass its predecessor’s achievements. Frankly, I believe that Berserk should hold a slightly higher position on MyAnimeList due to its undeniable merit.
Princess Mononoke
A Masterpiece by Hayao Miyazaki
| Title | Princess Monoke |
| Year(s) | 1997 |
Studio Ghibli was established with Hayao Miyazaki’s conviction that anime had the potential to exceed the quality of productions primarily focused on TV shows. Even before anime gained widespread popularity, Ghibli’s films were well-received among cinephiles in niche circles. The studio is frequently likened to Disney due to its high production standards, an interesting fact considering that Disney distributed some Ghibli movies in the US, including the initial screening of “Spirited Away” in North American cinemas, which earned Miyazaki his first Oscar victory.
As an ardent admirer, I’d say this Ghibli masterpiece, much like many others in their esteemed collection, has managed to captivate both die-hard anime enthusiasts and those who aren’t typically drawn to the genre – even seasoned viewers who might find themselves far from the average anime demographic. This film, deeply steeped in Japanese culture and brimming with nuances that international audiences may not immediately grasp, has a way of striking a chord with people from all walks of life. Moreover, its narrative delves into issues that remain as relevant today as ever before.
Great Teacher Onizuka
A Great Story About Teaching and the Educational System
| Title | Great Teacher Onizuka |
| Year(s) | 1999–2000 |
In a seemingly unexpected twist, despite being published in a shonen magazine, Great Teacher Onizuka deviates from the typical shonen series formula. Rather than centering around action and combat, it delves into the life of a reformed gang member who chooses an unconventional path to become a teacher, initially driven by questionable motives. However, as the story unfolds, Onizuka begins to develop a sense of morality and finds a genuine enjoyment for teaching, albeit with his signature mischievous streak, particularly towards certain students’ mothers. Yet, his initial intentions may be considered less than honorable, but he wholeheartedly embraces this new role with the ambition to stand out as one of the top teachers around.
Apart from being an engaging tale, this manga delves into numerous aspects of Japan’s educational system, resonating deeply with many of its readers. Regrettably, the animated version doesn’t encompass the entirety of the manga; in fact, the anime ended before the manga was fully serialized. Maybe it’s time for a fresh adaptation of the remaining manga content or even a complete reboot of the initial series.
Samurai X: Trust and Betrayal
A Fan-Favorite Samurai Series
| Title | Samurai X: Trust and Betrayal |
| Year(s) | 1999 |
Samurai X, for many anime enthusiasts, served as an introduction to Japanese history. Though the series is entirely fictional, it boasts a strong historical backdrop that resonates well with viewers. Moreover, the allure of samurais often captivates non-Japanese audiences, which explains why Samurai X enjoys a high reputation among users of MyAnimeList.
Cowboy Bebop
One of the Best Anime by Shinichiro Watanabe
| Title | Cowboy Bebop |
| Year(s) | 1997 |
Many avid viewers believe that Shinichiro Watanabe’s masterpiece, Cowboy Bebop, stands out among his impressive collection of series, despite fierce competition as each of his creations are exceptional and interconnected in some way. For many fans, it was their initial foray into anime, leaving an indelible mark on them. Though the Netflix live-action adaptation did not achieve the same level of popularity, the anticipation surrounding its release underscores the global adoration for this beloved anime series.
Combining jazz elements with neo-noir and space western storylines under Watanabe’s skilled direction makes for an intriguing blend. It’s worth noting that many top-ranked ’90s anime differ significantly from today’s popular shonen series, which typically garner high ratings. In the ’90s, shonen series may have felt formulaic or predictable, making it easier for unique approaches to gain popularity. Alternatively, this shift might simply reflect changes in the industry and its audience. Regardless of the reason, this series is undeniably one of the best anime not just from the ’90s, but overall.
Legend of the Galactic Heroes
The Best-Ranked 1990s Anime on MyAnimeList
| Title | Legend of the Galactic Heroes |
| Year(s) | 1988–1997 |
The Legend of the Galactic Heroes actually started airing in 1988, making it a late ’80s anime, but the majority of its adaptations were broadcast during the 1990s. Despite being an older and somewhat obscure series, it’s quite remarkable that it climbed into the top 10 on MyAnimeList, showcasing its enduring appeal.
Known as “Ginga Eiyuu Densetsu,” it’s one of the most extensive anime space opera franchises in existence, with ongoing production of new content even today. The series takes place in a future where humanity has ventured into outer space and established two major interstellar powers: the Galactic Empire and the Free Planets Alliance. They have been engaged in conflict for an extended period, and the initial anime follows this war and the rise of new leaders on both sides.
Although not all the series may be streamed officially on any platform, several of them are accessible on streaming services such as Crunchyroll, Netflix, Hulu, and HIDIVE.
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2025-08-22 15:35